Lower Dolpo Trek

Lower Dolpo, until a few years back, was very much untouched and least accessed, not much seen by outsiders. The Dolpo region is located towards the northern side of Nepal and is one of the most sought-after, beautiful, and pristine lands on earth.

Lower Dolpo retains its centuries-old traditions and customs. The people of this region have managed to maintain their original lifestyles, and it seems as if time has stopped ticking for them. There are not enough signs of modernity, and one can feel the simplicity and the ingenuity of the population.

Also home to one of the oldest religious sects of Tibet, the Bon-Po, which was practiced before Buddhism. It is an indigenous religion of Tibet, believed to be founded by Tonpa Shenrab, and was introduced to the Himalayas of Nepal when people from Tibet migrated to Dolpo.

This region is greatly influenced by Tibetan culture; this religious sect is still very active. If one is to believe the legends, then Dolpo is said to be one of the “Hidden Valleys” created by Guru Rinpoche as a refuge for devout Buddhists who would want to escape during adverse times.

Journey in Lower Dolpo Trek passes through fascinating forests of pine, oak, rhododendron, and juniper through the untouched, isolated land pass. Our route also has a variety of exotic flowers, some of the main attractions on the trip.

The mountain trails in this region are amazing and awe-inspiring, and the bodies of water are pristine and pure. On this trail, we will cross the Numala Pass at an altitude of 5,360 meters and also visit Lake Phoksundo, considered to be the brightest jewel of the Dolpo region.

The trip grade is strenuous and rugged, but at the same time, it gives the trekker an experience to cherish. One is speechless with the abundance of natural beauty and the rich cultural experience Lower Dolpo Trek offers.

The trek starts at Beni and goes up to Phoksundo Lake via Do Tarap and ends at Juphal, where there is air connectivity. This is the same route that has been mentioned by Peter Matthiessen in his book “The Snow Leopard”. The trek is invariably described as a camping trek and is set up by the Himalayan Trekkers' crew members. 

Trek Highlights

• Walk through the ancient Trans-Himalayan Caravan route

• Hike through the world's deepest lake, Shey-Phoksundo Lake

• Least explored magical destinations

• Walk through charming forests of pine, oak, rhododendron, and juniper

• Explore the “Jewel of Dolpo” - Phoksundo Lake

Best Season for Lower Dolpo Trek

Get to experience one of the most pristine and untouched lands on earth. Our Lower Dolpo Trek takes you through the hidden valley of Nepal.

Dolpo is the land where the ancient Bon-Po tradition and Tibetan culture remain untouched. And unlike most other places in Nepal, the region is trekkable in three seasons. Which among the three is the best?

Peak Trekking Season Autumn

The best season for Himalayan trekking is Autumn, and not just the Lower Dolpo trek. During this season, trekkers find crystal clear mountain views. Also, the weather remains stable and at its most welcoming.

The other half is the cultural aspect of Nepal in the fall. The grand Dashain and Tihar festivals are celebrated during autumn. But that’s not all, it is also harvest season, adding a more festive feel to each town.

Nature Attraction in Spring

Spring is the season to explore nature in the lower Dolpo region. It offers a landscape coming alive. The route becomes filled with blooming wildflowers, exotic flora, and rhododendrons.

The walks become easy enough with supportive weather. The journey takes place in stable, mild weather. The journey is enchanting with the vibrant trails you walk.

Alternative treks in Monsoon

Unlike most trekking destinations in Nepal, Lower Dolpo is in the rain shadow area, meaning minimal rainfall. As such, even in the monsoon, this region stays dry. Making it so that trekkers can travel through the area.

Despite the dryness, the route remains lush and green. The one thing to know about this trip in the summer is the potential flight delays. The delays can happen during a flight in and out of the Lower Dolpo region, mostly due to the weather in lower altitudes.

Season to Avoid Lower Dolpo: Winter

Winter treks in Lower Dolpo are to be avoided. The temperatures can fall way below freezing during winter. But that’s not all, the trail to Numa La Pass is filled with snow, making it impassable.

Trekking in the lower altitudes of the region is viable, but still very risky. Even reaching the Phoksundo Lake becomes a challenge far greater than the reward. Thus, due to the extreme cold and trail closures, treks during the winter are not recommended.

Lower Dolpo Trek Difficulty

The Lower Dolpo Trek is graded as strenuous difficulty. It offers a rugged terrain to trek, designed for seasoned trekkers. What’s more, the trail offers true-blue Himalayan challenges, fit for those with years of experience.

The elevation during the Lower Dolpo trek becomes a formidable challenge. The high passes, Numa La and Baga La, are respectable climbs. Numa La Pass is 5,360 meters, and Baga La Pass is 5,170 meters.

The next aspects making it strenuous are long walking hours and the isolation. You travel through uneven, steep, and rocky trails for over six hours. Likewise, the trip takes you through remote wilderness with limited facilities. The Lower Dolpo trek is primarily a camping journey.

Trekkers taking on this journey must have top-notch physical and mental fitness. We recommend at least 8 weeks of cardio and strength training before the trek. While the Lower Dolpo trek is a demanding journey, it offers breathtaking rewards.

Permits for Lower Dolpo Trek

The Dolpo region is a restricted area, both Lower Dolpo and Upper Dolpo. As such, solo trekking is not permitted in this area. Furthermore, all permits must be processed through a registered agency like us, Himalayan Trekkers.

Permits:

• Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit

• Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit

Note: The package will include the prices of any permits required for this trek.

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