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Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek

Country

Nepal

Duration

18 Days

Difficulty

Easy to Moderate

Max Altitude

5,190 m / 17,028 ft

Style

Trekking | Cultural Immersion |Remote Himalayan Adventure

Best Season

Year Around

Why Choose Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek?

Last updated June 7, 2026

Step Into Nepal's Most Untouched Corner

The Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek is the kind of journey that most people talk about but very few actually take. Tucked into the far northwest of Nepal, the Dolpo region sits in a high-altitude rain shadow that gets less annual rainfall than some deserts. The land here is brown, wind-carved, and immense. Above the treeline, prayer flags mark passes that connect isolated valleys to one another. Down in the gorges, rivers run cold and clear over flat stones. This is a place where modernity genuinely has not arrived.

A 19-day window of walking and flying gets you into the core of what makes Dolpo so unusual. You start from Nepalgunj, which sits near the Indian border at less than 200 meters above sea level. Two days later, you are crossing stone bridges above glacial tributaries and watching porters carry loads on trails cut into cliff faces. The contrast is difficult to explain but easy to feel.

Beyond the scenery, this trek goes through one of the world's last places where Bon religion is still practiced in its original community context. Bon predates Buddhism and differs from it in specific rituals, temple layouts, and the direction of kora walks around sacred structures. In Dho Tarap village and the monasteries nearby, you can observe and quietly learn about this tradition from people who have carried it for generations.

What Sets This Trek Apart

Most Nepal treks take you along known corridors, busy in peak season, with teahouse comforts and cell signal at most stops. The Lower Dolpo Circuit is not that kind of trek. The trail crosses two serious high passes: Numa La at 5,190 meters and Baga La at 5,070 meters. Between those passes, you drop into wide valleys and camp in meadows used by yak herders. The route then finishes at Phoksundo Lake, a still, turquoise body of water held against steep limestone cliffs that gave this region a moment of international attention after the 1999 film "Caravan" was nominated for the Academy Awards.

The logistics are deliberately limited. There are no roads in the core trekking area. Some stretches have no teahouses at all. The team carries camping equipment to the high sections, and the sleeping arrangements get simple. That simplicity is the point. You hear your own footsteps. You notice the altitude. You start to understand the terrain on its own terms rather than from behind a glass window.

Highlights of the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek Package

Phoksundo Lake: Nepal's deepest lake, perched at 3,611 meters with water so clear it reads turquoise-blue against the surrounding brown cliffs and pine forest edges.
Numa La Pass (5,190 m): The highest crossing on this route, with sweeping views across Dhaulagiri, Churen Himal, Shey Shikhar, and the Kanjiroba range on a clear morning.
Baga La Pass (5,070 m): The second major pass, reached through a valley of scattered seasonal yak shelters, with sacred chortens at the top marking the descent toward Phoksundo.
Dho Tarap Village: A wide, flat-bottomed valley settlement at 4,080 meters, home to a culturally distinct Bon community and a cluster of monasteries including Ribo Bompa and Mekyem Gompa.
Shey Phoksundo National Park: Nepal's largest national park by area, with rare wildlife including snow leopards, blue sheep, grey wolves, Himalayan tahr, and the vibrantly plumed Himalayan Monal.
Ancient Monasteries: Pre-Buddhist Bon gompas alongside Tibetan-style Buddhist temples, decorated with thangkas, Maitreya statues, and collections of ceremonial weapons.
Rain Shadow Landscapes: Dry, ochre-colored plateaus that shift into pine-filled gorges below 3,000 meters, giving the trek a visual range not found on wetter Himalayan circuits.
Remote Culture: Villages like Ringmo and Tarakot where residents wear traditional garments, practice subsistence farming, and host pack animals rather than tourist infrastructure.

Detailed Journey Breakdown

Arriving in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj

The trek starts in Kathmandu, where you sort permits, meet the team, and check gear. A short flight drops you to Nepalgunj, Nepal's largest mid-western city, sitting at 154 meters. The warmth and flat horizon feel almost surreal after months of imagining high mountains. Another small aircraft carries you up to Juphal the following morning, landing on a sloped grass-and-gravel strip at 2,320 meters that many pilots consider one of Nepal's more demanding domestic approaches.

The Approach through the Bheri River Corridor

Early trek days follow the Thulo Bheri River through a mix of cultivated terraces, pine-covered slopes, and gorge sections where the trail narrows against cliff walls. Villages like Dunai, Tarakot, and Laini each have their own character. Dunai is the district headquarters, relatively functional, with small shops and a checkpoint. Tarakot sits at an old trade crossroads and carries a layered history. As you climb toward Nawarpani and Dho Tarap, the valley opens and the landscape gradually empties of agriculture.

Dho Tarap and Cultural Immersion

The wide valley of Dho Tarap is one of the more memorable campsites on this entire circuit. The village is organized around a central lane flanked by stone houses, dried-meat racks, and monastery walls. Children and dogs move through the lanes with equal confidence. An acclimatization day here gives you time to visit the gompas properly, watch community life, and give your body a needed rest before the high passes ahead.

Crossing the High Passes

The ascent to Numa La starts from a base camp at around 4,440 meters. The trail goes across loose scree, through snow-filled gullies in early season, and up a final rocky headwall to the pass cairn. From the top, the view extends across an enormous field of mountains with no visible road, no structure, nothing except ridgelines and sky. The descent takes you through a U-shaped valley to an overnight at Pelung Tang. The following day brings Baga La, which demands similar effort but ends with the lake beginning to appear through the valley floor below.

Phoksundo Lake and the Return

Ringmo village is the last settlement before Phoksundo Lake. From the village, a short uphill walk reaches the lake edge, where the water color genuinely stops you. The depth of the blue-green hue comes from the lake's 145-meter depth and the glacial minerals that filter in from above. A rest day here allows for a thorough exploration of the shoreline, the lake-edge monastery, and the waterfall fed by the outflow. The return to Juphal via Chhepka closes the circuit, retracing sections of the Bheri River valley before the flight back.

Returning to Kathmandu

The reverse flight from Juphal through Nepalgunj to Kathmandu is brief but striking. Looking down from the plane at the terrain you spent two weeks walking through is a good moment for reflection. Back in Kathmandu, the rest day exists for that purpose: going over the experience at your own pace before the international departure.

Trip Summary

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m)

The journey begins the moment you land in Kathmandu, though not with any walking. A representative will meet you at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer you to your hotel in the Thamel area, which sits close to most outfitters, permit offices, and good restaurants. The evening is free for rest, adjusting to the time zone, and a first taste of Nepali cooking. Most hotels in the area stock decent restaurants serving everything from dal bhat to continental options. An early dinner and a full night's sleep puts you in good shape for the preparation day that follows.

Daily Summary

Duration30 mins

Distance10 km

Accommodation3* Hotel

MealsB,L,D

Mountain SeenOn a clear day: Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal

Day 2

Kathmandu Permit Preparation & Fly to Nepalgunj (154 m)

Day two belongs to logistics. The team will escort you to the Department of Immigration for the Restricted Area Permit and to the Nepal Tourism Board office for the Shey Phoksundo National Park entry permit. This typically takes a few hours, leaving the afternoon free. Many trekkers use this time to visit the nearby stupas, particularly Boudhanath, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in Asia. In the evening, the head guide conducts a full briefing covering the itinerary, safety protocols, altitude sickness recognition, and equipment checks. This is the time to raise any concerns or ask questions about the days ahead.

A domestic flight takes you southwest to Nepalgunj, a border city sitting at only 154 meters above sea level. The heat and flat landscape stand in sharp contrast to the mountain environment you will enter soon. Nepalgunj has its own rhythm, shaped by its position near the Indian border, with a large Tharu and Muslim community contributing to its cultural texture. The afternoon is free for resting, last-minute shopping for snacks, or simply observing local market life. The guide reviews the next morning's early departure time. Sleep early because the Juphal flight usually takes off just after sunrise.

Daily Summary

Duration 1 hr flight

AccommodationTeahouse

MealsB,L,D

Mountain SeenMid-hills of Nepal

Day 3

Fly Nepalgunj to Juphal (2,320 m), Trek to Dunai (2,140 m)

The flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal is a proper mountain approach. The aircraft banks into a valley and drops onto a sloped strip cut into the hillside at 2,320 meters. It takes about 25 minutes and gives you a full visual introduction to the western Himalayan foothills. Porters and mules organize equipment at the airstrip, and the first day's walking begins after a quick breakfast at a local lodge. The trail descends along the Thulo Bheri River through small villages and stone-walled fields before arriving in Dunai, the administrative headquarters of Dolpa District. Dunai has a small guesthouse strip, a few shops, and the district checkpoint where permits are registered.

Daily Summary

Duration2-3 hrs walk

Distance3 km

AccommodationTeahouse

MealsB,L,D

Mountain SeenDhaulagiri Range (weather permitting)

Day 4

Dunai (2,140 m) to Tarakot (2,540 m)

Leaving Dunai, the trail follows the Bheri River through a mix of cultivated slopes and narrow gorge sections. Suspension bridges cross the river multiple times, and the path climbs and drops with the natural topography rather than any engineered switchbacks. Tarakot appears on a promontory above the river, a small fortified settlement that once served caravans trading between Tibet and the Terai. Stone houses with flat rooftops, drying grain, and woven baskets characterize the village. The people here are mostly Magar, with some Tibetan-influenced households, and the evening gives a good opportunity to sit in a teahouse and talk with locals over tea.

Daily Summary

Duration5-6 hrs

Distance11 km

AccommodationTeahouse

MealsB,L,D

Mountain SeenLocal Himalayan ridges

Day 5

Tarakot (2,540 m) to Laini (2,970 m)

From Tarakot, the trail crosses the Beri River and begins a long traversal above the valley floor through buckwheat and barley fields. The altitude gain is gradual, and the scenery shifts from cultivated to increasingly wild as you approach Laini. Churen Himal starts appearing on the northern horizon, a reminder that you are heading into a bigger mountain world. Laini is a small settlement with basic teahouse options and limited facilities. The temperature drops noticeably at night here, and extra layers become necessary. This is a good day to practice pacing, as the coming days will be longer and more demanding.

Daily Summary

Duration6-7 hrs

Distance13 km

AccommodationTeahouse

MealsB,L,D

Mountain SeenRocky canyon landscapes

Day 6

Laini (2,970 m) to Nawarpani (3,545 m)

Today crosses a ridge at roughly 3,545 meters, marked by prayer flags and a wide view back down the Bheri valley. The trail climbs steadily through dense forest of juniper and blue pine before opening onto the ridge. Nawarpani sits just below this high point, a cluster of stone shelters with a handful of teahouses that serve basic dal bhat and tea. The altitude here begins to make itself felt, particularly if you have been moving quickly. The guide will likely suggest a slow afternoon walk and early dinner. Above 3,000 meters, proper hydration becomes important, so drinking at least three liters of water through the day is advisable.

Daily Summary

Duration 6-7 hrs

Distance14 km

AccommodationTeahouse

MealsB,L,D

Mountain SeenHigh barren hills

Day 7

Nawarpani (3,545 m) to Dho Tarap (4,080 m)

This is the longest trekking day of the Lower Dolpo circuit, covering around 20 kilometers over a mix of river crossings, cliffside paths, and open plateau walking. The trail at one point narrows against a cliff wall, with a sheer drop on one side and the mountain rising on the other. A stone chorten on a ridge marks what was historically the border between Nepal and Tibet, a site called Serkam. The descent into Dho Tarap is one of the great visual moments of the entire trek: a wide, flat valley opening up around a dense cluster of stone buildings, monastery walls painted white and ochre, and prayer flags spanning every available height. Dho Tarap is the spiritual and cultural center of the Lower Dolpo region.

Daily Summary

Duration6-7 hrs

Distance15 km

AccommodationTeahouse

MealsB,L,D

Mountain SeenNorbung Kang and surrounding peaks

Day 8

Acclimatization Day at Dho Tarap (4,080 m)

Rest days are built into serious treks for a reason, and this one earns its place. Dho Tarap has more to explore than any single day allows, but the acclimatization day gives a solid sampling. The main monasteries include Ribo Bompa, famous for its large Maitreya Buddha statue set inside a three-story building, and Mekyem Gompa, which houses a collection of traditional Bon ritual instruments. The village women wear distinctive clothing with amber beads and silver clasps, and some still keep musk deer teeth as traditional jewelry. The Crystal Mountain School, serving children from the surrounding valleys, accepts visitors. Afternoon hours are often spent at the camp, writing, photographing, and preparing gear for the high passes ahead.

Daily Summary

Duration4-5 hrs exploration

AccommodationTeahouse

MealsB,L,D

Mountain SeenCrystal Mountain, surrounding ridges

Day 9

Dho Tarap (4,080 m) to Numa La Base Camp (4,440 m)

The approach to Numa La begins with a gradual climb out of the Dho Tarap valley, following the Tarap Chu River upstream through wide meadows that serve as yak summer grazing land. The trail passes Mondo village and a few isolated stone shelters before reaching the base camp area at around 4,440 meters. Camp is set up in the open, with mountain walls visible on three sides. The sky here is enormous, and at this altitude the stars on a clear night are sharper than most people have seen. Evening temperatures drop well below zero, making a good sleeping bag essential. Tomorrow's early start means gear should be organized the night before.

Daily Summary

Duration4-5 hrs

Distance9 km

AccommodationTeahouse

MealsB,L,D

Mountain SeenNuma La Ridge

Day 10

Numa La BC (4,440 m) to Pelung Tang (4,600 m) via Numa La Pass (5,190 m)

The hardest day on the circuit. The ascent to Numa La Pass begins in early morning darkness, headlamps picking out the rocky trail above the camp. The climb takes three to four hours, through scree and, depending on the season, firm snow. At the top, the 5,190-meter cairn is marked by stacked stones and prayer flags. The view from here covers Dhaulagiri at 8,167 meters, Churen Himal, the Kanjiroba Himal group, and Shey Shikhar. No photograph does it full justice because the eye can turn 360 degrees. The descent from the pass drops into a U-shaped glacial valley with rough footing, requiring trekking pole support. Pelung Tang, a grass-floored camping spot at the base of the valley, provides the overnight stop.

Daily Summary

Duration7-8 hrs

Distance11 km

AccommodationTeahouse

MealsB,L,D

Mountain SeenDhaulagiri, Kanjirowa Himal

Day 11

Pelung Tang (4,600 m) to Dajok Tang (4,200 m) via Baga La Pass (5,070 m)

The second major pass comes quickly, starting the day from Pelung Tang with a long switchbacking ascent to Baga La at 5,070 meters. The approach follows a yak trail that gets progressively steeper, and the final 300 meters involves loose rock underfoot. At the summit, sacred chortens greet the arrival, and the view to the west opens onto Phoksundo Lake far below, its turquoise color visible even at this distance. The descent from Baga La is steep and gravelly, dropping through a series of meadows and short cliff sections into the wide valley of Dajok Tang. This valley, sometimes called one of the prettiest in western Nepal, has waterfalls on two sides and a campsite on the flat valley floor beside a clear river.

Daily Summary

Duration 7-8 hrs

Distance12 km

AccommodationTeahouse

MealsB,L,D

Mountain SeenKanjirowa Himal, Norbung Kang

Day 12

Dajok Tang (4,200 m) to Ringmo (3,620 m)

A shorter and relatively comfortable day after two demanding ones. The trail drops from Dajok Tang through thinning high-altitude scrub and into pine forest, following a river that grows louder as the gradient increases. The sound of the Suligad waterfall, which drains from Phoksundo Lake, becomes audible well before it comes into view. At 167 meters tall, the fall plunges over a limestone cliff in a single white column, sending mist across the surrounding rock faces. The final stretch to Ringmo passes through forest on a trail cut into the hillside above the gorge. Ringmo itself is a small Tibetan-style village of perhaps 30 households, sitting on a flat bench above the waterfall with fields of buckwheat and barley arranged carefully between the stone walls.

Daily Summary

Duration6-7 hrs

Distance15 km

AccommodationTeahouse

MealsB,L,D

Mountain SeenKanjirowa Range

Day 13

Ringmo (3,620 m) to Phoksundo Lake (3,611 m) Exploration Day

Today is a full day at Phoksundo Lake, which is Nepal's deepest lake at 145 meters and one of the highest alpine lakes of its size in the world. From Ringmo, a short uphill path reaches the lakeshore, where the water is so clear that the submerged stones are visible three or four meters down despite the depth of the lake overall. The color varies from deep turquoise in the center to pale green near the edges, and the surrounding limestone cliffs reflect in the surface when the wind drops. The lakeshore gompa, a small Bon monastery, is worth visiting in the morning when the monks may be performing rituals. Wildlife watchers often spot blue sheep on the cliffs above the northern shore. The afternoon passes easily at this altitude, simply absorbing the place.

Daily Summary

Duration4-5 hrs

Distance5-8 km

AccommodationTeahouse

MealsB,L,D

Mountain SeenKanjirowa Himal

Day 14

Phoksundo Lake (3,611 m) to Chhepka (2,640 m)

The descent from Phoksundo Lake begins with the now-familiar path above the Suligad waterfall, then drops through a series of constricted gorge sections where cliff overhangs tower overhead. The trail passes through communities of medicinal herb collectors, and the cliffs reportedly contain mineral deposits traditionally used as remedies for a variety of ailments. Shyanta village appears partway down, a small settlement with a few teahouses and a dramatic position above the river. The trail continues to Chhepka, a compact gorge-side village with basic accommodation. This section of the valley is home to some bird species rarely seen higher up, including Himalayan Monal, the national bird, which frequents the forest edges.

Daily Summary

Duration6-7 hrs

Distance16 km

AccommodationTeahouse

MealsB,L,D

Mountain SeenForested hills

Day 15

Chhepka (2,640 m) to Juphal (2,320 m)

The final full trekking day retraces the early valley sections with a different perspective gained from two weeks in the mountains. Birch groves, suspension bridges, and cultivated terraces feel familiar now. Sulighat is a small village near the trail's end where lunch is usually taken. Juphal airstrip comes into view in the late afternoon, a signal that the walking portion of the circuit is complete. The evening in Juphal is reflective, often spent with the crew over a shared meal, with tips distributed and gear returned. The airstrip's simple guesthouse provides the last overnight before the journey back to the lowlands.

Daily Summary

Duration 5-6 hrs

Distance13 km

AccommodationTeahouse

MealsB,L,D

Mountain SeenLocal ridges

Day 16

Fly Juphal to Nepalgunj and Nepalgunj to Kathmandu (1,400 m)

Two short flights take you back to Kathmandu. The Juphal to Nepalgunj leg takes about 25 minutes, and after an hour's wait in Nepalgunj, the onward flight covers the rest of the distance to Tribhuvan International Airport in roughly one hour. The aerial view of the Dolpo region on the outbound leg gives a final, compressed look at the terrain you spent 12 days crossing on foot. Kathmandu feels extremely busy and warm by comparison. The rest day that follows is built into the package specifically because domestic flight connections to Kathmandu can be disrupted by weather, and the buffer protects international departure schedules.

Daily Summary

DistanceFlights

AccommodationTeahouse

MealsB,L,D

Mountain Seen-

Day 17

Free Day in Kathmandu

Daily Summary

AccommodationTeahouse

MealsB,L,D

Mountain Seen-

Day 18

International Departure

The package concludes with a transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport at the appropriate time for your outbound flight. The guides and local staff will have already returned to their homes or next assignments. What remains is the experience itself, and most trekkers report that the Lower Dolpo Circuit occupies a different kind of memory than other mountain trips. The remoteness, the culture, the two high passes, and Phoksundo Lake at the end do not fade quickly. Safe travels onward.

Daily Summary

AccommodationTeahouse

MealsB,L,D

Mountain Seen-

Cost Details

Price Includes

1. Arrival, City Logistics, and Accommodation

All airport transfers in Kathmandu using private vehicle with experienced driver
Meet and greet service at Tribhuvan International Airport on arrival
3 nights premium hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (twin-sharing, breakfast included)
Optional guided sightseeing in Kathmandu covering UNESCO-listed sites
All ground transportation related to expedition logistics

2. Domestic Flights

Round-trip flight: Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and return
Round-trip flight: Nepalgunj to Juphal and return
All domestic airport taxes and airline surcharges
Priority rebooking support during weather-related delays at Juphal airstrip

3. Permits and Legal Documentation

Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Entry Permit (issued by Department of Immigration)
Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit
Dolpa District entry and checkpoint fees
All government taxes and official documentation fees

4. Accommodation During Trek

Best available teahouse or lodge accommodation in villages along the route
Tented camp accommodation at high-altitude sections including Numa La base camp and Pelung Tang
Full camping setup: dining tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent, and sleeping tents
Foam sleeping mats at all tent camps

5. Meals (Full Board on Trek)

Three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) throughout all trekking days
Freshly cooked camp meals prepared by trained cook at high-altitude camps
Seasonal fruits and trail snacks during trekking hours
Hygienic food preparation following altitude nutrition guidelines

6. Professional Trekking Team

Government-licensed, experienced trekking leader and head guide
Assistant guides based on group size (one guide per 4 trekkers)
Porter team (one porter for every two trekkers, carrying up to 25 kg)
Full cook and kitchen support staff for camp sections
All staff salaries, insurance, meals, and accommodation throughout trek

7. Safety and Medical Support

Comprehensive first aid medical kit carried by the lead guide at all times
Pulse oximeter for daily SpO2 and pulse monitoring throughout high-altitude sections
Emergency oxygen cylinder for critical altitude sickness response
Satellite communication device for emergency coordination in no-signal zones
Coordination support for helicopter evacuation when required (covered by your insurance)

8. Equipment (Group Logistics)

High-quality sleeping bags rated for -20 degrees Celsius or better (on request)
Down jackets available on request for high-altitude sections
All group camping equipment: tents, dining furniture, kitchen gear, fuel
Waterproof storage bags for porter loads

9. Staff Welfare

Full insurance coverage for all guides, assistant guides, and porters
Fair wage guarantee and ethical employment standards throughout
Proper gear, boots, and equipment for all support staff

10. Taxes and Service Charges

All applicable government taxes and VAT
Company service charges with no hidden operational fees

Price Excludes

1. International Travel and Visa

International airfare to and from Nepal
Nepal entry visa fee (available on arrival at Kathmandu airport)

2. Personal Expenses

Tea, coffee, bottled drinks, and energy drinks beyond included meals
Personal snacks purchased at teahouses along the route
Hot shower fees at teahouses (typically NPR 200 to 500 per use)
Wi-Fi and device charging fees at teahouses
Laundry and personal hygiene services

3. Personal Climbing and Trekking Equipment

Personal hiking boots, trekking poles, and gaiters
Personal clothing, layering system, and rain gear
Headlamps, batteries, and personal electronics
Rental support for specific gear can be arranged in Kathmandu if required

4. Travel Insurance (Mandatory)

Comprehensive high-altitude travel insurance (mandatory for all trekkers)
Coverage must include helicopter emergency evacuation up to 5,500 meters
Medical treatment and trip interruption coverage

5. Tips and Gratuity

Tips for guides, porters, cook, and support staff (customary and appreciated)
Standard industry expectation: USD 8 to 15 per day for guides, USD 5 to 10 per day for porters

6. Unforeseen and Force Majeure Costs

Extra accommodation due to weather-related flight delays at Juphal or Nepalgunj
Early return costs due to personal illness or emergency
Natural disasters, landslides, strikes, or political disruptions

7. Optional Add-Ons

Extra hotel nights in Kathmandu before or after the trek
Helicopter return option from Phoksundo Lake or Juphal
Private room upgrades at teahouses where available
Gear rental charges for personal items

Altitude in:

Scroll to view full route

Scenic Highlights Along the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek

Phoksundo Lake (3,611 m): Nepal's deepest alpine lake, with 145-meter depth and water that ranges from glacier-blue to turquoise depending on light and wind.
Numa La Pass (5,190 m): The high point of the circuit, with an unobstructed panorama of Dhaulagiri, Kanjiroba Himal, Shey Shikhar, and the Churen Himal massif.
Baga La Pass (5,070 m): The second major crossing, where sacred chortens mark the summit, and the first views of Phoksundo Lake appear on descent.
Shey Phoksundo Waterfall: A 167-meter cascade fed directly by the outflow of Phoksundo Lake, falling over a limestone cliff into the Suligad River gorge below.
Dho Tarap Village (4,080 m): The cultural heart of Lower Dolpo, a wide valley settlement with active Bon monasteries, traditional stone architecture, and a living connection to pre-Buddhist Tibetan traditions.
Shey Phoksundo National Park: Nepal's largest national park in area, encompassing rain-shadow desert, dense gorge forests, and high-altitude alpine zones home to snow leopards, grey wolves, and blue sheep.
Mekyem Gompa and Ribo Bompa: Pre-Buddhist Bon monasteries with large Maitreya statues, ancient thangkas, and collections of ritual objects rarely encountered outside this region.
Bheri River Gorge: The dramatic river corridor at the base of the approach is flanked by overhanging cliffs and medicinal plant communities used by local healers for centuries.
Ringmo Village: A compact Tibetan settlement above the waterfall with buckwheat terraces, prayer wheels, and a gompa maintained by the local Bon community.
Rain Shadow Landscapes: The dramatic visual shift from monsoon-fed pine forest to dry Tibetan plateau within a few hours of walking is unique to the western Himalayan region.

Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek Departures

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Trip duration: 18 Days

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Meet Our Expert Guides

Shiva Kumar Shrestha

Managing Director & Senior Guide

20 years of experience

I am an experienced and knowledgeable Senior Guide who has accompanied countless travelers throughout their time spent hiking in Nepal. Beginning my working life in 2004 as a porter, I am now a government-licensed trekking guide in Nepal with many years of experience. I was born and raised in the mountainous region of Dhading, and as a result, I have an in-depth understanding of the region's history, traditions, culture, and festivals. I have extensive experience trekking in the Everest, Annapurna, Langtang, Manaslu, and Dolpo regions.

Deepak Gurung

Trekking Guide

12 years of experience

I have more than ten years of experience directing hikers across the high terrain of the Nepal Himalaya. I was born and grew up in the Gorkha highlands, which has given me profound awareness of the mountains and the way of life of the people who live in them. I have led numerous expeditions to Everest Base Camp and other locations in the Everest and Annapurna ranges. I received training from the Nepal Academy of Tourism and Hotel Management (NATHM) as a Trekking Guide. I am especially skilled at directing groups of senior citizens and families with children.

Ramsaran Shrestha

Senior Trekking Guide

19 years of experience

Anyone who spends some time with me will eventually recognize me for the respectful and knowledgeable gentleman that I am. I started working as a hiking guide at the end of the nineties. Since 2004, I have been one of Accessible Adventure's employees, and I currently have a position as one of the company's senior trekking guides. I am one of the most experienced, competent, and professional trekking guides, and I speak English fluently. I have traveled with trekking groups on an uncountable number of Nepal's trails.

Meena Karki

Trekking Guide

13 years of experience

I am from the Kaski district in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Trekking has been my passion since childhood as I grew up seeing trekkers and hikers stepping up the trails for trekking adventures. Following my dreams, I took female trekking guide as my profession and now I have more than a decade of experience in this field. I have been to Everest, Annapurna, Langtang, Mustang and most of the trekking regions numerous times. With in-depth knowledge of routes, culture, and history, I ensure your trekking adventure is extra special.

Prakash Gurung

Trekking Guide

8 years of experience

I am a young and enthusiastic guide with enough knowledge in guiding the Himalayas. Having sound experience in the trekking sector, I bring rich experience and readiness to assist trekkers with professionalism and dedication. I respect not only my own culture but also those of other communities. My unwavering commitment has been an enormous boon to the organization's ability to function smoothly. I recently received my license from the Ministry of Tourism Hotel Management tourist training center and have a certificate for providing first aid at high altitudes.

Ram Hari Dhamala

Trekking Guide

11 years of experience

I am a field member of Accessible Adventure with more than a decade of experience working in the field of travel and tourism. I am certified as a trekking guide and was brought up among the wondrous sights and sounds of Mother Nature in the picturesque town of Dhading. The rolling landscape complete with mountains, valleys, and rivers has always piqued my interest. Because of my deep love for the outdoors, I decided to pursue a career in tourism. My disposition is cordial and upbeat, and I am responsible and experienced.

Additional Information

Oxygen Saturation (SpO2) Reference Chart: Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek

Day	Place	Altitude (m)	Estimated SpO2 (%)	Notes
1	Kathmandu	1,400	96-99%	Baseline at low altitude, no impact
2	Kathmandu	1,400	96-99%	Permit day, no altitude stress
3	Nepalgunj	154	98-99%	Sea-level equivalent, full oxygen
4	Juphal / Dunai	2,320 / 2,140	93-96%	Mild exposure, body begins adjusting
5	Tarakot	2,540	91-95%	Gradual acclimatization phase
6	Laini	2,970	90-93%	Moderate altitude, stable
7	Nawarpani	3,545	87-91%	Noticeable drop, hydration critical
8	Dho Tarap	4,080	83-87%	High altitude threshold, rest essential
9	Dho Tarap (rest)	4,080	83-88%	Acclimatization improves efficiency
10	Numa La Base Camp	4,440	81-85%	AMS risk increases, monitor closely
11	Pelung Tang via Numa La	5,190 / 4,600	74-79% (pass)	Critical zone at summit, descent aids recovery
12	Dajok Tang via Baga La	5,070 / 4,200	75-81% (pass)	Second high-altitude crossing
13	Ringmo	3,620	86-90%	Recovery improves at lower altitude
14	Phoksundo Lake	3,611	86-90%	Rest day, stable saturation
15	Chhepka	2,640	91-94%	Significant recovery on descent
16	Juphal	2,320	93-96%	Near-normal levels returning
17	Kathmandu	1,400	96-99%	Full recovery at low altitude
18	Departure	-	-	End of trek

A Typical Day on the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek

A morning on the Dolpo circuit starts early by necessity rather than preference. At high camps, the air is cold and still before sunrise, and the cook usually has tea ready by 5:30 or 6:00 AM. The temperature inside the sleeping tent can be well below zero, so the standard routine involves staying in the sleeping bag until the last possible moment, then moving quickly into warm layers. The tent unzips to reveal whatever the morning sky has decided: sometimes a clear blue start, sometimes a low cloud layer that thins as the day warms.

Breakfast in the dining tent runs about 45 minutes. The cook will have prepared porridge with dried fruit, eggs cooked to order, local bread with jam or honey, and a pot of hot water for tea or instant coffee. The calories matter here. Trekking at high altitude burns significantly more energy than walking at sea level, and starting the day properly fueled makes a measurable difference by early afternoon.

The guide briefs the group on the day's route over breakfast: approximate distance, elevation change, any technical sections, and the planned lunch stop. Daily distances on this circuit range from 8 kilometers on shorter days to 20 kilometers on the Nawarpani to Dho Tarap stretch. Most walking sessions run for two to three hours before a natural break at a viewpoint, teahouse, or flat stone alongside the trail.

By mid-morning, the sun is usually doing real work, and the layers that felt essential at dawn start getting packed back into the daypack. Trekking poles become particularly useful on any trail with loose rock or steep drops. Porters, moving faster with heavier loads, have typically already passed through by this point and will be waiting at the lunch stop with the main bags.

Lunch stops vary by location. In villages, a teahouse provides simple food, usually dal bhat, noodles, or fried rice. Above 4,000 meters, the cook sets up a camp lunch with bread, cheese, tinned fish, biscuits, and soup. The lunch break runs roughly an hour, which on colder days means keeping a jacket on and staying near the stove.

The afternoon segment is typically shorter, and arrival at camp or the overnight teahouse usually happens between 3:00 and 5:00 PM. This buffer time before dinner is valuable. Some people wash socks, update journals, or spend time photographing the changing light on the mountains. Others simply sleep for an hour, which is not a bad decision at altitude. The guides often use this window to check permits at any local checkpoints or to arrange logistics for the following day.

Dinner is the social moment of the day. The cook produces something substantial: rice with vegetable curry and dal, or pasta in a tomato sauce, sometimes with a soup starter. The group eats together in the dining tent or teahouse common room, and the conversation tends to run over what happened during the day. Guides are natural storytellers and often use dinner to explain what you will see tomorrow.

Bedtime on serious mountain treks is not a late affair. Above 4,000 meters, sleep quality decreases and the body needs more of it, so being horizontal by 8:30 or 9:00 PM is genuinely advisable. The night outside is usually very quiet. Wind, the river, and occasional distant animal calls are the only sounds. Morning comes around again soon enough.

Accommodation Overview for the Journey

Accommodation on the Lower Dolpo Circuit covers two distinct environments: urban hotels in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj, and remote trekking stays divided between teahouses in villages and tented camps in the high sections above the tree line.

In Kathmandu, the standard accommodation is a well-rated mid-range hotel in the Thamel area, with clean twin-sharing rooms, private bathroom, hot water, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. Breakfast is included. The location puts you within easy walking distance of the gear shops, permit offices, and travel agencies needed for final preparation. Some trekkers use the free time to visit temples or adjust to the time zone before the early morning domestic flight.

Nepalgunj accommodation is simple but comfortable. One night in a clean guesthouse in the city center gives you access to a real bed, warm shower, and the last reliable restaurant meal before the trek begins. The options here are functional rather than atmospheric, but nobody spends much time there beyond sleeping and a quick breakfast.

In the villages along the lower approach (Dunai, Tarakot, Laini), accommodation is in locally run teahouses. Rooms are basic with single or twin beds, foam mattresses, and shared bathrooms. Hot water is sometimes available from a wood-heated bucket system. The common rooms, heated by a central stove, are usually warmer than the bedrooms and are where most evening socializing happens. The teahouse owners in this region are accustomed to international trekkers and maintain a reasonable standard of cleanliness.

In Dho Tarap, the teahouse standard improves slightly. Some lodges have windowed rooms with views across the valley, and the larger ones have dining rooms that seat entire groups. Dho Tarap's resident population is larger than the smaller trail villages, and the resulting infrastructure reflects that.

Above Dho Tarap, at Numa La Base Camp and Pelung Tang, the team sets up tented camps. Sleeping tents are provided, typically two-person expedition tents with a dry inner layer. Each person gets a sleeping mat and, where not brought personally, a sleeping bag rated to at least -20 degrees Celsius. The dining tent is a separate enclosed space with a folding table, chairs, and a kerosene or gas stove for the cook. A toilet tent with a collapsible frame is set up at each camp location.

Ringmo, the last village before Phoksundo Lake, has a few family-run teahouses with simple but warm rooms and reliable Tibetan-style cooking. One or two nights here give you a genuine community experience, particularly if you take the morning walk up to the lake before the wind picks up.

Best Time to Visit for the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek

Two seasons work well for the Lower Dolpo Circuit: spring from late March through May, and autumn from late September through November. Both offer the stable weather, clear skies, and reliable domestic flight conditions that this trek requires.

Spring is the quieter of the two seasons in terms of trekker numbers. The days warm up progressively through April, and at lower elevations the rhododendron forests are at their brightest. At higher altitudes above 4,000 meters, night temperatures remain cold through April but become more manageable by May. Snow on the passes is possible in March and early April, requiring crampons and careful route assessment. By late April and May, the passes are typically clear and the plateau above Dho Tarap turns green with the first grass growth of the season.

Autumn is generally considered the classic Himalayan trekking season and draws more visitors. The post-monsoon atmosphere is extremely clear, and the high-altitude views on both passes are at their sharpest in October and early November. Village harvests are underway in September, filling the fields with color and activity. Temperature conditions in autumn are comparable to spring, though the nights cool earlier and the days shorten more quickly by late November. Teahouses in the more visited sections of the route are busier during peak autumn weeks.

Winter between December and February is technically possible but genuinely demanding. Passes will be snow-covered and potentially impassable without mountaineering experience and equipment. Temperatures at high camps can drop to -25 degrees Celsius or lower. Only experienced mountaineers with full cold-weather gear and very flexible scheduling should consider winter.

The monsoon months from mid-June through early September bring heavy rain to the lower valley sections. The rain shadow effect means Dho Tarap and the high plateau receive less precipitation than the approach gorges, so some experienced trekkers do visit in July and August specifically for the wildflower bloom and the absence of crowds. However, the approach trails become extremely slippery, leeches are common below 3,000 meters, and domestic flight disruptions are frequent.

Meals During the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek

Food on the Lower Dolpo circuit is a genuine part of the experience, not simply fuel. The basic structure is three prepared meals per day from the moment the trek starts at Juphal until the return. In the villages, teahouse kitchens handle the cooking. In the high camps above the tree line, the team's cook manages everything from a portable gas-fueled kitchen set up inside the cooking tent.

Breakfast is typically the most substantial meal, eaten before the walking begins. Options at teahouses range from porridge, eggs, Tibetan bread, chapati, or pancakes. In camp, the cook prepares a hot cereal base with dried fruit and a side of eggs or toast. Tea is usually black or milk-based, and instant coffee or herbal options are generally available. At altitude, the appetite sometimes diminishes, particularly in the first day or two above 4,000 meters. Eating anyway, even small amounts, is strongly encouraged.

Lunch is taken mid-trail, either at a teahouse where one exists or from the cook's portable setup at a rest point. Dal bhat, Nepal's foundational meal of lentil soup over rice with vegetable sides, is the most common choice and the most practical at altitude. It is highly digestible, calorie-dense, and can be eaten in large quantities. Soups, noodle dishes, and vegetable fried rice are also standard options. At higher elevations, the menu narrows but the portions remain generous.

Dinner repeats a similar pattern: rice-based dishes, soups, pasta, or a camp stew when the cook has the ingredients. The cook's repertoire on longer treks tends to surprise trekkers. A proper pot of pasta with a simple tomato and herb sauce after a long pass day is one of the small joys of organized trekking.

A few practical notes on food during this trek. Meat is rarely available above Dunai, and when it appears in teahouse menus, freshness cannot be guaranteed at this temperature range and distance from markets. Most trekkers find that vegetarian eating works well for the duration. Dairy products, including tea with milk and occasional fresh curd in villages, are generally reliable. Water comes from boiling at teahouses or filtration at camp, and the team will always provide safe drinking water throughout.

Bringing personal snacks from Kathmandu or Nepalgunj is a good idea. Energy bars, nuts, dried fruit, chocolate, and electrolyte powders supplement the main meals and are particularly useful during long climbing days. Some trekkers bring powdered protein supplements for the high camps. There are no shops beyond Dunai, so whatever you carry from there is what you have.

Difficulty Level During the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek

The Lower Dolpo Circuit is classified as a moderate to strenuous trek. It is not a technical climb in the mountaineering sense, but the combination of high altitude, remote logistics, extended daily walking, and demanding pass crossings places it firmly in the category of serious mountain trekking. It is not suitable as a first Himalayan trek for anyone who has not done substantial preparation.

Altitude and Acclimatization

The trek exceeds 4,000 meters for several consecutive days, peaking at 5,190 meters on Numa La Pass and 5,070 meters on Baga La. At these elevations, oxygen saturation drops significantly, making every physical effort feel harder than it would at sea level. Altitude sickness, including mild headache and reduced appetite, is common above 4,000 meters. The itinerary includes a full acclimatization day in Dho Tarap to address this. Difficulty level for altitude: High.

Physical Endurance

Daily walking times range from 3 to 8 hours depending on the segment. The longest day, from Nawarpani to Dho Tarap, covers 20 kilometers across challenging mixed terrain. Pass days involve sustained climbing over 5 to 6 hours followed by steep descents. Trekkers should be able to walk continuously for 6 hours at moderate pace on consecutive days before departing. Difficulty level: Moderate to High.

Technical Challenge

No technical climbing is required. Trekking poles are strongly recommended and are helpful on most trail sections. The passes involve loose scree and, in early season, compact snow requiring careful footing. No ropes or crampons are standard requirements in peak season, though early-season trekkers may need microspikes. Difficulty level: Moderate.

Weather and Environment

The rain shadow environment of Dolpo means dry air year-round, which accelerates dehydration. Wind can be strong on the passes. Temperature variation between midday and midnight can exceed 25 degrees Celsius in the high camps. Difficulty level: Moderate.

Mental Endurance

Remote trekking with limited communication infrastructure, simple food, and unpredictable weather demands a flexible mindset. Days go as planned most of the time, but altitude or weather can alter schedules. The absence of phone signal for most of the route is something some trekkers find difficult. The guides are experienced in managing group morale and pace. Difficulty level: Moderate.

Who This Trek is Suited For

This circuit works well for trekkers who have completed a prior high-altitude trail, such as the Everest Base Camp trek or the Annapurna Circuit, and are looking for something more remote and culturally distinctive. It is accessible to fit and motivated beginners who commit to a full preparation program in the months before departure. The team structures the pace conservatively and monitors health closely throughout.

Altitude and Acclimatization: Trekking Successfully at High Elevation

Altitude sickness is the most serious health risk on any Himalayan trek, and the Lower Dolpo circuit is no exception. Understanding how acclimatization works, what warning signs to watch for, and how the itinerary manages the risk is essential before departing.

The human body adjusts to high altitude by producing more red blood cells and modifying its breathing patterns over several days. This process takes time. Ascending too quickly disrupts it, which is why the itinerary limits altitude gain to no more than 500 meters per day once above 3,000 meters and includes a full rest day at Dho Tarap.

The Climb High, Sleep Low Principle

On acclimatization days and rest days, short hikes to higher ground followed by a return to sleep at lower elevation accelerate the body's adjustment. The day at Dho Tarap follows this principle with optional short walks to the monastery ridge before returning to the valley floor for the night.

Hydration

At altitude, the body loses water faster through accelerated respiration. Drinking at least 3 to 4 liters of fluid per day is the single most effective thing a trekker can do beyond following the itinerary. Warm water or herbal tea works as well as plain water. Alcohol and strong coffee are diuretics that worsen dehydration and should be limited.

Recognizing Altitude Sickness Symptoms

Mild AMS symptoms include persistent headache, reduced appetite, poor sleep, and mild nausea. These are common above 4,000 meters and are not cause for immediate alarm. The rule is: if symptoms persist through rest and hydration, or worsen, descent is required. Severe AMS progresses to loss of coordination, fluid buildup in the lungs (HAPE) or brain (HACE), both of which require immediate evacuation. The lead guide carries a pulse oximeter and monitors SpO2 readings daily for each trekker. Readings below 70 percent at rest are a trigger for medical protocol.

Medication

Consult your doctor before departure about carrying Acetazolamide (Diamox), which is the most widely used preventive and therapeutic medication for AMS. It should be started one or two days before significant altitude gain and continued as directed. Not everyone needs it, but having it available is sensible.

Permits and Regulations for the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek

Because Dolpo sits in a restricted zone bordering Tibet, the permit requirements are more detailed than for standard trekking areas of Nepal. All permits must be arranged through a registered trekking agency in Kathmandu. Solo permit acquisition at border crossings or park gates is not possible for this region.

Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Entry Permit: Required for all foreign nationals entering the Dolpo restricted zone. Issued by the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu. Cost is USD 20 for the first week plus USD 5 for each additional day. A minimum group of two people is required, and an independent licensed guide must accompany the group at all times.
Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit: Required for entry into the national park, which the trek crosses through for a significant portion of the route. Cost is NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 25) per person, plus 13 percent VAT. Available through the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or at the park gate.
Dolpa District Checkpoint Registration: All trekkers must register at district checkpoints along the trail. The trekking agency handles this, but you should carry your passport and permit copies at all times.

Regulations along this route include following designated trails, not crossing into upper restricted zones without additional upper Dolpo permits, and respecting monastery rules including removing shoes at entrances and not photographing religious objects without permission. Trekking through the national park requires adherence to leave-no-trace principles, with waste management strictly enforced at camp sites. Failure to carry valid permits can result in fines and being turned back at checkpoints.

Transportation During the Trek

Getting to the Lower Dolpo region and back involves a chain of transport links, all of which are organized within the package. Understanding each segment helps you prepare for the full experience.

Flights: Kathmandu to Nepalgunj

The Kathmandu to Nepalgunj leg is operated by multiple domestic airlines on a route that takes approximately one hour. Aircraft are typically propeller-driven twin-engine turboprops. The flight covers the mid-hill region and, on a clear day, offers views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges to the north.

Flights: Nepalgunj to Juphal

This is the defining flight of the approach. Small aircraft seating 9 to 19 passengers operate the Nepalgunj to Juphal run when weather permits. The approach to Juphal airstrip is approached over a ridge before dropping steeply to the sloped grass runway at 2,320 meters. Weather delays are common, particularly in the afternoon, which is why the itinerary builds a morning departure and allows buffer time at both ends of the trek.

Private Vehicles in Kathmandu

All transfers within Kathmandu between the airport, hotel, and permit offices are handled by private vehicle. Driving time varies from 20 to 45 minutes depending on traffic, which in Kathmandu can be unpredictable. The vehicles are comfortable and air-conditioned.

Trekking: The Primary Transport Mode

Once at Juphal, everything moves on foot. Porters carry the main bags, allowing trekkers to move with a light daypack carrying only water, snacks, camera, and extra layers. There are no roads, motorcycles, or other mechanized options in the Dolpo interior. This is precisely what makes the experience what it is.

Helicopter Evacuation

Helicopter rescue is available for medical emergencies anywhere along the route, subject to weather and landing conditions. This is arranged through your travel insurance and coordinated by the lead guide using satellite communication. Response times in the Dolpo region can range from a few hours to a full day depending on weather. Comprehensive insurance with evacuation coverage is mandatory.

Extra Personal Expenses During the Trek

The package covers the full logistics, accommodation, and food on the trail, but personal spending on top of that is worth budgeting in advance.

In Kathmandu and Nepalgunj, meals outside the included breakfasts cost between USD 5 and 20 depending on where you eat. Coffee shops, bakeries, and international restaurants in Thamel charge more than neighborhood restaurants. Budget around USD 30 per day for comfortable eating and occasional shopping in the city.

On the trek, teahouses charge separately for items not covered by the package, including hot showers (NPR 200 to 500), phone charging (NPR 100 to 300 per hour), and Wi-Fi (NPR 100 to 300 per session). These costs are modest but add up over 12 or 13 days. Beyond Dunai, shops and extra purchases essentially stop, so stock up before leaving.

Tipping is customary and important. The guide, assistant guides, cook, and porters put in hard physical and professional work over 18 days in remote conditions. Standard industry practice is USD 8 to 15 per day for the lead guide, USD 5 to 10 for assistant guides, and USD 5 to 8 for porters. Most groups pool the tips and present them as a group gesture on the final evening.

Photography enthusiasts should budget for extra memory cards and a second camera battery. Gopro-type cameras and travel tripods add convenience but weight. A small solar charger is helpful for keeping devices alive in the sections with no teahouse power.

A comfortable total personal spending budget for 18 days, covering tips, city meals, hot showers, communication, and miscellaneous items, is approximately USD 350 to 500.

Essential Equipment Required for the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek

Clothing System

The layering principle matters here more than specific brand or material. Three functional layers, each serving a distinct purpose, get you through the full temperature range from Nepalgunj at 30 degrees to Numa La at -10 to -15 degrees.

Base layer: moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms, two or three sets. Merino wool or synthetic are both good options.
Mid layer: fleece jacket or heavyweight long-sleeve shirt for warmth without bulk.
Outer layer: waterproof and windproof jacket with hood. Should be breathable enough for sustained climbing.
Down jacket with hood: essential for high camp evenings and mornings. A jacket rated to -15 degrees at minimum.
Trekking pants: two pairs of quick-drying synthetic pants for daytime use.
Warm hat and sun hat: both are needed. A beanie for mornings and evenings, a brimmed hat for afternoon sun.
Gloves: lightweight liner gloves for trekking, insulated gloves or mittens for high camps and pass crossings.
Socks: four to five pairs of moisture-wicking trekking socks, with two pairs of heavier thermal socks for altitude.

Footwear

Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support and a stiff enough sole for rocky terrain: these are the most important single item to get right.
Camp shoes or lightweight sandals for evenings at teahouses.
Gaiters for pass sections in early season when snow is present.

Packs and Bags

Daypack of 25 to 35 liters with rain cover for daily personal items.
Large duffel bag of 80 to 100 liters for the porter load. This carries everything not needed during daily walking.
Waterproof dry bags or compression sacks for organizing contents and keeping gear dry during river crossings.

Sleeping Gear

Sleeping bag rated to -20 degrees Celsius: essential for high-altitude camps. This is the minimum, not a guideline.
Sleeping bag liner for added warmth and hygiene in teahouses.

Safety and Navigation

Headlamp with extra batteries: pre-dawn starts on pass days require a reliable light source.
Trekking poles: both poles, adjustable, used on virtually every section of this trek.
Personal first aid kit: blister supplies, pain medication, antihistamine, ibuprofen, and any personal prescriptions.
Altitude sickness medication (Diamox): consult your doctor before the trip.

Sun Protection

Sunscreen SPF 50 or higher: UV intensity at altitude is much higher than at sea level.
Lip balm with SPF: chapping at altitude and in dry air is faster than expected.
Sunglasses with UV protection and wraparound coverage for snow and glacier sections.

Electronics and Miscellaneous

Power bank (minimum 20,000 mAh): electricity is absent or limited for most of the high-altitude section.
A camera with enough storage capacity for 12 to 14 trekking days.
Water bottles (two, minimum one liter each) or a hydration bladder.
Water purification tablets or a lightweight filter as backup to the team-provided boiled water.
Personal snacks from Kathmandu: energy bars, nuts, dried fruit, electrolyte sachets.

Preparation for the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek

Preparation for this trek should start at minimum three months before departure. The combination of remote logistics, high passes, and extended duration makes physical and logistical preparation more important than on shorter, lower-altitude trails.

Physical Training

Cardiovascular fitness is the foundation. Running, cycling, swimming, and stair work all build the aerobic base needed for sustained high-altitude walking. Aim for four to five sessions per week, progressively increasing duration over the final eight weeks. Adding long hiking days with a weighted pack (start at 7 kilograms and work up to 10 to 12 kilograms) on weekends is the most direct preparation for what the trek actually demands. Leg strength and core stability matter for the descent sections, which are long and technically demanding on the knees. Squats, lunges, and step-ups build the necessary muscle without overworking the joints.

Gear Testing

New hiking boots should be worn for at least 50 to 60 kilometers before the trek begins. Blisters caused by untested boots are one of the most common and preventable problems on longer treks. Sleeping bags and warm layers should also be tested at realistic temperatures if possible.

Health Checks

A medical consultation before departure is strongly recommended. Your doctor should be aware of the altitude, duration, and remote location of the trek and can advise on personal health considerations. Dental issues, skin conditions, and any cardiac or respiratory concerns should be addressed before departure.

Permits and Insurance

The trekking company handles all permit procurement on your behalf. What you need to provide in advance includes a scanned copy of your passport and two passport-sized photos for the restricted area permit application. Travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation to at least 5,500 meters should be purchased before arrival in Nepal, and the policy number and emergency contact must be shared with the lead guide before departure.

Mental Preparation

Remote trekking means accepting that schedules occasionally change, that comfort is limited at high camps, and that the only option when something gets hard is to continue at a sustainable pace. The most successful trekkers on this circuit are those who approach uncertainty with curiosity rather than anxiety. A flexible mindset is as important as physical fitness.

Safety and Acclimatization During the Trip

Safety management on the Lower Dolpo circuit operates across several dimensions: physical health monitoring, weather assessment, trail safety, and emergency protocols. The lead guide is responsible for all of these throughout the trip.

Daily SpO2 monitoring using a pulse oximeter gives the guide objective data on how each trekker's body is handling the altitude. Readings are typically taken morning and evening during the high sections of the route. Values below 80 percent at rest signal concern and trigger protocol review. Values below 70 percent are a medical emergency requiring descent and potentially evacuation.

Weather assessment is ongoing. The guide checks conditions each morning before departure and adjusts pace, start time, and route decisions based on what the sky and wind indicate. Pass crossings are best done in the early morning before afternoon cloud and wind develop. On days when conditions are genuinely dangerous, the itinerary has built-in flexibility to hold at camp.

Trail safety on loose scree, river crossings, and cliffside paths requires attention and trekking poles. The guide leads at the front of the group on technical sections and the assistant guide stays at the rear. No trekker walks outside the group in the high-altitude or remote sections.

Emergency protocols are clearly explained on Day 2 of the trip. Every trekker should know the team's satellite communication device location, the emergency insurance contact number, and the agreed protocol for altitude sickness response. Practice this once before the high sections begin.

Travel Insurance for the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek

Travel insurance for this trek is not optional. The combination of high altitude, helicopter evacuation costs, and remote location means that trekking uninsured would be a serious financial and safety risk. A standard helicopter evacuation from the Dolpo region to Kathmandu can cost USD 3,000 to 6,000, and medical treatment on top of that adds considerably more. No trekker should consider this route without a policy in place before arrival in Nepal.

Your policy must cover the following: high-altitude trekking and climbing activities to at least 5,500 meters. Emergency helicopter evacuation from the trekking area. Hospitalization and medical treatment for altitude sickness, injury, and illness. Trip cancellation and interruption, including costs arising from domestic flight delays at Juphal. Loss or damage of trekking equipment.

Read the policy exclusions carefully. Some policies exclude trekking above a certain altitude unless declared during purchase. Some exclude pre-existing medical conditions unless specifically declared and accepted. If you take Diamox or any cardiac or respiratory medication, your insurer should be aware before the policy is purchased.

Carry both a printed copy and a digital copy of the policy. Write the emergency assistance phone number in your notebook, your phone, and your daypack. Share the policy number and emergency contact with the lead guide before Day 4 of the trek.

Reputable providers with experience in Himalayan evacuation coverage include World Nomads, Global Rescue, IMG Global, and Battleface. Prices for an 18-day high-altitude trek typically range from USD 150 to 300 depending on your country of residence, age, and coverage level.

Weather Conditions on the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek (Month by Month)

The Lower Dolpo region sits in a Tibetan-type rain shadow, meaning it receives considerably less monsoon precipitation than the rest of Nepal. This affects the seasonal character of the trek significantly.

January to February

Winter conditions. Temperatures at high camps drop to -20 to -25 degrees Celsius at night. The passes are often snow-covered and may require crampons or specialized winter gear. Teahouses at the higher villages may be closed or operating with minimal staff. This season is viable only for experienced winter mountaineers with fully cold-weather equipped teams and significant schedule flexibility.

March to May

Spring season is excellent, particularly April and May. Daytime temperatures at Dho Tarap range from 5 to 15 degrees Celsius. Passes clear of ice by mid-April in most years. Wildflowers appear in the lower gorge sections from late March. Snow leopard activity reportedly increases in spring as prey animals move to higher elevations. Fewer trekkers than autumn, giving the village encounters a more personal quality.

June to early September

Monsoon season in the approach valleys brings rain and leeches below 3,000 meters. The high plateau above Dho Tarap is relatively dry due to the rain shadow, making July and August actually viable there, but the approach trail is difficult. Domestic flights to Juphal face higher cancellation rates. Wildflowers at altitude are at their peak. Not recommended for first-time visitors.

Late September to November

Autumn is the premier season. Post-monsoon air is exceptionally clear, and visibility from the passes extends over 150 kilometers on a good day. October days at Dho Tarap are mild (8 to 18 degrees Celsius) with cold nights. High-season flight reliability to Juphal is good. Teahouses are fully staffed and well-stocked. Harvests fill the lower villages with activity. November brings colder conditions and the season begins closing for the higher villages after mid-November.

December

Early December is the tail end of the viable autumn window. Upper trail sections become cold and snow can begin on the passes. A December trek requires a fully cold-weather gear setup and route flexibility.

Why Choose the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek Over Other Nepal Routes

Nepal has excellent trekking across multiple regions. The question of why someone would choose the Lower Dolpo circuit over an Everest or Annapurna route usually comes down to what they are looking for beyond mountain views.

The Everest and Annapurna corridors are accessible, well-serviced, and visually magnificent. They are also among the busiest trekking routes in Asia during peak season. The tea houses are built for volume, the trails are wide, and at the most popular sections the path resembles a queue more than a wilderness experience.

The Lower Dolpo circuit is the opposite. Fewer than a few hundred international trekkers visit per year. The trail is shared with yak caravans and the occasional local horse trader moving goods between villages. Phoksundo Lake, despite being one of the genuinely spectacular natural features in the Himalayan region, remains almost entirely without tourist infrastructure. You reach it after two hard pass days and the experience of standing at its shore feels directly proportional to that effort.

Beyond the scenery, the cultural encounter in Dolpo is not found elsewhere. The Bon religion practiced in Dho Tarap is not performative. The village is not structured around tourism. The monks at Ribo Bompa gompa are conducting their traditional practices regardless of whether foreign trekkers are present or not. You observe, respectfully, a community that has maintained its identity for centuries under conditions that have reduced similar communities elsewhere to tourism performance.

Finally, the rain shadow landscape itself is worth the journey. Most Nepal trekking takes place in lush, green, monsoon-fed mountain country. The dry, brown, wide-open plateau above Dho Tarap is a different world, visually closer to Ladakh or the Tibetan plateau than to the Annapurna foothills. The sense of space and stillness in that landscape is difficult to find elsewhere in the Himalayan range.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek

GENERAL

6 Qs

What is the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek?

The Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek is an 18-day trekking route in the Dolpa District of far northwest Nepal. It passes through the Shey Phoksundo National Park, crosses two passes above 5,000 meters, and visits Phoksundo Lake, one of the most visually striking alpine lakes in the Himalayan range. The route runs through deep gorge trails along the Thulo Bheri River, across the wide plateau valley of Dho Tarap at 4,080 meters, over Numa La (5,190 m) and Baga La (5,070 m), and finishes at Phoksundo Lake before returning to Juphal airstrip. All flights into the region go through Nepalgunj, a city near the Indian border in mid-western Nepal.

What makes Lower Dolpo different from more popular Nepal treks?

Lower Dolpo sits in a high-altitude rain shadow directly influenced by the Tibetan Plateau, which means the climate, landscape, and culture are closer to the Tibetan world than the lush, monsoon-fed mountain Nepal most trekkers are familiar with. The terrain is dryer and more open above 4,000 meters, with brown plateaus and wide valleys replacing the rhododendron forests of routes like Annapurna or Langtang. Visitor numbers here are among the lowest for any trekking destination in Nepal. The communities along the route, particularly in Dho Tarap and Ringmo, maintain active Bon religious traditions, living in stone houses and farming at altitudes where most agriculture in Nepal has long since disappeared.

What is the Bon religion practiced in Dho Tarap?

Bon is the indigenous religious tradition of Tibet and predates the arrival of Buddhism in the region by several centuries. It combines animistic and shamanic practices with a structured cosmological worldview that diverges from Buddhist texts in key ways. In Dho Tarap, you can observe this through the layout of the monasteries, the direction of kora (circumambulation) walks around sacred structures (counterclockwise in Bon, opposite to Buddhist practice), and the ritual instruments used in ceremonies. Ribo Bompa and Mekyem Gompa are the two main Bon monasteries in the village. This is one of the very few places in the world where Bon is still practiced as a day-to-day community tradition rather than as a preserved cultural exhibit.

What is Phoksundo Lake and why does it matter?

Phoksundo Lake is Nepal's deepest lake at 145 meters, sitting at 3,611 meters above sea level on the edge of Shey Phoksundo National Park. The water color ranges from deep turquoise to pale aquamarine depending on light and wind conditions, the result of its depth and glacial mineral composition. The lake is sacred to both Bon practitioners and Tibetan Buddhists, and it appears in Bon cosmological tradition as a place of specific spiritual significance. It gained international attention when it appeared as a filming location in the 1999 film Caravan (Himalaya), which received an Academy Award nomination. The 167-meter waterfall fed by the lake's outflow, which you walk past on the approach to Ringmo, is one of the more dramatic natural features on the entire route.

How many trekkers visit Lower Dolpo each year?

Visitor numbers in the Dolpo region remain low compared to other Himalayan trekking destinations. The combination of expensive permits, restricted access, remote logistics, and difficult terrain limits traffic to a fraction of what routes like Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit receive. This is part of what makes the cultural and natural experience here so different. You will not share the trail with crowds, and village encounters have a genuine quality that is increasingly rare on more traveled routes.

Is the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek the same as the Upper Dolpo Trek?

No. The two are distinct routes with different permit requirements and significantly different logistics. Lower Dolpo centers on the area between Juphal, Dho Tarap, and Phoksundo Lake. Upper Dolpo extends further north toward the Tibetan border and includes destinations like Shey Gompa, Crystal Mountain, and Saldang. Upper Dolpo requires an additional permit (currently USD 500 per person for the first 10 days), takes considerably longer, and involves even more remote conditions. The Lower Dolpo circuit is, on its own, a serious and complete trekking experience. Some operators offer combined routes covering both regions.

WEATHER AND TEMPERATURE

4 Qs

When is the best time to do the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek?

Two seasons work reliably: spring from late March through May, and autumn from late September through November. Both offer stable weather, dry trails, and the clear skies needed for the two high pass crossings.
Autumn, particularly October, is considered the premier season. Post-monsoon air is exceptionally clear, visibility from the passes can extend over 150 kilometers, village harvests add activity along the lower approach, and teahouses are fully staffed. Daytime temperatures at Dho Tarap in October typically range from 8 to 18 degrees Celsius, with cold nights that drop well below freezing at higher camps.
Spring is quieter in terms of visitor numbers. April and May offer warming days, wildflowers in the lower gorge sections from late March, and the first new grass growth appearing on the high plateau. Snow on the passes is possible through early to mid-April and may require microspikes. By late April, conditions are generally clear and manageable.

What temperatures should I expect throughout the trek?

Temperature varies significantly by altitude and time of day. At Juphal and along the lower Bheri River corridor, daytime temperatures in spring and autumn are comfortable, ranging roughly 15 to 22 degrees Celsius. At Dho Tarap (4,080 m), days warm to around 8 to 15 degrees Celsius in peak season, but nights drop to near or below zero. At Numa La Base Camp (4,440 m) and Pelung Tang (4,600 m), overnight temperatures at high camp can fall to minus 10 to minus 15 degrees Celsius in October and lower in spring. On the pass summits themselves, wind chill can push the felt temperature well below what a thermometer reads. The swing between midday warmth and overnight cold at high camps often exceeds 25 degrees Celsius, so a flexible layering system is essential.

Can the trek be done during monsoon season?

The lower gorge approach below 3,000 meters receives significant monsoon rainfall from mid-June through early September, making trails slippery, muddy, and prone to leeches. However, the rain shadow effect above Dho Tarap means the high plateau receives far less precipitation than the rest of Nepal during the same period. Some experienced trekkers specifically visit in July and August for the absence of other visitors and the wildflower display at altitude. The practical issue is that domestic flights to Juphal face higher cancellation rates during monsoon months, and the approach sections remain challenging regardless of conditions higher up. For most trekkers, this season is best avoided unless you have significant flexibility in your schedule.

Is winter trekking possible?

December through February brings conditions that require experience well beyond recreational trekking. Overnight temperatures at high camps can drop to minus 20 to minus 25 degrees Celsius. The passes are snow-covered and may be impassable without winter mountaineering equipment. Teahouses in the upper villages typically close for the season after mid-November. The lower valley sections and Phoksundo Lake itself have been visited in winter by small groups with fully cold-weather equipped teams and no fixed schedules, but this is genuinely specialist territory.
Does the rain shadow affect conditions everywhere on the route?
The rain shadow effect increases progressively as you move north from Juphal toward the Tibetan Plateau. The lower Bheri gorge sections below 3,000 meters receive normal monsoon precipitation and support pine and juniper forests. Once you are in the wide valley above Nawarpani and heading toward Dho Tarap, the landscape shifts noticeably: drier, more exposed, and increasingly brown. The plateau above Dho Tarap is the heart of the rain shadow, and conditions there are fundamentally different from the lower approach even in the same season. This visual contrast between the lush gorge forests below and the dry Tibetan-style plateau above is one of the distinctive features of this particular route.

ARRIVAL AND VISAS

4 Qs

Do I need a visa to visit Nepal?

Most international travelers can obtain a Nepal tourist visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. The airport operates this service 24 hours a day. For 2026, the fees are USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, and USD 125 for 90 days. The visa is multiple-entry, meaning you can travel to Bhutan or India and return within the validity period.
To speed up the process, you can complete the online pre-arrival form on the Department of Immigration website before your flight. This generates a submission receipt with a barcode, which allows you to skip the kiosk queue at the airport and go directly to the payment counter. During peak trekking seasons (March to May and September to November), queues at immigration can take 30 to 60 minutes, so the pre-registration step is worth doing.
Required at the counter: a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity, one passport-sized photograph (or a digital photo taken at the airport kiosk), and the visa fee. Cash in USD is the most reliable payment method; card readers at Tribhuvan International Airport can be unreliable during peak periods. Do not bring USD bills dated before 2009 or visibly worn notes, as these are frequently rejected.
A small number of nationalities (including citizens of Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Afghanistan, Iraq, and a few others) cannot obtain a visa on arrival and must apply through a Nepalese diplomatic mission before traveling. Check your status with the Department of Immigration well in advance of booking.

How long a visa should I get for this trek?

The full Lower Dolpo Circuit package runs 18 days. When you add arrival and departure days, any buffer for domestic flight delays at Juphal, and potential adjustment time in Kathmandu, a 30-day tourist visa gives you comfortable coverage. Choosing a 15-day visa to save USD 20 is a false economy given the cost and planning that goes into a trek of this scope. Visa extensions are possible at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu at a cost of USD 45 for a minimum of 15 days, USD 3 per day after that, but dealing with an extension during or after a demanding remote trek is avoidable with the right visa at the start.

What permits does the trek require beyond the entry visa?

Two permits are required specifically for the trek, both processed by the trekking agency on your behalf before departure:
The Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Entry Permit is issued by the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu. The fee is USD 20 per person for the first week in the restricted zone, with additional days charged at USD 5 per day thereafter. This permit is required because the Dolpo region lies adjacent to the Tibetan border and is designated a restricted zone under Nepal's tourism access framework. All restricted area permits must be processed through a registered trekking agency. You cannot obtain this permit independently or at the border.
The Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit covers access to the national park, which the route crosses for a significant portion of the trek. The current fee is NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 25) for foreign nationals, plus 13 percent VAT. This can be arranged through the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or at the park gate.
All checkpoint registrations along the trail are handled by the guide. You should carry your original passport and copies of both permits throughout the trek, as checkpoints at Dunai and other points along the route require inspection.

Can I trek Lower Dolpo alone, without joining a group?

As of March 22, 2026, solo travelers can obtain restricted area permits for all 15 of Nepal's restricted districts, including Lower Dolpo. The previous requirement of a minimum group size of two trekkers was formally removed by the Department of Immigration. A single traveler can now apply for and receive a permit, provided they are accompanied by a licensed trekking guide and have booked through a registered agency.
The change in wording matters: "solo trekking" under the 2026 rules means solo permit eligibility, not unguided trekking. A licensed guide is still legally mandatory throughout the route, and the permit must be processed through a registered agency. What changed is that you no longer need to find a second traveler or join a fixed departure if you prefer to go on your own schedule.

TREK COST

4 Qs

What is the cost of the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek?

The 2026 package rate starts at USD 2,990 per person. This covers all domestic flights within Nepal, all permits, accommodation throughout (hotel in Kathmandu, teahouses and tented camps on the trek), full board meals from Juphal to Juphal, a licensed guide team with assistant guides and porters, safety equipment including a satellite communication device and supplemental oxygen, and all staff costs including fair wages and insurance for the crew.
Group discounts are available. The per-person rate reduces to USD 2,790 for groups of three to five, USD 2,590 for groups of six to ten, and USD 2,390 for groups of eleven to fifteen.

What costs are not included in the package price?

International flights to and from Nepal are not included. Nepal entry visa fees are not included. Items sold separately at teahouses, including hot showers (NPR 200 to 500), Wi-Fi access (NPR 100 to 300 per session), and device charging (NPR 100 to 300 per hour), are personal expenses. Personal trekking gear, medication, and snacks from Kathmandu are personal expenses. Gratuity for the guide, assistant guides, porter team, and cook is customary and expected. Standard industry guidelines are USD 8 to 15 per day for the lead guide, USD 5 to 10 for assistant guides, and USD 5 to 8 per day for porters. Travel insurance with helicopter evacuation coverage is mandatory and purchased separately.
A practical personal spending budget covering tips, city meals outside included breakfasts, teahouse extras, communication, and incidentals runs approximately USD 350 to 500 for the full 18 days.

Why does this trek cost more than other Nepal routes?

The cost structure reflects several factors specific to Dolpo. The Restricted Area Entry Permit carries a government-set fee. The domestic flights to Juphal, via Nepalgunj, involve two legs and small-aircraft operations with weather-dependent schedules, which require booking and contingency planning. The logistics of supplying a fully equipped tented camp for the high-altitude sections (where no teahouses operate) require more staff and equipment than teahouse-only routes. The porters and guides working in this region carry heavier loads over more demanding terrain than on standard routes. A well-supported, ethically operated Lower Dolpo package reflects these genuine costs rather than pricing inflated for remote-route prestige.

Is tipping mandatory?

Tipping is not contractually required, but it is the established norm in Nepal trekking and the crew will have factored it into their expectations. Guides, porters, and cooks work physically demanding jobs in remote conditions for extended periods, and the tip is a meaningful part of their income for that trip. Most groups pool tips and present them as a collective gesture on the final evening in Juphal. The amounts above are guidelines, not requirements.

WHO CAN TREK?

3 Qs

Is this trek suitable for beginners?

Lower Dolpo is classified as a moderate to strenuous trek and is not the ideal first Himalayan experience for someone who has never walked at altitude. The route spends several consecutive days above 4,000 meters, crosses two passes above 5,000 meters, includes one day covering 20 kilometers across mixed terrain, and operates in a genuinely remote environment with limited access to outside assistance. These are real factors, not marketing descriptions.
That said, motivated and fit beginners who prepare properly, including several months of progressive cardio training, loaded hiking practice, and honest pre-departure fitness assessment, can complete the circuit with the support of an experienced guide team. Prior experience on a high-altitude route like Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit is useful but not an absolute requirement. What matters more than experience is preparation quality and the willingness to communicate honestly with the guide about how you are feeling at altitude.

Is there a recommended age range?

There are no hard age restrictions. Trekkers in their 60s who are well-prepared and medically fit have completed this route. Younger trekkers in their teens with appropriate fitness levels and parental guidance have done it too. What matters is current physical condition, altitude tolerance history, and honest preparation rather than age as a number. Anyone with pre-existing cardiac, respiratory, or blood pressure conditions should consult their doctor specifically about high-altitude trekking before booking. The trek is not recommended for children under 12 due to the altitude, duration, and lack of medical infrastructure along the route.

Can people with no prior high-altitude experience do this trek?

Yes, with the right preparation and realistic expectations. Having no prior high-altitude experience means your body's response to the altitude is somewhat unpredictable, which is manageable with conservative pacing and a well-designed itinerary like this one. The built-in acclimatization day at Dho Tarap, the gradual altitude gain profile over the first week, and daily SpO2 monitoring by the guide provide a solid safety framework. The most important thing someone without altitude experience can do is prepare physically in the months before departure, be honest about symptoms when they arise, and avoid the temptation to push through discomfort on the assumption it will pass.

PHYSICAL FITNESS

4 Qs

What level of fitness is required?

You need to be able to walk for six to eight hours on consecutive days at altitude, over uneven and sometimes steep terrain, while carrying a daypack of around 5 to 8 kilograms. The main luggage goes with the porters, so you are not carrying full expedition weight, but you need genuine aerobic endurance and leg strength. Pass days add 800 to 1,000 meters of elevation gain on top of normal daily distance, which at this altitude feels significantly harder than the same effort at sea level. If you can comfortably hike for 6 hours with a loaded pack at home without significant soreness the next day, you are in the right territory to begin a focused preparation program.

How long before the trek should I start training?

A minimum of three months of focused preparation before departure is strongly recommended. More is better. The training does not need to be extreme, but it needs to be consistent and progressively demanding. Starting light and building is more effective than cramming intensive sessions into the final two weeks.

What kind of training is most useful?

Cardiovascular endurance is the foundation. Running, cycling, swimming, rowing, and stair work all build the aerobic base needed for sustained high-altitude walking. Aim for four to five sessions per week, with sessions getting progressively longer through the preparation period. Adding long hiking days with a weighted daypack, starting at 7 kilograms and building toward 10 to 12 kilograms, is the most direct simulation of what the trek demands. Weekend day hikes on varied terrain are particularly useful because they train the specific muscles used in descending, which is where knees take the most stress.
Leg and core strength training, including squats, lunges, step-ups, and planks, supports the descent sections and helps with balance on loose trail surfaces. Two or three strength sessions per week alongside the cardio base works well for most people.
Importantly: test your hiking boots by wearing them for at least 50 to 60 kilometers before the trek. Blisters from new boots are one of the most preventable and commonly experienced problems on longer routes. Find out what your feet do in those boots before the first day in Nepal.

Does previous altitude experience help?

Yes, meaningfully. If you have spent time above 3,500 meters before and know how your body responds, specifically whether you tend toward mild AMS symptoms like headache and reduced appetite or whether you acclimatize relatively smoothly, that self-knowledge is genuinely useful when planning and during the trek. It does not guarantee anything, since altitude response can vary between trips, but it removes at least one major unknown. If you have had serious altitude sickness on a previous trip, discuss this with your doctor and the trek team before booking.

TREK PREPARATION AND PACKING

5 Qs

What clothing layers are essential?

The temperature range across 18 days is wide: from roughly 30 degrees at Nepalgunj down near the Indian border to minus 15 degrees Celsius at overnight high camps. A three-layer system covers this range effectively.
A moisture-wicking base layer (merino wool or synthetic) keeps you dry during exertion. A mid-layer fleece or insulated long-sleeve provides warmth when stationary or on cold mornings. A waterproof and windproof outer shell with a hood handles rain and the strong pass-summit winds. A down jacket rated to minus 15 degrees Celsius is non-negotiable for high camps and mornings above 4,000 meters. Two pairs of quick-drying trekking pants, a warm hat, a sun hat, liner gloves, insulated gloves or mittens, and four to five pairs of trekking socks complete the clothing side. The rule is: pack for everything between a warm spring afternoon at 3,000 meters and a very cold pre-dawn on a 5,000-meter pass.

What sleeping bag should I bring?

A sleeping bag rated to minus 20 degrees Celsius is the minimum for the high-altitude camp sections of this trek. This is a hard floor, not a guideline. Temperatures at Numa La Base Camp and Pelung Tang can and do fall well below this in spring and autumn. A liner adds warmth and serves as a cleaner alternative to teahouse blankets on the lower sections. If you do not own a suitable bag, rental arrangements can be made in Kathmandu before departure.

What footwear is needed?

Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support and a sole rigid enough for rocky terrain are the most important single piece of kit on this trek. They need to be broken in properly before arrival. Do not bring new boots and expect to break them in on the trail. Camp sandals or lightweight shoes for teahouse evenings save your boots from unnecessary wear and your feet from unnecessary fatigue.

What electronics and power options should I plan for?

Electricity is absent or unreliable for most of the high-altitude section. A power bank with a minimum 20,000 mAh capacity covers a week of phone and camera charging in the field. A portable solar panel is helpful for recharging the power bank on sunny camp days. Headlamps with fresh spare batteries are essential; the pre-dawn starts on pass days require a reliable light source that cannot be improvised. At teahouses, device charging is available but costs NPR 100 to 300 per hour, and the power supply is not always consistent.

What should I bring from Kathmandu that cannot be found along the route?

Essentially everything beyond basic food. There are no shops beyond Dunai, so whatever you do not carry from Kathmandu is unavailable for the majority of the trek. Personal snacks, energy bars, nuts, dried fruit, electrolyte sachets, and powdered drinks should be bought in Kathmandu before departure. Medication, sun protection, lip balm, and any specialized dietary items are also Kathmandu purchases. Thamel has good gear shops, pharmacies, and a reasonable range of imported food items.

TREK ACCOMMODATION

3 Qs

What accommodation is available along the route?

The first two nights in Kathmandu are in a well-rated mid-range hotel in the Thamel area, with private bathrooms, hot water, and Wi-Fi. One night in Nepalgunj is in a clean, functional guesthouse. In the lower village sections of the trek, you stay in locally run teahouses with single or twin beds, foam mattresses, shared bathrooms, and common rooms heated by a wood-burning stove. Hot water is sometimes available from a wood-heated bucket system.
Above Dho Tarap, the team sets up tented camps. Each person gets a two-person expedition tent with a dry inner layer. Sleeping mats are provided at camp. A separate dining tent with folding table, chairs, and a kerosene or gas stove is set up at each camp location. A toilet tent with a collapsible frame is also erected. The cooking and dining tent is the warmest communal space at high camp and functions as the evening gathering point.

What are teahouses actually like on this route?

Teahouses in Lower Dolpo are simpler than those on the Everest or Annapurna corridors, which have been built up by decades of high-volume tourism. Rooms are basic but clean. Mattresses are functional. Common rooms with central stoves are warmer and more social than individual rooms. The food is straightforward and filling. Don't expect Wi-Fi above the lower villages, and don't count on hot showers as a given. The teahouse owners in Dunai, Tarakot, Laini, and Dho Tarap are accustomed to international trekkers and maintain an honest standard of cleanliness relative to the supply conditions they operate under.

Can I get a private room at teahouses?

Single-occupancy rooms are sometimes available at teahouses along the lower approach. Availability is limited and not guaranteed, particularly at smaller stops with fewer rooms. If a private room matters to you, this can sometimes be arranged with advance notice through the trekking agency, though it is subject to local availability and may carry an additional cost. At the tented camp sections, sleeping tents are typically two-person but can be configured as single-occupancy depending on group size.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

5 Qs

What is the most significant health risk on this trek?

Altitude sickness is the primary health concern, particularly above 4,000 meters where the itinerary spends several consecutive days. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) in its mild form, with symptoms including persistent headache, reduced appetite, disrupted sleep, and mild nausea, is common above 4,000 meters. It is not cause for immediate alarm, but it is the body's signal to slow down and hydrate rather than push forward. If symptoms persist through rest or worsen, the protocol is descent, not continuation.
High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), where fluid accumulates in the lungs, and High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), where swelling occurs in the brain, are the dangerous progressions of untreated AMS. Both require immediate descent and, in most cases, helicopter evacuation. The lead guide monitors SpO2 readings with a pulse oximeter morning and evening during high-altitude sections. Readings below 80 percent at rest are a concern. Below 70 percent is a medical emergency.

What medication helps with altitude sickness?

Acetazolamide (Diamox) is the most widely used medication for both preventing and treating AMS. It works by stimulating faster breathing, which increases blood oxygen saturation. It should be started one to two days before significant altitude gain and continued as directed. Common side effects include increased urination and occasional tingling in the hands, both of which are manageable. Consult your own doctor before the trip about whether Diamox is appropriate for you, the correct dosage, and any contraindications given your personal health history. Ibuprofen is useful for headache management at mild AMS levels. Neither medication should be used as a substitute for proper acclimatization or as a reason to ignore worsening symptoms.

Is helicopter evacuation available from the Lower Dolpo region?

Yes, helicopter rescue is available along the route, subject to weather conditions and suitable landing zones. Response time from the Dolpo region to Kathmandu can range from a few hours to a full day depending on weather windows. The cost of a helicopter evacuation from a remote high-altitude location to Kathmandu can run USD 4,000 to 7,000 for the flight alone, with hospital treatment adding considerably more. The lead guide carries a satellite communication device and handles all coordination in the event of an emergency. Comprehensive travel insurance with helicopter evacuation coverage is mandatory for all trekkers on this route, not optional.

What should my travel insurance cover?

At minimum, your policy must explicitly cover: high-altitude trekking or climbing to at least 5,500 meters (some policies cap at 4,000 meters, which would exclude the passes on this route entirely); emergency helicopter evacuation from remote areas; medical treatment including hospitalization for altitude sickness, injury, and illness; trip interruption and cancellation; and accommodation costs arising from domestic flight delays at Juphal.
Read the exclusions section of your policy carefully before purchasing. Some policies exclude pre-existing conditions unless specifically declared. Some exclude certain activities unless you purchase an adventure sports add-on. If you take any regular medication for cardiac, respiratory, or blood pressure conditions, your insurer should know before the policy is issued. Carry both a printed and a digital copy of the policy, and give the policy number and emergency contact to the lead guide before Day 4 of the trek.
Reputable providers with documented experience in Himalayan evacuation coverage include World Nomads, Global Rescue, IMG Global, and Battleface. Budget USD 150 to 300 for an 18-day high-altitude trek policy depending on your age and nationality.

What happens if I get sick or injured mid-trek?

The lead guide handles all initial assessment and emergency coordination. Daily SpO2 monitoring and regular health checks are part of the guide's standard routine throughout the trek. If a trekker develops serious altitude symptoms, injury, or illness that warrants early return, the guide coordinates helicopter evacuation through the satellite device, contacts the trekking agency in Kathmandu, and stays with the trekker until rescue or until safe descent is achieved. For non-emergency situations requiring early departure, the guide will escort the trekker back to the nearest appropriate exit point.

PRACTICAL MATTERS

5 Qs

Is there phone or internet signal on the trek?

Mobile signal is available in Dunai, the district headquarters, and at a few teahouses on the lower approach. Above Nawarpani, commercial mobile networks are largely absent through the high sections, including Dho Tarap, the pass camps, and Ringmo. The guide team carries a satellite communication device for emergency use. Wi-Fi is technically available at some teahouses in the lower villages, typically at a cost of NPR 100 to 300 per session, though connection speed and reliability are limited. Most trekkers find that the 10 to 12 days of genuine disconnection is one of the more valuable aspects of the experience, even if that takes an adjustment period.

What currency should I bring and where can I exchange money?

Nepal's currency is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). The most favorable exchange rates are at authorized money changers in Thamel, Kathmandu, rather than at the airport. Carry enough cash for personal teahouse expenses (showers, charging, drinks, extra snacks) for the full trekking duration, since there are no ATMs or banks beyond Dunai. For reference, a comfortable personal spending budget on the trail runs NPR 3,000 to 5,000 per day for extras. USD cash is also widely accepted in Kathmandu and can be exchanged in Nepalgunj, but beyond that point, NPR is the practical currency.

What language is spoken in the Dolpo region?

Nepali is the national language and is understood by most people in Dunai and the larger approach villages. In Dho Tarap, Ringmo, and the communities around Phoksundo Lake, the local Dolpo-Tibetan dialect is the primary language, with Nepali as a second language for many residents. The guides are fluent in both and serve as interpreters throughout. Learning a few basic Tibetan greetings before the trip, such as Tashi Delek for a general greeting and Thuji Che for thank you, is noticed and appreciated in the communities you pass through.

Can I buy or rent gear in Kathmandu if I arrive without everything?

Yes. Thamel in Kathmandu has numerous gear shops selling a mix of genuine and replica international brands. Waterproof jackets, down sleeping bags, trekking poles, base layers, and headlamps are all available for purchase or rental at reasonable prices. If you are planning to rent specific items like a minus 20 sleeping bag or a down jacket, the trekking company can assist with this before departure. Test any rented gear the day you pick it up, not the morning of the flight to Nepalgunj.

What is the tipping culture for the crew?

Tipping the guide team, porters, and cook is standard practice in Nepal trekking and forms an important part of their overall compensation for the trip. Typical amounts are USD 8 to 15 per day for the lead guide, USD 5 to 10 per day for assistant guides, and USD 5 to 8 per day for porters. Most groups collect tips into a shared pool and present them on the final evening in Juphal. This collective approach is both logistically simpler and more natural than distributing tips individually. The amount you leave reflects your appreciation for 18 days of work in genuinely demanding conditions.

TRANSPORTATION AND FLIGHTS

5 Qs

How do I get to the trekking start point?

The full transit chain involves three flights: your international arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu; a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (approximately one hour); and a second domestic flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal airstrip (approximately 30 to 35 minutes). All domestic flights are included in the package. The Nepalgunj to Juphal leg is operated by small propeller aircraft seating 9 to 19 passengers and is one of the more memorable mountain approaches in Nepal, landing on a sloped grass-and-gravel strip at 2,320 meters.

How reliable are the domestic flights to Juphal?

Weather-related delays and cancellations at Juphal are the most common logistics challenge in western Nepal. The airstrip operates under visual flight rules, and fog, wind, or low cloud can ground flights for hours or days at a time. Tara Air and Nepal Airlines operate the Nepalgunj to Juphal route, typically running morning departures only after 6 AM. The itinerary includes buffer days specifically to manage this risk. Trekkers who have visited Dolpo consistently report that some delay is typical, and occasionally waits of two to three days in Nepalgunj have occurred, particularly in early spring and late autumn. Comprehensive travel insurance covering accommodation costs during flight delays is recommended, and international departure bookings should include at least two days of post-trek buffer before an international flight.

Is there a road option to Dolpa instead of flying?

A road now connects Kathmandu to Dunai via the mid-hill highway through far western Nepal, but it is an extremely long overland journey, typically three to four days of rough driving from Kathmandu to the Dolpa district headquarters. The road quality is variable and the journey is physically demanding. For most international trekkers on a defined schedule, the flight via Nepalgunj to Juphal remains the practical standard approach, and it is what this package is built around.

What happens if flights are cancelled and I miss days of the trek?

The itinerary includes one buffer day at each end of the trek to absorb minor flight disruptions. If delays extend beyond this, the guide and agency work through options based on which sections of the route have already been completed and what remains feasible within your remaining time. The priority is safety and the best achievable version of the trek given the circumstances. In some cases, if the delay is significant, a helicopter transfer option can be arranged at additional cost to recover lost days. Travel insurance that explicitly covers this scenario is worth having before this discussion ever comes up.

How are transfers handled in Kathmandu?

All transfers between the airport, hotel, and permit offices in Kathmandu are handled by private vehicle arranged by the team. Journey times range from 20 to 45 minutes depending on traffic, which in Kathmandu can be unpredictable at peak hours. The arrival transfer is met at the terminal by a representative with your name. All city-side logistics from arrival to departure are coordinated by the local team.

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Cost Details

Price Includes

1. Arrival, City Logistics, and Accommodation

All airport transfers in Kathmandu using private vehicle with experienced driver
Meet and greet service at Tribhuvan International Airport on arrival
3 nights premium hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (twin-sharing, breakfast included)
Optional guided sightseeing in Kathmandu covering UNESCO-listed sites
All ground transportation related to expedition logistics

2. Domestic Flights

Round-trip flight: Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and return
Round-trip flight: Nepalgunj to Juphal and return
All domestic airport taxes and airline surcharges
Priority rebooking support during weather-related delays at Juphal airstrip

3. Permits and Legal Documentation

Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Entry Permit (issued by Department of Immigration)
Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit
Dolpa District entry and checkpoint fees
All government taxes and official documentation fees

4. Accommodation During Trek

Best available teahouse or lodge accommodation in villages along the route
Tented camp accommodation at high-altitude sections including Numa La base camp and Pelung Tang
Full camping setup: dining tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent, and sleeping tents
Foam sleeping mats at all tent camps

5. Meals (Full Board on Trek)

Three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, dinner) throughout all trekking days
Freshly cooked camp meals prepared by trained cook at high-altitude camps
Seasonal fruits and trail snacks during trekking hours
Hygienic food preparation following altitude nutrition guidelines

6. Professional Trekking Team

Government-licensed, experienced trekking leader and head guide
Assistant guides based on group size (one guide per 4 trekkers)
Porter team (one porter for every two trekkers, carrying up to 25 kg)
Full cook and kitchen support staff for camp sections
All staff salaries, insurance, meals, and accommodation throughout trek

7. Safety and Medical Support

Comprehensive first aid medical kit carried by the lead guide at all times
Pulse oximeter for daily SpO2 and pulse monitoring throughout high-altitude sections
Emergency oxygen cylinder for critical altitude sickness response
Satellite communication device for emergency coordination in no-signal zones
Coordination support for helicopter evacuation when required (covered by your insurance)

8. Equipment (Group Logistics)

High-quality sleeping bags rated for -20 degrees Celsius or better (on request)
Down jackets available on request for high-altitude sections
All group camping equipment: tents, dining furniture, kitchen gear, fuel
Waterproof storage bags for porter loads

9. Staff Welfare

Full insurance coverage for all guides, assistant guides, and porters
Fair wage guarantee and ethical employment standards throughout
Proper gear, boots, and equipment for all support staff

10. Taxes and Service Charges

All applicable government taxes and VAT
Company service charges with no hidden operational fees

Price Excludes

1. International Travel and Visa

International airfare to and from Nepal
Nepal entry visa fee (available on arrival at Kathmandu airport)

2. Personal Expenses

Tea, coffee, bottled drinks, and energy drinks beyond included meals
Personal snacks purchased at teahouses along the route
Hot shower fees at teahouses (typically NPR 200 to 500 per use)
Wi-Fi and device charging fees at teahouses
Laundry and personal hygiene services

3. Personal Climbing and Trekking Equipment

Personal hiking boots, trekking poles, and gaiters
Personal clothing, layering system, and rain gear
Headlamps, batteries, and personal electronics
Rental support for specific gear can be arranged in Kathmandu if required

4. Travel Insurance (Mandatory)

Comprehensive high-altitude travel insurance (mandatory for all trekkers)
Coverage must include helicopter emergency evacuation up to 5,500 meters
Medical treatment and trip interruption coverage

5. Tips and Gratuity

Tips for guides, porters, cook, and support staff (customary and appreciated)
Standard industry expectation: USD 8 to 15 per day for guides, USD 5 to 10 per day for porters

6. Unforeseen and Force Majeure Costs

Extra accommodation due to weather-related flight delays at Juphal or Nepalgunj
Early return costs due to personal illness or emergency
Natural disasters, landslides, strikes, or political disruptions

7. Optional Add-Ons

Extra hotel nights in Kathmandu before or after the trek
Helicopter return option from Phoksundo Lake or Juphal
Private room upgrades at teahouses where available
Gear rental charges for personal items

Meet Our Expert Guides

Shiva Kumar Shrestha

Managing Director & Senior Guide

20 years of experience

Deepak Gurung

Trekking Guide

12 years of experience

Ramsaran Shrestha

Senior Trekking Guide

19 years of experience

Meena Karki

Trekking Guide

13 years of experience

Prakash Gurung

Trekking Guide

8 years of experience

Ram Hari Dhamala

Trekking Guide

11 years of experience

Why Choose the Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek Over Other Nepal Routes