Government Regd. No. 116812/070/071 | Tourism License No. 1650/070

Lower Dolpo Trek- 18 Days

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About Lower Dolpo Trek

  • 18 Days
  • Trip Grade: Strenuous
  • Nepal
  • Altitude: 5350m/17552ft
  • Spring/Autumn
  • Group Size : Min 2 Pax
  • Trek Style: Camping
  • Transport: Domestic Air / Land Transportation
  • Region: Dolpa

Trip Highlights

  • An adventurous trek to the remote Himalayan region of Nepal
  • Beautiful view of tranquil Phoksundo Lake and sparkling waterfall
  • Scenic Mountain flight to & from Juphal
  • Cross challenging passes of Kang La (5360m), Saldang La (5200m), and Jeng La (5090m)
  • Experience stunning Tibetan Buddhist & Bon Po Culture

Dolpo Region Trek is one of the most isolated and least developed areas to consider trekking in Nepal. Dolpo is situated on the Tibetan plateau and the Dhaulagiri Himalayan range and is the highest inhabited land in western Nepal. Dolpo, a land beyond the Himalayas, captures mysterious views of ancient monasteries, blue sheep, and snow leopards. Dolpo region has been strictly off limits until 1990, which has helped the traditions and ways of life to remain intact for decades. Dolpo has gained an immense attention since the first trek which was organized by a British tour operator in 1990. Since the release of Peter Matthiessen’s book “The Snow Leopard” and David Snellgrove’s “Himalayan Pilgrimage” has contributed significantly to highlight and popularize this region.

The Lower Dolpo Trek too offers an outstanding trekking experience in the remote western region of Nepal which requires special permits to enter. It is a moderate trek with a maximum elevation of just 5230 m at Numa La. The main attractions of this trek are the lively local communities, the tranquil waters of Phoksundo Lake, believed to be the manifestation of a female deity Tara, (the deepest lake of Nepal) and the snowed capped Himalayan peaks. The trek passes through Shey-Phosundo National Park with spectacular mountain scenery, Buddhist Monasteries, and yak caravans. Legend says that it is one of the “hidden valleys” created by Guru Rinpoche as a refuge for devout Buddhists in troubled times. As we trek through the heart of Dolpo we encounter both the amazing scenery and heart touching communities. From Magar villages at Dhaulagiri to Bhotia fortress and Gompas, this trek shows the beautiful landscapes of Nepal along with the diverse culture it holds within it. The hills here are sparsely populated which makes them very peaceful and quiet.

Lower Dolpo Trek- 18 Days Itinerary

Day 1:Arrival in Kathmandu (1350m/4429ft)

Welcome to the land of Himalaya at 13m. You will be warmly welcomed by the mountains and our company representative will be standing with your name card at the arrival terminal with a beautiful smile. You will be escorted to your hotel and you will be provided with all the detailed information about your program. Overnight stay at Hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 2:Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation

On you second day in Nepal you will start your morning after breakfast and head toward Pashuapthinath Temple one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage places. Then on to Boudhanath & Swaymnbhunath Stupa (UNESCO sites). These two stupas are sacred pilgrimage sites for Buddhist people. Your guide will provide you details about the trek and if you have any query regarding the trek then you can ask your guide. Overnight stay at Hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 3:Kathmandu – Nepalgunj Fly (150m/492ft)

It’s a 1 hour flight this morning to Nepalgunj a border town near the India-Nepal border located in the Terai lowlands area. The rest of your day will be spent sightseeing around the local bazaar by horse and cart. The Bageshowri Temple is also very popular and worth visiting in the early evening. Overnight stay at Hotel in Nepalgunj.

Day 4: Fly to Jhupal (2320m/7611ft) and trek to Dunai (2850m/9,348ft)2-3 hrs

A 35-minute flight takes us to Jhupal. An incredible mountain flight which takes us over mountain ridges and valleys with majestic mountains as a backdrop. Jhupal is a small village with a small airstrip amongst the mountains and hills. From here we trek for a few hours until we reach Dunai, the district headquarters of the Dolpo district. Overnight stay at Tented Camp in Dunai.

Day 5:Trek to Tarakot (2543m/8343ft) 4 hrs

Leaving Dunai this morning the trail follows along the Thuli Bheri River and we can start to appreciate the majestic beauty of this region. The trail is a bit rough and rocky in some places as road service has not yet reached this region but this makes the journey ever more enjoyable for those that enjoy remote travel. Overnight stay at Tented Camp in Tarakot.

Day 6:Trek to Laini (3160m/10367ft) 5 hrs

From Tarakot we ascend gradually through many local villages and Buddhist Monasteries. We cross several suspension bridges on Tarap Tsu River. After a few ups and downs, descend to reach our overnight camp at Laini. Overnight stay at Tented Camp in Laini.

Day 7:Trek to Nawarpani (3545m/11630ft) 5-6 hrs

After breakfast, continue our walk up to the gorge of Tarap River on a trial built on steep slopes. We will have a mesmerizing view of different mountains and valleys. Overnight stay at Tented Camp in Nawarpani.

Day 8:Trek to Dho Tarap (4090m/13418ft) 5 hrs

The landscape changes today as we approach a small settlement nestled between huge mountains. There is a Buddhist Monastery in Tarap which is predominantly Tibetan. The women of this region wear traditional clothing, dark skirts with colorful aprons woven from yak wool with shell bracelets in the Tibetan tradition. Overnight stay at Tented Camp in Dho Tarap.

Day 9: Acclimatization at Dho Tarap

Today we have a rest day in Tarap for acclimatization. This is a wonderful opportunity to explore the area and spend time with the locals. Overnight stay at Tented Camp in Dho Tarap.

Day 10:Trek to Numa La Base Camp (4440m/14566ft ) 5 hrs

On our way today we pass the “Crystal Mountain School” which is funded by a French NGO and is educating the children of the region. A further 1 hour of trekking takes us to Numa La Base Camp (4440m/14566ft ) where there is a monastery for us to explore. Overnight stay at Tented Camp in Numa La Base Camp.

Day 11:Cross Numa La Pass (5190m17027ft) and camp at Pelung Tang 6 hrs

It’s a tough day of trekking today and we make an early start so that we can cross the pass before the weather deteriorates in the afternoon. It’s a long and strenuous climb but from the top we can get incredible panoramic views as far as Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Manaslu and Kanjorowa (6883m). Overnight stay at Tented Camp in Pelung Tang .

Day 12:Cross Baga La Pass (5070m/16633ft) and camp at Dajok Tang 6 hrs

Today we cross another pass and it’s another early start. 2 hours of trekking has us at high camp and from there it’s only another hour to the pass. From the pass we again have panoramic views of Kanijirowa and other peaks. Overnight stay at Tented Camp in Dajok Tang.

Day 13:Trek to Ringmo (3600m/11811ft) 4 hrs

Today is quite a long trek but easier as it’s mostly a descent. We trek past Yak Kharka and Maduwa Khola where the trail is carved out from the rocks. We then pass through thick pine forest passing by some beautiful waterfalls before reaching Ringmo. Overnight stay at Tented Camp in Ringmo.

Day 14:Rest day and trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake (3620m/11876ft)

From Ringmo we walk to Shey Phoksundo Lake. This is the deepest lake in Nepal and it’s pristine beauty is a sight to behold. Today we will spend the day exploring the area adjacent to the lake. This area was where the famous movie “Caravan” was filmed. You will have the chance to meet the local people and learn about their Buddhist and Bon traditions. Overnight stay at Tented Camp in Ringmo.

Day 15:Trek to Shyanta (2520m/8267ft) 6 hrs

Trek downhill to Chepka. From Chepka the trail follows the massive overhanging rock. On the way we will encounter many important medicinal mineral which is believed to cure almost anything in this area. The route then passes through the villages, before climbing to Shyanta.Again today is a day of mostly descent on our way to Shyanta.Overnight at a tented camp. Overnight stay at Tented Camp in Shyanta.

Day 16: Trek to Juphal (2475m/8120ft) 5 hrs

The final leg of our trek sees us at Juphal which was the starting point and is the ending point for our trek. Following the trail gently sloping upwards, we march towards Juphal via Sulighat. We have the chance to relax in our guesthouse after our long trek. Overnight stay at Tented Camp in Juphal

Day 17:Fly to Nepalgunj and connect flight to Kathmandu

We have a transit day today. An early morning mountain flight sees us at Nepalgunj from where we take another flight to Kathmandu. Don’t forget the savor the incredible mountain view from your flight. Upon arrival at Kathmandu transfer to Hotel. Later in the evening, a farewell dinner will be served in a Traditional Nepali Restaurant where you will be able to enjoy authentic cuisine with a brief cultural program as a celebration of your completed trek. Overnight stay at Hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 18:Departure from TIA, “Farewell!”

Your journey in Nepal comes to an end today! Our representative will escort you to the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight. On your way to home, you have plenty of time to plan for your next adventure tour our wonderful Himalayan country.

Inclusion

  • All transportation as per itinerary including airport transfers
  • 3 nights accommodation whilst in Kathmandu (as requirements with various categories as stated) on BB basis.
  • 1 night accommodation in Nepalgunj
  • 1 night in Jhupal and 1 night in Dunai
  • Tented camp during your trekking
  • Mountain flights and local flights
  • All your standard Meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trek.
  • Welcome dinner and farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
  • One day sightseeing in Kathmandu (Pashupatinath, Bouddhnath and Durbar Square).
  • Accommodation in the best available Lodges, Guesthouses during the trek (on twin share basis).
  • A local English speaking Government Guide during the trek.
  • The required number of staff and Porters to carry your luggage during the trek.
  • Food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, medicine and transportation for all trekking/tour staff.
  • Dolpo National Park fees, TIMS (Trekker Information Management System) and other necessary permits.
  • Trekking equipment i.e.- down Jacket, sleeping bag and duffel/kit bag and trekking pole (which needs to be returned after the trek.)
  • First aid medical kit.
  • Official expenses.

Exclusion

  • Lunch and dinner whilst in Kathmandu.
  • Snacks, soft drinks, alcoholic drinks, water and personal items.
  • Your travel insurance (compulsory). This must include helicopter rescue
  • International airfare and airport departure tax.
  • International airfare and airport departure tax
  • Nepal entry visa fee (US$ 30 per person) You can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport Kathmandu for either 30 days or 90 days from date of issue. You will need to have currency of either USD, AUD or EU in cash to pay for your visa.
  • Any extra expenses arising out of various/unforeseen situations like natural calamities, landslides, political disturbances, strikes, changes in Government regulations, etc that is beyond our control.
  • Wifi access fees in lodges while trekking.
  • Fees for recharging of mobile phones at lodges while trekking.
  • Lodge fees for hot showers, towels, laundry or other services.
  • Personal trekking gear.
  • Tips for trekking staff and driver. (which is not mandatory but highly appreciated).
  • Rescue, Repatriation, Medicines, Medical Tests and Hospitalization expenses. (These should be covered by your travel insurance provider)
  • Any other expenses which are not mentioned on Price Inclusion section.
Map

FAQ

What is Acclimatization? Is it important to acclimitized?

To enable all trekking & expedition members to acclimatize well and hence maximize their chances of success, our trekking & expedition programs are prepared with sufficient time for acclimatization. Adaptation to the altitude takes time and there can be no short-cuts, even if supplementary oxygen is used in the final stages. The atmospheric pressure at the base camp is half of that at the sea level. A thorough program of acclimatization is built into the itinerary which consists of regulated height ascents, followed by descents and rests before the final ascent to the summit. Yes it is very important for all trekkers and climbers because this will prevent the climbers to get rid from altitude sickness.

What kind of personal first aid should i carry while trekking or Expedition in Nepal?

Although our guides from Great Nepal Treks carry first aid medical kit, it is better to carry a supply of first aid items for your own personal use according to your health conditions. Here are the list of some general as well as some special medications you may require:
– Antiseptic cream (Betadine)
– Sunblock SPF 30+
– Throat lozenges
– Painkillers and anti-inflammatory such as Aspirin, Paracetamol, Ibuprofen etc.
– Band-aids, bandage, compression bandage and ‘Second Skin’ for blisters
– Re-hydration salts. (Trioral, Electrobin, Oral Rehydrating Salt)
– Dextrose glucose tablets
– Water treatment tablets
– Your prescription medications
– Antibiotics for longer climbing and expedition style trips

Does high altitude effect and benefits?

You will be affected by high altitude problems if it is your fist trip at a high altitude. The altitude has some important beneficial effects on the human body and your trips have been designed to enable these. Please familiarize yourself with the information on AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) and understand how to avoid it and read on benefits of high altitude and take advantage of these to improve your body’s metabolism.

What is Acute Mountain Sickness(AMS)

Altitude sickness is the reaction of the body adjusting to decreasing amounts of oxygen. The high altitude slowly decreases the flow of oxygen means the higher you climb, the flow of oxygen is very thin resulting the malfunction of body. Altitude sickness most commonly occurs from above 2,800 meters (9,200ft) but this is different for everyone – there is simply no way of knowing your own susceptibility prior to being at altitude thus it is vital for you to monitor your own health. AMS occurs when the body is unable to adopt at the higher altitude having less amount of oxygen. At an altitude of 5490m (18000 ft.), the oxygen availability becomes just the half of the availability at sea level. While only a third of oxygen is available at the summit of Mt. Everest. Symptoms may be mild and subside/go away after a day’s rest, or if it is ignored it could lead to death.

What are the symptoms of AMS?

Symptoms can appear within 1-2 hours although most often appear 6-10 hours after ascent and generally subside in 1-2 days as the body adjusts to altitude. They may reappear as you continue to go higher. Symptoms of AMS usually occur gradually and can be one or a combination of the following:
• Headache: Due to the less amount of oxygen in air, the blood influences the blood vessels to spread wide in order to supply more oxygen to the brain and which cause them to show the early symptom of AMS.
• Dopiness: The trekkers or climbers feel very sleepy but could not.
• Shortness of breath: The breathing pattern changes as the breathing becomes faster and deeper than normal in order to get enough oxygen and rapid pulse
• Loss of appetite and nausea: Despite of physical exercise, the trekkers don’t have an appetite to eat.

What are the Life threatening forms of AMS?

High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE)
If one accumulates of fluid in the lungs and mild fever then, there is a chance of High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE). The filling of fluid in the lungs is Pulmonary Edema. The fluid blocks the passage of fresh oxygen to get into the lungs which causes the shortage of oxygen. Though the exact reason for the HAPE has not been identified, scientists think that pressure of blood vessel around the lungs is directly proportional to the altitude. As a result the smaller blood vessels leak allowing the fluid to escape to the lungs. The treatment for the HAPE victims is to give the oxygen at the rate of 4 liters a minute, using Portable Altitude Chamber (PAC). In case of unavailability of PAC bag or oxygen, one is taken down to the low altitude which is the only way of life-saving. HAPE can also lead to unconsciousness which may also results to death in a short period of time.

High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE)
HACE is the accumulation of fluid in the brain due of the swollen blood vessels to the brain. HACE is also seen within a couple of hours and can send the patient to coma and take his/her life in just few hours likewise to HAPE. The excessive flow of blood to the brain due to the low-level oxygen causes vasodilation which eventually leads to leakage of blood vessels to the brain. A 4 to 8mg of dexamethasone is given as a first dose to those who suffer from such sickness and then 4mg Diamox is given an every six hours gap. Similarly, 2-4 liters/minute oxygen is given and one is taken to down if it is necessary.

What are the Symptoms of HAPE?

Breathlessness
– A dry cough, developing to a wet one with blood-tinged discharge or saliva
– Tightness in the chest & blueness/darkness of face, lips & tongue
– Low fever up to 38°C/100°F
– Severe fatigue, progressing to coma

What are the Symptoms of HACE?

– Severe headache symptoms not relieved by painkillers or lying down
– Confusion, disorientation & drowsiness
– Nausea/vomiting
– Loss of balance or coordination
– Blurred or double vision/retinal hemorrhage

How to Prevent Altitude Sickness?

Certain medical conditions (such as respiratory disease) or medications (such as sleeping pills) can increase the risk of altitude sickness – it is important that you inform your guide of any medical conditions or medications before ascending to altitude. You can help your body to acclimatize and avoid altitude sickness by:
– Avoiding alcohol, tobacco and substances that can interfere with good delivery of oxygen to the body or cause dehydration
– Eating small, frequent meals high in carbohydrates
– Drinking plenty of water – the test of sufficient amount of water intake is ability to urinate colorless urine
– Taking it easy or have a rest. Walk at a slower pace than you would at sea level and avoid over-exertion
– Climb the mountain gradually and stop for a day or two of rest for every 600m/2000ft above 2,400m/8000ft
– Climb high but Sleep at a lower altitude if possible
– Learn how to recognize early symptoms of mountain sickness
Since our Guides from Great Nepal Treks are very professional and well trained about altitude sickness, they will guide you during your trekking and expedition activities in Nepal.

What are the basic treatment of Altitude sickness?

Most travelers are able to successfully acclimatize by following the previously mentioned guidelines. However, there are instances where medical treatment is required. Ultimately, the best treatment for acute mountain sickness (AMS) is to descend to a lower altitude and rest. Early diagnosis is important. Acute mountain sickness is easier to treat in the early stages. The guide will monitor you all the time for symptoms and will pace you appropriately to minimize your exposure to AMS.Cooperating with the guide and reporting if any of the above-described symptoms are seen allows your guide to undertaking appropriate and timely action to minimize your exposure to AMS. Sufficient time for acclimatization (After 3000 meters) is also another method to minimize AMS. Following precautions can be done in order to get rid of AMS:
Don’t ascent up rapidly.
• Never use alcohol, sleeping pills and smoking.
• Drink more fluid 3-4 liters a day, clean boiled water / tea / coffee / soup / juice etc.
• Climb high and sleep low.
• Don’t go trekking alone, take guide/porter.
• Follow the advice from your guide, hotel, local people, guidebook.
• Descent if mild symptoms rapidly getting worse.
• Never leave or descent sick person along.
• Avoid getting cold.
• Take an easy and comfortable trekking route even if it is longer.
• Sleep more than normal.
Your Guide will carry some medications in First Aid Kit and may suggest for medication such as Ibuprofen, Paracetamol, combination of them or specific AMS medication. Standard and effective medication for prevention of AMS is Acetazolamide (Diamox) and it may be given to help improve breathing and reduce mild symptoms. This drug can cause increased urination. Ensure you drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcohol when taking this drug.With severe cases of AMS, our guide will contact our office in Kathmandu and arrange your evacuation by helicopter. Before we accept you on the trek we will require that you purchase health and travel insurance including helicopter rescue and hospitalization.

How GNTE handle you during the case of emergency?

You never know when the unexpected situation comes and put you in hearse condition whether you are professional or beginners. Our professional guides do their best to make you well with first aid support. If the situation goes worse, you will be evacuated by Helicopter. You are entirely liable for all the expenses incurred in evacuation. So, before coming to Nepal, please make your travel insurance. Ask your guide to arrange a runner to the nearest communication point and inform office about requirement of a helicopter. For evacuation, we require the name of the sick person and the exact location from where helicopter can airlift you. You should not leave the place after calling Helicopter for evacuation though you are feeling better than before.

How to get safe drinking water during trekking and Expedition in Nepal?

On the trek, there is a facility of purchasing safe drinking water in teahouses.It is better if you carry the water purifying pills on your own. On camping trek, the water will be treated with Potassium permanganate or Iodine. On the trail, water from the streams is safe to drink, but better not to use it directly for drinking.

Are we safe with Great Nepal Treks during our trekking or expedition journey?

Security and a safe journey is our core objective of trekking. Our guide holds licenses issued by the Nepal Government and our staffs are local, honest, kind and genuine. But we also insist you to take care of your own personal belongings. If you are on ‘camping trek’ please take your main bag inside the tent once you reach campsite and put all bags and belongings in the middle of the tent when you feel sleepy. Your guide assigns a Sherpa on turn wise basis to guard the campsite throughout the night. If you are on ‘Tea house arrangement, never leave your baggage unattended and keep your lodge room locked when you go out. Feel safe since you are in the hands of ethical trekking company in Nepal.