The Lower Dolpo Trekking is an incredibly beautiful adventure to one of the most remote and culturally rich regions in Nepal. The region is located in the far western part of the country. You will get a rare opportunity to experience wonderful landscapes, ancient mountain culture, and unique wildlife within the rugged beauty of the Shey Phoksundo National Park.

Unlike the more commercial trekking routes such as Everest and Annapurna, Lower Dolpo remains untouched by mass tourism, making it ideal for adventurers seeking solitude, authenticity, and dramatic scenery.

The trek typically begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, followed by another short flight to Juphal, the starting point of the trek. From Juphal, the trail winds through deep river gorges, pine and juniper forests, arid valleys, and high mountain passes, offering spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, barren cliffs, and the mesmerizing Phoksundo Lake, Nepal’s deepest and arguably most beautiful lake.

A major cultural highlight of the Lower Dolpo Trekking is the opportunity to encounter the Bonpo and Tibetan Buddhist traditions that dominate the region. Trekkers can visit ancient monasteries such as Shey Gompa and observe traditional lifestyles that have remained largely unchanged for centuries.

What is the Best Time for Trekking to Lower Dolpo?

The ideal time to undertake the Lower Dolpo Trek is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to early November) seasons.

Spring (April–June): This is one of the best periods for trekking in Dolpo, with stable weather, mild temperatures, and blooming rhododendrons and alpine flowers. The skies are generally clear, offering uninterrupted mountain views.

Autumn (September–early November): After the monsoon rains, autumn brings crisp air, crystal-clear skies, and excellent visibility of the surrounding peaks and landscapes. Temperatures are pleasant during the day, though it can get cold at higher altitudes during the night.

The summer monsoon (July–August) generally brings heavy rains across most parts of Nepal, but Dolpo lies in the Himalayan rain shadow, so it receives significantly less rainfall. Some trekkers choose to visit Dolpo in summer, particularly because the trails are less crowded during this period. However, occasional rain can still make trails slippery and crossings more challenging.

Winter (December–February) is typically not recommended for Lower Dolpo trekking due to harsh cold, heavy snowfall at high passes, and the closure of many mountain trails.

How difficult is Lower Dolpo Trekking?

The Lower Dolpo Trek is considered moderately difficult to challenging, depending on the route and pace of the trek. Several factors contribute to the trek’s level of difficulty:

Remote terrain: The trek takes place in a very isolated part of Nepal, with limited infrastructure and basic facilities. Accommodation is generally in tents or simple tea houses, and trekkers must be self-sufficient.

Altitude: The trek involves crossing high passes such as Numa La Pass (5,190 m) and Bagala Pass (5,170 m). While the risk of acute mountain sickness (AMS) is lower than on some higher-altitude treks, proper acclimatization is still essential.

Duration: The trek usually takes 18 days, depending on the itinerary, with long trekking days of 6-8 hours of walking, often over rugged and uneven terrain.

Physical demands: The trail includes steep ascents and descents, river crossings, and exposed sections. A good level of fitness and stamina is required to cope with the sustained physical effort.

Preparation for Lower Dolpo Trek

To enjoy a safe and rewarding Lower Dolpo experience, careful preparation is vital.

Physical fitness
It is important to start a fitness routine at least 2-3 months before your trek. Regular cardio exercises (hiking, running, cycling, swimming etc.), strength training, and long walks carrying a loaded backpack will help build the endurance required for this trek.

Permits
Lower Dolpo is a restricted area, so you will need a Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit and a Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit. We will take care of all the permits and logistics necessary for the trek.