
Lower Dolpo Trek is one of the most beautiful, amazing and popular trekking destinations in Nepal. The main attraction of this trek is Shey- Phoksundo Lake, ancient Buddhist monasteries as well as the Tibetan plateau, and many more. This trek has become very famous among trekkers since the route opened in 1989. Trekking in Lower Dolpo offers you a remarkable and worthwhile experience of a lifetime.
Nepal Dream Path Treks start the lower Dolpo trek with a short flight to Jhupal from Nepalgunj. The trail passes through beautiful villages, deep Georges, and remote areas. The people of this region are still practicing the pre-Buddhist Bon Po religion. We get a chance to see endangered animals like snow leopards, Himalayan musk deer, himilayan thar, and many more. The trekkers have to pass two high passes: Numa La (5360 m), the highest point of the trek, and Baga La (5070 m). From these passes, you can enjoy the panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri range, Norbung Kang, and many other snow-covered mountains. We provide our trekkers with the best service making their trip joyful and unforgettable. At last from Phoksundo lake, you have to follow back with the beautiful Phoksindo river on the way we passing charming village then we rich to Juphal. The next day we will fly back to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj.
Lower Dolpo Trek Info

Accommodation in Lower Dolpo Trek
Lower Dolpo trek is our camping trek. It means our accommodation during the trek is tented camps. Since Lower Dolpo is remote, teahouses are very few or rare. The team of Nepal Dream Path takes all necessary equipment of the best quality during the Lower Dolpo trek.
Meals in Lower Dolpo Trek

Drinking water in Lower Dolpo Trek
Throughout the trek, we serve you a full 3-course meal (breakfast, lunch, dinner). Our professional cook accompanies us and prepares dishes for us. The meals are healthy and provide energy for trekking. We serve hot tea/coffee, roti (bread), eggs, soups, etc. during the trek.
Throughout the trek, we provide you with boiled water for drinking. You can use water purification tablets or treatment for safety. It is good to have your water bottle with you. It is very necessary to stay hydrated during the trek.
Lower Dolpo Trek Required Permits
We require the following permits for the Lower Dolpo trek:
- Lower Dolpo permit: USD 20 per person/week
- Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit: NPR 3000
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
How long is the Lower Dolpo Trek?
Our Lower Dolpo trek is 19 days long.
How are the phone and internet networks in the Lower Dolpo Trek?
As stated earlier, Lower Dolpo is a remote region. Hence, it is the least developed. So, only in a few places, there is a phone and internet network. And the networks may or may not be stable. For charging electronic devices, bring a powerful power bank or a solar power bank with you. For emergencies, we have a satellite phone facility.
What is the best way to get to Lower Dolpo Trek?
The best way to get to Lower Dolpo Trek is via the airways. Lower Dolpo is very remote and far from the capital Kathmandu. So, we take a flight to Nepalgunj first. Then, from Nepalgunj, we take another flight to Juphal from where our trek journey begins. Another alternative way is via roadways. But, the trek duration becomes longer.
What is the starting and ending point of the Lower Dolpo Trek?
The starting and ending points are both Juphal for the Lower Dolpo Trek.
Which is the best season for Lower Dolpo Trek?
The lower Dolpo trek is best during the months of May to October. The annual rainfall in Lower Dolpo is less than 50mm which makes this region suitable to trek in the rainy season as well.
Can I do the Lower Dolpo Trek during the rainy and winter seasons?
There is less rainfall in the Lower Dolpo region making it a rain-shadow area. So, during the rainy season also it is easy to trek as there won’t be an issue of slippery or muddy trails. But, during the winter season, the Dolpo region remains closed from November to April as it receives heavy snowfall. It makes it impossible to trek during the winter season.
Do I need Travel Insurance for Lower Dolpo Trek?
Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. If you are traveling outside the country, travel insurance is not to be missed. Dolpo is a remote region and lacks all kinds of facilities. So, make sure your travel insurance covers all essential emergencies (medical, evacuations), loss of belongings, flight cancelations, and high altitudes. Do get travel insurance from a reputed company.
Are guides compulsory for Lower Dolpo Trek?
Lower Dolpo is a remote and less traveled region. And as per the law of Nepal, requires at least 2 trekkers to trek in this region. It means you can’t do solo traveling. Hence, the guide is compulsory. The region is new to many trekkers. For the safety of the trekkers too, it is best to have a guide with you. The guides are experienced and well-known about the entire Dolpo region. In case of any emergencies and for necessary guidelines, guides are your protector.
What is the porter’s luggage limitation during Lower Dolpo Trek?
The porter’s luggage limitation during the Lower Dolpo trek is up to a maximum of 15 kg per trekker.
How difficult is Lower Dolpo Trek?
The lower Dolpo trek is moderately difficult. But, many trekkers might find it strenuous as well. The long trek duration, remote & rough trail, lack of facilities, and high elevations make this trek more demanding for trekkers.
What should we do before participating in the Lower Dolpo Trek?
It is best to participate in some physical training and exercises, and day hikes at high elevations before participating in the Lower Dolpo Trek. It is very essential to be both physically and mentally fit. So, maintain a healthy diet and stress less. Take the necessary health check-ups and consult a doctor for proper medication and health tips.

Why acclimatization rest is necessary during Lower Dolpo Trek?
Acclimatization rest is necessary to get used to the surrounding environment and avoid altitude sickness. The body gets proper rest which further helps trekkers to trek easily the next day. Lower Dolpo trek is very demanding and taking acclimatization rest is beneficial. Dho Tarap and Shey Phoksundo Lake are our acclimatization rest spots during Lower Dolpo Trek.
What are the symptoms and preventions of Altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness is a condition that can occur when you travel to high elevations too fast and your body cannot adjust to the changes in pressure and lack of oxygen.
Symptoms of Altitude Sickness
- Headache: throbbing or continuous headache
- Vomiting: feel like puking due to sickness in the stomach
- Fatigue: the body feels very tired and weak
- Dizziness: feeling difficulty standing up or unsteady
- Shortness of breath: difficulty in breathing
- Insomnia: difficulty in sleeping
- Loss of appetite: not feeling hungry
- Rapid pulse: A faster heartbeat than normal
- Hallucination: false perception (Extreme case of altitude sickness)
- Unconsciousness: not able to be self-aware (Extreme case of altitude sickness)
Preventive Guidelines
- Immediate descent: If feels uneasy immediately inform a guide and descent immediately
- Gradual ascent: Allow your body to gradually acclimate to the changes in altitude by ascending slowly
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
- Avoid alcohol & smoking: Limit alcohol consumption and stay away from dehydrating drinks and cigarettes
- Avoid salty foods: Limit salt consumption
- Proper nutrition: Eat a healthy diet to support your body
- Acclimatization: Allow time for acclimatization and take proper acclimatization rests
- Medications: Consult with a doctor and consider taking a medication that can help with acclimatization
- Rest: Take it easy and get plenty of rest to give your body time to adjust to the altitude

Equipment list for Lower Dolpo Trek
Backpack: A good quality, comfortable backpack to carry all your gear
Footwear: Proper hiking boots or shoes with good support and grip.
Clothing: Lightweight Layered clothing that can be adjusted according to weather conditions (Windcheater jacket, Thermals, Down Jacket, Fleece, Long sleeve shirts, Gloves, Towels, Inner garments, Trekking pants, Trousers, Shorts, & Socks)
Sleeping bag: lightweight sleeping bag for warmth & comfortable sleep
Headlamp or flashlight: A reliable source of light for evening and early morning hours
First aid kit: A compact, portable first aid kit with essentials like pain relievers, bandages, antiseptics, prescribed medicines, altitude sickness medicine
Water bottles: Durable & Leak-proof for staying hydrated
Navigation tools: A map and compass, or a GPS device to help navigate the trail.
Food: High-energy, non-perishable food items such as nuts, dried fruit, and energy bars
Hats, Sunglasses, and sunscreen: Protection from the sun’s harmful rays
Reusable goods: Bags, Spoon, Cup, Plate, etc. for easy use
Personal Hygiene & Toiletries: To stay clean and hygienic (Skincare products, lip balm, wipes, Tissues, Soap, Shampoo, Toothbrush, Toothpaste)
Extra Accessories: Water Purifying kits, Water filters, Insulated cup/flask, Binoculars, Travel Documents, Pocket knife, Sewing kit, Cash, Extra batteries, Power bank, Big Waterproof Disposable Bags, Emergency whistle for safety or help
Camping Equipment: tents (for kitchen, dining sleeping, & toilets), gas stove, cooking utensils, and dining chairs & tables [Arrange by Nepal Dream Path]
Note: Bring necessary clothes & equipment from home. Else, you can purchase or hire equipment and clothes in Kathmandu. Customize the equipment checklist as per your preference.
Trip Facts
Duration: 19 Days
Minimum Participants: 2
Travel Type: Adventurous
Accommodation Camping Trek
Meals: Full board on trek, B&B Plan in city
Transportation: private vehicle and flight
Highlights of Lower Dolpo Trek
Two highest passes Numa La Pass & Baga La Pass
Varied and beautiful landscapes, high alpine pastures
Deepest lake-Shey Phoksundo
Diverse flora and fauna of Shey Phoksundo National Park
Buddhist Bon religion & ancient Buddhist monasteries
Panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri range, Norbung Kang, & other snow-covered mountains