Trip overview
Lower Dolpo Trek – Trip to Phoksundo Lake
The Lower Dolpo Trek is one of the most wonderful trekking adventures in Nepal, offering trekkers a chance to experience the unique natural and cultural beauty of this remote region. During the trek, you will walk through beautiful pine and juniper forests, cross scenic valleys and waterfalls, visit ancient monasteries, and enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, wild landscapes, and pristine rivers.
Trekkers enter the magnificent Shey Phoksundo National Park through charming villages, eventually reaching the stunning Phoksundo Lake—a jewel of the region surrounded by dramatic cliffs and serene blue waters. From here, you can enjoy a spectacular view of Mt. Kanjiroba. The park is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including blue sheep, musk deer, goral, Himalayan thar, snow leopard, and bears.
In addition to its natural beauty, the trek offers an authentic cultural experience. You can observe the traditional lifestyle of local people, taste organic local foods, honey, and homemade wine, and witness the unspoiled Trans-Himalayan Buddhist culture. The region is also known for its rare medicinal herbs, ancient Buddhist monuments, and timeless human civilization.
The Lower Dolpo Trek begins with a flight to Juphal, from where the trail gradually ascends through Dunai, Tarakot, Lahini, Tok Khyu, and Ringmo before reaching Phoksundo Lake, the ultimate destination. After soaking in the calm and mystical atmosphere of the lake, you will return to Juphal via Ringmo, Sepka, and Dunai.
Our Lower Dolpo Trekking Package includes all the major highlights of the region. If you wish to explore additional areas, we can customize the itinerary according to your preferences. During the trek, Himalaya View Treks provides professional trekking guides, comfortable accommodations, hygienic meals, experienced cooks, and well-equipped camping facilities to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
Lower Dolpo Trek Cost
The cost of the Lower Dolpo Trek depends on the group size, season, and level of service you choose. Our standard trekking package includes experienced guides, porters, accommodation, meals, camping equipment, and necessary permits.
Short Itinerary
Lower Dolpo Trek Itinerary - 14 days
Day 1: Flight to Nepalgunj (150m)
Take a scenic flight to Nepalgunj, a vibrant city in the western lowlands of Nepal. Explore the local market and prepare for the mountain flight the next day. Overnight stay in Nepalgunj.
Day 2: Flight to Juphal (2,320m) and trek to Dunai (2,850m) – 3 hrs
Fly to Juphal, the gateway to Dolpo, and begin your trek with a gentle walk through terraced fields and along the Thuli Bheri River to Dunai, the district headquarters of Dolpa.
Day 3: Dunai to Tarakot (2,540m) – 5 to 6 hrs
Trek through beautiful gorges, riverside trails, and small settlements surrounded by pine forests. Tarakot is a lovely village known for its ancient fortress and monastery.
Day 4: Tarakot to Laini (3,160m) – 6 hrs
Follow the trail along the Bheri River and ascend through terraced fields and traditional villages. Enjoy the peaceful rural lifestyle and mountain views along the way.
Day 5: Laini to Nawarpani (3,545m) – 5 to 6 hrs
The trail passes through gorges and high ridges, offering dramatic landscapes. You’ll see yak caravans and meet friendly locals along the route.
Day 6: Nawarpani to Dho Tarap (4,090m) – 6 hrs
Gradually ascend towards the high valley of Dho Tarap, one of the highest settlements in the world. Explore ancient monasteries and experience the Bon and Buddhist cultures of Dolpo.
Day 7: Acclimatization day at Dho Tarap
Take a rest day to acclimatize. Explore the village, visit monasteries, and interact with the local Dolpo-pa people to learn about their unique lifestyle.
Day 8: Dho Tarap to Numa La Base Camp (4,440m) – 5 hrs
Begin climbing towards the high passes, walking through yak pastures and rugged mountain terrain. Overnight at Numa La Base Camp.
Day 09: Cross Numa La Pass (5,190m) and trek to Pelung Tang (4,465m) – 7 hrs
A challenging but rewarding day as you cross the Numa La Pass with spectacular views of the Dhaulagiri range and surrounding peaks. Descend to Pelung Tang for the night.
Day 10: Cross Baga La Pass (5,070m) and trek to Dajok Tang (4,080m) – 6 hrs
Trek over another high pass, Baga La, which offers panoramic mountain views. Descend to Dajok Tang through alpine meadows and beautiful landscapes.
Day 11: Dajok Tang to Ringmo / Phoksundo Lake (3,600m) – 6 hrs
Walk through lush forests of pine and birch before reaching the enchanting Phoksundo Lake, one of Nepal’s most beautiful alpine lakes. Explore the serene surroundings and enjoy the turquoise waters.
Day 12: Rest day at Phoksundo Lake (3,600m)
Spend a relaxing day exploring around Phoksundo Lake, visiting the nearby monastery, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
Day 13: Phoksundo Lake to Juphal (2,320m) – 7 hrs
Descend through forests and traditional villages, retracing your steps back to Juphal for your final night in the Dolpo region.
Day 14: Flight Juphal – Nepalgunj – Kathmandu
Take an early morning flight to Nepalgunj and then connect to Kathmandu. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner and celebrate the completion of your adventure.
Included
- Airport pickup and drop as per the client’s arrival and departure time
- Hotel- domestic airport- hotel by car/ van, depending on group sizes
- Domestic flights (Kathmandu - Lukla - Kathmandu) tickets including airport taxes
- All meals (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during your Dolpo Trek
- 13 nights of Hotel Accommodation during the Dolpo Trek
- Government licensed holder, fluent English Speaking, Familiar HVT Leader guide
- Strong local Porters for Carry trekker’s luggage One porter every 2 trekkers
- Staff insurance including medication coverage
- Assistant guide if the Group size is more than 10 trekkers)
- Guide and e Assistance both ways Lukla flight Ticket
- National Park conservation and special trekking permits fees.
- Trekker’s information management system (TIM’s card)
- Seasonal fresh fruits every day during your Dolpo trek
- Water purification drops or tablets for safe drinking water
- Oximeter to measure Pulse and oxygen level
- Himalaya View Treks Company T-shirt as a Souvenirs and duffel bag if you needed
- Safe storing facilities at company store during the trek
- Local government, taxes, including official Service Charge
- Trip completion Certificate if you
Not Included
- Hotel accommodation and meals In Kathmandu
- Personal expenses (shopping, snacks, boil bottled water, hot (tea, coffee) and cold drinks, hot shower, alcohol, Wi-Fi, telephone call, battery charge fee during the Everest base camp Trek)
- Personal clothing and trekking gear
- Sleeping bag and down jacket available for rent in our store
- Personal travel insurance including evacuation coverage (compulsory) up to 6000m)
- Additional costs if delays flights and outside the itinerary
- Tips for Guide and Porters at the end of the treks
Useful Info
Lower Dolpo Trek – Trip Highlights
FAQs
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What is the best time to do the Lower Dolpo Trek?
The ideal time is spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November). These seasons offer clear skies, moderate temperatures, and beautiful landscapes. trekking in this reason also possible during the monsoon.
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What is the difficulty level of the trek?
The trek is moderate to challenging, suitable for fit and adventurous trekkers. High passes and long walking days require good stamina.
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How long is the Lower Dolpo Trek?
The standard itinerary is 15 days, including flights, acclimatization, and trekking to Phoksundo Lake and back. Shorter or customized itineraries can also be arranged.
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Do I need a special permit for Dolpo?
Yes, trekkers need Upper Dolpo/Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permits and Shey Phoksundo National Park entry permits, which we arrange as part of the trekking package.
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What kind of accommodation is available?
Accommodation is mostly tea houses and guesthouses along the trail. Luxury camping options are available in some areas.
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Is it necessary to hire a guide or porter?
Yes, it is highly recommended to hire experienced guides and porters due to the remote location, cultural knowledge, and safety requirements.
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What should I pack for the trek?
Essentials include warm clothing, trekking boots, sleeping bag, trekking poles, water purification, and first aid kit. A detailed packing list is provided upon booking.
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Is there mobile network or internet along the trek?
Mobile coverage is very limited, and internet access is generally available only in some villages with satellite connections.
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Are flights to Juphal reliable?
Flights are weather-dependent, especially during monsoon and winter. Delays or rescheduling may occur, so flexibility is advised.
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Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes, we can redesign the itinerary to include other remote villages, high passes, or longer stays at Phoksundo Lake according to your preference
Quick Enquiry
Trips Reviews
chiara7362025-09-21Unforgettable experiemce - Gosaikunda / Langtang trek We are glad that we have chosen Himalaya View Treks. Simbir always replied very fast and we agreed on everything before the trek.We did 11 day Gosaikunda - Langtang trek. Originally our plans wery different, on the way to starting point at Syabru Bensi road was blocked by demonstration and we couldn't pass. Therefore we completely changed our trek itinerary and started trek from another place. Our guide Anil was extremely helpful, kind, patient. He always respected our needs. We really apreciate his assistance whenpassing through landslide area and crossing the mountain streams.Anh Hao Ng2025-09-02Unforgetable experience at EBC • We only had a few days (10 days) while the usual trek takes 12 days. Our guide Ram helped us arrange the itinerary to suit the duration and physical demands, as well as finding the best teahouses.• During the trek, due to the lack of time to acclimatize to the altitude, I experienced respiratory issues. Ram provided immense support to help me recover and continue the journey.• We were cared for with great enthusiasm, supported fully from meals to rest, and the guide even brought apples for us to eat along the way. He also provided water and occasionally shared wifi for us to use. We highly appreciate the company and the individual efforts of our guide Ram and porter Santos. We strongly encourage everyone to support the company’s continued success and wish Ram and Santos further growth in their careers.Ngoc T2025-08-31Everest base camp - Aug 2025 The 10-day Everest Base Camp trek was an extraordinary adventure, thanks to the tour company’s exceptional service. Their passionate team expertly guided me to select a tour perfectly suited to my needs. Our guide, Mr. Ram, was warm, highly skilled, and crafted an itinerary that optimized my limited time while minimizing altitude challenges. His deep knowledge enriched every moment. The porter, Mr. Santos, was tirelessly carrying my three heavy bags and went along with us throughout the way ensuring my comfort. I’m thrilled with this unforgettable experience and the team’s professionalism. I’ll definitely book with them again! Highly recommended! Chuyến trekking 10 ngày đến Everest base camp là một hành trình tuyệt vời. Đội ngũ công ty đã tư vấn tôi nhiệt tình giúp tôi chọn tour phù hợp với nhu cầu. Hướng dẫn viên, anh Ram, thân thiện, dày dạn kinh nghiệm, đã thiết kế lộ trình tối ưu cho thời gian hạn chế của tôi, đồng thời giảm thiểu các vấn đề về độ cao. Kiến thức sâu rộng của anh làm phong phú thêm hành trình. Người khuân vác, anh Santos, không mệt mỏi mang ba túi nặng của tôi và luôn đồng hành, đảm bảo sự thoải mái cho tôi. Tôi vô cùng hài lòng với trải nghiệm khó quên này và sự chuyên nghiệp của đội ngũ. Chắc chắn tôi sẽ lại đặt tour với họ! Rất khuyến nghị!Elliot J2025-06-05Amazing hike through Annapurna Well organised from start to finish for the Annapurna Circuit. Good communication from Simbir throughout. Anil was such a fantastic guide and porter, very strong and easy going, made the hike one of the most beautiful I've been on! Would definitely recommend.Armando N2025-05-23Excellent EBC Trek Experience The 12-day EBC trek with this agency was awesome, the manager was very attentive since the first contact and explained every question with detail. During the trek my guide Anil was excellent, he knows the mountains very well and helps you whenever you need something.Hongbin Z2025-05-20ACT trekking Our company Himalaya view treks. The boss of the company is honest and price is very reasonable.The field guide Sofi Tamang his brother in low saugat kulung rai (porter) is a great team to lead us.We highly recommend this company.Alex M2025-05-11Incredible experience trekking in Nepal Myself and my partner did the 8 day Annapurna circuit trek and had an incredible time. We were picked up from Kathmandu airport and taken to our hotel in Kathmandu, and Simbir met us beforehand in order to go through all of the trek information and answer any questions. Our guide Ram and our porter Anil were both so kind and friendly, and made sure we were happy and looked after the whole time. Ram taught us lots about Nepali culture and answered our many many questions about food, culture, wildlife etc. He gave us ample opportunities for breaks and was very patient with us whilst we took hundreds of pictures of the breathtaking landscapes. Ram and Anil also kindly repaired my partner’s bag when it broke halfway through the trek. The teahouses were cosy, and it was so nice that Ram and Anil sorted everything for us, like rooms and meals, so that we didn’t have to worry about anything. Going over the Thorong La pass was a challenge but a huge achievement, and so beautiful. We would highly recommend trekking with this company, especially with Ram and Anil!Naomi C2025-05-07Pikey Peak trek - 6 days We made the Pikey Peak trek with Himalaya View Treks over 6 days including 2 days of travel and 4 days of hiking, it was an absolutely memorable experience. This trek is ideal for those looking for a less crowded alternative to the classics while offering spectacular views of the Himalayas, including Everest.One of the most significant moments was undoubtedly the sunrise from the summit of Pikey Peak. This is an exceptional panorama with a view of Nepal’s iconic peaks.The trek itself is of moderate difficulty, accessible with a minimum of physical preparation. The trails cross traditional Sherpas villages, rhododendron forests and very peaceful rolling landscapes. We were warmly welcomed in the lodges, with simple but tasty local cuisine.Our guide Suraj was professional, attentive and passionate about the area. Our wearer Sujan, always smiling, greatly facilitated our progress. Their presence not only made walking lighter, but enriched the human experience of trekking.I highly recommend this trek to Himalaya View Treks for those who want a well-organized authentic adventure, away from the crowds, with exceptional views of Everest.Jeremy C2025-05-07Amazing 6-Day Trek to Pikey Peak – Highly Recommended! We had an amazing 6-day trek to Pikey Peak, and I can't recommend it enough! The views of the Himalayas, especially Everest at sunrise from the summit, were absolutely breathtaking. The route was peaceful and less crowded, allowing us to really enjoy the beauty of the nature and the hospitality of the local people.Our guide Suraj was extremely knowledgeable and friendly, and always made sure we were comfortable and safe throughout the journey. Our porter Sujan was also incredibly kind and helpful.The accommodations in the tea houses were basic but cozy, with delicious local food. Every day of the trek was well-organized and filled with beautiful landscapes.If you're looking for a less touristy and beautiful trekking experience in Nepal, Pikey Peak is the one and I strongly encourage you to book the trek with Himalaya View Treks!Liz K2025-05-06Langtang Valley I booked the trip to Langtang Valley only the evening before I wanted to go! The company was great & organised everything so quickly.I met with Sofi the guide on day 1 of the trip. He was helpful, friendly and organised everything seamlessly.The landscape was beautiful walking alongside the river, up through the forest to beautiful mountain ranges.The highlight was trekking at sunrise to kyanji ri.Sofi organised great little b&b’s as well as great lunch spots along the way.The trek surpassed expectations & I’ll definitely be using the company again.
Hayley2024-04-10would absolutely recommend this company to do your trekking with in Nepal. From the moment we messaged simbir, he was so helpful with any questions/worries we had. Everything was so smooth from the moment we landed in Kathmandu. Our guide Ram was amazing on our trek to EBC, always making sure we were happy. Will definitely use again when we return to Nepal, thank you for everything guys✨✨Shermel2024-03-18Embarked on a 9 days EBC trek with Sofi and Jivan, our guide and porter. They were both very reliable during the course of the trek and kept the atmosphere lively even when we were high up in the mountains. Highly recommended!Olga Poltavskaya2024-01-05We used the services of a porter guide from the company on the Annapurna base camp trek. Rahul was truly amazing! so helpful and easy! We really appreciated his looking after us, helping pick the best accommodation and break spots along the way, making sure we are warm and positive. Would strongly recommend Rahul for those trekkers who look for a devoted and switched on porter guide.Mateusz Malzacher2023-12-19We had a fantastic 3 passes hike thanks to the guidance, expertise and professionalism of Bishal Rai. He was a great trip partner, providing local knowledge and a sense of humor along the way. He even pointed out all the peak names to us many times due to our forgetfulness. Thank you and highly recommend Himalaya View Treks and guide, Bishal Rai.Alejandro Espigares2023-12-01Realicé el trek del Campo Base Everest y todo fue increíble. Yo lo hice en solitario junto a mi guía Suraj y lo recomiendo 100%, muy atento y es un experto del terreno, sabe en todo momento como actuar si te encuentras mal o cansado y buscar una nueva ruta. La agencia me dio mucha seguridad en todo momento y me sentí acompañado en todo momento. Lo volvería a contratar una y mil veces. Gracias!!!A Expen5ive2023-11-22Our Guide Rahul made sure that it was a pleasant Trek from start to finish. Very knowledgeable about the areas and always puts the safety and wellbeing of us first. When you book your Trek make sure you ask for Rahul.Patrick Thumm2023-11-21Meine Frau und ich haben uns für eine „kurze“ Tour im Himalaya interessiert. Über das Internet sind wir auf Himalayan View Treks gestoßen. Sie haben die 8 Tage Annapurna Short Trek Tour angeboten. Die Kommunikation im Vorfeld per Mail mit Simbir lief super. Er konnte uns vorab alle Informationen geben. Auch eine individuelle Anpassung der Tour (z. B. per Flugzeug zurück) wäre möglich gewesen. Obwohl wir zunächst ein paar Tage in Kathmandu verbracht haben, wurden wir bei Ankunft von unserem Guide abgeholt und zum Hotel gebracht. So sind wir entspannt angekommen. An Tag 1 der Tour wurden wir früh morgens vom Hotel von unserem Guide (D. B.) und unserem Porter (Manoj) abgeholt. Tag 2-7 sind wir von Chame über Pisang, Manang, Ledar, High Camp über den Thorong La Pass nach Muktinath gewandert. Insgesamt waren es ca. 80km, 4.100m nach oben und 3.100m nach unten zu wandern. Tag 8 ging dann per Jeep zurück nach Pokhara. Trotz der für unsere Verhältnisse langen Strecke ging die Tour super zu laufen. Das lag vor allem auch an unserem Guide und Porter! D. B. hat sich stets nach unserem Wohlbefinden erkundet. Jeden Abend gab es einen kurzen Tagesrückblick und Lagebesprechung für den kommenden Tag. So konnten wir währenddessen noch entscheiden, ob wir an einem Tag etwas weiter laufen, um am darauffolgenden Tag etwas weniger machen müssen. Er ging da sehr gut auf uns ein. Manoj hat unseren schweren Rucksack getragen und wir konnten uns so ganz aufs Trekking konzentrieren. Darüber waren wir sehr dankbar. Auch er hat sich immer um uns gekümmert (are you ok? 😉) D.B. hat uns über den gesamten Trek viel Wissen über das Land und die Berge vermittelt. Außerdem konnte er uns viele interessante Bergsteiger Geschichten erzählen. Wir hatten 8 unbeschreibliche Tage! Unsere anfänglich Angst und Sorge, es nicht zu schaffen wurde uns durch den professionellen Umgang komplett genommen. Vielen Dank dafür!Daniel Weller2023-10-17Just returned home from a fantastic adventure holiday on the EBC trek. Himalaya View Treks couldn't of been more helpful from choosing and booking our trek before we arrived through to dropping us back to the airport once we had finished , nothing was too much trouble. Before coming to Nepal me and my dad was unsure if we needed a guide however we are now so pleased that we decided to get one. Sobit our guide made the experience so much better as he took care of all the arrangements and organising leaving us to concentrate on the trek and enjoy the scenery without any stress. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Himalaya View Treks and would request Sobit as a guide as he was brilliant!!!!Patrik Penzeš2023-10-05Great experience! Our guide Bishal became our friend in short time and made the trekking easier. I am grateful to both Bishal and Simbir for this experience. I strogly recommend Manaslu circuit trek with Bishal from himalaya view treks!
