Dolpo Trek

Dolpo Trek takes you to the remote destination, Dolpo region with fascinating villages and is still a land of mystery, scenery and peace.

  • Package price

    USD 2750

  • Trip Code

    MKA-1030

  • No of days

    18

  • Group Size

    min 2 persons

  • Challenge level

    Moderate

  • MEALS

    Included (B,L, D)

  • TRANSPORTATION

    Private Vehicle & Flight

  • ACCOMMODATION

    Hotel & Guest House

  • MAX ALTITUTE

    -

  • BEST SEASON

    Mar-May / Sep-Dec

  • START POINT

    Kathmandu

  • END POINT

    Kathmandu

  • SUITABLE FOR

    10 to 79 years old

  • WALK PER DAY

    4-5 hrs walk per day

  • GUIDING METHOD

    Live Guide/Instructor

Highlights of 18 Days Dolpo Trek

  • Discover the majestic Wild West Nepal
  • Visit ancient monasteries of Dolpo district.
  • Adventure camping trek with views of Himalayas.
  • Pass through Kang La Pass (5350m) and Jyagla pass

Trip Overview

The region, designated as Shey Phoksumdo National Park, is the most remote district in Nepal situated in the Trans Himalayan region of mid-western Nepal. Dolpa is also known as "Ba Yul" or the hidden valley. The region with fascinating villages and is still a land of mystery, scenery and peace. Trekking in the lower region takes you to Ringmo and beyond - Phoksumdo Lake at 3600 m also known as the Blue Lake contains no aquatic life. The trek crosses two high passes of Baga La (5070 m) and Numa La (5190 m) into Dho Tarap village (4040 m) a region inhabited by people practicing polyandry and pre-Buddhist religion called "Bon Po"

The trek in Upper Dolpa crosses Sheula pass from Phoksumdo Lake to the legendary Crystal Mountains to Shey Gompa (4200 m) a Buddhist monastery and further to Samling Gompa a Bon Po monastery. This region has a long aura of mysticism about it. Site of Eric Valli's Oscar nominated movie "Caravan" - where people trade salt for grain with the people from far away land of Hurikot and Jumla to compensate their dwindling winter supply of food.

Some of the attractions of Lower and Upper Dolpo are:

  • The Dolpo region is the home of the Phoksundo Lake, the deepest lake of Nepal and Shey Phoksundo National Park, the largest national park in the country.
  • The famous Peak like Mt.Putha, Mt. Kanjirowaand Dolpo peak resides in the Dolpo region.
  • Dolpo is the home of the Buddhist’s holy place Crystal mountain and Shey Gompa.
  • Explore the Tinje valley and its culture and local people.
  • Dho Tarap valley is the settlement area in the highest elevation.
  • This region is the home of the biggest lake of Nepal "Rara Lake"
  • Explore the Sinjha valley; where it is believed that the Nepali language was flourished from here.
  • Upper Dolpo is similar to theUpper Mustangwhere old Tibetan culture seems to be highly influenced.
  • Kyakuchin a beautiful lake at an elevation of 5,200 meters and is estimated to be 1,500-metre-long and 600-metre-wide.

DETAILED Itinerary

  • Day 01
    Arrival day in Kathmandu [1,300m/4,264 ft.]

    Upon our arrival in the Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, we will be greeted by a representative from Makalu Adventures will drop us off at our hotel. After checking in, we take a rest or visit Makalu Adventure's office.

  • Day 02
    Kathmandu valley sightseeing & trek preparation

    We start a guided tour to Kathmandu Durbar Square holds the palaces of the medieval Kings who ruled over the then Kathmandu Kingdom. Pashupatinath houses a sacred lingum, or the phallic symbol of Lord Shiva. The Aryaghat alongside Pashupati and on the banks of the Bagmati River is a famous funeral site for the Hindus. The Buddhists shrine of Boudhanath is one of the largest stupas in the world, and one of the holiest Buddhist pilgrimage and tourist destinations in Kathmandu.  The area of Boudhnath is also famous for over 50 Tibetan Gompas or monasteries. Swayambhu meaning the "the self-existent" is popular among the foreigners as the Monkey Temple owing to the large number of monkey population residing in the area. Overnight at Kathmandu.

    Included Meals, Breakfast

  • Day 03
    Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj & transfer to Hotel

    We take an hour's flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj in Western Nepal. It is a one hour flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj. O/Nm Hotel

  • Day 04
    Fly from Nepalgunj to Jhupal (Dolpo) [2,320m/7,610ft] and trek to Dunai [2,850m/9,348ft]: 2-3 hrs. walk

    After an early breakfast, we take a morning flight to Jhupal. The 45minutes flight over the high mountains brings you at Jhupal over the Himalayan foothills, with views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks to the north. On arriving at Jhupal our trekking staffs will receive you. Our first day adventure begins through the terraced fields to the Bheri River and the narrow gorge taking 2-3 hours to camp at Dunai. Dunai is the administrative headquarter of the Dolpo region. Explore Dunai in the evening.

    Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Day 05
    Trek to Tarakot [2,543m/8,341ft]: 5-6 hrs. walk

    After breakfast we start our trek continues along the south bank of the river heading upstream on a good trail. Deep gorges, hanging bridges and isolated villages. A tremendous gorge with pine trees and an ingenious path built about seven meter above the river. The colorful terraced field of Tarakot greets us. Tarakot is an old fortress town built by the local people as Dzong or fort. The village stands on a hillock to the south of Bheri River at one time supervised collection of tolls for the trading caravans.

    Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Day 06
    Trek to Laini [3,160 m/10,365 ft.]: 6-7 hrs. walk

    After breakfast, we continue our walking to follow the Tarap Chu River upstream, crossing by bridge and crossing the same river twice. The famed Sandul Gompa lies farther east from Tarakot and at the junction of Barbung Khola and Tarup Chu River. The path leads through the farm terraces and rural villages.  After a few ups and downs, finally descend to reach our overnight camp at Laini

    Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Day 07
    Trek to Nawarpani [3,545m/11,627 ft.]: 5 hrs. walk

     After breakfast we continue walking up to the gorge of the Tarap River, rising high above on a trail built out from steep slopes. The walk is quite exciting as the valley becomes narrow gorge that in some places you can jump from one side to another. Descend to Chyugur Khola. Sometimes the path vanishes for a while, making our own path across stone slabs fitted on logs in between the walls which act as a bridge.

    Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Day 08
    Trek to Do Tarap [4,090m/13,415ft]: 7-8 hrs walk

    Our morning walk begins after breakfast with a gradual up leading us at Kamattarka at the confluence of the Tarap Chu and Lang Khola, a stream flowing from the east. After few hours of good morning walk leaving the narrow gorge, from here the path leads just above tree lines for juniper bush and wild rose, typical of dry inner Himlayan valleys. Another 3 hours or more walk brings us to the village of Dho Tarap surrounded by an irregular stone wall. In this Valley both Bon Po and Chaiba sects reside together. Tarap is also inhabited by a few Tibetans and mostly Magars who have lived here for many generations.

    Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Day 09
    Rest Day at Do Tarap for acclimatization

    We spend a rest day in Do Tarap for gradually getting used to the altitude. Time to visit monasteries and enjoy the breathtaking views.  Make friends with the locals who have hardly seen westerners. The Dolpo people wear home spun clothing that is sometimes dyed maroon and they favour Tibetan style Somba or Dhocha (boots with upturned toes) for foot wear. Both men and women often wear religious amulets and strings of coral, amber and turquoise. The people of the region are both Bon po and Nyingmapa of Buddhist sect. The Buddhist Gompa is nearby to the camp while the Bon Gompa (pre Buddhist) is about half an hour's walk.

    Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Day 10
    Trek to Numa La Base Camp [4440m/14,563 ft]: 6-7 hrs. Walk.

    After a wonderful time at Do Tarap, our journey continues towards upper Tarap valley, the walk follows in this plain valley with patched of lush verdant grass on both sides of the river, which is completely different from other parts of inner Dolpo. The trek on this pleasant track leads by the Tarap chu upstream all the way. Tarap is certainly a dream valley with vast plains in high mountains.  A few hours' good walk takes us to the village of Tokyu, it has a monastery belonging to the Chiba sect. After visit this village our walk continues further up this valley climbing up the rough track for almost another three hours to reach our overnight camp beneath the Numa-la.

    Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Day 11
    Cross Numa La [5,190m/17,023ft], and camp at Pelung Tang [4465m/14,645 ft]: 6-7 hrs.

      

    This is one of the long and difficult days during the trek. After breakfast our journey continues to crossing of Numa La pass at 5,190m, the track leads to steep climb all the way to the top ridge of Numa la with great views of the surrounding landscapes. An incredible panoramic view of the barren mountains of Dolpo up to the Dhaulagiri (8167m).  After getting to the top of Numa La we will descend to camp at Pelung Tang.

    Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Day 12
    Cross Baga La [5,070m/16,630ft] and camp Dajok Tang [4,080m/13,382ft]: 6 hrs.

    After breakfast our morning trek starts with a steep climb to reach the ridge top of Baga-la at 5,070m, which offers fantastic views of the surrounding landscapes and of the distant snowcapped peaks of Kanjirowa Himal range, after a glorious moment at the pass, almost three hours of downhill walk takes to the Dajok Tang for overnight.

    Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Day 13
    Trek to Ringmo (3,600m/11,808ft): 3-4 hrs. walk

    After breakfast our morning trek starts through the pine forest, on leaving the forest behind the country and the vegetation changes for pasture field and alpine shrubs most of the way to Ringmo on the gradual slopes with few ups and downs as we reach our final destination at Ringmo.

    Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Day 14
    Rest Day at Ringmo for a hike to Phoksundo Lake

    A rest and exploration day.  And of course we sit right on the shore of the spectacular Phoksumdo Lake; remember the harrowing scene in 'Himalaya' when Thinley's yak caravan attempted the 'Devil's Trail'. Yak caravans will be heading in and out of Ringmo on their way north towards the border of Tibet, and our most northerly destinations, Saldang and Thinje. This is the pleasant day free from the hassle of packing and chance to visit the nearby Tibetan Buddhist monastery is well worth a visit, as is the village of Ringmo. A walk part way round the lake is also very enjoyable and relaxing. This is a great day exploring the lake areas and the crystal serene Lake of Phoksundo with a great views.  Overnight at camp.

    Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Day 15
    Trek to Shyanta [2520m/8265 ft]: 5-6 hrs. walk

    Trek downhill to Chepka. From Chepka the trail follows the massive overhanging rock. We found 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.

    Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Day 16
    Trek to Jhupal

    Following the trail gently sloping upwards, we march towards Jhupal via Sulighat. We meet tall birch trees on our way. From atop the ridge, we can have the most spectacular views of the mountain and Jhupal below. Utmost caution is required while trekking along this trail. After reaching Jhupal, we can spend our afternoon exploring the busy market town or simply pursuing whatever we feel like.

    Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Day 17
    Fly to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj

    We take a flight from Jhupal to Nepalgunj. On reaching Nepalgunj, we return to Kathmandu on the next available flight. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. There is nothing to do but trade emails with travel companions and organize the photos. You can spend

    Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Day 18
    Final Departure

    You are saying good bye to the mountains of Nepal as your journey in Nepal comes to an end today.

Cost Includes

  • Airport pickups and drops in a private vehicle 3-star hotel Thamel Eco resort accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • Fully organised camping accommodation during the trek
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner, tea coffee, hot water for drinks ) during the trek
  • Welcome and farewell dinners
  • All ground transportation on a comfortable private vehicle as per the itinerary
  • Domestic flights (Kathmandu- Nepalgunj -Jhupal and back to Kathmandu round trip)
  • Guided city tour in Kathmandu by private vehicle Entrance fees for sightseeing/monument visits as per the itinerary
  • An experienced, English-speaking and government-licensed trek leader, cook and Kitchen helpers and their daily wages and insurance
  • Porters daily wages lodging and food and insurance all camping equipments like member tents, Dining tents, Kitchen tents , toilet tents, chair table and all kitchen utensils
  • Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, domestic airfare, food and accommodation
  • Makalu Adventure’s trekking bag/duffel bag, t-shirt and trekking map are yours to take
  • All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (National Park Permit, TIMS)
  • Medical kit (carried by your trek leader)
  • All government and local taxes
  • SAT Phone for emergency.

Cost Excludes

  • Nepalese VISA fee
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
  • Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj International flights
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle water, shower, etc.)
  • Tips for guide(s), porter(s) and driver(s

 info@makalu-adventure.com
 makaluadventures@gmail.com
 +977-9851037083

ALTITUDE ACCLIMATIZATION

To get the most from your trek, and to stay safe, it is important to follow acclimatization guidelines. At Makalu Adventure, whenever possible, we follow the acclimatization formula set out by Drs Jim Duff and Peter Gormly; experts in Wilderness Medicine. "Above 2000m, altitude illness is a possibility and above 2500m it becomes common".
"As a rough guide, above 2500m the maximum daily height gain between sleeping altitudes should not exceed 400m, with a rest day every third day or after every 1000m of sleeping ascent".
"Avoid overexertion and breathlessness while acclimatizing, stay well hydrated, avoid alcohol, excess caffeine, salt and protein, your diet should be 70% carbohydrate above 3500m".

Why Choose Makalu Adventure

Makalu Adventure has been trading for over 25 years; is one of the leading trek and expedition agents in Nepal and is used as in-country agent by several international adventure companies. At the helm is Mohan Lamsal (MD) assisted by head trekking guide Tenging Sherpa and head climbing guide Sanu Sherpa. Teni started trekking as a porter aged 14 and has hiked every trail in Nepal, many times! Sanu Sherpa has the distinction of having climbed all 14, 8,000m peaks, twice! Mohan Lamsal is not only MD of Makalu Adventure, he is also the General Secretary of the Nepal Mountaineering Association. You are in safe hands with Makalau Adventure.

Client Reviews

EXCELLENT : (5 / 5.0 ) 3

100% recommend this Package.
Score Breakdown
  • Sean James
    United Kingdom

    Excellent service and a welcome by Makalu Adventure

    I've known and worked with Mohan and Makalu Adventure for nearly 15 years. In that time I've led many treks and high altitude expeditions to Nepal (15 expeditions over 8000m and counting). His company provides an excellent service and a welcome that I look forward to every season. The Thamel Eco Resort is a center of tranquility in Kathmandu and the perfect place to start and finish the Himalayan Adventure. The staffs are now like family and I hope to return for many years with the guarantee of safety and security that he offers in the mountains.
  • Roy Francis
    France

    I have been working as my country-agent for Makalu Adventure since last 20 years and recommend them most highly.

    “I have used Makalu Adventure as my in-county agent for the last twenty years and recommend them most highly. The staff are knowledgeable, well trained and go that extra mile to make sure all is well. These are just some of the trips I have done with Makalu Adventure: Jiri to Everest Base Camp Trek - Phapulu to Everest Base Camp - Annapurna Base Camp - Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek Annapurna - Circuit of Dhaulagiri - Circuit of Manaslu - Rolwaling to Everest - Humla to Mt. Kailash - Everest ABC Tibet - Makalu Base Camp - Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek - Kangchenjunga Base Camp - Langtang Valley - Parchamo Peak - Dolpo - Mera Peak.
  • Tony Bree

    We had a Fantastic Time with Makalu Adventure

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