Lower Dolpo

Lower Dolpo is the most accessible gateway into one of the remotest and most authentic regions of Nepal. Over 16 days, this trek links Juphal to Phoksundo Lake, the deepest in the country, crossing the Tibetan villages of Dunai, Tarakot and Dho Tarap, where the Bon religion — older than Buddhism — is still practised day to day.

After a flight to Nepalgunj and on to Juphal, the trail climbs the Thulo Bheri valley through villages of flat roofs and dry-stone walls, gaining height steadily up to Dho Tarap (4,040 m). Crossing the Numa La (5,309 m) and Baga La (5,169 m) passes then opens onto the descent towards the turquoise Phoksundo Lake, the high point of the journey.

What makes it unique

The most accessible version of Dolpo, the one that lets you discover this restricted region of western Nepal without committing to the three or four weeks of the full Shey Dolpo project. It still has the essentials: the Tibetan villages of Dho Tarap, two passes above 5,000 m, and Phoksundo Lake, the deepest in Nepal, whose turquoise water is among the most beautiful in the country.

Route at a glance

Kathmandu → flight to Nepalgunj → flight to Juphal → Dunai → Tarakot → Laini → Nawarpani → Dho Tarap → Numa La (5,309 m) → Baga La (5,169 m) → Ringmo / Phoksundo Lake → Chhepka → Juphal → return to Kathmandu

Good to know

• Duration: 16 days
• Difficulty: Demanding (two passes above 5,000 m, no technical skills required)
• High point: Numa La pass, 5,309 m