Lower Dolpo Trek - 17 Days

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Lower Dolpo Trek of 17 days is a breathtaking journey through one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally rich Himalayan Dolpo regions. This off-the-beaten-path trek offers stunning mountain views, amazing views of Phoksundo lake, traditional Tibetan-influenced villages, and pristine natural landscapes, including high mountain passes like Muria La and Kagmara La passes. Ideal for adventurous trekkers seeking solitude and authentic cultural experiences, the Lower Dolpo Trek combines challenging terrain with rewarding encounters, making it a unique and unforgettable Nepal trekking adventure.

Trip Facts
Country
Nepal
Duration
17 Days
Trip Grade
Hard
Max. Altitude
5120 meters
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Activities
Walking/Hiking
Accomodation
Hotels , Lodges & Tented Camp
Meals
Breakfast , Lunch & Dinner
Best Time
Spring, Autumn & Summer

Highlights of Lower Dolpo Trek in Nepal

  • Remote and Untouched Region: Experience one of Nepal’s most isolated and least visited trekking areas, preserving authentic Tibetan culture and traditions.
  • Stunning Mountain Scenery: Spectacular views of high peaks like Dhaulagiri, Annapurna ranges, and snow-capped Himalayan giants.
  • High Mountain Passes: Cross challenging passes such as Muria La (3,840 m) and Kagmara La (5,120 m) offering panoramic vistas.
  • Traditional Tibetan Villages: Visit ancient settlements like Ringmo and Lasa, known for their unique architecture, monasteries, and warm local hospitality.
  • Rich Cultural Heritage: Immerse yourself in Tibetan Buddhist culture, monasteries, and traditional festivals.
  • Diverse Wildlife: Chance to spot rare Himalayan fauna including blue sheep, snow leopard (rare), and Himalayan birds.
  • Trek through untouched forests, alpine meadows, and clear glacial streams, perfect for nature lovers.

Lower Dolpo Trek Itinerary: 17 Days Through Nepal’s Wilderness

Lower Dolpo Trekking package of 17 days from-to Kathmandu, offers an immersive experience in one of Nepal’s most remote and culturally rich Himalayan regions. Lower Dolpo trek begins by taking domestic flights from Kathmandu to Nepalganj and then to Jumla. Trekkers are supported by experienced guides and porters, ensuring safety and smooth logistics throughout the journey. Lower Dolpo trekking covers rugged mountain terrain, high passes such as Muria La (3840 m) and Kagmara La (5120 m) passes, and visit to traditional Tibetan-style villages.

Lower Dolpo region is a restricted area, close to Tibet. For trekking in Lower Dolpo, trekkers must obtain a Special Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit to enter and trek through this part of Nepal. Additionally, the trek passes through Shey Phoksundo National Park, Nepal’s largest and one of the most pristine conservation areas, requiring payment of the park entrance fees. These permits are mandatory for all trekkers and are strictly enforced by Nepalese authorities.

Lower Dolpo Trek is renowned for its incredible remoteness and authentic cultural encounters. Key trekking points include crossing the Muria La Pass, which offers panoramic views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks and pristine valleys. Ringmo village stands out for its beautiful ancient monastery and unique Tibetan architecture, providing a deep dive into Buddhist culture.

One of the major highlights of Lower Dolpo trek is visit to Phoksundo Lake, located within Shey Phoksundo National Park. At an altitude of about 3,600 meters, this stunning turquoise blue lake is the deepest in Nepal and is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and serene surroundings. The lake is considered sacred by the local Tibetan Buddhist communities, who believe it to be the abode of protective deities. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and pine forests, Phoksundo Lake supports a unique ecosystem, including rare fish species found nowhere else in Nepal.

The high-altitude point during Lower Dolpo trek is Kagmara La Pass, demanding physical endurance but rewarding trekkers with breathtaking vistas. Other significant stops include traditional villages like Lasa and Toijem, where visitors witness centuries-old Tibetan customs still thriving. Trekkers should be prepared for challenging trails, variable weather conditions, and limited facilities, making physical fitness and mental preparedness essential for this adventure.

Why Asian Adventure Treks & Expedition For 25 Days Upper Dolpo Trekking?

With over 20 years of experience in trekking and remote Himalayan exploration, our team at Asian Adventure Treks & Expedition specializes in leading safe, immersive, and culturally enriching treks to Lower Dolpo and beyond. We’ve successfully organized numerous treks to Lower Dolpo Trek and other sacred sites within the restricted Dolpo region.

We work with licensed, highly experienced guides who are not only knowledgeable about the region’s geography and history but are also trained in first aid, altitude awareness, and emergency response. Our carefully crafted 17-days Lower Dolpo Trek itinerary includes proper acclimatization, cultural stops, and the flexibility to adapt to weather or trail conditions—ensuring a rewarding and balanced adventure.

From your arrival in Kathmandu to your return, we handle all logistics including transportation, permits (Lower Dolpo Restricted area permit amd Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit), accommodations, porters, meals, and entry to cultural sites. You travel worry-free — we manage the entire journey with attention to every detail.

Safety and comfort are at the core of our services. We equip our teams with first aid kits, reliable communication tools (on request), and trained support staff. We strictly follow responsible tourism practices, including proper waste disposal, eco-friendly trekking, and ensuring fair wages and insurance for our crew.

As a company founded in 2002 A.D., we take pride in our reputation for excellence, honesty, and personal care. Many of our past trekkers have returned or referred others, especially after experiencing the authentic culture, remote beauty, and spiritual depth route with us.

Join Asian Adventure Treks & Expedition for the 17-Days Lower Dolpo Trek — and discover the sacred caves, ancient trails, and timeless traditions of Dolpo with a team that truly knows and respects the region.

Outline Itinerary

Itinerary
Day 01:Arrival in Kathmandu
Max Altitude
1,350m / 4,429ft
Walking/Hiking
-
Itinerary
Day 02:Katmandu – Nepalgunj (173 m)
Max Altitude
173m / 567ft
Walking/Hiking
Flight
Itinerary
Day 03:Nepalgunj – Jumla (2370 m) – Gothichaur (2500 m)
Max Altitude
2,500m / 8,202ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 04:Gothichaur (2780m) – Kunrigaon (2750 m)
Max Altitude
2,750m / 9,022ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 05:Kunrigaon – Chorta (3010 m) – Naphukana (2990 m)
Max Altitude
2,990m / 9,809ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 06:Naphukana – Muria La (3840 m) – Chaurikot (3070 m)
Max Altitude
3,070m / 10,072ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 07:Chaurikot – Kaigaon (2610 m) – Hurikot (2760 m)
Max Altitude
2,760m / 9,055ft
Walking/Hiking
-
Itinerary
Day 08:Hurikot – Toijem (2910 m)
Max Altitude
2,910m / 9,547ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 09:Toijem – Gorphug (3750 m) – Kagmara Phedhi (4240 m)
Max Altitude
4,240m / 13,910ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 10:Kagmara Phedhi – Kagmara La (5120 m) – Lasa (4200 m)
Max Altitude
4,200m / 13,779ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 11:Lasa – Pungmo (3180 m) – Ringmo (3540 m)
Max Altitude
3,450m / 11,318ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 12:Ringmo: Exploration around Phoksundo Lake
Max Altitude
3,540m / 11,614ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 13:Ringmo – Chekpa (2678 m)
Max Altitude
2,750m / 9,022ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 14:Chekpa – Dunai (2150 m) – Juphal (2440 m)
Max Altitude
2,440m / 8,005ft
Walking/Hiking
Walking
Itinerary
Day 15:Juphal – Nepalgunj – Kathmandu (1350 m)
Max Altitude
1,350m / 4,429ft
Walking/Hiking
Flight
Itinerary
Day 16:Kathmandu
Max Altitude
1,350m / 4,429ft
Walking/Hiking
-
Itinerary
Day 17:Kathmandu
Max Altitude
1,350m / 4,429ft
Walking/Hiking
-

Lower Dolpo Trek - 17 Days Detailed Itinerary

The itinerary can be customized according to your duration of holiday. Similarly hotel can be upgraded or downgraded depending on your requirement.

Starts: Kathmandu
Ends: Kathmandu

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by our correspondent who will assist with your transfer to the hotel. Once checked in, we will arrange a pre-trip meeting where we will brief in short about the trek, answer any queries you have and meet your trekking guide as well. After the short brief, you can relax and spend rest of the day at your leisure. Stay overnight at the hotel.

This day we will have breakfast at the hotel and get ready to begin the trek. In the afternoon we will drive from hotel to Kathmandu TIA airport. We will have 1 hour flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, if weather is clear we can see beautiful mountain range of Lanagtang, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna and Manaslu Himalayas. Nepalgunj is one of the Terai regions of Nepal and is closer to Indian border and temperature is quite hot / warm. Overnight at hotel in Nepalgunj.

After having breakfast in the early morning, prepare to fly towards Karnali province of Nepal, which takes about 30 minutes via flight in light aircraft.

Jumla lies in the north-west side of Nepal and is one of the districts of Karnali province, which is the least developed destination of Nepal.Jumla is renowned for its unique agricultural heritage, especially its organic apples and high-altitude red rice known as Jumli Marsi. Also, the region is famous for the rare medicinal herb Yarsagumba and serves as a key gateway to the stunning Rara Lake, Nepal’s largest lake.

Upon arrival in Jumla airport, you will meet your porters, and mules to begin the trek to Gothichaur. After walking for about 4-5 hours you reach Gothichaur. You will be walk through the country road trials (straight trials) to reach Gothichaur. On the way you will pass through Depalgaun, a typical village of Jumla, pass through the apple farms and cross the bank of Tila River. You can find different ethnic groups like: Buddha Chhetri, Brahmin, Chhetri ethnic group and beautiful village houses as you pass by.

Today you will have phone network, but no WIFI as you reach Karnali province of Nepal. Enjoy the scenery and greenery with local culture and people around. Overnight at tented camp.

This day you will have breakfast in the tents and then get ready to begin the trek to Kurigaun which is one of the beautiful and typical villages of Jumla. It takes about 5 hours of walk to reach Kurigaun.

In the morning from Gothichaur you can see breathtaking view of greenery and landscape of mountains. You can see small tea houses in Gothichaur. From Gothichaur start to walk ahead for another 2 hours on straight mountain road. On the way you will pass through the hills, pine trees, grasslands and small apple farms. You can see sheeps and cattle grazing in the fields. You will reach Kuri Santa which is also called Kurigaun for lunch camp. You can explore around the village after you reach Kurigaun. You get to see beautiful houses and 3 different ethnic groups: Chhetri, Thakali and Tibetan all living together in the village.Overnight at tented camp.

Today you will have no phone network & WI-FI! 

This day after having breakfast in the morning, prepare to head towards Naphukana via Chorta which takes about 5-6 hours of walking.

Today's trail will begin by walking straight trial until you reach Mani Sangu village and again walking through the bank of Chorta Khola in another 2 hours you will reach Chorta. On the way you will walk through the forest, and can see amazing view of lush landscape. As we reach Chorta, we can see very basic guest houses and homestay in Chorta. Chorta has the settlement of Chhetri, Tibetan and Thakali community in Chorta. 

From Chorta again walking 3-4 hours forested path through the dense pine and rhododendron forests, passing through shepherd huts, chortens  & prayer flags on the way you will reach Naphukana. Overnight at tented camp. 

Today you will have no phone network & WI-FI! 

This day after having breakfast in the morning prepare to trek towards Chaurikot via Muria La Pass (3840 m). Today is one of the challenging yet rewarding day of the Lower dolpo trek. 

The trail from Naphukana (2990 m) to Chaurikot (3070 m) via Muria La Pass (3840 m) is a challenging yet rewarding segment of the trek. The day begins with a steady ascent through dense coniferous forests, gradually entering alpine terrain as you approach the pass. The climb to Muria La, the highest point of the day, is steep in sections but not technically difficult. From the top, trekkers are rewarded with sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges. After crossing the pass, the trail descends sharply through high meadows and forested slopes, eventually reaching Chaurikot, a traditional settlement surrounded by open grazing fields. The total walking time is approximately 6 to 7 hours, and while basic accommodation may be available in Chaurikot, most trekkers prefer to camp.

Overnight at tented camp.

Overnight at tented camp.

Overnight at tented camp.

Overnight at tented camp.

Overnight at tented camp.

Overnight at lodge.

Rest day in Ringmo allows us to relax and explore the beautiful surroundings of this traditional Tibetan-style village. The highlight of the area is the stunning Phoksundo Lake, Nepal’s deepest lake, with its mesmerizing turquoise-blue waters. We can take short hikes around the lake, visit the ancient Bonpo monastery nearby, and learn about the unique Bon Buddhist culture practiced in the region. The peaceful environment, with prayer flags fluttering and the lake reflecting the surrounding mountains, makes it a perfect place to unwind and acclimatize before continuing the trek.

Phoksundo Lake, located at an altitude of 3,611 meters in the heart of the Dolpo region, is one of Nepal’s most spectacular natural wonders. Known for its stunning turquoise-blue waters, it is the deepest lake in Nepal and holds significant spiritual importance for the local Bonpo and Tibetan Buddhist communities. Surrounded by steep cliffs and dense forests, the lake’s pristine environment supports rare wildlife, including the elusive snow leopard and blue sheep. Overnight at lodge.

This day after having breakfast in the morning, prepare to trek towards Chekpa which takes about 6-7 hours of walking.

Today’s trail descends steadily from the shores of Phoksundo Lake through forested valleys and terraced fields. The route passes traditional villages and offers scenic views of the surrounding hills. As you approach Chekpa (2,678 m), the landscape becomes more temperate, with warmer air and greener surroundings. This village is a quiet stopover point with basic lodge facilities. Overnight at lodge or camp.

This day after having breakfast in the morning prepare to trek towards Juphal which takes about 5-6 hours of walking.

Today’s trek follows a gentle descent along forested trails and river valleys toward Juphal, the gateway village to Lower Dolpo. The path is mostly downhill with occasional flat sections, passing through traditional settlements and lush landscapes. Juphal has a small airstrip and basic guesthouses, serving as a key hub before flights to Nepalgunj. Overnight at lodge or camp.

This day after having breakfast in the morning prepare to fly towards Kathmandu via Nepalgunj. The flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj is of 30 minutes and again upon arriving in Nepalgunj, another flight to Kathmandu of 1 hour. Stay overnight at hotel. 

This day we will have a free day for shopping and other activities such as Kathmandu city sightseeing etc. Overnight at Hotel

Today is your last day in Kathmandu before departure. At your scheduled departure time, our correspondent will pick you up from the hotel, transfer you to the airport, and bid you farewell with warm hearts. 

Altitude Chart

Unit:

Lower Dolpo Trek - 17 Days: Cost Details

Includes

  • Transfer from Airport – Hotel – Airport, including domestic transfers
  • 3 nights in 3-star hotel or similar in Kathmandu on bed and breakfast plan with twin sharing basis
  • 1 Nights in 3-star hotel in Nepalgunj on bed and breakfast plan with twin sharing basis
  • Flight tickets Kathmandu – Nepalgunj – Kathmandu, including the guide
  • Flight tickets Nepalgunj – Jumla & Juphal – Nepalgunj, including the guide
  • Land transports of camping equipment and kitchen utensils.
  • Phokshundo National Park Entry Permits
  • Special Permit to Lower Dolpo Restricted Area
  • Camping tents, kitchen tent, bathroom tent and kitchen utensils
  • Camping fees during the trek
  • Accommodation in camping tents during the trek
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner with tea-coffee) during the trek
  • Guide, cook and porters or mules - yaks needed
  • Insurance, equipment, food, accommodation, and salary of the guide and porters
  • Farewell Dinner
  • Achievement certificates for completion of Lower Dolpo Trek in Nepal
  • All necessary government taxes and fees

Excludes

  • International airfare & Nepal VISA fees
  • Personal equipment
  • Personal and/or Medical Insurance
  • Emergency rescue by helicopter (if necessary)
  • Bar bills and drinks (mineral water, soft drinks, beers, etc.)
  • Hot showers, electric charges and wifi during the trek (lodges)
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Unforeseen expenses caused by uncontrollable circumstances such as flight cancellations or delays, blocked roads, weather conditions, natural disasters, altitude sickness, ...
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips
  • Any other expenses not mentioned in INCLUDED

Dates & Availability

Our online briefing is designed to answer all your questions about the trek. We’ll go over the gear you’ll need (equipment checklist), provide a detailed itinerary, and explain what you can expect on the trail. After you book your trip, we’ll send you an email with available briefing dates and times. Once we receive your required documents, we’ll schedule and conduct the online trek briefing.

Add-ons & Options

Personalizing your Lower Dolpo Trek- 17 Days, just follow these steps:

Step 1: Select your desired departure date
Step 2: Specify the number of participants/ travellers
Step 3: Click on the ‘Book Now’ or ‘Add to Cart’ button
Step 4: Choose from the available add-on options to enhance your experience
Step 5: Proceed with the advance payment to confirm your booking

For our travellers interested for Lower Dolpo Trek in Nepal, we would like to present a selection of exclusive add-ons to make your trekking experience comfortable and easier!

Essential Information

Permits Required For Lower Dolpo Trek in Nepal

Trekking to Upper Dolpo requires two main permits due to its location in a restricted and protected area. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit: This permit is issued by the Department of Immigration and costs approximately USD 500 per person for the first 10 days, and USD 50 per person per day thereafter. The permit is mandatory for all trekkers entering the Lower Dolpo region and can only be obtained through a licensed trekking agency in Nepal.
  • Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit: This permit is required to enter the national park of Shey-Phoksundo. It costs NPR 3,000 per person.

At Asian Adventure Treks & Expedition, we handle all the necessary permits for you. Our team arranges them in advance, and your guide will carry all documents to ensure hassle-free access at checkpoints.

Best Time For Lower Dolpo Trek in Nepal

The best time to trek Lower Dolpo is during Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). These seasons provide clear skies, pleasant weather, and stunning views of the remote Himalayan landscapes and Tibetan-influenced villages.

  • Spring (March – May): Spring is one of the best times to explore Lower Dolpo. The weather is generally stable with warmer days and clear, crisp skies. Trails are mostly dry and easier to navigate. The region comes alive with blooming wildflowers across alpine meadows, adding vibrant colors to the rugged terrain. This season also offers the chance to witness traditional Tibetan Buddhist festivals in remote villages, enriching the cultural experience of the trek.
  • Autumn (September to November): Autumn is considered the peak trekking season for Lower Dolpo. After the monsoon, the skies clear completely, providing spectacular panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and high mountain passes. Daytime temperatures are mild while nights can be chilly, creating comfortable trekking conditions. The dry weather and serene atmosphere make this season ideal for photography and exploring ancient monasteries and villages.
  • Monsoon/Summer (June to August): While Lower Dolpo lies in a relatively rain-shadowed area, it still experiences some monsoon rains. Trails may become slippery and muddy in places, and the lower sections can be hot and humid. However, the monsoon season offers lush greenery, fewer trekkers, and snow-free passes, which can be appealing to experienced adventurers seeking solitude.

At Asian Adventure Treks & Expedition, we recommend trekking Lower Dolpo during Spring and Autumn for the best weather, visibility, and cultural experiences. The monsoon season is possible for those prepared for wetter trails and quieter trails.

Meals & Accommodation For Upper Lower Dolpo Trekking in Nepal

The Lower Dolpo trek is a remote and less frequented journey that offers a combination of basic lodges in some villages and camping in more isolated areas where accommodation is limited or unavailable.

  • Lodges & Camping: Villages along the lower and mid-sections of the trek such as Dunai, Juphal, and Ringmo (near Phoksundo Lake) have simple tea houses or lodges that provide basic rooms with limited amenities. As you progress deeper into Lower Dolpo, especially in remote sections like Toijem, Gorphug, and beyond Kagmara La Pass, trekking lodges become scarce or nonexistent. In these areas, organized camping is necessary, and trekkers rely on tents, food supplies, and kitchen staff to support the journey.
  • Meals: Meals served in lodges and tea houses generally consist of traditional Nepali dishes such as dal bhat (lentils, rice, and vegetables), along with Tibetan-influenced foods like momos, thukpa, and tsampa. During camping days, meals are prepared by the trekking cook and typically include warm, nutritious options like soups, rice, pasta, and vegetable curries. Although food variety is limited due to the remoteness of Lower Dolpo, the meals are wholesome, hygienic, and designed to provide sufficient energy for high-altitude trekking.

Incase of Special Dietary Needs:

  • Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-intolerant meal options available upon request
  • Notify your travel agency while booking the trip in advance to plan accordingly for the remote sections

MENU OF MEALS INCLUDED IN THE COST FOR THE WHOLE TRIP

A. Breakfast Menu (Main Course with a cup of a tea / coffee)
Main course: Bread / Muesli / Porridge / Pancake / Tibetan Bread / Chapatti / Corn flakes / Burger / Sandwich or any main course dish as per menu with a cup of tea / coffee

B. Lunch Menu (Main Course with a cup of a tea / coffee)
Main course: 
Chowmein / Fried Rice / Pasta / French Fries / Chips / Momo / Spring Roll / Pizza / Burger / or any main course dish as per menu with a cup of tea / coffee

C. Dinner Menu (Soup + Main Course with a cup of a tea / coffee)
Any soup:
 Mushroom soup / Garlic soup / Onion Soup / Potato Soup / Veg Soup or any soup as per menu
Main course: Macaroni / Pasta / Chowmein / Fried Rice / Chips / Pizza / Spaghetti / Momo / Noodles / Nepali Thali / or any main course dish as per menu with a cup of tea / coffee

Note:

  • During the trek, please inform us in advance if you are vegetarian, vegan, or have any food allergies. We will accommodate your dietary needs with simple, plant-based or allergy-conscious meals.
  • During the peak season it will not be easy to get the accommodation during the trek, so for better service and hassle-free journey to Himalayas, book with Asian Adventure Treks & Expedition, we will pre book and ensure to make your holiday memorable and pleasant.

17 Days Lower Dolpo Trek Cost for 2025 & 2026

Booking for Lower Dolpo Trekking of 17 days is now available for 2025 & 2026. Without compromising on the services, we ensure to provide you quality services. Please check the rate below for group price to Lower Dolpo Trek :

TARRIFS 2 - 3 pax 4 - 7 pax 8 - 11 pax 12 - 15 pax
2025        
2026        

Difficulty Level of Lower Dolpo Trekking in Nepal

The Lower Dolpo Trek is graded as a Challenging high-altitude trek, best suited for experienced trekkers with strong physical fitness, mental toughness, and a passion for adventure. This remote trail leads through one of Nepal’s most isolated regions, featuring rugged terrain, high passes, deep valleys, and culturally rich Tibetan Buddhist villages.

Key points to consider for Lower Dolpo treks:

  • Fitness: Expect to trek 6 to 8 hours daily on steep ascents and descents, uneven rocky trails, river crossings, and long stretches without settlements. The remoteness and ruggedness demand excellent endurance and stamina.
  • Altitude: The trek crosses significant high passes such as Muria La (3,840 m) and Kagmara La (5,120 m). Proper acclimatization is crucial as altitude sickness can affect trekkers at these elevations.
  • Trail Conditions: Trails are remote and can be rough, with loose rocks, narrow paths, and some snow-covered sections during early or late seasons. The scarcity of villages and facilities means trekkers need full logistical support.
  • Weather: Weather can change rapidly in high altitudes. Spring and autumn offer the most stable weather, though temperatures can drop sharply at night. Snowfall is possible at higher elevations.
  • Experience: Prior experience with high-altitude trekking and camping is strongly recommended. This trek is not suitable for beginners. A guided trek with support from experienced guides, porters, and cooks ensures safety and smooth navigation.

Overall, the Lower Dolpo Trek is a rewarding and raw adventure into Nepal’s pristine wilderness, ideal for seasoned trekkers seeking solitude, cultural immersion, and spectacular natural beauty far from the crowds.

Altitude Sickness & Remedies on Lower Dolpo Trekking

Lower Dolpo Trek reaches elevations of up to 5,120 meters, particularly near Kagmara La Pass (5,120 m) and high passes such as Muria La (3,840 m) and Lasa Pass (around 4,200 m). Although it is not among the absolute highest-altitude treks in Nepal, altitude sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness – AMS) remains a real risk if proper acclimatization and precautionary measures are not followed. Trekkers should take their time to adjust to the increasing altitude and be aware of symptoms to ensure a safe and enjoyable trek.

Common Symptoms:

  • Headache
  • Dizziness or fatigue
  • Nausea or loss of appetite
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Shortness of breath

These symptoms typically appear above 3,000 meters and can affect anyone—regardless of fitness or experience.

What You Can Do:

  1. Walk Slowly
    • Trek at a steady pace, without rushing.
    • Follow acclimatization days built into the itinerary.
  2. Stay Hydrated
    • Drink 3–4 liters of water daily.
    • Enjoy warm fluids like ginger tea and garlic soup.
    • Avoid alcohol and reduce caffeine intake.
  3. Eat Well
    • Don’t skip meals even if appetite drops.
    • Choose high-energy foods like rice, pasta, potatoes, and soups.
  4. Keep Warm
    • Dress in layers.
    • Wear a hat, gloves, and warm socks to avoid cold-related stress.
  5. Listen to Your Body
    • Rest if symptoms appear.
    • Immediately inform your guide if you feel unwell.

Medicines & Local Remedies:

  • Diamox (Acetazolamide): Helps prevent AMS if taken in advance (consult your doctor).
  • Paracetamol or Ibuprofen: Useful for headaches or minor aches.
  • Local Remedies: Garlic soup and herbal teas are traditionally used and often helpful.
  • Oxygen Support: Rarely needed but may be carried by guides for emergency use.

At Asian Adventure Treks & Expedition, we take your health seriously. Our guides monitor your condition daily and ensure a slow, well-paced trek with proper acclimatization, reducing the risk of altitude sickness and ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience in the mystical landscapes of Lower Dolpo.

 

Equipment List for Lower Dolpo Trek - 17 Days

Packing smartly for the Lower Dolpo Trek is important to ensure comfort and safety throughout your journey. Since this trek involves camping in remote areas and trekking at high altitude, here are the essential items you should bring:

1. Clothing

  • Moisture-wicking T-shirts (2–3)
  • Fleece jacket or light down jacket
  • Lightweight hoodie or sweater
  • Waterproof/windproof jacket (Gore-Tex preferred)
  • Rain poncho or pack cover
  • Trekking pants (2)
  • Thermal leggings for cold nights
  • 3–4 pairs of moisture-wicking socks
  • Inner garments
  • Warm hat/beanie
  • Sun hat/cap
  • Gloves (inner fleece + waterproof outer gloves)

2. Footwear

  • Trekking or hiking boots with ankle support
  • Lightweight camp shoes (crocs/sandals)

3. Backpacking Gear

  • Daypack (20–30L) with rain cover
  • Duffel bag if using a porter

4. Sleeping Essentials

  • Sleeping bag rated to at least -10°C - optional (can rent in Kathmandu / Pokhara)

5. Hydration & Nutrition

  • Water bottles (1–2L total capacity) or hydration bladder
  • Water purification tablets or filter (e.g., LifeStraw/Sawyer)
  • Electrolyte tablets or ORS
  • Energy bars, trail mix, dried fruits (optional but handy)

6. Personal Care & Toiletries

  • Biodegradable soap/shampoo
  • Toothbrush & paste
  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
  • Lip balm with SPF
  • Toilet paper & wet wipes
  • Hand sanitizer

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