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The fascinating trek in the remotest region of Nepal, that penetrates through the lush vegetation and takes you right at the foothills of Mt. Kanjiroba where the water at Phoksundo Lake glitters and the Buddhism before Buddha, Bon thrives- Lower Dolpo Trek.
Lower Dolpo Trek begins from Nepal’s one of the far-flung airports in the west, Juphal. Lower Dolpo Trek is fascinating for its unique highlights. Initially, the trekkers experience the culture of Chettris and Brahmins which contrasts hugely with the people of the same ethnical tribes living in other parts of the country. As the trek goes further, the scenario in the vicinity changes culturally and naturally. Towards Phoksundo we trek along the trail above Phoksundo Khola through dense alpine forest.
The view of Mt. Kanjiroba- the highest mountain in the region at the backdrop of Phoksundo Lake is enchantingly beautiful and the Bon culture at Ringmo Village that nestles right above Phoksundo Lake is worthwhile to encounter. The unique attributes of Phoksundo Lake that trekkers discover upon reaching there is a definite amazement.
A spectacular journey awaits you on the Lower Dolpo Trek in Nepal’s isolated Dolpo district. This journey offers distinctive experiences that make it a highlight for many travellers. It is known for its unspoiled natural beauty and rich cultural legacy. A difficult and rewarding excursion that combines natural beauty, cultural diversity, and outdoor adventure is the Lower Dolpo Trek. The trail to Phoksundo Lake during Lower Dolpo Trek with Access Nepal also throws trekkers a challenge to cross passes of 5000m plus. Fascinating landscapes, wonderful highland hamlets full of unique culture, lush vegetation, floral and faunal diversity in Shey Phoksundo National Park, and the paramount natural delights are the highlights of Lower Dolpo Trek.
The last day of the Lower Dolpo trek is relatively very short. So enjoy the walk to Juphal. Once we arrive at Juphal, we have plenty of time to explore this small town of western Nepal. Enjoy a bit of modernity here in Juphal.
Included: Guide, porters, three meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and camping accommodation
Before embarking on the Lower Dolpo Trek, it’s crucial to ensure that you have the necessary travel documents. Nepal requires a valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond your planned departure date. Additionally, you must obtain a visa to enter the country. Visas can be obtained on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at various border entry points.
Visa fees vary depending on the duration of your stay. As of my last update in January 2022, a 15-day visa costs $30, a 30-day visa costs $50, and a 90-day visa costs $125. These fees are subject to change, so it’s advisable to check with the official Nepal immigration website or consulate for the latest information.
The Lower Dolpo region, being a restricted area, requires special permits. There are two main permits you need: the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and the Shey-Phoksundo National Park permit.
Restricted Area Permit (RAP): You can obtain the RAP through registered trekking agencies in Nepal. The cost varies, but as of my last update in January 2022, it was around $10 per person per week.
Shey-Phoksundo National Park Permit: This permit is essential as you’ll be trekking through this national park. The cost is approximately $30. You can obtain it from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or at the park entrance.
Accommodation during the Lower Dolpo Trek is primarily in tea houses or guesthouses along the route. These basic lodges provide a bed, often with blankets, and communal dining areas. While facilities may be simple, they offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Tea houses usually provide shared bathroom facilities, and hot showers may be available for an additional fee. It’s advisable to carry a sleeping bag for added comfort and warmth, especially in higher altitudes.
Booking accommodation in advance is not common on the trek, but during peak seasons, it’s wise to arrive at tea houses early to secure a room. Keep in mind that accommodation options may be limited in some remote areas, so flexibility in your itinerary is recommended.
Food options along the Lower Dolpo Trek are basic but nutritious. Tea houses typically offer a menu with a variety of local and international dishes such as dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), noodles, pasta, and even some western-style meals.
It’s advisable to stick to a carbohydrate-rich diet to fuel your trek. The local cuisine is not only tasty but also a great source of energy. While some tea houses may offer meat, it’s essential to be cautious with the hygiene standards, particularly in remote areas.
Consider carrying some energy bars, snacks, and a reusable water bottle to stay nourished and hydrated throughout your trek.
Ensuring access to safe drinking water is crucial during the Lower Dolpo Trek. It’s recommended to avoid tap water and untreated water from natural sources to prevent waterborne illnesses.
Bottled Water: You can purchase bottled water in some of the larger villages along the trek. However, keep in mind that plastic waste is a significant environmental concern in the region, and the availability of bottled water may be limited in remote areas.
Water Purification: Carrying a water purification method, such as water purification tablets or a portable water filter, is a sustainable and effective way to ensure a safe water supply. Make sure to check the reliability of your chosen method and follow the instructions carefully.
Boiling Water: In tea houses, you can ask for boiled water, but it’s essential to plan ahead and allow time for the water to cool before consuming.
Pre-Trek:
Physical Fitness: The Lower Dolpo Trek involves challenging terrains and high altitudes. It’s advisable to engage in a fitness routine leading up to your trek, focusing on cardiovascular and strength exercises.
Medical Check-up: Consult with a healthcare professional before your trek, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions. Discuss altitude sickness prevention, vaccinations, and any necessary medications.
Altitude Acclimatization: Acclimatization days are built into the trek itinerary, allowing your body to adjust gradually to the increasing altitude. It’s crucial to follow the recommended schedule to minimize the risk of altitude-related issues.
Post-Trek:
Rest and Recovery: After completing the trek, allow your body ample time for rest and recovery. Adequate sleep and relaxation are essential to help your body recuperate from the physical exertion.
Hydration and Nutrition: Continue to prioritize hydration and nutrition post-trek. Replenish your body with nutritious meals and plenty of fluids.
Medical Attention: If you experience any lingering health concerns post-trek, seek medical attention promptly. It’s essential to address any issues to ensure a complete recovery.
Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a potential concern during the Lower Dolpo Trek due to the high elevations involved. Here are some crucial dos and don’ts to mitigate the risk of altitude sickness:
Dos:
Acclimatization: Follow the trek itinerary that includes acclimatization days. These days allow your body to adjust gradually to the increasing altitude.
Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids, at least 3 to 4 liters per day, to stay well-hydrated. Dehydration can exacerbate the symptoms of altitude sickness.
Moderate Ascent: Ascend gradually, allowing your body time to acclimatize. Avoid rapid ascents, especially during the initial days of the trek.
Watch for Symptoms: Be vigilant for symptoms of altitude sickness, which include headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Inform your guide immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.
Descend if Necessary: If symptoms persist or worsen, descend to a lower altitude. Immediate descent is the most effective treatment for altitude sickness.
Don’ts:
Rapid Ascent: Avoid rapid ascents without proper acclimatization. Skipping acclimatization days increases the risk of altitude sickness.
Alcohol and Tobacco: Limit alcohol intake and avoid smoking, as they can contribute to dehydration and worsen altitude sickness symptoms.
Overexertion: Avoid overexertion, especially in the early days of the trek. Pace yourself and listen to your body.
Self-Medication: Do not rely solely on medication to mask symptoms. Medication such as acetazolamide can be used to prevent altitude sickness, but it does not replace the need for acclimatization.
In the Lower Dolpo region, electricity availability can be limited, especially in remote areas. Tea houses along the trek may have basic electrical facilities, but it’s essential to be prepared for intermittent power supply. Here are some tips for managing electricity and charging during the trek:
Bring Power Banks: Carry a reliable power bank to charge your essential electronic devices, such as cameras, smartphones, and GPS devices. This is especially important for longer treks where access to electrical outlets may be sporadic.
Adapter and Voltage Considerations: Nepal generally has a 230V voltage supply with a frequency of 50Hz. Make sure you have the appropriate power adapters to charge your devices. Tea houses may have outlets, but they might be limited, so it’s advisable to bring a multi-port USB charger to maximize charging efficiency.
Charging Fees: In some tea houses, you may be charged a fee for charging your devices. The fee is often nominal and contributes to the maintenance of the local power supply.
Prioritize Charging: Take advantage of available charging opportunities whenever possible, even if your devices aren’t fully depleted. It’s better to maintain a consistent charge throughout the trek.
Conservation Strategies: Conserve battery life by turning off unnecessary functions on your devices. Use power-saving modes and avoid using devices in extremely cold conditions, as low temperatures can impact battery performance.
Communication in the Lower Dolpo region can be challenging due to the remote and mountainous terrain. While you shouldn’t expect high-speed internet connectivity, there are some options to stay connected:
Local SIM Card: Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival in Nepal. Ncell and Nepal Telecom are the major providers. This will enable you to make calls and use data in areas with mobile network coverage. Keep in mind that network coverage may be limited in remote areas, and you might experience service gaps.
Wi-Fi in Tea Houses: Some tea houses along the trek may offer Wi-Fi, but the speed and reliability can vary. Understand that the primary purpose of these facilities is to support basic communication needs rather than data-intensive tasks.
Offline Communication Apps: Install offline communication apps, such as WhatsApp or Signal, to stay in touch with fellow trekkers and your trekking guide even when there is no cellular network. These apps allow you to send text messages and make calls over Wi-Fi.
Satellite Phones: In case of emergencies, consider carrying a satellite phone. This ensures communication in areas with no mobile network coverage. However, satellite phones can be relatively expensive and are typically used for critical situations.
Pack according to the season and terrain. Essentials include a good pair of trekking boots, warm clothing, a waterproof jacket, a hat, sunglasses, a backpack, and a first aid kit. Consult your trekking agency for a comprehensive gear list.
Having comprehensive travel insurance is essential for any trek, including the Lower Dolpo Trek. Here are important considerations for your insurance coverage:
In the event of an emergency or serious medical condition during the Lower Dolpo Trek, understanding the rescue and evacuation procedures is crucial. Here’s what you need to know:
The best time for the Upper Dolpo Trek is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is relatively stable. Monsoon (July to August) brings heavy rainfall, and winter (December to February) brings cold temperatures and snow, making trekking challenging. Plan your trek
It is the best way to explore a country as naturally and culturally diverse as Nepal. Aside from immersing in the wonders of nature, you get to meet people who are known for their friendliness and hospitality. The adventurous walk cuts through rhododendron forests (even at lower altitude), streams and rivers, interesting villages, monasteries and monuments and also climbs over glaciers and high altitude viewpoints.
If you are physically fit and guided by a sense of adventure, you would love trekking! The mountains and hills of Nepal have trails that match all abilities. The remotest trails that are mostly unexplored to well-marked trails with ample facilities, Nepal has it all.
The prime challenges trekkers face in the trekking regions are language barrier and navigation. A major section of the trekking regions are uninhabited and in the remaining sections that are, the locals hardly understand English or other foreign languages. Weather conditions and other unanticipated challenges can make it difficult to plan the day’s trek, meals and shelter options. A wrong turn could push you off the trail into harm’s way.
A guide on the other hand, eases things for you, enriches your experience and ensures safety. Guidance that comes from experience and deep local knowledge lets you to enjoy and make the most out of your trip while you leave the arrangements and planning to your guide who becomes an important part of your team.
There is no specific age limit. Trekkers as young as 6 and as old as 75 have trekked in the Himalayas. However, trekkers under the age of 18 are required to be accompanied by a guardian. Younger trekkers should only be brought along if they can be appropriately cared for and can properly communicate any problems to their guardian.
Trekking in the Himalayas can be moderately challenging to difficult based on the terrain, number of trekking days, time of the year and current weather conditions. It also depends on previous trekking experience and skill of the trekker.
It is preferable, but not necessary. However, physical fitness and the ability to cope with strenuous conditions in high altitudes is necessary to make the experience a pleasant one. It is therefore recommended that you begin physical training, involving cardiovascular workout and stamina enhancement months ahead of the trek.
Although the destinations in lower altitude can be trekked throughout the year, Spring (February to May) and Autumn (October to December) are the best times to trek in high altitude. Nepal receives monsoon rain from June through September, which is not a great time to trek. However, the rain shadow areas of Upper Mustang, Dolpo and Nar-Phu offer a great escape during the season. Winter is very cold in the upper mountains with heavy snowfall which cause obstructions in the trekking routes.
A Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card is necessary for most trekking regions. An entrance permit is required for protected areas such as the Annapurna Conservation Area, Sagarmatha National Park and others. Upon confirmation of your booking, we acquire all necessary permits on your behalf.
Most of our treks range from one to four weeks.
The average trekking hours is around six hours. It can range from four to eight hours a day depending upon trail conditions, day of the itinerary, and weather conditions.
All treks with an exception of a camping trek include accommodation in a mountain lodge or guest house for overnight stays and meals.
Teahouse trekking is a popular trekking option wherein trekkers stay at cozy local tea houses in the mountainous regions on a full-board basis. This trekking style is preferred by most trekkers who do not want to carry the additional burden of tent, food supplies and other daily necessities.
Camping trek involves spending the night in designated outdoor campsites at the end of each trekking day. The team caters to all your meals and you sleep in tents. We have a team of professional cook and support staff in addition to guides and porters.
During the trek, we provide as much chlorinated water as you need. You may also refill your bottles at refreshment stops or at the hotel if you happen to carry chlorine tablets or other water purification options. You can also buy bottled water along the trail on most treks. A liter of bottled water ranges from USD 1 in shops and teahouses at lower elevation up to USD 4 in high altitude teahouses.
Most trekking trips involve eating at teahouses or lodges along the trail. These facilities have existed for quite some time at key places and have been serving trekkers and travelers with hygienic food and shelter. Most lodges source the ingredients from their own organic kitchen garden.
You can find common continental and oriental dishes on the menu while the staple dal-bhat-tarkari (lentil soup-rice-vegetable or meat curry) is the specialty almost everywhere. It is recommended that you stick to vegetarian dishes while on trek as the meat available is not refrigerated and therefore unsafe to consume. Although the menu gets limited as you ascend higher, it is common to find dal-bhat and noodles with soup almost anywhere. You may be surprised to find good bakeries in high altitude villages in the Everest and Annapurna region though.
The nationwide expansion of mobile network has made it possible to enjoy 4G and 3G network in most parts of the trek up to moderate altitude. A simcard for NCell and NTC, the leading mobile telecommunications providers can easily be availed. Uninterrupted connection however is greatly affected by weather conditions and terrain. More high altitude remote areas like the Everest base camp require satellite phones.
A good level of overall fitness, sound health and stamina is necessary to go on and enjoy the trek. If you have any chronic or acute health condition, we recommend that you consult your physician before signing up for the trip.
It is a known fact that oxygen levels at higher altitudes are significantly lower than the level that we are used to and the body needs to adjust to this change in atmosphere. The best way to aid acclimation is to climb slowly. We have prepared our itinerary to allow enough time for acclimation and not put too much of strain on the body. Adequate acclimation days, a combination of rest and a short hike have been arranged to further support the process. Minor symptoms of altitude sickness include severe, persistent headache, coughing, pressure in the chest, shortness of breath even while at rest, dizziness, tiredness, loss of appetite and others. It is vital you constantly monitor your health condition and report any signs of sickness to your team leader.
With gradual ascent of altitude, prolonged exposure to increased solar radiation can harm our skin and eyes. Fresh snow in high altitudes reflect hazardous levels of UV rays that can cause much damage, especially to the eyes. It is thus vital to adequately protect them. Use of hats, long-sleeved clothing, sunblock lotion with adequate SPF and goggles are strongly recommended.
If you fall sick or get injured despite precautions, our first-aid trained guides would be your first help. Depending upon the nature of sickness or injury, you would either be immediately taken to a lower altitude (in case of altitude sickness) or evacuated by a rescue helicopter for medical attention. We would require your insurance details to arrange for a rescue helicopter if you are injured in a remote area and in no condition to trek further.
Safety of all our guests is our utmost priority. Nepal has been well-known as a safe destination and the Nepalese as friendly and welcoming people. We generally trek in small groups in constant care and company of our experienced and expert guides. The places that we frequently utilize as our stops have been known to be reliable and safe over the years that we have been served. As such the safety of all travelers is ensured.
Your insurance is mandatory and should cover emergency air ambulance and/or helicopter rescue services and all related medical expenses for injury, death, loss of baggage, theft and trip cancellation. Please ensure that all activities and destinations in the itinerary are included in your policy, specifically mountaineering or alpinism. You are required to send in you insurance details while booking the trip. For more information, please refer to Useful trek info.
Please refer to our detailed packing list for guidance. It is important that you consider your trekking route and the season you would be trekking in to pack adequately and properly. You would neither want to be underprepared for the freezing high mountains nor burdened with extra clothing and gears you would hardly use. Broadly speaking, a good quality backpack, down jacket (rated up to -10ºC), a warm fleece jacket, moisture-wicking top, trekking pants and shorts, thermal underwear, a pair of comfortable boots, woolen socks with extras, woolen caps, hat, scarves, UV protection goggles, trekking poles, water bottle and a good quality sleeping bag are the essentials. If you happen to miss out any items, you can easily purchase or rent any gears or supplies in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
The maximum weight of baggage per person on a mountain flight is 15 kg including hand carry, so please make sure you do not carry any extra items that you would hardly use on trek. This is also to strictly ensure that our porters are not overburdened. Any additional baggage that you bring along would be subject to additional cost from the airlines company and for hiring of an extra porter.
A sturdy yet comfortable pair of walking boots with ankle support is recommended for trekking. Always pick a broken-in pair of boots over new ones to prevent blisters and other inconveniences while on trek. The soles must be thick enough to protect your feet from sharp rocks and have a good tread for grip. If possible, opt for water-resistant boots that help keep your feet dry. Use woolen socks to keep your feet warm and do not forget to pack in extra pairs. A pair of crampons makes walking on ice easy.
A porter carries 10 to 12 kg per person of your baggage depending upon the trekking route, altitude and weather conditions. We allocate one porter for every two trekkers. A camping porter carries more.
Tipping your guide and porter is not obligatory, but it has become a standard practice to tip your guide and porter in Nepal in appreciation of their care and service. Most of the guides and locals belong to communities in the trekking regions and even a small support can help them look after their families better. Although the tip amount depends upon your satisfaction and financial conditions, trekkers normally tip around 15% of the trip cost.
ExcellentBased on 318 reviewsDavid M2023-06-27Excellent all round Completed the three peaks pass with access Nepal. Hiked for 15 days straight. Found a couple of day’s challenging. The challenge made the adventure even more special. Found access Nepal to be a great company. Everything was organised and constant communication between their office and our designated go between. Our guide Subodh was fantastic. Provided plenty information on cultural landmarks along the walk and of Nepal itself. He encouraged us to go at our own pace and was flexible with the path to make some days easier and catch up on other days. We had 3 sherpas Netra, yubaraj and Dipesh. These guys are beasts and well deserve a generous tip. All in all the trip was fantastic and the price for the trip was on the low side compared to other tour companies and they are a local company that rely on word of mouth. Would book them in again when going back to Nepal. David (Australia)Fernanda M2023-06-07Guaranteed support and unique experience with Access I did the Three Passes Trekking with Access and I can assure you that it was the best experience of my life. Sadhana gave me all the support a few weeks before the trip, organized the itinerary, a guide gave me all the tips before the trip, clothes, health, itinerary, tips and everything else. In addition to everything, Lakpa was my guide, I don't know what would have become of me without him, he recognized the moments when I was very tired, he arranged all my organization for a peaceful stay in the lodges and he gave me a lot of support. Anyway, I recommend Access with my eyes closed, I want and will go back to Nepal in the near future and do other trekkings. It was my life's dream come true!Marita R2023-05-28Fantastic company that will give you the experience of a lifetime! This is our second time going with Access Nepal, this time for our honeymoon, and it was just as fantastic the second time around. It's an absolutely lovely company that will handle your trip as professionally as possible, from arriving at the airport to leaving again. They listen to your needs and wishes, and customize the trip accordingly. We are always incredibly well taken care of by one of the managers, Sadhana, who is a dear friend by now, who always does anything she can to make the trip the absolute best it can be. And we couldn't have asked for better company or a more trustworthy guide than our guide Giri. The company has very high standards as to how they treat and compensate their staff, and its really visible in the content and pride shown by all of their staff members. As for the treks they offer, we've done both the Everest three high passes and the Manaslu circuit now, and both have been absolutely mind-blowing. There really is no other place in the world like the Himalayas. Every single part; the Jeep ride into the areas, the high roads, the mountain sides, the mountains following your every step; everything is just absolutely amazing. It's too amazing to describe in words or pictures. I can't tell you anything but to GO!!! It's well, well, well worth the time and cost!!Alcenir2023-05-273 passes with Accsess Nepal I had one of the best experiences of my life with Accsess Nepal, in the mountains of Nepal. To go to the Everest Base Camp is a dream of many. However, I wanted a little bit more, so I chose the "Everest 3 High Passes - 19 days" trek. Incredible. The sights and people of this wonderful place will remain etched in my memory forever. The company provided all the administrative support for my arrival in Kathmandu, through Sadhana. She was always very prompt with my various questions and ensured a perfect organization for my comfort and safety. And, finally, Devman. He was our guide during the trek. A first-rate professional. Very concerned about the safety of the group. Knowledgeable about the mountain and the fantastic Nepalese culture. He ensured that everyone individually enjoyed the best possible experience on this spectacular trek. I really recomend this company and if you can, choose Devman as your guide. Enjoy the mountain!Izabele F2023-05-22It was worth waiting so many years I did the Everest Base Camping trek with this agency and it was much better than I expected. I made the trip alone and received all the support from Sadhana and had the most partner guide along with the porter. I felt safe and respected the entire time. We form a family and enjoy every day with great joy. This trip will stay forever in my memory and heart. Very grateful to the entire Access Nepal family, especially my guide Sobodh for all his care and teachings.Girish B2023-05-03Grand tour of Nepal Our whole trip to Nepal was excellent from the tailor made itinerary organized by Pratap to the internal transfers by car. The whole trip was professionally organized after several discussions until it was exactly as we wanted and the tour company did not fail us. Our guide Bimal was very protective and very knowledgeable and the driver Laxman was safe and very experienced. I would definitely recommend this company to friends and family as we got the exact trip that we wanted and expected. The hotels selected were fantastic throughout. If we were to do this trip again we would fly internally rather than drive as the roads were not that great. Thankyou Pratap for a memorable trip. Girish and Leena Bhome (UK)Vro v2023-05-02Perfect! They are very professional my trip to Langtang with "Access Nepal" was perfect, wonderful and great. I would repeat with them in ny futures trip to Nepal .Thanks for everthing Access Nepal! :)Arancha E2023-05-01Valle Langtang Creo que he conseguido realizar uno de mis grandes sueños pero no hubiera sido lo mismo sin esta gran familia de guías y sherpas , ellos han conseguido que me sintiera super segura y sobre todo han conseguido que el trekking que he realizado con otras 22 personas se volviera todo como en un cuento de hadas. Super profesionales y muy muy atentos en todo momento, facilitandonos el día a día. Muchísimas graciasBeatriz T2023-05-01Conectar con lo esencial Me encanto, fue una experiencia muy positiva todo , las calles , los templos un lugar muy seguro con muchas tradicionesArturo2023-04-24Thanks Acces Nepal for the amazinn Langtang Valley Trek!! Spectacular trekking through the Langtang Valley, with wonderful views and a great feeling of peace and nature. The guides (Nava and Vicas) are excellent, very professional, always attentive to any customer need. The porters are very nice and hard workers. And the people in charge of the company welcomed us and said goodbye very kindly, always with smiles and nice words. Namaste Acces Nepal!!
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