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Lower Dolpo Gyaekuchen Trek

26 Days

The Lower Dolpo Trek is a remarkable journey into one of the most remote and picturesque regions of western Nepal. This trek, nestled in the rain shadow of the Dhaulagiri range, offers breathtaking landscapes and cultural immersion. Situated within Shey Phoksundo National Park—the largest in Nepal—it is celebrated as one of the finest offbeat treks in Nepal, showcasing pristine natural beauty and unique cultural experiences.

Dolpo’s inhabitants, primarily Tibetan Buddhists, have preserved their traditional way of life in this harsh environment. Their vibrant customs and spiritual practices distinguish the region as a hidden gem of Dolpo. Ancient monasteries like the thousand-year-old Shey Gompa and tranquil villages add to the trek’s cultural allure. For those seeking more adventure, the Gyaekuchen Trek extends into even more secluded and less-explored trails, offering an unparalleled experience.

The trek features alpine and sub-alpine landscapes adorned with juniper, birch, willow, and rhododendron trees. In spring and summer, grasslands and meadows come alive with vibrant wildflowers, creating an idyllic setting for trekking in Dolpo. Highlights include stunning views of iconic peaks like Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, as well as the turquoise waters of Shey Phoksundo Lake.

Is Dolpo the hidden land of the Himalayas?

Yes, Dolpo is often called the “hidden land of the Himalayas.” This remote, isolated region in western Nepal offers breathtaking landscapes, rich Tibetan culture, and ancient Bon Po traditions. Known for its rugged terrain and untouched beauty, Dolpo remains one of Nepal’s most offbeat treks.

Spiritual exploration is integral to the Lower Dolpo Trek, with ancient monasteries enriching the trail. This trek is a cornerstone of the Lower Dolpo trekking itinerary, offering a perfect blend of natural splendor and cultural discovery. For adventure enthusiasts wondering how to trek in Gyaekuchen, combining it with Lower Dolpo offers a comprehensive journey through Dolpo’s best-kept secrets.

Whether you’re drawn by rugged landscapes, Tibetan Buddhist traditions, or the serenity of the Himalayas, the Lower Dolpo Trek and Gyaekuchen Trek provide an unforgettable adventure. These trails are ideal for travelers seeking unique experiences on Nepal’s most extraordinary offbeat treks.

If you’re fascinated by the remote beauty and culture of Dolpo, you may also be interested in exploring the Uppder Dolpo Trek.

  • Mid April to Jun and August to October
  • English and French (above 5 Pax French speaking guide)
  • 3 Star Hotel in KTM, Teahouse and Camping during the trek
  • Kathmandu to Kathmandu
  • Bus/jeep and plane
  • Moderate
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 5350m
  • 2-8
  • Well experienced trekking and Cultural guide

An Unforgettable Adventure in Nepal

The Lower Dolpo Trek is a magical journey through some of Nepal’s most stunning landscapes. Known for its serene beauty, the trek showcases the crystal-clear Phoksundo Lake, vast mountain ranges, lush vegetation, and unique local cultures. This trek offers trekkers a chance to experience the hidden gems of Dolpo, including ancient monasteries and traditional villages. Along the way, you’ll learn about the local Bon Po religion, a pre-Buddhist belief system, and gain insight into the customs and traditions of the region.

This trek requires a special permit due to its location in a remote and restricted area of Nepal, although it’s not as strictly regulated as the Upper Dolpo Trek. The Lower Dolpo Trek was officially opened to foreign visitors in 1989, after the southern part of Dolpo was opened for organized trekking groups. Most of the people in this region practice the Bon Po religion, which has a strong presence and is characterized by shamanistic rituals and reverence for mountain gods and spirits.

While the trek itself isn’t overly difficult, certain sections can be strenuous due to the rugged terrain and altitude. It’s important to be prepared with sufficient food, water, warm clothing, and medication for altitude sickness, as well as respect for local customs. Practicing eco-conscious trekking by avoiding littering and respecting the natural environment is essential.

The Lower Dolpo Trek begins at Juphal Airport (2,267m) and follows a route that leads to the picturesque Phoksundo Lake. From there, trekkers can visit Shey Gompa, Ringmo village, and Tshowa village, all part of the Lower Dolpo trekking itinerary. The entire trek typically takes between 18 and 21 days to complete, making it an ideal choice for adventurers seeking an extended trekking experience in the Himalayas.

For those also interested in exploring further, the Gyaekuchen Trek offers a deeper dive into the unexplored areas of Dolpo. If you’re wondering how to trek in Gyaekuchen, this extension to the Lower Dolpo Trek offers a more secluded and less-traveled path, perfect for those who want to uncover more of the hidden gems of Dolpo.

The Lower Dolpo Trek and Gyaekuchen Trek are some of the best offbeat treks in Nepal. These treks combine the beauty of nature, cultural richness, and a sense of adventure. Whether you’re trekking to Phoksundo Lake, learning about the Bon Po religion, or visiting remote villages, this journey offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave you with memories to last forever.

Lower Dolpo Trek Highlights:

  • Visit Shey-Phoksundo National Park, the largest park in Nepal,
  • Explore the remote villages, ancient Buddhist tradition, authentic Nepalese and Tibetan culture and the unique lifestyle of the people,
  • Explore the ancient monasteries, stupas and Bon Po religion,
  • Hike through the picturesque of valley of Dho Tarap, Gyaekochen BC and Schaller trail,
  • Walk along the edge of Phoksundo Lake to get the most stunning views,
  • Enjoy the amazing views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Himalayan ranges,
  • Take to the sacred Crystal Mountain and experience its breathtaking views,

Trek Itinerary

When you arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport, our staff will be waiting you with holding a placard with Himalayan Travelers written in it. He/she will meet, greet and welcome you with an auspicious garland and escort you to your respective hotel. In the Hotel, he will help you to check-in and make a pre-meeting program for the trek and clear your questions/ enquiries if any.

Trek preparation day. Check all the necessary equipments for trekking and make shopping in case of missing some equipments. and We started our Dolpa trek by taking a vehicle to airport for 30 minutes. And we flight to Nepalgunj, stayed overnight there at Nepalgunj.

Early morning, again we took flight to Juphal Dolpa and we started our first walk to Dunai headquarter of Dolpa district. We took 3/4 hours to get into Dunai the first camp of our trek. There is two options; by walking and by taking vehicle to Dunai. We walked along the Bheri River. Dunai is one of the biggest local grocery shop/market. Dunai falls under approximately 2140m.

The trail was mostly easy way through big trail, normally we follow the riverside trekking trail which is the main trekking route. We need to walk about 5 hours on this day. The elevation of Namdo is approximately 2930m.

There is a small settlement and a police check point at Lasicap and on the left side there is long old suspension bridge. After 20 minutes from that suspension bridge, there is another same type of small bridge which takes two ways; one is way to monstery and another is the main trekking trail on the left side which we follow. We took 5-6hours to reach camp. The trail was easy with little pine forests next to the river was our camp. There was a new and small tented tea shop at the elevation of 2775m.

On this day we walked 4-5 hours up stair almost throughout the day through the pine and juniper forest. There was Tarap river on the right side of the trail. The elevation of the trail was approximately 3370m above sea level.

After five minutes straight, walk the up stair starts which takes approximately two hours and when we overlook down to Tarap river we can see the very beautiful landscape. After this we reached a small tea shop which is called Tilba, we trek downward to the river and after we crossed the river we walk straight ahead for about one hour and reached Chhyugar. There is three teahouses at Chhyugar. After 40minute we reached the camp. The elevation of Nawarpani Dovan is 3780m. We took 5-6 hours on this day.

After five minutes straight, walk the up stair starts which takes approximately two hours and when we overlook down to Tarap river we can see the very beautiful landscape. After this we reached a small tea shop which is called Tilba, we trek downward to the river and after we crossed the river we walk straight ahead for about one hour and reached Chhyugar. There is three teahouses at Chhyugar. After 40minute we reached the camp. The elevation of Nawarpani Dovan is 3780m. We took 5-6 hours on this day.

We took straight left side and crossed a river and trek along the river approximately two hours after that there is Kharka which means an open space for settlement of Yaks and goats/sheep. There is also two connected rivers. We climb up stair along the river about three hours to Gyakuchen pass. From the pass we can see the stunning mountain views and we trek down to Yarsha camp. In total it took us 6-7hours.

There is two ways, one is river side another is upper side. Today almost up stair throughout the day with small trekking trail. We took upper way though harder than riverside because of better views. It took us 3hours to reach camp. There is a wonderful lake with stunning mountain views and beautiful landscapes which is suitable for camping as it has open space.

we explored Gyakuchen BC to acclimatize ourselves and also for hiking above 5200m and then got back to camp 4500m. We took our lunch and took rest. We enjoyed our rest day with beautiful mountain views and wonderful lake.

On this day we had adventurous and little harder day because we passed Serela 5410m. At the beginning we climb up stairs till Serela pass and after pass we trek down 2 hours to Serela base camp the destination of the day. It took us 5 hours. From this, we can see massive mountain views and some yaks grazing around.

At the beginning we trek down wards and cross the bridge. There we can see blue sheep, Yaks birds like vulture, eagles etc. We cross another river which is called Kalang Khola. There we get two ways i.e. right side and left side. The right one goes to Kalang and left side goes to Dho. Before reach the Dho Khola, there is camp side on the way beside mani wall and stupa/chorten. And after approximately 40 minutes of walk there is an open space for camp site the destination of the day. It took us 5hours to reach our destination.

Today it is easy day, we walk only two hours to reach the destination of the day. There is a big village which is known as Dho Tarap village. Dho Tarap is a village in Dolpa Buddha Rural Municipality of Dolpa District in the Karnali Zone of north western Nepal. Dho village and it’s neighbor village Lang and Tokyou are collectively known as Dho Tarap village. This village is located at the heart of Dolpo with having approximately 1,500 population. It is one of the highest human settlement in Nepal. Breathtaking landscape, serene rivers and turquoise-colored lakes, spectacular villages, ancient monasteries, stupas and mani walls, distinct vernacular architecture, rich traditions of Bon, Buddhism and Amchi, are some of the things which makes Dho-Tarap and Dolpo in whole, an important place to visit in Nepal.

As we embark on our adventure around the village of Dho Tarap, let's ensure we're dressed comfortably for the exploration ahead. How about a light, breathable cotton shirt adorned with intricate Tibetan-inspired patterns? Its soothing colors will blend harmoniously with the vibrant landscape of prayer flags fluttering in the breeze.
And to complement our attire, let's indulge in a delightful local sweet treat, perhaps a traditional Tibetan dessert made with rich yak butter, honey, and roasted barley flour. Its sweet, nutty flavor will tantalize our taste buds as we immerse ourselves in the cultural delights of Dho Tarap.
Now attired in our comfortable shirts and with a delectable sweet in hand, let's set out to discover the wonders of this enchanting village. From the majestic chortens and serene monasteries to the verdant fields teeming with life, every corner of Dho Tarap promises a feast for the senses. And as we engage with the warm and hospitable locals, we'll be captivated by the echoes of ancient traditions and the vibrant spirit of community that defines this Himalayan gem.

Today no rush because we have short trip 5 hours in maximum and even exciting day with breathtaking landscape and easy terrain. We see a Gompa on the way called Chhamba Gompa and we can also see Yaks and blue sheeps today on the way itself.

Today we trek about three hours from camp to reach pass, the terrains are up, down and straight having beautiful landscapes. We can see stunning mountain views on the way. After we pass Kang La, we have to descend down for about 2 hours and we get into a beautiful lawn. After this, there is another way on the left side but usually we use the right way down as it is easier then the left one. After descend is finished we also have to ascend up for about one and half hours and cross Dhumsi khola(river). There we find one of the best camping place on the top of Chhumju danda and from there we can see beautiful views.

Today it is bit longer camp but extremely beautiful views on the way. We cross three hills and after crossing these hills, we cross a river and after we crossed the river there is three different ways, we took left side down to ease our trek. Today we walk through the gorge crossing about 7-8 rivers. Anyway, 6 hours is the walking day.

At the beginning of the trek we ascend up for about three hours and trek through upper side of the Shyphoksundo lake with exciting beautiful landscapes with different natural sceneries. After one and half hours of walking through Balcony we get into a big open space suitable for camping nearby Shyphoksundo Lake. There we get another way to Shy gompa. From there we can also see beautiful natural sceneries with lake. Today we walk 5 hours to reach our destination.

Today the walking hours is four and half hours. We trek through upper side of the Shyphoksundo lake through pine trees, juniper and other many types of vegetation. The trail is wide up, down and straight today with never ending natural beauties. There is a small village nearby Shyphoksundo lake called Ringmo having stunning views. We camped by the lake, it was so exciting day as we had a beautiful morning sunrise.

Today we visit monastery also police check post after crossing the river. There is also one stupa. After we visit monastery we came back, took rest, read books, had lunch, took laundries and so on.

Today the walking duration is only four hours. After passing Ringmo village there is a river on the left side of the Ringmo gate which is known as Shyphoksundo river. After this river we trek through a wide trekking trail through the pine and juniper forest and there we see a big waterfall on the way. From there we trek down to a small village and cross a river and reach another village called Saijal. There at Saijal village we find gomba, hotels, and schools. Today the trail is easy but we have to cross many suspension bridges. There is a small settlement at Riche village.

Today the walking duration is five hours through the main trekking trail, we cross many bridges and reach Chhepka. Chhepka is a small village having few hotels but not suitable camp. From Chhepka it takes one hour to reach Shangta and after Sangta it takes one hour to reach Kagani. There is a suitable place for camping at Kagani. At Kagani Sunita Hotel is one of the best for camping.

Two hours walking until the place called Sulighat, there is a Check post which is the Dolpa National park entry and after the check post few minutes later there is two connected rivers i.e. Tarap river and Phoksundo. And there is a road connection to Dunai and from there we hire a jeep to Juphal but If you undertake your trek by foot , you have to walk along the road for about one hour and after that you have to trek upward till Juphal through a small village which is also a part of Juphal. If you go on September/October, you will find harvesting season.

Fly back to Nepaljung- Kathmandu and relax at Kathmandu.

Extra day in Kathmandu if required/ visit World heritage sites of Kathmandu.

Departure time.

Cost Includes:

  • All airport pick up drop by private vehicles.
  • 4 nights accommodation in a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj on BB plan.(Twin bedroom sharing).
  • Experience trekking guide, Assistant guide, Cook and Kitchen staff, porters, Mules.
  • Full board service during the trekking.
  • All land transportation and flight tickets Kathmandu-Nepalgunj-Juphal-Nepalgunj-Kathmandu
  • Special Dolpo trekking permit, National park entry fee.
  • Guide and porters wages, foods, transportation, insurance, equipments and all other facilities.
  • Government tax and Local agency service charge.

Cost Excludes:

  • International airfare and Nepal entry visa fee.
  • Insurance (compulsory on all trips – ensure you are adequately covered for emergency evacuation).
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
  • Spending of a personal expenses, e.g. laundry, snacks and bottle drinks, souvenirs, toiletries, tips, etc.

FAQs

What is the best time to trek in Lower Dolpo?

During the autumn moths of September to November and in spring March to May are the best seasons/ time to trek in Lower Dolpo.

How difficult is Lower Dolpo Trek?

The Lower Dolpo Trek is moderately difficult. While the trail is not particularly technical, trekkers should be prepared for long days of walking, varying terrain including steep ascents and descents.

Do I need a permit for Lower Dolpo Trek?

Yes, you need Special Lower Dolpo  Restricted Area Entry Permit, and Shy Phoksundo National Park Entry permits.

What is the Accommodation option during Lower Dolpo trek?

Accommodation options along the Lower Dolpo Trek are limited compared to more popular trekking regions in Nepal. Teahouses and lodges and are available in some villages offering basic facilities and camping are also the options.

Is Altitude sickness a concern on the Lower Dolpo Trek?

Altitude sickness can be a concern on the Lower Dolpo Trek, especially as you ascend to higher elevations. The highest point of the trek, the Numa La Pass, reaches an altitude of over 5,300 meters (17,388 feet). It’s essential to acclimatize properly by taking rest days, staying hydrated, and ascending gradually. If symptoms of altitude sickness occur, descending to a lower altitude is necessary.

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Lower Dolpo Gyaekuchen Trek
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