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Dolpo Phoksundo Trek - 17 Days

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Trip Facts
Duration
17 Days
Difficulty Level
Moderate
Region
Dolpo
Group Size
Max-12
Activities
Trekking
Season
Spring and Autumn

The Lower Dolpo region in the remote western part of Nepal is a unique trekking destination that has gained popularity among travelers since it was opened to foreigners in 1989. This area is known as the 'hidden treasure of Nepal' due to its remote location and fascinating natural surroundings. The Shey Phoksundo National Park, the largest in Nepal with an area of 3,555 square kilometers, was established in 1984 to protect the natural habitat of animals such as snow leopards and blue sheep.

The Lower Dolpo Trek is a challenging trek that involves crossing three high passes, leading to the stunning Phoksundo Lake, the deepest lake in Nepal, situated at an altitude of 3,611 meters. The trek also offers an opportunity to witness the daily lifestyle of local people who follow old Tibetan Buddhism and live in remote areas, yet are friendly and hospitable.

The 17-day Dolpo Phoksundo Trek is an incredible experience that combines breathtaking mountain views, high passes, picturesque landscapes, lush valleys, and beautiful lakes, with a unique Tibetan Buddhist culture and traditional lifestyle. Visitors can also explore Buddhist monasteries, and the Tibetan plateau, and immerse themselves in the local culture.

Dolpo Phoksundo Trek Highlights

  • Trekking through the remote and isolated Lower Dolpo region of western Nepal.
  • Crossing three high passes: Kagamara La (5,115m), Baga La (5,190m), and Numa La (5,159m).
  • Visiting the stunning Phoksundo Lake, the deepest lake in Nepal at an altitude of 3,611 meters.
  • Exploring the Shey Phoksundo National Park, the largest in Nepal, which is home to snow leopards and blue sheep.
  • Immersing in the daily lifestyle of the friendly and humble local people and learning about their culture and traditional practices, which are influenced by old Tibetan Buddhism.
  • Visiting Buddhist monasteries and experiencing the unique Tibetan plateau.
  • Trekking through beautiful villages, deep gorges, and remote zones with fascinating flora and fauna.
  • Enjoying the spectacular mountain views, high passes, magnificent landscapes, lush valleys, and beautiful lakes.
Price Per Person
US$3500
US$3900
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Panchanga Adhikari
Panchanga Adhikari
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Dolpo Phoksundo Trek - 17 Days Short Itinerary

Detailed Day-to-Day Itinerary

1DAY

Landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu (1,400 meters)

At the Kathmandu airport's arrival zone, a staff from our service will be waiting for you with your nameplate. Once you arrive, the staff will greet you and take you to your accommodation in Kathmandu. A description of our arrangements will be provided to you by the hotel when you check in.

Meals
Welcome Drinks
2DAY

Flight from Kathmandu (1300m/4,264ft) to Nepalgunj (150m/492ft)

Today you will fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, a journey that takes about an hour. During the flight, you will be able to enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas. Once you arrive in Nepalgunj, you will have some free time to explore the area and acclimatize to the warmer weather. You can visit some of the local markets and try some of the delicious local food.

Meals
B
Max Altitude
430m (1,410ft)
Duration
1 hr flight
3DAY

Flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal (2,475m/8,120 ft) and trek to Dunai (2,140m/7,020 ft)

After a hearty breakfast, you will fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal and start trekking towards Dunai. The trek will take about 3-4 hours, covering a distance of approximately 8-10 km. You will pass through beautiful landscapes, including lush forests, sparkling rivers, and quaint villages. Along the way, you will also have the chance to interact with locals and learn about their culture and traditions.

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
2,475m (8,120ft)
Distance
8-10 km
Duration
3-4 Hrs
4DAY

Trek from Dunai to Lingdo (2,391m/7,844 ft)

Today's trek will take you from Dunai to Lingdo, which will take around 5-6 hours, covering a distance of approximately 12-14 km. You will climb steadily and cross the suspension bridge over the Thuli Bheri River. During the trek, you will have the opportunity to take in the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding hills and valleys, and to spot wildlife such as musk deer and blue sheep.

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
2,391m (7,844ft)
Distance
12-14 km
Duration
5-6Hrs
5DAY

Trek from Lingdo to Laina Odar (3,370m/11,056 ft)

On this day, you will trek from Lingdo to Laina Odar, which is located at an altitude of 3,370m. The trek will take around 6-7 hours, covering a distance of approximately 15-17 km. You will climb steeply up a ridge and cross another suspension bridge before reaching the village of Laisicap. The final stretch of the trek takes you through a beautiful forest of rhododendron and juniper trees.

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
3,370m (11,056ft)
Distance
15-17 km
Duration
6-7 hours
6DAY

Trek from Laina Odar to Nawarpani (3,475m/11,401 ft)

Today's trek will take you from Laina Odar to Nawarpani, which is located at an altitude of 3,475m. The trek will take around 4-5 hours, covering a distance of approximately 10-12 km. You will cross the river and follow the trail to Chhyugar, from where you will climb up to Nawarpani. The trail offers some stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Mt. Dhaulagiri, the seventh-highest mountain in the world.

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
3,478m (11,410ft)
Distance
15-17 km
Duration
6-7 hours
7DAY

Trek from Nawarpani to Sisaul (3,750m/12,303 ft)

On this day, you will trek from Nawarpani to Sisaul, which is located at an altitude of 3,750m. The trek will take around 4-5 hours, covering a distance of approximately 10-12 km. You will pass through beautiful forests of pine, fir, and birch, and cross several streams and suspension bridges. The final stretch of the trek is quite steep and challenging, but the stunning views of the mountains make it all worth it.

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
3,750m (12,303ft)
Distance
10-12 km
Duration
4-5Hrs
8DAY

Trek from Sisaul to Dho Tarap (4,080m/13,385 ft)

Today's trek will take you from Sisaul to Dho Tarap, which is located at an altitude of 4,080m. The trek will take around 4-5 hours, covering a distance of approximately 10-12 km. You will climb steadily up a steep ridge and cross several streams and bridges before reaching the village of Dho Tarap. Along the way, you will be able to enjoy stunning views of the mountains and interact with locals who live in this remote area.

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
4,082m (13,392ft)
Distance
10-12 km
Duration
4-5Hrs
9DAY

Trek from Dho Tarap to Numala Base Camp (4,440m/14,563 ft)

On this day, you will trek from Dho Tarap to Numala Base Camp, which is located at an altitude of 4,440m. The trek will take around 4-5 hours, covering a distance of approximately 10-12 km. You will climb steadily up a ridge and cross several streams and suspension bridges before reaching Numala Base Camp. The views of Dho Tarap valley and the surrounding peaks from Numala Base Camp are breathtaking.

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
4,440m (14,566ft)
Distance
10-12 km
Duration
4-5 hrs
10DAY

Trek from Numala Base Camp to Danigar (4,631m/15,190 ft) via Numa La Pass (5,318m/17,448 ft)

Today's trek is one of the most challenging days of the entire trek. You will start early in the morning and trek from Numala Base Camp to Danigar via Numa La Pass, which is situated at an elevation of 5,318m. The trek will take around 6-7 hours, covering a distance of approximately 12-14 km. The trek to Numa La Pass is steep and strenuous, but the views from the top are worth all the effort. You will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. After spending some time at the pass, you will descend down to Danigar, which is located at an altitude of 4,631m.

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
5,318m (17,447ft)
Distance
12-14 km
Duration
6-7Hrs
11DAY

Trek from Danigar to Yak Kharka (3,982m/13,058 ft) via Baga La (5,190m/17,023 ft)

On this day, you will trek from Danigar to Yak Kharka via Baga La, which is located at an altitude of 5,190m. The trek will take around 6-7 hours, covering a distance of approximately 12-14 km. The trek to Baga La is steep and challenging, but once you reach the top, you will be treated to stunning views of the Kanjirowa Himal range. From Baga La, you will descend down to Yak Kharka, which is located at an altitude of 3,982m.

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
5,190m (17,027ft)
Distance
12-14 km
Duration
6-7 Hrs
12DAY

Trek from Yak Kharka to Ringmo/Phoksundo Lake (3,611m/11,847 ft)

Today's trek is relatively easy and takes around 3-4 hours. You will trek from Yak Kharka to Ringmo/Phoksundo Lake, which is located at an altitude of 3,611m. The trek is mostly downhill and follows the beautiful Phoksundo River. You will pass through several small villages and dense forests before reaching Ringmo, a small village situated on the banks of Phoksundo Lake. Phoksundo Lake is one of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes in the world, and its crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding snow-capped peaks.

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
3,611m (11,847ft)
Distance
8-10 km
Duration
3-4 Hrs
13DAY

Trek from Phoksundo Lake to Chhepka (2,838m/9,311 ft) via Rechi (2,940m/9,646 ft)

On this day, you will trek from Phoksundo Lake to Chhepka via Rechi. The trek will take around 7-8 hours, covering a distance of approximately 18-20 km. The trek is mostly downhill and follows the Phoksundo River for the first few hours. After crossing the river, you will climb uphill for a while before descending down to Chhepka, which is located at an altitude of 2,838m. Chhepka is a small village with a few tea houses and guesthouses.

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
2,940m (9,645ft)
Distance
18-20 km
Duration
7-8 Hrs
14DAY

Trek from Chhepka to Juphal (2,475m/8,120 ft)

Today is the last day of trekking, and you will trek from Chhepka to Juphal, which is located at an altitude of 2,475m. The trek will take around 6-7 hours, covering a distance of approximately 14-16 km. The trek is mostly downhill and follows the Thuli Bheri River. You will pass through several small villages and dense forests before reaching Juphal. Upon reaching Juphal, you can explore the town and enjoy the local cuisine.

Meals
B,L,D
Max Altitude
2,475m (8,120ft)
Distance
14-16 km
Duration
6-7hr
15DAY

Flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj (150m/492ft)

On this day, you will take a flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj. The flight will take around 35 minutes, covering a distance of 125 km. Once you arrive in Nepalgunj, you can rest and explore the city. Nepalgunj is a vibrant city with a mix of Nepali and Indian cultures. You can visit local markets, try some delicious street food, and interact with locals to learn about their lifestyle and customs. You can also visit some historical sites such as the Bageshwori Temple or the Muslim bazaar.

Meals
B
Duration
35 mins flight
16DAY

Flight from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu (1300m/4,264ft)

This is your final day of the trek. You will take a flight from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu, which will take approximately 1 hour and cover a distance of 430 km. Once you arrive in Kathmandu, you can rest and reflect on your trekking experience. You can visit some of the famous tourist attractions in Kathmandu such as the Swayambhunath Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Durbar Square. You can also explore the streets of Thamel, a popular tourist hub, and buy some souvenirs to take back home. 

You will have a farewell dinner with the staffs and discuss the trek in the evening.

Meals
B,D
17DAY

Departure from Kathmandu

This is the day of farewell where you accomplish the journey and leave for your home. Three hours prior to your boarding time, our staff will receive you from your hotel and drop you off at the Tribhuvan International Airport. We really enjoyed hosting you. Many thanks for having us and safe travels returning home.

Meals
B
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Cost Details

Trip Includes

  • All kinds of transportation services, notably private vehicles and airport shuttles.
  • 2 nights lodging plus breakfast at a 3-starred tourist standard Kathmandu hotel.
  • Accommodation throughout the hike (mostly tent and small camps).
  • Breakfast, day meal, and supper are all included in the full board hike package, along with tea and coffee.
  • One incredibly skilled, accommodating, and necessary porter, and all of the staff's meals, lodging, and so on.
  • Administrative fees and governmental taxes.
  • Hot bag for a goodnight's sleep.
  • Emergency Rescue Arrangement service which will be funded by your travel insurance.
  • First-aid supplies include an oxygen meter to check pulse rate.
  • Energy Supplements (Cookies, chocolate bar, etc.) once in a day.
  • Farewell dinner in a typical Nepali kitchen.

Trip Excludes

  • Your entrance visa and international travel costs.
  • Meals not listed in the "Daily food Inclusions".
  • Personalized hiking kit.
  • Traveling insurance.
  • Tips for guide and porter.
  • Drinks, snacks, water as well as other individual needs and expenses.

Dolpo Phoksundo Trek - 17 Days Departure Dates

Essential Information

Ideal Season for Dolpo Phoksundo Trekking

When heading for a hike, one needs to be mindful of the season they decide to go. And what exactly time of year is ideal for Dolpo Phoksundo Trekking? Hiking Bees advise you to reserve this excursion for the spring and autumn seasons.

Through splitting these seasons further, spring lasts from March to May. These are pleasant hiking months because of the milder weather. During this season, the flowers are in full bloom, and the pathway is lined with petals and leaves. Autumn, which lasts from September to November, is the second-optimal season. These months are characterized by vibrant clouds and a refreshing atmosphere. Normally, we advise avoiding hikes to Dolpo Phoksundo in the summer. Although, Hiking Bees would be pleased to plan a suitable Himalayan trip to the Dolpo Phoksundo if your timetable for visiting Nepal is scheduled during the summer.

Suggested Preparation: 

To undertake the Dolpo Phoksundo Trekking, you should have a good level of physical fitness and stamina. You should start preparing for the trek at least 2-3 months before the trek. Some of the suggested preparations include:

Physical Preparation:

Dolpo Phoksundo Trek is a physically demanding trek that requires a good level of fitness and stamina. You should start preparing for the trek at least 2-3 months in advance. Some of the physical preparation you can do include:

 Regular exercise: Start doing cardio exercises such as running, cycling, or swimming to improve your endurance and stamina.

Strength training: Incorporate strength training exercises such as squats, lunges, and leg presses to build leg muscles and increase your overall strength.

Altitude training: You can train your body for high altitude by doing stair climbing, hiking, or trekking on nearby hills or mountains.

Mental preparation:

Mental preparation is equally important for as physical preparation. You should be mentally prepared for the challenges of the trek and be positive and determined throughout the journey.

Research: Research about the trek, its challenges, and the culture and customs of the region. This will help you to have realistic expectations and avoid culture shock.

Meditation: Meditation helps to calm your mind and improve your mental strength. You can start with short meditation sessions and gradually increase the duration and frequency.

Positive Attitude: Having a positive attitude helps you to overcome challenges and enjoy the journey. You should focus on the beautiful scenery and the experience rather than the difficulties.

Dolpo Phoksundo Trekking by Hiking Bees

Hiking Bees is a professional Nepalese trekking company with a team of professional guides, who efficiently run a variety of treks and vacations. Locals from the region where you will be hiking serve as our guides and carriers. They are knowledgeable in hike routes and schedules and have received extensive training. Dolpo Phoksundo Trekking is unquestionably a fantastic, ideal location for trekkers. We also suggest other lengthy alternatives if you're searching for other variations of Dolpo Phoksundo Trekking.

With Hiking Bees, you can travel anywhere for a reasonable price, capture your precious moments, and enjoy your vacation. You may schedule your upcoming travel with us straight away!!

How challenging is Dolpo Phoksundo Trekking?

The Dolpo Phoksundo Trekking is the most popular and demanding hiking destination based on the unexplored trekking trails as well as feedback from hikers. Experienced trekkers won't struggle on this walk, but newcomers may encounter some challenges. As this is a high-altitude trek with unpaved roads, normal people can have difficulties in breaking and walking. 

However, there is always a workaround. Beginners may get ready for this hike by adding these practices to their daily routine: Walking at dusk and at dawn, Remaining hydrated, Meditation and Yoga, Remaining hydrated, Nutritional diets, Jogging, Going to Gym, and so on.

You should plan your trip with warm clothes and comfortable boots for a pleasant hike along with raincoats or umbrellas as the weather of the Himalayan region is mostly drizzly. When in the journey, we are here to ease your hike with the availability of guides, who will give you directions and porters, who will carry your luggage and oxygen cylinders.

So if you are an enthusiast and an adventure-loving person, now is the chance to explore the Dolpo Phoksundo Trek – 17 days with Hiking Bees.

Need Help? Call Us+977 9860617338