Dolpo Region Treks

Dolpo Region Treks Overview

Dolpo is one of Nepal’s most underrated and remote regions. It has been closed to visitors for a long time but recently reopened to tourists. It first opened to foreigners in 1989, which sparked interest from travel lovers. The book The Snow Leopard by Peter Matthiessen and the movie Himalaya Caravan by Eric Valli showcased Dolpo’s stunning beauty to travel enthusiasts, increasing its reputation and attracting trekkers worldwide.

Due to the increased popularity, the trekkers are researching some of the best trekking destinations in the Dolpo region of Nepal. Every year, the number of trekkers visiting the Dolpo region increases due to the rise in popularity and the advertisement of the region; however, it is still short of the mark due to unreliableness and extreme trekking conditions. Some of the major attractions of Dolpo region treks are remote restricted areas, ancient culture and traditions, restricted regions, tough and adventurous treks, etc. So, let’s get into some of the popular Dolpo region treks you need to experience once in your lifetime.

Popular Dolpo Region Treks

The Dolpo region is filled with amazing trekking destinations. Since access to this region is restricted, the treks are tough, remote, and the adventure of a lifetime. So, let’s explore some of the popular Dolpo region treks.

Lower Dolpo Trek – Starts at $2199

The 18 Days Lower Dolpo is an underrated trekking package in the Dolpo region. During this trek, you will explore the remote and never-explored places of the Dolpo region and eventually reach the stunning Shey Phoksundo Lake. On your journey to this amazing remote destination, you will pass through different types of landscapes, such as remote villages, lush jungles, wide meadows, and tough ascents and descents.

The main attraction of this trek is the largest national park in Nepal, Shey-Phoksundo National Park; another highlight is Shey-Phoksundo Lake, which is entirely fish-free, as shown by its clear waters. The lake is surrounded by forests, rocks, and snowy mountains, so it is regarded among the world’s natural wonders. The trek through the Dolpo region also consists of two high passes, Bagala Pass at 5,169 meters and Numala Pass at 5,115 meters. During this trek, the trekkers will not only stroll through remote places but also see stunning views of the mountains like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Kyangyu Ripa, and Fishtail.

25 Days Upper Dolpo Trek

The Upper Dolpo trek is even longer and more difficult than the Lower Dolpo trek. This trek takes from 20 to 25 days in the remote wilderness area of the Dolpo region. In this trek, the trekkers will reach different renowned places like Nepalgunj, Phoksundo, Forest Camp, Nangdalo Base Camp, Shey Gumba, Namgung Gumba, Yangjer Gumba, Jyanta Bhanyang Phedi, and others. You will also visit different small and remote villages like Juphal, Dunai, Rechi, Saldang, Sugugaon, and Dho Tarap, where you will stay in the teahouses of the said villages.

The main attractions of the Upper Dolpo region are the trek along the Shey Phoksundo village and Shey Phoksundo Lake. The Upper Dolpo trek is not for new climbers or inexperienced trekkers, as it is among the most difficult trek in Nepal. This trek passes through rough and rugged terrains, high passes, and camping in remote conditions at high altitudes. However, the reward at the end of the challenge is exciting and makes all the tough passes through the terrain worth it.

Why Trek in the Dolpo Region?

Dolpo region is an extremely beautiful trekking spot, but it is not as popular as Everest and Annapurna region. However, this trek is equally challenging as the Mustang region, so people looking for an alternative can explore this region. Hence, many trekkers outside Nepal are unaware of this region and don’t know why they should trek in the Dolpo region. So let’s get into it.

Different from City Life

When trekkers arrive in Kathmandu, they experience the richness of infrastructure and city life; however, when they reach the remote Dolpo region, they will realize that there are different ways of life than the bustling city lights. The remote settlements and villages challenge trekkers who are used to constantly living in the infrastructure.

Cultural Immersion

Dolpo has a unique blend of Tibetan Buddhist and pre-Buddhist Bon cultures since people’s ancestors migrated from Tibet. During this region trek, you will meet the locals and visit old temples and monasteries, as people follow Buddhism as their primary culture. Despite being in such harsh conditions and having little infrastructure, people are highly welcoming and treat you with a smile. The chance to learn about different cultures and traditions is the ultimate attraction of any trek.

Diverse Flora and Fauna

The Dolpo region is also popular for its diverse plants and animals. Their range of floras includes deciduous and coniferous forests, with trees like birch, Himalayan cedar, rhododendrons, and pines across the region. Along with endangered plants, the region is also home to endangered animals like snow leopard, Himalayan Tahr, Musk deer, and Himalayan Black Bear. Additionally, notable bird species in Lower Dolpo include the Himalayan monal, snow partridge, Eurasian sparrowhawk, bearded vulture, and Himalayan griffon.

Explore Phoksundo Lake

Another major reason for choosing the Dolpo region is exploring Shey Phoksundo Lake. This Lake was formed by a landslide over 30,000 years ago. The waters of Phoksundo flow over a waterfall that is 167 meters tall, creating a beautiful scene. In the right season, the lake is full, and the area around it is filled with lush pine forests and blooming flowers. You might also see rare animals like blue sheep, Himalayan Thar, and even snow leopards drinking at the waterfall. Phoksundo Lake is a hidden natural wonder. However, it is a sacred place for the Buddhists and Bon people of the region, so trekkers are not allowed to swim or take a dip in the lake.

Dolpo Trekking Difficulty Levels

The Dolpo Trekking region provides different levels of difficulty. First of all, you will begin the Dolpo region you will begin in the easier portion of the trek. As you increase altitude and reach inner Dolpo, the difficulty level of the trek also increases. There are tiers to the difficulty level that the trekkers face during the Dolpo region trek. When the trekkers climb the altitude and reach the remote area of the trek, the difficulty level of the trek increases tenfold.

Trekking in Dolpo is challenging but also very rewarding. Trekkers can enjoy beautiful landscapes, including stunning mountains, clear lakes, and ancient monasteries. They can also experience the unique culture and traditions of the local people, who have kept their way of life for generations. With careful planning and a sense of adventure, trekking in Dolpo can be an amazing experience.

Tips for Trekking in the Dolpo Region

Dolpo region is one of the toughest treks in Nepal. The trekkers have to reach the remote destination of Nepal, where the infrastructure is not up to the mark. There are few services and facilities like restaurants, hotels, medical centers, and pubs, so trekkers have to adjust to the situation. Although the trekking experience is challenging, it is equally rewarding as well.

• Respect the Tibetan culture and traditions of the people inhabiting the region.
• Make sure you choose the trekking itinerary with acclimatization or the rest days to avoid altitude sickness.
• Stay in the teahouse or lodge in the winter or Autumn, and enjoy summer camping.
• Ensure you are well trained and prepared, as the Dolpo region is among the toughest parts of Nepal.
• Ensure you issue all the permits and documents, including the restricted area permit.
• Upper and Lower Dolpo are high-altitude treks, so taking medication for altitude sickness is wise.
• Keep yourself hydrated and eat nutritious food to avoid falling ill or getting altitude sickness.
• Hire an authorized Nepal trekking guide and porter for easy navigation, safety, and security.