Continue trekking towards Dunai. Pass through terraced fields and small villages. Reach Dunai, the administrative headquarters of Dolpa. Overnight in Dunai.
Description
Trip Highlights
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Duration 16 Days
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Max Altitude 8485m
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Season March-May/September-November
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Group Size 2-12
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Difficulty moderate
The Lower Dolpa Clockwise Trek is one of Nepal's most extraordinary and exclusive trekking journeys, leading you into the heart of the Dolpa district a remote and restricted area of far western Nepal that remains one of the least visited and most culturally intact regions in the entire Himalaya. At its centre lies Shey Phoksundo Lake, Nepal's deepest lake and one of the most breathtakingly beautiful natural landmarks in all of Asia.
The journey begins with a flight to Nepalgunj and then onward to Juphal, from where the trail enters the Dolpa landscape immediately a world of dramatic river gorges, towering cliffs in shades of red and ochre, and a vast, open silence that feels genuinely unlike anywhere else on earth. The clockwise route circles through traditional Bon and Tibetan Buddhist villages, ancient trade routes, and high ridgelines with sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and plateaus.
The turquoise waters of Shey Phoksundo Lake, set against a backdrop of sheer cliffs and snow-capped peaks, are the undisputed highlight of the trek and one of the most visually stunning sights available on any trekking route in Nepal. The surrounding landscape and the ancient Ringmo village on its shores add a profound cultural and spiritual dimension to the experience that lingers long after the journey ends.
With Virgin Nepal Treks and Expeditions, every detail of this restricted-area trek is managed professionally, including all special permits and remote logistics, so you can immerse yourself completely in one of Nepal's most remarkable and unforgettable destinations.
Culture of the Karnali Region
Dolpa is one of the last places on earth where the ancient Bon religion predating Buddhism in the Himalaya survives alongside Tibetan Buddhist practice in its most authentic and undiluted form. The villages of the lower Dolpa circuit maintain centuries-old traditions of art, ritual, and community life that have been shaped entirely by the demands and rhythms of this extraordinary landscape. Walking through Ringmo village beside Phoksundo Lake and encountering the warmth and quiet dignity of its people is an experience of rare and lasting significance.
Best Season
Spring (March to May): Mild temperatures, clear skies, and the awakening of the high-altitude landscape after winter make spring an excellent season for Lower Dolpa.
Autumn (September to November): Stable weather, outstanding visibility, and comfortable trekking conditions make this the most popular and recommended season for this trek.
Contact our team to plan your Lower Dolpa Clockwise Trek with the right timing and support for you.
Day By Day Itinerary
Arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal. - Transfer to your hotel and rest. - Explore Kathmandu if time permits. - Overnight in Kathmandu.
After breakfast, meet to check your clothing and trekking equipment (sleeping bag, down jacket, and trekking boots). Prepare for obtaining the restricted area permit for Dolpa. Spend the evening in Kathmandu. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Take a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj. - Transfer to your hotel in Nepalgunj. - Overnight in Nepalgunj.
Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal (35 minutes flight). Begin trekking towards Chhepka, passing through terraced fields and local villages. Trek along the Phoksundo River, through forests of pine, birch, and juniper. Overnight in Chhepka.
Trek from Chhepka towards the Tapriza School. Follow the trail along the Phoksundo River. Enjoy the scenic landscapes and interactions with local communities. Visit the Tapriza School, a community school in the remote area. Overnight near Tapriza School.
Continue trekking towards Phoksundo Lake. Enjoy the stunning views of the lake and its turquoise waters. Visit Ringmo village near the lake. Overnight near Phoksundo Lake.
Spend the day sightseeing around Phoksundo Lake. Enjoy the serene and picturesque surroundings of the lake. Explore Ringmo village and visit the Bon Monastery. Take short hikes around the area to view point for panoramic views. Overnight near Phoksundo Lake.
Start trekking from Phoksundo Lake towards Bagala Phedi. Ascend through rocky terrain and yak pastures. Camp at Bagala Phedi, preparing for the pass crossing. Overnight at Bagala Phedi.
Early morning ascent to Bagala Pass. Enjoy breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri and other Himalayan peaks. Descend towards Numa La Phedi. Set up camp at Numa La Phedi. Overnight at Numa La Phedi.
Begin the day with a challenging ascent to Numa La Pass. Cross Numa La Pass, the highest point of the trek. Descend towards Dho Tarap, a traditional Tibetan village. Explore Dho Tarap village and its monasteries. Overnight in Dho Tarap.
Trek towards Laini village. Pass through rugged terrain and scenic landscapes. Camp at Laini, enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Overnight in Laini.
Descend towards Tarakot village. Trek along the Tarap River amidst pine forests. Explore Tarakot village, known for its ancient fortress. Overnight in Tarakot.
Trek from Dunai to Juphal, the endpoint of your trek. Enjoy the final views of the Dolpo region. Overnight in Juphal.
During our return, we will cover more distance as we descend on major parts. We will trek to Sheduwa through Tashi Gaon.
Farewell Friend The journey within the mountains of Nepal comes to an end today! There is nothing to do but we just trade emails to travel companions and organize our photos. If we have more time we can do some shopping or sightseeing. At last approximately 3 hours before our scheduled flight, a representative from Virgin Nepal Trek and Expedition escorts us to the airport. On our way to home we will have plenty of time to plan our next adventure trip in the wonderful country of Nepal.
Inclusion and Exclusion
- Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu
- Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj
- Domestic flights as per itinerary
- Lower Dolpa restricted area permit and national park fees
- TIMS Card
- Experienced English-speaking guide and porter
- Tea house and camping accommodation as per itinerary
- All meals during the trek
- First aid kit and emergency coordination
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
- International airfare and Nepal visa fee
- Personal travel and rescue insurance
- Personal trekking gear and equipment
- Snacks, beverages, and laundry
- Tips for guides and porters
- Any personal expenses not listed above
Gallery Highlights
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Gear List & Preparation Notes
Clothing: Base layers, insulated jacket, waterproof shell, fleece, trekking trousers, gloves, warm hat, sun cap, buff / neck gaiter
Footwear: Waterproof trekking boots, camp sandals, trekking socks
Equipment: Trekking poles, headlamp, daypack, duffel bag
Personal Items: Sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, lip balm, water bottles, purification tablets, sleeping bag (-10°C), personal medication, toiletries
Physical: Begin training 2 to 3 months before departure with regular hiking and loaded pack walks. The remote terrain and long daily distances require solid cardiovascular fitness and good overall endurance.
Technical: No technical climbing skills are required. Prior experience on multi-day remote trekking routes is a strong advantage on this trek.
Altitude: The trek reaches 3,611 m at Shey Phoksundo Lake. Stay well hydrated, maintain a steady pace, and communicate openly with your guide if you feel any altitude discomfort.
Mental: Lower Dolpa is genuinely remote. Embrace the isolation, the silence, and the raw beauty of a landscape that very few trekkers ever have the privilege of experiencing.
Insurance: Ensure your policy covers remote high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation from far western Nepal.
Gear: A reliable sleeping bag, quality waterproof layers, and a good pair of broken-in boots are essential for the varied and demanding conditions of the Dolpa landscape.
