DOLPO TREK
Nestled in the remote corners of Nepal, Dolpo is a land untouched by modernity, where old traditions and customs still rule. One of the most challenging and rewarding treks in the Himalayas, the Dolpo Trek offers a glimpse into this hidden paradise.
The trek begins in Juphal, a small town in western Nepal, and winds through pristine forests, picturesque villages and rugged mountains. Along the way, tourists are offered a breathtaking view of snow-capped peaks, cascading waterfalls and crystal clear lakes. The trail also passes through Shey Phoksundo National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna, including the elusive snow leopard.
One of the highlights of the Dolpo Trek is Phoksundo Lake, a stunning turquoise gem nestled between towering cliffs and lush forests. The lake is considered sacred by local people who believe it is home to deities and spirits. Tourists can also visit the nearby Shey Gompa, a centuries-old monastery perched on a hill that offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Throughout the trek, tourists have the opportunity to interact with friendly and hospitable locals, who are mostly of Tibetan origin. They live a simple life, herding yaks and farming the land, and their culture and traditions are deeply rooted in Buddhism. Tourists can witness traditional ceremonies, visit ancient monasteries and learn about the unique way of life in this remote area.
The Dolpo Trek is not for the faint hearted as the terrain is rugged and the altitude can be challenging. Trekkers must be prepared for long days of walking and camping in basic conditions. But the rewards are well worth the effort, as the beauty and tranquility of Dolpa is unlike anything else in the world.
In conclusion, Dolpo Trek is a journey into the heart of the Himalayas where adventure, culture and natural beauty come together. It's a chance to step back in time and experience a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries. For those looking for a truly out-of-the-ordinary adventure, the Dolpo Trek is an experience like no other.
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Itinerary
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1
Arrival day in Kathmandu [1,300m/4,264 ft.]
Upon your arrival in the Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by a representative from Makalu Adventure and will be dropped at your hotel.
2Kathmandu valley sightseeing & trek preparation
We begin our guided tour at the Kathmandu Durbar Square, home to the palaces of the medieval kings who ruled the then Kingdom of Kathmandu. Pashupatinath contains the sacred lingum or the symbol of Lord Shiva. Aryaghat near Pashupati and on the banks of the Bagmati River is a famous Hindu cemetery. Boudhanath Buddhist Shrine is one of the largest stupas in the world and one of the holiest Buddhist pilgrimage and tourist sites in Kathmandu. The Boudhnath area is also famous for more than 50 Tibetan gompas or monasteries. Swayambhu, which means "self-existent", is popular among foreigners as a monkey temple due to the large population of monkeys living in the area. Overnight in Kathmandu..
3Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj & transfer to Hotel
We take an hour's flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj in Western Nepal.
4Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal (Dolpo) [2,320m/7,610ft] and trek to Dunai [2,850m/9,348ft]: 2-3 hrs. walk
We fly to Juphal via flight, enjoying stunning Himalayan foothills views. Our first day involves traversing terraced fields, navigating a narrow gorge, and reaching Dunai, the administrative hub of the Dolpo region.
5Trek to Tarakot [2,543m/8,341ft]: 5-6 hrs. walk
Our morning meal leads us on a well-maintained trail along the southern bank of the river, passing through deep gorges, hanging bridges, and secluded villages. We visit Tarakot, an ancient stronghold built as a Dzong, a center for toll collection from trading caravans.
6Trek to Laini [3,160 m/10,365 ft.]: 6-7 hrs. walk
After breakfast, we'll trek alongside the Tarap Chu River, crossing twice. We'll visit Sandul Gompa, east of Tarakot, and explore farm terraces and rural villages. We'll eventually camp at Laini for the night.
7Trek to Nawarpani [3,545m/11,627 ft.]: 5 hrs. walk
After breakfast, we hike towards the Tarap River gorge, ascending steep slopes and experiencing thrilling valley transformations. We descend towards Chyugur Khola, creating our own path through stone slabs as bridges.
8Trek to Do Tarap [4,090m/13,415ft]: 7-8 hrs walk
After breakfast, we ascend towards Kamattarka, where the Tarap Chu and Lang Khola rivers converge. We walk through a narrow gorge, surrounded by juniper bushes and wild roses. We reach Dho Tarap village, where Bon Po and Chaiba sects coexist, and a small Tibetan population and Magar community reside.
9Rest Day at Do Tarap for acclimatization
During our day in Do Tarap, we explore monasteries, interact with locals, and observe their traditional clothing and religious practices. We visit the Bon po and Nyingmapa Buddhist sects, visiting the nearby Buddhist Gompa and the pre-Buddhist Bon Gompa.
10Trek to Numa La Base Camp [4440m/14,563 ft]: 6-7 hrs. Walk.
We explore the upper Tarap valley, a picturesque landscape with lush green grass patches. The trek follows the Tarap chu upstream, offering an enchanting experience. We reach the village of Tokyu, which has a monastery and continues the journey for three more hours to our overnight camp beneath Numa-la.
11Cross Numa La [5,190m/17,023ft], and camp at Pelung Tang [4465m/14,645 ft]: 6-7 hrs.
On a challenging day, we'll climb Numa La pass to 5,190m elevation, enjoying stunning views of Dolpo mountains and Dhaulagiri. After descending to our campsite at Pelung Tang, we'll continue our trek.
12Cross Baga La [5,070m/16,630ft] and camp Dajok Tang [4,080m/13,382ft]: 6 hrs.
Our morning hike starts with a challenging ascent to Baga-la's 5,070m summit, offering stunning views of picturesque landscapes and Kanjirowa Himal range peaks. After a three-hour descent, we reach Dajok Tang for overnight stay.
13Trek to Ringmo (3,600m/11,808ft): 3-4 hrs. walk
After breakfast, we embark on a morning hike through a pine forest, then transition to pasture fields and alpine shrubs, ascending and descending gradually until reaching Ringmo.
14Rest Day at Ringmo for a hike to Phoksundo Lake
We'll spend a day exploring Phoksumdo Lake, a picturesque spot reminiscent of the film 'Himalaya'. We'll pass through Ringmo and Saldang before heading north towards Thinje. We'll explore the nearby Tibetan Buddhist monastery and Ringmo village. A leisurely stroll along the lake's perimeter will be enjoyable. We'll spend the night at our campsite.
15Trek to Shyanta [2520m/8265 ft]: 5-6 hrs. walk
Explore Chepka, a colossal rock formation with medicinal minerals for various ailments, then meander through villages before reaching Shyanta, an enchanting destination.
16Trek to Juphal
Ascending the trail towards Jhupal via Sulighat, we encounter majestic birch trees and breathtaking mountain views. Careful trekking is crucial, and upon arrival, explore the market town or engage in activities.
17Fly to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj
Flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj, then Kathmandu, escorted to hotel, activities like email exchange and photo collection.
18Final Departure from Kathmandu
You are saying good bye to the mountains of Nepal as your journey in Nepal comes to an end today.
Services
Cost Includes
Airport pickups and drops in a private vehicle 3-star hotel Thamel Eco resort accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
Fully organised camping accommodation during the trek
All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner, tea coffee, hot water for drinks ) during the trek
Welcome and farewell dinners
All ground transportation on a comfortable private vehicle as per the itinerary
Domestic flights (Kathmandu- Nepalgunj -Jhupal and back to Kathmandu round trip)
Guided city tour in Kathmandu by private vehicle Entrance fees for sightseeing/monument visits as per the itinerary
An experienced, English-speaking and government-licensed trek leader, cook and Kitchen helpers and their daily wages and insurance
Porters daily wages lodging and food and insurance all camping equipments like member tents, Dining tents, Kitchen tents , toilet tents, chair table and all kitchen utensils
Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, domestic airfare, food and accommodation
Makalu Adventure’s trekking bag/duffel bag, t-shirt and trekking map are yours to take
All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (National Park Permit, TIMS)
Medical kit (carried by your trek leader)
All government and local taxes
SAT Phone for emergency.Cost Excludes
Nepalese VISA fee
Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj International flights
Travel and rescue insurance
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle water, shower, etc.)
Tips for guide(s), porter(s) and driver(s)Equipments
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