Lower Dolpo & Phoksundo Lake Trek–16 Days

Key Points

Start At

Kathmandu

Duration

16 Days

Trekking Grade

Kathmandu

Accommodation

Teahouses / Lodges along the route

Max. Altitude

3,850 m (Lo Manthang)

Activity

Trekking, Cultural Exploration, Sightseeing

Meals

B.L.D

Best Season

March–May & September–November

End At

Kathmandu

Trip Overview

The Lower Dolpo & Phoksundo Lake Trek is a remote and culturally rich journey that begins with your arrival in Kathmandu at 1,350 meters, where you are transferred to your hotel and briefed on the trek ahead. On the second day, you fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj at 150 meters, a gateway to the Dolpo region. From Nepalgunj, a short flight brings you to Jhupal (2,320 m), where you begin trekking to Dunai (2,850 m), enjoying views of lush river valleys and traditional settlements. The trek gradually ascends through villages and terraced fields as you make your way to Tarakot (2,543 m) and then onward to Laini (3,160 m), experiencing the authentic lifestyle of the Dolpo people.

Continuing to Nawar Pani (3,545 m), trekkers encounter alpine landscapes and high desert scenery typical of Upper Himalayan regions. The journey then reaches Dho Tarap (4,090 m), one of the highest permanent villages in the region, followed by an acclimatization day to prepare for higher altitudes. The trek proceeds to Numa La Base Camp (4,440 m) and onward to Pelung Tang (4,465 m), crossing high passes and rugged valleys. Descending slightly, you reach Dajok Tang (4,080 m) before arriving at the breathtaking Ringmo / Phoksundo Lake (3,600 m), famous for its turquoise waters and surrounding cliffs. An additional acclimatization day at Phoksundo Lake allows time to explore the lake, the nearby villages, and ancient monasteries.

The return journey takes you down to Shyanta (2,520 m) and then back to Jhupal (2,320 m). From Jhupal, a short flight brings you to Nepalgunj and onward to Kathmandu, marking the completion of this unique expedition. This trek offers a rare combination of high-altitude adventure, Tibetan-influenced culture, and the pristine natural beauty of the Dolpo region, including the stunning Phoksundo Lake, making it one of Nepal’s most unforgettable and remote trekking experiences.

Highlights

  • Explore the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, the former kingdom of Mustang.

  • Visit Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and the royal palace.

  • Discover the sky caves of Chhoser, carved into cliffs centuries ago.

  • Experience the unique desert landscapes and barren cliffs of Upper Mustang.

  • Interact with the local Tibetan-influenced culture and traditions.

  • Walk through remote villages like Kagbeni, Chele, Syangboche, Ghami, and Tsarang.

  • Witness breathtaking high-altitude desert scenery and panoramic Himalayan views.

  • Enjoy two nights of cultural immersion in Lo Manthang.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350 m / 4,429 ft)
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore the city. In the evening, the trekking guide will meet you for a detailed briefing, including trek preparation, equipment check, and Nepal travel guidelines.

📍 Starting Point

Tribhuvan International Airport (1,350 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Kathmandu Hotel (1,350 m)

⏱️ Duration

30–45 minutes drive

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 6 km

⚠️ Important Note

Ensure your trekking gear and documents are ready. Kathmandu is the last place to purchase or rent any missing equipment before starting the Dolpo adventure.
Day 2: Kathmandu → Nepalgunj (150 m / 492 ft)
Today we take a short domestic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj in western Nepal. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. Nepalgunj is a gateway for western and far-western Nepal treks and provides a glimpse of Terai culture and plains life.

📍 Starting Point

Kathmandu (1,350 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Nepalgunj (150 m)

⏱️ Duration

1 hour flight + 15–20 minutes drive

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 500 km (flight)

⚠️ Important Note

Domestic flights in Nepal may be delayed due to weather. Keep essentials in your hand luggage and remain flexible with flight schedules.
Day 3: Nepalgunj → Jhupal → Dunai (2,850 m / 9,350 ft)
Early morning, we fly from Nepalgunj to Jhupal. From Jhupal, the trek begins toward Dunai along forested trails and small villages. The path gradually climbs through hills and farmland before reaching the district headquarters of Dolpo. Overnight stay in a lodge or tea house in Dunai.

📍 Starting Point

Jhupal (2,320 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Dunai (2,850 m)

⏱️ Duration

4–5 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 12 km

⚠️ Important Note

The trail includes moderate climbs. Stay hydrated and pace yourself while adjusting to the increasing altitude.
Day 4: Dunai → Tarakot (2,543 m / 8,343 ft)
The trail descends slightly from Dunai into the valley before gently ascending toward Tarakot. This day passes through forests, traditional villages, and terraced farmland. Tarakot is a small village providing overnight accommodation in tea houses.

📍 Starting Point

Dunai (2,850 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Tarakot (2,543 m)

⏱️ Duration

5–6 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 14 km

⚠️ Important Note

Altitude remains moderate, but walking poles may help on descending sections. Keep your backpack light for comfort.
Day 5: Tarakot → Laini (3,160 m / 10,367 ft)
The trail today climbs steadily through alpine valleys and mixed forest. Laini is a small Dolpo settlement with stone houses and guesthouses. Trekkers will enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountains and glimpse traditional Dolpo life along the trail.

📍 Starting Point

Tarakot (2,543 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Laini (3,160 m)

⏱️ Duration

6–7 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 12 km

⚠️ Important Note

Altitude gain is significant today. Walk at a steady pace, and take regular short breaks to aid acclimatization.
Day 6: Laini → Nawar Pani (3,545 m / 11,627 ft)
The trail ascends through alpine terrain with views of rugged hills and distant peaks. Nawar Pani is a small cluster of tea houses located near high pastures. The village is ideal for a night stop before entering higher alpine zones.

📍 Starting Point

Laini (3,160 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Nawar Pani (3,545 m)

⏱️ Duration

6–7 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 10 km

⚠️ Important Note

Temperatures are colder at higher altitude. Carry warm clothing and protect yourself from sun exposure during the hike.
Day 7: Nawar Pani → Dho Tarap (4,090 m / 13,419 ft)
Today is a steep climb into the high Dolpo region. The trail passes through open alpine valleys and yak grazing areas. Dho Tarap is one of the largest Dolpo villages, featuring traditional stone houses and Buddhist monasteries. Overnight stay in local guesthouses.

📍 Starting Point

Nawar Pani (3,545 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Dho Tarap (4,090 m)

⏱️ Duration

6–7 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 12 km

⚠️ Important Note

High altitude begins here. Trek slowly, drink plenty of water, and avoid overexertion to prevent altitude sickness.
Day 8: Acclimatization Day at Dho Tarap (4,090 m / 13,419 ft)
A full rest and acclimatization day in Dho Tarap. You may take short hikes around the village or visit local monasteries. Proper acclimatization today ensures a safe ascent to the Numa La Base Camp in the coming days.

📍 Starting Point

Dho Tarap (4,090 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Dho Tarap (4,090 m)

⏱️ Duration

Optional short hikes

📏 Total Distance

Dho Tarap (4,090 m)

⚠️ Important Note

Avoid strenuous activity. Drink enough water, eat light meals, and get sufficient rest to help your body adjust to high altitude.
Day 9: Dho Tarap → Numa La Base Camp (4,440 m / 14,567 ft)
The trek continues through high alpine valleys toward Numa La Base Camp. You will experience rugged mountain landscapes, glacial moraines, and dramatic cliffside trails. Numa La Base Camp provides a perfect viewpoint of the surrounding peaks.

📍 Starting Point

Dho Tarap (4,090 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Numa La Base Camp (4,440 m)

⏱️ Duration

5–6 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 10 km

⚠️ Important Note

Weather is unpredictable. Carry warm layers and trekking poles to navigate rocky or icy paths safely.
Day 10: Numa La Base Camp → Pelung Tang (4,465 m / 14,649 ft)
The trail continues along glacial valleys and high ridges. Pelung Tang is a small campsite area near high pastures. Trekkers enjoy panoramic views of surrounding peaks and glaciers along this relatively short but steep trek.

📍 Starting Point

Numa La Base Camp (4,440 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Pelung Tang (4,465 m)

⏱️ Duration

4–5 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 8 km

⚠️ Important Note

High-altitude conditions require walking slowly and monitoring for signs of altitude sickness. Carry adequate warm clothing.
Day 11: Pelung Tang → Dajok Tang (4,080 m / 13,386 ft)
Today we descend slightly toward Dajok Tang, a remote campsite area surrounded by alpine scenery. The trail passes yak pastures, small streams, and rocky paths. Overnight stay in tents or local tea houses if available.

📍 Starting Point

Pelung Tang (4,465 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Dajok Tang (4,080 m)

⏱️ Duration

5–6 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 9 km

⚠️ Important Note

Descending at high altitude can still be challenging. Use trekking poles to reduce stress on knees and ankles.
Day 12: Dajok Tang → Ringmo / Phoksundo Lake (3,600 m / 11,811 ft)
The trail descends gradually into the picturesque Phoksundo Lake area. Ringmo village lies on the shore of the turquoise lake, surrounded by forests and cliffs. The village provides tea house accommodation and offers views of the lake, which is sacred in the local culture.

📍 Starting Point

Dajok Tang (4,080 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Ringmo / Phoksundo Lake (3,600 m)

⏱️ Duration

5–6 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 10 km

⚠️ Important Note

The lake area can be cold, especially in the morning and evening. Carry warm layers and respect local cultural customs.
Day 13: Acclimatization Day at Phoksundo Lake (3,612 m / 11,847 ft)
A rest day to explore Phoksundo Lake and Ringmo village. Optional short hikes around the lake, village, and nearby cliffs. Enjoy photography and interaction with the local Dolpo culture.

📍 Starting Point

Ringmo / Phoksundo Lake (3,612 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Ringmo / Phoksundo Lake (3,612 m)

⏱️ Duration

Light exploration

📏 Total Distance

Optional short hikes

⚠️ Important Note

Avoid strenuous activity. Weather can change quickly; carry warm clothing and stay prepared for sudden temperature drops.
Day 14: Phoksundo Lake → Shyanta (2,520 m / 8,268 ft)
The trail descends through forested valleys, cliffs, and terraced farmland. Shyanta is a small settlement offering overnight accommodation and the chance to experience rural Dolpo life.

📍 Starting Point

Ringmo / Phoksundo Lake (3,612 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Shyanta (2,520 m)

⏱️ Duration

6–7 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 12 km

⚠️ Important Note

Steep downhill sections can be tough on knees. Trekking poles are recommended for support and balance.
Day 15: Shyanta → Jhupal (2,320 m / 7,612 ft)
The trail continues descending through scenic valleys, villages, and forests back to Jhupal. This village provides a comfortable resting place before the flight back to Nepalgunj.

📍 Starting Point

Shyanta (2,520 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Jhupal (2,320 m)

⏱️ Duration

5–6 hours trek

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 12 km

⚠️ Important Note

Ensure your trekking gear is packed and ready for the flight the next day. Take precautions on descending trails for safety.
Day 16: Jhupal → Nepalgunj → Kathmandu (1,350 m / 4,429 ft)
Morning flight from Jhupal to Nepalgunj, then connecting flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu. The rest of the day is free for relaxation or shopping in the capital city.

📍 Starting Point

Jhupal (2,320 m)

🏁 Ending Point

Kathmandu Hotel (1,350 m)

⏱️ Duration

50 min flight + 1 hr connecting flight + hotel transfer

📏 Total Distance

Approx. 500 km flight

⚠️ Important Note

Domestic flight schedules may be affected by weather conditions. Keep essentials handy in your hand luggage and remain flexible for possible changes.

Package Include

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off in Kathmandu

  • All internal transportation (Kathmandu–Pokhara–Jomsom and return drives)

  • Lodge / teahouse accommodation during trek

  • All meals (B.L.D) during trek

  • Experienced trekking guide and porters

  • Trekking permits and Upper Mustang restricted area permit

  • First aid kit and insurance for staff

Package Exclude

  • International flights to/from Nepal

  • Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara

  • Personal trekking equipment

  • Travel / medical insurance for trekkers

  • Extra personal expenses (hot showers, drinks, tips)

Equ‌ipment & Trek​king Gears

  • Daypack and duffel bag for porter

  • Trekking boots and comfortable shoes

  • Warm clothing, down jacket, gloves, and hat

  • Sunglasses, sunscreen, and water bottle

  • Sleeping bag (if preferred over lodge bedding)

  • Trekking poles (optional but recommended)

  • Personal medications and toiletries

All Inclusive Price

Everything you need, with clear and secure booking.

  • Instant Booking
  • Secure Payments
  • No Hidden Costs

Transparent pricing • Quick confirmation • Trusted support

US$
1599
PP
Save
US$ 801
per person
Regular: US$ 2400
Price range: US$ 1599 - US$ 2400
Duration: 16 Days
Group-Size Discounts

Pricing is based on your group size.
We do not add others to your group.

No. of Persons
Group Type
Price per Person
2-4 Pax
Small Group
US$ 1599
Book
5-9 Pax
Small Group
US$ 2150
Book
10+ Pax
Small Group
US$ 6789
Book
Dates & discounts are applied in the next step.

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