Dolpo
Into the wilderness of western Nepal
Trek Details
The Lower Dolpo and Dhorpatan Trek is an extraordinary journey into one of Nepal’s most remote and unspoiled regions. The trek traverses incredible landscapes, from high-altitude deserts to deep, isolated valleys, offering trekkers a unique glimpse into Nepal's hidden wilderness. As you hike along unusual desert trails, you’ll encounter villages where people continue to live in relative isolation. Along the way, you'll pass monasteries, chortens, and prayer flags fluttering in the wind, offering a profound cultural immersion that few treks can match. The journey continues through the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, where you may spot rare wildlife such as Himalayan blue sheep, and diverse bird species. The adventure reaches its peak at the Jalja La Pass (3,410 m), a high vantage point that provides panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri Range and the Annapurna Massif. As you climb the pass, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking sunset over Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and, the following morning, an early ascent offers an unforgettable sunrise over the Annapurna Range, a true highlight of the trek.
Accommodation conditions are generally very rough, and some nights you'll be camping.
Duration from Kathmandu to Kathmandu : 13 days
Trek level : challenging 3/4
It’s good to have previous experience of hiking and/or trekking but a beginner in good condition can do it. You must be able to hike 6 to 8 hours and climb at least 1,000 m (3,300 ft) per day, for several days in a row.
Altitude : 1,816 m - 4,526 m
Distance : 120 km
Accommodation : camping and homestay
Ascent : 6,580 m
Descent : 7,120 km
Travel tips : Everything you need to know before trekking with us HERE
Cost : From 1,760 EUR per person (rate based on 4 people minimum).
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Airport transfers - pick up and drop upon arrival and departure
Transportation until the trekking departure point
Trekking permit and TIMS fee
Hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara if needed
English or French speaking trekking guide as well as his necessary insurance, accommodation, meals allowance and salary
Supporting staff (porters), as well as their necessary insurance, and accommodation, meals allowance and salary
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner - 3 meals per day, tea-coffee, seasonal fruits, and overnight in double rooms in local lodge along the trek
First aid kit box
You can hire our services for your stay in Kathmandu (accommodation, cultural guide and excursions).
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International flight ticket and airport tax
Lunch and dinner during the Kathmandu and other cities’ stay
Travel / medical insurance and emergency evacuation cost
Tips for guide and porter
Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, alcoholic beverages, bottled drinks (including cold drinks and mineral water) during the trek
Additional costs due to extra days stay, in case of flight cancellation due to the natural calamities, bad weather and other unforeseen circumstances
Personal trekking gear for the trip
Itinerary
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Early transfer to Kathmandu airport for a scenic flight to Nepalgunj that offers a great panorama of the Himalayas. Visit Nepalgunj, a bustling town located in the southwestern Terai plains, near the Indian border, and a melting pot of diverse cultures, with a blend of Hindu, Muslim, and Tharu communities. Nepalgunj offers a vibrant local experience, despite its heat and humidity.
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The journey continues with a very early and short flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal (2,475 m), offering stunning aerial views over deep valleys, before landing on Juphal's narrow, remote airstrip. The trek starts with a smooth descent till Dunai (~2,000 m), the last city before wilderness. Approx. 3 hours hike, ascending 110 m and descending 500 m.
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The trek continues along the Thulo Beri river, before a gentle ascent to the village of Sahar Tara (~2,500 m), where you can spend the night in the monastery. Approx. 6/7 hours hike, ascending 1,120 and descending 450 m.
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A long, challenging ascent on a forgotten trail leads you to Jang La Pass (~4,500 m). From the pass, you stand before unspoiled landscapes and the stunning Saipal Himal range. After crossing the pass, you set up camp, surrounded by stillness. Approx. 7/8 hours hike, ascending ~1,770 m and descending ~200 m.
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After crossing the Jang La Pass, you descend 500 m and climb again in an open and desert landscape to the second main pass : Phupal Pass (~4,500 m). You then reach a second camp along the Phupal Khola river (~4,300 m). Approx 7/8 hours hike, ascending ~600 m and descending ~900 m.
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After crossing another pass at around 4,000 m, a long descent along the Phupal Khola takes you to the small Kham Magar village of Tatopani (~2,500 m)., where you can enjoy the hospitality of the locals and the natural hot springs. Approx 6/7 hours hike, ascending 390 m and descending 2,250 m.
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This new day takes you through new landscapes and juniper and pine forests till Thakur camp (~3,000 m). You will enjoy the wilderness, and may even spot Himalayan goats or blue sheep. Approx 6 hours hike, ascending 1,290 m and descending 530 m.
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The trail ascends till Phagune Dhuri Pass (~3,000 m), an open and desolate pass, where you can admire the view over Putha Himal range. Then, you enter the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, established in 1987. It offers a rich biodiversity, and diverse habitat for species like birds, blue sheep, Himalayan goat (tahr), and snow leopards. Welcome to Dhorpatan (3,900 m). Approx 8/9 hours hike, ascending 630 m and descending 1,320 m.
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After a week of intense trekking, you can take advantage of a rest day to discover the village of Kham Magar and Tibetan refugees. Enjoy the hospitality of the locals and more comfortable accommodation.
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The trail is a remote and scenic route : the terrain becomes again more rugged, with expansive views of the surrounding valleys. Reaching Jalja La Pass (~3,400 m) rewards you with stunning panoramas of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. Camp will be set up just under the pass. Approx 6/7 hours hike, ascending 560 m and descending 50 m.
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After the sunrise over the Annapurna range, start a steep descent till Muna (~2,000 m), a small Gurung and Magar village and a peaceful spot to end this adventurous trek. The village lies in a serene valley, surrounded by terraced fields and green hills, offering a glimpse into traditional rural life. Approx 5/6 hours hike, ascending 150 m and descending 1,620 m.
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Return to Pokhara by local jeep, 5/6 hours trip and visit of Pokhara. (Phewa Lake, Peace Pagoda, Pumdikot, Gupteshwor Cave…)
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Back to Kathmandu by flight, private jeep or local bus. Approx. 6 to 8 hours trip (or morning flight).
Gallery
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