Lower Dolpo Trek- 18 Days

Dolpo Region Trek is one of the most isolated and least developed areas to consider trekking in Nepal. Dolpo is situated on the Tibetan plateau and the Dhaulagiri Himalayan range and is the highest inhabited land in western Nepal. Dolpo, a land beyond the Himalayas, captures mysterious views of ancient monasteries, blue sheep, and snow leopards. Dolpo region has been strictly off limits until 1990, which has helped the traditions and ways of life to remain intact for decades. Dolpo has gained an immense attention since the first trek which was organized by a British tour operator in 1990. Since the release of Peter Matthiessen’s book “The Snow Leopard” and David Snellgrove’s “Himalayan Pilgrimage” has contributed significantly to highlight and popularize this region.

The Lower Dolpo Trek too offers an outstanding trekking experience in the remote western region of Nepal which requires special permits to enter. It is a moderate trek with a maximum elevation of just 5230 m at Numa La. The main attractions of this trek are the lively local communities, the tranquil waters of Phoksundo Lake, believed to be the manifestation of a female deity Tara, (the deepest lake of Nepal) and the snowed capped Himalayan peaks. The trek passes through Shey-Phosundo National Park with spectacular mountain scenery, Buddhist Monasteries, and yak caravans.

Legend says that it is one of the “hidden valleys” created by Guru Rinpoche as a refuge for devout Buddhists in troubled times. As we trek through the heart of Dolpo we encounter both the amazing scenery and heart touching communities. From Magar villages at Dhaulagiri to Bhotia fortress and Gompas, this trek shows the beautiful landscapes of Nepal along with the diverse culture it holds within it. The hills here are sparsely populated which makes them very peaceful and quiet.