Lower Dolpo Circuit trek-15Days

Quick Overview
Duration15 Days
Trip GradeTechnically Challenging
CountryNepal
Maximum AltitudeNuma La Pass (5,190 m / 17,028 ft)
Group Size2-20
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesTrekking
Best TimeFeb, Mar, April, May, June, Sep, Oct, Nov & Dec

The 15-day Lower Dolpo Circuit is a challenging trek into a remote and restricted part of Nepal. You'll discover a stark, beautiful landscape of arid valleys, witness the incredible turquoise of Phoksundo Lake, and experience the unique local culture, which follows the ancient Bon-Po Buddhist traditions along historic salt trading paths.

Highlight 

  • Experience the unique spiritual traditions in remote monasteries, including the ancient, pre-Buddhist Bon religion.
  • Trek through surprising, arid valleys in the Himalayan rain shadow, a dramatic and beautiful high-altitude desert.
  • Walk the same ancient trails used for centuries by Tibetan salt caravans and see yaks carrying goods even today.
  • Spot unique animals like the blue sheep and maybe even see signs of the elusive snow leopard in this remote wilderness.
  • Be amazed by the unreal turquoise-blue waters of Nepal's deepest lake, set within the beautiful Shey Phoksundo National Park.

Overview of the Lower Dolpo Circuit trek—15 days

The Lower Dolpo Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most fascinating journeys, immersing you in the remote landscapes of western Nepal. The trail passes through the heart of Dolpo, a region known for its dramatic mountain scenery, ancient Tibetan culture, and untouched wilderness. The trek offers a chance to experience a part of Nepal that has remained isolated for centuries, where traditional lifestyles are still preserved.

The route leads through Shey Phoksundo National Park, home to Nepal’s deepest and most beautiful lake, Phoksundo. Along the way, trekkers encounter barren cliffs, high passes, turquoise rivers, and hidden valleys that are dotted with traditional villages and Buddhist monasteries. The influence of Tibetan Buddhism is strong here, as reflected in the prayer flags, mani walls, and centuries-old gompas that line the trail.

Although considered a challenging trek due to its remoteness and altitude, the rewards are immense. You’ll cross several high passes over 5,000 meters, walk through pristine landscapes, and witness cultural traditions that few outsiders have seen. Unlike more commercial routes, Lower Dolpo offers true solitude, making it ideal for adventurous trekkers seeking a raw and authentic Himalayan experience.

This journey is more than just a trek—it is an immersion into the wild beauty of Dolpo and a window into the resilience and spirituality of the people who call this remote land home.

REMINDER

For a smooth and stress-free start, we highly recommend arriving in Kathmandu by 4 PM the day before we leave. This gives you enough time for a final gear check, a trip briefing with your guide, and to make sure you have everything you need before heading to the trek. 

ONLINE TRIP BRIEFING 

This is like having our first coffee before the trip, but online!  This online meeting is our chance to show you everything that will happen on the trip.  We'll discuss what to bring, what each day will be like, and answer any questions.  After you book, we'll send you an email with a couple of times when we can talk. We'll set up the meeting after the booking process is completed. Also, our trek itinerary does not include your hotel stay in Kathmandu. During the online meeting, please share your preferences, budget, and the standard of the hotel you would like to stay at in Kathmandu. We will arrange it for you accordingly. 

Note to Hikers

Experience the Himalayas on your terms. We create personal, intimate treks for groups of two or more. Whether you select our Budget, Standard, or Luxury package, your adventure will be exclusively for you and your companions, ensuring a comfortable and personal journey from start to finish.

Short Itinerary
Day 01: The flight from Kathmandu (1,300 m / 4,265 ft) to Nepalgunj (150 m / 492 ft) involves a total elevation change.
Max Altitude: 1,300 m / 4,265 ft
Day 02: Flight from Nepalgunj (150 m / 492 ft) to Jhupal (2,320 m / 7,611 ft), then trek starts with  7 km / 4.3 miles to Dunai (2,850 m / 9,350 ft), usually around 3 hours with an elevation change of 530 m / 1,739 ft.
Max Altitude: 2,320 m / 7,611 ft
Day 03: Trek starts with a 15 km / 9.3 miles walk from Dunai (2,850 m / 9,350 ft) to Tarakot (2,543 m / 8,343 ft), usually around 6–7 hours with an elevation change of -307 m / 1,007 ft.
Max Altitude: 2,850 m / 9,350 ft
Day 04: Trek starts with a 12 km / 7.4 mi walk from Tarakot (2,543 m / 8,343 ft) to Laini (3,160 m / 10,367 ft), usually around 6–7 hours with a total elevation change of 617 m / 2,024 ft.
Max Altitude: 3,160 m / 10,367 ft
Day 05: Trek starts with a  10 km / 6.2 miles from Laini to Nawar Pani (3,545 m / 11,630 ft), usually around 5–6 hours with an elevation gain of 385 m / 1,263 ft.
Max Altitude: 3,545 m / 11,630 ft
Day 06: Trek starts with an 18 km / 11.2 miles from Nawar Pani (3,545 m / 11,630 ft) to Dho Tarap (4,090 m / 13,418 ft), usually around 7–8 hours with a total elevation change of 545 m / 1,788 ft.
Max Altitude: 4,090 m / 13,418 ft
Day 07: Rest and explore the village of Dho Tarap (4,090 m / 13,418 ft).
Max Altitude: 4,090 m/13,418 ft
Day 08: Trek starts with a 10 km / 6.2 mi walk from to Dho Tarap (4,090 m / 13,418 ft) to Numa La Base Camp (4,440 m / 14,566 ft), usually around  5–6 hours with an elevation change of 350 m / 1,148 ft.
Max Altitude: 4,440 m / 14,566 ft
Day 09: Trek starts with a 15 km / 9.3 mi walk from Numa la Base camp (4,440 m / 14,566 ft) to Pelung Tang (4,465 m / 14,648 ft), crossing Numa La Pass (5,190 m / 17,028 ft), usually around 7–8 hours with an elevation change of 725 m / 2,380 ft.
Max Altitude: 4,465 m / 14,648 ft
Day 10: Trek starts with a 12 km / 7.4 mile walk from Pelung Tang (4,465 m / 14,648 ft) to Dajok Tang (4,080 m / 13,385 ft), crossing Baga La Pass (5,070 m / 16,630 ft), usually around 6–7 hours with an elevation change of 990m / 3,245 ft.
Max Altitude: 4,465 m / 14,648 ft
Day 11: Trek starts with a 14 km / 8.7 miles from Dajok Tang (4,080 m / 13,385 ft)  to Ringmo (3,600 m / 11,811 ft) beside Phoksundo Lake, usually around 6–7 hours with an elevation change of 480 m / 1,575 ft.
Max Altitude: 4,080 m / 13,385 ft
Day 12: Acclimatization at Phoksundo Lake
Day 13: Trek starts with a 16 km / 10 mi walk from Phoksundo Lake (3,612 m / 11,850 ft) to Shyanta (2,520 m / 8,267 ft), usually around 6–7 hours with a total elevation change of 1,092 m / 3,586 ft.
Max Altitude: 3,612 m / 11,850 ft
Day 14: Trek starts with a 7 km / 4.3 mi walk from Shyanta (2,520 m / 8,267 ft) to Jhupal (2,320 m / 7,611 ft), usually around 3–4 hours with a total elevation of 200 m / 656 ft.
Max Altitude: 2,520 m / 8,267 f
Day 15: Morning flight back to Nepalgunj, then connect to Kathmandu (1,300 m / 4,265 ft).
Max Altitude: 1,300 m / 4,265 ft
Expand
Detailed Itinerary
Day 01:

Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Kathmandu and accompany you to the domestic terminal of Tribhuvan International Airport for the short flight to Nepalgunj. Located in the Terai plains near the Indian border, Nepalgunj has a culture and lifestyle closely resembling that of northern India—quite a contrast to the mountain regions you will soon enter. There will be some time to wander around the city and take in its atmosphere before settling down for dinner.

Max Altitude: 1,300 m / 4,265 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or Lodge
Day 02:

After landing at Jhupal airport, you’ll be welcomed by your porters and the rest of the trekking crew. Over a cup of tea and a light snack, there’s a chance to gather your energy before beginning the first stretch of the trek. The trail climbs gently above the Thulo Bheri Valley, opening up wide views of terraced fields and scattered villages. You’ll pass through the small settlement of Kalagaunda, where locals tend to their crops in the fertile valley. A little further along lies Roop Ghar, a traditional village known for its old-style water mill that still serves the community. From here, the path continues along the banks of the Bheri River, leading you towards Dunai.

Max Altitude: 2,320 m / 7,611 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or LodgeDuration: 3 hoursDistance: 7 km / 4.3 milesElevation: 530 m / 1,739 ft.
Day 03:

After breakfast, you set off along the banks of the Thulo Bheri River, following its steady flow through the valley. The path soon brings you to a crossing, where a suspension bridge takes you to the opposite side. From here, the route enters a rocky gorge, winding its way between steep cliffs before climbing gently over a hillside. The trail crosses the river once more at the small settlement of Lawan, where terraced fields and traditional houses reflect the rural lifestyle of Dolpo’s people.

By late afternoon you reach Tarakot, a charming village perched on a hill at 2,543 meters. Surrounded by fertile farmland, Tarakot has long been an important settlement in the region. Just above the village are the remains of an ancient fortress, once a stronghold of a local kingdom that controlled trade routes through Dolpo. Spending the evening here gives you the chance to explore the fort ruins, wander through the fields, and enjoy the peaceful rhythms of village life before dinner at your campsite.

Max Altitude: 2,850 m / 9,350 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or LodgeDuration: 6–7 hoursDistance: 15 km / 9.3 milesElevation: 307 m / 1,007 ft
Day 04:

Your walk today will follow the Beri River again. You will cross back to its south side and then go up a gentle slope. This area has many farmed fields, probably growing buckwheat. The path will stay high above the river for a while. Eventually, you will go down to a long suspension bridge at a spot called Laisicap. Before you cross the bridge, you must stop at a police post to show your permits.

After you pass the bridge, you will have to climb to get to the settlement of Kanigaon. The trail goes through a forest from there, and the valley gets a lot smaller. Next, you will get to Laini. This isn't a village; it's more like a meadow. There will be temporary tents for the mule trains that pass through. There might be a little store open that sells tea and noodles. But you don't have to worry about food. Our camp chef will be present to make you snacks and drinks. While you stroll, stop and look at the Churen Himal mountains. Putha Hiunchuli, which is 7,246 meters (23,773 ft) tall, is the tallest peak you'll view.

Max Altitude: 3,160 m / 10,367 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or LodgeDuration: 6–7 hoursDistance: 12 km / 7.4 miElevation: 617 m / 2,024 ft.
Day 05:

After an early breakfast, hike over a mountain pass at 3,540 m/11,614 ft. Like other passes here, the top will have Buddhist prayer flags.
After the pass, you will cross a river called the Chyugar Khola using a suspension bridge. You will cross a second bridge a little later, after you pass some seasonal huts at a place called Tazam. Then, continue walking to Nawarpani. You are now very high up, at 3,545 m / 11,630 feet. At this height, it is important to pay close attention to how you feel. If you get a headache or feel dizzy, tell your guide. Make sure you drink plenty of water.

Max Altitude: 3,545 m / 11,630 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or LodgeDuration: 5–6 hoursDistance: 10 km / 6.2 mileElevation: 385 m / 1,263 ft.
Day 06:

Today will be the longest day of hiking you've had so far. Your guide will tell you to take a number of small breaks along the journey, so pay attention to what they say.

As usual, you start your day by crossing a river. The path then goes up the side of a cliff. When you notice a small Buddhist shrine, called a chorten, on a ridge, you will know you are at an old, abandoned border post between Nepal and Tibet called Serkam. As you go down into Do Tarap, you'll be able to see the village and the land around it in a beautiful way. It's also interesting to note that Eric Valli's movie "Himalaya" was shot in this area.

Max Altitude: 4,090 m / 13,418 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or LodgeDuration: 7–8 hoursDistance: 18 km / 11.2 milesElevation: 545 m / 1,788 ft.
Day 07:

Today is a day for relaxation, so you don't have to pack and hike somewhere new. Your body needs time to become used to the high altitude.
You may relax and explore Dho Tarap village all day long. It's a unique place. The little communities that make up the hamlet are scattered over the surrounding area. You can see the simple stone houses where the people live.

The inhabitants and culture of this area will differ from those of the lower parts of Nepal due to its proximity to Tibet. There is a small Buddhist monastery, or gompa, in the settlement. You can sit here and unwind for a while. You might see prayer wheels and beautiful, detailed paintings within. Keep your eyes peeled! Herds of blue sheep may be seen on the nearby hills. Remember that the main goal of the day is to give your body time to adjust.

Max Altitude: 4,090 m/13,418 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or Lodge
Day 08:

Today is a fascinating day, full of local culture. You probably already know that Dolpo has a long and interesting history. For thousands of years, this area has been trading salt with Tibet. There are a few Bon monasteries, and Tibetan Buddhism is the most common religion in this area.
You start your day by climbing to the old Mekyem Monastery. This is a big statue of the Maitreya Buddha.

You will go to Dorje Phurba Monastery later, where you will see a collection of old weaponry. The path will go via Crystal Mountain School, which is the biggest school in this section of Dolpo. After that, you'll cross a wooden bridge over the Tarap Chu river to get to the small town of Mondo. The trail goes through a few more tiny towns before you reach Numa La Base Camp.

Max Altitude: 4,440 m / 14,566 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or LodgeDuration: 5–6 hoursDistance: 10 km / 6.2 miElevation: 350 m / 1,148 ft.
Day 09:

After breakfast, you will cross the Numa La Pass, a very high mountain pass that offers incredible views of the surrounding peaks. The climb is challenging. But when you reach the top, the scenery makes all the effort worthwhile. You will see the great mountains Dhaulagiri, Shey Shikhar, and Kanjeralwa from here. The trail down from the pass leads into a wide, U-shaped valley. You will need to cross some loose, rocky slopes carefully. After this, you will continue on to the green grazing fields at Pelung Tang.

Max Altitude: 4,465 m / 14,648 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or LodgeDuration: 7–8 hoursDistance: 15 km / 9.3 miElevation: 725 m / 2,380 ft.
Day 10:

Follow a zigzag path up to High Camp, and then keep climbing until you reach a ridge. You will have to cross further slopes of loose rock until you reach the Baga La Pass, which is 16,978 feet high.

Chortens are miniature, sacred Buddhist monuments that you will locate at the summit of the pass. You can also see the beautiful Phoksundo Lake and the Norbung Kang peak from here. When you go down the other side, you will come to a big valley. The trail goes down to Dajok Tang. Many people think this is one of the prettiest valleys in western Nepal. There are a lot of waterfalls here, so it's a great place to camp for the night.

Max Altitude: 4,465 m / 14,648 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or LodgeDuration: 6–7 hoursDistance: 12 km / 7.4 mileElevation: 990m / 3,245 ft.
Day 11:

The trail continues down past more temporary herders' huts and leads you into a wide valley filled with pine and juniper trees. You are heading towards Ringmo village and the famous Phoksundo Lake.

As you walk around the side of a hill and onto a ridge, you will be surprised by the sight of a huge, powerful waterfall. From there, the path descends through a peaceful forest of blue pine trees. You'll soon see the barley fields that the people of Ringmo village farm. Your trekking permits will be checked here as you get closer to Phoksundo Lake. When you finally see it, you'll understand why it's so famous; its water is a stunning shade of turquoise blue. After you have lunch, you might want to walk back into Ringmo village to explore. It's a great chance to see the unique style of the local houses and observe the daily life of the people who live here. 

Max Altitude: 4,080 m / 13,385 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or LodgeDuration: 6–7 hoursDistance: 14 km / 8.7 mileElevation: 480 m / 1,575 ft.
Day 12:

Today is another important rest day for your body to adjust to the altitude, but it's far from boring. You are staying at one of the most beautiful places in all of Nepal. Phoksundo Lake is famous for its incredible, almost unreal, turquoise blue water. The entire day is yours to enjoy this stunning spot at your pace. You don't have to pack up your tent or hike to a new destination. A great thing to do is to find a quiet spot by the shore just to sit and look at the water.

The color changes throughout the day with the sunlight, and the peaceful view is something you will remember forever. If you're feeling energetic, you can take a gentle walk along part of the lake's shore to see it from different angles. You might also visit the nearby Shey Phoksundo National Park office to learn a little more about the area's plants and animals. The main goal is to relax, let your body get stronger for the days ahead, and simply soak in the magnificent beauty of this special lake.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or Lodge
Day 13:

You'll have breakfast, take one last deep breath of that crisp, clear air, and then it's time to go. The trail starts with a tough climb straight up a hill. But this effort gives you a final, amazing gift: a last, breathtaking bird's-eye view of the lake spread out below, a perfect picture to keep in your memory.

From that high point, the path leads down. You'll walk through the small villages of Chunuwar and Rechi, getting a glimpse of daily life. The trail then follows the river downstream, a constant companion on your right or left, its sound a steady rhythm for your walk. You'll pass through Chhepka before finally reaching Shyanta, where you'll rest for the night, your muscles tired but your mind full of the day's sights.

Max Altitude: 3,612 m / 11,850 ftMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or LodgeDuration: 6–7 hoursDistance: 16 km / 10 miElevation: 1,092 m / 3,586 ft.
Day 14:

This is it—your final day of walking. The trail back to Jhupal might feel familiar. Every step carries the weight of the incredible journey you've just finished.

Jhupal is more than just a stop; it's the gateway to this wild region. Every trekker starts and ends their Dolpo adventure here. Walking back into the village, those few small shops and teahouses feel like a bustling town. This is your chance to finally celebrate. After spending weeks in the mountains, nothing compares to the simple delight of a cold, fizzy drink or a well-earned beer. Tonight, you'll sleep in a teahouse, a welcome change with its solid walls and a proper bed.

Max Altitude: 2,520 m / 8,267 fMeals: Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerAccommodation: Tea House or LodgeDuration: 3–4 hoursDistance: 7 km / 4.3 miElevation: 200 m / 656 ft.
Day 15:

Today, it's a short journey back to Nepalgunj, where you will have to change your planes to go to Kathmandu. After a short wait, you'll board another plane for the flight to Kathmandu. Touching down in the bustling capital city can feel a little overwhelming. The peaceful trails of Dolpo are completely different from the noise, traffic, and crowds. It's a day of dramatic transitions, from the remote quiet of the high Himalayas back to the lively heartbeat of Nepal.

Max Altitude: 1,300 m / 4,265 ft
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Equipment Lists

Only pack what’s needed for the trek to travel light and comfortably. You can store your excess luggage at The Everest Holiday for free. Porters will carry your main trekking bag, but the weight limit is 10 kg for each trekker. Since one porter carries the luggage for two people, we suggest that you and a trekking partner share one large duffel bag (over 60 Liters).

  • Sun hat (wide-brimmed)
  • Beanie (for warmth)
  • A neck gaiter or buff (for warmth and sun protection)
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Insulated gloves or mittens (for cold weather)
  • Waterproof gloves (for wet conditions)
  • A thick-wool or synthetic pair of moisture-wicking socks
  • waterproof hiking boots with ankle support and excellent traction
  • Sandals (for camp use or river crossings)
  • Gaiters protect
  • Moisture-wicking t-shirts (short and long sleeves)
  • Thermal base layer (for colder conditions)
  • Fleece jacket and down jacket (Mandatory)
  • Lightweight puffy jacket (for extra warmth)
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
  • Raincoat
  • Lightweight, breathable long-sleeve shirt
  • Polypropylene underwear (four)
  • Quick-drying pants/trousers (convertible or full-length)
  • Insulated pants (for colder conditions)
  • Lightweight cotton pants
  • Wear long underwear or thermal leggings when it is cold.
  • Two pairs of thermal/trekking trousers (pants)
  • Biodegradable bar soap
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Medium-sized drying towel
  • Wet wipes or hand sanitizers
  • The toilet paper is stored in a Ziplock bag.
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Travel-sized shampoo
  • Nail clippers
  • Small mirror
  • A duffel bag with a capacity of over 60 liters is intended for porters, with one duffel bag for every trekker.
  • An individual's daypack or backpack with a 20- or 30-liter capacity should be plenty.
  • Adjustable and lightweight poles (preferably collapsible)
  • A two-liter water bladder or bottle (with a protective cover for cold climates)
  • Use water purification methods such as purification tablets, filter bottles, or UV filters.
  • Camera/smartphone (extra memory cards and batteries)
  • A portable charger, spare batteries, or a battery pack
  • Two-pin charging plug
  • Basic first aid supplies include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and Diamox (which is used to prevent or lessen symptoms related to mountain sickness).
  • Personal medications (inhalers, allergy meds, etc.)
  • Few passport-size photos
  • Passport photocopies
  • Notebook and pen
  • Binocular
  • Basic first aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, etc.)
  • Diamox (for altitude sickness prevention/relief)
  • Personal medications (inhalers, allergy meds, etc.)
  • Water purification (tablets, filter bottle, UV filter)
  • Energy bar
  • Lightweight headlamp (with adjustable brightness)
  • Face wipes
  • An extra pair of batteries
Essential Information

Lower Dolpo circuit trek (15 days) package information 

Arrival, Welcome, and Trek.

When you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will be there to greet you. They will be holding a sign with your name on it and will welcome you with a traditional marigold garland or khada. Afterward, they will drive you to your hotel in a private car. 
We request you arrive in Kathmandu by 4 pm one day before the trek departure. This gives us the final preparation. We will pick you up at your hotel. The adventure officially begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj. 

Accommodation 

During the trek, you will stay in local lodges or traditional teahouses for the 14 days. These are simple but cozy places run by local families, giving you a real taste of mountain life. Along the way, you will find facilities like hot showers, electricity for charging your phone or camera, and sometimes even Wi-Fi. However, these services are not included in the package price and will cost a little extra.  Please note that the itinerary does not include accommodation in Kathmandu. We can help you arrange hotel bookings before and after the trek.

Meals

We provide three standard meals throughout the trek. The menu changes depending on how high you are; at higher altitudes, there will be fewer alternatives. We suggest different teas, garlic soup, and fresh veggies because it's crucial to stay hydrated at high elevations. For your health, we suggest that you stay away from dairy, meat, and drinks that have alcohol or caffeine in them. This bundle does not include hot, cold, or alcoholic drinks.

Luggage 

We will provide two trekkers for one porter during the trek. The total weight limit for the porter is 20 kg, which means each trekker has a 10 kg luggage allowance. Hence, team up with a fellow traveler and pack your things in a duffle bag of over sixty liters. We kindly request that you carry only a small personal backpack for your essentials, such as a camera, water, snacks, and valuables. You can leave any extra bags at your hotel or at our Kathmandu office for free.

Facilities and essentials 

Water 

You can buy a water bottle at stores along the trail or get boiling or filtered water at hotels. You should carry a water bottle that you can refill and fill it with boiled water. Don't drink water from the tap, well, or river that hasn't been treated. Please use a water purification tablet for your safety. You may also buy one at stores along the trail. 

Communication 

We will provide you with a SIM card in Kathmandu and show you how to purchase data and add money to it, although the signals may not be as strong at higher altitudes. For your safety, our main guide talks to all of the hiking teams every day by phone. We are ready for anything that might happen, and our guides are trained to help when they are required. We use walkie-talkies and satellite phones in areas without a network to stay in touch.

Travel Essentials

Visa 

Except for citizens of India, all foreigners need a visa to enter Nepal. The Kathmandu International Airport can provide visas upon arrival for most nationalities. You will need a password that is valid for at least 6 months, one passport-sized photo, and cash for the visa fee (US$50 for a 30 visa).

Travel 

Having comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for this trek. Your policy must cover medical expenses and emergency helicopter rescue 
up to an altitude of 5000 meters. Before the trek begins, you will need to provide us with a copy of your insurance policy.

Currency Exchange

The Nepali Rupee (NPR) is the country's official currency; one US dollar is equivalent to around 130 NPR. In Kathmandu, you may find banks and approved money exchange centers where you can exchange major foreign currencies.  ATMs are widely available to withdraw NPR, but extra service fees may apply. Make sure your notes are new and undamaged, as old or torn bills may be refused. Only the 100 INR note from India is legally accepted in Nepal. Before traveling to trekking regions, it's best to exchange money in Kathmandu, as there are few exchange options in remote areas.

Extra Expense

While our package covers most of your expenses during the trek, you will need to budget for some personal items like meals and accommodation in Kathmandu, visa fees, snacks, hot showers, personal equipment, tips for the crew, etc. We recommend you budget approximately $20 USD per day for these personal expenses during the trek.

Trek season and weather conditions 

The best times to trek the Lower Dolpo Circuit are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. In the spring, the weather is stable and pleasant, with daytime temperatures in the valleys ranging from 10°C to 20°C, though nights at higher elevations can still drop below freezing. This season brings blooming rhododendrons and clear mountain views. Similarly, autumn offers excellent conditions with crisp, clear skies and minimal rain. Daytime temperatures are comfortable, around 5°C to 15°C at higher camps, but the nights become progressively colder, especially in November. The winter months (December to February) are harsh and only for well-equipped, experienced trekkers; temperatures at high passes can plummet to -15°C or lower, and heavy snow often blocks the routes. Conversely, the summer monsoon (June to August) brings warm temperatures of 15°C to 25°C in lower areas but also frequent rain, cloudy skies, muddy trails, and a high chance of flight cancellations to the trailhead, making it the least ideal time for a visit.

Typical day 

We'll eat breakfast early every morning. The day's hike is normally broken up into two parts: a three- to four-hour hike in the morning, a one-hour lunch break, and then a shorter hike in the afternoon. Around 7:00 p.m., dinner is served, and your guide will go over the schedule for the next day with you. The rest of the evening is yours to relax, see the settlement, or hang out with the other trekkers.

Trek booking

Personal trek 

We can only provide a personal trek, so you will only be trekking with your group. We will never add strangers to your treks. All the treks are customizable per your schedule.

Individual-group bookings 

Our treks are organized with a minimum of 2 people so, If anyone is alone and does not have a friend or family joining them, we can organize a group trek open for all. If you prefer to join a group, we can also help you connect with other trekkers. Once you confirm, your group trek will be posted on our website, so others can join too. Our policy is to transform every trek into your own personal holiday in the Himalayas. 

Trust trek booking 

The Everest Holiday is a registered and bonded trekking operator, ensuring a secure booking process. We are proudly members of the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN) and the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA). Our Founder, Mr. Ganesh Simkhada, was a former Director of the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and former General Secretary of the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA). To confirm your booking, we require a 10% advance payment. Payment options include the Himalayan Bank online portal (on our website), major credit cards, bank transfers, Wise, and Western Union. After your arrival in Kathmandu, you can pay the remaining balance.  Please send us your important travel documents, such as a passport copy, within one week of booking. Please make sure your passport has a minimum of 6 months of validity remaining at your arrival date in Nepal.

Last-minute booking 

We recommend booking your trek in advance. However, we also offer a last-minute booking option, which requires full payment 24 hours before departure. For the last-minute booking, please contact Shreejan (Joe) at +977-9810351300 or email us at info@theeverestholiday.com Please note that last-minute treks may face delays due to circumstances beyond our control. 

Flexible Schedule 

Our trip schedule is determined by your travel date, and you can make any changes to it. If our scheduled trek dates don't work for you, please let us know, and we will be happy to arrange a trip according to your time and schedule.

Trip Extension 

You can easily extend your stay with other adventures. We can arrange exciting activities for you, such as a jungle safari (Chitwan and Bardiya), Bungee jumping (Pokhara, Everest, Bhote koshi, Kushma), Rafting (Bhote koshi, Trishuli, and Seti rivers) and kayaking (Trishuli and Pokhara), paragliding (Pokhara and Kathmandu), zip flying (Kathmandu, Pokhara and Kushma) Canyoning(Pokhara and Sukhuta Beach), Hot ballon (Pokhara), according to your interests. We can also set up sightseeing tours around the Kathmandu Valley if you're interested in culture and history. These tours will take you to UNESCO World Heritage sites like Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, Changunarayan Temple, and Pashupatinath Temple. We suggest a trip to Nagarkot and Dhulikhel, hill stations just outside of Kathmandu, around sunrise for a serene getaway. We can also set up spiritual trips for Buddhists and Hindus that take you to temples, stupas, monasteries, and meditation centers. When you're booking a trip, please have a look at our ADD-ON package for an amazing adventure during the trek.

Ecotourism practices 

We ask that you join our eco-friendly hiking practice because we are very dedicated to keeping the Everest region's fragile beauty safe. At the start of our excursion, each person will obtain their own eco-waste bag. Please put all of your rubbish that can't be composted, like snack wrappers, plastic bottles, and batteries, in this bag. Don't leave anything on the trail, please. Instead, take this bag with you as we walk down, and our guides will show you where to find the public trash cans and recycling bins where you can throw it away correctly. We need your help to keep the Himalayas clean and lovely for the next generation.

TEH family 

We are a family firm that has been in the tourism business in Nepal for three generations. We believe that all of our employees and teams are family. we started as porters and now run an agency. Our professional and experienced guides and Sherpas will be with you the whole time to make sure your trek is safe and memorable. They know how to do first aid in the bush and rock climbing and how to stay safe in the mountains. They also speak good English. They are from the upper Himalayas, so they know the area well. We take care of their insurance, food, housing, and medical. Please treat our workers like family, and don't hesitate to ask for help or have questions at any time. 

Trip conclusion 

Farewell Dinner 

We'll have a farewell dinner in Kathmandu after the hike to celebrate your success. This is a great time for you to tell us about your trip and what you thought of it. We will also send you a certificate of success to indicate how proud we are of what you did.

Departure 

To organize your airport transfer, please share your hotel name, room number, and flight details with us. We will pick you up from your hotel and drop you at Tribhuvan International Airport so you can catch your flight home comfortably. We hope you had a wonderful journey in Nepal and look forward to welcoming you back for another adventure soon. 

Tipping culture 

Tipping is a common way to show appreciation for good service. It’s not required, but it’s a nice gesture at the end of the trek. It’s best to give tips as a group, and the amount can depend on the quality of service, the length of the trek, and the overall cost.