Trip Overview
This trek follows a less-travelled trail. This long trek offers you exotic and myriad cultural experiences, coupled with an interesting landscape that ranges from the verdant greenery in the lower reaches to an arid and dry one in the higher reaches.
As the actual trek starts from the Bheri zone and ends in the Karnali zone, the climate also changes as the trek progresses. We start from a hot and temperate zone and reach a colder zone as we ascend. By the end of the trek, we descend again to the hot and temperate zone.
We travel overland by jeep, passing some interesting Tharu villages. From Chaurjari to Dolpa, the route passes through interesting villages with terraced fields and Hindu shrines.
Some of the highlights of this trek include the visit to the interesting village of Chaurjahari, where the inhabitants follow their own unique customs, Phoksundo Lake nature tour, view of Sulighat waterfall, visits to old Bon monasteries, Kagmara pass, Khalanga Bazaar of Jumla and Gothi Chaur. Trekking is lengthy but interesting because of the different types of communities. It starts from the Bheri zone and ends in the Karnali zone.
A permit is required for only the Lower Dolpo and Phoksundo National Park fee.
Detailed Itinerary
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore the vibrant streets of Thamel or visit nearby UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Kathmandu Durbar Square or Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), offering panoramic views of the valley.
Enjoy a relaxed morning before your late afternoon flight to the sub-tropical city of Nepalgunj. On arrival, transfer to your hotel. If time permits, explore the bustling local market, visit the Bageshwori Temple, or take in the colourful mix of Terai culture.
After breakfast, embark on a scenic jeep drive through the flat Terai plains, gradually ascending to the mid-hills of Dang. Along the way, witness diverse landscapes, farmland, and roadside villages reflecting authentic rural life.
Continue your drive deeper into the western hills. The road passes through lush valleys and terraced fields, offering occasional views of distant ridgelines. Arrive in Chaurjari, a quiet hill town that serves as the gateway to the trekking route.
The trek begins with a gradual climb through pine forests and small farming hamlets. Traditional Magar and Gurung houses dot the path. Arrive at Rimna Camp, surrounded by green pastures and views of rolling hills.
The trail ascends through oak and rhododendron forests. In spring, the rhododendrons bloom in a riot of colors. Pass by streams and grazing lands before reaching Gamras Camp, an open meadow perfect for stargazing.
Today’s walk passes through remote settlements and forested ridges. The higher altitude brings cooler air and glimpses of snow-clad peaks. Anna Camp offers a peaceful campsite surrounded by alpine vegetation.
The trail undulates through rugged hillsides and descends briefly before a final climb to Karapghar, a traditional settlement with stone-roofed houses. The village offers cultural interaction with locals living a pastoral lifestyle.
A downhill trail leads to Tripurakot, home to an important Hindu temple dedicated to Tripura Sundari. This village, located on the banks of the Bheri River, holds great religious significance.
A riverside walk along the Bheri takes you to Dunai, the administrative headquarters of Dolpa. Explore the bustling market, visit the local monastery, and experience the unique blend of Dolpo and Tibetan culture.
Following the trail along the turquoise Bheri River, pass suspension bridges and riverside villages before arriving at Tarakot, an ancient fortress town with colorful Buddhist chortens.
A gradual climb follows the Tarap Khola upstream through gorges and narrow trails carved into cliffs. Laina Odar is a stunning riverside campsite surrounded by sheer rock faces.
The day’s walk passes through narrow canyons with dramatic rock formations before reaching Nawarpani, also known as Pigo Cave. The caves have long been used as shelters by local traders and herders.
A steady climb leads to the broad valley of Dho Tarap, one of the highest permanent settlements in the world. The village is rich in Bon and Buddhist culture, with ancient monasteries and prayer flags fluttering in the wind.
Spend the day exploring monasteries, interacting with locals in traditional dress, and learning about Dolpo’s unique blend of Bon and Tibetan Buddhism. Short hikes in the surrounding valley help with acclimatisation.
Climb gradually through yak pastures and alpine meadows, with impressive views of the surrounding mountains. Camp at the base of Numala Pass in a serene high-altitude setting.
An early start takes you over the steep and rocky Numala Pass, with panoramic Himalayan views. A long descent leads to Danighar, a yak herder’s camp surrounded by rugged cliffs.
Cross the beautiful Bagala La Pass, offering stunning views of Kanjirowa Himal. Descend through high pastures to Darchothang, where herders tend their yaks.
A scenic trail leads to the traditional village of Ringmo, perched on the shores of the turquoise Shey Phoksundo Lake. This crystal-clear lake, set against sheer cliffs, is one of Nepal’s most stunning natural wonders.
Explore the lake’s shores, visit Tshowa Gompa (a 900-year-old Bon monastery), and enjoy short hikes to viewpoints overlooking the lake and surrounding waterfalls.
Follow a forested trail through pine and juniper to reach Pugmo, a small Tibetan-style village with an old monastery and rich cultural traditions.
Gradually ascend through remote valleys, passing grazing areas and high-altitude meadows. Lasa is a peaceful settlement with spectacular views.
A challenging day crossing Kagmara Pass, offering sweeping mountain vistas. Descend to Kagmara Phedi, a wild and remote campsite near glacial streams.
A long descent through alpine valleys into lower, greener terrain. Toijum is a small hamlet set in fertile farmland.
Follow the river through terraced fields and charming villages. Kaigaon features traditional wooden houses and a friendly community.
Climb through oak and pine forests to Chaurikot, a scenic ridge-top village offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
A moderately easy trail passes through rolling hills and small settlements before reaching Chorta, another picturesque highland village
Descend gradually into the lush Gothichaur valley, known for its fertile farmland and greenery
The final trekking day takes you to Jumla’s main town, where you can explore the bustling bazaar and sample local dishes.
Fly from Jumla to Nepalgunj in the morning, then connect on the same day to Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel for a well-earned rest.
Keep this day as a spare in case of weather delays during the flights. If unused, explore Patan Durbar Square, Boudhanath Stupa, or Bhaktapur for more cultural immersion.
Transfer to the airport for your onward journey, taking with you unforgettable memories of Dolpo’s wild beauty and cultural richness.