Camp beneath remote Himalayan peaks, cross two spectacular 5,000-metre passes and discover the hidden valleys, Tibetan culture and turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake in one of Nepal's most isolated trekking regions
The Lower Dolpo & Phoksundo Lake Trek is one of Nepal’s most remote and rewarding wilderness adventures, taking trekkers deep into a hidden Himalayan landscape shaped by Tibetan culture, ancient trade routes and spectacular high-altitude scenery. Protected within Shey Phoksundo National Park, Nepal’s largest national park, the Lower Dolpo region remains one of the country’s least-visited trekking areas, offering an extraordinary sense of remoteness and discovery.
Hidden behind the great Himalayan barriers of Dhaulagiri and Churen Himal, Lower Dolpo lies within the rain shadow of the Himalayas. Unlike the lush green valleys found elsewhere in Nepal, the landscape resembles the vast Tibetan Plateau, with dramatic canyons, barren mountains, high alpine pastures and traditional stone villages largely untouched by modern development. The Lower Dolpo & Phoksundo Lake region is deeply influenced by Tibetan Buddhism and the ancient Bon religion, creating a unique cultural atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Nepal.
The trek passes through remote settlements such as Do Tarap, one of the highest permanently inhabited villages in Nepal, before crossing the spectacular Numa La Pass (5,318m) and Baga La Pass (5,190m). The journey culminates at the breathtaking Phoksundo Lake, famous for its brilliant turquoise waters and dramatic mountain setting. Along the way, trekkers may encounter blue sheep, Himalayan griffons and, with exceptional luck, the elusive snow leopard.
Fully supported by an experienced trekking crew, cooks, porters and pack animals, this camping adventure offers an authentic expedition-style experience in one of the Himalayas’ last great wilderness regions. Perfect for adventurous trekkers seeking solitude, culture and extraordinary landscapes, the Lower Dolpo & Phoksundo Lake Trek is a truly unforgettable journey into Nepal’s hidden Himalaya.
Everything you need to know at a glance before your Lower Dolpo Phoksundo Lake Trek.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Nepal, transfer to hotel and permit arrangements.
Day 2: Trek briefing and preparation in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, approx. 1 hour.
Day 4: Fly from Nepalgunj to Jufal (2,400m) and trek to Dunai (2,150m), approx. 3 hours.
Day 5: Trek from Dunai to Tarkot (2,600m), approx. 5 hours.
Day 6: Trek from Tarkot to Lahini (3,500m), approx. 8 hours.
Day 7: Trek from Lahini to Simsim Odhar (3,850m), approx. 8 hours.
Day 8: Acclimatisation day at Simsim Odhar.
Day 9: Trek from Simsim Odhar to Do Tarap (4,040m), approx. 4-5 hours.
Day 10: Acclimatisation and exploration day in Do Tarap.
Day 11: Trek from Do Tarap to Tok-khyu High Camp (4,565m), approx. 5-6 hours.
Day 12: Trek to Pelungtang (4,465m) via Numa La Pass (5,318m), approx. 6-7 hours.
Day 13: Trek to Dajok Tang (4,080m) via Baga La Pass (5,190m), approx. 5-6 hours.
Day 14: Trek from Dajok Tang to Phoksundo Lake (3,730m), approx. 3–4 hours.
Day 15: Exploration day at Phoksundo Lake.
Day 16: Trek from Phoksundo Lake to Renje (3,010m), approx. 6-7 hours.
Day 17: Trek from Renje to Chepka (2,670m), approx. 5-6 hours.
Day 18: Trek from Chepka to Dunai (2,150m), approx. 6-7 hours.
Day 19: Trek from Dunai to Jufal (2,400m), approx. 4-4.5 hours.
Day 20: Fly from Jufal to Nepalgunj and onwards to Kathmandu.
Day 21: Departure from Nepal.
Note: The itinerary is a guide only and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather, flight schedules, trail conditions or operational requirements.
Note: All treks are led by professional trek guides and porters.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Nepal and Permit Arrangements
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a member of our team will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Your passport will be collected in preparation for obtaining the Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit and national park permits required for the trek.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Trek Briefing and Preparation (B)
Today is reserved for your trek briefing and final preparations. Meet your guide, review the itinerary and check equipment before departing for one of Nepal’s most remote trekking regions.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (B L D)
A short flight takes you from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, a bustling city located near Nepal’s border with India. The afternoon is free to relax and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Overnight in Nepalgunj.
Day 4: Fly to Jufal (2,400m) and Trek to Dunai (2,150m) | Approx. 3 Hours (B L D)
An early morning mountain flight takes you to the remote airstrip at Jufal, the gateway to the Dolpo region. After meeting your trekking crew, begin following the Bheri River through terraced fields and traditional settlements. The trail descends gently through a beautiful landscape of cultivated farmland and scattered villages before reaching Dunai, the administrative centre of Dolpo District and the starting point of your journey into one of Nepal’s most remote regions.
Overnight camping.
Day 5: Trek from Dunai to Tarkot (2,600m) | Approx. 5 Hours (B L D)
Following the Bheri River upstream, the trail gradually ascends through traditional settlements and cultivated farmland. The scenery becomes increasingly rugged as you venture deeper into the Dolpo region.
Overnight camping.
Day 6: Trek from Tarkot to Lahini (3,500m) | Approx. 8 Hours (B L D)
Today’s route follows a long and steady ascent through increasingly remote terrain. The landscape begins transitioning from forested valleys to the drier, high-altitude environment characteristic of Dolpo’s rain-shadow location.
Overnight camping.
Day 7: Trek from Lahini to Simsim Odhar (3,850m) | Approx. 8 Hours (B L D)
A demanding but rewarding day leads through dramatic mountain landscapes and isolated valleys. The increasing altitude provides ever-expanding views of the surrounding peaks and high-country wilderness.
Overnight camping.
Day 8: Acclimatisation Day at Simsim Odhar (B L D)
A rest day allows your body to adjust to the altitude before continuing higher into the mountains. Optional acclimatisation hikes can be undertaken to nearby viewpoints and ridges.
Overnight camping.
Day 9: Trek from Simsim Odhar to Do Tarap (4,040m) | Approx. 4-5 Hours (B L D)
A shorter day brings you to the remarkable valley of Do Tarap, one of the highest permanently inhabited settlements in Nepal. Surrounded by vast mountains and open grazing land, this traditional Tibetan-influenced village offers a fascinating glimpse into a way of life that has changed little over centuries.
Overnight camping.
Day 10: Exploration and Acclimatisation Day in Do Tarap (B L D)
Spend the day exploring Do Tarap, visiting local homes, traditional fields and the village monastery. The area is rich in both Buddhist and Bon cultural traditions and provides a unique opportunity to experience authentic Himalayan culture.
Overnight camping.
Day 11: Trek from Do Tarap to Tok-khyu High Camp (4,565m) | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
Leaving the village behind, the trail gradually climbs through high alpine terrain towards the base of Numa La Pass. The scenery becomes increasingly dramatic as towering peaks surround the valley.
Overnight camping.
Day 12: Trek to Pelungtang (4,465m) via Numa La Pass (5,318m) | Approx. 6-7 Hours (B L D)
Today is one of the most challenging and rewarding days of the trek. A steep climb leads to Numa La Pass, the highest point of the journey. On clear days, magnificent views extend across Dhaulagiri I (8,167m), Churen Himal and countless surrounding peaks.
After taking in the panorama, descend through rugged mountain terrain to Pelungtang.
Overnight camping.
Day 13: Trek to Dajok Tang (4,080m) via Baga La Pass (5,190m) | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
A second high pass crossing awaits as you climb towards Baga La Pass. The spectacular route offers uninterrupted views of the surrounding Himalayan wilderness before descending into another remote valley.
Overnight camping.
Day 14: Trek from Dajok Tang to Phoksundo Lake (3,730m) | Approx. 3-4 Hours (B L D)
A shorter day leads to one of Nepal’s most beautiful natural wonders: Phoksundo Lake. Famous for its brilliant turquoise waters and dramatic mountain setting, the lake is among the highlights of any trek in Nepal.
Overnight camping near Phoksundo Lake.
Day 15: Exploration Day at Phoksundo Lake (B L D)
Enjoy a full day exploring the shores of Phoksundo Lake and its surrounding landscapes. Optional hikes provide stunning viewpoints over the lake and opportunities to observe wildlife within Shey Phoksundo National Park.
Overnight camping.
Day 16: Trek from Phoksundo Lake to Renje (3,010m) | Approx. 6-7 Hours (B L D)
Leaving the lake behind, begin descending through forests, canyons and riverside trails as the landscape gradually becomes greener and more populated.
Overnight camping.
Day 17: Trek from Renje to Chepka (2,670m) | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
Continue descending through beautiful river valleys and mixed forest. The lower elevations bring warmer temperatures and increasingly diverse vegetation.
Overnight camping.
Day 18: Trek from Chepka to Dunai (2,150m) | Approx. 6-7 Hours (B L D)
Retrace your route back to Dunai, enjoying familiar scenery from a different perspective as the trek gradually comes to an end.
Overnight camping.
Day 19: Trek from Dunai to Jufal (2,400m) | Approx. 4-5 Hours ( B L D)
A gentle ascent returns you to Jufal, where you spend your final night in the mountains reflecting on an unforgettable adventure through one of Nepal’s most remote regions.
Overnight camping.
Day 20: Fly from Jufal to Nepalgunj and Kathmandu (B)
Weather permitting, take an early morning flight to Nepalgunj before connecting onwards to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel.
Overnight in Kathmandu
Day 21: Departure from Nepal (B)
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight marking the end of your Lower Dolpo Trek adventure.
The itinerary is intended as a guide and may be subject to change at short notice due to weather, flight schedules, trail conditions or operational requirements.
MEALS INCLUDED: B – breakfast | L – lunch | D – dinner
Note: All treks are led by professional trek guides and porters.
Lower Dolpo Phoksundo Lake Trek Map
Additional Information
Important Permit Information:
To obtain the Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit, we require your original passport at least two working days prior to departure.
Cost Includes
- Pre-trip advice and detailed information
- Expert trip leadership and motivated staff for the duration of the trek
- International & domestic airport transfers in Nepal (where applicable)
- 3 nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu: 2 nights pre-trek & 1-night post-trek
- 1 night accommodation in Nepalgunj: Pre trek
- Transportation to and from trek start and finish for you and your trekking team
- Domestic flights as outlined in the itinerary
- Camping accommodation during the trek on a twin sharing basis
- During the trek all meals on a full board basis (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) to include tea/coffee during the meals, but excluding any drinks outside of the meal times
- All permits, conservation area, and restricted area fees
- 1 porter for every two people
- Insurance and equipment for Nepali staff
- Rescue assistance
- Group medical kit
Cost Excludes
- International flights to and from Kathmandu, Nepal
- Visa for Nepal
- Travel insurance (insurance to include evacuation is mandatory. Please make sure you are covered to the correct altitude)
- Personal expenses such as fizzy drinks, chocolate, gifts, snacks, hot showers etc., during the trek
- Meals unless specified
- Sightseeing
- Gratuities
- Excess baggage on domestic flights
- Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of Himalayan Quests
What to Bring
Himalayan Quests uses a layering system where different pieces of clothing are worn together or separately to achieve optimum body temperature control. The upper body garments listed here are either synthetic or merino wool garments that retain their insulating properties when wet, or nylon or Gore-Tex layers which help prevent heat loss by cutting wind, rain, and snow.
This is a guideline only
| UPPER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| T-Shirts – walking | 2 | We recommend merino wool, Capilene or other synthetic fabric as they wick away the moisture and dry quickly. No cotton. |
| T-shirt – sleeping | 1 | This can be cotton |
| Base layers (ie thermal top) | 1 | Lightweight or mid-weight long-sleeved t-shirt of merino wool, polyester, Capilene, or Polartec power dry |
| Top insulating Layers | 1 | Mid-weight fleece that can be worn over other layers |
| Fleece Vest | 1 | |
| Rain jacket | 1 | |
| Down Jacket | 1 | |
| LOWER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Underwear | Sufficient for the trek (remember you can wash them) | |
| Thermal long johns/long underwear | 1 | |
| Trekking Trousers | 2 | Lightweight quick-dry trousers (no cotton). Zip offs are good |
| Evening/sleeping trousers | 1 optional | 1 pair of lightweight tracksuit bottoms (sweat pants) or yoga style trousers for evening wear and sleeping in. No jeans. |
| Hiking Shorts | 1 | If no zip-off trousers. Below the knee for ladies |
| Rain Pants | 1 | |
| PACKS & BAGS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Day pack | 1 | Approx. 35ltrs. HQ will provide you with a duffle bag for your trekking gear |
| Sleeping bag with compression sack | 1 | Minimum 3 season |
| Sleeping bag liner | 1 | Optional |
FOOTWEAR
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Hiking boots | 1 | Must be well worn and comfortable with ankle support |
| Socks | 3 | |
| Sandals/Camp shoes | 1 | Lightweight for evening use |
| MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Water bottles | 2 | One liter each, Nalgene or Sig style or a bladder if preferred |
| Water purification drops | 1 | Cheap and easy to buy in Kathmandu (Piyus) |
| Lip Balm | 1 | With SPF factor |
| Sunscreen | 1 | We recommend SPF 30 or greater |
| Mosquito repellent | 1 | |
| Personal first aid kit | 1 | To include any prescribed medications |
| Sunglasses | 1 | |
| Bandana/Buff | 1 | Useful for a variety of purposes. |
| Flashlight /head torch | 1 | Head torch is best as it leaves your hands free + extra batteries |
| Travel towel | 1 | Lightweight and compact |
| Wash kit | Travel size items for the trek & eco friendly if possible | |
| Instant Hand Sanitizer | 1 | Alcohol-based for keeping hands clean |
| Sun hat | 1 | |
| Warm hat | 1 | |
| Gloves | 1 | |
| Trekking poles | Optional | |
| Trekking snacks | Good selection available in KTM | |
| Camera | With charger &/or extra batteries | |
| Toilet paper & rubbish bag | ||
| Book/journal | ||
| Pack of cards/travel game | 1 | For evening entertainment |
| Photocopies of all your important documents | ||
| Compression socks | 1 | Great for international flights & long road/jeep journeys |
| A great sense of humour & a positive attitude | Essential – don’t come without it!! | |
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FAQs for Lower Dolpo Phoksundo Lake Trek
What will the food be like?
There are is a set menu that is used by all of the tea houses along the trek, with such foods as: Breakfast – porridge, eggs, Tibetan bread, rice pudding. Lunch/Dinner – dal bhat, pasta, soup, mo mos, eggs, chapati, noodles. Tea and coffee will be served at each meal.
What will the weather be like?
Generally, the weather is warm/hot during the day with the temperatures dipping at night into the early morning. The higher you go, the cooler the temperatures get. During the spring season the minimum night time temperature at Badal Dada / High Camp should be just below freezing, although it will depend on the weather at the time. During the autumn season, traditionally the minimum night time temperature will be below freezing, possibly as low as -5 to -10 degrees Celsius up high. The mountains have their own micro climates, and climate change is impacting the traditional weather patterns and you need to be prepared for all conditions – sun, rain, snow, ice.
Do I need travel insurance for trekking in Nepal?
Yes. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking at the maximum altitude of your chosen route, as well as emergency medical treatment and evacuation where appropriate.
What happens if I get sick or there is an emergency during the trek?
Our guides are trained to respond to common trekking emergencies and will coordinate assistance when necessary. Depending on the location and situation, this may involve rest and observation, descent, evacuation or medical support.
How do I deal with altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness. Our itineraries are designed with acclimatisation in mind, and our guides monitor trekkers throughout the journey. Staying hydrated, walking at a steady pace and allowing your body time to acclimatise are important.
Will I be carrying my own gear on the trek? How much luggage can I take on a trek?
You will be provided with a duffle bag for your main trekking gear, which will be carried by a porter. The weight limit per person for this is 10kg. You will just carry your day pack with your personal items for the day.
Is there electricity / WiFi on the trek?
There is only mains electricity at the teahouses on the first and last night, the rest are all solar powered. You are able to charge your phones, camera batteries, however, the teahouse may make a small charge, especially where there is no mains power. Some trekking areas have mobile connectivity and Wi-Fi at certain villages, while remote sections may have little or no connectivity. We recommend being prepared for periods without a reliable signal.
What is the accommodation like on the trek? Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
You will be sleeping in small, simple teahouses along the trek. The rooms are usually twin or triple. Single rooms cannot be guaranteed. Attached bathrooms might only be available on the first and last nights of the trek. Simple beds with a sheet and pillow are provided. A sleeping bag and liner will be provided for you during the trek.
What clothing/gear do I need to bring for the trek?
Please refer to the detailed gear list you have been provided with. Ladies, please make sure any trousers or shorts fall below the knee. Please make sure your walking boots are well worn in and comfortable. Technical gear such as ropes and crampons are not required for this trek, although micro spikes/Yak Trax will be useful if the conditions are snowy/icy up at high camp. These can be bought cheaply (c.£10 a pair) in Nepal.
Do I need previous trekking experience?
Not necessarily. You don’t need previous trekking experience, but a good level of physical fitness, proper preparation, and the ability to walk for several hours a day are important.
What is the best time of year to trek in Nepal?
The main trekking seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when conditions are generally favourable. There are also some lower-altitude and rain-shadow treks that can be suitable during the monsoon, while winter offers clear skies but colder conditions at higher elevations.
22 Days
Kanchenjunga Region
Moderate/Strenuous
