A 19-day restricted camping trek in far-western Nepal, crossing the Numa La (5,310 m) and Baga La (5,170 m) to the deepest lake in Nepal, Phoksundo Lake.
All dates are guaranteed departures — we never cancel for low numbers. Book online or send a quick enquiry.
Can’t find a suitable date? We run private departures on any date with as few as 2 trekkers.
The Lower Dolpo Trek is a 19-day restricted-area camping trek in far-western Nepal, circling through Shey Phoksundo National Park to the deep-blue Phoksundo Lake at 3,612 m, the deepest lake in Nepal, and crossing two high passes: the Numa La at approximately 5,310 m and the Baga La at approximately 5,170 m. The route runs through a remote pocket of far-western Nepal where Tibetan-influenced Bon culture has persisted largely unchanged for centuries.
The trek begins with a short flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal (near Dunai), then climbs through Tarakot, Laini and Dho Tarap, a village of flat-roofed stone houses on the high Tibetan plateau. After crossing the Numa La and the Baga La, the route descends to Phoksundo Lake, one of the most striking bodies of water in the Himalayas, before returning west via Chepka and Rupghat to Juphal. The entire high section is above 3,500 m, and the two pass crossings are the physical crux of the trip.
This is a fully supported camping trek. There are very few teahouses in the Dolpo highlands, so the expedition moves with tents, a cook, a dining shelter and pack animals or porters carrying camp equipment. That self-contained structure means the route is possible and comfortable even in remote sections where no lodges exist. The permit costs, passes and what to pack are covered in the guide sections below.
Last updated June 2026
Tap any day to expand — altitudes, walking times, meals, and overnight details for every stage of the journey.
Every cost on the trail is broken out below — no hidden fees, no surprises at the trailhead.
Included
11 items
Not included
8 items
The Lower Dolpo Trek is a strenuous, remote camping trek. The route crosses the Numa La at approximately 5,310 m and the Baga La at approximately 5,170 m, spends several nights above 3,500 m, and runs through sections where there are no teahouses, so altitude, physical stamina and comfort with camping conditions are the core requirements.
In-depth guides on accommodation, food, permits, insurance and special considerations — tap any topic to expand.
The Lower Dolpo Trek is graded strenuous, and altitude is the primary factor. The Numa La sits at approximately 5,310 m and the Baga La at approximately 5,170 m, and the route spends four to five consecutive nights above 3,500 m between Dho Tarap and Phoksundo Lake. Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is a real risk at these elevations, and the itinerary builds in an acclimatisation day at Dho Tarap (3,950 m) before the pass sequence.
Daily walking runs 5 to 8 hours on remote, unmaintained trail where route-finding and river crossings are common, and pass days start before dawn. There is no technical climbing, but the two-pass crossing on consecutive days (D10 and D11) is the physical crux: both are above 5,000 m with significant ascent and descent. Anyone with a cardiac or respiratory condition should have a full health check before booking. Swotah guides carry a first-aid kit, a pulse oximeter, and have experience managing altitude on this route.
The full kit list. Anything we loan (sleeping bag, down jacket) is called out — bring everything else.
Everything trekkers ask before booking. Don't see yours? Tap Enquire — we usually reply within a few hours.
Most Nepal operators look the same from the outside. Here's what actually makes the difference.
100% locally owned since 2016. Trek profits support Sherpa families and village schools directly.
Every date on our calendar runs — no minimum group size. You never pay to be cancelled.
NATHM-licensed, WFR-certified, English-speaking. Most were born within two valleys of the trail.
Small groups, typically 6–8 trekkers. You get a real experience, not a convoy.
Sleeping bag and down jacket loaned at no extra charge — both rated to –20°C.
Deposit from 10% to confirm, balance before departure or in cash on arrival. Reschedule up to 30 days prior.
Kathmandu office and dedicated WhatsApp emergency line. We answer at 2am if needed.
TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice 2023, 2024 and 2025. Hundreds of verified five-star reviews.
Tell us your travel dates and group size. Our team in Kathmandu will put together a tailored itinerary, honest costs, and practical tips — completely free, no commitment.
