The hidden paradise of Dolpo is found in the Nepalese Himalayas. It has beautiful mountains, turquoise lakes, and ancient monasteries. Consequently, trekking to Dolpo requires a special permit as it is classified as a restricted area. This POST will give you all the information you need to plan your Dolpo Trekking Package.
Getting To Dolpo
To get to Dolpo, there are two alternatives: by plane or by road. The easiest way to get to Dolpo is to take a flight from Kathmandu to Juphal, the regional airport in Dolpo. However, bad weather often leads to canceling flights to Juphal; therefore, it is wise to have an alternative plan in mind.
On the other hand, you can also drive via a road trip from Kathmandu to Dunai, the Dolpo entrance gate. Normally, this trip takes about three days, and one gets to enjoy the beautiful landscape of the Himalayas. Nevertheless, the road may become rough and bumpy, so being ready for a long and uncomfortable journey is important.
Permits And Fees
To trek in Dolpo, you will need a special permit, which can be acquired from the Immigration Department in Kathmandu. A permit costs $500 for 10 days and an additional $50 per day after that. Moreover, you must pay a national park entry fee of $30.
Trekking Packages
Several trekking companies are offering Dolpo trekking packages. The cost of a Dolpo Trekking Package will depend on the length of your trek, the number of people in your group, and the level of accommodation preferred. This Dolpo Trekking Package includes all your meals, accommodation charges, transport facilities, and guide and porter expenses.
When To Go
The best time for Dolpo trekking is spring (April- May) or autumn (September- October). The weather is mild in these months, and the trails are less crowded. You can trek year-round in Dolpo, but the weather can be unpredictable at high altitudes, especially during winter.
What To Pack
- Warm clothing: Warm clothing will be required if you plan to trek Dolpo, as the temperature can drop below freezing at night, even during summer.
- Rain gear: Remember that it can rain any time of the year while going into Dolpo.
- Hiking boots: Go with heavy-duty hiking boots for Dolpo hiking.
- Sleeping bag: You need a sleeping bag designed for cold weather.
- Headlamp: Remember a headlamp because you will hike through the darkness for hours and hours on end when trekking through Dolpo.
- Sun protection: Remember to pack some sun protection as sun rays can get very strong at higher altitudes.
- First aid kit: Consider carrying a kit since Dolpo has no medical facilities.
Itinerary
Dolpo is home to several trekking routes. Shey Phoksundo Trek, which lasts approximately 15 days, is the most frequented. In this trek, Shey Phoksundo National Park is visited to witness the beauty of Shey Phoksundo Lake. The Upper Dolpo Trek and Tsum Valley Trek are other popular trekking routes in Dolpo. The Upper Dolpo Trek is challenging compared to the Shey Phoksundo Trek and can take about 20 days. On the other hand, the Tsum Valley Trek is a shorter trek that takes about 10 days.
What You Should Expect On Your Trek
Expect a challenging walk when visiting Dolpo, a remote and isolated region. The paths are usually bumpy and steep, while the climate can be erratic. Nonetheless, they are worth every bit of inconvenience that you go through for them. The sceneries within Dolpo are breathtakingly beautiful, not to mention experiencing the different cultures of the Dolpo people.
