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15 people
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Embark on the ultimate trekking experience with our Dolpo to Rara Lake Trek, a 22-day journey that takes you through the heart of Nepal’s rugged beauty, remote villages, and pristine lake to lake trek. From Kathmandu to Rara Lake, this trek covers some of Nepal’s most hidden gems, offering cultural immersion, breathtaking landscapes, and the chance to explore Shey Phoksundo National Park and the serene beauty of Rara National Park.
Starting Point: Jhupal Ending Point: Talcha
Region: Dolpo & Mugu Transport: Flights
Duration: 22 Days Difficulty: Challenging
Maximum Altitude: 5,490 m (18,011 ft) Accommodation: Camping
Rara Lake: Nepal’s largest and most picturesque lake, perfect for nature lovers.
Shey Phoksundo Lake: Nepal’s deepest lake, surrounded by dramatic landscapes and alpine beauty.
Shey Gompa: A 12th-century monastery in Dolpo, the spiritual center of the region.
Cultural Immersion: Participate in traditional Bon Po dances and explore local Tibetan-influenced cultures.
Wildlife Spotting: Trek through Rara National Park and spot rare wildlife such as the snow leopard, red panda, Himalayan black bear, and musk deer.
Great Himalayan Trail: While dolpo rara lake trek being Part of the Great Himalayan Trail (GHT), this trek connects the eastern and western regions of Nepal.
The Dolpo Rara Lake Trek takes you through some of Nepal’s most remote and pristine regions, offering stunning views, challenging trekking paths, and an unforgettable cultural experience. Starting in Dolpo, a region with a strong Tibetan Buddhist influence, and ending in Mugu, home to Rara Lake, Nepal’s largest lake, this trek is perfect for adventurous trekkers seeking both natural beauty and cultural immersion.
The trek offers a combination of alpine forests, high-altitude lakes, and rugged mountain passes. The remote villages along the route showcase the Bon Po religion and Tibetan traditions, making this an exciting adventure for those looking to explore the rich culture of Nepal’s highlands.
Dolpo is a unique destination where Bon Po traditions still thrive. This area, often called a “hidden world,” is closely tied to Tibet, with trade routes for yaks and mules still running from Tibet to Nepal. The famous Shey Gompa, located near Crystal Mountain, is a major religious destination for trekkers and pilgrims alike.
In contrast, Mugu is one of the most isolated and undeveloped regions of Nepal. However, it boasts the stunning Rara Lake and Rara National Park, home to diverse wildlife like snow leopards, musk deer, and the Himalayan black bear. This trek allows you to immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of the region, making it a perfect escape for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
Your adventure begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, a bustling city in the western Terai region of Nepal, known for its unique blend of Nepali and Indian cultures. After a short flight, you’ll experience the vibrant life of Nepalgunj, where the border with India creates a lively atmosphere. Your guide will provide a briefing on the trek ahead.
Flight Time: 50 minutes Accommodation: Hotel Elevation: 150m / 492ft
Highlights & Challenges:
Scenic aerial views of the mountains
The lively atmosphere of Nepalgunj
Rickshaw ride through the bustling town
Today, take an early flight to Jhupal. Upon arrival, meet your trekking crew, including porters and guides, before beginning your trek. The route takes you through lush forests and isolated Tibetan Buddhist villages, entering the Shey Phoksundo National Park.
Flight Time: 45 minutes Trek Time: 6 hours Accommodation: Tea House Elevation: 2,680m / 8,792ft
Highlights & Challenges:
Stunning flight views of the landscape
Trekking through Tibetan Buddhist villages
Crossing rivers and forests
Continue along the Phoksundo Khola river, visiting the Amchi Hospital to learn about Tibetan medicine. Experience the traditional lifestyle of the locals as you trek through winter settlements.
Trek Time: 6 hours Accommodation: Tea House Elevation: 3,130m / 10,269ft
Highlights & Challenges:
Learning about traditional Tibetan medicine
Trekking alongside the Phoksundo River
Arrive at Ringmo, the village near the stunning Phoksundo Lake. Enjoy the calm and spiritual atmosphere of the lake and the surrounding national park. The night will be spent camping by the lake.
Trek Time: 4 hours Accommodation: Tea House Elevation: 3,612m / 11,850ft
Highlights & Challenges:
Stunning Phoksundo Lake views
Spiritual ambiance of the area
High-altitude camping
Spend the day acclimatizing at Phoksundo Lake. Explore Ringmo village, visit a Bon monastery, or simply relax with yoga and meditation in the serene surroundings.
Highlights & Challenges:
Exploring the nearby Bon monastery
Acclimatization at high altitude
Scenic views of Phoksundo Lake
Circle the lake and ascend to a ridge with views of Kanjirowa Himal. Continue through alpine juniper landscapes to Chunemba.
Trek Time: 5 hours Accommodation: Tea House Elevation: 3,639m / 11,938ft
Highlights & Challenges:
Narrow trail with cliffside views
Majestic mountain panoramas
Follow the Phoksundo Valley, surrounded by towering rock walls. Reach Snowfields Camp, a location made famous by Peter Matthiessen’s book The Snow Leopard.
Trek Time: 7 hours Accommodation: Tea House Elevation: 4,400m / 14,435ft
Highlights & Challenges:
Narrow valley surrounded by high rock walls
Historic trek location
Climb the Kang La Pass at 5,350m, enjoying panoramic mountain views before descending to Shey Gompa, home to the sacred Crystal Mountain.
Trek Time: 6 hours Accommodation: Tea House Elevation: 4,310m / 14,140ft
Highlights & Challenges:
Climbing the Kang La Pass
Visiting the Shey Gompa monastery
Trek through remote landscapes, with river crossings and views of local farming settlements. Reach Bhijer, a village with barley fields and traditional homes.
Trek Time: 6 hours Accommodation: Tea House Elevation: 3,850m / 12,631ft
Highlights & Challenges:
Exploring remote villages
Experiencing local agricultural practices
Ascend to Pho, a remote village, while traversing rocky terrain and scree slopes. This challenging day will reward you with stunning mountain views.
Trek Time: 8 hours Accommodation: Tea House Elevation: 4,087m / 13,408ft
Highlights & Challenges:
Challenging scree slopes
Remote village of Pho
Cross the Nyingma Gyazen La Pass at 5,563m, and enjoy incredible views of Kanjiroba Himal.
Trek Time: 7 hours Accommodation: Tea House Elevation: 4,650m / 15,255ft
Highlights & Challenges:
Crossing high mountain passes
Panoramic views from Gyazen La Pass
Trek across the Yala La Pass at 5,250m and descend to the Chyandi Khola valley.
Trek Time: 7 hours Accommodation: Tea House Elevation: 4,830m / 15,846ft
Highlights & Challenges:
Views from Yala La Pass
High-altitude trekking
Navigate difficult terrain with river crossings and dense forests before reaching Takla Khola.
Trek Time: 7 hours Accommodation: Tea House Elevation: 3,785m / 12,417ft
Highlights & Challenges:
Challenging river crossings
Dense forest landscapes
Cross the Chyargo La Pass at 5,100m, then descend through forested valleys to Thaju Chaur.
Trek Time: 7 hours Accommodation: Tea House Elevation: 4,050m / 13,287ft
Highlights & Challenges:
Stunning views from Chyargo La Pass
River crossings
Cross rivers and trek through the Mugu Khola valley to reach Shilen Chaur Kharka.
Trek Time: 7 hours Accommodation: Tea House Elevation: 2,945m / 9,662ft
Highlights & Challenges:
River crossings
Forested valley trekking
Enjoy a pleasant trek through the Mugu Karnali Valley, descending to Tiyar.
Trek Time: 4 hours Accommodation: Tea House Elevation: 2,418m / 7,933ft
Highlights & Challenges:
Pleasant, lower-altitude trek
Leaving Dolpo behind
Join the Great Himalayan Trail and head towards Rara Lake.
Trek Time: 4 hours Accommodation: Tea House Elevation: 1,950m / 6,397ft
Highlights & Challenges:
Easy trek with stunning views
Reach the administrative town of Gamgadi, the gateway to Rara Lake.
Trek Time: 4 hours Accommodation: Tea House Elevation: 2,095m / 6,873ft
Highlights & Challenges:
Shopping and stocking up in Gamgadi
Arrive at Rara Lake, Nepal’s largest lake, surrounded by lush forests.
Trek Time: 4 hours Accommodation: Tea House Elevation: 2,095m / 6,873ft
Highlights & Challenges:
Rara Lake’s incredible beauty
Boating on Rara Lake
Hike to Murma Top for panoramic views of Rara Lake and the surrounding area.
Trek Time: 4 hours Accommodation: Tea House Elevation: 2,095m / 6,873ft
Highlights & Challenges:
Spectacular lake views from Murma Top
Visit Chaprun Mahadev temple
Trek from Rara Lake to Talcha for your flight back to Nepalgunj.
Trek Time: 3 hours Accommodation: Tea House Elevation: 2,990m / 9,809ft
Highlights & Challenges:
Enjoy one last trek through lush forests
Saying goodbye to Rara Lake
Catch two flights back to Kathmandu. Reflect on the incredible journey you’ve just completed, and share your memories with loved ones.
Trek Time: 2 hours Accommodation: Tea House Elevation: 1,300m / 4,265ft
Highlights & Challenges:
Scenic flight views
End of your Dolpo to Rara Lake Trek
The Dolpo to Rara Lake Trek offers an unparalleled experience, combining Nepal’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and remote adventure. From stunning alpine lakes like Shey Phoksundo Lake to the serenity of Rara Lake, this trek is perfect for those seeking both physical challenge and cultural exploration. With breathtaking landscapes, remote villages, and unique Tibetan Bon Po traditions, this trek is a must for any avid trekkers or adventure travelers looking to discover Nepal’s hidden gems.
For those looking to immerse themselves in Nepal’s rugged wilderness and Tibetan-influenced culture, the Dolpo Rara Lake Trek offers an unforgettable experience. Book your adventure today and explore the natural wonders of one of Nepal’s most remote regions!
Arrive in Nepalgunj for the first night of your adventure before heading to Dolpo.
Fly from Nepalgunj to Jhupal and start your trek towards Chhepak.
Trek through rugged landscapes towards Chunuwar.
Continue your journey towards Ringmo, located near Shey Phoksundo Lake.
Take a day to acclimatize and explore the scenic surroundings of Shey Phoksundo Lake.
Continue your trek to Chunemba through breathtaking alpine terrain.
Trek through challenging terrain to reach Snowfield Camp, where you'll gain altitude and stunning views.
Reach Shey Gompa, the spiritual heart of Dolpo.
Trek Time: 6 hrs
Altitude: 3,850 m (12,631 ft)
Head towards Bhijer, exploring remote villages along the way.
Trek Time: 8 hrs
Altitude: 4,087 m (13,408 ft)
Trek through high-altitude trails to Pho, a remote settlement.
Trek Time: 7 hrs
Altitude: 4,650 m (15,255 ft)
Trek to Pung Kharka, a high-altitude pastureland.
Trek Time: 6 hrs
Altitude: 4,830 m (15,846 ft)
Continue your journey to Chyandi Khola, a river valley surrounded by mountains.
Trek Time: 7 hrs
Altitude: 3,785 m (12,417 ft)
Trek to Takla Khola, an isolated village nestled in the mountains.
Trek Time: 7 hrs
Altitude: 4,050 m (13,287 ft)
Head to Thaju Chaur, a stunning location with panoramic views.
Trek Time: 6 hrs
Altitude: 2,945 m (9,662 ft)
Descend to Shilen Chaur Kharka, a picturesque pasture.
Trek Time: 4 hrs
Altitude: 2,418 m (7,933 ft)
Descend to the village of Tiyar.
Trek Time: 4 hrs
Altitude: 1,950 m (6,397 ft)
Continue your journey to Mangri.
Trek Time: 4 hrs
Altitude: 2,095 m (6,873 ft)
Trek to Gamgadi, the administrative hub of Mugu.
Trek Time: 4 hrs
Altitude: 2,980 m (9,776 ft)
Arrive at Rara Lake, where you can relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Trek Time: 4 hrs
Altitude: 2,980 m (9,776 ft)
Take a day trip to the viewpoint for stunning panoramic views of Rara Lake.
Trek Time: 3 hrs
Altitude: 2,990 m (9,809 ft)
Trek to Talcha, a small village near Rara Lake.
Flight Time: 2 hrs
Altitude: Kathmandu – 1,300 m (4,265 ft)
Fly back to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj, concluding your epic trek through Dolpo and Rara lake Mugu.
A: This trek is considered moderately to highly challenging due to remote terrain, high altitudes, and long trekking days. Proper acclimatization and physical preparation are essential.
A: The ideal trekking seasons are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to early November) when the weather is stable, views are clear, and trails are more accessible.
A: Yes. You’ll need Restricted Area Permits for Upper Dolpo and Rara National Park Permit. These are typically arranged through authorized trekking agencies in Nepal.
A: Most of the route is off-the-beaten-path, so camping is required for a large part of the trek. A fully organized trek with guides, porters, and kitchen staff is recommended.
A: The full trek usually takes 23 to 26 days, depending on the route and acclimatization days. Some itineraries also include time for cultural exploration.
A: Major highlights include Phoksundo Lake, Shey Gompa, the high passes (e.g., Nagdala or Saldang La), remote Dolpo villages, Rara Lake, and surreal Himalayan scenery.
A: Solo trekking is not permitted in Upper Dolpo due to its restricted status. You must trek with a licensed guide and through a registered agency.
A: You might spot blue sheep, musk deer, Himalayan griffons, and even the elusive snow leopard in some sections. The region is rich in biodiversity.
A: The trek reaches elevations of over 5,000 meters (16,400 ft), especially around passes like Saldang La and Numa La. To prepare, engage in cardio training, strength exercises, and practice multi-day hikes before your trip. Gradual acclimatization is key to avoiding altitude sickness.
A: Most treks to Dolpo begin with a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, followed by a connecting flight to Juphal in Lower Dolpo. From there, the trekking route starts. Some packages may include chartered flights or jeep rides to remote access points.
A: In remote Dolpo, you’ll mostly rely on camping-based trekking. Food is prepared by the support crew and includes Nepali staples like dal bhat, pasta, soups, and tea. Few basic homestays may be available in certain villages, but they lack modern amenities.
A: Due to its remoteness, altitude, and logistical challenges, this trek is not recommended for first-time trekkers. Prior experience in high-altitude trekking is strongly advised.
A: Unlike more commercial routes like Everest or Annapurna, this trek offers raw, untouched beauty, rich Tibetan-influenced culture, and true wilderness trekking. You’ll experience areas where few tourists have ever set foot, making it one of Nepal’s most exclusive treks.
A: Essential gear includes a 4-season sleeping bag, layered clothing, trekking boots, headlamp, down jacket, personal first-aid kit, and high-SPF sunscreen. Since it’s a camping trek, your agency will provide tents, cooking equipment, and support staff.
A: Yes! Some trekkers combine this route with Lower Dolpo Circuit, or end with a visit to Jumla or Rara National Park tour. It's also possible to extend the journey to Mugu or Humla for deeper Himalayan exploration.
A: You’ll need travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking (above 5,000m), medical evacuation by helicopter, and trip cancellation. Always carry a printed copy of your insurance with emergency contact details.
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