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The Dho Tarap Valley Trek is an 18-day journey into the heart of Nepal’s remote Lower Dolpo region, offering an unparalleled adventure through rugged landscapes, ancient Tibetan culture, and pristine natural wonders. This trek focuses on the Dho Tarap Valley, one of the highest human settlements in Nepal at 3,944m, known for its vibrant Buddhist and Bon Po communities, colorful monasteries, and traditional lifestyle. Unlike mainstream treks like Annapurna or Everest, this off-the-beaten-path adventure immerses you in an isolated region where time seems to stand still, accessible only through a registered trekking agency with special permits.
The trek begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, followed by a 45-minute flight to Juphal, the gateway to Dolpo. From there, you’ll trek through Shey Phoksundo National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna, including Himalayan Thar, musk deer, and the elusive snow leopard. A highlight is the stunning Shey Phoksundo Lake, Nepal’s deepest lake, with its turquoise waters framed by snow-capped peaks. The trail also crosses challenging high-altitude passes like Numa La (5,238m) and Baga La (5,214m), offering breathtaking views of the Dhaulagiri massif and other Himalayan peaks.
The Dho Tarap Valley, the centerpiece of this trek, is a cultural treasure. Home to Tibetan and Magar communities, the valley features villages like Dho, Tokyu, and Lang, adorned with chortens, mani walls, and ancient monasteries such as Ribo Bumpa and Drakmar Dewa. Here, you’ll witness traditional practices, including yak caravans trading with Tibet, and interact with locals wearing homespun clothing and upturned-toe boots. The valley’s vast plains, terraced fields of barley and buckwheat, and dramatic landscapes provide a stark contrast to the barren, high-altitude terrain of the passes.
This 18-day itinerary includes a mix of tea house accommodations and three nights of camping at Numala Base Camp, Danigar, and Yak Kharka, where no tea houses are available. The trek is moderately challenging, requiring good physical fitness and acclimatization due to altitudes exceeding 5,000m. The best seasons are March to May and September to November, when the weather is stable and views are clear. Hairy Yak Adventures provides experienced, government-licensed guides familiar with Dolpo’s trails, culture, and history, ensuring a safe and enriching experience. All permits, including the Lower Dolpo special permit ($30 for 10 days, $5 per additional day) and TIMS card ($10–$20), are arranged by our team.
We recommend arriving in Kathmandu two days before the trek to finalize permits, prepare equipment (e.g., boots rated for -25°C and a quality sleeping bag, provided by us), and attend a pre-trek briefing. This trek is a rare opportunity to explore an untouched corner of Nepal, blending adventure, cultural immersion, and the serene beauty of the Himalayas.
$4210 per person
The trek is moderately challenging due to high-altitude passes (Numa La, 5,238m; Baga La, 5,214m) and remote terrain. Good fitness and acclimatization are essential.
Basic tea houses and homestays are used, with three nights of camping at Numala Base Camp, Danigar, and Yak Kharka, where no tea houses are available.
No tea houses exist at Numala Base Camp, Danigar, and Yak Kharka. We provide tents, basic Nepalese food, high-energy food, tea, and coffee.
Our trained guides handle emergencies, including altitude sickness, coordinating with our team and your insurance provider for helicopter rescue if needed.
Altitude sickness (AMS) may occur above 3,000m, causing headaches or breathing issues. Acclimatization days at Dho Tarap and Shey Phoksundo, plus hydration, help prevent it.