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Dolpo Rara Traverse Trek

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Dolpo Rara Traverse Trek
Days
22
  • Best price guaranteed
  • No booking fees
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Max. Elevation
4830 m / 15846 ft
Group size
Min 1+
Level
Moderate
Transportation
Domestic flight as per Itinerary and all around transportation
Best Season
Mar - May, Sep - Nov
Starts at / Ends at
Kathmandu / Kathmandu
Accomodation
Hotel in Kathmandu and Tea House / Lodge during the trek
Meals
All meals during the trek and breakfast in Kathmandu
Trip Route

Highlights

  • This trek explores some of Nepal's most isolated regions, offering dramatic landscapes, high-altitude plateaus, and deep valleys, with minimal tourist traffic.
  • The trek culminates at the stunning Rara Lake, Nepal’s largest lake, known for its sparkling blue waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush forests.
  • Experience the rich culture of the Dolpo region, where Tibetan Buddhism predominates. Visit remote monasteries, prayer wheels, and interact with the friendly, traditional communities.
  • The trek offers a variety of landscapes, from lush green forests and terraced fields to arid Tibetan-like highlands, offering a unique trekking experience in each section.
  • Traverse high-altitude passes like Nara La (4,400m) and Jeng La (4,800m), which offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
  • The region is home to rare species such as the snow leopard, Himalayan blue sheep, and musk deer, along with vibrant alpine flora.
  • The trek takes you through Dolpo's remote villages, where you'll encounter Tibetan-influenced architecture, prayer flags, and Buddhist traditions.
  • As one of Nepal's off-the-beaten-path treks, it offers a more authentic and serene trekking experience, far from the crowded trails of other popular regions.

Overview

The Dolpo Rara Traverse Trek is one of the most unique and adventurous treks in Nepal, offering an unforgettable journey through the remote and rugged landscapes of the Dolpo region and the stunning Rara Lake. This trek combines the remote wilderness of Dolpo, known for its Tibetan-like culture, with the tranquil beauty of Rara Lake, the largest lake in Nepal, located in the Rara National Park. The trek is a perfect choice for those seeking a true off-the-beaten-path adventure, as it takes you through isolated villages, high-altitude passes, deep valleys, and dense forests, all while immersing you in the rich culture and traditions of the region’s ethnic communities.

The Dolpo Rara Traverse Trek typically lasts around 18 to 22 days, depending on the pace and itinerary. The trek begins in the lower Dolpo region, where you’ll experience the rugged terrain, beautiful forests, and ancient monasteries. From there, you traverse high passes that offer panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including the majestic Kanjiroba Himal and Himalchuli. As you descend toward Rara Lake, the landscapes change dramatically, and you’ll be greeted by the serene, turquoise waters of the lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. This trek is for experienced trekkers who are ready to face high altitudes, challenging terrain, and unpredictable weather conditions.

Transportation (Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (Flight) & Nepalgunj to Jhupal (Flight))
The Dolpo Rara Traverse Trek begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, a city in western Nepal that serves as the gateway to the Dolpo region. The flight offers fantastic views of the Himalayas and the Terai region. From Nepalgunj, you will take another flight to Jhupal, a small airstrip in the Dolpo region that serves as the starting point of the trek. The flight from Nepalgunj to Jhupal is a scenic journey, providing a glimpse of the beautiful landscapes you will explore on foot.

Once you arrive in Jhupal, your trekking adventure begins, taking you through various villages and mountain passes toward Rara Lake. After completing the trek, the return journey follows the same flight route, back from Jhupal to Nepalgunj, and then a connecting flight to Kathmandu. Explore Holiday Nepal takes care of all your transportation needs, ensuring a smooth and seamless travel experience from start to finish.

Important Note

Trip Itinerary

Start your adventure with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, located in the western region of Nepal. The flight is around 50 minutes long and offers beautiful views of the Himalayas as you descend into the lowland plains. Upon arrival in Nepalgunj, you’ll have time to explore the local market or relax in preparation for your journey into the remote Dolpo region.

After breakfast, take a flight from Nepalgunj to Jhupal, a small town in the Dolpo region. The flight offers dramatic views of the mountains and valleys below. Once you arrive in Jhupal, you will begin your trek towards Chhepak. The trek will take about 6 hours, following scenic trails through villages, forests, and agricultural land. At Chhepak, you’ll rest for the night at a comfortable altitude of 2,830 meters.

Today’s trek will take you to Chunuwar, located at 3,130 meters. The trail takes about 6 hours, passing through dense forests of pine and oak. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture as you walk through traditional villages. Upon arrival in Chunuwar, you’ll be welcomed by the serene beauty of the surroundings and prepare for the upcoming days of trekking.

The trail today is a relatively short but beautiful hike to Ringmo, a village nestled at 3,612 meters. It takes about 4 hours to reach Ringmo, where you’ll be able to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Ringmo is located near the serene Phoksundo Lake, one of the most scenic places in Dolpo. You’ll enjoy stunning views of the turquoise lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

To ensure proper acclimatization to the altitude, today is a rest day in Ringmo. You can take a short hike around the area to explore the surroundings or relax and enjoy the tranquility of this remote village. Your guide will also brief you on the next leg of the journey, making sure you’re ready for the days ahead.

Today, the trek takes you from Ringmo to Chunemba, a village at 3,639 meters. The journey takes around 5 hours and offers beautiful views of Phoksundo Lake from different angles. You will pass through forests, grassy meadows, and traditional settlements, getting a glimpse of the local way of life. Chunemba provides a peaceful environment to rest for the night.

The trek today leads you to Snowfield Camp, located at 4,400 meters. It’s a challenging day with a 7-hour trek through alpine terrain. The trail ascends gradually, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. Snowfield Camp is a remote spot surrounded by stunning snow-covered landscapes, where you will set up camp for the night.

On this day, you will trek for about 6 hours to reach Shey Gompa, a sacred monastery situated at 4,310 meters. The journey is challenging but rewarding, with magnificent views of the high Himalayas. Shey Gompa is a spiritual center for the Dolpo people, and you’ll have the chance to visit the monastery, which holds great significance in the region.

Today’s trek takes you to Bhijer, a village located at 3,850 meters. It’s a 6-hour hike through rugged terrain, offering views of dramatic landscapes and high-altitude valleys. Bhijer is a small but picturesque village where you can rest and enjoy the local atmosphere.

The trek continues for about 8 hours as you make your way to Pho, situated at 4,087 meters. The journey takes you through a series of ascents and descents, crossing rivers, valleys, and remote villages. Pho is an isolated village where you will spend the night, with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the mountain views.

Trekking for around 7 hours, you will reach Pung Kharka, located at 4,650 meters. The route takes you through scenic landscapes, with panoramic views of snow-covered peaks and valleys. Pung Kharka is a high-altitude settlement that provides a perfect base for further exploration of the Dolpo region.

Today, you will trek for about 6 hours to reach Chyandi Khola, situated at 4,830 meters. The trail ascends steadily through rocky paths and alpine meadows, providing excellent views of the surrounding mountains. Chyandi Khola is a remote campsite, offering a peaceful environment amidst the stunning natural beauty of the region.

A 7-hour trek today takes you to Takla Khola, located at 3,785 meters. The trail descends gradually through deep gorges and river valleys, offering a change of scenery from the previous days. Takla Khola is a quiet, scenic spot where you’ll rest for the night before continuing your journey.

The trek today will take you to Thaju Chaur, situated at 4,050 meters. The 7-hour journey will take you through forested trails and remote villages, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Thaju Chaur is a quiet area with few people, offering an ideal place to rest and rejuvenate.

Today’s trek will take you to Shilen Chaur Kharka, located at 2,945 meters. The 6-hour hike will pass through varied terrain, including alpine meadows and forests, before reaching the peaceful site of Shilen Chaur Kharka. It’s a serene place to relax and take in the beauty of the surroundings.

After breakfast, you’ll continue your trek for about 4 hours to reach Tiyar, located at 2,418 meters. The route takes you through lowland villages and farmland, offering a beautiful contrast to the higher altitudes you’ve traversed in the past few days. Tiyar is a small village where you will rest and prepare for the next part of your journey.

The trek today takes you to Mangri, situated at 1,950 meters. The 4-hour hike descends through lush forests and rural settlements, offering a more gradual and comfortable pace. Mangri is a small village where you can relax and enjoy the local culture and hospitality.

Today, the trek takes you to Gamgadi, the administrative center of Dolpo, located at 2,095 meters. The 4-hour trek offers an opportunity to explore the surrounding region, with views of terraced fields and traditional settlements. Gamgadi is a vibrant town where you can rest and explore the local markets.

On this day, you’ll reach Rara Lake, situated at 2,980 meters. The 4-hour trek takes you through forests and scenic ridges, with the lake appearing gradually as you get closer. Rara Lake is the largest lake in Nepal and is known for its deep blue color and tranquil surroundings. It’s a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the stunning views.

Take a day trip around Rara Lake, exploring the stunning viewpoints that offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and the lake itself. The trek around the lake takes about 4 hours, with plenty of time to soak in the natural beauty and take photos of this serene environment.

After breakfast, take a short 3-hour trek to Talcha, situated at 2,990 meters. Talcha is a small settlement near the lake, offering a peaceful and scenic spot to relax after your trek. It’s a great place to reflect on your journey and enjoy the last moments of your adventure in the Dolpo region.

After breakfast, take a flight from Talcha to Nepalgunj, followed by a connecting flight to Kathmandu. This concludes your Dolpo Rara Traverse Trek with Explore Holiday Nepal. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you can relax and reflect on the unforgettable experiences you’ve had on this incredible journey through one of Nepal’s most remote and stunning regions.

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Includes

  • All arrival and departure transportation (airport to hotel and vice versa).
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast.
  • Guided Kathmandu city tour.
  • Domestic flights Kathmandu to Juphal (via Nepalgunj).
  • All necessary trekking permits (including Dolpo Restricted Area Permit and Rara Lake permit).
  • Full board during the trek (meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner).
  • Trek guide and porters (with wages, meals, accommodation, and insurance).
  • Group dinner upon arrival or departure with a trek briefing.
  • Comprehensive medical kit carried by the guide.
  • Private vehicles for sightseeing (based on group size) with a city guide.

Doesn't Include

  • Nepal visa and medical/travel insurance.
  • Meals in Kathmandu and personal expenses (laundry, etc.).
  • Single room accommodation (if preferred) at extra cost.
  • Emergency evacuation (any transport/helivac services).
  • Personal trek gear (sleeping bag, jackets, duffel bag, etc.).
  • Additional snacks, refreshments, and drinking water.
  • Extra costs for early trek departure (personal reasons/illness).
  • Personal medical kit based on doctor's advice.

Trip Info

The Dolpo Rara Traverse Trek is an extraordinary journey through some of Nepal's most remote and unspoiled regions. This trek offers a unique opportunity to explore both the mystical landscapes of Dolpo and the tranquil beauty of Rara Lake. It’s perfect for adventurous trekkers looking for a challenging and off-the-beaten-path experience.

Dolpo Rara Traverse Trekking Permits

Trekking in the Dolpo region requires special permits as it lies within a restricted area of Nepal. For the Dolpo Rara Traverse Trek, trekkers need to obtain a Dolpo Restricted Area Permit and a Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card. The Dolpo Restricted Area Permit is required to access the Dolpo region and must be obtained through a licensed trekking agency. The permit is issued by the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu and is a requirement to ensure the preservation of the unique culture and environment of the region.

In addition to the Dolpo Restricted Area Permit, trekkers must also carry the TIMS card, which is a mandatory permit for all trekkers in Nepal to ensure safety and proper monitoring of trekking activities. These permits are arranged by Explore Holiday Nepal, who will take care of the logistics, paperwork, and formalities. We ensure that all necessary permits are obtained before your departure, so you can focus entirely on enjoying your adventure.

Dolpo Rara Traverse Trekking Difficulty

The Dolpo Rara Traverse Trek is considered a challenging trek, suitable for experienced trekkers with a good level of physical fitness and a willingness to endure long trekking days in high-altitude conditions. The route involves traversing high-altitude passes, some over 5,000 meters (16,404 feet), and hiking through rugged and remote landscapes. The terrain includes steep ascents and descents, rocky trails, and limited infrastructure, making the trek physically demanding.

The high altitude poses an additional challenge, and trekkers must acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness. The trek requires mental and physical endurance, as you will be trekking for long hours each day, sometimes in challenging weather conditions. Proper preparation, including physical conditioning and mental resilience, is essential for successfully completing the trek. Explore Holiday Nepal ensures that the itinerary is designed with enough acclimatization days and gradual ascents to minimize altitude-related issues, but trekkers should still be prepared for a tough, rewarding journey.

Best Time for Dolpo Rara Traverse Trekking

The best time to embark on the Dolpo Rara Traverse Trek is during the autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) seasons. During these months, the weather is relatively stable, with clear skies and mild temperatures that are ideal for trekking in the high-altitude regions. In autumn, the landscapes are particularly stunning, with the surrounding mountains bathed in golden light and clear views of the peaks. Spring offers the added bonus of blooming rhododendrons and other wildflowers, which enhance the beauty of the trek.

The winter months (December to February) bring harsh weather conditions, with heavy snow and freezing temperatures, making the trek not only difficult but also potentially dangerous due to the risk of avalanches and extreme cold. Similarly, the monsoon season (June to August) is not ideal, as the heavy rainfall makes the trails slippery and prone to landslides, especially in remote and high-altitude areas. For the best trekking conditions and safety, we recommend scheduling the trek during the autumn or spring months.

Why Choose Us - Explore Holiday Nepal

At Explore Holiday Nepal, we are committed to providing exceptional and personalized trekking experiences. We specialize in organizing remote and challenging treks like the Dolpo Rara Traverse Trek, offering expert guidance, safe logistics, and deep local knowledge. Our professional team of guides and porters are not only well-trained but also deeply familiar with the terrain, ensuring that your journey through this rugged and isolated region is smooth and safe.

We prioritize sustainable tourism and work closely with local communities, making sure that the benefits of tourism reach the people in the regions we visit. Our goal is to offer you a safe, rewarding, and enriching adventure, with top-notch support and expertise throughout your trek. With Explore Holiday Nepal, you are assured of high-quality service, professional staff, and an unforgettable experience in one of Nepal’s most stunning and remote regions.

Transportation (Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (Flight) & Nepalgunj to Jhupal (Flight))

The Dolpo Rara Traverse Trek begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, a city in western Nepal that serves as the gateway to the Dolpo region. The flight offers fantastic views of the Himalayas and the Terai region. From Nepalgunj, you will take another flight to Jhupal, a small airstrip in the Dolpo region that serves as the starting point of the trek. The flight from Nepalgunj to Jhupal is a scenic journey, providing a glimpse of the beautiful landscapes you will explore on foot.

Once you arrive in Jhupal, your trekking adventure begins, taking you through various villages and mountain passes toward Rara Lake. After completing the trek, the return journey follows the same flight route, back from Jhupal to Nepalgunj, and then a connecting flight to Kathmandu. Explore Holiday Nepal takes care of all your transportation needs, ensuring a smooth and seamless travel experience from start to finish.

Trip and the Weather

The weather in the Dolpo region can be unpredictable, especially in higher altitudes. At lower elevations, such as Nepalgunj and Jhupal, the weather is relatively warm and mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C during the trekking season. As you ascend to higher altitudes, the weather becomes much colder, particularly at night, where temperatures can drop well below freezing. The Rara Lake region, situated at 2,990 meters (9,810 feet), experiences chilly temperatures even during the warmer seasons.

In general, autumn and spring offer the best weather conditions for trekking, with clear skies, mild temperatures, and stunning views of the surrounding peaks and lakes. However, trekkers should be prepared for sudden changes in weather, including snowstorms or rain showers, particularly in the higher passes. Explore Holiday Nepal ensures that you are well-equipped to handle the weather conditions, providing advice on appropriate clothing and gear for the trek.

Food and Accommodation

Accommodation along the Dolpo Rara Traverse Trek is generally in tea houses or basic lodges, which are small, locally run guesthouses. These tea houses provide simple rooms with basic facilities, such as beds with blankets and shared bathrooms. At higher altitudes, accommodations become more basic, and in some remote areas, camping may be necessary. However, the warm hospitality of the local people and the charm of the tea houses make for a cozy atmosphere after a long day of trekking.

The food served along the trek primarily consists of Nepali and Tibetan cuisine, including dishes like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momos (dumplings), noodle soups, and vegetables. As you climb to higher altitudes, the availability of fresh produce becomes limited, so the menu tends to be more basic. Despite the simplicity, the meals are nourishing and provide the energy needed to tackle the demanding terrain. Explore Holiday Nepal ensures that your meals are prepared with care and that you have the right balance of nutrition throughout the trek.

Communication and Networking

During the Dolpo Rara Traverse Trek, communication is limited, especially as you ascend to higher altitudes. Mobile phone coverage is available in some lower areas like Jhupal and Nepalgunj, but it is generally unreliable and often unavailable in remote villages. Some of the tea houses in lower altitudes may have access to satellite phones or limited Wi-Fi, but these are slow and can be expensive.

For emergencies, Explore Holiday Nepal provides satellite phones for the trekking team, ensuring that you can communicate with the outside world if needed. While communication may be sparse in the high-altitude regions, we ensure that your safety is a priority and that you have access to necessary emergency services.

Explore Holiday Treks Team for Dolpo Rara Traverse Trek

The team at Explore Holiday Nepal is made up of highly experienced and trained guides who are experts in the Dolpo region. Our guides are knowledgeable not only about the trails but also about the local culture, history, and wildlife of the area. They are trained in first aid and high-altitude trekking, ensuring your safety and well-being throughout the journey. We also work with local porters who are familiar with the terrain, and who will support you in carrying your gear, ensuring that you can focus on the trek itself.

Our team is dedicated to making your Dolpo Rara Traverse Trek an unforgettable experience. We ensure that every detail of the trek, from permits to accommodations to food, is taken care of so that you can enjoy your adventure to the fullest. With Explore Holiday Nepal, you’re in expert hands, ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and enriching journey.

Dolpo Rara Traverse Trek Starting and Ending Points

The Dolpo Rara Traverse Trek begins in Kathmandu, where you take flights to Nepalgunj and then to Jhupal, the starting point of the trek. The trek itself starts in Jhupal and follows a route through beautiful forests, villages, and high-altitude passes. After reaching Rara Lake and completing the trek, you retrace your steps back to Jhupal for the return flight to Nepalgunj and then back to Kathmandu.

Important Note

The Dolpo Rara Traverse Trek is a physically demanding trek and is best suited for experienced trekkers in good physical condition. The terrain can be challenging, and the high altitudes require proper acclimatization. Adequate physical preparation, including endurance training and strength conditioning, is essential for success.

We also recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers medical evacuation, high-altitude trekking, and other unforeseen circumstances. At Explore Holiday Nepal, we are committed to ensuring that you have a safe and successful trek, offering expert guidance, support, and logistics throughout the journey.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The Dolpo Rara Traverse Trek is an exceptional and remote trekking route that traverses two of the most stunning locations in Nepal: Dolpo and Rara Lake. The trek begins in the rugged, Tibetan-influenced region of Dolpo, where you will pass through villages that seem frozen in time, high-altitude landscapes, and dramatic mountain views. The journey then continues to Rara Lake, the largest lake in Nepal, surrounded by pristine forests and snow-capped peaks. The trek offers a unique opportunity to experience the cultural richness of the Tibetan Buddhist communities in Dolpo, along with an unforgettable exploration of Rara Lake's serene beauty.

Choosing Explore Holiday Nepal for the Dolpo Rara Traverse Trek ensures a smooth, safe, and immersive experience. Our team has extensive experience organizing treks in remote regions of Nepal, and we provide personalized services, including knowledgeable local guides, professional porters, and exceptional logistical support. We prioritize your safety with proper acclimatization schedules, first-aid equipment, and emergency evacuation plans. Our expertise in navigating Nepal's less-traveled regions guarantees that you will have a hassle-free and memorable trekking experience in some of the most beautiful and isolated areas of Nepal.

The Dolpo Rara Traverse Trek is a challenging and strenuous trek, primarily due to the rugged terrain, high altitudes, and remote nature of the route. The highest point on this trek is Nagdalo La Pass, which stands at about 5,100 meters (16,732 feet), and trekkers will be exposed to a variety of conditions, from high-altitude mountain passes to deep valleys. The trek involves long days of hiking over rocky terrain, and basic amenities are available only in certain sections of the trail. It’s recommended for trekkers with a good level of fitness and previous trekking experience at high altitudes. Acclimatization is key, and Explore Holiday Nepal ensures that rest days are incorporated into the itinerary to help mitigate altitude sickness.

The best time to do the Dolpo Rara Traverse Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these periods, the weather is generally clear, offering excellent views of the mountains, lakes, and surrounding landscapes. Spring also brings blooming wildflowers, including rhododendrons, while autumn offers clear skies and crisp mountain air. The trek is best avoided in the monsoon season (June to August) due to the risk of heavy rainfall, landslides, and trail conditions. Winter (December to February) is also not ideal due to snowstorms and extreme cold.

Accommodation during the Dolpo Rara Traverse Trek is basic, especially in remote areas. You will stay in local teahouses and guesthouses run by the indigenous people. These lodges provide simple rooms, warm beds, and local food such as dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), noodles, and chapati. In higher-altitude areas, particularly near passes, you may need to camp, as there are fewer facilities. Sleeping bags, a good mattress, and other camping equipment will be provided by Explore Holiday Nepal as needed.

The highest point of the Dolpo Rara Traverse Trek is Nagdalo La Pass, at an elevation of 5,100 meters (16,732 feet). Trekking at high altitudes for extended periods increases the risk of altitude sickness, so it’s vital to follow the acclimatization schedule carefully. Explore Holiday Nepal plans the itinerary to allow enough time for acclimatization at lower altitudes before ascending to higher regions.

Yes, it is highly recommended to trek with a guide and porter. The Dolpo Rara Traverse Trek goes through remote, isolated areas with limited infrastructure, and having a guide will ensure that you stay on track and safely navigate difficult terrain. A porter will help carry your heavy gear, allowing you to focus on the trek itself. Explore Holiday Nepal provides experienced, licensed guides and reliable porters to support you throughout the journey.

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Art representing various natural and cultutal heritages of Nepal