Lower Dolpo is the southern and more accessible part of the Dolpo region. It includes Phoksundo Lake and the Tarap valley and offers a multi-week trek with Bon and Buddhist villages and high passes.
The loop between Phoksundo and the Tarap valley
Lower Dolpo is the southern half of the Dolpo region, and the usual trek here links Shey Phoksundo Lake with Dho Tarap, a high valley with a mixed Tibetan and Magar community. It crosses two or three passes above 5,000 m, so it is much harder than the lake alone, yet it needs less time and paperwork than Upper Dolpo. Many travellers think of it as the best sample of Dolpo.
Dho Tarap and its people
The Tarap valley lies at about 4,000 m, with villages built of stone and clay, barley fields that ripen only in summer and herds of yaks and goats. The residents follow a mix of Buddhism and Bon. Several monasteries are close to the main settlement. Because snow cuts the valley off from the rest of Nepal in winter, the community has long relied on seasonal trade.
The passes
Most itineraries cross the Numa La (about 5,190 m) and the Baga La (about 5,070 m) between Phoksundo and Dho Tarap. Published heights vary by a few tens of metres. Both passes are walking passes rather than climbs, but they involve long days, steep scree, loose ground and weather risk.
Landscape
The valleys are deep and dry, with sparse juniper and wild blue sheep on the cliffs. Snow leopards live in the region but are rarely seen. In summer, flowers and grass carpet the high pastures.
Who it suits
Experienced trekkers who can handle several nights above 4,000 m and who accept camping and basic food.
Wildlife and plants
Blue sheep graze on the slopes, and snow leopards, wolves and Himalayan tahr share the territory. Marmots whistle near the passes. In summer the meadows are full of alpine flowers and aromatic herbs which local people harvest for medicine and incense.
Local medicine and trade
The region is known for traditional Tibetan medicine, and many families practise as amchi, or healers. Herbs and caterpillar fungus are collected and traded. Salt and grain caravans also pass through the passes.
Planning
Read the itinerary and the permit guide. See also the Phoksundo hub.
