Lower Dolpo needs the Shey Phoksundo National Park entry fee and trekking registration through an agency. Rules and fees change, so confirm what applies to your route.
Permits
The Lower Dolpo circuit needs a Shey Phoksundo National Park permit and may require a restricted-area permit depending on the route. We check the requirements at booking.
Guide and crew
A registered guide is required, and the crew carries the camping gear.
Flights
Kathmandu to Nepalgunj to Juphal. Delays happen.
Money
Carry rupees.
Applying for permits
Your operator handles the paperwork. Provide a passport copy, your visa and the dates of the trek well before departure. Permits are checked at Dunai and at the park entry.
Logistics at a glance
Flights to Juphal, a crew of guides and porters, camping equipment, food for the whole trek and a medical kit are the main requirements. Allow two or three reserve days.
How the paperwork flows
Permits for Dolpo are issued through registered trekking agencies, not to individual walkers. Your agency collects copies of your passport and visa, submits the application in Kathmandu and receives the permit before the flight to Nepalgunj. Allow at least a week of lead time, and longer in the peak autumn season when offices are busy. Officers at Dunai and at the park gate check the permits again, so keep printed copies in a waterproof bag.
Crew, camps and food
The trek is run as a supported camping expedition. A typical group has a sirdar or lead guide, a cook and kitchen helper, and porters or mules who carry tents, stoves and food for the whole trip. Meals are cooked fresh and usually include porridge or eggs for breakfast, a hot lunch on the trail, and a three course dinner. Fresh vegetables are scarce above Dunai, so bring vitamins and snacks. Water is boiled or treated.
Common questions
- Do I need a special permit? Check with your operator for the route you choose.
- Is a guide required? Yes for permit and safety reasons.
- How are supplies handled? Crews carry most food and fuel.
Next
Read the itinerary.
Flights and supplies
Flights to Juphal run in good weather only. Carry all supplies for the trek and keep spare days around the flight.
