Dunai is the main town on the approach to Dolpo, a short walk from the airstrip at Juphal. It sits at about 2,150 m beside the Bheri river. Trekkers pass through for permit checks, final supplies and an easy first night before following the river toward Chhepka and Phoksundo.
Altitude: about 2,150 m. Heights quoted for villages and camps vary by source, so treat this as a guide.
Where Dunai is and why trekkers stop
Most Dolpo treks fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, then on to Juphal at about 2,500 m, and walk to Dunai in around three hours. Dunai is where the trek really begins. It is the last proper town for a long time, so groups use the evening to check bags, sort permits and confirm plans for the days ahead.
The walk down from the airstrip is short, so you can reach town with energy left to wander the lanes, buy snacks and have a proper rest before the real trekking starts.
What to expect at Dunai
The town has shops, a bank, simple lodges and a busy permit office atmosphere. Our guides note that officers at Dunai and at the park gate check permits again, so keep printed copies in a waterproof bag. Dolpo includes restricted areas, so a licensed guide and the right permits through a registered agency are required for the upper regions.
Evenings are busy with groups sorting loads and porters being briefed. Use the time to check that your boots, rain gear and sleeping bag are ready, because replacing them further up is hard.
Altitude and how you may feel
Dunai sits at about 2,150 m, lower than Juphal, so the walk down from the airstrip is easy on the body. Sleeping altitude then rises steadily as the camps climb along the river. Altitude illness can strike higher up on this route, so ascend slowly, drink water and descend if symptoms worsen.
Even though Dunai is comfortable, tomorrow's camps rise steadily, so drink well tonight and keep alcohol light. A good night's sleep here sets a calm rhythm for the days ahead.
Lodging, food and practical tips
Lodges at Dunai are basic but adequate. There is a bank in Dunai, but do not rely on it, so carry rupees. Fresh vegetables are scarce above Dunai, so bring vitamins and snacks. Buy any last items here, since shopping options shrink fast. Keep permits, passport copies and cash organised in a waterproof pouch.
Keep phone and charger accessible, as signal and power can be patchy beyond town. Write down emergency contacts on paper, and leave a copy of your itinerary with someone at home.
Common questions
How far is Dunai from Juphal?
Our guides describe the walk from Juphal to Dunai as around three hours. Actual time varies with pace and trail conditions, and the route follows the river valley downhill.
Can I withdraw money in Dunai?
There is a bank in Dunai, but do not rely on it. Carry enough rupees from Kathmandu or Nepalgunj for the whole trek, as nothing further up accepts cards.
Are permits checked at Dunai?
Yes. Officers at Dunai and at the park gate check permits, so keep printed copies in a waterproof bag. Restricted areas also need a licensed guide arranged through a registered agency.
