Classic Lower Dolpo trek

1. Remote and Untouched Wilderness

• Pristine Landscapes:
  • Trek through one of Nepal’s most remote and least explored regions, characterized by rugged terrain, deep valleys, and stunning mountain vistas.
• Shey Phoksundo National Park:
  • Traverse the largest national park in Nepal, home to diverse flora and fauna, including snow leopards, Himalayan blue sheep, and the elusive musk deer.

2. Phoksundo Lake

• Turquoise Gem:
  • Visit the breathtaking Phoksundo Lake, one of the deepest and most pristine lakes in Nepal, known for its striking turquoise color and surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
• Bonpo Monastery:
  • Explore the ancient Bonpo monasteries near Phoksundo Lake, which offer insights into the unique Bon religion and its practices.

3. Rich Cultural Heritage

• Tibetan Influence:
  • Experience the rich Tibetan-influenced culture of the Dolpo region, with opportunities to visit ancient monasteries, gompas, and traditional villages.
• Authentic Villages:
  • Interact with the warm and hospitable people of Dolpo, who have preserved their traditional lifestyle and customs for centuries.

4. High Mountain Passes

• Challenging Passes:
  • Cross high mountain passes such as Numa La (5,190m) and Baga La (5,070m), offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
• Adventure and Thrill:
  • Experience the thrill of trekking in a remote area with challenging trails, where few trekkers venture, making it a true off-the-beaten-path adventure.

5. Diverse Flora and Fauna

• Biodiversity:
  • Witness a variety of ecosystems, from lush forests in lower regions to arid, barren landscapes at higher altitudes, providing a unique trekking experience.
• Wildlife Encounters:
  • Opportunity to spot rare wildlife species in their natural habitat, including the Himalayan griffon, Tibetan hare, and the endangered snow leopard.

6. Spectacular Mountain Views

• Majestic Peaks:
  • Enjoy uninterrupted views of the Dhaulagiri range, Kanjiroba Himal, and other towering peaks, offering a spectacular backdrop to your trekking journey.
• Photographic Opportunities:
  • Capture the dramatic landscapes, traditional villages, and vibrant cultures through your lens, making this trek a photographer’s paradise.

7. Spiritual and Tranquil Experience

• Pilgrimage Sites:
  • Visit sacred sites and monasteries, providing a spiritual dimension to your trek, and allowing for moments of reflection and tranquility.
• Serene Environment:
  • Trek in a peaceful and less-traveled region, away from the crowds, where you can connect with nature and enjoy the serenity of the Himalayas.

8. Cultural Festivals (Seasonal)

• Local Festivals:
  • If you time your trek right, you may have the chance to witness or participate in local festivals, which are vibrant displays of Dolpo's unique culture and traditions.

1. Pre-Trek Briefing

• Orientation:
  • A pre-trek briefing will be conducted in Kathmandu (or the starting point) a day before the trek begins. This briefing will cover the itinerary, safety protocols, equipment checks, and other essential information.
• Attendance:
  • It is mandatory for all participants to attend the briefing. If you cannot attend, please inform us in advance so that alternative arrangements can be made.

2. Accommodation Details

• Teahouses/Lodges:
  • Accommodation during the trek will be in teahouses or lodges, which are basic but comfortable. Rooms are usually twin-sharing with shared bathroom facilities. In some remote areas, facilities may be more basic.
• Camping (if applicable):
  • In some regions, where teahouses are unavailable, camping will be arranged. The company will provide tents, sleeping mats, and other camping equipment. You are responsible for your sleeping bag and personal items.

3. Meals and Dietary Requirements

• Included Meals:
  • Meals are typically included in the trek cost and are provided at the teahouses or campsites. Meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a mix of local and Western dishes.
• Special Diets:
  • If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, please inform us at the time of booking. While we will do our best to accommodate your needs, options may be limited in remote areas.

4. Altitude Sickness and Acclimatization

• Acclimatization Days:
  • The itinerary includes acclimatization days to help your body adjust to the altitude. It is crucial to follow the guide’s instructions during these days.
• Symptoms of Altitude Sickness:
  • Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness, including headaches, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. If you experience any of these, inform your guide immediately.
• Emergency Descent:
  • If you experience severe altitude sickness, an emergency descent will be arranged. The cost of evacuation is the client’s responsibility, so ensure your insurance covers high-altitude evacuation.

5. Fitness and Training

• Physical Preparation:
  • We recommend that you engage in regular physical exercise before the trek, including cardiovascular, strength, and endurance training. Trekking at high altitudes can be physically demanding.
• Consult Your Doctor:
  • It is advisable to consult with your doctor before the trek, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions or are taking any medications.

6. Weather Conditions

• Weather Variability:
  • Weather in the mountains can be unpredictable. While the best trekking seasons are typically spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), you should be prepared for sudden changes in weather, including rain, snow, and cold temperatures.
• Gear Recommendations:
  • Ensure you have appropriate clothing and gear for varying weather conditions, including a good quality waterproof jacket, thermal layers, and sun protection.

7. Packing Guidelines

• Weight Limits:
  • There may be weight limits for baggage on domestic flights or if you’re using porters. Typically, this limit is 15-20 kg (33-44 lbs) per person. Excess baggage may incur additional charges.
• Recommended Items:
  • Refer to the Trekking Equipment section for a detailed list of recommended items. Pack light but ensure you have all essential items.

8. Responsible Travel

• Cultural Sensitivity:
  • Respect the local culture and traditions. Dress modestly, ask for permission before taking photos of people, and be mindful of local customs and practices.
• Environmental Conservation:
  • Follow Leave No Trace principles. Do not litter, avoid single-use plastics, and stay on designated trails to minimize your environmental impact.

9. Emergency Contact Information

• During the Trek:
  • In case of emergencies, your guide will have a satellite phone or a means of communication to contact the main office and arrange for assistance or evacuation.
• For Family and Friends:
  • Provide your family and friends with the company’s emergency contact details, including a phone number and email address, in case they need to reach you during the trek.

10. Gratitude and Tipping

• Tipping Guidelines:
  • Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated by the guides, porters, and support staff. A general guideline is to tip 10-15% of the trek cost, distributed among the staff. Your guide can help coordinate the tipping.

We understand that plans can change, and we strive to be as accommodating as possible. However, as we incur costs in organizing your trek, the following cancellation policy applies:

1. Cancellation by the Client

• Cancellation Before 60 Days of Departure:
  • Refund: 90% of the total trip cost will be refunded.
  • Non-Refundable: 10% of the total trip cost (administrative and planning fees).
• Cancellation Between 30-59 Days of Departure:
  • Refund: 70% of the total trip cost will be refunded.
  • Non-Refundable: 30% of the total trip cost.
• Cancellation Between 15-29 Days of Departure:
  • Refund: 50% of the total trip cost will be refunded.
  • Non-Refundable: 50% of the total trip cost.
• Cancellation Less Than 15 Days of Departure:
  • Refund: No refund will be provided.
  • Non-Refundable: 100% of the total trip cost.

2. Cancellation by the Company

• In Case of Unforeseen Circumstances:
  • If the trek is canceled due to unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters, political unrest, or other situations beyond our control, we will offer the following options:
    • Reschedule: The trek can be rescheduled to a later date without additional charges.
    • Alternative Trek: An alternative trek of similar value can be arranged.
    • Refund: A refund will be provided, minus any non-recoverable costs (e.g., permits, flights, etc.).
• Minimum Participant Requirement:
  • If the trek has to be canceled due to not meeting the minimum participant requirement, we will inform you at least 30 days before the departure date and offer the following options:
    • Reschedule: Join the same trek at a later date.
    • Alternative Trek: Choose an alternative trek.
    • Full Refund: Receive a full refund of the trip cost.

3. Changes to the Itinerary

• Voluntary Changes:
  • Any voluntary changes made by the client to the itinerary after booking may incur additional costs. These costs will be communicated and must be agreed upon before any changes are made.
• Involuntary Changes:
  • Changes made to the itinerary due to weather conditions, safety concerns, or other factors beyond our control will not be eligible for a refund. We will make every effort to arrange an alternative trek or experience of equivalent value.

4. No-Show Policy

• If the client fails to arrive on the scheduled departure date without prior notice, no refund will be provided.

5. Insurance

• We highly recommend that all clients purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip cancellations, medical expenses, and emergency evacuations.

6. Refund Process

• Refunds will be processed within 14 business days after receiving a written cancellation request. Refunds will be made through the original payment method, minus any applicable bank charges or transaction fees.

We understand that plans can change, and we strive to be as accommodating as possible. However, as we incur costs in organizing your trek, the following cancellation policy applies:

1. Cancellation by the Client

• Cancellation Before 60 Days of Departure:
  • Refund: 90% of the total trip cost will be refunded.
  • Non-Refundable: 10% of the total trip cost (administrative and planning fees).
• Cancellation Between 30-59 Days of Departure:
  • Refund: 70% of the total trip cost will be refunded.
  • Non-Refundable: 30% of the total trip cost.
• Cancellation Between 15-29 Days of Departure:
  • Refund: 50% of the total trip cost will be refunded.
  • Non-Refundable: 50% of the total trip cost.
• Cancellation Less Than 15 Days of Departure:
  • Refund: No refund will be provided.
  • Non-Refundable: 100% of the total trip cost.

2. Cancellation by the Company

• In Case of Unforeseen Circumstances:
  • If the trek is canceled due to unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters, political unrest, or other situations beyond our control, we will offer the following options:
    • Reschedule: The trek can be rescheduled to a later date without additional charges.
    • Alternative Trek: An alternative trek of similar value can be arranged.
    • Refund: A refund will be provided, minus any non-recoverable costs (e.g., permits, flights, etc.).
• Minimum Participant Requirement:
  • If the trek has to be canceled due to not meeting the minimum participant requirement, we will inform you at least 30 days before the departure date and offer the following options:
    • Reschedule: Join the same trek at a later date.
    • Alternative Trek: Choose an alternative trek.
    • Full Refund: Receive a full refund of the trip cost.

3. Changes to the Itinerary

• Voluntary Changes:
  • Any voluntary changes made by the client to the itinerary after booking may incur additional costs. These costs will be communicated and must be agreed upon before any changes are made.
• Involuntary Changes:
  • Changes made to the itinerary due to weather conditions, safety concerns, or other factors beyond our control will not be eligible for a refund. We will make every effort to arrange an alternative trek or experience of equivalent value.

4. No-Show Policy

• If the client fails to arrive on the scheduled departure date without prior notice, no refund will be provided.

5. Insurance

• We highly recommend that all clients purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip cancellations, medical expenses, and emergency evacuations.

6. Refund Process

• Refunds will be processed within 14 business days after receiving a written cancellation request. Refunds will be made through the original payment method, minus any applicable bank charges or transaction fees.