Experience the Lower Dolpo Trek in October, where clear autumn skies, crisp mountain air, and vibrant landscapes create the perfect setting for adventure. Traverse altitudes from 2,285m to 5,190m, with daytime temperatures ranging from 12°C to 6°C, and witness the serene beauty of Phoksundo Lake and the majestic Himalayan passes.
The Lower Dolpo region, nestled in Nepal's remote northwest, is a sanctuary of rugged beauty, where untamed landscapes meet a rich tapestry of culture. As you embark on the journey through this mystical land, the weather and temperature unfold as an integral part of the trek's narrative, shaping each moment and guiding every step.
The trek begins at lower elevations, typically around 2,285 meters (7,497 feet) at Juphal, where the air is crisp and welcoming. October, a favored month for this adventure, paints the region in hues of autumn. At this altitude, the temperatures during the day linger between 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F), offering a gentle warmth under a sun that filters through the scattered clouds. The mornings and evenings, however, whisper of the approaching winter, with the mercury dipping to 2°C to 5°C (36°F to 41°F).
As you ascend towards Phoksundo Lake at 3,611 meters (11,849 feet), the weather begins to unveil its dramatic contrasts. The cerulean skies stretch wide, their clarity interrupted only by the snow-dusted peaks that seem to touch the heavens. Here, daytime temperatures range from 8°C to 14°C (46°F to 57°F), while the nights embrace a sharper chill, often dropping to -2°C to 2°C (28°F to 36°F). The alpine breezes carry with them a sense of wonder, mingling with the earthy aroma of pine forests and the faint, distant chime of yak bells.
The journey onwards takes you to higher passes, such as the Numa La Pass at 5,190 meters (17,028 feet) and the Bagala La Pass at 5,070 meters (16,630 feet). Here, the air grows thinner, and the temperatures reflect the stark beauty of these altitudes. During the day, the sun casts a deceiving warmth, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 6°C (36°F to 43°F), but the evenings and nights descend into a wintry embrace, with temperatures plunging to -8°C to -5°C (17°F to 23°F). These high passes demand resilience, as the weather often shifts unpredictably, with gusts of wind and a possibility of light snowfall adding to the challenge and mystique.
October graces Lower Dolpo with its most inviting weather, a reprieve from the monsoon's rains and the biting chill of winter. The skies remain predominantly clear, offering unobstructed views of the Himalayan panorama. The crisp autumn air carries a faint golden hue, illuminating the rugged trails and barren cliffs. Rainfall is a rarity in this season, with the region basking in the dry tranquility characteristic of Dolpo’s semi-arid climate.
At lower altitudes, the interplay of light and shadow across terraced fields creates a dreamlike landscape, while the higher altitudes remain dominated by the stark grandeur of glacial moraine and sweeping ridges. As the trek progresses, the transition in weather becomes a metaphor for the spiritual journey, shifting from warmth and abundance to the sparse, unyielding beauty of the high Himalayas.
The diversity of weather conditions in Lower Dolpo demands thoughtful preparation. Layered clothing is essential to adapt to the rapid shifts in temperature as you ascend and descend. Breathable fabrics for daytime trekking, insulated jackets for higher altitudes, and a reliable sleeping bag rated for sub-zero temperatures ensure comfort during chilly nights.
Equally important is protection against the sun, as the thin air amplifies the sun’s intensity. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and wide-brimmed hats become indispensable companions under the cobalt skies. For the nights spent under starlit canopies, a warm cup of tea or local butter tea offers not just warmth but also a taste of Dolpo’s cherished traditions.
The weather in Lower Dolpo mirrors the soul of the land—wild, unpredictable, and awe-inspiring. Each shift in temperature and altitude brings a new perspective, a reminder of nature's vastness and humanity's place within it. The biting winds on the passes whisper stories of ancient trade routes, while the serene stillness of Phoksundo Lake reflects the timeless spirituality of this hidden kingdom.
In October, the Lower Dolpo Trek offers a harmonious blend of weather, temperature, and altitude, creating an experience that is as challenging as it is transformative. From the gentle warmth of the valleys to the icy serenity of the high passes, the journey invites you to embrace each moment, each element, as part of an unfolding narrative—one that remains etched in the heart long after the trek is complete.
The Lower Dolpo region, tucked into the remote folds of western Nepal, awakens with quiet grandeur in April and May. These months, straddling spring, present a harmonious blend of mild weather, blossoming landscapes, and crisp mountain air that beckon adventurers to explore its mystical trails.
The trek often begins in Juphal, situated at 2,285 meters (7,497 feet), where spring has laid its gentle touch. The days are warm and inviting, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). As you wander through terraced fields and quaint villages, the mornings are fresh and dewy, while evenings settle into a cooler ambiance, dipping to 7°C to 10°C (45°F to 50°F).
The lower regions come alive during these months, with wildflowers painting the trails and fruit trees blossoming in abundance. The air is invigorating, carrying the earthy aroma of freshly tilled soil and the soft hum of nature waking from its winter slumber.
As the trail ascends towards Phoksundo Lake at 3,611 meters (11,849 feet), the landscape transitions into alpine beauty. Here, daytime temperatures hover between 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), offering a gentle warmth under the spring sun. The lake’s pristine turquoise waters glisten, reflecting the snow-capped peaks that tower above.
Nights at this altitude bring a crisp coolness, with temperatures dipping to 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F). Trekkers often bundle up in warm layers, as the chill sets in alongside the breathtaking tranquility of the region. The skies remain clear, revealing constellations that seem almost close enough to touch.
The journey to the Numa La Pass (5,190 meters/17,028 feet) and Bagala La Pass (5,070 meters/16,630 feet) introduces trekkers to the stark beauty of the high Himalayas. In these lofty elevations, the air is thinner, and the temperature swings are more pronounced. Daytime highs linger between 2°C to 6°C (36°F to 43°F), with the sun providing welcome warmth as you ascend.
Nights and early mornings are considerably colder, with temperatures often plunging to -5°C to -8°C (23°F to 17°F). These passes can experience sudden weather changes, including light snow or brisk winds, though the spring season generally ensures stability and clear skies.
April and May breathe life into Lower Dolpo, making it one of the most enchanting times to visit. Snow from winter still dusts the high peaks, while the lower trails bloom with rhododendrons, wildflowers, and lush greenery. The weather is largely stable, with minimal rainfall, and the region’s semi-arid climate ensures pleasant trekking conditions.
The temperature gradients between day and night, as well as across altitudes, lend a sense of adventure to the trek. With every ascent, the weather shifts subtly, creating a rhythm that mirrors the journey’s transformative essence.
For trekkers, spring in Lower Dolpo offers an unforgettable tapestry of mild days, cool nights, and landscapes bathed in nature’s most vibrant hues.
Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (Flight)
Nepalgunj – 150 m / 492 ft – 50 minutes
Nepalgunj to Jhupal (Flight) to Dunai Dunai – 2850 m / 9350 ft – 4 hrs
Dunai to Tarakot Tarakot – 2543 m / 8343 ft – 6 hrs
Tarakot to Laini
Laini – 3160 m / 10367 ft – 6 hrs
Laini to Nawar Pani
Nawar Pani – 3545 m / 11630 ft – 5 hrs
Nawar Pani to Dho Tarap
Dho Tarap – 4090 m / 13418 ft – 7 hrs
Acclimatization Day
Dho Tarap – 4090 m / 13418 ft – 3 hrs
Dho Tarap to Numa La Base Camp
Numa La Base Camp – 4440 m / 14566 ft – 6 hrs
Numa La Base Camp to Pelung Tang
Pelung Tang – 4465 m / 14648 ft – 6 hrs
Pelung Tang to Dajok Tang
Dajok Tang – 4080 m / 13385 ft – 6 hrs
Dajok Tang to Ringmo
Ringmo – 3600 m / 11811 ft – 4 hrs
Ringmo to Phoksundo Lake
Phoksundo Lake – 3612 m / 11850 ft – 5 hrs
Phoksundo Lake to Shyanta
Shyanta – 2520 m / 8267 ft – 4 hrs
Shyanta to Jhupal
Jhupal – 2320 m / 7611 ft – 5 hrs
Jhupal to Nepalgunj (Flight) to Kathmandu (Flight)
Kathmandu – 1300 m / 4265 ft – 2 hrs
The best times to trek in Lower Dolpo are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Spring offers blooming wildflowers, lush greenery, and mild temperatures, while autumn provides clear skies, vibrant landscapes, and the most stable weather conditions.
Spring (March-May): Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F) at lower altitudes and 2°C to 6°C (36°F to 43°F) at higher elevations. Nights are cooler, with temperatures dropping to -5°C (23°F) in the high passes. Expect lush landscapes and pleasant trekking conditions.
Autumn (September-November): Daytime temperatures are slightly cooler, ranging from 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F) at lower altitudes and 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F) at higher altitudes. Nights can be colder, especially at higher elevations. Autumn offers crisp air and clear, panoramic mountain views.
The Lower Dolpo Trek is considered moderately to highly challenging due to its remote location, long walking days, and high-altitude passes like Numa La (5,190m) and Bagala La (5,070m). A good level of fitness, acclimatisation, and previous trekking experience is recommended.
The stunning Phoksundo Lake (3,611m) with its turquoise waters.
Crossing the high passes of Numa La and Bagala La.
The unique, arid landscapes of the Dolpo region.
Encounters with Tibetan-influenced culture, monasteries, and traditional villages.
Rare wildlife such as snow leopards, Himalayan blue sheep, and yaks.
Lower Dolpo lies in a restricted area, so you’ll need the following permits:
Restricted Area Permit (RAP): $20 per week (subject to government changes).
Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit: NPR 3,000 for foreign nationals.
A licensed guide and a group of at least two trekkers are mandatory for the RAP.
The trek typically takes 18 to 21 days, depending on your itinerary and pace. This duration includes time for acclimatisation, travel to and from Juphal, and exploring the region's cultural and natural landmarks.
Accommodation in Lower Dolpo is basic teahouses in some villages and camping in more remote areas. Teahouses provide simple meals and beds, but in remote sections, trekkers often rely on camping gear and prepared meals.
Essentials include:
Spring: Layers for mild days and cooler nights, rain gear (in case of pre-monsoon showers), and sun protection.
Autumn: Warm clothing for cold nights, a down jacket, sturdy trekking boots, and a high-quality sleeping bag rated for sub-zero temperatures.
Always carry a first aid kit, water purification tablets, and snacks.
Yes, altitude sickness is a potential concern as the trek involves high passes above 5,000 meters (16,404 feet). Acclimatisation days, staying hydrated, and ascending gradually are essential to minimize risks. Medications like Diamox can be used as a preventive measure.
In teahouses, you’ll find simple yet hearty meals such as dal bhat (lentil curry with rice), noodles, soups, and Tibetan bread. While trekking in more remote areas, your guide and porters will prepare meals, often a mix of local and camp-style food. Carry energy bars and snacks for high-energy requirements.
Both spring and autumn offer unique charms, making Lower Dolpo a truly unforgettable trekking destination!
Nepal , Restricted Area Trek
Nepal , Restricted Area Trek
Nepal , Restricted Area Trek
Nepal , Restricted Area Trek
Nepal , Restricted Area Trek
Nepal , Restricted Area Trek
Nepal , Restricted Area Trek
