Trip Overview
The Dolpo Circuit Trek in the central-west area of the country is one of the most remote and captivating adventures, famous among real thrill seekers for its wild and pristine landscape. The 18 days for the Dolpo Circuit Trekking Itinerary take you to a totally different landscape in a unique geographical region from those on the popular Everest Base Camp Trek, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, and the Langtang Valley Trek.
The trip to complete the Dolpo Circuit reaches the highest point at Numa La Pass (5,318 m). To the trans-Himalayan region, a part of the Tibetan Plateau hidden behind the majestic seventh-highest mountain in the world, Mount Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), get ready to lose yourself in the timeless Tibetan Buddhist culture. The hiking trail to the Dolpo Circuit follows the ancient trade routes once used by salt caravans.
While the traditional villages still untouched by modern development warm your heart and belly with their genuine hospitality and hearty menus, high altitude, dramatic canyons, rugged terrain, and remoteness act as challenging elements. Therefore, make sure you are both physically and mentally prepared for the journey and book your trip with professionals with several years of experience, such as Adventure Himalayan Travels and Treks.
The breathtaking mountain views from such places as Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Annapurna (8,091 m), Kanjirowa Himal, Crystal Mountain, and, on clear weather days, the distant sight of Manaslu (8,163 m) provide a deep sense of achievement. Our Dolpo Circuit Trek cost includes complimentary pickup, welcome dinner, and drop-off. I.e., the Dolpo Circuit Trekking cost is reasonable for arranging all the logistics. Book now for 2026 and 2027.
What to expect during the hike to conquer the Dolpo Circuit in Nepal?
The Dolpo Circuit Trek in Nepal offers an extraordinary adventure of exploring one of the most culturally and geographically unique parts of the country in the remote trans-Himalayan region. The trekking trail includes crossing high passes, stopping by charming villages amidst the pristine valleys, and taking in the serene landscapes guarded by high peaks and hills. Each step unfolds a raw and untouched side of Nepal.
Within the largest national park of the country, the Shey Phoksundo National Park, nature and culture beyond the scenery make the Dolpo Circuit both a natural and cultural treasure. However, it is a must that you are ready to face the limited infrastructure, occasional steep ascents and descents, rugged terrain, and unpredictable weather. Rather, a perfect camping and trekking destination, long days of walking demand good physical fitness.
Do Dolpo differ from Annapurna and Everest?
Yes, in comparison to popular Annapurna and Everest trekking routes such as the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, the Everest Base Camp Trek, and the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, the Dolpo trekking region, including the Dolpo Circuit Trekking route, is relatively less traversed. The trail is isolated miles away from modernization, and many sections till this day feature only a few teahouses and provide just the perfect places for camping.
The limited connectivity and almost zero crowds, even during spring and autumn, considered the peak high-altitude trekking and climbing seasons in Nepal, mean there is no intervention of the outside world between you and unspoiled nature. I.e., Dolpo Circuit Hiking is an ideal journey for adventurers seeking solitude and an intimate experience of the true Himalayan adventure.
How unique is the culture in Dolpo?
While the lower Dolpo region is inhabited largely by the indigenous group of Magar, Gurung, and Hindu Hill people, including Thakuri, the royal family caste of Nepal, the high-altitude Himalayan area is home to Dolpo-Pa. You can witness their life intertwined with ancient Bon Po and Buddhist culture, creating a living museum of Tibetan Buddhism for you to close your eyes, breathe in the serene air, and let your soul free.
Further, the Dolpo Region features over 130 gompas (monasteries), several dating back centuries. To pay a visit, pass through traditional villages like Ringmo, Dho Tarap, and Lingdo, and witness the authentic and nomadic lifestyle. Vibrant prayer flags, Mani walls, and Gompas with intricate painting and carving add much to the scenery as well as spiritual dimensions, especially when you meditate and watch life thrive in high pastures.
Which of the rare wildlife is to be anticipated in Dolpo?
The Circuit Trek to Dolpo takes place inside the Shey Phoksundo National Park. The biggest national park in Nepal, spread over an area of 3,555 square kilometers, was established in the year 1984 for preserving a unique trans-Himalayan ecosystem with a wide range of flora and fauna; it is a wildlife paradise. The park hosts around 29 species of mammals, over 200 species of birds, 6 species of reptiles and mammals, and around 29 species of fish.
In plants, you can find over 1,500 species of flowering plants. To sum it up, the chances of wildlife sightseeing on the Dolpo Trek are high. On your lucky day, you can access the rare wildlife like Himalayan tahr, golden eagles, and blue sheep, and if you are extremely lucky, you may also observe the majestic snow leopards at high altitude. Yak and horse caravans transporting goods are common.
Can you see Mount Everest during the Dolpo Circuit Trek?
No, since the highest mountain range, the top of the world, Mount Everest (8,848.86 m), lies in the eastern part of the country, and the Dolpo in the northwestern part, Mount Everest is not visible during the Dolpo Circuit Trek. Instead, trekkers are exposed to the magnificent parade of several sky-towering mountain ranges like Kanjiroba Himal, Crystal Mountain, Putha Hiunchuli, and Churen Chuli, including Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Annapurna.
Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Annapurna are all 8,000 m above sea level, though they are occasionally visible mostly from high ridges, above the barren cliffs, deep valleys, and the deepest lake in Nepal, Phoksundo Lake; it adds to the sense of achievement. With raw wilderness views, serene glaciers, and mystical Himalayan peaks, the trip to the Dolpo Circuit is worth a journey. Reserve your seat now for 2026 and 2027.
Are the mountain passes in Dolpo challenging?
Yes. The Dolpo Circuit Trekking itinerary of 18 days from Adventure Himalayan Travels and Treks includes crossing two high mountains, which are also the most rewarding and challenging phases of the Dolpo Circuit Hiking. Numa La Pass (5,318 m) and Baga La Pass (5,190 m) are both 5,000 m above sea level; high altitude, remoteness, and unpredictable weather make them both physically and mentally demanding.
It also includes steep and long ascents/descents, rocky trails, and sometimes can be icy and snowy. High altitude can further trigger altitude sickness, also called acute mountain sickness (AMS), which, if not taken care of in time, can lead to fatal conditions like HAPE or HACE; therefore, it is a must that you acclimate properly before attempting further altitude from a low level.
The Best Dolpo Circuit Trekking Itinerary and Cost for 2026 and 2027
The Dolpo Circuit Trek itinerary of 18 days begins with your arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal. The second day is a UNESCO World Heritage Sites sightseeing and preparation day when the guide from Adventure Travels and Treks checks all trekking gear and equipment. The third day is when the trip officially begins with a mountain flight to Nepalgunj from Kathmandu and then to Jupal.
Jupal is the trek starting point, and thereafter, trekkers on the Dolpo Circuit Hiking Trail gradually progress and stop by the typical mountain villages like Dunai, Lingdo, Laina Odar, Nawarpani, Sisaul, and Dho Tarap, and then Numla Base Camp for camping. From Numla Base Camp, you reach Danigar and Yak Kharka each day, crossing the Numa La Pass and Baga La Pass.
Thereafter, the Dolpo Circuit Trekking Itinerary of 18 days arrives at Phoksundo Lake/Ringmo village from Yak Kharka. An acclimatization day begins retracing the route to return to Kathmandu. Since it offers a balanced hike, acclimatization, exploration, and rest, it is the best route for the years 2026 and 2027. Or, contact us and customize as per your liking and requirements.
While the exact Dolpo Circuit Trip cost of logistics may vary based on customization made, it provides you coverage for all the essential trekking logistics, including special permits, necessary guides to the restricted areas, meals, and lodging, so you get to fully focus on the journey. Further, we are also offering group and early bird booking discounts, including for the years 2026 and 2027. Book now and get an exclusive discount.
