Exploring Rara Lake via Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve & Lower Dolpo – 37 Days
Embark on an epic journey through the heart of Nepal with the Beni to Rara Lake Trek, a 37-day adventure that promises unforgettable experiences and breathtaking vistas.
The Trekking Route
This challenging trek spans from Beni to Rara Lake, leading you through the rugged terrain of the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve and the pristine landscapes of Lower Dolpo. Prepare yourself mentally and physically, for this trek demands patience, endurance, and a spirit of adventure.
Exploring Dolpo and Beyond
The trek unfolds in two parts: first, an exploration of the Dolpo region from Beni, followed by a captivating journey to Rara Lake from Jumla. Traverse through the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, Nepal’s sole hunting reserve, renowned for its diverse flora and fauna. Wander through Jaljala, witness the historic sites of the people’s war, and delve into the enchanting landscapes of Sahatara and Dho-Tarap. Engage with the locals, immerse yourself in their culture, and capture moments of serenity amidst the towering peaks and crystal-clear lakes.
A Journey to Remember
Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara, and then onwards to Beni, the starting point of your Dolpo adventure. Trek through lush rhododendron forests, traverse valleys, and ford rivers as you make your way to the captivating landscapes of the Dolpo region. Marvel at the sight of Gurja Himal, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri Himal, while encountering rare wildlife, including the elusive snow leopard and Himalayan blue sheep.
Cultural Encounters
Discover the rich cultural tapestry of Dolpo, where ancient traditions and rituals thrive in harmony with the land. Encounter the Tibetan Bonpo culture, steeped in centuries of tradition and spirituality. Engage with locals, share stories, and gain insight into their way of life amidst the backdrop of majestic mountains and pristine lakes.
Unforgettable Highlights
From the tranquil shores of Shey Phoksundo Lake to the expansive vistas of Rara Lake, every step of the journey offers new wonders to behold. Encounter rare species of flora and fauna, immerse yourself in local culture, and witness the majestic beauty of Nepal’s natural landscape.
Embrace the Adventure
While the Beni to Rara Lake Trek may test your limits, the rewards are beyond measure. So, heed the call of adventure, pack your bags, and embark on a journey of a lifetime. Don’t wait any longer—let the mountains beckon you to discover the wonders of Nepal.
Key Highlights:
- Encounter diverse flora and fauna in the wild
- Immerse yourself in local culture and lifestyle
- Explore Shey Phoksundo Lake, Rara Lake, and Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve
- Discover the ancient Bonpo culture of Dolpo
- Marvel at the majestic peaks of Dhaulagiri, Himchuli, and Annapurna
Exploring Dhorpatan: A Guide to Timing Your Visit
What is the best time to visit Dhorpatan?
No matter the season, Dhorpatan offers a tapestry of natural wonders to behold. During the monsoon, witness the picturesque sight of horses grazing amidst the vibrant valley. In autumn, ascend the hills for breathtaking views of the Dhaulagiri, Gurja, and Churen mountains. Winter blankets the beautiful fields with snow, enhancing the allure of this serene landscape.
Where to stay in Dhorpatan?
A variety of homestays and hotels dot the villages of Dhorpatan, offering visitors a blend of organic cuisine, warm hospitality, and cozy accommodations. From the Blue Sheep Hotel to the Syaubari Thakali Kitchen and Community Hotel, options abound for a comfortable stay. During peak tourist seasons, it’s advisable to make reservations in advance to secure your preferred lodging.
How to get to Dhorpatan?
Dhorpatan is easily accessible from major cities such as Kathmandu and Pokhara. From Pokhara, follow the Mid-Hill Highway to Burtibang, a journey of approximately five hours by bus, car, or bike. Once in Burtibang, Dhorpatan lies just 30 km away. Traverse the unpaved roads for about two hours, either by SUV, to reach your destination amidst nature’s embrace.
Trek Itinerary: Explore the Himalayas
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu 🕑 30 mins Max Altitude: 1,350 m
Upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, our representative from Altitude Adventures (A2) will greet you and transfer you to a 3-star hotel. You’ll have free time to relax and discuss the trek in detail.
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in KTM
Day 2: Scenic Flight to Pokhara 🕑 30 mins flight Max Altitude: 827 m
After breakfast, enjoy a scenic flight to Pokhara, known as the “city of Lake paradise.” Spend the day exploring Pokhara at your leisure.
Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Day 3: Drive to Tatopani via Beni 🕑 5-6 hrs Max Altitude: 900 m
Embark on a picturesque drive to Tatopani via Beni. Enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre mountains. Relax at the hot springs of Tatopani.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tea house/ lodges/ guest house
Day 4: Trek to Ratodhunga 🕑 5 hrs Max Altitude: 1,320 m
Cross the bridge of Myagdi Khola and trek through villages and forests inhabited by the Magar and Chhetri communities.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp/ local lodges
Day 5: Trek to Muna 🕑 6-7 hrs Max Altitude: 1,920 m
Pass through Takum and Sibang villages before ascending to Mattim and reaching Muna.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp/ local lodges
Day 6: Trek to Jaljala 🕑 5-6 hrs Max Altitude: 2,140 m
Trek through forests to Jaljala La, offering views of Dhaulagiri and Mana Pathi peaks.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp
Day 7: Trek to Dhorpatan via Gurjakot 🕑 6-7 hrs Max Altitude: 3,070 m
Trek to Dhorpatan via Gurjakot, passing through forests and Chortens symbolic of Tibetan Buddhism.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp
Day 8: Trek to Phagune Pass 🕑 6-7 hrs Max Altitude: 4,060 m
Ascend to Phagune Pass, offering panoramic views of the Kanjiroba Massif.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp
Day 9: Trek to Pelma 🕑 6-7 hrs Max Altitude: 2,400 m
Descend through villages and terraced fields to Pelma.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp
Day 10: Trek to Dhule 🕑 5-6 hrs Max Altitude: 3,300 m
Trek to Dhule via Yamakhar and Gorba Khola, passing through small villages.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp
Day 11: Trek to Seng Khola 🕑 5-6 hrs Max Altitude: 3,820 m
Trek to Seng Khola, passing through dense forests and alpine grasslands.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp
Day 12: Trek to Sahartara 🕑 7-8 hrs Max Altitude: 2,730 m
Trek to Sahartara, a small village surrounded by terraced fields and hot springs.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp
Day 13: Acclimatization and Free Day Max Altitude: 2,730 m
Spend the day relaxing and bathing in the hot springs of Sahartara.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp
Day 14: Trek to Laini 🕑 6-7 hrs Max Altitude: 3,370 m
Trek through a green valley to Laini, encountering musk deer along the way.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp
Day 15: Trek to Pibke Cave 🕑 6-7 hrs Max Altitude: 3,850 m
Trek to Pibke Cave through narrow and adventurous trails.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp
Day 16: Trek to Dho Tarap 🕑 7-8 hrs Max Altitude: 4,080 m
Trek through deep gorges and rocky cliffs to Dho Tarap.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp
Day 17: Acclimatization and Explore Max Altitude: 4,080 m
Explore Dho Tarap and its cultural landmarks.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp
Day 18: Trek to Numala Base Camp 🕑 4-5 hrs Max Altitude: 4,440 m
Trek to Numala Base Camp for stunning views of the Tibetan mountains.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp
Day 19: Trek to Danighar via Numala Pass 🕑 7-8 hrs Max Altitude: 5,360 m
Cross Numala Pass and descend to Danighar.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp
Day 20: Trek to Yak Kharka via Bagala Pass 🕑 6 hrs Max Altitude: 5,070 m
Trek to Yak Kharka via Bagala Pass for breathtaking views of the Kanjiroba Massif.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp
Day 21: Trek to Phoksundo Lake via Ringmo Village 🕑 4-5 hrs Max Altitude: 3,660 m
Trek to Phoksundo Lake via Ringmo Village, experiencing the unique culture of the region.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp
Day 22: Exploration around Phoksundo Lake Max Altitude: 3,600 m
Explore the scenic beauty and cultural landmarks around Phoksundo Lake.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp
Day 23: Trek to Pungmo 🕑 6-7 hrs Max Altitude: 3,500 m
Trek to Pungmo through picturesque landscapes.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp
Day 24: Trek to Kagmara High Camp 🕑 5-6 hrs Max Altitude: 4,800 m
Trek to Kagmara High Camp for breathtaking views.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp
Day 25: Trek to Kagmara Phedi 🕑 4-5 hrs Max Altitude: 2,900 m
Trek to Kagmara Phedi through adventurous trails.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp
Day 26: Trek to Toijum 🕑 6-7 hrs Max Altitude: 2,920 m
Trek to Toijum through scenic landscapes.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp
Day 27: Trek to Chaurikot 🕑 5-6 hrs Max Altitude: 3,060 m
Trek to Chaurikot through forested trails.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp
Day 28: Trek to Chotra 🕑 5-6 hrs Max Altitude: 3,380 m
Trek to Chotra through villages and forests.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp
Day 29: Trek to Gothichaur 🕑 6-7 hrs Max Altitude: 2,650 m
Trek to Gothichaur through cultural villages.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp
Day 30: Trek to Jumla 🕑 5-6 hrs Max Altitude: 2,540 m
Trek to Jumla through scenic landscapes.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tea house/ lodges/ homestays/ tented camp
Day 31: Trek to Khali Gaon 🕑 5-6 hrs Max Altitude: 3,685 m
Trek to Khali Gaon through picturesque villages.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tea house/ lodges/ homestays/ tented camp
Day 32: Trek to Bulbule 🕑 6-7 hrs Max Altitude: 3,182 m
Trek to Bulbule through pine and rhododendron forests.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp/ local lodges
Day 33: Trek to Rara via Ghurchi Lagna Pass 🕑 8-9 hrs Max Altitude: 3,480 m
Trek to Rara via Ghurchi Lagna Pass for stunning views.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp
Day 34: Acclimatization and Explore Rara Lake Max Altitude: 3,010 m
Explore the beauty of Rara Lake and its surroundings.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp
Day 35: Trek to Talcha 🕑 4-5 hrs Max Altitude: 2,700 m
Trek to Talcha through the jungle and National Park.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Tented camp/ local lodges/ tea house
Day 36: Flight from Talcha-Nepalgunj-Kathmandu 🕑 1 & 1/2 hrs Max Altitude: 1,350 m
Fly from Talcha to Kathmandu with a scenic journey.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner Accommodation: 3-star hotel in KTM
Day 37: Departure Transfer 🕑 30 mins
Transfer to the airport for departure or further travels.
Meals: Breakfast
Enjoy your journey and consider returning to Nepal for more adventures in the future!
INCLUDES
- All Arrival/Departure transfers as per itinerary
- Accommodation with daily breakfast in Kathmandu as per itinerary
- Guided Sightseeing with all applicable entrance fees as per itinerary in Kathmandu
- Accommodation with breakfast in Pokhara as per itinerary
- All Guesthouse, Lodge/Tented Accommodation during the Trek
- All meals (Breakfast, Lunches & Dinner with Tea/Coffee) During the Trek
- All Private transfers as per itinerary
- Domestic (Kathmandu –Pokhara–& Talcha- Nepalgunj – Kathmandu) Airfare and taxes as per itinerary
- An Experienced GOVT licensed Trekking Guide & required No. of Sherpa Porters & Crew
- All wages, allowances, insurance, medical and equipment for supporting crew members.
- She Phoksundo National Park Fees
- Rara National Park Fees
- Lower Dolpo Special permits
- DhorPatan Special Permits
- TIMS fees & Local Province (Municipality/Village) Fees
- Trekking & Camping / Kitchen Equipment as per itinerary/necessary
- A comprehensive medical kit
- Welcome/Farewell Dinner
- All GOVT local taxes & official expenses
EXCLUDES
- Nepal Entry Visa Fees (USD 25/40/100 – 15/30/100 Days Cash On arrivals)
- International Airfare to/from Kathmandu & Departure Taxes
- Excess baggage (cargo) charges
- Any charges incurred due to the changing itinerary (Early arrival from the trek, late departure, cancellation of the trek in the middle etc)
- Meals (Lunches & Dinner) in the city
- Portable Altitudes Chamber (PAC) for your safety measures
- Personal expenses such as phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, hot shower, etc.
- Tipping/gratitude
- Any extra cost arising from bad weather, unfavorable circumstances (road blockage, landslide, flight delay etc)
- Rescue and evacuations
- Personal Trekking/Climbing Equipment
- Your Travel Insurance
- Anything not mentioned in the includes section
