Dunai - A heavenly corridor to Dolpo

Dunai - A heavenly corridor to Dolpo. 

1. Geographical Setting

• Dunai is located in the Dolpa district of western Nepal, nestled along the banks of the Thuli Bheri River. The town lies at an elevation of approximately 2,140 meters (7,020 feet) above sea level.
• Surrounded by towering peaks of the Himalayas, including the Dhaulagiri and Kanjiroba ranges, Dunai enjoys a stunning natural setting characterized by lush green valleys, terraced fields, and pristine alpine landscapes.

2. Cultural Diversity

• Dunai is home to people from various ethnic groups, including the Dolpo-pa, Tibetan, Magar, and Gurung communities. Each community contributes to the cultural tapestry of the region with its unique traditions, festivals, and religious practices.
• Visitors to Dunai can explore traditional villages such as Tarakot, Ringmo, and Dho Tarap, where they can interact with locals, visit ancient monasteries and chortens (Buddhist shrines), and witness traditional ceremonies and rituals.

3. Trekking Routes

• Dunai serves as a starting point for several trekking routes that lead into the Dolpo region, renowned for its rugged terrain, remote villages, and pristine natural beauty.
• The Upper Dolpo Trek is a challenging yet rewarding trek that takes trekkers through high mountain passes, deep valleys, and ancient Tibetan Buddhist settlements, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.
• The Lower Dolpo Trek is a less strenuous option, allowing trekkers to explore the lower valleys of Dolpo, including the beautiful Phoksundo Lake and the Shey Phoksundo National Park.
• Trekkers can also opt for the adventurous journey to Phoksundo Lake, trekking through pine forests, crossing suspension bridges, and camping beside the turquoise waters of Nepal's deepest lake.

4. Accommodation and Facilities

• Despite its remote location, Dunai offers basic accommodation options such as guesthouses, teahouses, and camping sites for trekkers and travelers.
• Visitors can find local eateries serving traditional Nepali cuisine, as well as shops selling essential supplies and trekking gear.
• The town also has basic medical facilities and communication services, although visitors should be prepared for limited amenities compared to more urban areas.

5. Natural Attractions

• Apart from being a starting point for treks, Dunai itself boasts natural attractions worth exploring. The Thuli Bheri River offers opportunities for fishing and leisurely walks along its banks.
• Surrounding hillsides are dotted with terraced fields, where locals cultivate crops such as barley, wheat, and buckwheat, providing a glimpse into traditional farming practices in the region

In essence, Dunai serves as more than just a logistical base for trekkers; it is a cultural crossroads, a gateway to adventure, and a destination in its own right, offering a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and Himalayan hospitality to those who venture into this remote corner of Nepal..

Permits & Regulations

Permits for Upper Dolpo are expensive and strictly enforced. You also need to purchase a permit for Lower Dolpo, which you pass through on your way to Upper Dolpo. On top of that, only 250 foreigners are permitted to enter Upper Dolpo each year.

• Lower Dolpo: $10 USD per week
• Upper Dolpo: $50 USD per day (10-day minimum)

There is also an Rs. 1000 entry fee to the Shey-Phoksundo National Park. As it’s mandatory to trek with a guide on an organised tour in Upper Dolpo, your tour operator will arrange all permits and these fees are generally included in the total cost of your trip.