Dunai is the district headquarters of Dolpa and the main administrative and logistical centre for both the Lower and Upper Dolpo treks, reached via a flight to Nepalgunj followed by a short onward STOL flight to the small airstrip at Juphal. As the entry point into Shey Phoksundo National Park, Dunai marks the beginning of what is widely regarded as one of Nepal's most remote and culturally distinct trekking regions, a landscape whose Tibetan Buddhist and Bon heritage sets it apart even from other far-flung corners of the country.

The town itself sits along the Thuli Bheri river, with government offices, basic shops, and a level of infrastructure that, while modest by the standards of Kathmandu or Pokhara, represents the most developed settlement trekkers will encounter for the remainder of their journey into Dolpo. Permits for the restricted areas further into the region are checked here, and Dunai serves as a natural point for final preparations before the trail becomes progressively more remote.

From Dunai, the standard route continues toward Ringmo and the turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake, Nepal's deepest lake, before either turning back for a Lower Dolpo itinerary or continuing much further into the restricted Upper Dolpo region toward Shey Gompa and the ancient Bon Kingdom. Dunai's relatively basic facilities are a clear signal of the genuine wilderness that lies ahead, and trekkers typically use this stop to confirm permits, arrange any additional camping support, and mentally prepare for the demanding days of walking still to come.

Weather at this elevation can change quickly, and a flexible itinerary with a buffer day or two is generally recommended for anyone travelling through this part of the route.

Local guides with specific knowledge of this stretch of trail add real value, both for navigation and for the cultural context they can offer along the way.

A gradual, well-paced ascent through this section remains the best defence against altitude-related discomfort further along the route.