LOWER DOLPO CIRCUIT WILDERNESS TREK – 15 DAYS
$2490
per person
xSacred Turquoise Shey Phoksundo Lake | Numa La (5,190m) & Baga La (5,070m) Passes | Ancient Bon & Tibetan Culture
| Trip Duration: | 14 Nights / 15 Days | Trek Grading: | Challenging / Remote Wilderness |
| Primary Destination: | Lower Dolpo & Shey Phoksundo National Park | Highest Altitude: | 5,190 m / 17,028 ft (Numa La Pass) |
| Starting Point: | Kathmandu (Flight to Nepalgunj & Juphal) | Ending Point: | Kathmandu (Flight from Juphal & Nepalgunj) |
| High Mountain Passes: | Numa La Pass (5,190m) & Baga La Pass (5,070m) | Daily Walking Average: | 5 to 7 Hours / Day |
| Domestic Flights: | Kathmandu – Nepalgunj – Juphal (Return Included) | Accommodation: | Boutique Hotels & High-Quality Tented Camps |
| Included Meal Plan: | Full Board on Trek (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) | Special Permits: | Lower Dolpo RAP, Shey Phoksundo NP & TIMS |
| Ground Transportation: | Private Vehicle in Kathmandu & Nepalgunj | Best Seasons: | Spring (Mar–May) & Autumn (Sep–Nov) |
Tour Overview
Tucked behind the soaring crests of the Dhaulagiri and Kanjiroba massifs in western Nepal lies Dolpo—one of the last authentic frontiers of ancient Tibetan civilization on earth. The Lower Dolpo Circuit Wilderness Trek is a profound 15-day high-altitude journey into a remote rain-shadow sanctuary of wind-carved canyons, centuries-old Bon Po and Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, and high-altitude trans-Himalayan trading routes. Tracing ancient yak trails where bell-tinkling caravans still haul rock salt, barley, and wool between Nepal and Tibet, this expedition immerses discerning adventurers in an untouched living museum of Himalayan ethnography and staggering geological beauty.
The expedition’s crowning geographic jewel is the legendary Shey Phoksundo Lake (3,600m), an alpine tarn celebrated for its surreal, deep aquamarine and turquoise hues framed by vertical limestone crags and snow-covered spires. Trekkers conquer two thrilling glaciated passes—Numa La (5,190m) and Baga La (5,070m)—rewarded by jaw-dropping panoramas of the Dhaulagiri range and the Tibetan plateau. Curated under The Regal Retreat’s premier expedition standards, this journey features round-trip domestic flights (Kathmandu–Nepalgunj–Juphal), dedicated wilderness mountain chefs serving hot, wholesome meals, insulated all-weather mountain tents, comprehensive high-altitude medical kits with pulse oximeters, and experienced local Sherpa guides.
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Each tour package showed is for the general information as all the packages are highly customizable according to our valued guests
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN YOUR EXPERIENCE
- • Round-Trip Domestic Flights: All scheduled domestic flights: Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, Nepalgunj to Juphal, Juphal to Nepalgunj, and Nepalgunj to Kathmandu, including airline fuel surcharges and passenger airport taxes.
- • Private Ground Transfers: All private airport transfers in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj in private air-conditioned vehicles (Sedan / SUV / HiAce according to group size).
- • Boutique Hotel Accommodation: 01 Night at 4-Star boutique hotel in Nepalgunj (e.g., Soaltee Westend Premier) and 02 Nights at 4-Star boutique hotel in Kathmandu (twin/double sharing basis with daily breakfast).
- • Wilderness Camping & Lodge Accommodation: 12 Nights high-altitude wilderness tented camp accommodation and mountain lodges during the trek, including spacious 4-season all-weather sleeping tents, foam mattresses, dining tent, kitchen tent, and toilet tent.
- • Full Board Meals on Trek: All wholesome, nutritious meals during the trek: 14 Breakfasts, 14 Lunches, and 14 Dinners prepared freshly by our trained expedition cook, accompanied by unlimited boiled drinking water, morning coffee, and Himalayan herbal teas.
- • Professional Expedition Crew: Highly experienced, licensed English-speaking mountain trekking guide (wilderness first aid certified), professional camp cook, kitchen assistants, and Sherpa baggage porters (1 porter for every 2 trekkers; carries up to 20 kg).
- • Crew Salaries & Logistics: Full insurance, equipment, high-altitude gear, domestic flights, accommodation, food, and fair daily wages for all guides, cooks, and porters.
- • All Mandatory Permits & Fees: Special Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit (RAP - USD $20/week), Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit, Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card, and local municipality tourism fees.
- • Medical & Safety Equipment: Comprehensive wilderness first aid medical kit, portable pulse oximeter for daily blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) and heart-rate monitoring, and emergency satellite communication protocols.
- • Taxes & Service Charges: All applicable Nepal Government taxes, VAT, municipal fees, and official company service charges.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED
- • International Airfare: International flight tickets to and from Kathmandu (TIA), Nepal.
- • Nepal Entry Visa: Visa fees payable upon arrival at Kathmandu airport (USD $30 for 15 Days / USD $50 for 30 Days).
- • Travel & Medical Insurance: Mandatory travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking up to 5,500m, acute mountain sickness (AMS), emergency helicopter evacuation, and medical hospitalization.
- • Personal Expenses: Bar bills, alcoholic beverages, bottled mineral water, soft drinks, laundry, telephone calls, hot showers, and electronic device charging fees at mountain teahouses.
- • Single Supplement: Surcharge for guaranteed single room occupancy in Kathmandu/Nepalgunj boutique hotels and private single tent during the trek (USD $380).
- • Tipping & Gratuities: Customary gratuities for trekking guides, camp cooks, kitchen staff, porters, and transport drivers (approx. 10–15% of tour cost pooled among crew).
- • Unforeseen Delay Expenses: Extra hotel accommodation, meals, or chartered flights resulting from adverse weather conditions, flight delays in Nepalgunj or Juphal, roadblocks, landslides, or political unrest.
Tour Plan
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Day 01: Fly from Kathmandu (1,340m) to Nepalgunj (150m) – The Gateway to Western Nepal
Flight Duration: ~50 Mins | Elevation: 150 m / 492 ft | Meals: Lunch, Dinner Included | Accommodation: 4-Star Boutique Hotel (Nepalgunj)
Your remote Himalayan expedition begins with a private vehicle transfer from your Kathmandu hotel to Tribhuvan International Airport. Board a scenic 50-minute flight heading west toward Nepalgunj, situated in the fertile lowlands of the Terai. Looking out your window, watch the topography dramatically shift from Kathmandu's terraced green middle hills to the sweeping flat agricultural plains bordering India. Upon arrival at Nepalgunj Airport, our representative receives you and transfers you to your boutique hotel (e.g. Hotel Soaltee Westend Premier or Siddhartha Hotel Waterpark). Nepalgunj serves as the essential logistical staging hub for flights into Dolpo. In the late afternoon, enjoy an unhurried stroll through the vibrant local bazaars, sample rich regional cuisine, and meet your expedition leader for a comprehensive gear check and route orientation.
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Day 02: Scenic Mountain Flight from Nepalgunj (150m) to Juphal (2,475m) & Trek to Dunai (2,140m)
Flight Duration: ~40 Mins | Walking Duration: ~3 Hours (~10 km) | Elevation: 2,140 m / 7,021 ft | Meals: B, L, D | Accommodation: Mountain Camp / Lodge
An early wake-up call and transfer to Nepalgunj airport brings us to our scheduled STOL (Short Takeoff and Landing) mountain flight into Juphal. The 40-minute flight is an unforgettable spectacle as the twin-otter aircraft glides over lush river valleys and soaring glaciated ridges into the rugged mountain runway of Juphal Airport (2,475m). Step off the plane into the crisp, thin Himalayan air and meet your Sherpa trekking crew, kitchen team, and baggage porters. After organizing equipment, we embark on our inaugural walk. The trail descends gently through terraced wheat and barley fields, passing traditional stone hamlets before tracing the turquoise torrents of the Bheri River. In approximately 3 hours of leisurely walking, we cross a sturdy suspension bridge to reach Dunai (2,140m), the administrative headquarters of Dolpa district. Settle into our comfortable riverside camp and enjoy hot tea and freshly prepared dinner.
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Day 03: Trek from Dunai (2,140m) to Tarakot (2,540m) – The Historic Fortress Town
Walking Duration: ~5–6 Hours (~14 km) | Elevation: 2,540 m / 8,333 ft | Meals: B, L, D | Accommodation: Wilderness Tented Camp
Following a hearty hot breakfast prepared by our camp chef, we set out east along the southern bank of the Bheri River. The trail winds through a scenic gorge framed by deep pine forests and dramatic canyon walls. Passing the small settlement of Byasgad, we cross suspension bridges and walk along terraced hillsides cultivated with millet, buckwheat, and corn. As we approach the confluence of the Bheri and Tarap Chu rivers, we climb toward the ancient fortress town of Tarakot (2,540m). Historically known as 'Dzong' (fortress), Tarakot was once the capital of the ancient kingdom of Tichurong and an important fortified trading station collecting tolls on trans-Himalayan caravans. Explore the historic village and visit the nearby Sandul Gompa, situated on a high spur overlooking the river. We pitch our tents on scenic grassy grounds near the village.
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Day 04: Trek from Tarakot (2,540m) to Laini / Lamachaur (3,160m) along the Tarap Chu Canyon
Walking Duration: ~6–7 Hours (~15 km) | Elevation: 3,160 m / 10,367 ft | Meals: B, L, D | Accommodation: Wilderness Tented Camp
Today we leave the Bheri valley and enter the wild, untamed gorge of the Tarap Chu River. The path heads north, following the rushing river upstream along narrow cliffside contours. We traverse enchanting cedar, juniper, and birch woods, crossing several suspension bridges back and forth across the torrent. The gorge narrows significantly into vertical limestone canyon walls that soar hundreds of meters directly into the sky. Along the way, you will frequently witness yak and mule caravans laden with goods, their brass bells echoing off the rock faces. After a steep, scenic ascent through high canyon walls, the valley momentarily broadens at Laini (Lamachaur, 3,160m). We set up our wilderness camp in a sheltered clearing surrounded by sheer crags, enjoying hot soup and a restorative campfire meal.
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Day 05: Trek from Laini (3,160m) to Nawarpani / Toltol (3,545m) – Through Narrow Gorges
Walking Duration: ~5–6 Hours (~13 km) | Elevation: 3,545 m / 11,630 ft | Meals: B, L, D | Accommodation: Wilderness Tented Camp
Day 5 is one of the most dramatically scenic gorge-walking days of the entire trek. The trail climbs sharply out of Laini onto paths blasted into sheer rock cliffs. At times, the river canyon becomes so narrow that vertical rock walls nearly block the daylight, creating an exhilarating canyoneering ambiance. We cross the Chyugur Khola over wooden and cantilever bridges, gingerly stepping across stone stairways built directly against overhanging cliffs. Keep your eyes sharp along the crags for agile herds of Himalayan blue sheep (bharal) and high-altitude raptors like lammergeiers and golden eagles. In the afternoon, the canyon begins to open up into more gentle alpine meadows. We arrive at Nawarpani (Toltol, 3,545m), a picturesque riverside campsite, where our expedition crew welcomes you with warm towels and steaming Himalayan ginger tea.
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Day 06: Trek from Nawarpani (3,545m) to Dho Tarap (3,944m) – Entering the Tibetan Cultural Heart
Walking Duration: ~6–7 Hours (~14 km) | Elevation: 3,944 m / 12,939 ft | Meals: B, L, D | Accommodation: Wilderness Tented Camp
A gradual, steady morning climb takes us through the final narrow stretch of the Tarap Chu gorge. Suddenly, the enclosed rocky defiles open out into the vast, sun-drenched plateau of the Tarap Valley. Here the arid, wind-swept rain-shadow terrain mirrors the high plateaus of western Tibet. We pass through Kamattarka at the confluence of the Tarap Chu and Mirubabane Khola, passing traditional carved mani walls and whitewashed chortens. Continuing through open willow pastures and terraced barley fields, we arrive at the remarkable village of Dho Tarap (3,944m). Dho Tarap is celebrated as one of the highest permanently inhabited human settlements in the world. The village features dense clusters of flat-roofed stone houses, prayer flags fluttering in the mountain breeze, and resident Dolpo-pa people dressed in traditional woolen chubas and turquoise jewelry. Camp is pitched in the expansive meadows overlooking the ancient village.
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Day 07: Acclimatization & Cultural Exploration Day in Dho Tarap (3,944m)
Exploration Duration: ~3–4 Hours | Max Elevation: ~4,200 m | Meals: B, L, D | Accommodation: Wilderness Tented Camp
Today is an indispensable acclimatization day designed to allow your physiology to adapt comfortably to the 4,000-meter altitude threshold before attempting the high passes. Dho Tarap is culturally unique as a harmonious sanctuary for both Tibetan Buddhism (Nyingma and Chaiba sects) and the pre-Buddhist Bon religion. In the morning, accompanied by our cultural guide, we visit Ribo Bumpa Gompa—an extraordinary monastery dating back over 800 years—and explore its sacred Chorten enshrining relics. We also hike to Drakmar Dewa Gompa and stroll through the village lanes to observe daily agrarian life, weaving, and yak husbandry. In the afternoon, rest, hydrate thoroughly, and participate in our daily medical wellness check.
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Day 08: Trek from Dho Tarap (3,944m) to Numa La Base Camp (4,440m) via Tokyu Village
Walking Duration: ~5–6 Hours (~12 km) | Elevation: 4,440 m / 14,566 ft | Meals: B, L, D | Accommodation: Alpine Tented Camp
Rejuvenated from our rest day, we head northwest along the upper reaches of the Tarap Valley. The trail gently ascends across open, grassy river flats dotted with yak herds and nomad encampments. We reach Tokyu village (4,200m), an enchanting settlement of stone-walled houses featuring a monastery housing an exquisite statue of the Maitreya (Future Buddha). Beyond Tokyu, we leave all human settlements behind and venture into pristine alpine wilderness. The valley narrows as we turn westward toward the base of the high pass. The vegetation thins into sparse alpine tundra and lichen-crusted boulders. We establish our high-altitude camp at Numa La Base Camp (4,440m) at the foot of the pass. Our kitchen crew prepares a carb-rich, hot dinner to fuel our pre-dawn ascent, and we retire early inside our sub-zero rated sleeping bags.
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Day 09: Cross Numa La Pass (5,190m) & Descend to Pelung Tang / Gyambo (4,250m)
Walking Duration: ~7–8 Hours (~15 km) | Elevation: 5,190 m / 17,028 ft (Pass) | Meals: B, L, D | Accommodation: Alpine Tented Camp
The most physically demanding and exhilarating highlight of our expedition! We awake before dawn at 4:30 AM, drink hot lemon tea, and begin our climb under a brilliant star-filled sky. The trail winds steeply up switchbacks over loose scree, moraine ridges, and patches of seasonal snow. Maintaining a steady, deliberate cadence, we reach the summit crest of Numa La Pass (5,190m / 17,028ft) mid-morning. Adorned with colorful prayer flags snapping in the brisk wind, the pass rewards us with a spellbinding 360-degree panorama: the massive glaciated north wall of Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Norbung Kang, and the undulating desert peaks of the Tibetan borderland. After celebratory photos and soaking in the majestic silence of the high Himalayas, we begin a steep, careful descent into the Goyang valley, arriving at the serene grazing pasture of Pelung Tang (Gyambo, 4,250m) for a well-earned rest in our heated dining tent.
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Day 10: Cross Baga La Pass (5,070m) & Trek to Temche / Dajok Tang (3,995m)
Walking Duration: ~6–7 Hours (~13 km) | Elevation: 5,070 m / 16,633 ft (Pass) | Meals: B, L, D | Accommodation: Alpine Tented Camp
Following our triumph on Numa La, today we conquer our second colossal Himalayan crossing: the Baga La Pass (5,070m). After breakfast, the trail crosses a glacial stream and ascends steadily across rocky lateral moraines. The climb is gradual at first before steepening into rocky switchbacks. Reaching the prayer-flag strung saddle of Baga La (5,070m), the vistas are nothing short of breathtaking—the glaciated summits of the Kanjiroba massif (6,883m) dominate the western skyline with razor-sharp snow ridges and hanging glaciers. Looking down, deep valleys carved by ancient glaciers unfold beneath us. We begin our descent through a dramatic ravine, navigating scree slopes that give way to alpine pastures dotted with glacial streams. We establish our camp at Temche (Dajok Tang, 3,995m), surrounded by towering mountain walls and cascading alpine waterfalls.
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Day 11: Trek from Temche (3,995m) to Ringmo Gaun (3,641m) – Gateway to Phoksundo
Walking Duration: ~4–5 Hours (~10 km) | Elevation: 3,641 m / 11,945 ft | Meals: B, L, D | Accommodation: Wilderness Tented Camp
Today's walk is a delightful descent that transitions us back below the tree line. Exiting the rugged high pass zone, the trail winds down through lush alpine forests of blue pine, silver birch, juniper, and fragrant rhododendron. The air becomes noticeably richer in oxygen and filled with the scents of coniferous woodland. We cross crystal-clear mountain torrents on rustic wooden bridges and pass through fertile summer yak grazing pastures. As we round a scenic ridge, the first breathtaking glimpse of deep turquoise blue heralds our approach to the sacred waters of Shey Phoksundo Lake. We arrive at Ringmo Gaun (3,641m), an ancient Bon Po settlement featuring intricate chortens, carved prayer walls, and traditional wood-and-stone architecture. We pitch our camp on a scenic plateau near the village, anticipating a full day of lakeside exploration.
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Day 12: Full-Day Exploration of Sacred Shey Phoksundo Lake (3,600m) & Bon Monasteries
Exploration Duration: ~4–5 Hours | Elevation: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft | Meals: B, L, D | Accommodation: Wilderness Tented Camp
A day of pure wonder at one of the world's most breathtaking natural alpine sanctuaries. Shey Phoksundo Lake is an oligotrophic glacial lake renowned for its impossible aquamarine and turquoise colors, plunging over 145 meters deep without harboring any aquatic life. In the morning, we stroll along the lake's western shoreline, following the dramatic cliffside trail made famous by Eric Valli's Oscar-nominated film 'Himalaya' (Caravan). We visit the 900-year-old Thasung Tsholing Bon Gompa, perched dramatically on an elevated promontory overlooking the lake, where resident Bon lamas perform ancient rituals with bells and cymbals. Take in the thunderous view of Nepal's highest waterfall—the 167-meter Suligad (Phoksundo) Waterfall—cascading from the lake's southern lip into the gorge below. The rest of the day is spent photographing, meditating, or simply resting by the serene shoreline.
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Day 13: Trek from Shey Phoksundo Lake (3,600m) to Chhepka (2,678m) along Suligad Khola
Walking Duration: ~5–6 Hours (~16 km) | Elevation: 2,678 m / 8,786 ft | Meals: B, L, D | Accommodation: Mountain Camp / Lodge
Bidding farewell to the sacred turquoise waters of Phoksundo, we begin our descent down the magnificent Suligad gorge. The trail parallels the raging Phoksundo Khola as it tumbles downhill in a sequence of roaring rapids, white-water cascades, and emerald pools. Walking beneath a lush canopy of giant blue pine, spruce, birch, and bamboo, we soak in the rich biodiversity of Shey Phoksundo National Park. This pristine forest is home to endangered wildlife including the elusive snow leopard, musk deer, Himalayan black bear, and multicolored monal pheasants. We cross several sturdy suspension bridges suspended high above the river and pass through small seasonal settlements at Renje and Ryajik before arriving at Chhepka (2,678m). Our camp is set up in a peaceful riverside clearing bordered by terraced farmland.
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Day 14: Trek from Chhepka (2,678m) to Juphal (2,475m) via Shyanta – The Final Trekking Day
Walking Duration: ~5–6 Hours (~14 km) | Elevation: 2,475 m / 8,120 ft | Meals: B, L, D | Accommodation: Mountain Camp / Lodge (Juphal)
Our final trekking day retraces our footsteps down the lower Suligad valley. The trail descends through tranquil cedar groves and fertile terraced crops to Shyanta (2,520m) and Sulighat, where the Suligad river merges back into the mighty Bheri River. Here, we officially check out of Shey Phoksundo National Park at the forestry checkpoint. From Sulighat, we cross a long suspension bridge over the Bheri River and begin a steady 2-hour uphill climb through wheat fields and the village of Kalgau, leading to the airstrip plateau of Juphal (2,475m). Arriving in Juphal by early afternoon, we check into our lodge/camp and celebrate the triumphant completion of our circuit. In the evening, gather with your Sherpa guides, cooks, and porters for a joyous farewell party featuring traditional Nepali Dal Bhat, singing, dancing, and heartfelt gratuities.
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Day 15: Morning Flights: Juphal to Nepalgunj & Nepalgunj to Kathmandu – Journey Concludes
Flight Durations: ~40 Mins + ~50 Mins | Elevation: 1,340 m / 4,396 ft | Meals: Breakfast, Gala Farewell Dinner | Hotel: Boutique Hotel (KTM)
We rise early for a sunrise breakfast with views of the snow-clad peaks surrounding Juphal. Transferring across the runway, we board our morning STOL flight back to Nepalgunj, enjoying a final aerial view of the rugged gorges and jagged peaks of Dolpo. After a smooth transit in Nepalgunj airport, we board our connecting domestic flight to Kathmandu. Upon touching down at Tribhuvan International Airport, a private luxury vehicle transfers you back to your boutique hotel in Kathmandu. Spend a relaxing afternoon showering, enjoying a spa treatment, or shopping for pashminas and handicrafts in Thamel. In the evening, join The Regal Retreat team for a grand celebratory farewell dinner featuring authentic cultural dance performances and celebratory champagne, commemorating an unforgettable journey into Nepal's wild west!
THE REGAL RETREAT • SIGNATURE HIMALAYAN EXPEDITION
15 Days Lower Dolpo Circuit — Wilderness Trek & Altitude Profile
Kathmandu • Nepalgunj • Juphal • Dunai • Tarakot • Laini • Nawarpani • Dho Tarap • Numa La Pass • Baga La Pass • Ringmo • Shey Phoksundo Lake • Chhepka
Total Duration
15 Days / 14 Nights
Max Elevation
5,190 m (17,028 ft)
Highest Waypoint
Numa La Pass (Day 09)
Cultural Hub
Phoksundo Lake (3,600 m)
Expedition Style
Wilderness Camping & Flights
Kathmandu & Nepalgunj (Start / Transit)
Circuit Overnight Camps & Lodges
High Mountain Passes (Numa La & Baga La)
Shey Phoksundo Lake & Cultural Hubs
Lower Dolpo Wilderness Trail
Elevation Profile (Meters / Feet Above Sea Level)
Hover or tap on points to view day highlights, altitudes, and expedition lodges
Highest Point: 5,190 m (Numa La Pass)
| Day | Destination / Highlight | Altitude (m / ft) | Key Experience & Activities | Expedition Lodge / Camp |
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