Dolpa and Dhaulagiri

  Overview

The Dolpa section of Nepal's Great Himalayan Trail (GHT) traverses a remote and mystical landscape, offering a journey into one of the last stronghold of authentic Tibetan culture. This region is defined by ancient trading routes, medieval fortresses, and sacred sites like Shey Gompa, perched at an elevation of 4200m. Established in the 11^th century, the Gompa (monastery) is considered to be the spiritual heart of Upper Dolpa.

The Dolpo section offers a unique blend of cultural immersion and natural diversity, set amidst rugged terrain that has shaped generations of nomads. Though challenging, the rewards of traversing this region are unparalleled, offering a glimpse into a world untouched by time. In addition, it offers a unique blend of Tibetan Buddhism and the ancient Bön religion, particularly in the villages of Ringmo and Vijer.

During the trek to Dolpa region, the spiritual atmosphere is palpable, from the pilgrims journeying to sacred sites to the intricate paintings in the monasteries and the animistic wooden dolls (dokpas) placed on bridges and roofs to ward off evil spirits.

The Dolpa trail passes through some of the highest inhabited villages on earth, accessible only via high passes, offering a challenging yet profoundly rewarding trekking experience. With altitudes reaching up to 5,500 meters, the Dolpo section is both challenging and rewarding, providing stunning views of the Dhaulagiri range and beyond. The inhabitants lead a semi-nomadic lifestyle, relying on trade for survival - a way of life immortalized in Eric Valli's acclaimed film "Himalaya".

The Dolpo region is home to the Shey Phoksundo National Park (SPNP). Established in 1984, the park covers an area of 3,555 km² (1,373 sq mi) and is the largest national park in Nepal. Situated in the northwest trans-Himalayas, it borders the remote Dolpo and Mugu regions. The park's elevation ranges from 2,130 meters in Ankhe to 6,883 meters at the summit of Kanjiroba Himal, offering diverse ecosystems that are home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered snow leopard and blue sheep.

The park encompasses a wide range of ecosystems, from the dense alpine forests of pine, spruce, and fir, to the arid trans-Himalayan terrain characteristic of the Tibetan plateau. This diverse environment nurtures a variety of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species. Among the notable wildlife are the elusive snow leopard, the Himalayan tahr, blue sheep, musk deer, and over 200 species of birds, such as the Tibetan partridge and wood snipe.

Major attractions within the park include the ancient Shey Gompa, a significant Tibetan Buddhist monastery that attracts both pilgrims and trekkers alike. The park also offers stunning trekking routes, including the challenging Dolpo Trek, which winds through picturesque valleys, high mountain passes, and traditional Tibetan Buddhist villages.

The unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness makes Shey Phoksundo National Park a remarkable destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts, and for those seeking spiritual solace.

Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve (DHR): Established in 1987, Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve Adjoins Rukum, Myagdi and Baglung Districts in the Dhaulagiri Himal range in West Nepal and is the only hunting reserve in the country. The reserve extends over an area of 1325 sq. km with elevation ranging from 3000m to more than 7000m. Its landscape consists of forests, marshland and flat meadows (Patans) and is bounded by beautiful Putha, Churen and Gurja Himal to its northern boundary. The reserve is home to 32 species of mammals, including snow leopard, musk deer, red panda, blue sheep, Himalayan Tahr etc. and 137 bird species, including cheer pheasant, and impeyan pheasant. The reserve permits sports hunting of Himalayan Tahr and Blue Sheep and preserves a representative high-altitude ecosystem in West Nepal.

  Highlights

• Breathtaking Remote Landscape: Dolpo's landscape transitions from lush green hills in the south to barren, arid terrain as you head north, into the rain shadow of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna peaks. The hidden Shangri-La is adorned with stunning mountain peaks, high-altitude lakes, alpine meadows, forests and rivers.

• High-altitude Villages: Shey Gompa and Dho Tarap are among the highest permanently inhabited villages in the world. Accessible only through high passes, these villages provide a unique insight into the semi-nomadic lifestyle of the local inhabitants.

• Challenging Terrain: The Dolpo section of the Great Himalayan Trail offers rugged landscapes and high passes that present a challenging trek. However, the reward of cultural immersion and stunning natural beauty make the effort truly worthwhile.

• Phoksumdo Lake: The deepest and most pristine lake in Nepal, Phoksundo Lake is a breathtaking natural wonder. Its crystal-clear turquoise waters are framed by rocky cliffs and snow-capped peaks, creating a truly awe-inspiring sight that must be experienced firsthand.

• Authentic Tibetan Culture: Inner Dolpo preserves its authentic Tibetan culture, featuring ancient trading routes, monasteries, and medieval fortresses that offer a glimpse into a timeless way of life.

• Rich Culture and archaeological monuments: The Dolpo region is a unique blend of Tibetan Buddhism and the pre-Buddhist Bön religion, still practiced in villages like Ringmo and Vijer. The cultural landscape is enriched by monasteries, Thangka paintings, and animistic traditions. Notable Buddhist and Bon monasteries in the region include Shey Gompa (an 800-year-old monastery), Rigmo Gomba, Dho Tarap Gomba, and Vijer Gomba. Additionally, Dolpo is renowned for its Yak Caravans, a traditional mode of transportation in the Himalayan region.

• Rich biodiversity: Shey Phoksundo National Park is home to 1,579 species of flora, 35 species of mammals, 208 species of birds, and 6 species of reptiles and amphibians. Key wildlife includes the elusive snow leopard, blue sheep, musk deer, and Himalayan tahr. Dolpa has the highest density and largest population of snow leopards, making it a prime habitat for this rare predator. The region is also renowned for its botanical richness, featuring vibrant alpine flowers, aromatic juniper forests, and rare medicinal herbs, including Yarsagumba.

• Key Activities include Trekking, mountaineering, bird watching, butterfly watching, camping, pilgrimage, cultural journey, Yarsagomba expedition, Snow Leopard expedition etc.

Route Map

Photos & Vidos

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