Dolpo: The Untouched Gem of Nepal

Dolpo: The Untouched Gem of Nepal offers breathtaking landscapes, ancient monasteries, and a rich, preserved Tibetan culture, waiting to be explored. The Dolpo region may not boast the towering peaks of the Himalayas, such as Everest and Annapurna, but this culturally Tibetan area of Nepal, long isolated from the outside world, is beginning to draw the interest of both local and international trekkers. With enhancements underway at the Juphal airfield near Dunai, an increase in visitor numbers is anticipated.

Dolpo is already famous for the modern-day gold rush surrounding the medicinal fungus yarsagumba, but for the sake of sustainability, it will be the curious, adventurous, and enthusiastic trekkers who represent the next wave of exploration. The hidden treasures of Dolpo are set to shine – these include vibrant local communities, stunning landscapes, enigmatic canyons, monasteries perched on cliffs, and crystal-clear streams. Mountains like Kanjiroba glisten on the horizon, their glaciers and cascading ice fields captivating the eye and uplifting the spirit.

Once part of the Ngari region of Tibet, Dolpo has largely escaped the tumultuous history faced by its neighboring areas; however, its cultural heritage spans centuries. The Jumla fiefdom to the west and the Lo kingdom of Upper Mustang to the east have both influenced and governed this arid, windswept land in the past. Today, Dolpo is firmly connected to Nepal, allowing its long-hidden vistas to be explored from the south.

Trekkers can consider a variety of thrilling options throughout the region; some areas are relatively easy to navigate, while others may require more effort, but all offer sensational and rewarding experiences. For a brief 10-day trip, one might opt to trek from Dunai to the stunning turquoise Phoksundo Lake near Ringmo. A mystical Bon Gompa overlooks this sparkling lake, which is surrounded by sheer cliffs, creating a breathtaking jewel in Lower Dolpo. If you extend your itinerary by a few days, you can cross the Kagmara La pass and venture towards Jumla and Rara Lake. The complete Lower Dolpo Circuit trail, which takes about two weeks, includes highlights such as Tarakot, a trading hub, and Dho Tarap, known for its cluster of exotic monasteries, before crossing two high passes over 5000 meters to reach Phoksundo Lake.

Trekking in Dolpo

Upper Dolpo reveals its wonders during a three-week expedition. From Phoksundo, the challenging Kang La (Nagdalo) pass stands as a significant hurdle before trekkers can reach the legendary Shey Gompa. Beyond this point lie the dramatic canyons of the steep-sided Tartang Khola and the Bon Gompa at Samling, close to Bhijer. Crossing the Neng La pass leads to the charming village of Saldang, and to the north, you’ll find Dolpo’s oldest monastery at Yangtsher. The enchanting setting of this remarkable monastery is one of the region’s hidden gems. The Panzang valley, remote and often overlooked, offers a sense of seclusion. Villages are sparse, with Shimen and Tinje being notable examples, while yaks peacefully graze on the slopes where sages once sought quietude for their meditations. For those seeking a truly rugged adventure, trekkers can opt to leave Dolpo via Chharka Bhot to the east. This high and wild route ascends through haunting gorges and over the Jungben La (5550m) before plunging dramatically into the Kali Gandaki valley and Jomsom.

With its myriad trails and attractions, it won’t be long before Dolpo secures its place among the top trekking destinations in Nepal and around the globe.