Trekking to the Nepal’s untouched region, Dolpo

Dolpo, pronounced “Dol-pa” in Nepali, is an extremely remote and secluded region of the mid-west Nepal located in the widespread Shey-Phoksumdo National Park. The park, which was established in 1984, covers more than 3,555 square kilometers.

Dolpo-pam, as it is called in the local dialect, nestles behind the stunning Dhaulagiri massif bordering the Tibetan plateau. The proximity with the Tibet has greater influence in the villages of Dolpo and hence the authentic and ancient Tibetan culture is more likely to be seen in Dolpo.

The mysterious and the beautiful Lake Phoksundo in the Lower Dolpo
The enchanting lake that banks the popular Bon settlement, Ringmo in Lower Dolpo has no aquatic life at all

It has not been long since the Government of Nepal opened the doors to the secluded, untouched and mysterious lands Dolpo for the western trekkers. No doubt the landscapes of Dolpo are fascinatingly eye feasting. Equally, tempting aspect of Dolpo is the culture of the region. Since the beginning of human settlement in the far-flung villages of Dolpo, they have lived, traded and cultivated just as their counterparts do in the remote regions of flanking Tibet. The balance of thriving ancient Tibetan culture and the available geographic conditions in the vicinity where the western influence has no space at all, Dolpo is the most potential trekking region in Nepal in terms of natural and cultural highlights.

Besides the phenomenal cultural display, Dolpo is an amazing destination for faunal and floral factors. These days the Dolpo’s gold rush “Yarsagumba”, a medicinal herb has grabbed attention of millions. Dolpo is truly a God’s garden housing 1000s of important medicinal herbs that grow beautifully in the wilds of Dolpo’s barren lands. Moreover, within this scenic highland forum the elusive Snow Leopard, treasured Blue Sheep and Himalayan Black Bear wonder in the widespread conserved parts of Phoksundo National Park.

People of Dolpo has been cultivating, trading and cattle herding to sustain for ages
The barren lands of Dolpo grow some grains to offer the staple food to the people relying on it

During the trek in Dolpo, trekkers can witness the lush vegetation of full blooming Silver Firs and Birches on their way to Chaurikot. The tranquil trials of Dolpo Trek come across intriguing experiences close to the heart. The trek to Dolpo is so fascinating that trekkers do not realize when they have arrived to the dramatically settled hilltops. Unpredictable weather demonstrated by changing formation of the cloud and views of Himalayan peaks including Kanjiroba, Jagadu and Patrasi are exceedingly beautiful.

Within the imaginary latitude, that resembles the one of Cairo, the mountains here in Dolpo soar to the sky over 21000 feet altitude. There are always the reasons why trekker to Dolpo gets amazed every single day of the trek. Whether it is highland cold deserts dominated by Tibetans practicing ancient lifestyle or it is the beauty of crystal clear highland lake Phoksundo, Dolpo Trek is truly fascinating that caters a lifetime experience.

WWF leads the natives of Dolpo to conserve the elusive beauty, Snow Leopard in Dolpo
WWF leads the natives of Dolpo to conserve the elusive beauty, Snow Leopard in Dolpo

Hidden secrets of Dolpo lay in its several unclimbed peaks, deep empty valley, ancient highland monasteries, eyefeasting landscapes and the most importantly the culture that really compels anyone to travel to the past. Dolpo, in brief is a true gold rush to anyone who admires untouched nature and undisturbed lifestyle.