Dolpa Region

Dolpo (དོལ་པོ) is a culturally Tibetan region located in the upper part of the Dolpa District of western Nepal. It is situated in high altitude region with a semi-arid climate, surrounded by Himalayan mountain chains, including Dhaulagri. The region if part of the sedimentary Tibeta-Tethys zone and is characterized by spare, agro pastoral populations. It is historically divided into four valleys, each represented by a VDC since 1975: Dho (Tarap Valley), Saldang (Nankhong Valley), Tinje (Panzang Valley), and Chharka (Tsharka Valley). Agriculture is practiced at varying altitudes and often requires irrigation.

The population in Dolpo is known as Dolpo in standard Tibetan and Dhol-wa in the local dialect. The Dolpo people are generally adherents of Bon, a religion with origins predating Buddhism, recognized as a fifth school of Tibetan Buddhism. Despite the near inaccessibility of the region, Dolpo has preserved its Tibetan culture in a relatively pure form, making it attractive to Westerners. The region served as the location for the 1999 Oscar-nominated film Himalaya and the German documentary Dolpo Tulku.

Dolpo traditionally trades salt from Tibet to the lower parts of Nepal. This trade is facilitated through netsang relationships, where each family in Dolpo has partners in most villages of Dolpo District for travel and trade. Recent changes, such as the availability of salt from other regions and closed borders with Tibet, have impacted the traditional netsang system.

Dolpo appears in historical records since the 8th century. In the 14th century, Dolpo fell under the control of the Kingdom of Lo, which controlled the trans-Himalayan trade route. In 1769, the Gorkhas conquered Kathmandu and established the Kingdom of Nepal, incorporating Dolpo into the kingdom.

The 1999 film Himalaya and the 2009 documentary Dolpo Tulku brought international attention to the region, though there were concerns about the authenticity of the film. Dolpo Tulku follows Sherap Sangpo's journey from India back to his home region and his role as a Buddhist spiritual leader. Orgyan Chokyi, a hermitess, is mentioned as a notable person from Dolpo. Dolpopa Sherab Gyaltsen is also mentioned in the historical context.

Overall, Dolpo is known for its unique cultural heritage, challenging geography, and the preservation of traditional practices despite its remote location.

Why Dolpa?

Dolpo is indeed a fascinating region with its unique blend of nature, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. The attractions you mentioned highlight the diverse and pristine beauty of this area. Let's delve a bit deeper into some of the key features:

1. Phoksundo Lake: It is known for its crystal clear water and turquoise color. It is the deepest lake in Nepal. Remarkably clean, with no aquatic creatures.
2. Shey Phoksundo National Park: The largest national park in Nepal. Home to endangered species such as Snow Leopard and Musk Deer.
3. Mt. Putha: Offers feasible skiing opportunities. The Bheri River provides excitement for kayakers.
4. Buddhist Holy Places: Crystal Mountain and Shey Gompa are significant pilgrimage sites.
5. Tinje Valley: An interesting area to explore.
6. Dho Tarap Valley: Human settlement at high elevation. It Offers a glimpse into traditional lifestyles.
7. Rara Lake nearest place: The largest lake in Nepal.
8. Sinjha Valley nearest place: The place where the Nepali language flourished.
9. Upper Dolpo and Upper Mustang: Preserves the old Tibetan culture in its primitive form.
10. Kyakuchin: A beautiful lake at high elevation. Nearby peak (details not provided).
11. Dolpo Peak and Mt. Kanjirowa: Prominent peaks in the region.
12. Dolpo Bon School: The only Bon School in Dolpo, emphasizing the unique Bon tradition.
13. Tichorong Village: Known for the unique dialect 'Kaike,' not spoken elsewhere.

The Dolpo region, with its rich cultural heritage, diverse flora and fauna, and stunning landscapes, is a treasure trove for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those interested in exploring ancient traditions. The mention of endangered species, pristine lakes, and unique cultural elements adds to the allure of Dolpo.

How to get Dolpa?

Dolpo, nestled in the western part of Nepal, offers unique trekking experiences. Here are two main ways to reach Dolpo:

1. Taking a Flight to Juphal:

• From Kathmandu to Nepalgunj: Regular flights are available from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj by domestic airlines such as Buddha, Yeti, and Shree. Nepalgunj is a town in western Terai, close to the Indian border and Bardia National Park.
• From Nepalgunj to Juphal (Dolpo): Regular flights connect Nepalgunj to Juphal in Dolpo, taking approximately 35 minutes. Summit Airlines and Tara Airlines operate flights to Juphal.

1. Driving to Dolpo via Nepalgunj, Musikot, Tallu Bagar, Khading, and Tripurakot:

• Kathmandu to Nepalgunj: Local buses and Hiace Vans are available from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, with departures from Gongabu bus station. The journey takes about 12 hours by bus and is shorter by Hiace Vans.
• Nepalgunj to Dolpo (Dunai): From Nepalgunj, buses depart to Jajarkot, and from there, local jeeps can be taken to Radi (Rari), Tallu Bagar, Khadang, and Tripura. The road is not blacktopped, and jeep changes may be necessary due to the lack of highway bridges. Traveling this road is not recommended during the summer. If traveling by road, the journey from Nepalgunj to Dunai (2150m), the district's headquarters, takes two days.

1. Permits Required for Dolpo Trek:

To explore Dolpo, several permits are mandatory:

• Upper Dolpo Trek: Upper Dolpo Restricted Permit: USD 500 for the first 10 days, and USD 50 per person per day for additional days. Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Fee: USD 30 for foreigners, NPR 1500 for SAARC nationality, and NPR 100 for Nepali visitors.
• Lower Dolpo Trek: Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Fee: USD 30 for foreigners, NPR 1500 for SAARC nationality, and NPR 100 for Nepali visitors. Two weeks permits for Lower Dolpo: USD 20 per person per week.

How to Obtain Dolpo Trekking Permits:

• Permits are mandatory and can be obtained through registered trekking agencies.
• At least two travelers are required to obtain both Lower and Upper Dolpo permits.
• Restricted permits are issued by the Nepal Immigration Department.

Documents Required for Permits:

• Clean copy of a valid passport.
• Copy of a visible passport-sized photo (taken within the last 6 months).
• International flight tickets to Nepal.
• Copy of travel insurance.
• Covid-19 vaccinated certificate.
• Hotel booking details if booked independently.

Note:

Shey-Phoksundo National Park entry tickets are issued by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation at Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or at the entry point.

Important:

Trekking in Dolpo is typically organized through local trekking agencies due to permit regulations, and individual travel is not allowed. Agencies can assist in permit processing, provide guides, and organize camping trips for a comprehensive Dolpo experience.

Food & Stay

1. Camping Trek in Dolpo:

Camping treks in Dolpo offer a unique and immersive experience, allowing trekkers to explore the region's remote areas. Here's what you can expect:

• Logistics: All camping equipment, kitchen implements, and food are transported by pack animals like mules, yaks, or horses. A team consisting of a guide, a cook, and a horseman or yak herder accompanies trekkers.
• Daily Routine: The horseman and cook usually run ahead during the day, preparing a packed lunch for trekkers. Upon reaching the campsite, the team sets up tents, cooks dinner, and prepares the area for trekkers.
• Accommodation: Trekkers are provided with single tents. The dining tent serves as a communal area for meals and socializing. A hot cup of tea and biscuits welcome trekkers upon arrival at the campsite.
• Dining: The cook prepares a buffet of dishes for dinner, offering a variety of delicious options. Camping allows for a more customized and varied menu.
• Scenic Settings: Campsites are carefully chosen for their scenic beauty and proximity to trekking routes. Trekkers can enjoy the natural surroundings and peaceful nights in the mountains.

1. Tea House Trek in Dolpo:

While camping treks offer a more personalized experience, tea house treks provide a different yet equally enriching journey. Here's what tea house trekking in Dolpo entails:

• Accommodation: Trekkers stay in local lodges, often sharing rooms. Rooms are basic, with a bed, pillow, and blankets. Electric lights may be available in some lodges.
• Dining: Meals are provided at teahouses, offering a variety of local dishes such as potatoes, rice, noodle dishes, soups, and seasonal vegetables. Breakfast options include cereals, bread, and egg dishes.
• Availability of Amenities: Teahouses may offer basic amenities like snacks, chocolate, soft drinks, and sometimes fresh fruit. Beers and local spirits are usually available at an additional cost.
• Meeting Porters: It is common to meet porters at the teahouse where trekkers stay overnight. Trekkers pack their necessary items in a daypack for daily use.
• Phoksundo Lake Trek: Phoksundo Lake trek is the only tea house-based trek in the Dolpo region.Trekkers can experience local hospitality and culture along the trail.

Best Time to Visit Dolpo

Spring Season (Mid-March to May):

• Ideal time with greenery starting in mid-April.
• Late snowfall may be possible.

Summer Season:

• Considered the best time for Dolpo.
• Suitable weather for trekking, not too cold nor too hot.

Autumn Season (Late September to Mid-November):

• Popular time for trekking in Dolpo.
• Colder weather from October.

Winter Season (Mid-November to Mid-Late March):

• Harsh and snowy conditions.
• High passes are blocked by snow.
• Trekking during winter is not recommended.

Note: It's essential to check weather forecasts for specific areas and carry printouts during your trek.

Whether opting for a camping or tea house trek, Dolpo offers a diverse range of experiences, from the pristine wilderness to cultural encounters with local communities. Choose the style that aligns with your preferences and embark on a memorable journey in this remote and beautiful region.