Standing in the midst of the rugged natural landscape of Dolpa in all its beauty, and experiencing its remoteness you cannot help but feel that this is Shangri - la - a region with an aura of mysticism about it. Dolpa, also called “Ba Yul” or the Hidden Valley, has fascinating villages and is a land of mystery, scenery and peace. Isolated and secluded from the outside world by spiraling high mountain passes and restricted entry, mysterious Dolpa had long fascinated and frustrated travelers. David Snellgrove first revealed the mysteries of Dolpa in his book Himalayan Pilgrimage (1961). Peter Matthiessen’s description of Shey Gompa (Crystal Monastery0 in the snow leopard (1979) further piqued readers’ interest.

In 1988, the valleys leading to Dolpa’s Shey-Phoksundo National Park were de-restricted to organized trekking groups who are self-sufficient in food and fuel. Lake Phoksundo is the major attraction of Dolpa. The newly promoted Dolpa Experience Circuit links Phoksundo experience with the natural beauty and cultural experience of Dho and other villages enroute. Another newly promoted trail Dolpa Heritage Circuit takes one through the many monasteries and Buddhist gompas. There are altogether 130 gompas in Dolpa, some of their histories going back to very early times.

The medicinal plant, Yarchagumba (Coerdiopsis sinensis) a type of wild mushroom is found in abundance in this region. Extracts from Yarchagumba are believed to significantly improve health and fitness.

Shey Phoksundo National Park, Lake Phoksundo and Shey Gompa are the prime attractions of this region. Newly promoted circuits, which encompass the prime attractions and also offer uniquely Dolpa experiences are: Dolpa Experience Circuit and Dolpa Heritage Circuit.

Duration of trekking : 25-35 days
Grade : Strenuous
Type of Trek : Camping
Recommended season : Spring / Autumn / Winter
Trekking starting point : Kathmandu / Nepagunj - Jhuphal
Trekking ending point : Jomsom / Kathmandu
Maximum height : 5600 m