Overview
Dolpo which is also called “Ba Yul” or the Hidden valley is a land of mystery, scenery and peace and is surrounded by Dhaulagiri and Tibet from south and north. The Dolpo region is the natural embodiment of high passes, rare flora and fauna and sweeping vistas. The medicinal plant, Yarchagumba (Coerdiopsis sinensis) a type of wild mushroom is found in abundance in this region. Extracts from Yarchagumba is believed to significantly improve health and fitness.
Dolpo is a rain shadow area which was first opened for trekking in 1991. All of the trekking areas in this region stretch through and around the Arun River whose origin dates back to the prehistoric period. The Arun valley is one of the most beautiful regions to trek in Nepal.
Dolpo is protected by the Shey-Phoksundo National Park and lies to the north of the Dhaulagiri Range bordering the Tibetan Plateau. Here one can find a well-preserved eco-system of plants and wildlife, including the blue sheep and the elusive snow leopard. The views of Kanjiroba peak, Phoksumdo Lake, and the Dhauligiri massif are some of the most rewarding moments of this trek. A visit to the Phoksumdo Gompa – dedicated to the ancient Bonpo religion, local to Dolpo and Tibet, is a memorable experience.
The Upper Dolpo region is another remote and hidden destination in the far west where Nepal's most tranquil and natural beauty is still unexplored. The home of herbal land, unspoiled trans-Himalayan culture, Buddhist monuments, and unique human civilization at high altitude is worth a visit. Trekking around the Dolpo region is an unforgettable journey in every visitor's life. Observing different rain shadow landscapes with stunning mountain views, wild flowers, Himalayan blue sheep, snow leopards, and huge birds like the Himalayan griffon. The Upper Dolpo is the home of the Bhotiya and Sherpa people.