Shey Gompa and Inner Dolpo

Shey Gompa and Inner Dolpo Overview

A classic trekking holiday in the 'wild west' Nepal region of Dolpo

This real adventure trekking holiday visits Inner Dolpo, one of the least accessible and yet most alluring corners of Nepal. Few travellers have penetrated to the heart of Dolpo, a region beautifully portrayed in Eric Valli's excellent film - 'Himalaya'. This is very much the land that time forgot, with a mix of ancient Tibetan religions and a hardy people who make their living through farming and through trade with both Tibet and Nepal. The spiritual heart of Inner Dolpo is the 'Crystal Mountain' and the 11th century Shey Gompa at its base.  The region was visited in 1973 by Peter Matthiessen accompanying George Schaller, during his study of the rare Himalayan blue sheep and the even rarer snow leopard. Matthiessen's subsequent book detailing both his trek and his personal spiritual journey has become a classic of its genre. Flying to Dolpo's only airstrip at Juphal, our holiday adventure begins with a trek north to the lush green fields of Ringmo and the stunning blue Phoksumdo Lake. After a day acclimatising in this beautiful spot we continue across the Kang La to Inner Dolpo and Shey Gompa. Our return route crosses the Shey La to the major Dolpo settlement of Saldang and then the Jeng La to reach Dho Tarap. We round off this special trekking holiday with a descent of the impressive Tarap Gorge to Tarakot and from there return to Juphal. For the connoisseur of Himalayan trekking and for anyone who wishes to visit an unspoilt region of near mythical status, this trek is an absolute must.