Dolpa, April 10
Nestled among towering mountains, adorned with shimmering lakes beneath a clear blue sky, and defined by a calm, simple lifestyle, Dolpa is regarded as one of the rarest and most captivating regions not only in Nepal but in the world.
Its natural grandeur has the power to mesmerise anyone visiting for the first time. However, due to weak infrastructure and difficult accessibility, Dolpa’s beauty remains largely confined and unexplored.
A key highlight of Dolpa is Shey Phoksundo Lake. With its extraordinary deep blue colour and location cradled in the lap of the Himalayas, it is considered one of Nepal’s most beautiful lakes. The serene surroundings, alpine vegetation, and pristine air further enhance its charm.
Similarly, Jagdulla Lake, Tripurasundari Temple, and the ancient Masto traditions, along with rich Buddhist culture, are major attractions of the region. The landscapes of Upper Dolpa, the Kanjiroba Himalayan range, and the unique mountain lifestyle transport visitors into a completely different world.
Despite its immense potential, reaching Dolpa is not easy. Many parts of the district still require several days of walking. Although road access has reached the district headquarters, Dunai and some areas of Lower Dolpa, Upper Dolpa remains disconnected from the national road network.
Although Dolpa was officially declared connected to the national road network on December 4, 2018, roads under the Bheri Corridor have yet to become fully operational.
Construction of the Lasekap–Sisoul road section under the Bheri Corridor, which is meant to connect Upper Dolpa, has not gained momentum. According to Sher Budha, chairperson of Civil Society Dolpa, completion of this road would increase tourist arrivals and improve local livelihoods.
The absence of concrete bridges over several rivers along the Jajarkot–Dolpa section makes travel especially risky during the monsoon. While direct transport operates to the district headquarters during winter, locals like June Sarki say that in the rainy season, travellers are often forced to change vehicles four to five times.
Air travel: Reliable but expensive
Currently, Jufal Airport serves as the main gateway to Dolpa. However, limited flights, unpredictable weather, and high fares continue to pose challenges for both travellers and tourists.
According to local tourism entrepreneur Norbu Lama, visitors are often amazed by Dolpa’s beauty, but many hesitate to return due to the difficult journey.
The lack of infrastructure has directly impacted daily life in Dolpa. Four rural municipalities still lack road access, forcing residents to walk long distances even to reach the district headquarters.
In areas like Mudkechula Rural Municipality, road and bridge construction is progressing slowly. Although the under-construction Jagdulla Hydropower Project has raised some hope, delays in building the Triveni Bridge at the Rukum West–Dolpa border have hindered road expansion.
Lack of communication services
Another major challenge in Dolpa is poor access to communication and internet services. In many areas, the absence of network connectivity leaves both locals and tourists disconnected from information and communication.
Despite repeated demands for service expansion through Nepal Telecom, the issue remains unresolved. Former minister Dhan Bahadur Budha said that appeals to the central office of Nepal Telecom have not received an effective response.
According to Member of Parliament Budha, Dolpa could emerge as one of the country’s leading tourist destinations if reliable roads, affordable air services, quality hotels, and improved communication facilities are developed.
A gateway of possibilities
Dolpa is rich in natural attractions. Shey Phoksundo Lake, Phoksundo Waterfall, Mukut Himal, yarsagumba, highland pastures, and rare wildlife such as the snow leopard and blue sheep are among its key highlights. The region also offers stunning Himalayan views and a distinct cultural heritage.
However, this vast potential can only be transformed into tangible achievements through the expansion of reliable roads, affordable air services, quality accommodations, and communication infrastructure.
Though naturally rich, Dolpa still lags in infrastructure development. Recognised as one of the most beautiful places in the world, the district holds immense potential to establish itself not only as a major destination in Nepal but also on the global tourism map—if accessibility is ensured.
