Rara-Karnali Tourism Sector

Dolpa District is located in province no. 6 (Karnali Pradesh) covering an area of 7,889 sq.km. Dunai is its administrative headquarters. The district borders Mustang on the east, Jumla and Mugu on the west, Tibet (China) on the north and northeast, Myagdi, Jajarkot, and Rukum on the south. The elevation of this district ranges from 1,525 m to 7,625 m. It is the biggest area occupying the district of Nepal.

Tourism in Dolpa

Dolpa region is a distant region of Nepal and the central point of this area is Shey Phoksundo National Park. Trekking to Lower Dolpa offers you the remarkable and breathtaking experience of a lifetime. The notable features seen here are snowy peaks, ancient and remote villages, rich wildlife, lovely Buddhist monasteries, and wonderful lakes. The people of this area are simple and warm-hearted with an enthralling culture and traditions. The cultural traditions of this area are linked with the Tibetan culture. Trekking into Dolpa presents an exposure to the high and remote Himalayan valleys, resembling the Tibetan highlands. The main highlight of Dolpa trekking includes “Shey Phoksundo National Park” which is one of the major National Parks of Nepal. “Shey Phoksundo Lake” is another famous feature of this region. Surrounded by rocks, forests, and snow-capped peaks, the area has been described as one of the world's “Natural Hidden Wonders”. Dolpa Airport (DOP), also known as Juphal Airport, is the mode to get access to Dolpa.

Places to visit in Dolpa

Shey-Phoksundo National Park

Shey Phoksundo National Park is the largest and only trans-Himalayan national park in Nepal. It was established in 1984 and covers an area of 3,555 km2 (1,373 sq mi) in the districts of Dolpa and Mugu. Phoksundo Lake is the park's prominent feature, located at an elevation of 3,612 m. Shey Phoksundo National Park provides a diversity of spectacular landscapes and ranks among the most scenic mountain parks in the world. Much of the park lies north of the Himalayan crest. Elevations range from 2,130 m (6,990 ft) in the southeast near Ankhe to 6,883 m (22,582 ft) at the summit of Kanjiroba Himal, which lies at the southern edge of the Tibetan plateau. The flora found within the park is extremely diverse. The park contains many gompas and religious sites, many of which have been renovated.

Shey-Phoksundo Lake

Phoksundo Lake is an alpine freshwater oligotrophic lake in Nepal's Shey Phoksundo National Park, located at an elevation of 3,611.5 m above sea level. It is surrounded by glaciers and famous for its magnificent turquoise color. Near the lake’s outlet is the country’s highest waterfall.

Lower Dolpo Trek

Lower Dolpo Trek is one of the most exciting and challenging treks situated in the western hills of Nepal, which allows the trekkers to experience the real adventures of trekking on an off-the-beaten-path, composed of steep sloppy hills. Juphal is the starting point for this trek. Lower Dolpo Trek is packed with amazing gifts of nature, including Shey Phoksundo Lake, and also boasts of the pre-Buddhism Bon Po culture. The trekkers also traverse through two high passes: Numa La (5,360m), the highest point of the trek, and Baga La (5,070m). Both these passes offer extraordinary views of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and the Tibetan ranges—Kugung La and Khyung La. During summer, we can see the caravans of yaks and sheep heading towards their destination.

Inner Dolpo Trek

Inner Dolpo, located in the mid-western region of Nepal, is certainly one of Nepal’s best trekking regions, for it takes trekkers beyond the tranquil Phoksundo Lake through ancient trading routes to the Tibetan border crossing high passes, steep valleys, Tibetan village settlements, lush green forests, and arid landscape. Inner Dolpo Trek allows trekkers to traverse through the unexplored land of Dolpo and to experience the purity of Tibetan Buddhism practiced widely in the area. The trek begins from Jhupal following the trails of Suli Gad and Phoksundo River that pass through the dense alpine forest of rhododendrons, oaks and pines, grassy fields, and different remote villages until you reach the beautiful Phoksundo Lake: the deepest lake of Nepal. You trek through Shey Phoksundo National Park where you may encounter different Himalayan wildlife like snow leopard, blue sheep, Ghoral, Himalayan black beer, and so on. You also cross high pass of Kang-La (5,350m) that takes you to the ancient Shey Gompa situated on the foot of the holy Crystal Mountain, which is one of the main attractions of Inner Dolpo.

Upper Dolpo Trek

Upper Dolpo Trek route is a remote and unspoiled area near the Tibetan border of Nepal. Only in the late eighties, it was opened for trekkers. In the book “The Snow Leopard” by Peter Mathesons and in "Stones of Silence" by George Schaller describes their journey through the beautiful land of Dolpo. Nepal’s first English subtitle movie and Oscar-nominated Himalaya or Caravan was also shot in this region. Upper Dolpo trekking begins from Juphal (2,285m/7496ft). The trail passes through numerous gigantic mountain ranges, over the Numa La pass (5,190m/17,028ft). This trek is best to do in the summer and monsoon season. Winter seasons are avoided for this trek because of the heavy snowfall. The main highlights of the trek is an ancient, spectacular landscapes, mesmerizing Shey Phoksundo lake, isolated villages of Ringmo and the centuries-old monasteries. Phoksundo is the deepest lake of Nepal with its 145m depth according to a survey by the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology. Such as centuries-old Buddhist monasteries (which is known as Shey Gompa) wildlife, pristine lake, soaring peaks, and people's lifestyle of the least developed region are also another attraction of the trek.

Humla District lies in Province No. 6 (Karnali Pradesh), covering an area of 5,655 sq. km. Simikot is the administrative headquarter. Adjoining districts are Mugu in the east, Tibet in the west and north, and Bajhang and Bajura in the south. The Northern part of the Humla District is inhabited by Khas people, originating from Sinja valley, whereas the northern border is mostly inhabited by Tibetans. Wild yaks were once thought to be regionally extinct in Nepal, but was rediscovered in Humla in 2014.

Tourism in Humla

Humla lies in the far west of Nepal, on the border between Nepal and China, and is used as the starting point for trekking and mountaineering, accessible from Simikot Airport (IMK). The trekking route to Tibet also starts from Simikot. The road descending from Nara La Pass (4,535 m) of Humla to the border of Tibet at Hilsa on the bank of Karnali River. The trail to Hilsa passes through Sakya KholaKhola valley (4,709m), Gyau Khola valley (4,824m), Chyakpalung (4,867m), Lalung largo (5,007m), from where Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar in the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China can be seen. The road is connected from Lake Manasarovar close by Mount Kailash in Tibet. The border crossing at Hilsa is a main entry point for treks going to and coming from Mount Kailash. The Nepal section of The Great Himalaya Trail ends in Humla at Hilsa at the border with Tibet. The Humla district is a historic part of the Tibetan Buddhist religious tradition, with several points of interest for the history, culture, and values of a typical Buddhist life. It has eleven small villages of Tibetan origin. The Nyinba Community and the Limi Valley are inhabited by Buddhist communities.

Places to visit in Humla

Simikot Bazar

Simikot lies at an elevation of 2,945 meters above the sea level. It is situated high above the Humla Karnali River and is surrounded by high snow-covered peaks. Simikot is the gateway to the Holy Mt, Kailash, and Lake Manasarovar trek, which takes about 3-5 days to walk up to the Tibetan border. There is an airport connected with Nepalgunj, Kathmandu, and Surkhet. The Airport can only give services to small aircraft such as twin otter and helicopter due to its short runway.

Simikot La (3,270m)

During the trek in Humla, you might need to acclimatize. Closer to the Simikot Bazar, Simikot La lies at the northwest part of the main town at an altitude of 3,270 m above sea level. From Simkot Lagna you can catch a glimpse toward the upper parts of Humla Karnali valley and the first pass toward Limi. If the weather gets clear you will see some of the ridges toward Saipal Himal (7,031 meters) and several high peaks toward the northeast as well. On the opposite side of the Karnali River, you will see several fascinating villages below and up the valley.

Tso Lamgyok

Tso Lamgyok Lake lies at an elevation of 5,010 m of Humla. The lake lies within the Gyau Valley, which is located in the south-western corner of the Tibetan Plateau, bordering the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China to the north of Nepal.

Limi Valley Trek

Nestled between the Indian subcontinent and the frozen plains of Tibetan Plateau, Humla lies hidden in the far northwest corner of Nepal. Limi Valley located in North part of Humla was recently open for trekkers in 2002 AD. Since then every year only a few westerners visit this area for a holiday. Limi valley is one of the most beautiful and remote places left to visit in the entire Himalayas. The serenity, tranquility of rugged landscape, ancient Tibetan traditions and charms, are the main attraction of this area. During this trek, you have a chance to spot the elusive snow leopard, Himalayan blue sheep, jackals, hyenas, and musk deer. You sleep in authentic, small Buddhist villages and camp in amazing spots amidst the snow-capped mountains. Due to its remote location, Humla is still an “off the beaten trek destination”. Especially in spring and summer, you’ll see very few tourists.

Railing Gumba and Nyinba Valley

The Nyinba Valley reflects the culture and period of the 18th Century because of the well preserved Buddhist traditions in this old Tibetan village. The trek brings you to the Buddhist monastery of Railing Gompa, which is spectacularly located at the bottom of Crystal Mountain. This valley has four villages inhabited by Bhotia Community. The village structure is unique and resembling Buddhist Mandala. Mt. Shelmogang (5,300m), also known as Mount Crystal Peak, Siddhi Cave of Guru Rimpoche are the major attractions of this trek. This trek is one of the most culturally and scenically rewarding trek to experience Humla. You can climb the Crystal Moutain peak from June to October with the permits.

Jumla District lies in Province No. 6 (Karnali Province), covering an area of 2,531 sq. km. Jumla Bazar is the administrative headquarter. Adjoining districts are Dolpa in the east, Kalikot in the west, Mugu in the north, and Jajarkot in the south. The Nepali language (then known as Khas language) originated in the Sinja Valley. Sinja was the capital of Khas Kingdom, and the dialect called "Khas Bhasa" is still spoken among that region's people.

Tourism in Jumla

Jumla is surrounded by beautiful and mesmerizing landscapes. You can get a clear view of Mt. Kanjirowa, witness cultivable land and greeneries as you stroll around the roads of Jumla. The Tila Valley as well as the Sinja Khola Valley are covered with paddy fields growing the 'Kala Marci' rice variety, a unique red rice that is sought after for its special taste. It is popular for the Apple Farming. It has a STOL airport, Jumla Airport, and the road network first reached it from Surkhet in May 2007. It is the usual starting point for treks to Rara Lake. The trail is very much "off the beaten path" and affords glimpses of culture and scenery very different from those in the rest of the country. Located at a high altitude, travelers will surely be amazed by the rich wildlife, captivating people, and their culture and scenic landscapes. Jumla Airport connects this district with the major cities of Nepal, like Nepalgunj, Surkhet, and Kathmandu.

Places to visit in Jumla

Sinja Khola Valley

Sinja Valley contains the archaeological evidence of the capital city of the well organized and influential Western Malla or Khasa Kingdom of the 12th and 14th Centuries. After the 14th Century, the Khasa Kingdom split into the Baise or Twenty-Two Kingdoms which existed until the unification of Nepal in the late 18th Century. Across from the Hima River, there are caves with ancient votive Buddhist chaityas and cliff inscriptions. Even today the ancient rites of the Masto (Shamans) are practiced in many of the stone Dewals or temples. The Sinja Valley was where the Nepali language originates from and the earliest examples of the Devanagari script from the 13th Century were found on the cliffs and in nearby Dullu.

Tila Valley (Kala Marci Rice Variety)

The entire Tila Valley and the nearby Sinja Khola Valley are brimming with paddy fields where the local ‘Kala Marci’ rice is grown in abundance. This rice is red and delivers much more taste than the more common white rice that is so popular in other countries. The rice provides more energy than the other rice. So its price is higher

Jumla Bazar

Being headquarter of Jumla district, the bazaar is well facilitated with proper infrastructures such as roads, electricity, and a substantial number of schools, airports, banks, and other huge-sized houses. The main attraction of the bazaar is Chandannath temple, where you can witness soulful musical aarati every morning and evening.

Apple Garden

Jumla ranks the first place in terms of Apple production. Apple farming is done in 3,350 hectares of land in Jumla. Apples produced in the district are exported to markets in Surkhet, Nepalgunj, Kohalpur, Kathmandu, Butwal, Dang, and Narayanghat, among other cities. Apple farming has increased significantly in the district after the government started ‘one house, one garden’ program. If you visit Jumla, it’s better to taste the Fresh Jumla Apple from the Apple garden and taste the Local Apple Brandy.

Hot Water Spring

There are many natural hot springs in Jumla. You can relax by taking a warm and refreshing bath at Tatopani located near Khalanga bazaar. You can enjoy the hot water bath for as much time as you want and relax and rejuvenate yourself from the scorching sun and tiring day.

Kalikot District lies in Province No. 6 (Karnali Province), covering an area of 1,741 sq. km. Manma is the administrative headquarter. Adjoining districts are Jumla in the east, Achham in the west, Bajura and Mugu in the north, and Dailekh and Jajarkot in the south. Kalikot district has a different range of altitudes from 730 m (Khulalu) to 4790 m (Chulimalika). The Karnali Highway connects Kalikot with other parts of the country; however, Karnali highway seems to be dangerous and off-road for driving.

Tourism in Kalikot

Kalikot is rich in terms of natural resources although it lacks in terms of modern development facilities. It contains many herbs that have high medicinal use and importance such as Yarshagumba, Jatamashi, Panchaule, etc. Many tributary rivers of Karnali also flow through the district among which Tila River is the main tributary that accommodates many species of fish including Asla. Snowfall occurs during the winter and a lot of people come here to enjoy it and play with the snow during winters. The hills are deeply covered with white snow which adds more beauty to the place. Besides that, it also has many waterfalls, breathtaking views, many beautiful birds including Danphe, Rhododendron forest, etc. which adds up to the beauty of the place demanding at least a visit from the tourists. Chulimalika and Pugamalika are the famous temple of Kalikot.

Places to visit in Kalikot

Belke Dhunga Temple

Belke Dhunga Temple lies in the Thirpu Village of Kalikot. It is on the bank of Karnali river appeals pilgrims, especially in Maghe Sankranti. The origin of this temple is still unknown. Thousands of pilgrims from the neighboring districts come here to worship and participate in the fairs during Maghe Sankranti (January). They perform dances sing the songs.

Tila Cave

Tila Cave lies on the bank of Tila River. It is about 150m long. It is a clean and dry cave. Visitors need to carry the light, since it is dark inside. Inside the cave, you will find the shape of different gods and godesses.

Tiseli Cave

It lies in the northwest of Manma, which is also on the bank of Tila River. To reach Tiseli cave, you have to take an hour bus ride from Manma and about 30 minutes’ walk from the bus stop. You will find the entrance like a door in the cave. And inside the cave, there are many segments like a room of a house. There is a belief that this cave was the residing place of Pandava during the war.

Rudu Banchu Garden

Rudu Banchu Garden lies at the elevation of 4,200m above the sea level on the east from Manma which takes about 2 days trek to reach. It is the highest point in Kalikot. It seems like the ridge of hills starts from this small hill. At the top, there is a vast grassland which is itself a garden. From here, the hills of Jumla, Jajarkot, and Dailekh. This garden has the religious importance also. There, you can find many herbal plants.

Panchadewal

Panchadewal is a religious site of Kalikot. This belongs to the ancient time where we can see the carving of Goddess in the stone. The main temple is 15 feet wide and 18 feet tall. This main temple is surrounded by other 5 temple of height 15 feet. During the festival, Dashain and Shivaratri, devotees visit the temple to worship Shiva, Parwati, and other gods and goddess.

Kot Durbar

Kot Durbar lies in the Khadachakra Bazar of Manma. There is a belief that Kot Durbar belongs to King of Baise-Chubise Rajya. You will find the remaining of durbar at present. Still, you can find the inscription on the stone of Durbar.

Panchal Waterfall

The Pachal waterfall is one of the highest waterfalls located at the Kalikot district. This hidden gem is settled in the remote area of Nepal and falls from a height of 385 meters. The view of the gigantic waterfall and gushing sound of the water falling from the enormous height is just magical and worth capturing.

Dailekh District lies in Province No. 6 (Karnali Province), covering an area of 1,502 sq. km. Dailekh Bazar is the administrative headquarter. It is about 648 Km from Kathmandu. Adjoining districts are Jajarkot in the east, Accham in the west, Kalikot in the north, and Surkhet in the south. The altitude of this district ranges from 544m to 4,168 m. It is said that the name Dailekh is derived from ‘Dadhi’ and ‘Lekh’. Dadhi stands for ‘Dadhichi’. ‘Dadhichi’ was a sage in ancient times and ‘Lekh’ means hill. So, combining both makes ‘Dadhi Lekh’ means the hill where sage Dadhichi meditated.

Tourism in Dailekh

It is the hallmark of architecture, cultural, religious, and geographical significance. The natural beauty, lush green vegetation, and panoramic hills unlike ‘Mahabugath Peak’ (4,168 m) and other beautiful hills and uplands including flora and fauna too tempt the visitors. Extensively, the Dwari Jharana (Bulbule Falls), historical artifacts of Dullu area, Kirtikhamba (1038 BS), the Panchakoshi pilgrimage (religious sites), the Bhairabi Falls are such natural beauty and cultural sites in the district. Heritages like Panchadeval, Kotgadi, and Mahabu Dham situated in the highest elevation of Dailekh are also pride of this district. Besides this, there are many significant geographical, pilgrimage, and natural heritages in the district. Dailekh is connected with Birendranagar via Dailekh road and meets to which is connected with Mahendra Highway at Kohalpur. Through Mahendra Highway, one can get access to Kathmandu, Pokhara, and other cities of Nepal.

Places to visit in Dailekh

Mahabu Lekh

Mahabu Lekh is a hill located at the border of Kalikot and Dailekh at an elevation of 4,168m above the sea level. This region has the grassland with the flower bloom in the spring season. At the top, there is 6 feet tall Shiva Linga, where thousands of devotees visit there on Shrawan (July/August). Mainly, the people from the neighboring district the Dailekh visit there.

Bhurti Temple Complex of Dailekh

The temple complex of Bhurti in Dailekh District of Western Nepal consists of an ensemble of 22 monuments. Exactly when and by whom this temple complex was established and constructed is not known. The temples are constructed in the typical style of Western Malla Architecture. The monuments are constructed in dry stone masonry in Panchadeval style - a variant prevalent in the entire Khasa Kingdom. The style, form, and craftsmanship of the temples are unique to the region. The temples are in their original state and are at some distance from the nearby township. The temple complex is in good condition.

Dungeshwor Temple

Dungeshwor Temple is one of the religious affairs in Dailekh. This place is located in Lower Dungeshwor, the highest place in Dailekh district. This place is located in the confluence of Loohre and Karnali River, at the level of 544 meters from the sea level. In ancient times, here is believed to be the end of the day. There are two temples by Shideshwor Mahadev and Dungal Temple in Dungeshwor. According to Ancient holy flame myth and Vaishwankar myth of Dailakh district, this area is considered to be a place in the center of five famous Panchkoshi, five in Dailekh district.

Dhuleshwor

Dhuleshwor is a religious site in Dailekh. It is one of five places under the Panchkoshi, the five holy places of Dailekh. This site is located at the Badalamji village of Dullu Municipality. The ground under the temple generates dust. Scientists have studied it as a minor epicenter of a volcano, however religious faiths credit it with divine power. Dhuleshwor temple is known as the most important of Panchkoshi, among Padukasthan, Shirsthan, Nabhisthan, and Kotilasthan.

Padukasthan

Padukasthan is a Religious site in Dailekh. It is one of the five places under the Panchkoshi, the five holy places of Dailekh. According to mythology, this place is named after Lord Shiva's wife, Satidevi's decayed feet; "Paduka" meaning feet and "sthan" meaning the place. Even the inscription of the feet of Lord Bishnu was found here, so this place is also called as Bishnu Padukasthan. You can find the stone inscriptions of Shak Sambat 1136 and 1162. Deval pillars of Khas king Sawn Karki Sauka Kakaryani written are located here. The background occupies Shiva, Bhairav, Gorakhnath, Buddha, Jain, Lakshminarayan, Ganesha, Machindranath, Shiva ling are vandalized and unfulfilled. In this temple, the pilgrims and saints over here make regular worship.

Jajarkot District lies in Province No. 6 (Karnali Province), covering an area of 2,223.36 sq. km. Khalanga Bazar is the administrative headquarter. Adjoining districts are Rukum West in the east, Kalikot and Dailekh in the west, Jumla and Dolpa in the north, and Surkhet and Salyan in the south. The altitude of this district ranges from 610m to 5,412 m above the sea level.

Tourism in Jajarkot

A view of the district from the top of Jajarkot Bajar reveals the mighty Bheri River that bounds the district winding its way around the base of a hill. Once a part of the Baise Rajya, Jajarkot is one of the few places that has a palace from that era that compares to the Malla palaces in Kathmandu. There are also two other smaller palaces well worth a visit. With mountains soaring to 5,412 meters above sea level, Jajarkot is also ideal for Himalayan vistas, including Mt. Sisne and Jaljala. Jajarkot is dotted with temples but the one that gets the most attention is the Shiva temple, located in a cave three hours walk from Jajarkot Bajar. A colony of bats awaits devotees in the 'bat cave'. Jajarkot also shares the rich mid-western heritage of deuda and tappa dances. It's possible to get to Jajarkot by road but an easier option is to take a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and then a flight to Chaurjhari. Jajarkot Bajar is about three hours trek from Chaurjhari.

Places to visit in Jajarkot

Thulo Durbar

Jarjarkot Durbar, a historic palace carrying an archaeological significance, lies in the Khalanga Bazar of Jajarkot. There is a belief that the then King Gajendra Narayan Shah of Jajarkot built the palace in 1400 BS. The seven-storey durbar was reduced to four storeys by the massive earthquake of 1934. The palace houses Ghatghar, Kotghar, Durgakhopi, Bhandarghar, Bhardari Baithak room, Singhadwar, Mayurdwar, and other historic artifacts. This palace is now using for administrative purposes.

Religious and Historical Sites

Jajarkot is not only rich in natural resources, but also cultural, religious and historical sites. The ancient culture and traditions are still preserved and performed in different festivals. Some famous temples are Saikumari Temple, Thakurji Mandir, Bouddha Chaitya, Masto Temple. Jagatipur Area, Barekot Area and Samakot Area has the historical importance. Singaru Nach, Paiseri Nach, Sarange Nach, Khado Nach, are the popular dance of Jajarkot.

Natural Resources

Jajarkot is rich is natural resources. Some famous waterfall are Bhagawti Waterfall, Silsile Waterfall, and Rahapani Waterfall. Similarly, Dashera Falma Cave, Shanta Cave, Bhumeshwor Cave of Kudu are the cave of this region.