Wildlife Photography Around Dolpo
Overview: Dolpo – The Remote Himalayan Wonderland
Nestled in the rugged heart of mid-western Nepal, Dolpo is one of the country's most secluded and visually captivating regions. At its center lies the ethereal Phoksundo Lake, a turquoise gem set at an altitude of 3,600 meters, surrounded by snowy peaks, ancient forests, and steep glacial valleys. Revered by the local Tibetan Buddhist communities, the lake and its surroundings are deeply spiritual and form part of the Shey Phoksundo National Park, Nepal’s largest trans-Himalayan conservation area.
This winter photography journey into Dolpo offers more than just a visual experience — it is an expedition into one of Nepal’s last untouched wildernesses, combining raw natural beauty, rich Tibetan culture, and rare wildlife.
The Wildlife of Dolpo: A Living Canvas for the Lens
Dolpo is home to some of the most elusive and awe-inspiring wildlife on the planet — a dream for nature photographers. Key species include:
- Snow Leopards – The crown jewel of Himalayan predators, these stealthy cats roam Dolpo’s high passes.
- Blue Sheep (Bharal) – Iconic highland dwellers, often spotted grazing on rocky slopes.
- Himalayan Tahr – Majestic mountain goats with thick coats, ideal subjects against snowy backdrops.
- Musk Deer – Shy and solitary, these elusive creatures add mystery to forest shots.
- Birdlife – Including Himalayan griffon vultures, golden eagles, and other high-altitude raptors and migratory species.
Winter transforms Dolpo into a silent, crystalline world, heightening the chance of spotting animals against stark, snow-covered terrain.
Phoksundo Lake in Winter: A Landscape Frozen in Time
During the winter months (December–February), Dolpo becomes a breathtaking, tranquil wilderness. Heavy snowfall blankets the highlands, and Phoksundo Lake partially freezes, creating surreal, mirror-like reflections and dramatic contrast for photography. The silence and stillness of this season allow for intimate encounters with wildlife and the environment, perfect for documentary storytelling.
Yarsa Gumpa & Cultural Encounters
A highlight of this trip is the trek to Yarsa Gumpa, a sacred Tibetan Buddhist monastery perched high above the valley. This remote spiritual site offers cultural immersion, rare access to monastic life, and panoramic vistas ideal for portrait and landscape photography.
The trail winds through traditional villages, yak pastures, ancient chortens, and high mountain ridges — a journey through living Tibetan heritage. The village of Samar and other settlements offer a unique view into the nomadic lifestyle, rituals, and resilience of Dolpo’s people.
Why Choose This Documentary Photography Trip?
- 📸 Unmatched photographic subjects – Wildlife, frozen lakes, untouched landscapes, and authentic Himalayan culture
- ❄️ Exclusive winter access – Few tourists venture here in winter, offering unique storytelling opportunities
- 🏔️ Adventure + Art – Combine trekking, wildlife observation, and cultural discovery with expert-guided photography
- 🙏 Spiritual immersion – Photograph sacred sites, prayer flags, and monastic life in remote mountain monasteries
Prepare for the Journey
This trip is best suited for experienced photographers and trekkers with a passion for wild, remote locations. Weather conditions are extreme, and physical fitness is required to navigate snow-covered trails and high-altitude terrains. However, for those willing to embrace the challenge, Dolpo in winter offers unmatched beauty and solitude, rewarding you with images and experiences few others have ever captured.
Dolpo is not just a destination—it’s a story waiting to be told. Let your lens uncover the secrets of this mystical Himalayan land.
Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m)
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Take some time to rest and recover from your journey. In the evening, there will be a short briefing on the upcoming expedition.
Day 02: Documentary Briefing & Official Preparation
Today, we attend a detailed briefing session with the Department of Forests and the Department of Immigration, where we finalize permits and receive official guidelines for conducting wildlife documentary photography in protected and restricted zones like Dolpo. Rest of the day is free for final preparation and gear check.
Day 03: Flight to Nepalgunj
We take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, located in the lowlands of western Nepal near the Indian border. Upon arrival, we transfer to the hotel and prepare for the mountainous leg of our journey.
Day 04: Flight to Juphal & Trek to Dunai (2,140m)
From Nepalgunj, we board a morning flight to Juphal (2,500m), the gateway to Dolpo. Upon arrival, we begin our trek to Dunai, the district headquarters of Dolpa. The walk takes about 3-4 hours, passing through terraced fields and small settlements.
Day 05: Trek to Leashi Cave (Approx. 8 hours)
Today, we embark on a long and rewarding trek to Leashi Cave, traversing through alpine forests, rivers, and highland trails. The trail offers excellent opportunities to photograph the dramatic landscapes of mid-western Nepal.
Day 06: Preparation for Field Documentary Assignments
We spend the day preparing logistics, equipment, and field plans for our extended documentary assignment. The team is divided into three groups, each designated to explore a unique sub-region of Dolpo to capture wildlife, landscapes, and cultural life.
Day 07: Field Deployment – Documentary Groups Head Out
- Group 01: Departs for Dho-Tarap Valley, a remote and culturally rich settlement surrounded by mountains.
- Group 02: Heads to Masthal Lekh and Tali-Patan, known for wildlife sightings and pristine Himalayan vistas.
- Group 03: Journeys toward Tarakot and Dzong-La Lekh, an ancient fortress area with diverse wildlife and spiritual landmarks.
Day 08: Extended Field Assignment in Respective Areas
Each group moves further into their designated areas:
- Group 01: Travels from Tali to Patan-Masthal.
- Group 02: Begins documentation in Dho-Tarap.
- Group 03: Crosses Dzong-La Pass and begins exploration in the greater Tarakot region.
This multi-week expedition allows participants to capture rare footage and photographs of snow leopards, blue sheep, Tibetan culture, and the winter wilderness of Dolpo.
Days 09–41: Extended Stay in Dolpo for Documentary Work
For the next one month, each group will stay in their designated regions, conducting immersive documentary photography and wildlife observation. The teams will be accompanied by local guides and conservation support staff. This in-depth exploration aims to capture the essence of Dolpo — its raw nature, endangered species, and high-altitude heritage.
At the conclusion of the fieldwork, a farewell program will be organized by local authorities in appreciation of your contribution to conservation and storytelling.
Day 45: Fly from Juphal to Nepalgunj, Evening Flight to Kathmandu
We retrace our steps back to Juphal and take an early flight to Nepalgunj, followed by an evening return flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to hotel and relax after the long expedition.
Day 46: Equipment Dry Cleaning & Final Packing
This day is dedicated to drying, cleaning, and repacking photography and trekking equipment. It’s also an opportunity to rest and reflect on the experiences from Dolpo.
Day 47: Farewell & Certification Ceremony
A farewell program will be hosted jointly by the Ministry of Environment & Population and the Ministry of Tourism, where participants will receive certificates of recognition for their successful completion of the Dolpo Wildlife Documentary Project.
Day 48: Final Departure
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international departure. Our team will assist with airport formalities and bid you farewell with heartfelt gratitude for your participation in this rare and meaningful journey.