Shey Festival 2024
Kathmandu, Nepal - 16d
Once every 12 years, the spiritual community of Dolpo unites for Shelri Dugra—a four-day celebration marked by archery competitions, gatherings, and joyous festivities.
Imagine a land where the whispers of ancient yogis blend with the chants of Buddhist monks, where turquoise lakes reflect the grandeur of the Himalayas, and the air is thick with the essence of timeless spirituality. Welcome to Dolpo, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Nepal, untouched by the rush of modernity, and home to the mystical Shey Festival.
Every 12 years, the Shey Festival transforms Dolpo into a vibrant celebration of culture, spirituality, and community. Centered around Shey Gompa and the revered Crystal Mountain, this festival is a profound expression of faith and tradition. Pilgrims from across the region, and indeed the world, converge to partake in sacred ceremonies, blessings, and the ancient ritual of circumambulation, believed to cleanse the soul and fortify the spirit.
We invite you to join us on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through this ethereal landscape. Following in the footsteps of Peter Matthiessen and the great spiritual teachers of the past, our camping trek offers a unique blend of adventure and introspection. Picture yourself camping in comfort by the serene waters of Phoksundo Lake, under a canopy of stars that seem close enough to touch. Trekking through pristine trails, you'll witness the raw beauty of Dolpo, from its rugged mountains to its hidden valleys, each step a meditation in motion.
Our expedition is more than a trek; it is a soulful odyssey where every moment is imbued with the magic of Dolpo. From the rhythmic sounds of traditional music to the silent grandeur of the Himalayas, every experience is designed to resonate deeply within you.
We are honored to share this journey with you, embracing the spirit of conscious travel and deep connection with nature. Let us embark together on this extraordinary adventure, where the journey itself becomes a timeless tale.
ITINERARY AT GLANCE
Day 1: Aug 25 | Kathmandu
Arrival in Kathmandu and stay at Dwarika’s. Welcome lunch at the courtyard of Dwarika’s. visit at Boudhanath stupa. Dinner at rooftop.
Day 2: Aug 26 | Kathmandu-Nepaljung- Juphal- Kageni
Flight to Nepaljung from Kathmandu. (Approx. 1hr 15 min). Flight to Jhupal. (Approx 35- 40 min). Drive to trek starting point Sulighat. (Approx. 2 hours). Walk to Kageni Village, a resting destination. (Approx. 2/3 hours)
Day 3: Aug 27 | Kageni Village - Jharna camp
Trek from kageni to jharna camp.(Approx. 5/6 hours)
Passing through rivers and villages. Reaching the second camp at Jharna, and rest.
Day 4: Aug 28 | Jharna Camp-Shey Phoksundo
After breakfast commencing the exciting trek to Shey Phoksundo. ( Approx. 7-9 hours). Passing through rocky terrains. Arrive in Shey Phoksundo.
Day 5: Aug 29 | Shey Phoksundo(Rest Day)
Exploring the mesmerizing Phoksundo Lake. Dinner with crisp air and the scent of pine and juniper from nearby forests.
Day 6: Aug 30 | Shey Phoksundo khola camp
Walk to Phoksundo Khola Camp.(Approx. 2/3 hours). Scene viewing from the vantage points of the surrounding panorama. Soothing dinner with the sound of singing Phoksundo River.
Day 7: Aug 31 | Phoksundo Khola camp-Khangla pass (High camp)
Trekking uphill towards Kangla High Camp (Approx. 4/8 hours). Acclimatizing before trekking over Kangla Pass Witnessing the mesmerizing panorama of starlit peaks and Milkey Way.
Day 8: Sep 1 | Khangla camp-Shey Gompa
Trekking to Shey Gompa. ( Approx. 5/7 hours) Opening ceremony happening at Shey Gompa. Arriving at the Campsite near Shey Gompa. Getting a glimpse of festival preparation at Shey Gompa.
Day 9: Sep 2| Shey Festival Day 2
Witnessing the Dance ritual. Attending the shey festival rituals. Exploring the majestic aspect of Dolpo culture.
Day 10: Sep 3 | Shey festival Day 3
Circumambulation of Crytal mountain. Joining in a line, pilgrims chant prayers around the mountain. Savoring the Tibetan cuisine from the festival stalls.
Day 11: Sep 4 | Shey festival Day 4
Enjoying the exhibition of local art, and traditional handicrafts from the festival. Exploring nearby attractions such as monasteries, temples, and scenic landscapes. Last day dinner at Shey Gompa campsite.
Day 12: Sep 5 | Shey Gompa-Phoksundo khola camp
Trekking back to Phoksundo Khola camp. Resting at Phoksundo khola camp. ù
Day 13: Sep 6 | Phoksundo khola camp - Ringmo village (Shey Phoksundo)
Hiking descent and ascent to Ringmo Village. (Approx. 2/3 Hours). Camping at Ringmo village and dinner.
Day 14: Sep 7 | Ringmo Village – Sulighat- Juphal
Trekking downhill from Ringmo village to Sulighat.(Approx. 8 hours). Drive to Juphal. (2 hours ). Our trek concludes upon arriving at Juphal (Hotel Tripura).
Day 15: Sep 8 | Juphal - Nepaljung - Kathmandu
Drive to Juphal Airport. (Approx. 2 hours ). Flight from Juphal to Nepaljung. Another air travel from Nepaljung to Kathmandu. Check in to Dwarka’s. Dinner at the hotel.