Shey Festival Trek

Overview

Shey-crystal Mountain (Shelri Dugdra) and Shey Gompa are one of the most sacred Himalayan pilgrimages of Nepal. It has a legendary connection to Buddhism. It is located north of the Phoksundo Lake in Upper Dolpo with an elevation of 4160m from sea level. Shey-Crystal Mountain is the spiritual heart of Dolpo. Being the spiritual heart of Dolpo the trek into Shey Gompa is a revered and sacred pilgrimage. His immense holiness Tuptop Singe Yeshe had enlightened in Shey-Gonpa. The Crystal Mountain (Shelri Dugdra) is the major panoramic pilgrimage of Shey gompa. The crystal mountain (Shelri Dugdra) is also known as the younger brother of Mt. Kailash.

Shey Festival commences every 12 years Tibetan lunar calendar. In the year of Dragon (Druglho), the Shey Festival takes place in Shey Gompa Upper Dolpo. Shey Festival happens in the twelve-year cycle in the Buddhist calendar each year is represented by a different animal and each year with the importance of twelve different pilgrimages, which include Mt. Kailash in Tibet, Swayambhunath in Kathmandu, Shey Gompa in Dolpo, and many other places in the world. The last time the Shey Festival happened was in 2012 and the next festival will take place in Shey Gompa in 2024.

Himalayan Companion's Shey Festival Trek 2024 starts with a decent flight to Juphal Dolpa from the western hub city of Nepalgunj. Once you arrive in Juphal our crews are there to welcome you at the airport. Then you begin either by trek (2.30 hours by walking) or by Jeep (1 hour) to Dunai. From Dunai following the Thulibheri River up to Lasicap along the Byasgad, Tarakot, and Yelakot. From Lasicap the trail switches northward and follows the Tarap Khola to Laini, Nawarpani, and Dho Tarap. After Dho Tarap the trail leads westward and crosses the Khyung La (5143m) pass and Sela Mukchuri La(5100m)  to Shey Gompa. In Shey Gompa, you will be staying 4 days and witnessing many cultural activities, receiving a blessing from the great Lamas. Then after crossing the Kang La pass (5360m) you will descend to Phoksundo Lake and Rigmo village. The final part of the trek descends from Phoksundo to Suligad along the Rechi, Chhepka, and Kageni, and the trek ends at Juphal.