Until recently, the mysterious, hidden land of Dolpo — with its sacred sites, crystal-clear Shè-Poksumde Lake, and dramatic landscapes — remained almost unknown to the outside world.
Tucked away in the northwestern region of Nepal, Dolpo is home to scattered settlements at altitudes ranging from 2,300 to 4,300 metres. Breathtaking snow-capped mountain ranges, rising nearly 7,000 metres, encircle the region, making it directly accessible to most visitors only by air and several days of walking.
Introduction
The Upper Dolpo region of Dolpa district lies far beyond the reach of state services and facilities. In terms of healthcare, government presence in the region has always been minimal. Traditionally, local Amchis have provided free healthcare to the people of Dolpo using indigenous herbs.
Born in Dho village of Dolpo Buddha Rural Municipality, Ward No. 1, Amchi Namgyal began studying Sowa Rigpa (the traditional science of healing) at the age of 18. After completing his studies, he returned to his village to practise, researching local herbs, preparing medicines, and treating patients free of charge.
In 2055 BS, he established the first Dolpo Amchi Association, dedicated to providing healthcare services and preserving the Amchi tradition in Dolpa.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the organisation distributed herbal medicines and ran health and environmental awareness programmes. His contributions also include founding Dolpo Sorig Khunphen Men Tsee Khang in 2003 AD (2059 BS).
In 2014 AD (2070 BS), he became President of the Himalayan Amchi Association. He is also the author of the well-known travel guide Dolpo: The Hidden Land.
His impact extends far beyond Dolpo. With followers from many countries, Dolpo Amchi travels internationally to promote Buddhism and Sowa Rigpa, sharing the healing wisdom of his tradition with the wider world.