Legend has it that the revered Buddhist saint, Guru Rimpoche, who spread Tibetan Buddhism throughout the Himalayas, discovered this ‘beyul’ or hidden land over 1700 years ago. The relative inaccessibility and remoteness of Dolpo and Mustang regions has added to its intrigue and mystery. We pass through ‘dzongs’, fortified untouched villages, in Dolpo where you will be overwhelmed by the hospitality of villagers who reside in some of the highest altitude places on Earth. Opportunities to experience ancient monasteries and soak up incredible scenery as we make our way to the majestic Phoksundo Lake cannot be underestimated. It is a great honour to visit Shey Gompa, the spiritual heart of inner Dolpo located below Crystal Mountain and to cleanse the spirit with a ‘kora’, pilgrim’s circuit encompassing the mountain and the famed monastery. Challenge yourself with the high passes of Kang La (5420m), Saldang La (5010m) and Ma La (5036m) as we make our journey through the alpine meadows of Upper Dolpo with its vibrant Bhoriya culture and the contrasting desert-like conditions experienced by the Thakkali in Mustang. Marvel at the unique cultures and differences between nomadic groups in Dolpo and Mustang such as Lopas in Mustang who migrated from Tibet.