Introduction

Dunai - Headquater of Dolpo 

Dolpa, the largest and one of the least populated of Nepal is situated in the remote northwestern corner of the country bordering with the Tibet. It is least develop, but one of the most pristine and unspoiled area of Nepal. It is famous for its unique intake Tibetan derived culture. It comprises of numerous ancient gompas, stupas, paintings, sculptures, manuscripts, artifact, beautiful landscape, flora and faunas, herbs of high medicinal values.

Phoksundo Lake

Dolpa suffers economically, although it has great potential for tourism. Natural resources would provide economical benefit if it is exploited in a manageable way.

Dolpo (a.k.a. upper Dolpa), which was once a province of western Tibet. After the Chinese took over Tibet, Dolpo is considered as the last enclave of pure Tibetan Culture.  Although Dolpo is culturally and geographically is a world of its own.

 Dolpa region of Nepal is rain shadowed by the Annapurna range blocking off the valuable monsoon rain. The whole of Dolpa is arid, mountainous and steppe likes terrain. Hence, the fertility of the land in this mountainous region is very low. Local people totally depend on seasonal farming, animal husbandry and trade for their livelihood.

Vijer Village

Vijer, village development committee (VDC) is one of the most isolated villages, situated at an altitude of 3,850 meter where the holy mountain Mukporong. People of this village practice Tibetan Buddhism and Bon, an ancient religion. There is two oldest (more than 800 years) Sakya monasteries (now practice Nyigmapa), Nesar and Lang, and famous gompa of Yangston Bompos called Samling monastery which is located on a mountain ridge to the south of Vijer.   

Aims and Objectives:   

The main objectives of the project were to give free and compulsory education, health and sanitation facilities, and preservation of traditional culture and restoration of heritages sides of the Vijer village. Our goal is to provide the upcoming generation with a quality and reliable education, healthy environment and sustainable development through cultural preservation.

The main program of the project:

     1.    Nesar Gompa Restoration (2001-2005)

Renovation of Naser Gompa, improvement of library, full inventory and classification of existing 642 ancient manuscripts. (All information collected has been published in the book by Amy Heller).

Author Dr. Amy Heller with her book

 2.    Shree Mukporong Himal Primary School (2001-2010).

      3.  Khunphen Shogtso Menkhang (Dispensary), 2007 - 2008.

      4.   Stupa (chorten) renovation and painting – 2009 - 2010.

      5.    Rural drinking water supply – 2009 - 2010.

6.  Lang Gompa Hermitage Center – 2010-2012.