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Dovan: An Important Stopover along ABC Trail

Introduction

Dovan is a small village in the foothills of mountains on the trek route of Annapurna Base Camp. It stands at an elevation of around 2,505 meters. It is also known as an important resting place between Bamboo and Himalaya. It is where many trekkers decide to pause and relax before ascending to higher camps like Deurali or Machhapuchhre Base Camp.

Besides, Dovan is encircled with a thick rhododendron, bamboo, and oak forest. Such a natural setting provides a cool and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for relaxation after climbing steeply. The village is peaceful and less crowded compared to villages at lower elevations, offering trekkers with peaceful accommodation facilities.

Similarly,  Dovan is located near the Modi Khola river. The sound of water runs in the background as trekkers trek towards the village. This natural element heightens the trekking experience as well as brings the much-needed relief.

Unlike larger villages such as Chhomrong or Ghandruk, Dovan has simple and cozy tea houses and lodges. These provide hot food, hot showers, and warm rooms, usually for a small additional fee. The ease of facilities and cleanliness are the reasons this is a favorite stopping point.

In addition, Dovan's moderate elevation makes it a perfect acclimatization stop. Trekkers use this stop to acclimatize prior to further ascent. Its location along the trail makes it a favorite rest stop.

In summary, Dovan is a quiet, forested village at 2,505 meters. It offers rest, scenery, and basic comfort along the Annapurna trek. Its calm atmosphere and location between Bamboo and Himalaya make it a middle rest stop for trekkers.

Geography and Location 

Dovan is located in Modi Khola valley, between villages of Bamboo and Himalaya. It is about 2,505 meters above sea level. The village is surrounded by a thick forest of bamboo, oak, and rhododendron. Dense forests create a green, fertile environment all year round.

Besides this, Dovan is located near the Modi River, which runs through a deep gorge at the level below the village. The river valley creates a humid and cool microclimate. This climate supports a variety of flora and fauna, including Himalayan birds like the monal and snow pigeon.

Similarly, the terrain around Dovan is hilly and rocky. Sloping farming with terracing on the hillsides provides a sense of human touch to the landscape. Stone walls and narrow trackways connect houses and lodges scattered on the hillside.

Also, there is climatic variation from lower settlements because of Dovan's elevation. It is mild during summer and cold during winter with occasional snowfall. Terrain and elevation require the trekker to be ready for changing weather.

In addition, Dovan is on the main trekking path to Annapurna Base Camp. It is an important place to rest before the climb to higher camps like Deurali (3,230m) and Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m). The site offers nice view of the surrounding peaks.

In summary, Dovan is a remote village in a valley of a forest at an altitude of 2,505 meters. Its proximity to the Modi River and rugged terrain render it a serene and picturesque rest stop. The fact that the village lies on the popular trekking route enhances its importance to trekkers. 

Accessibility

Dovan can only be accessed on foot via Bamboo from Chhomrong and Sinuwa. Like much of the villages of the Annapurna Base Camp trek, there are no motor vehicles or roads that reach out to Dovan. Trekkers arrive by hiking from Bamboo down or Himalaya up. The trekker's route is well traveled and well marked.

Actually, the walk between Bamboo and Dovan is a uniform uphill walk in bamboo and rhododendron forests. The walk measures around 1 to 2 hours depending on one's fitness and weather conditions. Wooden suspension bridges and stone trails enable trekkers to move over rivers and steep slopes safely.

Similarly, the trek from Dovan to Himalaya is on via wooded slopes. It is moderately steep but well-trodden. During monsoon season, the track will be muddy and slippery. Sufficient care and sturdy shoes are essential for walkers.

Unlike developed towns like Ghorepani, Dovan receives no motor traffic. Goods and supplies are carried by porters, mules, or yaks. This limits the village size and preserves its natural atmosphere.

In the event of emergencies, trekkers have to walk down to Bamboo or Chhomrong to access medical assistance. Helicopter rescue is feasible but subject to clear skies and available landing areas, of which there are few in this forested valley.

Even though far from civilization, Dovan is simple to access by trekking from either side on the Annapurna Base Camp trail. The well-trodden trail, suspension bridges, and rest stops provide ease of access for well-prepared trekkers.

Finally, Dovan is reachable by foot via a clear, forest trail. No roads come to spoil its tranquility. Thus, Dovan is the perfect place to rest for trekkers who want nature and relaxation between Bamboo and Himalaya.

Facilities

Dovan has basic but essential facilities for trekkers along the Annapurna Base Camp trek. The village has several tea houses and lodges with basic accommodation and hot meals. Rooms typically comprise wooden beds, mattresses, and warm blankets.

Actually, most of the lodges here in Dovan serve traditional Nepali dishes such as dal bhat, noodles, and momos. Hot tea, coffee, and soup are also available. The food is fresh and nutritious, ideal for refueling after climbing.

Also, the majority of the lodges at Dovan offer hot showers but usually for an additional fee. Showers are solar-heated or gas-heated, which are restricted depending on weather and fuel. Solar panels generate electricity primarily.

In fact, there are no shops or ATMs in Dovan, as compared to more larger villages in Annapurna region like Ghandruk. All supplies must be brought by trekkers from lower points like Chhomrong or Bamboo. Mobile phone signals are bad, and Wi-Fi is mostly unavailable or not reliable.

Likewise, toilets in Dovan lodge are mostly shared and basic, at times squat type. Western toilets are found in some of the lodges but in limited numbers. Boiled or filtered drinking water is found in most locations. Bottled water is sold but expensive at this altitude.

Additionally, Dovan does not have a hospital. Lodge owners provide basic first aid, if anything, but serious illness means descending to Chhomrong or Pokhara. Emergency helicopter rescue can be done but is weather-dependent.

In conclusion, Dovan provides simple facilities in the form of food, hot shelter, and water. Simple as they are, they prove sufficient for the comfort and security of trekkers. The peaceful atmosphere and clean lodges make Dovan a good resting place on the Annapurna trek.

Major Attractions

Dovan is a scenic village nestles in the thick forest of the Annapurna Conservation Area. Nature surrounding the village is the only tourist destination of the village. Thick bamboo and rhododendron forests surround the village, creating a calm, green environment.

Moreover, Dovan is close to the Modi Khola river, whose flowing water gives a soothing background score to the trek. The valley of the river offers a bird's-eye view of steep cliffs and green forests, juxtaposed with the snow-white summits visible from high vantage points.

Likewise, the surrounding mountains like Annapurna South (7,219m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), and Hiunchuli (6,441m) predominate the horizon. One can see these towering peaks from Dovan behind the gaps in the forest cover, particularly on a clear day.

In contrast to more market-oriented villages, Dovan remains a peaceful and pristine place. Its distance makes it possible for trekkers to be alone and experience the quiet of nature without crowds. The combination of forest noises, mountain scenery, and running river provides an unforgettable atmosphere.

Also, birdwatchers are attracted to Dovan because of the variety of Himalayan birds found there in the forests. The place has birds such as the resplendent Himalayan monal and other pheasants, and it is a birdwatching paradise in miniature form.

In conclusion, the main attractions of Dovan are its high concentration of forests, proximity to a river, scenic views of mountains, and abundance of birds. All these natural attractions make it a serene and lovely spot on the Annapurna Base Camp trek that tourists enjoy for peace and nature.

Major Activities to Do

Dovan offers trekkers various relaxing and nature-focused activities. The chief activity is resting and recuperating from ascending. Dovan is also a usual stop that numerous trekkers use to relax prior to traveling to higher camps like Deurali or Machhapuchhre Base Camp.

Besides that, short excursions into nature along Dovan are all the rage. Trekkers hike out along trails that wind through groves of bamboo, rhododendron, and oak. The excursions are especially beautiful during spring when the groves burst with riotous colors.

Birdwatching is also a favorite pastime here in Dovan. Forests around Dovan are inhabited by Himalayan monals, pheasants, and other native bird species. Peaceful observers often get a glimpse of these colorful species peeking through the trees.

Likewise, photography in Dovan is a delightful activity. With dense forest, Modi River running through it, and distant ranges, one has varied photo opportunities. Natural light is at its best during early morning and late evening.

Unlike populated villages in Annapurna region, Dovan is peaceful and serene. Trekkers are known to spend more time writing journals, meditating, or simply doing nothing else but enjoying the mountain air. River and forest noises soothingly enhance the serene experience.

In addition, a few lodges offer cultural experiences where one can learn about Gurung culture and way of life. These are enriching moments for the trekking experience and help individuals connect with local culture.

In conclusion, Dovan offers relaxation, forest strolls, birdwatching, photography, and learning about culture. Its peaceful atmosphere makes it a great place to recharge both physically and mentally while on the Annapurna Base Camp trek.

Dovan is popular among trekkers because it is peaceful and natural in environment. It rises to about 2,600 meters and is a peaceful stop under forest cover and soothing gurgle of the Modi Khola river. Dovan is highly recommended as a resting spot before more trekking by most trekkers.

Besides, Dovan's cooler climate and shady atmosphere provide a pleasant respite from open trails. Unlike more touristy villages, Dovan is quiet and less crowded. Trekkers relish the chance to sit back and unwind in nature without noise and distractions.

Likewise, the village Dovan position is a strategic stopping place. Trekkers acclimatize and prepare for the next climb to higher camps such as Deurali and Machhapuchhre Base Camp by utilizing Dovan. The lodges provide basic comfort and warm food, making the stop convenient.

Contrary to other larger and more commercialized villages, Dovan features a real mountain ambience. It has no roads and no cars to preserve the natural and serene ambiance. This renders it attractive to trekkers who are looking for isolation and real experiences.

Additionally, the abundant wildlife and birdlife around Dovan serve to make it attractive. Individuals visit to spot Himalayan monals and birds of all hues in the dense forests. This renders Dovan popular among nature lovers and photographers.

In summary, Dovan is famous because of its peaceful surroundings, chilly climate, convenient location, natural ambiance, and rich wildlife. All these factors combine to make it a favorite among the Annapurna Base Camp trek.

Dovan has a couple of well-known lodges for trekkers on the Annapurna Base Camp trek. They offer basic but good rooms and hot meals to help in resting and rejuvenation.

Actually, Tip Top Lodge is popular, with tidy rooms and friendly atmosphere. The lodge provides warm beds, hot showers, and charging facilities. Trekkers enjoy its hospitable staff and good food, including local dal bhat and momos.

Likewise, just as popular lodge in Dovan is Hotel Snow Land with travelers. It offers comfortable rooms, simple decor, and a quiet environment. Nutritious meals are offered at the lodge that restore the energy for the next day's trek.

Another lodge in Dovan to be noted is Adventure Lodge, which is well-known because of cleanliness and effective service. It offers hot water showers, warm blankets, and a peaceful environment perfect for relaxation.

In fact, Dovan lacks numerous lodge alternatives to large villages but has the few ones focusing on good service. Electricity in the majority of the lodges is often from the sun. Wi-Fi internet is rarely accessible or highly limited.

In addition, the lodges offer boiled or filtered drinking water and phone and camera charging points at an additional cost. Hot showers usually come at an added cost but are highly valued after a long hiking day.

In summary, Tip Top Lodge, Hotel Snow Land, and Adventure Lodge are the main lodges in Dovan. They provide comfort, good food, and hospitality. These lodges provide basic amenities that make Dovan a comfortable stay during the Annapurna Base Camp trek.

Lodges in Dovan

  • Dovan Guest House & Restaurant
  • Annapurna Approach Adventure Lodge & Restaurant
  • Tip Top Lodge & Restaurant
  • Snow Land Lodge & Restaurant
  • Destination ABC Lodge & Restaurant
Author
Krishna Thapa
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Art representing various natural and cultutal heritages of Nepal