The Sowa Rigpa: Dolpo Amchi Tradition in Nepal

Introduction
The gSo-ba Rigpa (Science of Healing), also known as the Amchi tradition, is regarded as one of the ten highest fields of Tibetan higher studies. Originating in Ngari Prefecture (now within the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, West Tibet), this tradition has long been an integral part of the region’s cultural heritage.

During the 8th century, under the reign of the 34th Tibetan religious king, Trisong Detsen, the first medical conference was hosted at Samye Monastery. Nine eminent physicians from different regions were invited. The rGyud-Zhi (Four Medical Treatises), particularly in the Last Tantra (Phyi-ma rGyud), describes therapeutic methods from Dolpo, including bloodletting and moxibustion. It specifically highlights contributions from Dolpo scholars such as Khul Moru Tse and Kungawa, who exchanged medical knowledge with other physicians and transmitted it to the royal court physician, Yuthog Yonten Gonpo the Elder, in the 8th century.

Transmission of the Amchi Tradition
Over centuries, the Amchi tradition has been preserved through the dedication of generations of lama-amchis across the trans-Himalayan region—from the Ngari kings to the Malla dynasty in Jumla, King Amapal of Lo-Mustang, and the Ranag King of Dolpo. The knowledge has been passed down to younger generations, training them as novice amchis.

In Dolpo’s remote and harsh mountain ecosystems, the tradition continues today. More than 63 senior amchis actively provide medical teaching and health care services. Most are lama-amchis, either household priests or ordained monks, who run traditional health centers from family monasteries or temples.

Role of Monasteries
Monasteries in Dolpo serve not only as centers for religious rites but also as schools of Sowa Rigpa, native language and culture, and local health care. Each village has a gonpa (monastery) that plays a vital role in cultural preservation, social life, and environmental conservation.

Medicinal Practices and Challenges
Medicinal plants available locally are used by amchis to treat patients. However, sourcing lowland plants and spices from urban markets has become increasingly difficult and costly. Traditionally, amchis do not demand fees for their services. Patients may offer barley, wheat, butter, or small contributions. Wealthier families may gift livestock or even gold and silver. Poor patients are treated with compassion and without charge, in line with the spirit of bodhicitta.

This model of exchange, based on socio-economic conditions, is widespread in the Himalayas, including Nepal, Sikkim, India, Bhutan, Ladakh, Mongolia, and Tibet. However, because amchis receive no consistent fees, the tradition faces decline. Many youths, discouraged by its limited financial prospects, seek other occupations. This threatens the sustainability of the Amchi system and the livelihoods of those who practice it.

Efforts of Revitalization
To preserve and revitalize Sowa Rigpa, recognition and support from the Government of Nepal are essential, including the establishment of formal institutions for study and practice. Such initiatives would provide younger generations with opportunities to sustain their traditions in their home regions.

Dolpo Mentseekhang
On May 5, 1998, the first Sowa Rigpa conference in Dolpo was held at Ribo Bumpa Monastery, with 63 senior amchis from Upper Dolpo in attendance. Community leaders and lamas also participated. The event was chaired by Lama Namgyal and Geshe Wangyal of Phoksumdo. The chief guest, Komang Tulku Takla Tsewang Rinpoche, bestowed Medicine Buddha empowerments and teachings. The conference included training in diagnostic methods such as tongue and urine analysis, pulse reading, and case history—essential elements of Amchi practice.

Following this, Dolpo Mentseekhang (Dolpo Lama Amchi Medical Center) was established on June 15, 2002, with official registration on July 8, 2003. Its aims include:

• Promoting health and hygiene among local communities.

• Training novice amchis in both theoretical and practical aspects of Sowa Rigpa.

• Conserving cultural heritage and the Himalayan environment.

• Providing free healthcare in areas where no other facilities exist.

The center also supports the cultivation of Himalayan medicinal plants and preserves local cultural practices, including mask dances and ritual healing traditions.

Challenges and Support
Despite its achievements, Dolpo Mentseekhang faces challenges: scarcity of medicinal plants, harsh climate, lack of sustainable funding, and migration of youth. In 2006, the center received the Abraham Conservation Award for its contribution to conservation and sustainable development. International support, including from WWF Nepal and the UNESCO People and Plants Initiative, has been instrumental.

The center operates at 4,100 meters, within Shey Phoksundo National Park, the largest national park in Nepal. It provides free treatment to around 1,500 patients annually, relying largely on locally sourced medicines. However, funding shortages have threatened its survival, with near-closure in 2013. Occasional contributions from donors such as Khadro Pema Chodron and Khadro Rinpoche have sustained operations, but a long-term financial model is urgently needed.

Community Health Camps and Outreach
Dolpo Mentseekhang has organized numerous health camps and training sessions, both in Dolpo and in Kathmandu, often treating hundreds of patients at once. These have combined traditional Amchi medicine with modern medical practices. The organization has also played a vital role in disaster relief, such as during the 2015 earthquake.

Future Directions
For this tradition to survive, sustainable funding, government recognition, and integration into broader healthcare systems are essential. The Dolpo Mentseekhang continues to strive toward this vision, serving as both a health center and an institution for preserving and teaching Sowa Rigpa. Its mission is rooted in compassion, service, and the aspiration to uphold the wisdom of the Medicine Buddha for the well-being of future generations.