The director, Eric Valli, knows the paths winding up to the high peaks of the Himalayas, which the Dolpo caravans lead the yak flocks. Over the years, Valli accompanied many Dolpo villagers on their journeys and learned their language and became a brother, witnessing their suffering and partnering in their joys. Valli possesses an intimate knowledge of this country and it was an inestimable advantage.

From his experience of this other life, Valli wished to make a film as homage to these men, survivors from the past who were not preoccupied with our third millennium.

Himalaya is an observation of a community geographically distant from us. High up where the trees no longer grow, the Dolpopas suffer the same universal dramas and the same longings. They will go so far in search of adventure to finally meet their distant neighbors.

The best memories and the most enriching experiences are the turning points in our lives that are always shared with others, when history becomes human.

Valli's long lasting Dolpo friends were the actors in the film. Valli and the Dolpopas at first regarded the Parisian film crew as strangers. Together throughout the long months of filming, everyone shared the same existence. Everyone considered the film worth doing and gave it their best. This film is a testimony to their friendship.

This is the story of the Dolpo, when old chieftain Tinlé passes the title to his grandson Passang.