Phoksundo Lake, nestled in the remote Dolpo region of Nepal, is a true gem of the Himalayas. Situated at an altitude of over 3600 meters, this pristine alpine lake mesmerizes visitors with its crystal-clear turquoise waters and dramatic mountain backdrop. Surrounded by towering peaks and lush pine forests, Phoksundo Lake offers a serene and mystical ambiance that captivates all who venture here. Trekking to Phoksundo Lake is an adventure in itself, leading through rugged terrain, picturesque villages, and ancient monasteries. The journey provides a rare opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich culture and traditions of the Dolpo people, who have inhabited this remote region for centuries. Whether you’re drawn to its natural beauty or cultural heritage, Phoksundo Lake is a destination like no other, offering a truly unforgettable experience in the heart of the Himalayas.
Trip Facts
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Kathmandu
-
Spring and Autumn
-
3,612 meter
-
14
-
Moderate
-
Breakfast and Dinner
Related
Overview
Phoksundo Lake, nestled in the remote Dolpo region of Nepal, is a true gem of the Himalayas. Situated at an altitude of over 3600 meters, this pristine alpine lake mesmerizes visitors with its crystal-clear turquoise waters and dramatic mountain backdrop. Surrounded by towering peaks and lush pine forests, Phoksundo Lake offers a serene and mystical ambiance that captivates all who venture here. Trekking to Phoksundo Lake is an adventure in itself, leading through rugged terrain, picturesque villages, and ancient monasteries. The journey provides a rare opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich culture and traditions of the Dolpo people, who have inhabited this remote region for centuries. Whether you’re drawn to its natural beauty or cultural heritage, Phoksundo Lake is a destination like no other, offering a truly unforgettable experience in the heart of the Himalayas.
Trip Facts
-
Kathmandu
-
Spring and Autumn
-
3,612 meter
-
14
-
Moderate
-
Breakfast and Dinner
Related
Highlights
- Experience authentic culture, heartwarming hospitality, and breathtaking mountain landscapes.
- An adventurous trekking route that goes through pine forests, lovely villages, and follows the beautiful Shey Phoksundo River.
- Although the Shey Phoksundo Lake is located quite far from Kathmandu, we can easily reach it thanks to domestic airplanes.
- A less crowded and unspoiled trail, perfect for both beginners and experienced trekkers.
- Meet and stay with the local Tibetan communities.
- Get to see their lifestyles and culture.
- Explore ancient stupas and monasteries.
- Taste rare yak cheese and yak meat.
- Hike to the Shey Phoksundo viewpoint to see the jaw-dropping bird's eye view of the lake.
- Get to see diverse landscapes and experience different topographies.
Itinerary
Day 1 :
ARRIVAL TO KATHMANDU/ WELCOME TO NEPAL!
Upon arrival, you will be escorted to your hotel by your trek guide. You can explore the vibrant streets of Thamel in the evening. Later, your guide will greet you and brief you about the trek.
Day 2 :
KATHAMNDU TO NEPALGUNJ
Early morning, after having your breakfast, your guide will take you to visit Kathmandu Durbar Square and surrounding areas. After your visit, you will be escorted to the airport to catch a flight to Nepalgunj in the Midwestern region of Nepal. Nepalgunj lies in the Terai region of Nepal and is a major city in Western Nepal. You will spend the night in Nepalgunj to catch the flight to Jufal.
Day 3 :
NEPALGUNJ TO JUPHAL, TREK TO DUNAI
The flight to Juphal is early morning, so you have to get up early to catch the flight. Juphal is the starting point of the Shey Phoksundo Lake trek. It is situated at 8210 ft above sea level. From Juphal, you will start trekking to Dunai. The trek duration is about three hours and follows Thulo Bheri Valley, Kaldhunga, Bheri River, Roop Ghar, and finally to the beautiful village of Dunai, which is also the headquarters of Dolpa district. Dolpa lies at an altitude of 7025 ft, and we will spend the night there.
Day 4 :
TREK TO CHHEPKA VILLAGE
From Dunai, we have to descend down to reach Sulighat by crossing the Bheri River. After 15-20 minutes of hiking from there, we reach the north check post of Shey Phoksundo National Park. Trailing further along the Phoksundo Khola/River and Kageni through the walnut and maple forest, exploring the excellent Tibetan culture, you will reach Chepka village. Chepka village is situated at an altitude of 2660m above sea level. It takes 7-8 hours of trekking to reach Chepka from Dunai. We will spend the night at Chepka.
Day 5 :
TREK TO JHARANA WATERFALL
This is a wonderful day as you will get a sight of the amazing Shey Phoksundo Lake and get to explore the Jharana waterfall. It is one of Nepal's highest waterfalls and offers a thrilling experience. Trekking through the cedar forest will take you to Jharana, allowing you to explore the 1083ft tall waterfall. The spectacular glimpses of mountains and valleys and Shey Phoksundo Lake afar are amazing. It takes around 6-7 hours to reach Jharana waterfall. Overnight at Jharana.
Day 6 :
TREK TO RINGMO VILLAGE
Today, you will explore the Tibetan Ringmo village. You will begin trekking in the morning and reach the beautiful Phoksundo waterfall/Jharana. After that, you will cross over the bridge, and after passing the ranger office, you will reach Ringmo village located at the northern end of the Phoksundo Lake. In the village, you can explore the culture and traditions of the local people and know in depth about their lifestyle and practices. You will spend the day in Ringmo village.
Day 7 :
EXPLORING SACRED PHOKSUNDO LAKE AND TSHOWA GOMPA
Early in the morning, you will explore the beautiful Shey Phoksundo Lake. We will trek to the first and second viewpoints where we can see the three sides of the lake. After that, we will trek down to the village. Then, we will go and visit the Tshowa Gompa monastery. The Bon monastery is around 900 years old and offers a very spiritual ambiance. The jaw-dropping Shey Phoksundo Lake is the main attraction of this day. According to the belief of the Buddhists, it is said there lies an underwater palace under the Shey Phoksundo Lake and thus sacred to the followers. Today also we will spend the day in Ringmo village.
Day 8 :
TREK TO CHHEPKA VILLAGE
After exploring the beauty of Shey Phoksundo Lake, you will trek back to Chepka village via Sulighat and Renji village. It takes around 6-7 hours to reach Chepka village where we will spend the night.
Day 9 :
TREK TO JUPHAL
Trek from Chepka to Juphal, passing through picturesque landscapes and traditional villages. Arrive in Juphal and celebrate the completion of your trek. Overnight stay in Juphal.
Day 10 :
FLY TO NEPALGUNJ AND KATHMANDU
Take a flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj and then connect to a flight back to Kathmandu. Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a leisurely evening in Kathmandu, perhaps shopping for souvenirs or sampling local cuisine.
TRIP COST INCLUDES AND EXCLUDES
COST INCLUDES
- Accommodation: Lodge/Teahouse stays along the trekking route.
- Meals: All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek.
- Transportation: From Kathmandu (or nearest city) to the starting point of the trek, and back.
- Activities: Trekking to Phoksundo Lake, sightseeing, and guided tours.
- Guide: Professional trekking guide for the duration of the trek.
- Porter: Porters to carry luggage during the trek (usually 1 porter for 2 trekkers).
- Permits: Trekking permits (such as TIMS card) and National Park entry permits.
- Equipment: Use of trekking gear and equipment (if necessary).
- Emergency: Arrangement of emergency services if needed.
COST EXCLUDES
- International Airfare: Cost of flights to and from Nepal.
- Nepal Visa Fee: Applicable visa fees for entry into Nepal.
- Personal Expenses: Any additional expenses such as souvenirs, snacks, or personal items.
- Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Expenses for alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks during the trek.
- Tips: Tips for guides, porters, and staff (optional but appreciated).
- Travel Insurance: Travel and rescue insurance (required).
- Extra Activities: Costs for any additional activities or excursions not included in the trek itinerary.
- Medical Expenses: Any medical expenses incurred during the trek.
- Additional Nights: Cost of accommodation and meals for any additional nights beyond the specified duration of the trek.
MAP
