The Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek – 12 Days takes you into the remote Dolpo region of western Nepal, where one of the country's most beautiful Himalayan lakes lies surrounded by rugged mountains and traditional villages. Known for its remarkable turquoise-blue water, dramatic cliffs and peaceful setting, Phoksundo Lake is a wonderful destination for travelers who want to explore Nepal beyond the popular trekking routes.
Situated at approximately 3,611 metres above sea level within Shey Phoksundo National Park, the lake is famous for its striking colours, which appear to change with the sunlight. Unlike the busier trekking regions of Everest and Annapurna, the Phoksundo Lake Trek offers a quieter journey through remote valleys, beautiful forests and traditional mountain communities.
Your 12-day adventure begins in Kathmandu with a cultural sightseeing tour before flying to Nepalgunj, the gateway to western Nepal. From Nepalgunj, a scenic mountain flight takes you to Juphal, where the trek begins.
The trail follows the beautiful Suli Gad Valley, passing through Dunai, Chhepka and Chunuwar (Jharana Hotel). Along the way, you will cross suspension bridges, walk through forests and small settlements, and enjoy views of rivers, waterfalls and the surrounding mountain landscapes.
One of the most memorable sights along the route is Phoksundo Waterfall, where water cascades down the cliffs below the lake. Continuing towards Ringmo Village, you will catch your first glimpse of the brilliant turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake, a special moment after several days of trekking.
Reaching Phoksundo Lake is the highlight of this journey. Its clear turquoise water, surrounded by steep cliffs and peaceful Himalayan scenery, makes it one of the most remarkable natural attractions in western Nepal.
Our itinerary includes two nights in Ringmo Village, giving you time to enjoy the lake without rushing. You can explore accessible lakeside trails, visit nearby viewpoints and discover the traditional lifestyle of the local community.
Ringmo is known for its Tibetan-influenced culture and strong connection to the ancient Bon spiritual tradition. During your stay, you can visit Tshowa Gompa, a traditional Bon monastery near the lake, and learn about the local customs, religious practices and cultural heritage of Dolpo.
The Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek is considered a moderate Himalayan trek, suitable for active travelers with reasonable fitness and good preparation. The route does not cross a major high mountain pass or require technical climbing, but the remote location, uneven trails and steep uphill and downhill sections make it a rewarding physical challenge.
Most trekking days involve approximately four to seven hours of walking, while some return days can take longer. As the trail reaches approximately 3,611 metres at Phoksundo Lake, gradual ascent and awareness of altitude-related symptoms are important.
Accommodation during the trek is in simple local teahouses and mountain lodges. Our 12-day itinerary includes time to explore the lake and a reserve day for possible weather-related flight delays. As travel in Dolpo depends on mountain conditions, flexibility is an important part of the experience.
For travelers who would like to explore deeper into this fascinating Himalayan region, Himalayan Dream Team also organizes the Upper Dolpo Trek, a longer and more demanding adventure through remote valleys, traditional villages, monasteries and high mountain passes.
You can also extend your Nepal holiday with a Bardia National Park Jungle Safari. Located in western Nepal, Bardia offers opportunities to explore the lowland forests, enjoy guided wildlife activities and discover another side of Nepal's natural beauty.
At Himalayan Dream Team Treks & Tours, we believe a memorable journey is about more than reaching a beautiful destination. It is also about the people you meet, the places you discover and the experiences you share along the way.
As a Nepal-based trekking company, we arrange your Shey Phoksundo Lake adventure with experienced local guides, domestic flights, required trekking permits, accommodation and personal support throughout the journey. Our team understands the challenges of traveling in remote mountain regions and plans each journey with care, realistic expectations and flexibility.
Whether you are traveling solo, as a couple or with a small group, we can help arrange a private Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek according to your interests, available time and current trekking permit requirements.
Join Himalayan Dream Team to discover the beauty of Phoksundo Lake, experience the cultural traditions of Dolpo and create wonderful memories in one of Nepal's most peaceful Himalayan regions.
| Day | Activity | Accommodation |
|---|---|---|
| 01 | Arrival in Kathmandu and hotel transfer | Hotel in Kathmandu |
| 02 | Kathmandu sightseeing and flight to Nepalgunj | Hotel in Nepalgunj |
| 03 | Fly to Juphal and trek to Dunai (2,140 m) | Teahouse in Dunai |
| 04 | Trek from Dunai to Chhepka (2,670 m) | Teahouse in Chhepka |
| 05 | Trek from Chhepka to Jharana Hotel (3,100 m) | Basic Lodge |
| 06 | Trek to Ringmo Village and Phoksundo Lake (3,611 m) | Teahouse in Ringmo |
| 07 | Explore Phoksundo Lake, Tshowa Gompa and Ringmo Village | Teahouse in Ringmo |
| 08 | Trek from Ringmo to Chhepka | Teahouse in Chhepka |
| 09 | Trek from Chhepka to Juphal | Basic Lodge in Juphal |
| 10 | Fly from Juphal to Nepalgunj and Kathmandu | Hotel in Kathmandu |
| 11 | Reserve day for flight delays or optional Kathmandu sightseeing | Hotel in Kathmandu |
| 12 | Transfer to Kathmandu International Airport for final departure | — |
The best time for the Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is generally favorable for trekking. April, May and October are particularly recommended for beautiful lake views, pleasant walking conditions and clear mountain scenery.
Located in Nepal's remote Dolpo region, Phoksundo Lake experiences a partly rain-shadow climate. Although trekking is possible in different seasons, weather conditions, trail accessibility and flights to Juphal can vary throughout the year.
| Season | Months | Trekking Conditions | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | March–May | Mild days, blooming forests and beautiful scenery; colder in early spring. | Excellent |
| Summer / Monsoon | June–August | Green landscapes and fewer trekkers, but wet lower trails and possible flight delays. | Possible with flexibility |
| Autumn | September–November | Generally clear skies, excellent visibility and beautiful lake views; colder in November. | Excellent |
| Winter | December–February | Very cold, with possible snow, icy trails and limited teahouse services. | Challenging |
At Himalayan Dream Team, we particularly recommend April, May and October for the 12-day Phoksundo Lake Trek. Spring is ideal for colorful forests and pleasant walking weather, while October often offers the clearest views of the lake and surrounding mountains. As flights to Juphal are weather-dependent, we recommend keeping a reserve day in your travel plans.
The Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek is a moderate trek, suitable for active beginners and experienced hikers with reasonable fitness. The route does not involve technical climbing or crossing high mountain passes, but the remote location, steep sections and several hours of daily walking require good preparation.
| Trek Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Difficulty Level | Moderate |
| Maximum Elevation | 3,611 m (11,847 ft) at Phoksundo Lake |
| Daily Walking Hours | Approximately 4–7 hours on most trekking days |
| Trail Conditions | Forest paths, rocky trails, suspension bridges and steep uphill and downhill sections |
| Fitness Required | Reasonable fitness and ability to walk several hours on uneven terrain |
| Previous Experience | Helpful but not essential for well-prepared beginners |
| Altitude Considerations | Altitude sickness is possible above 2,500 m; gradual ascent and monitoring symptoms are important |
| Preparation | Regular walking, hill hiking, stair climbing and cardiovascular exercise before departure |
At Himalayan Dream Team, we recommend preparing with regular walks and hill hikes before your journey. Our experienced local guides help you maintain a comfortable pace and monitor your well-being throughout the trek. If you are new to trekking or prefer shorter walking days, we can discuss a customized itinerary with additional trekking days.
During the 12-day Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek, you will stay in comfortable hotels in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj and simple local teahouses or guesthouses along the trekking route. As Dolpo is a remote Himalayan region, accommodation is basic, especially in smaller villages. However, staying in local lodges offers a wonderful opportunity to experience traditional mountain hospitality and daily life in western Nepal.
| Category | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Kathmandu & Nepalgunj | Comfortable hotels with private bathrooms and breakfast. |
| Mountain Accommodation | Simple local teahouses, lodges and guesthouses in Dunai, Chhepka, Chunuwar (Jharana Hotel), Ringmo and Juphal, subject to availability. |
| Rooms & Bathrooms | Basic rooms, usually twin-sharing, with simple bedding. Shared toilets are common, and hot showers may not be available. |
| Meals During Trek | Breakfast, lunch and dinner, with dishes such as dal bhat, rice, potatoes, noodles, soup, eggs and local bread, depending on availability. |
| Vegetarian & Special Diets | Vegetarian meals are generally available. Please inform us in advance about food allergies or special dietary needs, as choices are limited in remote villages. |
| Drinking Water | Boiled water may be purchased at lodges. We recommend carrying a reusable water bottle and a reliable water purification method. |
| Electricity & Charging | Electricity and charging facilities may be limited or unavailable. Bring a fully charged power bank. |
At Himalayan Dream Team, we arrange suitable local accommodation along the route and recommend bringing a warm sleeping bag, personal toiletries and essential trekking supplies. Facilities may be simple, but the peaceful surroundings and warm hospitality of the Dolpo communities are part of what makes this journey so special.
The 12-day Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek takes you into the remote Dolpo region of western Nepal. The journey begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, followed by a scenic mountain flight to Juphal, the starting point of the trek. Visitors also need the appropriate trekking and national park permits, which Himalayan Dream Team arranges according to the itinerary and current regulations.
| Permit / Transportation | Details |
|---|---|
| National Park Entry Permit | Required for Shey Phoksundo National Park. The published entry fee is NPR 3,000 for foreign nationals and NPR 1,500 for SAARC nationals. |
| Restricted Area Permit | Required where the trekking route enters designated restricted areas of Dolpo. The applicable permit and fee depend on the exact route and current government regulations. |
| Kathmandu to Nepalgunj | Domestic flight of approximately 1 hour, followed by an overnight hotel stay in Nepalgunj. |
| Nepalgunj to Juphal | Scenic mountain flight of approximately 30–40 minutes, subject to weather conditions and flight schedules. |
| Trekking Route | Juphal – Dunai – Chhepka – Chunuwar (Jharana Hotel) – Ringmo – Phoksundo Lake, returning along the same route. |
| Return Transportation | Flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj, followed by a connecting flight to Kathmandu, subject to availability and weather. |
| Flight Delays | Mountain flights may be delayed or cancelled due to poor visibility or unfavorable weather. Day 11 is reserved for unexpected delays. |
Flights to Juphal depend heavily on mountain weather, so flexibility is important when planning your journey. At Himalayan Dream Team, we coordinate domestic flights, required permits and trekking arrangements to help make your journey as smooth as possible. We recommend allowing additional flexibility before your international departure, as flight delays can occasionally last longer than one day.
Understanding the overnight elevations on the Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek helps you prepare for the changing altitude during your journey through Nepal's Dolpo region. The table below shows where you will stay each night, from Kathmandu and Nepalgunj to the beautiful Phoksundo Lake at approximately 3,611 metres.
| Day | Overnight Location | Sleeping Altitude |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Kathmandu | 1,335 m |
| Day 2 | Nepalgunj | 150 m |
| Day 3 | Dunai | 2,140 m |
| Day 4 | Chhepka | 2,670 m |
| Day 5 | Chunuwar / Jharana Hotel | 3,100 m |
| Day 6 | Ringmo / Phoksundo Lake | 3,611 m |
| Day 7 | Ringmo / Phoksundo Lake | 3,611 m |
| Day 8 | Chhepka | 2,670 m |
| Day 9 | Juphal | 2,475 m |
| Day 10 | Kathmandu | 1,335 m |
| Day 11 | Kathmandu | 1,335 m |
| Day 12 | Departure from Kathmandu | 1,335 m* |
Note: Elevations are approximate. Day 12 shows the departure location rather than an overnight stay. The table represents sleeping altitudes, not the highest elevation reached during each day's walk.
Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Himalayan Dream Team will greet you and transfer you to your hotel by private vehicle.
After check-in, you can relax or explore the lively streets of Thamel, with its local shops, restaurants and traditional markets.
In the evening, meet your trekking guide for a short briefing about the Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek, including domestic flights, trekking conditions and final preparations. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional Nepali welcome dinner, a lovely way to begin your Himalayan adventure.
After breakfast at your hotel, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu, discovering some of Nepal's remarkable cultural and spiritual heritage. Depending on the afternoon flight schedule, we visit selected UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu.
Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple): Begin with a visit to this ancient Buddhist stupa overlooking Kathmandu Valley. Its colorful prayer flags, traditional shrines and beautiful valley views make it one of Kathmandu's most memorable cultural landmarks.
Kathmandu Durbar Square: Continue to the historic royal square, where traditional Newari architecture, beautifully carved wooden windows, temples and old palace courtyards reflect the rich history of Kathmandu.
Later, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your domestic flight to Nepalgunj (55-65 minutes), the gateway to the remote Dolpo region of western Nepal. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and prepare for tomorrow's early morning mountain flight to Juphal, where your Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek begins.
Today, our journey into the remote Dolpo region begins with an early morning mountain flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal (30-40 minutes). Weather permitting, the flight offers impressive views of the rugged hills, deep valleys and scattered settlements of western Nepal.
After landing at Juphal Airport, meet the local trekking support team and begin your first walk towards Dunai. The trail descends through terraced farmland and traditional villages before joining the beautiful Thuli Bheri River valley.
Dunai is the administrative centre of Dolpa district and an important meeting place for local communities. After checking into your teahouse, you can explore the small town and enjoy your first evening in the mountains.
After breakfast, we leave Dunai and follow the Thuli Bheri River towards the entrance of Shey Phoksundo National Park. From here, the trail enters the beautiful Suli Gad Valley, following the river upstream through forests and small mountain settlements.
Along the way, we cross suspension bridges, walk beside flowing streams and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of western Nepal. The trail includes gradual climbs and descents, with the landscape becoming greener and more remote as we continue towards Chhepka.
After approximately six to seven hours of trekking, we arrive at Chhepka, a small village surrounded by forested hills. Spend the evening relaxing at a local teahouse and enjoying the hospitality of the Dolpo region.
After breakfast, continue trekking through the beautiful Suli Gad Valley towards Chunuwar, also known as the Jharana Hotel area. The trail follows the river through peaceful forests, crossing several wooden and suspension bridges along the way.
As we gradually gain altitude, the valley becomes narrower and the surrounding hills more dramatic. We pass small settlements and enjoy views of the river flowing between steep mountain slopes.
By afternoon, we reach Chunuwar, where we spend the night in a simple mountain lodge. This is our final overnight stop before reaching the spectacular turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake tomorrow.
Today is one of the most memorable days of the Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek as we make our way towards the beautiful turquoise lake. After breakfast, the trail climbs steadily from Chunuwar through forested hillsides, offering increasingly impressive views of the surrounding landscape.
Along the way, we reach viewpoints overlooking the spectacular Phoksundo Waterfall, where water cascades down the steep cliffs below the lake. Continuing uphill, we soon catch our first glimpse of the remarkable blue waters of Phoksundo Lake.
We then walk to Ringmo Village, a traditional settlement known for its stone houses, prayer flags and strong connection to the Bon spiritual tradition. After settling into our teahouse, enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Shey Phoksundo National Park and the unforgettable beauty of the lake.
*The lake elevation is approximately 3,611 m. Some trail viewpoints may be higher; confirm the exact maximum with your local guide before entering it as a precise figure.
Today is a relaxing exploration and acclimatization day at Phoksundo Lake. After breakfast, enjoy a gentle walk along accessible sections of the lakeshore, where the remarkable turquoise water contrasts beautifully with the surrounding cliffs and mountains.
We also visit Tshowa Gompa, a traditional Bon monastery near the lake, and explore Ringmo Village. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn about the spiritual traditions, local culture and everyday life of the people of Dolpo.
The afternoon is free to relax, take photographs and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere beside the lake. Spending a second night at Ringmo also allows additional time to adjust to the altitude before beginning our return journey.
After breakfast, we say goodbye to beautiful Phoksundo Lake and begin our return trek towards Chhepka. The trail descends past the waterfall viewpoints and follows the familiar route through the dramatic landscapes of Shey Phoksundo National Park.
As we lose altitude, the rugged mountain scenery gradually changes to greener hillsides and forests. We pass through the Chunuwar area, cross several bridges and continue downstream beside the Suli Gad River.
Although much of today's walk is downhill, it is a relatively long trekking day, so we maintain a comfortable pace and take regular breaks. By late afternoon or early evening, we reach Chhepka and settle into our local teahouse.
Today is our final trekking day in the beautiful Dolpo region. After an early breakfast, we follow the Suli Gad River downstream, passing familiar forests, small settlements and suspension bridges.
The trail gradually leads us back towards Dunai, where we can stop for lunch before continuing towards Juphal. From Dunai, the route climbs through terraced fields and traditional villages towards the airport settlement.
After a long but rewarding day, we arrive in Juphal and check into a basic local lodge. Enjoy your final evening with the trekking team and reflect on the wonderful memories of Phoksundo Lake, Ringmo Village and the remote landscapes of western Nepal.
After breakfast, we transfer to Juphal Airport for our return flight to Nepalgunj (30-40 minutes). The short mountain flight offers a final opportunity to enjoy the beautiful hills and valleys of western Nepal from above.
Upon arrival in Nepalgunj, we connect with our onward flight to Kathmandu (55-65 minutes), subject to flight schedules and weather conditions. A Himalayan Dream Team representative will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel.
The remainder of the day is free to relax after your journey through Dolpo. Flights from Juphal are weather-dependent, so schedules may occasionally change. For this reason, the following day is reserved for possible delays.
Free day / optional sightseeing
Today is kept as a contingency day because flights between Juphal and Nepalgunj depend on mountain weather and visibility. Including an additional day provides valuable flexibility in case the return flight from Dolpo is delayed or cancelled.
If all flights operate according to schedule, you can enjoy a relaxing day in Kathmandu. Explore the colorful streets of Thamel, visit local markets or arrange an optional sightseeing tour to places such as Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple , Patan Durbar Square or Bhaktapur Durbar Square.
You may also choose to relax at your hotel, enjoy Nepali cuisine or shop for souvenirs before your international departure.
Your memorable 12-day Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek comes to an end today. Depending on your international flight schedule, you may have some free time to relax or enjoy a final walk near your hotel.
A representative from Himalayan Dream Team will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight.
We hope you leave Nepal with wonderful memories of Phoksundo Lake's turquoise waters, the traditional villages of Dolpo and the kindness of the people you met along the way.
Thank you for traveling with Himalayan Dream Team. We look forward to welcoming you back to Nepal for another Himalayan adventure.
Shey Phoksundo Lake is located in Dolpa district in western Nepal, within Shey Phoksundo National Park. The lake lies at approximately 3,611 metres above sea level and is famous for its remarkable turquoise-blue water, dramatic cliffs and peaceful Himalayan surroundings.
Our Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek takes 12 days, including arrival and departure from Kathmandu, domestic flights, trekking days and time to explore the lake. The itinerary also includes a reserve day for possible flight delays, making it a practical choice for international travelers.
Yes, active beginners with good physical fitness and preparation can complete the Phoksundo Lake Trek. Although the route does not involve technical climbing, several days require long walks on uneven mountain trails. We recommend regular walking and hill hiking before your trip.
Yes, Himalayan Dream Team can arrange a private Phoksundo Lake Trek for solo travelers. We provide an experienced local guide and organize the necessary travel arrangements. Solo trekking arrangements must follow the current national park and restricted-area regulations applicable to your route.
The trek can be suitable for active families and older travelers who are comfortable walking several hours a day. Fitness, altitude tolerance and previous hiking experience are more important than age alone. Himalayan Dream Team can discuss a customized itinerary with additional trekking days if needed.
No. Swimming in Phoksundo Lake is not recommended and is generally prohibited under local conservation and cultural rules. The lake is considered sacred by local communities, and its cold water can also be dangerous. Visitors should enjoy the scenery while respecting local traditions and park regulations.
Drone flights are not automatically permitted in Shey Phoksundo National Park. Visitors may need authorization from Nepal's aviation authorities and relevant conservation or security offices. Please contact Himalayan Dream Team before bringing a drone so the applicable regulations can be checked.
Mobile phone coverage is limited and unreliable in remote parts of Dolpo. Some villages may have a local network signal, but internet access and Wi-Fi cannot be guaranteed. We recommend informing your family that you may be out of contact during parts of the trek.
Banking facilities are very limited in the Dolpo region. You should carry sufficient Nepali rupees for personal expenses, drinks, charging fees and tips before beginning the trek. Do not rely on ATMs or card payments in remote villages.
Essential items include comfortable trekking boots, warm layers, a waterproof jacket, a sleeping bag, trekking poles, gloves, a sun hat, sunscreen, personal medication, a reusable water bottle and a power bank. Weather can change quickly, so suitable clothing for both warm days and cold nights is important.
Shey Phoksundo National Park protects a variety of Himalayan wildlife, including blue sheep, Himalayan tahr, musk deer and the elusive snow leopard. Birdlife is also diverse. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, particularly rare animals such as snow leopards.
The Phoksundo Lake Trek is a shorter journey focusing on the lake, Ringmo Village and surrounding landscapes. The Upper Dolpo Trek is a longer and more demanding adventure through remote valleys, high mountain passes and traditional settlements. The 12-day lake trek is generally more accessible for travelers with limited time.
Yes. Himalayan Dream Team can customize the itinerary according to your available time, fitness level and travel interests. Additional trekking days, private arrangements and cultural experiences can be discussed before booking, subject to local conditions and permit requirements.
Yes. After returning from Dolpo to Nepalgunj, you can extend your holiday with a wildlife safari in Bardia National Park. This is a wonderful way to combine Himalayan trekking with jungle activities and opportunities to observe Nepal's wildlife.
Himalayan Dream Team is a Nepal-based trekking company offering personalized journeys with experienced local guides. We arrange domestic flights, required permits, accommodation and trekking support according to your itinerary. Our aim is to provide a well-organized, flexible and memorable experience while helping travelers discover the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Dolpo.
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