Trip Duration
09 Days
Trip Difficulty
Easy
Max. Altitude
3,640m / 11,942ft.
Activity
Trekking
Destination
Nepal
Group Size
1-16 Pax
Accommodation
3 star Hotel
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
US$ 1320
We offer group discounts
Total Cost:
US$ 1380
Need help?
Talk to trip expert
The Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek excursion is a hidden treasure of Nepal. It takes you deep into the secluded and otherworldly Dolpo region in Karnali Province. Thanks to its pristine and unspoiled landscapes, this journey will make you feel like you’re walking straight to heaven.
The Phoksundo Lake trek was not opened to foreign visitors until 1992. This trekking adventure lies within the Shey Phoksundo National Park, Nepal’s largest national park in area, covering 3555 square kilometers. You will trek through one of the picturesque off-the-beaten-path trails, offering a peaceful atmosphere for your travel.
Your incredible 9-day journey starts with a flight to Nepalgunj from Kathmandu City. The following day, you will fly to Juphal from Nepalgunj to commence your hiking adventure in the Dolpo region, in the northwestern part of Nepal. You will hike across the winding trails of verdant forests, lovely cascades, radiant wildflower meadows, and traditional remote villages.
You will be walking through Dunai, Chhepka, Jharana Hotel, and Ringmo Gaon, and you will observe several wonderful places along the way, such as the green alpine meadow, animals like yaks, old monasteries, and local Bon and Buddhist customs that are not only varied but also distinct to the Dolpo people up in the Himalayas.
At Ringmo Gaon, perched on the lake’s edge, you will have a cordial reception showcasing the rich hospitality of local villagers. You will get a profound insight into the high-altitude lifestyle in this village. From here, you will wander towards the pinnacle point of this excursion, Shey Phoksundo Lake, sitting at 3611 meters (11849 feet) above sea level.
Shey Phoksundo is Nepal’s deepest lake, with a depth of 145 meters. With its striking turquoise color and absence of visible aquatic life, the lake offers a surreal, mirror-like reflection. The most captivating part of this lake is that towering limestone cliffs and forests of pine, juniper, spruce, and birch surround it.
On the ridge above Phoksundo Lake is the 900-year-old Tshowa Monastery, which holds deep spiritual and cultural value. From a distance, you can also enjoy the breathtaking Kanjiroba (6880 meters). The experience you’ll have at this lake will be truly unforgettable and unbelievable, making your trip absolutely worth it.
After exploring a day at Shey Phoksundo Lake, you will descend through Chhepka and end the trek in Juphal. During the journey, you may spot rare wildlife like blue sheep, Himalayan marmots, musk deer, and snow leopards. Similarly, the local people you meet along the way and the traditional foods you try make your journey even more memorable.
The 9-day Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek is moderate in difficulty, favorable for people with a reasonable fitness level. This adventure in the Dolpo region allows you to connect deeply with nature, along with rewarding, dramatic landscapes and a serene atmosphere that one can never forget.
This is the first day of your Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek journey in Nepal. After the first meal of the day, we will catch an early flight to Nepalgunj. Our private vehicle will pick you up at your lodging. Then, we will drive to the Kathmandu Airstrip and board a flight. During the flight, you can take in the aerial vistas of Kathmandu Valley, rolling green hills, deep river valleys, and a glimpse of mountains.
After about one hour of flying from Kathmandu, we will arrive at Nepalgunj airport. Harem, you will witness the stretch of fertile lowland with vast fields, forests, and scattered villages. We will then drive to the hotel to stay for one night before leaving for the Dolpo region to start the trekking journey.
After unwinding in the hotel, you can explore Nepalgunj. This is a key point for traveling to the remote west of Nepal, like Humla, Jumla, and Dolpa. It is a lively city in the Banke District, near the Indian border. You can explore Pushpalal Chowk or BP Chowk to witness the city’s bustling market.
You can visit the Bageshwori Temple, which is dedicated to Goddess Bageshwori. Similarly, you can travel through this city in a rickshaw, exploring the older places and offering an authentic local experience. We will fly to Juphal on this 9-day Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek itinerary tomorrow.
On this second day of the 9-day Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek itinerary, after a nourishing breakfast, we will take a flight to Juphal Airport, also known as Dolpa Airport, from Nepalgunj. On this short 30-minute flight, you can enjoy the aerial panoramas of the Terai lowlands, remote valleys, and the wall of distant Himalayan peaks.
When we land at Dolpo Airport, we will have a quick introduction to the rest of the team that is to come along on the Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek. This exciting trek starts from Juphal. Dunai, at the height of 2140 meters, will be our first destination in the mountain range.
To reach Dunai, we will be trekking through paths that are not only winding but also beautiful. The trail leading to Dunai is that of the Bheri River. You are able to witness the beautiful and vibrant flags swaying in the gust of wind; the trek will become all the more enjoyable and fascinating. As we reach closer to Dunai Village, the view becomes breathtaking with the unfolding cliffs.
There are a few uphill stretches while trekking to Dunai Village. After walking three to four hours from Juphal, we will finally reach the Dunai, where we will spend our first night enjoying delicious meals and taking in the fantastic views in the peaceful Dolpo region on this trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake adventure.
Today is the stunning third day of our Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek package in the Dolpo region. After a hearty breakfast at our Dunai Village lodging, we’ll hit the trails. We’ll hike uphill to the settlement of Chhepka, passing through jungles thick with walnut, maple, and oak trees.
On the way, you will also pass through some charming settlements and meet friendly locals who will make your day. While trekking, you will glimpse people’s lives in the secluded part of Nepal. You will notice how different life is here compared to the city and how the people live entirely differently.
We will cross the Thuli Bheri River via a long hanging bridge and then head to the village of Shyanta. We will stop in the middle for lunch in a teahouse and resume the trekking adventure. We will then ascend alongside the Sulgadi Khola River and cross many small rivers.
After about five to six hours of hiking from Dunai Village, we will finally arrive at Chhepka, at an altitude of 2720 meters. This village is the common overnight stop for the Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek guide journey. This village is influenced by Tibetan culture, which follows Bon or Tibetan Buddhism. Tonight, we will stay overnight here.
Our trail will take us today toward the Jharana Hotel from Chhepka Village. We will kick off our trekking adventure after a nourishing breakfast in our lodge, where we stayed overnight last night. We will hike gently through the calm woodlands of oak and pine, following the Sulgadi Khola River.
In the first part of the journey, we will cross a swaying hanging bridge, passing some of the secluded villages on the route. As we walk further, our path becomes steeper. After walking for some hours, we will arrive at the village of Renje. At this spot, we are going to take a short break to eat and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the wonders of nature.
Leaving Renje, the route gets harder because of the rocks and almost vertical uphill. You will be able to catch sight of such beauties of the mountains as Kanjiroba Himal and the Dhaulagiri Range in the distance as you go upwards. Along the way, we will cross many lovely cascades, which are picture-perfect.
In about four to five hours, we will reach Jharana Hotel, our overnight stay for today on this 9-day Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek itinerary. Jharana Hotel is close to the Jharana Waterfall Viewpoint, where you can enjoy one of Nepal’s most jaw-dropping waterfalls, 330 meters high.
On the fifth day of the Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek package, we will head to Ringmo Gaon, the last stop before heading to the highlight of this journey, Shey Phoksundo Lake. After a delicious breakfast at Jharana Hotel and enjoying the morning view, we will walk downhill on a steep path passing through the jungle.
Along the way, you can hear the sound of the Phoksundo River guiding your way. We will cross a bridge and continue the trek toward the Phoksundo Lake ranger station. As we continue our journey, we will get closer to the shores of Phoksundo Lake. Then, we will walk, navigating the Phoksundo River gully that will lead us toward the meadows of Ringmo Village.
We will reach Ringmo Village after a 4- to 5-hour walk from Jharana Hotel. This village is at an elevation of 3640 meters, nestled in lush meadows and beautiful forests of birch and pine. Phoksundo Lake is near this village. You can enjoy the serene natural environment before we continue our trek tomorrow.
Explore some of the religious sites here. This village is home to several Bon monasteries, including Chhepur Gompa, a significant Bon Po monastery in the area. Witness locals live an effortless and traditional life involving work such as animal husbandry, farming, and small-scale tourism.
On this seventh day of the 9-day Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek excursion, we will finally head to Shey Phoksundo Lake, which sits at a height of 3611 meters. After breakfast in Ringmo Gaon, we will make our way toward the Tshowa Bon Monastery, a tranquil spot to relax and take in the vistas of natural wonders.
You can gain deep insight into the rich culture and traditions of the Bon religion at this monastery. After spending some time here exploring, we will visit Phoksundo Lake. This lake is just one or two hours away from Ringmo Gaon Village. After reaching the lake, you’ll feel like the bright turquoise waters and calm around the lake have arrested you suddenly.
When you stand in front of Shey Phoksundo Lake, the tranquility of the place makes you feel that time is literally slowing down. The towering peaks surrounding the lake only deepen your understanding of awe and wonder at the sheer beauty of this location. You have your whole day to explore this beautiful destination.
While you are here, you can click photos and videos for the memories. Tomorrow, we will start our return journey toward Chhepka Village. You will have the opportunity to spend the night here, relaxing in a peaceful environment and watching the twinkling stars on this trek to Phoksundo Lake adventure.
After enjoying the natural beauty of Shey Phoksundo Lake, we will retrace our steps to Chhepka Village, following the same trails that we took before. We will descend through the forest, rocky paths, and charming villages. The journey will be easier when descending than when ascending.
The hike would be longer than previous hiking days because we will pass through Ringmo Gaon without halting. After 6 to 7 hours of trekking, we will arrive at Chhepka Village (2720 m), where we will spend the night surrounded by calm nature.
On this eight-day Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek package, we will continue our walk toward Juphal to end the trekking adventure. We will follow the path through the hillside, forests, open valleys, and other scenic landscapes. After walking for an hour, we will cross a suspension bridge and enjoy its gentle sway.
We will also walk past the Shey Phoksundo National Park checkpoint. The journey will take two and a half or three hours from here. After reaching Juphal, you will be welcomed by the lively village atmosphere. Tomorrow, we will fly back to Kathmandu from Nepalgunj airport, ending your journey in Nepal.
In the early morning, after breakfast, we will take a short flight to Nepalgunj from Juphal. As soon as we land in Nepalgunj, we will take another flight to Kathmandu, which takes about an hour. Our private transportation will be at the Tribhuvan airport terminal, and it will drive you to your hotel.
The remainder of the day in Kathmandu is yours to enjoy and do as you like once you have rested in the hotel. You can spend the afternoon at Basantapur Durbar Square or go shopping for trinkets. If you would like, we can set up a sightseeing trip in Kathmandu City to round up your nine-day Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek schedule.
There are four seasons in Nepal: winter, summer, autumn, and spring. Each season provides a unique experience when embarking on the Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek journey. However, spring and fall are considered the most favorable times to enjoy the peak nature of the Dolpo region.
Spring brings mild and stable weather to the Dolpo region, making for an enjoyable trekking experience. Along the way, you get to enjoy the blooming flowers and lush greenery, which are picture-perfect. Likewise, autumn is another peak season for the Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek package to trek in comfortable daytime temperatures.
However, the trails can be crowded during spring and autumn compared to other regular days. Most of the teahouses and lodges will already be reserved. So, it would be wise to book early before embarking on the trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake. However, trekking is not advised throughout the summer.
Heavy rains throughout the summer or monsoon cause muddy and slick trails, making the hiking experience even more difficult. Likewise, wintertime brings frigid temperatures, particularly at high-altitude locations like Shey Phoksundo Lake and Ringmo Gaon. However, the pathways will be more tranquil, offering stunning views and a tranquil mountain experience.
You will start your trekking adventure in Juphal, which sits at an elevation of 2475 meters. From here, you will travel to the village of Dunai at 2140 meters. You will make your way to the Phoksundo Lake, passing through the villages of Chhepka at 2720 meters, Jharana Hotel at 3040 meters, and Ringmo Gaon at 3640 meters.
Shey Phoksundo Lake, at 3611 meters, will be the highest destination on this Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek excursion package. On the other hand, you will trek, covering the distance of 81 to 82 kilometers, or 50.3 to 51.1 miles.
From Juphal, you will walk 49 to 50 kilometers to reach Phoksundo Lake. In the same way, from here, you will hike back around 32 kilometers to reach Juphal, where your trekking adventure formally ends with a flight to Nepalgunj, followed by another flight to Kathmandu city.
The Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek is a moderately strenuous journey in the Dolpo region of Nepal. One should be reasonably fit to complete this journey. Even though you don’t have to cross any high mountain passes and use technical climbing gear, this adventure still includes the uphill steep sections, changing altitude, and longer trekking days.
Another concerning factor of this journey is the risk of altitude sickness. Shey Phoksundo Lake lies at an altitude of 3611 meters, where one can catch acute mountain sickness if necessary precautions are not followed while trekking. You can know you have altitude sickness if you suffer from dizziness, nausea, and headaches.
In this case, you should quickly notify your guide or trekking partner for help. Moreover, for your well-being, our guide will also monitor your oxygen levels daily utilizing a pulse oximeter to record how your body is responding to the increasing elevations on this 9-day Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek excursion.
On this Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek journey, five hours of daily trekking will be needed. The minimum daily walk will be on the sixth day, about one to two hours, when you trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake from Ringmo Gaon.
In the same way, on your seventh day will take the maximum hike per day, which is about six to seven hours, when you return to Chhepka Village from Shey Phoksundo Lake. So, reasonable physical fitness is needed to trek continuously from day 2 to day 8. Your fitness will help you make the journey even easier than you thought.
Your Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek package includes meals and accommodation from breakfast to dinner in the Dolpo region. You will have lodging in local mountain teahouses and lodges, which are nice and clean and will serve you well during the trip. These teahouses usually have a common dining hall, neat rooms, and basic toilet facilities.
You are going to eat dal bhat with pickles, vegetable curries that are the must-get menu items, and momos in almost every meal as you go along the trail and while you stay overnight. At the higher altitude, one must expect the choices of food to become more restricted, particularly at the places of Ringmo Village and Shey Phoksundo Lake.
You can also pack midday trekking snacks and energy bars for a boost. Similarly, don’t forget to bring a refillable water bottle and water purification tablets for clean drinking water. However, while you are trekking, we don’t want you to consume alcoholic beverages and unhealthy foods for your health at higher elevations.
When pursuing in the Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek package excursion, trekking permits are required. You should possess the following lists of permits:
Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit: This permit allows you to enter Shey Phoksundo National Park. The fee helps conserve the Dolpo region; you can acquire this permit in Kathmandu or at the entry point in Dunia Village.
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System): You should also have this card while trekking, which will help track where you are trekking in the Dolpo region for emergency support and safety.
In this Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek journey, you mostly travel on foot. However, the portion of the journey that requires transportation will be covered in the package. Your flight tickets from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and Nepalgunj to Jhupal will also be covered. So, you don’t need to worry about the flights. We will have your tickets booked in advance to ensure a smooth trip according to the itinerary in the package.
Yes, the Shey Phoksundo Lake walk requires travel insurance. It is anticipated that a thorough insurance plan will protect against calamities, including medical emergencies, unintentional removal, and trip cancellation or interruption. Particularly in high-altitude locations, a helicopter rescue or extremely specialized medical care might be rather costly.
The insurance at such a moment feels like a security blanket keeping you warm if and when unexpected illness, injury, or weather-related delays hit you. When picking a policy, ensure it has provisions for high-altitude emergency evacuation (at least 4,000 meters) and includes Nepal specifically. Buy your coverage before the trip and feel at ease that you have full insurance starting the moment you are out of the house.
Commence your 9-day Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek deep into the Dolpo region of Nepal to have fabulous, memorable excursion. Upon flying from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and later to Juphal, you will embark on your journey via easy trails along beautiful forests, flowing streams, and colorful blooming meadows.
The charming Dunai, Chhepka, and Ringmo Gaon villages, with their warm hospitality and Bon and Buddhist traditions, are a perfect example of the best local culture and amiable environment. Trekking the heights, yak caravans, and ancient monasteries will be the backdrop of a panorama that will take your breath away, reflecting the deep blue Shey Phoksundo Lake.
You will reach 3,611 meters at Phoksundo Lake, surrounded by gigantic limestone cliffs. Similarly, you will learn about the history of the 900-year-old Tshowa Monastery and behold the beauty of the Kanjiroba Peak.
If you’re lucky, you might see blue sheep, marmots, or musk deer along the way. This experience will beyond your highest dreams, combining pristine wilderness with vibrant local culture.
If you go beyond the basic Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek package, remember that you must consider some additional expenses. In Kathmandu, the hotel and all meals are paid individually, along with any type of drink (be it alcoholic or non-alcoholic), all along the way.
Travel insurance, which includes helicopter evacuation in the case of an emergency, is highly recommended and is a cost not covered. Moreover, you should not forget about any personal expenditure, such as extra snacks, souvenirs, and laundry, as well as gratuities to the guides and porters that you will pay.
Shey Phoksundo Lake lies in the Dolpo region of Gandaki Province, Nepal, inside the Phoksundo National Park. It is famous for its clear turquoise waters and sits at an elevation of 3,611 meters.
This journey is a moderate hike with some steep climbs and high-elevation paths. So, reasonable fitness can help you a lot with trekking at ease. This journey doesn’t require technical gear, which is easy compared to other treks like Pikey Peak Trek, Gokyo Lake Trek, etc.
The easiest way to reach Shey Phoksundo Lake is to catch a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and then to Juphal. After landing, you will trek for four days to reach your destination.
The ideal months are May to September, during fall and spring, when blue, clear skies and mild temperatures are available. However, the Dolpo region lies in a rain-shadow area, making it favorable to travel in the monsoon season, too.
Completing this thrilling journey in the Dolpo region typically takes 9 to 12 days round trip. However, the schedule can be adjusted depending on your time in Nepal or the hiking pace.
Unfortunately, there is not. This lake has clear, low-nutrient waters that support almost no aquatic life, keeping it strikingly pristine.
US$ 1320
We offer group discounts
Total Cost:
US$
Need help?
Talk to trip expert
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