Phoksundo Lake Trek

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Phoksundo Lake Trip Summary

Phoksundo Trek Duration: 11 Days
Phoksundo Trek Difficulty: Easy to Moderate grade
Phoksundo Lake Height: 3,6115m / 11,847 feet
Trekking Hours: 6 hours daily
Hiking Group-Size: 2-15 People
Best Time to Visit: April, May, October, and November
Trip Mode: Guest House
Meals on Trek routes: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Transport: Car / Plane/ Bus

Overview

The Phoksundo Lake trek is situated in the remote Dolpo region and was opened to foreign visitors in 1992. It has highly esteemed for its opportunities to research snow leopards, explore remarkable culture, and observe diverse flora and fauna.

Local population resembles Tibetans in appearance and primarily speaks ‘Khaam,’ which is similar to but distinct from the Tibetan language. It provides unparalleled natural beauty, with exotic landscapes captured vividly by renowned director Eric Valli in his film “Caravan.”

Significantly, Shey Phoksundo Lake, the deepest lake in Nepal, is located in this region. Trekkers will have a magical experience, providing sightings of endangered species such as the snow leopard, musk deer, blue sheep, great Tibetan sheep, and Himalayan tahr. Additionally, the lake’s turquoise waters, reflecting the snowy Kanjiroba Mountain massif, create a breathtakingly beautiful scene.

Dolpo’s culture is both an unique and mystical and it features stunning forests, rivers, and waterfalls, making it one of the most magnificent nature trails in Nepal. Basic lodges are available along the route, allowing trekkers to visit Phoksundo Lake throughout the year, with the exception of winter. It also consider a religious by Buddhists and followers of the Bon-Po religion, contributing to its growing popularity in recent years.

Furthermore, the Shey Phoksundo Trek is Dolpo’s only lodge style trek and is relatively easy, as it does not involve crossing high passes. Hikers traverse through beautiful mixed forests and picturesque traditional villages within Phoksundo National Park.

How much is the Phoksundo Lake Trek Package Cost/Price?

With a local agency in Nepal, this Shey Phoksundo Lake trek cost typically ranges between US$ 1325 to US$ 1898 per person. Given package price includes transportation, a guide, porters, hotels and food accommodation and permits. Despite that, total cost is totally depending upon the group size you are traveling to and the service you choose.

It’s a standard trip package price for 11 days hike to Phoksundo Lake. If you are 2 tourists Phoksundo Lake Trek cost US$ 1490 for 11 days trek as per the given plan. We can modify the trek route and price according to your wish also. Here is the price list for 11 days Phoksundo National park trek in western part of Nepal.

Price Per Person for a Phoksundo Lake trek package.

Number of Tourist	Price Per Person
1 Person	US$ 1898
2 Person	US$ 1490
3 Person	US$ 1490
4 to 6 person	US$ 1450
7 to 9 Person	US$ 1398
10 and more than 10 Person	US$ 1325

If you’re wondering to know about what is included and what is excluded from this trip price, kindly check on the cost given on a tab button.

Itinerary

Amazing Dolpo’s Phoksundo lake trek itinerary details

An incredible Shey Phoksundo trek itinerary is a classic lodge based adventure featuring a thoughtfully crafted 9 days plan, providing a more relaxed alternative compared to most treks in the Dolpo region. It has specifically designed for global adventurers seeking to explore the stunning landscapes while enjoying the comfort of basic lodges. Alternatively, for travelers with limited time who wish to complete the trek at a faster pace, feel free to email us for a customized itinerary tailored to your schedule.

1 Day Arrival at Kathmandu valley

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, Tribhuvan International Airport, we will receive you and transfer to your hotel. Our representative will brief you on Phoksundo lake trekking programs and you may better prepare your necessary gears.

2 DayKathmandu to Nepalganj city flight and transfer to your hotel.

In the morning you can stroll in the streets of Thamel while we make Lower dolpa trek permits. Immigration of Nepal will have the authority to issue Dolpa restricted area permit. You collect all the necessary traveling documents from our representative and drive to the domestic airport of Kathmandu. From Kathmandu, we fly on any domestic airline to Nepalgunj city. Stands in a western Terai, which is very close to the Bardia National Park and Indian border.

3 Day Fly from Nepalgunj to Jhupal airstrips & a trek to Dunai (2,150m/7,054 feet), 3 hours

We take an early flight to Juphal, which takes about a 35-minute flight. Juphal is a gateway to exploring Phoksundo Lake. As begin, the trail ascends southeast high above Thulo Bheri valley followed by an hours of long walk through maize fields to reach Kalagaunda village. Continue with a southern bank of a river to pass Roop Ghar with the water mill and finally reach Dunai village. Dunai is quite a big mountainous area with schools, health posts, government offices, police stations, and tourist class guesthouses.

4 Day Trek from Dunai to Chhepka village (2,670m/8,760 feet), 6 hours.

Descend downhill through Dunai to cross the Bheri River bridge. Walk the northern bank of the river to Sunlight. Furthermore, we head north to reach the Shey Phoksundo National Park Check Post office. At this place, we manage second nature park permit called Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit.

Beyond the check post, we gradually climb up along the rock strewn, of serpentine Suli Ghad Khola. Trek goes further with a gorgeous tropical forest dominated by walnut and maple trees, we begin to see the first glimpses of Tibetan culture. Savouring the views of fluttering prayer flags, floral and faunal biodiversity, cascading waterfalls, and lush vegetation we arrive at Chhepka village. Stay overnight at the lodge.

5 DayTrek from Chhepka to Jharana Hotel (3,370m/11,057 feet), 6 hours.

Ascends through a forest of big cedars and on a winter settlement used by the people of Ringmo village. It climbs steadily through open countryside and we get a close view of a spectacular 330 meters high waterfall, the highest in Nepal, and a faraway view of Phoksundo lake.

6 Day Jharana Hotel to Ringmo village (3,460m/11,352 feet), 5 hours.

Today, you’ll make a steep descent trail through birch forests to the upper reaches of the Phoksundo River (Khola in Nepali). Cross a bridge and follow a trail north to the ranger station at Phoksundo Lake. Continue to the shores of the lake near the point where the Phoksundo river flows out of the lake. With the final push through the Phoksundo River gully, we emerge into the yak filled meadows of Ringmo village. Ringmo village is a popular place with the Bon Po religion.

7 Day Explore around Phoksundo Lake (DAY TOUR).

Explore the wonderful natural sites and enjoy the trip visiting Ringmo Village and head to Tshowa (the lake shore Bon Monastery). A Gompa nestling on a ridge top above Phoksundo Lake (3,611.5m /11,849 feet) was built about 900 years earlier. Exploring this culturally rich Bon Monastery is fascinating to experience. Drop you down to Phoksundo Lake along steep sided cliffs, famous for its magnificent turquoise color and spectacular scenery. Ringmo is a typical Tibetan village and is a scenic view from Phoksundo Lake. Monasteries (Gompas) and Bon-po religious sites are also possible to find in this park and we spend some time to visit some of them.

8 Day Descend from Phoksundo Lake to Chhepka (2,520m/8,268 feet), 7 hours

After an enjoyable journey of Phoksundo Lake we descend along the retracing trail to Chhepka. At here, you’ll spend a time to stay overnight.

9 Day Trek from Chhepka to Juphal Town, 7 hours

Later breakfast, we continuously retracing the trail that brings you to Juphal Bazaar after about seven hours of pleasant walks through culturally and naturally diverse trails. Guide will visit the airline office to reconfirm the return flight time. Its a final day of your trekking in Dolpo territory so You’ll stay overnight at a hotel in Juphal near airport airstrips and prepare the final celebration party.

10 Day Juphal to Nepalgunj and then take a connecting flight to Kathmandu

Early morning, walk to the airport in Juphal from where we fly to the airport in Nepalgunj. At Nepalgunj, board a plane that directly connects us to Kathmandu. Arriving in Kathmandu Airport terminal, Guide will manage a private transfer to take you to your hotel in Thamel area. Now, rest of the time you may explore Thamel vibrant markets for shopping on your own.

11 DayFinal departure day

Drop you in Kathmandu International Airport onward to your final destination and our trip ends. Wish you a wonderful journey.

Not satisfied with above plan?

Interested in planning a custom trip? this might take 2 to 3 minutes.

Plan Your Trip

Cost

How much is the Phoksundo lake trek package price?

It’s a 11 Days Classic Phoksundo Lake Trek price start US$ 1490 is a standard package per person on double occupancy basis. For the deluxe and luxury trekking tour plan, we add a 3 to 5 star category hotel deluxe air conditioned room in Kathmandu and a 3 to 5 star category hotel in Nepalgunj airport. AND WE ARE OPEN TO CUSTOMIZING YOUR TOUR AND PACKAGES PRICE AS PER YOUR REQUIREMENTS.

Includes in Phoksundo lake trek package price:-

Kathmandu international airport transfer with a private vehicle Car /Van.
2 nights in double bedroom accommodation in a tourist standard hotel in Kathmandu.
1 night in double bedroom accommodation in tourist standard hotel in Nepalgunj town.
Available nice lodge accommodation during the trekking days on the mountain trail.
10 Breakfast, 7 Lunch, and 7 Dinner while on a trek at Dolpo Phoksundo Lake.
Domestic flights: Kathmandu – Nepalgunj – Juphal & Juphal – Nepalgunj – Kathmandu round trip with departure tax.
Professional experienced English-speaking license holder and local trekking guide for trekking.
An assistant guide will provide for 7 plus group tourists.
Required porters as per trekking group. (1 porter = two guest basis luggage) because each of our porters can carry a maximum of 24 kilograms of your bag pack.
Lower Dolpo Special trekking permit issued by the Department of Immigration of Nepal.
Shey Phoksundo National Park entrance permit fee.
TIMS permit for trekking in Phorkundo nature park.
Food / Salary/accommodation and medical or accidental insurance of all the trekking guide and porter.
Farewell dinner party after the trip completion in Kathmandu.
All the required airport and hotel transfers according to the described travel plan.
Trek certificate and updated Phoksundo lake trek map – keep them as a souvenir.
Agency’s duffel bag (50 liters capacity), and trek poles if Necessary – return after the trek.
First aid medical kit including Oximeter to check your Oxygen level, Pulse rate to monitor every day to prepare for high altitude risk.
In a worst case, help with all Helicopter Rescue and evacuation arrangements (but not the rescue bills).
Nepal Government Tax, VAT, and as well as Company service charge.

Excludes in Phoksundo lake trek package price:-

Nepal entry visa fees are US$ 40.
Lunch and Dinner during your staying in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj city.
All types of drinks during your staying in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj city.
More than 1-night hotel accommodation in Nepalgunj town if needed.
Battery charges, laundry service, phone calls.
Tourist personal trekking equipment , Personal nature expenses, and bar bills.
-10 comfort fresh Sleeping bag rental cost per piece US$ 2 per day.
Kathmandu city monuments entrance fees and transportation on the second day as described above.
Travel Insurance which covers emergency rescue, evacuation, personal loss, or damage.
All types of donations to the monastery and gifts for the monks.
Gratuities for guide and porters [Tip is a culture, so they expect highly].

Group join

We can organize a private Phoksundo lake trek starting on any date that works for you. Please contact us for more information.

FAQ

Question: Is pick up service available on my arrival day in Kathmandu?

Answer: Yes sure. Provide us with your flight details and request for pickup. Our representative will come to pick up you at Kathmandu international airport.

Question: Do I need the experience to attain the Shey Phoksundo lake trek?

Answer: Prior trekking experience is not require but it is beneficial. It involves easy to moderate difficult terrain, including steep ascents and high altitudes, which can be demanding for beginners. It’s essential to have a good level of fitness, pack your gears properly for varying weather conditions. With proper preparation and a gradual acclimatization schedule, even first time trekkers can enjoy this beautiful journey.

Question: What kind of accommodation and food can I expect on the Phoksundo lake trek?

Answer: We provide tourist standard lodge accommodation along this Phoksundo lake trekking routes. However we recommend you take your own sleeping bags if you have one with you otherwise, you may rent them in Nepal.

Similarly, you will have meal at the local guest houses where they prepare a delicious range of mostly vegetarian meals. Such as Pasta, noodles, potatoes, eggs, curry rice, bread, soups, and fresh vegetable variety depending on the season.

Question: Will I have a hot shower along my journey to Phoksundo lake trek?

Answer: Yes, hot showers are available at many tea houses along this Phoksundo nature park trekking, but they often come with an extra cost. Availability and quality of hot showers can vary, with some tea houses providing gas or solar-heated water. As you ascend to higher altitudes, the availability of hot water may decrease, and the cost may increase.

Question: How do I manage drinking water on my Shey Phoksundo lake Trekking group?

Answer: Its a lodge base trekking thus you can buy bottle of mineral water along the journey at lodges, or at tea shops. But we advise against buying mineral water in plastic bottles, as currently there are no provisions for disposing of these. Instead, we advise you to buy boiled water or purchase AQUA tablets at the pharmacy on your arrival in Kathmandu. You can purify the normal water as the normal water is available at the lodges, streams or at the taps.

Question: Can I charge my mobile phone or digital camera battery on my trip?

Answer: Yes! You can charge your phone o digital camera battery along your staying in the lodges. We recommend you to bring a portable power bank or an extra pair in case and remember to bring your adapters.

Question: Is there any communication facilities at Phoksundo lake trek lodge?

Answer: Communication facilities are limited and phone signals can vary in this territory. Buy a local SIM card can be worthwhile for staying connected during the trek, as it provides access to mobile data and phone services

Question: When should I book my trip and what are the payment terms?

Answer: We recommend booking your trip with us as early as possible. While we strive to accommodate last-minute bookings, a 25% advance deposit is required to secure your reservation. This deposit allows us to make all necessary arrangements for your trip however, the remaining payment can be settled upon your arrival in Nepal.

Question: Who will carry my luggage on this express Phoksundo dolpa trek?.

Answer: We provide porters to transfer your luggage. As we are a responsible agency, each of our porters carry a maximum of 24 kilo of your backpack which means 2 guests (12 kg luggage of each guest): 1 porter basis.

Question: How much distance do I walk each day?

Answer: On the Shey Phoksundo Lake trek, the daily walking distance typically ranges from 5 to 7 hours, covering approximately 10 to 15 kilometres (6 to 9 miles) per day. Usually it spans around 9 to 10 days in total, with varying distances each day to accommodate the trek’s diverse terrain and elevation changes. It’s important to pace yourself and adjust your plans based on your fitness level and acclimatization needs.

Question: Do I need walking poles on the Phoksundo lake express trek?

Answer: Yes, using walking poles on the Phoksundo Lake trek is highly recommended. They can provide additional stability and support, especially on uneven and steep terrain, which is common on this trek. Walking poles help reduce the strain on your knees and legs, enhance balance, and improve your overall comfort during the hike. They are particularly useful for navigating both uphill and downhill sections, making your trekking experience more enjoyable.

Question: How much additional money do I need per day?

Answer: You can allocate US$ 08 to 10 per day to buy bottles of water, chocolates, tea/coffee. While your actual spending may vary depending on your habits, it is essential to manage these funds in local Nepali currency, as ATMs in Juphal airport often out of service. Additionally, credit card payment options is also not available along the trekking route, so we advise to carry sufficient cash.

Shey Phoksundo lake trek highlights

Turquoise waters of Shey Phoksundo Lake, one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in the Himalayas.
Explore Shey Phoksundo National Park, home to the rare wildlife and pristine mountain landscapes.
It is also believed to be a natural habitat of the elusive snow leopard.
Experience an unique Bon and Tibetan-influenced culture of the remote Dolpo region.
Trek through dramatic arid valleys, deep gorges, and rugged cliffs unlike any other region in Nepal.
Visit Ringmo Village, a traditional settlement reflecting centuries-old Himalayan lifestyle.
Enjoy spectacular views of snowy peaks and high desert terrain.
Walk alongside the impressive Phoksundo Waterfall, the highest waterfall in Nepal.
Discover an off the beaten path trekking route with a less crowds and untouched beauty.
Peaceful trekking experience through an ancient monasteries, chortens, and prayer walls.
Enjoy a true sense of remoteness and wilderness adventure in one of the most isolated regions.

Best time for Shey Phoksundo lake trek

During the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons ae the super best time to visit this Shey Phoksundo Lake trekking in Nepal. At these periods, the weather is generally stable and clear, offering optimal trekking conditions with moderate temperatures and minimal rainfall.

Spring brings blooming flora and vibrant landscapes, while autumn provides clear skies and stunning views of the surrounding snow capped peaks. Trekking during these times ensures a more enjoyable experience with the best visibility of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Conversely, the summer and winter months are less favourable for trekking due to heavy rainfall and snowfall, which can create challenging and unpredictable conditions. These weather extremes can significantly impact trail accessibility and overall trekking experience.

Shey Phoksundo lake trek difficulty level

Trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake is considered moderately challenging and requires a reasonable level of physical fitness due to varied terrain and occasional steep sections. Although the route does not cross high mountain passes, the overall length of the trek and gradual elevation gain demand good stamina and endurance.

Proper preparation is an essential for a comfortable and enjoyable journey. Trekkers should pack suitable clothing for changing weather conditions and allow enough time for altitude acclimatization to minimize the risk of altitude sickness.

Likewise, a journey to Phoksundo Lake is a breathtaking and rewarding experience, best suitable for families with older children and physically fit members. It involves long walking days, higher elevations, and limited infrastructure. While the trail is generally safe with careful planning and professional guidance, it may not be an ideal for very young children or elderly travelers seeking a relaxed pace.

However, carrying sufficient drinking water, energy snacks, and a basic first-aid kit is highly recommended for safety and comfort. Respecting local customs and the sacred significance of the lake will further enrich your trekking experience and foster positive interactions with local communities.

Notes for Shey Phoksundo lake trekkers

This Shey Phoksundo lake trek itinerary as outlined above, is possible to modify to meet your specific requirements upon request. Factors such as local politics, landslides, flight cancellations, weather conditions, transport issues, or other unforeseen circumstances beyond our control may necessitate itinerary changes during the trip.

While significant itinerary alterations are unlikely, if changes are necessary, the leader will decide the best alternative option, considering the best interests of the whole group. We strive to minimize the impact of any changes or delays, but we cannot be held responsible for the results of such occurrences.

“What makes Phoksundo lake trek special?”

Phoksundo Lake has a vibrant turquoise waters, mirroring the sky above, create a breathtaking spectacle that leaves a lasting impression on visitors. Additionally, it also takes travelers through traditional Tibetan villages, providing an opportunity to witness the distinct culture and lifestyle of the Dolpo people.

As well, Ancient monasteries, prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and the warm hospitality of the locals add a cultural dimension to the journey, making it a holistic and enriching experience.

Choose Your Phoksundo Trip with a Trusted Local Agency – Gokyo Treks & Expedition

Gokyo Treks & Expedition is a reliable local trekking agency in Nepal, known for providing authentic, safe, and memorable Himalayan adventures. Our licensed and experienced local guides have strong knowledge of the routes and culture, ensuring a smooth and meaningful trekking experience.

If you plan an unique mountain trekking experience in the Dolpo territory, discover our expertly crafted Phoksundo lake trek itinerary. Designed with flexibility, comfort, and affordability in mind, it is an ideal for adventure seekers looking for a rewarding yet well managed ascent.

Booking takes less than five minutes, so simply message us on WhatsApp at +977 9841 249988 or contact us by email. Our friendly team is always ready to customize your trip according to your travel dates, budget, and fitness level.

Whether you plan a Phoksundo trekking or exploring other Himalayan trekking adventures, Gokyo Treks & Expedition is your reliable local partner for a secure, immersive, and truly life changing mountain experience in Nepal.