Trekking In Nepal

Shey Phoksundo Trek

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Shey Phoksundo Trek

Dolpo is Nepal’s largest district by area and one of its most spectacular and least-visited regions. Remote valleys, turquoise water and ancient Himalayan culture make it a must-visit for trekkers from around the world. The Shey Phoksundo Trek (also searched as the Se Phoksundo trek) is a rewarding journey to the turquoise Phoksundo Lake, the deepest alpine lake in Nepal. It lies in Shey Phoksundo National Park in the remote Dolpo region of western Nepal. The trek to Shey Phoksundo winds along the Suligad River and through traditional villages of Lower Dolpo. Along the way you get Kanjiroba Himal panoramas and a chance to see Himalayan wildlife. You also reach the sacred Bon monastery at Ringmo, where ancient Bon Po sites and Tibetan Buddhist traditions blend with lake views. It is ideal for offbeat explorers who want cultural depth and natural beauty. The route starts at Juphal and passes through Chhepka and Ringmo Village. The Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek (or Se Phoksundo Lake Trek) leads to the deep blue and emerald waters of Phoksundo Lake, Nepal’s deepest lake. Buddhists and Bon-Po followers regard Phoksundo as holy, so the Phoksundo trek is a blend of nature and culture. Ringmo village on the southern shore offers a close look at local Bonpo life. The Tshowa monastery on the eastern side of the lake is another highlight. The Shey Phoksundo trek lies within Shey Phoksundo National Park, home to endangered species such as the snow leopard, musk deer, blue sheep and Himalayan tahr. The trail passes through scenic woods, dense pine forests and old villages, with snow-capped mountains overhead. Rivers and waterfalls along the way are among the most beautiful sights in Nepal. A typical Shey Phoksundo trek itinerary (also called the Shey Phoksundo itinerary, Phoksundo trek itinerary or Se Phoksundo lake trek itinerary) begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, then a flight to Juphal and a trek to Dunai. From there the trail leads through Chhepka to Ringmo, with a rest day at Phoksundo Lake to visit Ringmo and Tshowa monastery before returning to Juphal. The itinerary can be adjusted to your pace and schedule. Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are the best seasons for the Shey Phoksundo trek, with clear skies, stable weather and good mountain views. If time allows, add a day or two at the lake to enjoy the scenery and surrounding area.   Book your Shey Phoksundo Trek today for an unforgettable trip to Phoksundo Lake and the hidden heart of Nepal’s Karnali wilderness.

Overview

Destination Nepal
Altitude 3612m
Region Dolpo Region
Season Spring/ Autum
Difficulty Easy
Accomodation Hotel, Tea house & Camping
Duration 13 Days

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport; transfer to a hotel in vibrant Thamel. A company representative guides you on a short tour to explore restaurants, ATMs, and money changers for your Kathmandu Valley culture stay. Rest and prepare for the Dolpo region adventure. Overnight in hotel.

Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu & Trek Preparation

Enjoy a full-day guided tour of Kathmandu Valley culture, visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. Explore Patan’s fine arts and historical architecture. Evening trek briefing and gear checks. End with an authentic Nepalese dinner at a cultural restaurant. Overnight in hotel.

Day 3: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj

Take a scenic flight to Nepalgunj, a bustling transport hub in western Terai near Bardia National Park and the Indian border. Relax and prepare for the next leg of your remote Karnali trek. Overnight in hotel.

Day 4: Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal & Trek to Dunai

Board a 35-minute flight to Juphal (2,475m), the gateway to Phoksundo National Park. Begin the Shey Phoksundo Trek with a gentle descent through local villages along the Thulo Bheri River to Dunai, a lively hub with a hospital and paved streets. Overnight in lodge.

Day 5: Trek from Dunai to Chhepka

Trek along the Suligad river journey, climbing steadily past shrubs and exposed rock-cut trails above the turquoise Suli Gad Khola. Cross a wooden bridge at Kageni and ascend to the grassy village of Chhepka, surrounded by dramatic cliffs. Overnight in Chhepka.

Day 6: Trek from Chhepka to Rechi

Follow the riverbank on a log-supported path through a rocky gorge. Spot wildlife footprints (primates, horned herbivores) in the damp soil. The trail offers scenic Himalayan wildlife trails and a pleasant ascent to the village of Rechi. Overnight in teahouse

Day 7: Trek from Rechi to Ringmo Gaon

A shorter trek with a 650m ascent beside a dramatic waterfall, leading to the yak-filled meadows of Ringmo village trek. Arrive at the stunning turquoise lake trekking destination, Phoksundo Lake, with basic lodges and homestays. Overnight in lodge.

Day 8: Acclimatization Day at Ringmo

Explore the magnificent Shey Phoksundo Lake Nepal, famed for its turquoise hue and glacial backdrop. Visit Bon monastery Ringmo, including the 11th-century Shey Gompa and 900-year-old Thashung Gompa, showcasing sacred Bon Po sites and Tibetan Buddhist heritage. Wander Ringmo’s Tibetan village and enjoy Kanjiroba Himal views. Overnight in lodge

Day 9: Trek from Ringmo Gaon to Shyanta

Depart the serene Phoksundo lake trekking area, descending through Sangta’s scenic trails. Reflect on the cultural insights from Lower Dolpa culture and enjoy the quieter paths back toward civilization. . We stay overnight at the hotel.

Day 10: Trek from Shyanta to Juphal

Continue the descent through Sangta to Juphal, retracing the Suligad river journey with final glimpses of Dolpo’s rugged beauty. Prepare for the return flight. Overnight in lodge.

Day 11: Fly from Juphal to Nepalgunj

Take a 35-minute flight back to Nepalgunj, enjoying aerial views of the western Himalayas. Relax and reflect on your Dolpo hidden valley adventure. Overnight in hotel.

Day 12: Fly from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu & Leisure Day

Fly back to Kathmandu (35-40 min). Spend a leisure day exploring Kathmandu Valley culture—visit Narayanhiti Museum, Nagarkot hilltop, or shop in Thamel. Enjoy a farewell dinner celebrating your Phoksundo lake trekking journey. Optional plans for Chitwan jungle safari or rafting. Overnight in hotel.

Day 13: Departure from Kathmandu

Bid farewell to Nepal with a transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport, 3 hours before your flight. Exchange contacts with travel companions and plan your next Nepal western Himalaya adventure. End of the Shey Phoksundo Trek.

*Note: This 13-day itinerary is optimized for acclimatization and cultural immersion, with flexibility for weather or logistics. Includes meals, permits, and guided support; international flights excluded. For 2026 bookings, contact a licensed operator like Wongchhu Peak Promotion. Book Shey Phoksundo Trek for an epic Phoksundo lake adventure today!

Includes

  • All airport/hotel transfers,
  • 4 nights Kathmandu in Kathmandu with breakfast,
  • A full day sightseeing tour in Kathmandu valley including tour guide, Transportations and entrance fees,
  • Kathmandu-Nepalgunj-Juphal-Kathmandu airplane flight and departure taxes,
  • Food and Accommodation during camping trekking (full board service – breakfast, lunch and dinner + hot water),
  • An experienced English speaking trekking & climbing guide and Sherpa porters to carry luggage including their salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food and lodging,
  • All necessary paper works (National Park Fee ),
  • TIMS (card),
  • Wongchu Peak Promotion Trekking duffel bag and trekking/ climbing map,
  • Travel and rescue arrangements,
  • Insurance for Nepali Staff,
  • Daily Dispatch on www.wppnepal.com,
  • Special Welcome and Farewell Dinner.

Excludes

  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary,
  • If required to change from airplane to helicopter to/from Nepalgunj-Juphal  due to weather issues, the additional cost of the helicopter will be shared amongst clients,
  • Personal trekking and climbing gear,
  • Meals in Kathmandu (except breakfast and farewell dinner),
  • Alcohol and Beverages during the trek and climbing season,
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, shower etc.),
  • Emergency Medical Evacuation & any medical costs,
  • Tips for guides and porters,

Equipments

1.0 Travel Documents

  • Valid passport
  • Credit/Debit card
  • Passport size photo (6 pieces)
  • Insurance paper and contact address
  • Family contact number

2.0 Upper Body Wear

  • Thermal Top Base Layer (2 Pcs)
  • Fleece Jacket (1 Pcs)
  • Gore-Tex Jacket (1 Pcs)
  • Down Jacket (1 Pcs)
  • Cotton T-Shirt (2 Pcs)

3.0 Lower Body Wear

  • Thermal Bottom Base Layer (2 Pcs)
  • Fleece Trouser (1pcs)
  • Gore-Tex Pant (1 pcs)
  • Mid Weight Pants (1Pcs)
  • Light Weight Quick Dry Trekking Pants (2-3 Pairs)
  • Gaiters for trekking boots

4.0 Headwear

  • Sun Cap
  • Fleece Hat/ Warm Hat (1-2 Pcs)
  • Neck Gaiter (2 Pcs)

5.0 Handwear

  • Thin fleece gloves
  • Wind stopper/screen tap gloves

6.0 Footwear

  • Normal Socks (2-3 Pairs)
  • Trekking Shoes (Gore-Tex)
  • Slipper (1 Pair)

7.0 Sleeping Bags

  • Sleeping bag -20°c to -30°c for Base camp
  • Down Sleeping Bag -40°c for extreme comfort
  • Thermarests Mattress (Cell foam)
  • Sleeping bag Liner
  • Inflatable Pillow

8.0 Trekking Equipment

  • Power Bank
  • Pee Bottle
  • Altimeter watch
  • Pocket Knife
  • Walking Stick/Trekking Pole
  • Satellite Phone with credit
  • Battery
  • Headlight 500-700Lumens
  • Spare Tape Slings/240cm
  • Unlock Carabiner
  • Lock Carabiner

9.0 Bag packs

  • Rucksacks 35 L -50 L

10.0 Sun stuff

  • Banana Boat/ Nivea
  • Sun Cream (-20 Spf)
  • Lip Guard -20 (Spf)
  • Sun Glasses (Uv Protection)

11.0 Toiletries (Personal)

  • Toilet Paper / Wet Tissue
  • Toothpaste
  • Toothbrush
  • Soap
  • Shampoo
  • Towel
  • Garbage Bag

12.0 Eating & Drinkings

  • 1 ltr. Water Bottle
  • 1/1.5ltr. Thermos Mug (Opt.)
  • Spoon / Fork (opt.)
  • Bowl (opt.)

13.0 Medical / First Aid

  • Brufen / Ibuprofens
  • Antibiotic
  • Diamox
  • Paracetamol
  • Handy Plaster
  • Crack Bandage
  • Tincture Iodine
  • Ondem
  • Cetirizine
  • Electrolyte
  • Minil 10mg (Palpitation, anxiety)
  • Codopar (Headache & chest pain)
  • Salbetol 4mg (Breathless)
  • Azithromycin 500mg (chronic tonsillitis, fever, nose, throat infection-must take 5 days)
  • Flupen 250mg (prevent wound infection)
  • Allegra 120/180mg (Allergic tonsil)
  • Menstrual Products

14.0 Miscellaneous

  • Nail cutter
  • Umbrella /Raincoat
  • Hot water bag
  • Camera
  • Trails Maps
  • GPS Tracker (Recommended)
  • Hand & Toe Warmer

Map

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