Phoksundo Lake Trek

Trip ID: UM5785
Destination Dolpa
Duration 11 Days
Difficulty Easy to Moderate Persons
Group Size 2-30
Maximum Altitude 3612m.
Best Time Spring and Autumn
Activities Trekking / Hiking
Accommodation Hotel & Tea House
Meals Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Transportation Private Vehicle and Flight
Start from Kathmandu
End at Kathmandu

Trip Overview

Trip Highlight

  • Explore the turquoise Phoksundo Lake, the deepest and most beautiful lake in Nepal
  • Experience the untouched wilderness of Shey Phoksundo National Park
  • Discover Tibetan-style villages and Bonpo monasteries reflecting ancient Himalayan culture
  • Chance to spot snow leopards, blue sheep, and Himalayan mountain goats
  • Walk through enchanting forests of pine, birch, maple, walnut, and oak
  • Scenic flights between Kathmandu, Nepalgunj, and Juphal with panoramic mountain views
  • Experience the unique hospitality and simple lifestyle of the Dolpa people
  • Witness breathtaking waterfalls, cliffs, and glacial valleys along the trail
  • Ideal trek for travelers seeking solitude, photography, and raw natural beauty

Detailed Itinerary

  • Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu

    Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel.
    Overnight at hotel.

  • Day 2 : Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj

    A scenic 45-minute flight takes you to Nepalgunj, a vibrant town in the Terai region near the Indian border. Explore local markets and enjoy your evening at leisure.
    Flight time: 45 mins | Altitude: 150m | Overnight at hotel.

  • Day 3 : Fly to Juphal (2,354m) and Trek to Dunai (2,000m)

    Fly to Juphal, the starting point of your trek. Walk along the Bheri River, passing small villages and watermills before reaching Dunai, the district headquarters of Dolpa.
    Flight: 30 mins | Trek: 4 hrs | Overnight at lodge in Dunai.

  • Day 4 : Trek from Dunai to Chepka (2,670m)

    Cross a suspension bridge over the Bheri River and continue through lush forests and small settlements. Enter Shey Phoksundo National Park and trek past waterfalls and rich vegetation to reach Chepka.
    Trek: 6–7 hrs | Overnight at lodge in Chepka.

  • Day 5 : Trek from Chepka to Sanduwa (2,838m)

    Walk through dense forests of oak, maple, pine, and birch. The trail includes several uphills and downhills along a narrow ravine, offering a mix of challenge and beauty.
    Trek: 6–7 hrs | Overnight at lodge in Sanduwa.

  • Day 6 : Trek from Sanduwa to Phoksundo Lake (3,612m)

    Today’s trail descends through birch forests and follows the Phoksundo Khola. As you approach the lake, the turquoise color of Phoksundo surrounded by cliffs and peaks will leave you speechless.
    Trek: 6–7 hrs | Overnight at lodge near Phoksundo Lake.

  • Day 7 : Explore Phoksundo Lake

    Spend the day exploring the deep blue lake and nearby Ringmo Village, famous for its Tibetan-style houses and monasteries. Learn about the local Bonpo religion and enjoy a peaceful day by the lakeshore.
    Overnight at lodge.

  • Day 8 : Trek from Phoksundo to Sangta (3,611m)

    Climb a steep trail for a last view of the lake before descending through forests and local settlements toward Sangta.
    Trek: 6–7 hrs | Overnight at lodge in Sangta.

  • Day 9 : Trek from Sangta to Juphal (2,499m)

    Walk along the rocky trail beside the Bheri River, passing small waterfalls and stunning landscapes before arriving back in Juphal.
    Trek: 5–6 hrs | Overnight at lodge in Juphal.

  • Day 10 : Fly from Juphal to Nepalgunj and Return to Kathmandu

    Take an early morning flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj and connect to Kathmandu. Rest and enjoy a farewell dinner in the evening.
    Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

  • Day 11 : Final Departure

    Our team will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport, three hours before your flight. Farewell and safe travels!

Trip Cost Inclusion

  • Airport Transfers: International and domestic airport pickup/drop-off
  • Domestic Flights: Kathmandu–Nepalgunj–Juphal–Nepalgunj–Kathmandu
  • Transportation: All ground transportation as per itinerary
  • Accommodation: 1 night in Kathmandu (BB Plan, twin sharing) and 9 nights in local guesthouses/lodges during trek
  • Meals: 10 breakfasts, 11 lunches, and 10 dinners during trek
  • Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit, Restricted Area Permit and TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card
  • English-speaking licensed trekking guide
  • Porter service (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
  • First-aid kit carried by guide
  • Necessary government taxes and service charges

Trip Cost Exclusion

  • Nepal visa fees upon arrival
  • International flight tickets
  • Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj
  • Personal expenses (laundry, Wi-Fi, hot showers, etc.)
  • Travel insurance (must cover medical & evacuation up to USD 100,000)
  • Tips for guide, porter, and driver
  • Costs due to flight delays, landslides, or natural disasters

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