Phoksundo Lake is in Dolpo district in the northwest of Kathmandu in the western part of Nepal which falls in Shey Phoksundo National Park, the largest national park in Nepal established in 1984.

Shey Phoksundo Lake is considered to be the second largest lake in Nepal with an area of 494 hectares. It is considered the most beautiful destination in the Dolpa district which is famous for its magnificent turquoise color.

Situated at an altitude of 3611 meters above sea level, this mesmerizing Shey Phoksundo Lake truly makes you feel peaceful and calm in the piece of paradise on earth.

The cultural highlight of this trek is the Thashung monastery dates back 900 years and is located near the lake. This monastery is based on the Bon-Po religion which is an ancient religion and it is believed that from which the entire cultural base for Tibetan Buddhism formed.

Trekking to Phoksundo Lake offers stunning mountain views of snow-capped mountains like Kanjiroba and an exciting walk along the Thulo Bheri and Suligad rivers.

This trek also provides an opportunity to enjoy beautiful mixed forests of blue pine, spruce, rhododendron, cedar, and silver firs, and if you are lucky enough you also can encounter wildlife like musk deer, Himalayan Thar, leopard, jackal, blue sheep, and Himalayan Black bear!

How to get to the trailhead of the Phoksundo Lake trek?

To begin the trek first you need to get to the far-western city of Nepalgunj for which you can either take 55 minutes flights from Kathmandu or take the bus ride which takes more than 16 hours. Then again you can choose 4 days to walk to get to Dunai or take a 35 minutes flight to Juphal then it's 3 hours walk to Dunai. Dunai is the main gateway to Shey Phoksundo Lake trekking.

Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek Highlights:

  • Explore the historical monuments and UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu before heading into the remote Himalayas.
  • Enjoy a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and onward to Juphal, the gateway to the Dolpo region.
  • Trek through beautiful pine and juniper forests, deep valleys, and pristine mountain rivers.
  • Discover spectacular waterfalls, amazing landscapes, and snow-capped Himalayan peaks.
  • Experience the unique culture and traditional lifestyle of Ringmo Village, a picturesque Himalayan settlement.
  • Visit the historic Thashung Monastery, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Dolpo wilderness.
  • Witness the breathtaking Shey Phoksundo Lake, Nepal’s iconic turquoise alpine lake set beneath towering cliffs and mountains.
  • Immerse yourself in the remote, untouched beauty, rich Tibetan-influenced culture, and timeless mountain life of Dolpo.

Phoksundo Lake trek route.

The trek begins from Juphal(2475m) and continues to Dunai(2140m) for the first night in the mountain. Dunai is a popular gateway to Dolpo trekking as for the Phoksundo Lake trek. Then the trek goes onwards to Chhekpa(2678m) and to Chunuwar(3110m) for the second and third nights of the trek which goes along the Thuli Bheri River and the Suligad River (Phoksundo River).

After this our trek ascends to Phoksundo Lake (3611m) which is our final destination of the trip, we spend two nights exploring the Ringmo village, visiting Thashung monastery, and hiking up to the viewpoint which provides a stunning overlook of the lake, snow-capped mountains, and surroundings. the second leg of the trek in which we retrace back the same way to descend, spending nights at Shyanta(2520m) and Juphal(2475m) from where we fly back to Nepalgunj and Kathmandu.

What are the Shey Phoksundo Lake trek permits and fees?

To trek to Phoksundo Lake, you have required two kinds of permits one is a “TIMS CARD” (trekking information management system) which costs USD 10 for organized trekkers per head and USD 20 for independent trekkers per head. The second one is the “Shey Phoksundo National Park entrance fee” which costs 3000 rupees per head.

Phoksundo Lake Trekking-12 days Itinerary Itinerary

The itinerary is Made on a regular flight basis so, it is recommended to have a day or two extra days for the trip just in case the flight can not take place because due to afternoon wind in the mountainous region it has more possibility to be fought cancelled.

Day 1 Your arrival in Kathmandu airport.

Our representative picks you up at Kathmandu airport and transfers you to the hotel. Later we have a meeting in our office where we discuss your preparation for the trip. overnight in Kathmandu

Max Altitude: 1,350m (4,429ft)
Duration: 30 min
Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
Mode of Transportation: Car/ Jeep

Day 2 Sightseeing around Kathmandu city in Historical places.

In the morning today after your breakfast our cultural guide takes you around UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES where you get to know more about Nepal’s history and culture. Overnight at Kathmandu

Max Altitude: 1,350m (4,429ft)
Duration: 3/4 hours
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
Mode of Transportation: Car/ Jeep

Day 3 Short & Scenic flight to Nepalgunj

This morning we take a flight to Nepalgunj which takes about 55 minutes to reach. Nepalgunj is one of the major cities of Nepal in the far-western part of Nepal. This city lies in the Tarai region which means it is hot and humid. Overnight at Nepalgunj.

Max Altitude: 150m (492ft)
Altitude Loss: 1200 meters
Duration: 1 hour
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Comfort Hotel
Mode of Transportation: Flight

Day 4 Morning flight to Juphal airport and trek to Dunai

The day begins with taking an early morning flight to Juphal airport of Dolpa district. The scenic flight takes about 35 minutes to reach from where we start off our trek. Our trek descends to the Bheri river passing through local farmlands and villages along the trail. The rest of our trek goes along the Bheri river which takes us to Dunai where we spend our first night in the mountain.

Dunai is the district headquarters of Dolpa district where you can find electricity, telephone service, basic medical facilities, school, and police stations. Overnight at Dunai.

Max Altitude: 2,030m (6,660ft)
Altitude Gain: 1,880 meters
Duration: 2/3 hours
Distance: 148 km
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge
Mode of Transportation: Flight and Drive

Day 5 Trekking to Chhekpa

The day starts off with passing through the town and shortly crosses the suspension bridge which takes us to the north side of the river. The easy walk along the river takes us to Suligad (2,070m) where we came across the entrance gate of Shey Phoksundo national park and check-in our permits. Then the trek climbs gradually to Kageni(2272m) along the river and in the meantime, we pass through several tea shops as well. Trek continues gradually to Chhekpa for our second night of the trek. Overnight at Chhekpa.

Max Altitude: 2,490m (8,169ft)
Altitude Gain: 460 meters
Duration: 5/6 hours
Distance: 15 km
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Local Lodge

Day 6 Trekking to Chunuwar

The trek today continues walking by the riverbank of Phoksundo river passing through dense forests and meadows along the trail. Meanwhile, we crisscross the Phoksundo river several times. The trail continues undulating to Chunuwar for the night which takes about 5 hours in total today.

Max Altitude: 3,110m (10,203ft)
Altitude Gain: 620 mters
Duration: 5 hours
Distance: 12 km
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Local Lodge

Day 7 Trekking to Shey Phoksundo Lake (3,611m/11,847 feet)

On A Relatively short day today, our trek starts off with a trek through the forests again along the Phoksundo river. Eventually, the trail climbs uphill and we come across the viewpoint from where we can observe Phoksundo waterfall which is about 167 meters tall. It is also considered one of the longest waterfalls in Nepal. Then after a short climb, the trail descends to Ringmo village which is situated by the Phoksundo lake where we spend our night.

Max Altitude: 3,611m (11,847ft)
Altitude Gain: 501 mters
Duration: 4/5 hours
Distance: 6/7 km
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 8 Exploration Day around Shey Phoksundo Lake and Ringmo village.

Today we explore around the lake and hike up to the hilltop which provides a great overlook of Phoksundo lake. as well as we explore Ringmo village and the monastery. Overnight at Ringmo.

Max Altitude: 3,611m (11,847ft)
Duration: 2/3 hours
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Loge

Day 9 Descend to Shyanta

After visiting our landmark of the trip, now we retrace back to the same way we came. For that, we have a gradual incline to the viewpoint from where we can see the last view of the lake then descends along the Phoksundo river and then Bheri river to Shyanta where we spend our night. overnight at Shyanta.

Max Altitude: 2,520m (8,267ft)
Altitude Loss: 1091 meters
Duration: 5/6 hours
Distance: 15/18 km
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 10 Trekking back to Juphal Airport 2030meters (6,660 feet)

Today is our last night of the trek in the mountain for which we retrace back the same way again which descends mostly to Juphal where we take our lunch. then after that trek first goes gradually along the Bheri river and uphill climb to Juphal airport. Overnight at Juphal.

Max Altitude: 2,030m (6,660ft)
Altitude Loss: 490 meters
Duration: 4/5 hours
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge

Day 11 Contingency Day for if We can't fly

This day is counted in the itinerary just in case we can not Manage to fly Due to Bad weather. with the tight schedule, you Might miss your international flight so, as part of the contingency plan, we also count this day. however, if everything goes as planned we don't use this day for the trekking.

Max Altitude: 2,030m (6,660ft)
Meals: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 12 Fly back to Nepaljunj and connect flight to Kathmandu

Today we catch the morning flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj airport and from there we take another flight to Kathmandu. Evening we take you to a place where you can enjoy Nepalese food and typical Nepalese dances. Overnight at Kathmandu.

Max Altitude: 1,350m (4,429ft)
Altitude Loss: 680 meters
Duration: 3/4 hours
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
Mode of Transportation: Flight & Drive

Day 13 Your Final Departure

On the final day of the trek, our representative takes you to Kathmandu airport for your final departure.

Max Altitude: 1,350m (4,429ft)
Duration: 30 minutes
Meals: Breakfast
Mode of Transportation: Car/ Jeep
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Cost Details for the Phoksundo Lake Trekking-12 days Itinerary

Includes
  • The airport picks up and drops off by private vehicle.
  • Hotel in Kathmandu for three nights
  • Sightseeing around Kathmandu.
  • Private vehicle for sightseeing.
  • Tour guide for sightseeing.
  • Round trip flight Kathmandu-Nepalganj-Juphal by plane.
  • One-night hotel in Nepalganj
  • All-night accommodation in a lodge during the trek on a twin-sharing basis (please inquire if you need private accommodation)
  • Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a cup of tea or coffee during the trip.
  • All required permits for trekking.
  • Licensed Guide and strong porter (one porter for two people)
  • Accommodation, food, salary, and insurance for guide and porter.
  • All government taxes
Excludes
  • Entrance fees while visiting UNESCO world heritage sites during sightseeing in Kathmandu.
  • Your trekking insurance and evacuation in an emergency.
  • Hard drinks, cold drinks, bottled water, and personal expenses.
  • Wi-Fi, hot showers, and battery charging.
  • Gratitude for the guide and porters.

Dates & Availability

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Oct 15, 2026
End Date
Oct 27, 2026
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Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek takes you into one of Nepal’s most remote and restricted Himalayan regions, where trekking infrastructure is limited and regular group departures are uncommon.

For a smoother and more enjoyable experience, we recommend traveling with at least 2 people in a group. To make the trek more accessible, we have scheduled several fixed departure dates that you can join if you are traveling solo or as a small group.

If your preferred date is not listed, please contact us for a private departure.

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Useful Information

Trekking essentials for Phoksundo Lake trekking.

You need a duffel bag that is supposed to be waterproof with a strap along with a TSA lock. In your duffel bag, you keep all the clothes and essential gear while trekking up to Naya Kanga base camp which will be carried by our porter. Regarding the size, you can choose from 100 liters to 140 liters duffel as this size all you to fit most of the things you need for trekking.

Sleeping bag

It is the most important piece of equipment for trekking and climbing. Normally the smaller and lighter the size, the more expensive it is. Regarding the warmth of sleeping bags, sleeping bags are warmer than synthetic ones. You need to bring a sleeping bag that rates up to -20c and a liner just in case it feels colder.

Daypack bag

It’s a daypack bag that you carry while waking where you put your wallet, camera, water bottle, rain cover, fleece jacket, and windproof jacket. Regarding the size of the daypack bag, the size of a small-medium 30 to 40-liter day bag with some side pockets where you can fit your water bottle or gloves is good. Moreover, if you can fit your Camelbak in your daily carry it is more efficient in the coldest weather as your water doesn't get freeze.

Water bottle

You can bring two water bottles in which you can drink in one and treat water in another to refill again. (Nalgene water bottle is good as you can put hot water as well if you want) you also can bring Camelbak which can be very handy for climbing.

Upper body

  • Short sleeve synthetic t-shirts*3(while trekking you sweat a lot so, synthetic t-shirts are best to bring as they are light and dry fast)
  • Wind shirts*1
  • Long sleeve Merino wool t-shirts*2
  • Synthetic insulated jacket (you can use it for climbing as well)
  • glove
  • Sunglass
  • Sun hat
  • Fleece hat
  • Rain gear or poncho.

Lower body

  • Trekking shoes (prober boots with grip is recommended as trail are rough so you might twist your ankle)
  • Slipper or lightweight shoes (it is handy to wear when you have done day trekking)
  • Cotton hiking shocks
  • Hiking pants*2
  • Fleece trouser
  • Underwear trousers
  • Underwear
  • Waterproof paint

Miscellaneous items

  • Items for drinking water treatments such as Steripen, iodine tablets, chlorine liquids, or water filters. (If you using liquids or tablets it might bring a different taste in water so you can bring some juice-powder to bring a nice taste)
  • Fast-drying camp towel (most guesthouses don't provide a towel for a shower so it's good to have one)
  • Body wipes (it comes in handy if you don't take a shower, especially in higher altitudes where there are no showers)
  • Lip balm
  • Sunscreens (minimum of SPF 40 plus as in higher altitude sunlight are direct and more penetrating.
  • Mobile phone (you can use it as an alarm or there are internet services in most of the guesthouses so, you can use it if you want to communicate)
  • Diary
  • Chargers with an adapter (you can charge your gadgets along the trail with hydro-powered electricity in the lower region and sun-powered in the higher region)
  • Camera
  • Medical kit (Diamox, Imodium, ibuprofen, throat lozenges, tape, scissor.( although we carry)
  • Zip-lock plastic bag (Although you put your all stuff in a duffel bag, Zip-lock bag can come in handy when you want to separate your items like toiletries, socks, underwear, and smelly clothes)
  • Headlamp or torchlight
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Trekking sticks (most people use them and it is very helpful while walking rocky trails and especially for knees going downhill.
  • Sandal
  • Pocket knife

Best Season for doing Phoksundo Lake trekking.

  • Autumn season: September, October, November.
  • Spring season: March, April, May.

The winter season is not considered to be a good time of year to do Phoksundo Lake trekking. From late December till January normally remains cold and the lake might be frozen so, the typical color of the lake may fade due to ice.