Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek

Trip Facts

  • Duration 9 Days
  • Trip Difficulty moderate
  • Max. Altitude 3611m
  • Start and End Kathmandu - Kathmandu
  • Best Time Spring/ Autumn
  • Accommodation Tea House

Trip Highlights

  • Explore Nepal’s cultural and traditional history and significance for the unity of the country.
  • Enjoy the scenes downward your flight over the Himalayas that set the tone for the adventure.
  • Stroll through the ridges of Shey Phoksundo River, which is one of the most scenic lakes.
  • Enjoy the most picturesque scenes of lush forests and villages from Dunai to Chhepka.
  • Marvel at one of the tallest waterfalls in Nepal, known as Jharna Waterfall
  • Trek along the rivers of Bheri and Phoksundo.
  • Discover the richness of Tibetan Buddhism directly involved in the periphery.
  • Visit the as old monastery 600-year-old Monastery, above the Phoksundo Lake.

Overview

The trek to the Shey Phoksundo Lake is a 12-day thrilling adventure crafted by All Nepal Excursions. This trek unveils the enchanting and pristine blend of beautiful natural and cultural immersion. We start from Kathmandu, where we can explore the historic sites, before taking a flight to Nepalgunj and then joining the Juphal airport. The trek will start from Juphal with the descent towards Dunai. Dubai is the administrative headquarters of the Dolpa district and stands at an elevation of 2000m above sea level.

The trek’s centerpiece is Shey Phoksundo Lake at an elevation of staggering 3611m. This lake is a turquoise marvel that is surrounded by the rugged peaks and stunning views of the neighbouring hills. Tshow Gompa is paired with the Shey Phoksundo Lake, which is at 3700m. This gompa is believed to be a 600-year-old monastery. This monastery offers magnificent views of the mountains and lush hills beyond.

This trek is considered moderately difficult. We will reach up to 3700m at the highest. The trek will immerse us in Dolpo’s untouched and lush landscapes. The Tibetan-influenced culture, Bon and Buddhist monasteries, and Dolpo’s serene wilderness provide us with an immense sense of pride and achievement while on this trek. All Nepal Treks invites everyone to join us on the most thrilling yet rewarding treks of western Nepal. This trek is a perfect escape for thrill-seekers.

Why choose the Shey Phoksundo trek?

The Shey Phoksundo Lake trek is a tranquil and thrilling journey that allows us to immerse ourselves with the adventurers and the cultural fanatics off the off-beat route in Nepal’s one of the most remote places. This trek provides the awe-inspiring views of the near and far hills. The major attractions of this trek are Shey Phoksundo Lake, Jharna waterfall, and the cultural Ringmo Village. This trek helps the trekkers to immerse themselves in the peaceful and untouched beauty of both nature and culture. All Nepal Excursions believes this could be your dream destination to enjoy the rich culture and tradition.

Main Attraction

This trek’s pinnacle and the majorly focused destination is the turquoise Phoksundo Lake, which is located at 3611m. This lake is paired with the Jharna Waterfall and Tshowa Gompa. The lake offers an awe-inspiring view of the surroundings and a spiritual angle.

History

Dolpo is a historical region, tied with the Tibetan Buddhist and Bon traditions. The Tshowa Gompa is over 600 years old, which reflects the region’s spiritual heritage. The Ringmo Village is committed to the justification of the history that prevails.

 Culture

The trek showcases Dolpo’s Tibetan-influenced culture. It is evident in Ringmo Village and its stone houses and chortens bound with the local traditions. Locals often practice the ancient rituals in this Himalayan lifestyle.

 Geography

This is a remote region traversed by rugged Himalayan terrain. With elevations from 150m to 3700m, that features the rugged terrains, waterfalls, and the stunning Shey Phoksundo Lake, which is a pinnacle of this trek.

Flora and Fauna

Dolpo has a diverse ecosystem that includes pine forests, alpine meadows, and rare wildlife like blue sheep, snow leopards, and Himalayan Tahr. The flora includes medicinal herbs and vibrant rhododendrons that thrive. The flora and fauna in this trek enhance the experience.

Best Season for the Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek

Spring (March to May)

Spring offers a better atmosphere with mild temperatures at lower altitudes. The blooming landscapes provide the floral beauty of this trek into a different perspective. The moderate weather ensures the experience of comfortable trek. Trails are generally dry, and the festivals like Lhosar during the season add a different buzz in the villages like Dunai and Ringmo. The season provides the blooming flora and fauna that blend with the cultural vibrancy. This season is an ideal season for the trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is a uniquely vibrant season for the completion of this trek. The season provides the most effective and efficient conditions for the trek. We will have clarity of weather after the end of the monsoon. So, there are high chances we get the most beautiful Himalayan vistas. Temperatures are also better than others to make the trek easier. Post-monsoon trails are firm and dry, and the major festivals also fall in this season, so the vibrance and buzz in this trek are unique and beautiful.

Difficulty of the Shey Phoksundo Trek

The 12-day Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek is rewarding and challenging at the same time. It is remote and provides basic safety and comfort in the highlands. The trekkers have to prepare for every unforeseen circumstance.

  • We will reach around 3700m at Tshowa Gompa. The trek poses the risks of mild altitude sickness. This trek required proper pacing and acclimatization, especially in Phoksundo Lake.
  • The Dolpo region is a restricted area due to its remote location and limited facilities. We will have basic lodges and teahouses without emergency medical access. This demands self-sufficiency and careful planning.
  • The terrain for this trek is very uneven and steep. This might challenge a trekker’s physical and mental endurance with good fitness.
  • The weather can get very unpredictable and uncomfortable at times. The unpredictability challenges the comfort of trekking.

Permits Required

PermitPrice (USD)
Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit$30 per person
Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit$20 per person per week + $5 per additional day

Altitude Sickness

Altitude

The Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek ranges from the lowest at 150m at Nepalgunj to 3700m at the Tshowa Gompa. The other highest points are Phoksundo Lake at 3611m and Ringmo Village at 3600m.

 Acclimatization

Acclimatization is done for the marginal adaptation to high altitude. The gradual ascents from Dunai to Tshowa Gompa help adapt to the thinning level os oxygen. Rest days in Ringmo with the short hikes reduce the possibility of altitude sickness risks.

Precaution

We have to stay hydrated and ascend slowly will help us take the precautions. We have to take light nut nutritious meals and follow the advice. The guide will check on you if you have shown any kind of symptoms.

Basic Treatment

If you show any kind of symptoms, the first thing we do is to descend immediately. If those symptoms persist, use Diamox. Staying hydrated and resting enough will help with the minor altitude sickness symptoms. The first aid will help with mild injuries.

 Rescue

The rescue process can be very challenging and very expensive due to Dolpo’s remote and inaccessible conditions. Helicopter rescue is limited in Juphal, but they are very costly. We recommend that you have travel insurance that covers the cost of medicals and evacuations.

Insurance

Travel Insurance is very necessary during the treks to Shey Phoksundo Lake. As we travel the higher altitudes and remote terrains, there are lingering unforeseen risks.  Medical Insurance should cover the high-altitude rescue and medical bills that can be hefty for your hard-earned money. Ensure that the coverage extends to 5350m and includes adventure activities. Always verify the policy details before buying the insurance. All Nepal Excursions will help in choosing the best travel insurance for you. Feel free to text us anytime.

Food and Accommodation during the Trek

Food

The food during the trek will primarily be prepared by the camping crew at the campsites due to the remoteness of the trail. The food will be simple, hearty dishes like dal bhat, noodles, soups, Tibetan bread, and so on. Fresh vegetables will not be available during the high-altitude treks like this, so expect preserved or canned food. The city areas like Kathmandu and Nepalgunj will provide ample food options with a variety. We recommend that you carry snacks like energy bars and chocolates to sustain you on the longer trekking days.

Accommodations

Accommodations during the trek are very basic. Teahouses in Dunai and Ringmo offer basic beds and blankets with shared facilities. These teahouses often lack electricity and a heating system. We have to use our sleeping bags even if a blanket is provided. With just the basic pit toilets and no hot showers in the remote areas, Facilities are minimal and very basic. Trekkers should prepare for the rustic conditions and carry the appropriate gear for a comfortable trek.

Additional Activities during the Shey Phoksundo Trek

The Shey Phoksundo Lake Treks offers more than just a trek. We will have various opportunities to enrich our experience through cultural and natural, with spiritual connections to the Dolpo’s remote landscapes.

  • We will engage with the cultural activities in the villages like Ringmo. We can learn about the Tibetan Buddhist traditions.
  • We will have ample opportunities to have the photogenic moments besides Shey Phoksundo and the surrounding area.
  • We will visit the 600-year-old Monastery of Tshowa Gompa and learn about its cultural heritage.
  • We might be lucky to see some of the rare wildlife, like blue sheep and snow leopard, during our trek.
  • We will have an enchanting experience of walking near the Jharna Waterfall and observing the alpine flora.

Detailed Itinerary

  • Day 01: Fly to Nepalgunj (492m)

    We will fly to the city of Nepalgunj, which is elevated to just 492m in Nepal’s western terai region. The city serves as a transit for the remote treks like those of Dolpo. We will have a stroll in the city to adapt to the warmer climate. The flight to Juphal is tomorrow.
    Altitude: 492m
    Meals: BB
    Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 02: Fly to Juphal (2,475m) and Trek to Dunai (2,000m)

    Today, we will take a scenic aerial route towards Juphal from Nepalgunj. This flight will offer you the bustling Himalayan Views. We will begin our trek officially in Dunai. We will follow the riverbeds of Thuli Bheri before reaching Dunai. The day will expose you to the lower Dolpa’s rugged beauty.

    Altitude: 2,000m
    Meals: AP
    Accommodation: Tea House

  • Day 03: Trek to Chhepka Village (2,670m)

    We will have a steep ascent alongside the Bheri River from Dunai to Chhepka today. The trail traversed the traditional villages with terraced fields along with the rugged terrain. We will cross the tall suspension bridges and enjoy the mystic landscape of the Himalayas. Chhepka is a small settlement that offers a peaceful campsite on the scenery. We will have a camp setting and spend the night here.

    Altitude: 2,670m
    Meals: AP
    Accommodation: Tea House

  • Day 04: Trek to Jharna Waterfall (3,200m)

    We will have an early morning hike towards the Jharna Waterfall. This is a stunning cascade of water, also known as Phoksundo Waterfall. This route will take 6 hours. The trail will climb steadily through the rugged terrain with the increasing Himalayan views. The Jharna waterfall is one of Nepal’s toughest and tallest waterfalls to reach. This day will test our physical resilience.

    Altitude: 3,200m
    Meals: AP
    Accommodation: Tea House

  • Day 05: Trek to the Tibetan Ringmo Village (3,600m)

    We will have a short trek of 3-4 hours in order to adapt to the lower levels of Oxygen. The trek will lead us to the very traditional Tibetan-influenced Ringmo Village. Ringmo is a culturally vibrant village that offers us cultural immersion and a rich heritage. We will spend the day enjoying the cascading beauty of this village and spend the night here.

    Altitude: 3,600m
    Meals: AP
    Accommodation: Tea House

  • Day 06: Explore Sacred Phoksundo Lake (3,611m) and Tshowa Gompa (3,700m)

    We will reach the Phoksunfo Lake, which is a gem of an adventure surrounded by the rugged peaks and paired with the Tshowa Gompa at a staggering 3700m. This gompa is considered a 600-year-old village. Minimal trekking allows time for rest and adaptation to the thinning oxygen level and to acclimate to the higher altitude. We will have our connections to nature and culture deepen.

    Altitude: 3,700m
    Meals: AP
    Accommodation: Tea House

  • Day 07: Trek to Chhepka Village (2,670m)

    We will have a steep descent today. The trail will pass through the traditional villages with terraced fields and pine forests. We will cross the tall suspension bridges and enjoy the mystic landscape of the Himalayas. Chhepka is a small settlement that offers a peaceful campsite on the scenery. We will have a camp setting and spend the night here.

    Altitude: 2,670m
    Meals: AP
    Accommodation: Tea House

  • Day 08: Trek to Juphal (2,475m)

    We will have a majorly 5-6 hours journey descending along the Bheri river. We pass through the villages and terraced fields during the trek. We have our walking section completed by the time we reach Juphal. We will spend the night in Juphal, before boarding a flight to Nepalgunj tomorrow morning.

    Altitude: 2,475m
    Meals: AP
    Accommodation: Tea House

  • Day 09: Fly from Juphal to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj (1,300m)

    This is the last of our trips in Nepal. We have an early morning flight to Nepalgunj from Juphal. Our next board will be from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu after lunch. After arriving in Kathmandu, we will have a celebration dinner marking the end of this beautifully crafted and adventurous trek.

    Altitude: 1,300m
    Meals: Breakfast
    Accommodation: N/A

What's included

  • All arrival and departure transfers by private vehicle.
  • Domestic flight: Kathmandu - Nepalgunj - Juphal and Juphal- Nepalgunj-Kathmandu.
  • All domestic pick up and drop off by private vehicle.
  • 3 Star hotel accommodations in Nepalgunj with breakfast included.
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the entire trekking.
  • Twin sharing best available lodges/teahouses during the trekking.
  • Government Authorized Licensed Experienced Guide (salary, allowances, transportation, food, accommodation, equipment, insurance etc.)
  • Shey Phoksundo National Park entry fee.
  • Lower Dolpo Restricted Permit cost.
  • Complementary farewell dinner.
  • Government taxes, service charges and administration cost.
  • First Aid Kit.
  • Trip Completion certificate.
  • Travel & rescue arrangements.

What's not included

  • Accommodations and meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during your stay in Kathmandu.
  • Lunch and dinner in Nepalgunj.
  • Your travel insurance.
  • Porter to help trekkers luggage. 2 trekkers will share 1 porter, Max weight limit for a porter- 20 kg (10 kg per trekker, weight limit).
  • International flight and departure tax.
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, mineral water, battery charging, telephone calls, Wi Fi, sweets, snacks etc.
  • Any expenses of personal nature.
  • Nepal entry visa fees.
  • All bar and beverages bills.
  • Any loss arising due to unforeseen circumstances that is beyond All Nepal Excursion control.
  • Tips for guide and supporting staffs.
  • Anything that is not mentioned in cost included section.

Equipment

Equipment & Gear for Trekking in Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek:

Before embarking on a trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek, it is essential to pack the necessary gear and equipment. Here is a checklist of essential trekking gear you should take with you:

Clothing:

  • Warm and waterproof/hard-shell jacket
  • Fleece or soft shell jacket
  • Hiking pants and shorts
  • Long-sleeved trekking shirts
  • Thermal underwear
  • Hiking socks
  • Insulated and waterproof gloves or mittens
  • Warm hat and headwear to protect your face and neck from the sun

Footwear:

  • Sturdy and waterproof hiking boots

Backpack:

  • Large backpack (50 to 80 liters) with a rain cover
  • Daypack (around 20 liters) to carry essential items during the day

Sleeping and Shelter:

  • Trekking poles
  • Sleeping bag
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Personal First Aid Kits and medicines

Electronics:

  • Camera and extra batteries
  • Portable chargers for electronic devices

Others:

  • Water bottles/hydration packs and filters or purification tablets
  • Lightweight and quick-drying towel
  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • Insect repellent
  • Whistle and compass
  • Cash and necessary documents (passport, permits, trekking maps, insurance)
  • Trekking map and guides

It is important to note that this checklist may vary depending on the weather conditions, trekking route, and personal preferences. It is advisable to pack light and carry only the essential items to make your trek comfortable and hassle-free.

FAQs of Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek

  • 1. What drinks are available during the trek?

    There are very few clean sources on the trail. The boiled and purified water might not be available throughout the trek, so having water purification tablets is a must. Teahouses provide tea and coffee, and those can be provided in the campsites as well.

  • 2. What food can I expect on the trek?

    Teahouses serve modest foods, but very nutritious. They will serve dal bhat, noodle soup, and Tibetan bread with boiled egg, etc. The campsites will have a few options like dal bhat, noodles, pasta, and other vegetarian options.

  • 3. Should I tip guides and porters?

    Tipping is a mark to show our appreciation of the hard work and assistance in our successful trek. We recommend USD 10-15 per day for a guide and USD 5-10 for porters, split among the groups.

  • 4. How should I respect local culture in Dolpo?

    We respect the local culture by bowing our heads and saying, “Namaste” or “Tashi Delek”. We ask permission before capturing the photos, and do not interfere with their daily rituals. We have to rotate from right of the gumbas to show the respect.

  • 5. What is the appropriate dress code for the trek?

    We have to wear multi-layered clothing that is weather-appropriate. During the visit to the villages and Gompas near, we should wear modest clothes that cover the shoulders to the knees.

  • 6. Are vegetarians or special diets accommodated?

    Mostly during the trek, Vegetarian options like dal bhat and vegetable soups are widely available. If you want to have special diet plans, please inform us before the trek so that we can arrange them. You can bring supplements by yourself if necessary.

  • 7. Is alcohol available, and should I consume it?

    Local alcohol items like Chhyang are available in some of the teahouses. We discourage the consumption of alcohol during high-altitude terrains like Shey-Phoksundo.

  • 8. How can I stay safe with food and water hygiene?

    You can use water purification tablets and filters for safe and hygienic water facilities. All Nepal Excursions will provide the purification tablets as a part of the package.

  • 9. Is internet or phone connectivity available during the trek?

    Connectivity is available but very unreliable during the trek. Some of the villages, like Dunai, have weak but unreliable mobile network services. Satellite phones and walkie-talkies are recommended. There will hardly be any Wi-Fi during the trek.

  • 10. What is fitness requirement for the trek?

    You should be fit but not super fit. This is a moderate level trekking. There is no requirement of prior trekking experience. Ensuring proper acclimatization days and with proper gears you can easily complete this trek but carrying some personal knee support and general cardio is recommended.

  • 11. Is there communication service?

    The communication services on trails are available in few areas and some villages have telephone from where you can make international calls as well. The entire trip doesn’t favor in communication as some place you might not get cell service.

  • 12. Is drinking water available on the lower Dolpo trekking?

    You will be provided with boiled water during the trek. While trekking, it is important to keep hydrated; you should drink at least 3 liters of water each day. As additional precaution, we suggest you bring a supply of water purification tablets to add to the water.

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