Overview

Difficulty: Challenging. Good head for heights essential!
Grade: 4
Max Elevation: 4,200m/13,776ft
Accommodation: Hotel / Tea house/lodge
Meal: All meals during the trek.
Transport: Private/public vehicle / Internal flight x 1
Total Trip Days: 14 Days
Group size: 2 - 8

Tour Price: £2,250
Single Room Option: £230(Kathmandu Only*)
Deposit from: £325

The Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek is a captivating journey into the pristine Dolpo region, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Renowned for its striking turquoise waters, the sacred Phoksundo Lake is revered by the Bon-Po religious community and framed by the majestic Kanjirowa mountain.
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The trek passes through Shey Phoksundo National Park, Nepal's largest national park, known for its diverse flora, fauna, and medicinal herbs. Along the trail, trekkers can explore traditional Tibetan-influenced villages and untouched wilderness.
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Rated as a moderate to challenging trek, it involves steep ascents, high altitudes, and rugged terrain, making it ideal for those with prior trekking experience or good physical fitness. This unforgettable adventure is perfect for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts seeking serenity and unspoiled beauty.

The adventure begins with a long overland journey from Kathmandu to Dunai, navigating winding mountain roads and remote trails, offering a chance to witness daily life in Nepal’s rural communities.

This greener alternative to flying reduces your carbon footprint, though one flight is included in the journey. The trek crosses two high passes, Baga La and Numa La, reaching altitudes over 5,000 meters, and includes visits to the high-altitude village of Doh Tarap.

With its mix of challenging terrain, cultural immersion, and stunning natural beauty, this trek is truly unforgettable.

Start your adventure here

Travel for Sustainability

14-Day Trip

Challenge Level

Starting at: £2,250 per person

Trip Highlights

Reduce your co2: For a more immersive and eco-friendly experience, take local transport to the trek’s starting point. While the journey will be very long and challenging, it offers rewarding cultural encounters and glimpses into remote villages along the way. For a quicker, more comfortable option, a fly-in, fly-out alternative is available.
Peaceful Solitude: Escape the crowds and enjoy the tranquility of an untouched Himalayan environment.
Shey Phoksundo Lake: Nepal's deepest lake, famous for its striking turquoise-blue waters and spiritual significance for the Bon-Po religion.
Kanjirowa Mountain Views: A stunning backdrop to the lake, offering incredible photo opportunities and awe-inspiring landscapes.
Shey Phoksundo National Park: Nepal’s largest national park, home to rare wildlife like snow leopards, blue sheep, and diverse flora.
Cultural Immersion: Visit traditional Tibetan-influenced villages and experience the unique culture, customs, and hospitality of the Dolpo region.
Bon-Po Heritage: Discover sacred monasteries and ancient spiritual traditions of the Bon-Po religion.
Remote Wilderness: Traverse rugged trails through dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs in one of Nepal’s most secluded regions.
Phoksundo Waterfall: Also known as Suligad Waterfall, this spectacular cascade is located near the lake. It is one of Nepal's tallest waterfalls, dropping an impressive 167 meters (548 feet).

⚠️ Please note: Due to the nature of these trips, weather or unforeseen events may alter plans. We recommend adding an extra day to your tour to allow for flexibility.

Fixed Departures

2025 Dates

Sat, 26 Apr

Wed, 9 May

Sat, 1 Nov

Fri, 14 Nov

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu – A Warm Welcome to Nepal

Highlights

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you. After a brief introduction, you’ll be transferred by private vehicle to your hotel in the heart of Kathmandu. Along the way, catch your first glimpse of this vibrant city, rich in history and bustling with life. Once checked in, the day is yours to relax or explore nearby areas like Thamel. Later, we’ll hold a briefing to discuss your adventure ahead.

Accommodation

Kathmandu Hotel

Day 2

Trip Briefing & Final Trek Preparations

Highlights

Join our trek coordinator for a comprehensive briefing, covering everything from your daily itinerary to essential safety measures and gear checks. This session ensures you're fully prepared for the trek. Meet your guide, fellow trekkers, and finalize any remaining arrangements. Spend the evening exploring Kathmandu or picking up last-minute essentials.

Accommodation

Kathmandu Hotel

Day 3-5

Drive from Kathmandu to Dunai

Highlights

Days 3-5 involves a challenging journey from Kathmandu to Dunai in Dolpa District, which is known for its remote location and lack of direct public transport. The overland trip is divided into multiple segments, using buses and jeeps, making it both arduous and time-consuming.

The first leg of the journey is a long bus ride from Kathmandu to Surkhet, covering approximately 500 kilometers in around 15 - 20 hours. The highway is generally well-paved, though potholes and landslides can pose challenges, especially during the rainy season. Overnight stay at local lodge.

From Surkhet, travel continues by jeep or local bus to Jajarkot, around 130 kilometers away, taking about 6 to 8 hours. This segment offers scenic views of lush forests, villages, waterfalls, and an opportunity to spot wildlife along the way. After an overnight stay in a lodge, the final leg of the journey from Jajarkot to Dunai involves a combination of jeep travel and trekking, as road conditions can be poor or even non-existent in some areas. This stretch covers roughly 185 to 200 kilometers and takes around 12 to 15 hours, depending on the route.

Drive Time

15-20 hours

Accommodation

Lodge

Day 6

Trek from Dunai to Chhepka(2,720m/8922ft)

Highlights

After breakfast, begin your trek along the Thuli Bheri River, enjoying views of surrounding hills and occasional glimpses of snow-capped peaks. The trail passes through quaint villages such as Hanke, marking the entrance to Shey Phoksundo National Park, a haven for blue sheep and Himalayan monals. Continue through serene pine and juniper forests, with peaceful surroundings, before reaching Chhepka, a small village set amidst terraced fields and dense forests.

Accommodation

Overnight in Local Guest House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek time

6-7 hrs

Day 7

Trek from Chhepka to Jharana Hotel (3040m)

Highlights

The trek begins with a gradual ascent through lush forests of pine, birch, and juniper, accompanied by the sounds of birds and flowing streams. The path follows the Phoksundo River, offering views of cascading waterfalls and rocky landscapes. You’ll pass small settlements and herder huts before reaching Jharana Hotel, set in a tranquil environment at 3,040m.

Accommodation

Overnight at Jharana Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Time

5-6 hrs

Day 8

Trek to Ringmo Gaon (3640m/11942ft)

Highlights

The trail ascends through pristine alpine forests, with breathtaking views of valleys and cliffs. A highlight of the day is the spectacular Suligad/Phoksundo Waterfall. As you approach Ringmo Gaon, the forest gives way to rocky landscapes. Located by the shores of Shey Phoksundo Lake, the village offers panoramic views of the turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

In the late afternoon, you’ll also have the option to visit the ancient Tso Gompa monastery 3800m/1265ft, a 900-year old Bonpo monastery perched on a ridge overlooking the lake.

Accommodation

Overnight in Ringmo

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek time

3-4 hours

Day 9

Explore Phoksundo Lake, Tso Gompa, and Viewpoint Trek (4200m/13776ft)

Highlights

Today offers several options depending on the group. You may visit Tso Gompa, a sacred Bonpo monastery (if not done yesterday), or choose to trek for 2 hours to a viewpoint at 4200m/13776ft, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the turquoise lake. After lunch, return to Ringmo village and visit the local school to gain insight into the educational challenges and opportunities in this remote region. Interact with students and teachers, learning about the blend of traditional and modern practices in education. The remainder of the day can be spent exploring the village, relaxing by the lake, or soaking in the peaceful surroundings, offering a perfect opportunity to reflect on the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Dolpo region.

Accommodation

Overnight in Ringmo Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10

Trek from Phoksundo Lake to Chhepka (2720m/8922ft)

Highlights

Begin your descent, following the Phoksundo River downstream through dense forests of pine, fir, and birch. Enjoy views of waterfalls and rocky cliffs along the way. The trail offers glimpses of wildlife, such as Himalayan Tahr and langurs, and passes small settlements, providing an opportunity to experience local culture before returning to Chhepka.

Accommodation

Overnight in Chhepka

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Time

5-6 hours

Day 11

Trek from Chhepka to Juphal (2475m/8118ft)

Highlights

On your final day of trekking, descend through lush forests and along the Phoksundo River. The trail alternates between flat sections and gentle descents, with occasional short uphill climbs. After 5-6 hours, you’ll arrive in Juphal, where you can relax, reflect on your journey, and prepare for your return.

Accommodation

Overnight in Local Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Trek Time

5-6 hours

Day 12

Return to Kathmandu

Highlights

Taking the earliest flight from Jhupal to Nepalgunj, you’ll enjoy a scenic flight that offers a final view of the mountains before descending into the lower plains. Upon arrival in Nepalgunj, you’ll board a tourist bus for the journey back to Kathmandu, which takes approximately 15 hours. The bus ride offers a chance to reflect on your trek as you pass through the varied landscapes of Nepal. Transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu, where you can relax and unwind after your adventurous journey.

Accommodation

Comfortable Hotel

Day 13

Contingency/Explore Kathmandu

Highlights

A buffer day for unforeseen delays. If not needed, explore Kathmandu’s UNESCO sites—Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, and Patan Durbar Square.

Accommodation

Comfortable Hotel

Meals

Breakfast

Day 14

Departure or Extension

Highlights

Your Tour concludes after breakfast. If your flight is leaving today, transport to the airport is included. For trip extensions and inspiration please ask.

Meals

Breakfast

Day 13

Departure from Kathmandu

Highlights

After breakfast, you will be guided to the International Airport. Take pride to have completed this amazing trek. Cherish upon thousands of memories made and smiles shared during this incredible journey.

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu

Highlights

Arrival in the vibrant city of Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel, and meet the guide.

Drive time

7-8 hours

Trek Time

6-7 hours

Accommodation

Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals

Dinner

Day 2

Drive to Syabrubesi (1,550m)

Highlights

Scenic drive through winding roads, terraced fields, and picturesque villages.

Drive time

7-8 hours

Accommodation

Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals

Dinner

Day 3

Trek to Lama Hotel (2,380m)

Highlights

Trek through lush forests, cross suspension bridges, and enjoy the beautiful landscape.

Trek Distance

11 km

Trek Time

6-7 hours

Accommodation

Teahouse in Lama Hotel

Meals

Dinner

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu

Highlights

Arrival in the vibrant city of Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel, and meet the guide.

Drive time

7-8 hours

Trek Time

6-7 hours

Accommodation

Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals

Dinner

Create Your Own Private Trip

Gather a few friends, family, or your club and embark on a personalized adventure. Enjoy the flexibility and freedom to choose dates and itineraries that suit your needs.

Group Travel
Plan Your Own Itinerary
Flexible Scheduling
Travel and Transport

Includes

4 nights twin sharing accommodation on BB (Bed & Breakfast) basis at a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu.
Airport transfers as per the itinerary.
Twin sharing accommodation in a local lodge during the trek.
All meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek
Lower Dolpo Restricted Area permit
TIMS Card
Professional licensed expert trekking guide and support staff - Treehope Travel’s promise of fair wages for all staff.
Emergency medical kit box
Complementary trekking kit bag for all the trekking equipment (max weight per guest 12kg)
All applicable Government taxes.
Transportation:
Airfare: Juphal - Nepalgunj,
Local bus: Kathmandu – Nepalgunj – Dunai & Nepalgunj

Exclude

Travel Insurance - Essential* see Booking Conditions
Nepal Visa and Visa Fees
Personal Gear - You can easily hire and purchase equipment in Kathmandu.
Meals in Kathmandu: Lunch and dinner are not included.
Beverages: Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are excluded.
Personal Expenses: Costs such as laundry, phone calls, etc.
Gratuities: Tips for staff are not included.
Unforeseen Expenses: Costs incurred due to unforeseen circumstances are not covered.
Other Services: Any services not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions.

Langtang Valley Trek

Shey Phoksundo Trek
(Drive-in, fly-out)

Shey Phoksundo Trek
(Drive-in, fly-out)

Overview