⇀ Starts

Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM)

Arrive by 16:00 on Day 1

↼ Ends

Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM)

Any time on Day 11

Arrival Timing: To ensure you're well-prepared and can join our group briefing and a warm welcome dinner, we kindly request that you aim to arrive in Kathmandu no later than 4:00 PM (16:00) on Day 1 of your itinerary. This allows everyone to settle in and receive essential trek information.

Reaching Shey Phoksundo Lake involves a combination of scenic flights and short trekking stages through the Dolpo region of western Nepal. The journey begins in Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital, where you'll arrive and stay overnight to prepare for the adventure ahead.

From Kathmandu, a domestic flight takes you to Nepalgunj, a bustling transit town near the Indian border. The following morning, you'll board a dramatic mountain flight to Juphal, the gateway to Dolpo. From here, the trekking portion begins, gradually ascending through remote villages and lush landscapes toward the iconic Phoksundo Lake.

Along the route, you'll pass through key locations such as Dunai, Chhepka, Jharana, and Ringmo, each offering a glimpse into the unique culture and natural beauty of the region. After exploring the tranquil shores of Phoksundo Lake, the return route follows a similar trail back to Juphal.

Your journey concludes with return flights from Juphal to Nepalgunj, and then onward to Kathmandu, where you’ll prepare for final departure or further travel.

In Kathmandu (3-Star Hotel)

Your stay in Kathmandu includes accommodation at a well-rated 3-star hotel, conveniently located in the heart of the city. Hotel features include:

• Private rooms with attached bathrooms

• Hot showers and 24-hour electricity

• Free Wi-Fi and daily housekeeping

• A relaxing atmosphere perfect for pre- and post-trek rest

Please Note: Meals in Kathmandu are not included in the package, except for a complimentary welcome dinner on the first night.

In Nepalgunj (Standard Deluxe Hotel)

In Nepalgunj, you'll stay in a standard deluxe hotel offering a comfortable overnight break before your mountain flight. Amenities include:

• Air-conditioned rooms with en-suite bathrooms

• On-site dining with Nepali and continental options

• Room service and internet access

• Convenient airport access

During the Trek (Teahouses & Mountain Lodges)

While trekking through the Dolpo region, accommodation is in basic teahouses or mountain lodges, run by local families. Though rustic, they are clean and welcoming. You can expect:

• Twin-sharing rooms with warm bedding (blankets provided)

• Shared bathrooms, mostly squat-style

• Limited electricity or solar charging

• A genuine Himalayan experience close to nature

Food on the Trek

In Kathmandu: Only the welcome dinner is included. Other meals are self-arranged, allowing you to explore a variety of restaurants offering everything from traditional Nepali to international cuisine.

In Nepalgunj: Meals are included and served at the hotel, typically featuring Nepali, Indian, and continental dishes.

During the Trek: All meals are included and served at local teahouses. Expect wholesome, freshly prepared meals such as:

• Dal Bhat (rice, lentils, vegetables) – the trekker’s staple
• Noodles, soups, Tibetan bread, eggs, and seasonal vegetables
• Simple Western options (pasta, pancakes, porridge) in select areas
• Hot tea, instant coffee, and safe drinking water (boiled or bottled)

Food is nutritious and ideal for high-altitude trekking, though choices become more limited as you reach higher elevations.

This Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek is rated as Moderate. 

Many first-time trekkers complete the Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek successfully. With the right mindset, basic preparation, and a spirit of adventure, this off-the-beaten-path journey is absolutely achievable!

While it doesn't involve extreme altitudes or technical climbing, the trail does require good physical endurance and the ability to walk for several hours a day in remote terrain.

• Maximum Elevation: 3,641 meters (Phoksundo Lake)

• Trekking Duration: 7 days on foot

• Daily Walking Hours: 5–7 hours on average

• Trail Conditions: Well-marked mountain paths with some steep and uneven sections

Who Can Do This Trek?

This trek is suitable for:

• Beginner trekkers with good physical fitness and endurance

• Hikers who can walk for multiple days with breaks

• Adventurers comfortable with basic accommodation and minimal modern amenities

• Individuals prepared for the remoteness of the Dolpo region

Preparation Tips for Beginners

• Build stamina through regular walking, jogging, or hiking

• Include leg strength and core workouts in your training

• Practice day hikes with a backpack to simulate trail conditions

• Use trekking poles for better balance and joint support

• Stay hydrated and listen to your body during the trek

You don’t need prior high-altitude or trekking experience, but being in good shape and mentally prepared is important. The pace is gradual, and acclimatization is naturally built into the itinerary.

The Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek can be done year-round, thanks to the Dolpo region’s rain-shadow location, which keeps it drier than many other parts of Nepal. However, seasonal weather still affects trail conditions, flight schedules, and your overall trekking experience. Here's what to expect in each season:

Spring (March to May) – Best Season

• Temperature: 10°C to 20°C during the day; cooler at night

• Highlights: Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, and comfortable trekking conditions

• Why Go: Ideal for photography, stable weather, and excellent mountain views

Autumn (September to November) – Best Season

• Temperature: 8°C to 18°C during the day; cold at night

• Highlights: Crisp air, dry trails, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains

• Why Go: Peak trekking season in Nepal due to consistent weather and visibility

Winter (December to February) – Challenging but Peaceful

• Temperature: Can drop below freezing, especially at night

• Conditions: Cold, possible snow, and some teahouses may close

• Recommended For: Experienced trekkers seeking solitude and are well-prepared for cold weather

Monsoon/Summer (June to August) – Not Recommended

• Temperature: 15°C to 25°C with high humidity

• Conditions: Rain in lower regions, muddy trails, and potential flight delays

Important Note: While the upper Dolpo region remains relatively dry due to its rain-shadow location, access points like Nepalgunj and Juphal may experience flight delays and muddy trails. Extra caution is required during this time.

Preparing your body before the Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek is essential for a safe, enjoyable, and rewarding experience. This moderate-level trek requires good endurance, strength, and cardiovascular fitness due to long walking days, uneven terrain, and high-altitude conditions.

Build Cardiovascular Endurance

• Engage in regular cardio exercises such as jogging, brisk walking, cycling, or swimming

• Aim for at least 30–45 minutes, 4–5 times per week

• Incorporate interval training to improve stamina and oxygen efficiency

Strengthen Your Legs and Core

• Focus on leg workouts like squats, lunges, step-ups, and calf raises to build muscle strength

• Include core exercises such as planks, sit-ups, and back extensions to improve balance and stability

• Practice hiking with a loaded backpack to simulate trekking conditions

Practice Hiking

• Do regular day hikes on varied terrain, gradually increasing distance and elevation

• Wear your trekking boots and carry a backpack to condition your body

• Include uphill and downhill walking to prepare for steep trail sections

Enhance Flexibility and Recovery

• Stretch regularly to improve flexibility and prevent injuries

• Incorporate yoga or Pilates to strengthen muscles and enhance breathing

• Prioritize rest days and proper sleep for muscle recovery

Nutrition and Hydration

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats to fuel your training

• Stay hydrated throughout your preparation phase

• Avoid alcohol and excessive junk food to optimize performance

Start your training at least 6–8 weeks before your trek, listen to your body and gradually increase workout intensity, and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any health concerns before beginning your preparation.

The Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek is one of Nepal’s most visually and culturally enriching journeys, perfect for trekkers seeking a relatively moderate adventure in a remote and untouched part of the Himalayas. 

Located in the pristine Dolpo region of northwestern Nepal, this trek takes you to the stunning turquoise waters of Shey Phoksundo Lake, nestled at an altitude of 3,611 meters inside Shey Phoksundo National Park—Nepal’s largest national park, established in 1984.

Whether you're a first-time trekker or an experienced hiker, this itinerary offers a well-paced adventure that combines natural beauty, rich Tibetan-influenced culture, and diverse wildlife. Our standard 10-day Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek begins and ends in Kathmandu, but we offer fully customizable packages to match your schedule, fitness level, and interests.

Why Trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake?

• Phoksundo Lake is renowned as Nepal’s second-largest lake by area (494 hectares) and is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the country. Its vivid blue waters and tranquil surroundings make it a sight to remember.

• The lake holds spiritual significance for followers of the Bon-Po religion, which predates Tibetan Buddhism and adds a profound cultural layer to your journey.

• En route, you’ll visit the 900-year-old Thashung Monastery, perched on the lake’s edge—an architectural and spiritual gem of the Dolpo region.

• You’ll hike through diverse landscapes, including deep river canyons, alpine meadows, pine forests, and steep cliffside trails with unmatched views of the Kanjiroba Himalaya.

• The national park is home to rare flora and fauna, including blue pine, Himalayan birch, rhododendrons, and endangered wildlife like Himalayan Tahr, musk deer, and black bears—a true paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
  

How to Reach the Trailhead

The trek begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, a vibrant town in western Nepal. From there, you’ll take a short 35-minute flight to Juphal Airport (2,475m), followed by a gentle hike to Dunai (2,140m)—the official gateway to the Dolpo trekking region.

While it’s possible to reach Dunai via road and a multi-day trek from Nepalgunj, most travelers prefer the fly-in option for convenience and time efficiency. Our team handles all logistics, flights, and permits to ensure a hassle-free experience.

Trekking Highlights

• Trek along the Suligad River (Phoksundo River), surrounded by lush forests of blue pine, spruce, fir, and birch

• Pass through traditional Tibetan-influenced villages such as Chhepka, Chunuwar, and Ringmo

• Spend two nights at Phoksundo Lake for exploration, photography, and cultural immersion

• Climb to a lake viewpoint for unforgettable panoramas of the turquoise lake and snow-dusted peaks

• Visit sacred sites like Thashung Monastery and learn about the region’s ancient Bon heritage
  
  

Nature & Biodiversity

Covering over 3,500 sq. km, Shey Phoksundo National Park is a protected high-altitude ecosystem. It shelters a wide variety of alpine flora and fauna, including several endemic and endangered species. It’s especially rewarding for botanists, birdwatchers, and wildlife photographers, with chances to spot blue sheep, langurs, and rare birds.

Permits Required

To trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake, you’ll need the following permits:

• TIMS Card (Trekking Information Management System)
  
  

• USD 10 (Organized trekker) / USD 20 (Independent trekker)
  
  

• Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Fee: NPR 3,000 per person
  
  

All permits are arranged by our team in advance to streamline your journey.

Why Book With Us?

We are a Nepal-based trekking company specializing in remote treks like Shey Phoksundo. Our licensed guides, logistical expertise, and emphasis on sustainable tourism ensure that your trek is safe, insightful, and aligned with the local community and environment.

With us, you'll enjoy:

• Carefully curated itineraries

• Experienced, English-speaking guides

• Reliable support staff

• Ethical, eco-conscious practices

• Customizable options for private or group treks