Shey Phoksundo Lake Dolpo Trek 11 Days

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, you will be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel in the city. After check-in, you can relax and recover from your journey or explore the nearby streets filled with shops, cafes, and cultural landmarks. In the evening, your trekking guide will brief you about the upcoming journey, including route details, safety guidelines, altitude awareness, and necessary preparations. You will also have time to check your trekking gear and make any last-minute purchases if needed.

Day 2: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150m)

After breakfast, you take a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, located in the lowland Terai region of western Nepal. The flight offers views of hills gradually transitioning into flat plains. Nepalgunj has a completely different climate—warmer and more humid compared to Kathmandu. After reaching, you can explore the local markets, experience the cultural diversity of the region, and prepare for the early morning mountain flight. This day helps position you closer to the remote Dolpo region.

Day 3: Fly to Juphal (2,475m) and Trek to Dunai (2,140m) – 3–4 hours

Early in the morning, you board a small aircraft for a scenic flight to Juphal. The flight itself is an adventure, offering spectacular views of the Himalayan foothills and remote landscapes. After landing at the small mountain airstrip, your trek begins with a gentle descent through terraced farmlands and local villages. You walk along the Thuli Bheri River, passing fields, stone houses, and friendly locals. The trail is relatively easy, making it a good introduction to trekking in Dolpo. You reach Dunai, a lively administrative center, where you spend the night.

Day 4: Dunai to Chhepka (2,670m) – 5–6 hours

Today, the trail officially enters Shey Phoksundo National Park. You begin by walking along the Phoksundo River, surrounded by lush greenery and pine forests. The path involves gradual ascents and descents, along with several suspension bridge crossings. You pass small settlements and checkpoints where permits are verified. The peaceful sound of the river and the dense forest environment make this section very enjoyable. As you gain altitude, the air becomes cooler and fresher. You finally arrive at Chhepka, a small village nestled in the forest.

Day 5: Chhepka to Jharana/Amchi Hospital (3,030m) – 5–6 hours

The trek continues through dense forest with occasional clearings that offer views of surrounding cliffs and cascading waterfalls. You walk along narrow trails carved into the hillsides and cross wooden bridges over flowing streams. The vegetation gradually begins to thin as you ascend higher. Along the way, you pass traditional villages and encounter locals engaged in farming and daily activities. The trail becomes more rugged and scenic as you approach the Jharana (waterfall) area, where you stay overnight near the famous Phoksundo waterfall region.

Day 6: Jharana to Ringmo Village (3,600m) – 4–5 hours

This is one of the most visually rewarding days of the trek. You begin by passing the spectacular Phoksundo waterfall, which drops dramatically from a high cliff. The trail then climbs along a narrow path carved into steep rocky cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the valley below. As you continue, the landscape changes into a more barren and alpine environment. Suddenly, the deep turquoise waters of Shey Phoksundo Lake come into view, creating a stunning contrast with the surrounding terrain. A short walk brings you to Ringmo village, a traditional settlement with stone houses and strong Tibetan cultural influence.

Day 7: Exploration Day at Shey Phoksundo Lake (3,612m)

This day is dedicated to rest, acclimatization, and exploration. You can take a leisurely hike along the lake’s shoreline, enjoying different perspectives of its crystal-clear turquoise water. You may also visit Tshowa Monastery, an ancient Bon religious site that reflects the spiritual heritage of the region. The surrounding cliffs, reflections on the lake, and peaceful environment create a truly magical experience. This day allows your body to adjust to the altitude while giving you time to fully appreciate one of Nepal’s most beautiful natural wonders.

Day 8: Ringmo to Chhepka (2,670m) – 6–7 hours

After enjoying your time at the lake, you begin your return journey. The descent follows the same trail, but the scenery feels different as you view it from a new perspective. Walking downhill is easier, allowing you to cover more distance comfortably. You pass the waterfall area again and re-enter the forest zone. The trail winds through pine forests and along the river, eventually bringing you back to Chhepka for an overnight stay.

Day 9: Chhepka to Juphal (2,475m) – 6–7 hours

On your final trekking day, you continue descending along the familiar trail, passing through villages, forests, and river valleys. You reach Dunai again and take a short break before climbing gradually toward Juphal. This last section may feel slightly challenging after a long walk, but reaching Juphal marks the successful completion of your trek. You can celebrate the journey with your trekking team and enjoy your final night in the mountains.

Day 10: Fly Juphal to Nepalgunj, then to Kathmandu

You take an early morning flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj, followed by a connecting flight to Kathmandu. Weather conditions in this region can sometimes cause delays, so flexibility is important. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you are transferred to your hotel. You can spend the rest of the day relaxing, enjoying a hot shower, exploring the city, or shopping for souvenirs.

Day 11: Final Departure

Your memorable journey to Shey Phoksundo Lake comes to an end today. Depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to the airport for your international departure. You leave Nepal with unforgettable memories of remote landscapes, unique culture, and one of the most beautiful lakes in the Himalayas.