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Phoksundo Lake trek

The trek to Phoksundo Lake offers a captivating journey through the rugged landscapes of the Dolpo region in western Nepal. Starting from Jhupal, trekkers traverse diverse terrain, including lush forests, charming villages, and dramatic gorges. The highlight of the trek is reaching Phoksundo Lake, a stunning turquoise gem nestled amidst towering Himalayan peaks. Along the way, trekkers encounter local culture, including traditional Bon and Buddhist monasteries, and experience the warm hospitality of the Dolpo people. The trek provides an unforgettable adventure in one of Nepal's most remote and breathtaking regions.
Max. Altitude: 3,640 m (11942.2572 ft.)
Group size: 2-14
Duration: 11 Days
Meals: Full Board on trekking ( bed & breakfast at Kathmandu )
Best Time for Visit: April-June & September-November
Transportation: flight
Activity: Tea house trekking.
Difficulty: moderate
Accommodation: At hotels and tea houses during treks.
Region: Dolpo
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Trip Duration
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Highlights of Phoksundo Lake trek.

  • Phoksundo Lake: A stunning turquoise gem nestled amidst towering Himalayan peaks, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and tranquil atmosphere.
  • Dolpo Culture: Encounters with the unique culture of the Dolpo people, including visits to traditional Bon and Buddhist monasteries, and experiencing the warm hospitality of the locals.
  • Dramatic Landscapes: Trekking through diverse terrain, including lush forests, charming villages, rugged gorges, and expansive meadows, offering breathtaking views at every turn.
  • Remote Wilderness: Immersion in the remote wilderness of the Dolpo region, with opportunities to witness untouched natural beauty and encounter rare wildlife.
  • Adventure and Exploration: A sense of adventure and exploration as you trek through remote trails, crossing high mountain passes and exploring hidden valleys.
  • Overall, the Phoksundo Lake trek promises an unforgettable experience amidst some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Himalayas.

Overview

Embarking on the Phoksundo Lake trek is a journey through the untouched wilderness of Dolpo, Nepal, spanning 11 days. It’s an odyssey of natural splendor, cultural immersion, and soul-stirring mountain vistas.

The adventure starts with a scenic flight to Juphal, the gateway to the trek. Trekkers enter a landscape of timeless beauty, where every step reveals new wonders. Picture-perfect villages, verdant forests, and cascading waterfalls adorn the path, painting a vivid tapestry of nature’s bounty.

In Dolpo’s rugged terrain, snow-capped peaks tower above deep gorges and alpine lakes. Yet, stands as the crowning jewel of the journey.

Nestled amidst towering cliffs and pristine wilderness, Phoksundo Lake enchants with its tranquil waters and breathtaking beauty. Travelers can linger in awe, soaking in the serenity of this sacred place. Each glance offers a new perspective on nature’s wonders.

The Phoksundo Lake trek isn’t just about the landscape; it’s also a journey into Nepalese culture. Along the way, trekkers encounter traditional Tibetan Buddhist villages, where vibrant prayer flags flutter and ancient monasteries echo with monks’ chants. Local warmth and hospitality offer insights into centuries-old traditions.

As the trek progresses, vistas unfold like pages in a storybook. From high mountain passes to lush valleys and remote alpine meadows, it offers a glimpse into a world untouched by time.

Each day, navigating rugged terrain and absorbing the beauty, trekkers forge lasting memories. The Phoksundo Lake trek isn’t just a physical journey; it’s a spiritual odyssey, connecting with nature, culture, and oneself in Nepal’s remote and beautiful region.

Itinenary

Upon arriving at Kathmandu International Airport, our guide and staff will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in the heart of Kathmandu city.

After checking into your hotel room and refreshing yourself from the flight, our expert guides will brief you on hotels, trekking details, local lodges, overland drives, and essential dos and don’ts.

  Elevation Gain : 1350m/4429.134

In the morning, you can wander through the streets of Thamel or visit the Garden of Dreams, a peaceful oasis amidst the bustling streets of Kathmandu. Later today, you will fly to Nepalgunj, a town located in the western Terai region near the Indian border, serving as the gateway to the Far West.

  Elevation Loss : 1200m/3937.008ft.
  Fly Time : 1 hrs

Today, you will fly to Juphal, situated at an elevation of 8,210 feet, marking the beginning of the trek to Phoksundo Lake. The trail initially ascends southeast, offering panoramic views high above the Thulo Bheri Valley. It then meanders through maize fields until reaching the village of Kalagaunda. Following the southern bank of the Bheri River, Roop Ghar will be passed, where a traditional water mill can be observed, before the village of Dunai, situated at an altitude of 7,035 feet, is ultimately arrived at.

  Elevation Gain : 2325m/7627.953ft.
  Elevation Loss : 335m/1099.08ft.
  Trekking Duration : 2-3 hrs
  Fly Time : 45 min

Descend through Dunai’s streets and cross the bridge over the Bheri River. Follow the river’s northern bank to Sulighat, then head north to the Shey Phoksundo National Park check-post. Climb above the winding Suli Ghad River through hemp trees to Kageni, then through a tropical walnut and maple forest, where Tibetan culture begins to appear. Enjoy views of fluttering prayer flags, cascading waterfalls, and lush vegetation on the way to Shyanta village at 8,268 feet. Another hour-and-a-half uphill walk along a narrow trail leads to Chhepka village at 8,760 feet.

  Elevation Gain : 698m/2290.03ft.
  Trekking Distance : 15 to 18 km
  Trekking Duration : 7-8 hrs

Wake up early for the trek to Jharana Waterfall. The trail ascends through a cedar forest to a winter settlement utilized by the residents of Ringmo village. Continuing on, the route steadily climbs through open terrain, reaching an elevation of 11,056 feet, where we will spend the night at Jharana. Your efforts will be rewarded with a close-up view of the magnificent 1,083-foot Jharana Waterfall, one of the tallest in Nepal, along with distant views of Phoksundo Lake.

  Trekking Duration : 5–6 hrs

As you journey towards Ringmo at an elevation of 11,350 feet, you will trek through birch forests towards the upper reaches of the Phoksundo River. Cross a bridge and follow the trail north to the ranger station at Phoksundo Lake. After a final push through the Phoksundo River gully, you will arrive at the yak-filled meadows of Ringmo, a Tibetan Bon village, where you will spend the night.

  Elevation Gain : 860m/2821.52ft
  Trekking Distance : 5 to 7 km
  Trekking Duration : 3-4 hrs

Today, you will explore the stunning surroundings of Phoksundo Lake. Begin by exploring Ringmo village before visiting Tshowa Gompa, a 900-year-old Bon monastery situated on a ridge overlooking the lake. Descend along the steep cliffs to reach the lake. Phoksundo Lake is considered sacred by Buddhists and followers of the Bonpo religion, as they believe it houses an underwater palace and a tantric mandala of spirits. Renowned for its striking turquoise color and breathtaking scenery, the lake is also surrounded by beautiful glaciers.

  Elevation Gain : 840m/2755.91ft

Today, you will trek back to Chhepka. Begin by heading towards Sulighad, following a stream that originates from the lake. Along the way, you will pass through the village of Renje, trekking through fir and larch forests alongside the Sulighat river before reaching Chhepka at an elevation of 8,268 feet.

  Elevation Loss : 710m/2329.4ft.
  Trekking Distance : 15 to 20 km
  Trekking Duration : 6hrs

After breakfast, retrace the trail to Juphal through beautiful forests, fields, and villages.

  Elevation Loss : 375m/1230.31ft.
  Trekking Duration : 6–7 hrs

Early in the morning, you will take a flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj and then proceed to Kathmandu, where you will be transferred to your hotel. The afternoon is yours to either enjoy some sightseeing or relax at your hotel.

Last day in Nepal after a wonderful experience and adventure on Phoksundo Lake trek with great service of Lhasso Adventure, and as per your international flight then transfer to Kathmandu international airport for homeward bound or to your respective destinations.

Cost Includes

  • All ground transportation as per itinerary private/local.
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara at 3 star hotel with twin sharing basis and breakfast as per the itinerary.
  • Accommodation in tea house and meal on full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trek.
  • Experienced trekking guide and porters on trek.
  • Accommodation, food, drinks, salary, insurance, transportation of the trek guides and porters.
  • All additional government and local taxes.
  • All necessary documents and trekking permits.
  • Flight tickets kathmandu-Nepalgunj- Jhupal- kathmandu
  • Farewell dinner in a Nepalese restaurant on your last evening in Kathmandu.

Cost Excludes

  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Bar bills, telephone bills and other personal expenses (shopping/ laundry)
  • All expenses due to unavoidable events e.g. flight cancellation, personal illness, strike, etc
  • Personal trekking gears, sleeping bags, down jackets, etc.
  • Travel and emergency evacuation insurance of clients. Clients must have insured emergency evacuation.
  • Tip for guides, porters and drivers. (Minimum 10% of the whole trip cost.) according to our company rule.

Equipment

In addition to making trekking more enjoyable, having the appropriate gear guarantees your safety and readiness for a range of situations. Regardless of skill level, every hiker has to invest in high-quality equipment and understand how to utilize it properly. A delightful journey can differ from a difficult ordeal depending on the level of planning and equipment used. Please make your selections of the necessary equipment from the list below.

  Clothing

  • Down Or Fiber Filled Waterproof Jacket And Trousers
  • Fleece Jacket Or Pullover
  • Warm Cotton Trousers
  • Shirts And T-Shirts
  • Lightweight Cotton Long Pants
  • Sun Hat Or Scarf
  • Woolen Hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Raincoat

  Footwear

  • Trekking Boot
  • Thick Socks
  • Light Socks
  • Camp Shoes
  • Sandals

  Other Equipments

  • Sleeping Bag(4seasons)
  • Down Jacket
  • Daypack
  • Water Bottle
  • Sun Cream, Sunglasses

  Optional

  • Insect Repellent
  • Laundry Soap
  • Plasters
  • Cards And Personal Medical Kit
  • Toilet Articles
  • Pocketknife
  • Binoculars
  • Notebook & Pen
  • Towel
  • Camera
  • Toilet Roll
  • Sewing Kit
  • Film

frequently asked question for Phoksundo Lake trek.

Phoksundo Lake, also known as Shey Phoksundo Lake, is a stunning alpine freshwater lake located in the Dolpa District of Nepal. It is the deepest lake in Nepal and is known for its crystal-clear blue waters and beautiful surrounding landscapes.

Phoksundo Lake is situated in Shey Phoksundo National Park, in the Dolpa District of western Nepal.

The Phoksundo Lake trek typically takes around 8-12 days, depending on the starting point and the trekking pace.

The best time to trek to Phoksundo Lake is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these times, the weather is generally clear and stable, making for optimal trekking conditions.

The Phoksundo Lake trek is considered moderately difficult. Trekkers should be prepared for some steep ascents and descents, as well as variable weather conditions.

Trekkers need to obtain a Shey Phoksundo National Park entry permit and a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card.

Permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Nepalgunj, either through a or independently from the relevant offices.

Accommodation is typically in teahouses or lodges along the trekking route. These provide basic facilities, including meals and lodging.

Trekkers can expect simple, local meals, such as dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), noodles, soups, and Tibetan bread. Some teahouses may also offer limited Western dishes.

Yes, altitude sickness can be a concern as the trek involves reaching high altitudes. It is important to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness.

Your guide has basic first aid knowledge and will carry a first aid kit to assist with minor issues. In case of serious health problems, helicopter evacuation can be arranged. Please ensure your travel insurance covers helicopter evacuation.

Essential items include sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing, a good-quality sleeping bag, trekking poles, a first-aid kit, water purification tablets, and personal toiletries. It is also recommended to carry snacks, a headlamp, and extra batteries.

While it is possible to trek independently, hiring a guide and/or porter can enhance your experience and provide added safety. A guide can offer valuable local knowledge and ensure you stay on the correct trail.

The trek usually starts from Juphal, which is accessible by a short flight from Nepalgunj. Nepalgunj is a major city in southwestern Nepal, reachable by flight or road from Kathmandu.

If you have any more specific questions or need further details, feel free to ask!

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