Phoksundo Lake Trek
Remote & Off-Beaten Region

Phoksundo Lake Trek

Difficulty Moderate
Duration 11 Days
Max. Altitude 3,611m
Best Season Spring & Autumn
Lodging & Meals Tea House / Camping

Phoksundo Lake

The Phoksundo Lake Trek is an ideal journey for those seeking the breathtaking beauty of the remote Dolpo region without the extreme physical demands of high-altitude pass crossings. The trek winds through the Shey Phoksundo National Park, leading you to Nepal's deepest and arguably most beautiful lake, Phoksundo. Surrounded by glaciers and snow-capped peaks, the lake's mesmerizing color is an unforgettable sight. The region is rich in Bon culture, an ancient animistic religion. You will visit Ringmo village and the historic Tshowa Gompa situated on the lake's edge. This trek provides a perfect combination of stunning landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and fascinating cultural encounters.

Phoksundo Lake Trek landscape view
Phoksundo Lake Trek landscape view
Signature Experiences

Expedition Highlights

01

Witness the breathtaking, vividly turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake.

02

Explore the traditional Tibetan-style village of Ringmo.

03

Visit the 900-year-old Tshowa Gompa, an important Bon religious site.

04

Trek through the diverse landscapes of Shey Phoksundo National Park.

05

Experience spectacular views of the Kanjiroba Himal.

Trail Logs & Itinerary

1
Trekking Day Max Elev: 3,611m

Take an afternoon flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, a vibrant city in the western Terai. Relax at your hotel and prepare for the journey ahead. We embark on a scenic journey today, taking either a spectacular domestic flight or a drive along winding mountain roads, passing lush terraced fields, fast-flowing rivers, and traditional hillside villages. The changing scenery guides us closer to the starting point of our trek in the heart of the Himalayas.

2
Trekking Day Max Elev: 3,611m

An early morning, scenic mountain flight takes you to the airstrip at Juphal. Begin trekking down to the Bheri River and follow the relatively flat trail to Dunai. We embark on a scenic journey today, taking either a spectacular domestic flight or a drive along winding mountain roads, passing lush terraced fields, fast-flowing rivers, and traditional hillside villages. The changing scenery guides us closer to the starting point of our trek in the heart of the Himalayas.

3
Trekking Day Max Elev: 3,611m

Follow the trail along the Phoksundo River. Walk through lush forests of pine and cedar, crossing suspension bridges and passing small settlements to reach Chhepka.

4
Trekking Day Max Elev: 3,611m

Continue ascending through thick forests. The trail can be steep in sections. Arrive at a viewpoint offering spectacular sights of Nepal's highest waterfall, the Jharana Waterfall. We walk in the footsteps of ancient nomads, passing high-altitude pastures and pristine streams. The silence and scale of the Dolpo landscape provide an unparalleled sense of solitude and adventure.

5
Trekking Day Max Elev: 3,611m

A short but steep climb takes you closer to your destination. As you crest the ridge, the stunning, turquoise Phoksundo Lake comes into view. Descend to the shores and the village of Ringmo. Today is the ultimate challenge. We wake up under a freezing, starlit sky and begin our ascent, using ropes, crampons, and ice axes as we navigate steep snow and ice slopes. Reaching the summit rewards us with a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the world's highest peaks, a moment of pure triumph.

6
Trekking Day Max Elev: 3,611m

Spend the day acclimatizing and exploring. Walk along the lake's edge, visit the ancient Tshowa Gompa built on a ridge above the lake, and experience the unique Bon culture of Ringmo.

7
Trekking Day Max Elev: 3,611m

Begin your return journey. The trail descends steadily along the Phoksundo River, retracing your steps through the beautiful forests back to Chhepka.

8
Trekking Day Max Elev: 3,611m

Continue descending towards Dunai, then take the familiar trail back up to the airstrip at Juphal. Enjoy your final evening in the Dolpo region. We walk in the footsteps of ancient nomads, passing high-altitude pastures and pristine streams. The silence and scale of the Dolpo landscape provide an unparalleled sense of solitude and adventure.

9
Trekking Day Max Elev: 3,611m

Take an early morning flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj, followed by a connecting flight back to Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel for rest and relaxation.

Inclusions

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle.
  • Standard teahouse/lodge accommodation during the trek.
  • All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek.
  • An experienced, English-speaking, and government-licensed trekking guide.
  • Porter service (1 porter for every 2 trekkers).
  • All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (TIMS, National Park Fees).
  • A comprehensive medical kit carried by the guide.
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu to celebrate the successful trek.

Exclusions

  • International flight airfare.
  • Nepal entry visa fee (obtainable on arrival at Kathmandu airport).
  • Travel and rescue insurance (mandatory).
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters).
  • Tips for guide and porters (customary but not mandatory).

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Unlike popular regions like Everest or Annapurna, remote regions (like Manaslu, Dolpo, or Kanchenjunga) have simpler teahouses or require camping. Facilities are basic, featuring shared squat toilets and limited hot water.
Many remote borders require Restricted Area Permits (RAPs) and must be hiked with a registered guide and a minimum of two trekkers. Our agency handles all permit processing for you.
Charging is mostly solar-powered and available at lower teahouses for a fee. Wi-Fi is rare or non-existent in remote villages. We recommend bringing a high-capacity power bank and a local SIM card.
The trails are less developed, more rugged, and see very few tourists. You should expect steep ascents, high mountain passes (like Larkya La at 5,106m), and long walking days over challenging terrain.
Since there are absolutely no ATMs in remote regions, you must withdraw sufficient cash in Nepalese Rupees in Kathmandu. We recommend budgeting at least 2,500 Rupees ($20 USD) per day for personal expenses.
You should pack high-quality gear: a warm sleeping bag (rated to -15°C), broken-in trekking boots, thermal layers, water purification tools, basic toiletries, and a small personal first-aid kit with altitude medication.