Shey Phoksundo Trek
The Shey Phoksundo Trek is a spectacular journey into the remote and mystical Dolpo region of western Nepal, taking you to the breathtaking turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake. Located within Shey-Phoksundo National Park, the trek offers a unique combination of pristine wilderness, dramatic mountain landscapes, waterfalls, forests, and traditional Himalayan villages.
Unlike Nepal’s more commercial trekking routes, the Shey Phoksundo Trek provides a peaceful and authentic experience away from the crowds. The challenging trails require good physical fitness, with several days of 6–7 hours of trekking. Along the way, trekkers can experience the unique Tibetan-influenced culture, traditions, and lifestyle of the people of Dolpo. With its stunning natural beauty, untouched landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, the Shey Phoksundo Trek is an ideal adventure for those seeking a truly remote and unforgettable Himalayan experience.
Shey Phoksundo Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrive in Kathmandu (1,400 m) and transfer to your hotel. Take some time to relax and prepare for your upcoming adventure in the remote Dolpo region.
Day 2: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj
Take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, a city in southwestern Nepal near the Indian border. Enjoy a relaxing evening and prepare for the next day’s journey.
Overnight: Hotel in Nepalgunj
Day 3: Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal and Trek to Dunai
Take a short scenic flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal Airport, the gateway to the Dolpo region. From Juphal, begin your trek toward Dunai, the administrative center of Dolpo.
Trekking time: 3 hours
Day 4: Dunai to Chhepka
Begin the trek from Dunai and follow the trail through beautiful forests, traditional villages, and along the Thuli Bheri River toward Chhepka.
Trekking time: 7–8 hours | Distance: 15 km
Day 5: Chhepka to Saijol
Continue trekking deeper into the remote Dolpo region. The trail passes through peaceful forests, mountain landscapes, and small settlements before reaching Saijol.
Trekking time: 6–7 hours
Day 6: Saijol to Ringmo Village and Phoksundo Lake
Trek from Saijol toward the spectacular Phoksundo Lake, passing through dramatic landscapes and the famous Phoksundo Waterfall. Reach Ringmo Village and explore the beautiful turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake. Visit Thasung Tsoling Gonpa, an important Buddhist monastery in the area.
Trekking time: 4 hours | Distance: 9 km
Day 7: Explore Phoksundo Lake and Viewpoint
Spend the day exploring the stunning surroundings of Phoksundo Lake. Hike to the Phoksundo Lake viewpoint for breathtaking views of the turquoise lake, surrounding mountains, and Ringmo Village.
Hiking time: 3–5 hours
Overnight: Ringmo Village
Day 8: Ringmo Village to Chhepka
Begin the return journey from Ringmo Village to Chhepka. Retrace the scenic trail through forests and mountain landscapes while enjoying different perspectives of the Dolpo wilderness.
Trekking time: 6–7 hours
Day 9: Chhepka to Juphal
Continue trekking toward Juphal, passing through forests, villages, and beautiful valleys. This marks the final trekking day of the Shey Phoksundo adventure.
Trekking time: 5–6 hours
Day 10: Fly from Juphal to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj
Take a morning flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj and continue your flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 11: Departure from Kathmandu
Depending on your flight schedule, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey, taking home unforgettable memories of the remote and beautiful Dolpo region.
