Trip Highlights
Shey Phoksundo Lake: A breathtaking turquoise lake nestled in the remote Dolpo region, Shey Phoksundo is Nepal’s deepest lake and one of its most mesmerizing natural wonders. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs, alpine forests, and ancient Tibetan culture, this hidden gem offers an unforgettable journey off the beaten path.
Immerse yourself in the ancient Bon culture and spiritual heritage of Dolpo, one of the most remote and mystical regions of Nepal. With deep-rooted traditions predating Buddhism, Bon offers a rare glimpse into centuries-old rituals, unique architecture, and a way of life shaped by the harsh beauty of the Himalayas.
Dunai Bazaar, the historic heart of the Dolpo region, is a charming old market town nestled along the banks of the Thuli Bheri River. As the administrative and cultural hub of Dolpo, it blends traditional Tibetan-influenced architecture with the vibrant daily life of locals. A gateway for trekkers and traders alike, Dunai offers a glimpse into the enduring spirit of mountain communities.
Reach the breathtaking viewpoint of Shey Phoksundo Lake at an elevation of 4,000 meters, where the turquoise waters stretch out beneath towering cliffs and snow-capped peaks. This panoramic spot offers a stunning perspective of Nepal’s deepest lake an unforgettable reward for those who venture into the heart of Dolpo.
Trip Overview
Dolpo is the largest territorial district in Nepal. It is certainly one of the most beautiful and splendid places. The exotic sites and natural sceneries lure people all over the world, thus making it a must-visit destination. Dolpo has been captured beautifully on film by the renowned director Eric Valli in his movie “Caravan”.
Dolpo’s Phoksundo Lake is regarded as one of the most scenic and beautiful natural tourist destinations in Nepal. Mirroring the snowy Kanjiroba massif, the turquoise lake waters look heavenly. No wonder this lake is regarded as sacred by Buddhists and followers of the Bon-Po religion.
The Phoksundo Teahouse Trek is Dolpo’s only teahouse trek. This trek is fairly easy as no high passes are involved. The trek starts from Juphal, where the only airstrip in Dolpo is located. The trail passes through wonderful Himalayan forests and picturesque traditional villages. The rivers and waterfalls on the trail are some of Nepal’s most magnificent. In addition to natural beauty, the trekking area is also rich in wildlife. One may get to see some endangered species like the snow leopard, musk deer, blue sheep, great Tibetan sheep, Himalayan tahr, etc. Within the Shey Phoksundo National Park lies our destination, Phoksundo Lake.
This trek is less expensive and follows a shorter route. We will be staying in tea houses or lodges throughout the trek. We shall take our meals at tea houses. The food will be simple and nutritious. Backpackers can also do this trek. The company will provide a local guide. But in case you don’t need a guide, then the company will take out the trekking permit for you for a fee. We plan your trip with a high level of efficiency, so that you may have the most memorable experience.
Detailed Itinerary
As you fly into Kathmandu, the views of snow-capped mountain peaks greet you. A representative and driver from our office will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. The representative will help you check into your designated hotel. At the hotel you will be briefed about your daily activities.
From Kathmandu, we fly on any domestic carrier to Nepalgunj. Nepalgunj, a town in the western Terai , is very close to the Indian border and the Bardia National Park. It is a major transport hub for the western, mid-western, and far-western regions of Nepal. Overnight at a hotel or lodge.
Today we take a 35-minute long flight to Juphal- the trek starting point to Phoksundo Lake. As we begin the trek, the trail ascends southeast high above Thulo Bheri Valley followed by an hour-long walk through maize fields to reach the village of Kalagaunda. We trek by the southern bank of the Bheri River past Roop Ghar with the water mill and finally reach the village of Dunai (2145m). Dunai is quite a big mountainous town with schools, health posts, government offices, police stations, and tourist class lodges. We will stay overnight in one of the lodges in Dunai. Probably at Pala Guest House.
Today we begin the trek descending down through the streets of Dunai Town to cross the bridge over Bheri River. Then we chase the northern bank of the river for an hour to reach Sulighat. Then we head north to reach Shey Phoksundo National Park Check Post. Beyond the checkpost, we gradually climb up along the rock-strewn trail that lies above the serpentine Suli Ghad Khola. As the trail stretches higher through the series of hemp trees we arrive at Kageni. Further trekking through a beautiful tropical forest dominated by walnut and maple trees, we begin to see the first glimpses of Tibetan culture. Savoring the views of fluttering prayer flags, floral and faunal biodiversity, cascading waterfalls, and lush vegetation we arrive at the village of Shyanta 2520m. Almost ninety minutes of uphill trek from Shyanta along the narrow trail brings us to Chhepka 2670m. Overnight in a lodge at Chhepka..
We rise early in the morning and after breakfast make our way towards Jharana hotel. The trail climbs through a forest of big cedars and on a winter settlement used by the people of Ringmo village. The route climbs steadily through open country to an elevation of 3370m. We get a close view of a spectacular 330–meter–high waterfall, the highest in Nepal, and a faraway view of Phoksundo Lake. We stopped for the night at the Jharana (waterfall) Hotel.
Today as we make our way to Ringmo, we make a steep descent through birch forests to the upper reaches of the Phoksundo Khola. We cross a bridge and follow a trail north to the ranger station at Phoksundo Lake. We continue to the shores of the lake near the point where the Phoksundo Khola (river) flows out of the lake. The final push through the Phoksundo River gully, we emerge to the yak-filled meadows of Ringmo, a popular Bon Village in the region. Ringmo has a few lodges/homestays, where we are going to settle down for the night.
Today we explore the area around Ringmo’s magnificent Phoksundo Lake. First, we explore Ringmo Village and head to Tshowa (the lake-shore Bon Monastery). The Gompa nestling a ridge top above Phoksundo Lake was built about 900 years ago. Exploring this culturally rich Bon Monastery is a fascinating experience. Then we drop down to Phoksundo Lake along steep-sided cliffs. The lake is famous for its magnificent turquoise color and spectacular scenery. Ringmo village, a typical Tibetan village, has a scenic view from Phoksundo Lake. Many beautiful glaciers can be found near and above the lake area. There are many monasteries (Gompas) and Bon-po religious sites at the park and we spend our time visiting some of these. We also explore the wonderful natural sites and enjoy our nature tour.
After an enjoyable and insightful teahouse trek to Phoksundo Lake, we trek along the retracing trail to Chhepka. We stayed overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast, we continue the trek along the retracing trail that brings us to Juphal. After 6-7 hrs of pleasant walk through a culturally and naturally diverse trail, we arrive at Juphal. Overnight in a lodge at Juphal.
Early morning, we walk to the airport in Juphal from where we fly to the airport in Nepalgunj. At Nepalgunj, we board a plane that directly connects us to Kathmandu. On arriving in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the time is free time.
Today is a buffer day in Kathmandu, set aside in case of flight delays or cancellations, common in mountain regions. It’s a great chance to relax and prepare for departure if everything runs smoothly. Spend the morning enjoying a slow breakfast, organising your bags, and wrapping up any last-minute tasks. In the afternoon, explore the markets of Thamel or Patan for souvenirs like pashmina shawls, singing bowls, and prayer flags. End the day with a rooftop dinner, reflecting on your journey and soaking in your final views of Nepal.
Today, we will escort you to Tribhuvan International Airport as per your flight schedule back home. We will see you off pleasantly. Have a safe flight back home.
