Overview

The Dolpo Phoksundo Lake Trek with Peaceful Treks is a remote and culturally rich Himalayan adventure in western Nepal, leading trekkers to Phoksundo Lake, one of Nepal’s most beautiful and sacred turquoise lakes. Nestled in the Shey Phoksundo National Park, the trek offers stunning views of Dolpo’s snow-capped peaks, high-altitude valleys, and pristine landscapes.

The trail passes through ancient Tibetan Buddhist villages, monasteries, mani walls, and prayer flags, offering an authentic experience of Tibetan culture and Bon traditions. Trekkers traverse rugged mountain terrain, deep river gorges, high alpine meadows, and dense forests while experiencing the solitude of one of Nepal’s least-visited regions.

With well-planned acclimatization, experienced guides, porter support, and teahouse or lodge accommodations, the Dolpo Phoksundo Lake Trek is ideal for physically fit trekkers seeking a challenging and off-the-beaten-path Himalayan adventure. The best trekking seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when skies are clear, the weather is favorable, and the landscapes are vibrant. Peaceful Treks offers well structured trekking packages and tailored travel options for this unforgettable journey.

Key Highlights – Dolpo Phoksundo Lake Trek

  • Trek to Phoksundo Lake, Nepal’s sacred turquoise lake

  • Explore remote Tibetan Buddhist villages and ancient monasteries

  • Experience manis, chortens, and prayer flags reflecting local spiritual traditions

  • Panoramic views of Dolpo’s snow-capped peaks and Himalayan ranges

  • Trek through rugged valleys, deep gorges, alpine meadows, and dense forests

  • Visit Shey Phoksundo National Park, home to unique wildlife such as snow leopards and blue sheep

  • Off-the-beaten-path trek for solitude and authentic Himalayan culture

  • Stay in teahouses or local lodges along the trail

  • Best trekking seasons: spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November)

Itinerary

Day
1
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m)

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, transfer to your hotel. Evening trek briefing. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day
2
Fly to Nepalgunj & Domestic Flight to Juphal (2,500m)

Fly to Nepalgunj, then onward domestic flight to Juphal, the starting point of the trek. Overnight in Juphal.

Max Alt: 2500m
Day
3
Juphal to Dunai (2,070m)

Trek along river valleys and small villages, enjoying the serene Dolpo landscapes. Overnight in Dunai.

Max Alt: 2070m
Day
4
Dunai to Saldang (3,650m)

Ascend gradually through traditional Dolpo villages, terraced fields, and past ancient monasteries. Overnight in Saldang.

Max Alt: 3650m
Day
5
Acclimatization Day in Saldang

Explore Saldang village, monasteries, and cultural sites. Prepare for higher altitude trekking. Overnight in Saldang.

Max Alt: 3650m
Day
6
Saldang to Ringmo (3,630m)

Trek through alpine valleys and past stone chortens and mani walls, arriving at Ringmo village near Phoksundo Lake. Overnight in Ringmo.

Max Alt: 3630m
Day
7
Phoksundo Lake Exploration

Spend the day exploring Phoksundo Lake, observing its turquoise waters and surrounding cliffs, and visiting local Bonpo monasteries. Overnight near the lake.

Day
8
Ringmo to Shey Village (4,120m)

Trek through high alpine terrain, passing small hamlets and yak pastures. Overnight in Shey Village.

Max Alt: 4120m
Day
9
Shey Village to Sangda (3,650m)

Descend gradually through alpine meadows, traditional villages, and scenic landscapes to Sangda. Overnight in Sangda.

Max Alt: 3650m
Day
10
Sangda to Dunai

Trek back along the lower valleys to Dunai. Overnight in Dunai.

Day
11
Fly to Nepalgunj & Kathmandu

Domestic flight to Nepalgunj, then onward flight to Kathmandu. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day
12
Departure from Kathmandu

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for onward journey.

Map Route

Dolpo Phoksundo Lake Trek

Included

  • Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu
  • Accommodation in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu
  • Teahouse or lodge accommodation during trekking
  • Full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during trekking days
  • Experienced English-speaking Peaceful Treks guides
  • Porter support (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
  • Domestic flights Nepalgunj–Juphal–Nepalgunj
  • Shey Phoksundo National Park entry permit and TIMS card
  • First-aid kit and emergency support
  • Trek briefing, route planning, and ongoing support from Peaceful Treks

Excluded

  • International airfare to and from Nepal
  • Nepal visa fees
  • Travel and medical insurance (mandatory)
  • Personal expenses (hot showers, Wi-Fi, snacks, drinks)
  • Tips for guides, porters, or drivers
  • Equipment rental not listed in the gear section
  • Extra costs due to weather, flight delays, or itinerary changes
  • Any expenses not mentioned in inclusions

Gear List

    • Down or insulated jacket
    • Fleece or warm mid-layers
    • Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
    • Trekking pants
    • Waterproof jacket and trousers
    • Warm hat, gloves, scarf, or balaclava
    • Trekking socks
    • Sturdy trekking boots
    • Sandals or camp shoes
    • Daypack (30–40L)
    • Sleeping bag (rated to –15°C)
    • Trekking poles
    • Sunglasses with UV protection
    • Headlamp with spare batteries
    • Reusable water bottles or hydration bladder
    • Sunscreen and lip balm
    • Personal medications and toiletries
    • Quick-dry towel and wet wipes
    • Camera and power bank
Welcome to the Beta Version of Peaceful Himalaya Treks

We're still working on some features, so check back soon for updates. Thank you for your patience!