Shey Phoksundo lake trek is one of the popular tourist destinations as this trek offers stunning mountains and scenic landscapes. This trek is known for crystal clear blue waters that reflect the sky and Kanjiroba mountain range. The lake is the pilgrimage site for Buddhists. Phoksundo lake trek is situated in the Dolpo region in the mid-western region of Nepal at an elevation of 3,610m above sea level and covers around 4.8 square kilometers.
Shey Phoksundo Lake offers you a stunning view of mountains and provides an opportunity to observe the unique culture and lifestyle of the Dolpo region and the opportunity to connect with nature. During the trek, you will encounter remote villages, ancient monasteries, and untouched forests.
Shey Phoksundo Lake trip highlights
- Stunning mountains and scenic landscape.
- Crystal-clear blue waters.
- Unique culture and lifestyle of the Dolpo region.
- Kanjiroba mountain range.
Permit
You need to buy a Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) card, the guiding company will arrange the card. This card plays a role in trekking in Nepal and the safety of trekkers, this card costs $30. Shey Phoksundo National Park permit costs Rs 3,000 Nepalese.
The difficulty of Shey Phoksundo Lake
The hike is challenging which is off the main road. Trekking in lower Dolpo is easier because the trail is well-marked. There are fewer chances of acute mountain sickness, however, the lake lies at an elevation of 3,610m, and the acclimatization is not essential. Every day you will gain 500m which is not difficult. Trekkers should be fit to climb mountains.
Best time to trek
The best season for Shey Phoksundo Lake is September to November and March to May when the weather will be clear. You will witness the amazing view of the Himalayas and the clear blue sky. This trek can be dangerous in mosson season and slippery roads, this trek is not suitable during monsoon season.
Itinerary for Shey Phoksundo Lake
Day 1. Kathmandu to Nepalgunj
You will fly to Nepalgunj from Tribhuwan International Airport. Nepalgunj lies in the Terai region of Nepal near to India border.
Day 2. Nepalgunj to Juphal by flight and trek to Dunai (2,140m)
You will take another flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal, and start your trek from Juphal and starting point of Phoksundo Lake Trek. You will start your trek from Juphal to Denai, it will take 3 hours to reach Dunai. The trail leads us from Thulo Bheri Valley, Bheri River, and Kaladhunga
Day 3. Dunai to Chhepka (2,660m)
You will descend Sulighat crossing the Bheri River. You will be trekking from the northern part of Shey Phoksundo National Park check post. The trail continues to Suli Ghad River and Kageni experiencing Tibetan culture. You will reach the destination in 6-7 hours.
Day 4. Chhepka to Jharna Waterfall (2,500m)
Today is the best day for a trek you will get the sight amazing of Phoksundo Lake. You will get to explore Jarna Waterfall and which is one of Nepal’s highest waterfalls. You will get an amazing view of Shey Phoksundo Lake and Jharna Waterfall, which will take around 6-7 hours walk to reach there.
Day 5. Jharna Waterfall to Tibetan Ringmo (3,460m)
On this day we will hike to Jharna Waterfall crossing the bridges and passing from the ranger station. You will explore the culture and traditions of the local people. It will take around 4 hours to reach Ringmo.
Day 6. Explore Shey Phoksundo Lake and Tshowa Gompa
Today you will explore Phoksundo Lake and explore Tshowa Gompa near Phoksundo Lake. Tshowa Gompa is known as a 900-year-old monastery. You will encounter crystal clear blue waters that reflect the sky and Kanjiroba mountain range. It is believed that under the Phoksundo Lake, it lies an underwater palace. You will stay overnight at Ringmo Village.
Day 7. Back to Chekkpa Village
After exploring Phoksundo Lake you will trek back to Chekkpa Village. It will take around 6-7 hours to reach Chekkpa Village.
Day 8. Chekkpa to Juphal
You will trek back to Juphal which takes 6-7 hours. You will stay overnight at Juphal
Day 9. Juphal to Kathmandu
Fly back to Kathmandu.
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