Important Information

Region
Dolpo Region Treks
Duration
11 Days
Max Altitude 3640m
Best Season March - November
Activity Per Day
5-6 hrs
Grade
Level 3
Group Size
2 - 20 people
Transportation Flight - Jeep

“This trek will take you to Nepal’s highest waterfall and the turquoise lake- Shey Phoksundo.”  

Phoksundo Lake and the Ringmo village are the main highlights of this trek which is one of the most scenic and beautiful natural tourist destinations in Nepal. This trek is perfect for budget ramblers who love to see the beauty of nature in the remote. Phoksundo trek is a short and affordable trek within the Dolpo region where there are basic tea houses or lodges throughout the trek. The Phoksundo Teahouse Trek was started in 2017, Dolpo’s one and only teahouse trek and easy as well without the involvement of high passes.

Dolpo is one of the biggest districts of Nepal with the neighboring districts of Mustang on the south, Mugu and Jumla on the west, and Rukum on the North.  Dolpo region is the most incredible trek that you will ever experience in a lifetime, super remote, and dynamic than other treks in Nepal. Since 1980 this area is opened for international trekkers. This area is considered as a controlled area that requires a special permit which is very expensive as compared to Annapurna and Everest region. This is an ultimate trekking destination for those who love culture and less crowded or done with all trekking in Nepal and still looking for a more rewarding trip.

Himalayan Wander Walkers plan your trip with a high level of efficiency. So,  you will experience a safe and rewarding trip.

Highlights of the Trek

  • Explore the ancient salt trade route featured in the “Caravan” movie of Eric Valli.
  • Walking through Nepal's largest protected area.
  • Sleep at the lap of Snowy Mount Kanjirowa (6,883m).
  • Discover the Bon Po monastery in Ringmo village.
  • Experience the rewarding trip within a week.
  • Guided by a local expert who speaks both English and local language. 

Outline Itinerary ( 11 Days )

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu

Arrival in Kathmandu-Transfer to Hotel, Welcome assistance by Himalayan Wander Walkers representative at the Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to hotel, rest at the hotel and briefing about the trip. 
Overnight accommodation is set with BB Plan.

Day 2

Flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj

In the morning you can stroll in the streets of Thamel while we arrange all your trekking documents (TIMS & National Park Permit) . Then you collect all the necessary documents from our representative and drive to the domestic section of Kathmandu airport. 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 Nationl Park. It is a major transport hub for western, mid-western and far-western regions of Nepal. Overnight at hotel or lodge.

 

Day 3

Flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal/ (2475m) and Juphal to Dunai (2145m)/ 3 hrs trek

Today we take a 35 minutes 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 to reach the village of Kalagaunda. We trek by the southern bank of Bheri River and pass Roop Ghar with the water mill and finally reach the village of Dunai(2145m).Dunai is quite a big mountainous town with schools, health post, government offices, police station and tourist class lodges. We will stay overnight in one of the lodges in Dunai. 

 

Day 4

Dunai to Chhepka (2670m)/ 6-7 hrs trek

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 tree we arrive to Kageni. Further trekking through 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 to 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.

 

Day 5

Chhepka to Jharana Hotel/ 5-6 hrs Trek

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-metre –high waterfall, the highest in Nepal and a faraway view of Phoksundo lake. We stop for the night at Jharana (waterfall) Hotel.

 

Day 6

Jharana Hotel to Ringmo (3460m)/ 5-6 hrs trek

Today as we make our way to Ringmo, we make a steep descend 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 few lodges/homestays, where we are going to settle down for the night.

 

Day 7

Explore around Phoksundo Lake

 

 

Today we explore the area around the Ringmo magnificent Phoksundo Lake. First, we explore around 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 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, is 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.

 

Day 8

Phoksundo Lake to Chhepka (2520m)/ 6-7 hrs trek

After an enjoyable and insightful teahouse trek to Phoksundo Lake we trek along the retracing trail to Chhepka. We stay overnight at the hotel.

 

Day 9

Chhepka to Juphal

After the breakfast, we continue the trek along the retracing trail that brings us to Juphal. After 6-7 hrs of pleasant walk through culturally and naturally diverse trail we arrive to Juphal. Overnight in a lodge at Juphal.

 

Day 10

Juphal to Nepalgunj and then take a connecting flight to Kathmandu

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 Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. Rest of the time is free time.

 

Day 11

Depart from Kathmandu

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.

 

 

Include

Airport pick up and drop off
Taxi/bus to the start and end of the trek
English-speaking government license holder trekking guide
Porter/mules
Flight (Ktm-Nepalgunj-Juphal-Nepalgunj-Kathmandu)
Trekking guide’s and porter’s insurance during the trip
TIMS trekking permit
Special permit
National park fee
Hotel in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj.
Meals and lodge during the trek

Exclude

Meals & drinks during the trek and in Kathmandu (unless stated otherwise under ‘The trip cost includes’)
Personal trekking equipment
Travel/medical insurance
Emergency rescue evacuation
Phone calls
Internet
International air ticket
Tips for your trekking guide & porters at the end of the trek
If you’re forced to extend your trek due to bad weather or natural disaster circumstances, we are not liable to pay any compensation or otherwise be responsible for any expenses you may incur
Anything not mentioned in the ‘includes section’

Important Information

CHECKLISTS FOR PHOKSUNDO LAKE TREK

  • Valid passport (valid for six months from the date of your trip)
  • One other picture ID, such as driver’s license (in case of emergency and for use as a substitute of passport or in case of loss of your passport) Photocopy of passport page to carry in a wallet
  • Air tickets (Make a copy of flight tickets which may be helpful, in case of loss)
  • Visa Clearance (Make a copy of visa clearance which may be helpful, in case of emergencies)
  • MasterCard, Visa Credit, and Debit Cards are accepted in Nepal. However, traveler's cheques and some cash are highly recommended.
  • Mobile (if your cell phone is from CINGULAR USA or ATNT (USA) operators then your cell phone will  work in Nepal.)

Guiding, Food, and Lodging
Trekking in Nepal, all trekking supplies - Teahouse trekking means staying and eating in local lodges. We stay in single rooms where possible, but often you will have to share. The rooms are basic, normally just a bed with a pillow, blankets. A few have electric lights and all have a spacious dining room-lounge. We eat at teahouses and, although the food is usually plentiful and delicious, the menu is not extensive. They offer a variety of potatoes, rice and noodle dishes, as well as soup and seasonal vegetables. Beers and local spirits are often available, but that will be at your own cost. A variety of cereals, bread, and egg dishes are generally available for breakfast. There are also snacks available such as basic biscuits, chocolate, and soft drinks and in some areas, you will find fresh fruit in season. It is normal to meet your porter in the teahouse where you will stay overnight. So, pack your necessary things in your own day pack.

DRESS CODE FOR VISITING MONASTERIES, AND TEMPLES IN NEPAL

  • Shirt (either half or full sleeve)
  • Full pants/long skirts
  • Any type of shoes with socks
  • No Hats, No Umbrella, No Slippers, No t-shirts, No short skirt, and No half-pants
  • Photographs allowed in the courtyard only.

Note regarding itineraries
Although we generally adhere to the schedule, the itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control, including weather and terrain conditions, suitable campsite availability, and the group's general fitness level. It is important to understand that our trek is logistically complex and it is not unusual that adjustments be made. Our guide will orient you each evening to the following day's plan; their good judgment is the key to the long history of successful treks that Himalayan Wander Walkers has led till now. Please remember that our ability to make adjustments as needed helps to ensure that your trek is successful.

Frequently Asked Question

Although trekking gear is available in Nepal you are advised to bring your own gear.

Trekking or running shoes Camp shoes or thongs Socks (polypropylene)

Down or fiber-filled jacket Jumper or piled jacket Hiking shorts Waterproof jackets, poncho or umbrella Hiking pants T-shirts or blouses Underwear Sun hat

Rucksack Self Inflating Sleeping Mattress (optional) Water bottle Torch, batteries, and bulbs