Shey Phoksundo Lake Trekking

A short and relatively easy trip to one of Nepal's largest and most spectacular lake

Trip Code
AMT - TREK - 502
Best Season

Autumn

Trip Grade

⭐⭐⭐

Max Altitude

Numa La Pass (5,190m/17,023ft)

Accomodation

Teahouses/Lodges

Transportation

Flight/Jeep or Bus

Meals

BB/Full Board

Group Size

Any

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Trip Introduction

Shey Phoksundo Lake is a pristine fresh-water lake inside the Shey Phoksundo National Park of Nepal. Beside it is the deepest lake in Nepal. We can consider Shey Phoksundo Lake Trekking as a part of Upper Dolpo Trekking.

 

Shey Phoksundo Lake Trekking can be made within two weeks but we have designed this 21 days itinerary of Shey Phoksundo National Park. Lake Trekking to experience more adventurous holiday via a crossing of Numa La Pass at 5,190 meters and Baga La Pass at 5,070 meters.

 

Highlights of the Shey Phoksundo Lake Trekking includes explore wilderness of remote mountain valleys, Buddhist cultural villages, amazing landscapes. For sure, excellent views of Great Himalayas and Trans Himalayas of Nepal.

Trip Highlights:

  • A part of Great Himalayan Trail, explore Nepal’s deepest Shey Phoksundo Lake inside the Shey Phoksundo National Park.

Shey Phoksundo – Trek Plan

Officially regulated day-to-day itinerary of 21 days Shey Phoksundo Lake Trekking adventure package trip with Adventure Mountain Nepal Trekking and Climbing Pvt. Ltd begins after spending a day in the capital city Kathmandu with a day guided sightseeing tour around world heritage sites of UNESCO.

 

Leaving Kathmandu, we make a short flight to Nepalgunj and another flight of Dunai to start our walking journey to Shey Phoksundo.

 

We gradually follow the trail of remote and less explored places towards Tarakot, Khani Gaon, Tarap Khola, Yak Kharka, Dho Tarap and Tokyu Gaun before reaching at Numa La Base Camp.

 

Next we make the crossing of adventurous 2 high passes; Numa La and Baga La to reach at Ringmo Village and Shey Phoksundo Lake.

 

After having a great exploration and excursion around the places of Shey Phoksundo Lake we safely retrace our journey to Juphal and fly back to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj after accomplish amazing experience of Shey Phoksundo Lake Trekking with AMN Trekking and Climbing Team.

Shey Phoksundo National Park

Shey Phoksundo National Park is the largest National Park of Nepal covering the area of 3,555 km2 (1,373 sq mi). It lies in Dolpa and Mugu district of Mid-Western Region, Nepal. The interesting fact is, It is the only trans-Himalaya National Park of Nepal.

 

The winter here above 2,500 m remains frozen in July-September. Above 3000 m, the temperature remains below freezing point in the winter.

Flora in Shey Phoksundo National Park

The Phoksundo National Park is extremely rich with flora. We can find blue pine, spruce, Populus, Juniper, Caragana, White Himalayan birch and many more.

Fauna in Shey Phoksundo National Park

Also, equally rich in fauna like Himalayan black bear, yellow-throated marten, snow leopard, musk deer, grey wolf, Tibetan partridge, and many more.

People and Culture | Shey Phoksundo Region

Talking about culture, we will find many Gompas and Religious sites in Shey Phoksundo. Shey Gompa, is one of the oldest Gumpa suited in Shey Phoksundo National Park built in 11th century. Likewise, Thashung Gompa 900 hundred years old, ‘Ringmo’ Tibetan village, and many more cultural and religious sites. Most of the people follow Buddhism and highly done occupation farming.

Shey Phoksundo Lake

Shey Phoksundo is an alpine fresh-water lake situated inside Shey Phoksundo National Park at an elevation of 3,612 meters. Ringmo Village is the oldest village in the southern end in a 40,000 old landslide dam that formed the lake. It is one of the major attraction for tourists. According to the survey of 2004, the maximum depth of the lake measured was 145 meters.

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) and transfer to Hotel.

Breakfast. Hotel or Resort

Land at Kathmandu International Airport. Transfer to the hotel or resort by our tour representative. Overnight stay in Kathmandu. Relax.

Day 02: Guided tour to Kathmandu’s World Heritage sites.

Breakfast Hotel/Resort

Early morning breakfast at a hotel. Our guide will pick you up from the hotel for sightseeing of World Heritage Sites. Actually, there are seven World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu and we arrange sightseeing spots according to your choice, you have to choose only 3/4 spots for a day since it is not possible to visit all places in a single day. It takes at least 2/3 days to have sightseeing tour of all heritage sites in Kathmandu. World Heritage Sites of UNESCO in Kathmandu are; Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Swyambhunath Temple, Pashuapatinath Temple, Bouddhanath Stupa and Changu Narayan Temple. In the evening we again can have pre trek discussion.

Day 03: Trek From Kathmandu to Nepalganj.

45 min. flight (Full Board Tea House)

We take a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalganj today. Nepalgunj is situated in the southwestern section of the Terai district close to the border of India. Here we can spend our day by visiting the sacred Bageshwari Temple and simply meandering around the bazaar. We can witness individuals from each side of Nepal, including Tibetans and Indians came for the trade here.

Day 04: Flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal (2,475m/8,118ft) & trek to Dunai (2,140m/7,019ft).

45 min flight & 3 Hrs. (trek Full Board Tea Houses/Lodges/Camps)

Today again we take a flight to Juphal. There we start our first trekking day. The trail climbs southeast above Thulo Bheri Valley through maize fields to land at the town of Kalagaunda. We trail by the Bheri River’s southern bank and go by Roop Ghar with the water mill. Lastly achieve the town of Dunai(2145m), huge mountainous town.

Day 05: Trek from Dunai to Tarakot (2,850m/9,348ft).

5-6 Hrs. trek (Full Board Tented Camps)

We leave Dunai and trail by the south bank of the stream going upstream on a decent trail. We keep on following the trail through a gigantic canyon loaded with pine trees. Reach an ancient fortress village of Tarakot.

Day 06: Trek from Tarakot to Khani Gaon (2,543m/8,341ft).

5-6 Hrs. trek (Full Board Tented Camps)

Today we will take the route to Tarap Chu River upstream. Cross the stream twice before going towards the terraced farmlands and rural Sahatera village. From that point, we will proceed with our downward trail. Reach Khani Gaon.

Day 07: Trek from Khani Gaon to Tarap Khola (3,450m/11,316ft)

4-5 hrs. trek (Full Board Tented Camps)

We leave our campground at Khani Gaon and afterward make a climb up to the canyon of Tarap River that ascends high above on a trail based on inclines. The trek gives today excitements and thrills. We will keep on trekking to reach Tarap Khola.

Day 08: Trek from Tarap Khola to Yak Kharka (3,800m/12,464ft).

4-5 Hrs. trek (Full Board Tented Camps)

The present trek is a simple and wonderful walk. We follow the trail that passes through beautiful scenes. Our trek proceeds until we achieve the great campgrounds of Yak Kharka.

Day 09: Trek from Yak Kharka to Dho Tarap (4,090m/13,415ft).

5-6 Hrs. trek (Full Board Tented Camps)

Today we begin our trek with a progressive move towards Kamattarka at the conversion of Lang Khola and Tarap Chu. Then we will proceed with our trek passing the narrow canyon and trailing into the tropical dry Himalayan valleys through wild roses and juniper bushes. Reach Dho Tarap.

Day 10: Rest & Acclimatization Day at Dho Tarap.

Full Board Tented Camps

Today spend the day to get acclimatized which is extremely critical to be physically and mentally fit in higher elevations. We can spend our day meandering around Dho Tarap. Bon Po and Chaiba tribes together live here. We will visit two or three Bonpo and Buddhist Gompa.

Day 11: Trek from Dho Tarap to Tokyu Gaun.

5-6 Hrs. trek (Full Board Tented Camps)

Our trek proceeds to Upper Tarap valley. We will take the trail that heads above the plain valley with rich flourishing grass on the two sides of the stream going through a few villages with fields of buckwheat, grain, and potato. We reach to the Tokyu village.

Day 12: Trek from Tokyu Gaun to Numa La Base Camp.

5-6 Hrs. trek (Full Board Tented Camps)

We will step-by-step head to high elevation with a beautiful perspective of intriguing valleys. The trek is more challenging and can be extremely tiring. So, we will rest from time to time to re-energize ourselves. Reach Numa La Base Camp.

Day 13: Trek from Numa La Base Camp to Phedi via the crossing of Numa La Pass (5,190m/17,023ft).

Full Board Tented Camps

Early morning, we begin our trekking that leads to the intersection of Numa La Pass at 5190m. We will make a precarious ascend to achieve the highest point of the pass. From there, we can appreciate eminent perspectives of encompassing valleys and mountains as well as the north face of Dhaulagiri massif alongside other snow-topped pinnacles. We will plummet to the base to achieve Phedi.

Day 14: Cross Baga La Pass (5,070m/16,630ft) and camp on the Phedi (4,470m/14,662ft ).

Full Board Tented Camps

We will begin with a precarious ascend to achieve the Baga La Pass ridge top at 5070 m. From there, we will have awesome perspectives of stunning Kanjirowa Himalayan Ranges and valleys. After spending some time there, we will go downward. Reach Phedi.

Day 15: Trek from Phedi to Ringmo (3,733m/12,244ft) (6-7 hrs trek).

Full Board Tented Camps

From Phedi, we will begin our trail through pine backwoods and after that enter the locale of high vegetation with pastureland. We head on the trail with few ascends and descends as that leads to Ringmo and the peaceful cobalt blue Phoksundo lake.

Day 16: Rest and Sightseeing Day at Shey Phoksundo Lake.

Full Board Tented Camps

Spend this day for resting and sightseeing at Ringmo. We can visit close-by Tibetan Buddhist Monastery and meander around the Ringmo. A stroll around the tranquil lake of Phoksundo is likewise worth spending an incredible day.

Day 17: Trek from Ringmo to Chepka (2,838m/9,308ft) ( 5-6 hrs trek).

Full Board Tented Camps

Today we head to the trail through a gigantic overhanging rock. We will proceed with our trek that goes through a few conventionals and social villages. Ascend to the pasture fields of Chepka.

Day 18: Trek from Chepka to Jhupal (2,475m/8,118ft).

5-6 Hrs. trek Full Board Tea Houses/lodges/tented camps

Today our trail ascends to the top of a ridge. Here enjoy perspectives of high mountains and valley. We can see directly Jhupal beneath from the ridge. It is a simple downhill trek to achieve Jhupal.

Day 19: Flight to Nepalgunj then to Kathmandu.

Breakfast at Hotel/Resort

Today first we will take an early morning flight from Jhupal to Nepalgunj. And afterward, take another flight from Nepalgunj to land at Kathmandu. Subsequent to arriving at Kathmandu airport our tour representative will transfer you to the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure.

Day 20: Free day.

Breakfast & Farewell Dinner Hotel/Resort

Today is free for personal activities. Or our tour representative can help you to customize additional city tour.

Day 21: Final departure. Drop to airport as per flight schedule.

Breakfast

After breakfast transfer to the Tribhuvan International Airport. Return to home with the cherishing memories of your adventure.

 

Remember:

Our travel planner can customize the itinerary outline as per your duration of stay, purpose of holiday and your preference. Cost of the package also depends upon level of service (deluxe, standard & budget) and as per the group size. You can easily CONTACT US at any time for any queries.

Cost & Dates

N/A

TOUR MAP

Additional Information

How hard is Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek ?

Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek is considered as a Strenuous trek. Although there are numerous challenges like the rugged terrain, steep slopes, trekking route through stone stairs and continuous walk of 5 to 6 hours per day. That being said, Shey Phoksundo Lake Trekking can be done by travelers who have the right attitude and are physically fit.

Which is the best season for Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek ?

The best season for Trekking Shey Phoksundo Lake is during Spring (March, April and May) and Autumn (October and November). During these seasons the weather will be clear, you will get long sunlight hours, fewer bugs, flowers will bloom on the way, the charm of the atmosphere can be felt by the heart, magnificent views of the Himalayas can be seen and you can escape the crowd and enjoy the pleasure of trekking.

How high will we ascend during Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek ?

The maximum height we will ascend during this trek is up to Numa La Pass (5,190m/17,023ft).

Is the Internet accessible during Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek ?

Yes!! The Internet is accessible during Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek. You can access the 3G network on mobile phones. The mobile internet is fast enough to browse and even make video calls. You will get continuous signal during the whole trek but there will be certain dark spots along the trek where connection may drop. There are limited WiFi hotspots during the trek which will charge for usage only some will let you use it for free. So, for internet access we recommend you to buy a SIM and use 3G.

What are the permits required for Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek?

The permits required for Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek are:

  • Lower Dolpo Trekking Permit
  • Shey Phoksundo National Park Trekking Permit

How long will Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek take ?

According to the standard itinerary our Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek is of 21 days from your arrival to Kathmandu to farewell at Airport. If you wish to amend the itinerary you have to contact our booking manager; he will prepare the itinerary according to your needs.

Is it possible to trek Shey Phoksundo Lake ?

Yes!! It is possible to trek Shey Phoksundo Lake. Shey Phoksundo Lake trekking requires stamina and good health conditions. If you are planning to trek Shey Phoksundo Lake without any experience then you can contact us prior to 20 days so that we can guide you through some exercises and diets you should consider for trek preparation.

Do I need to have Travel Insurance during Trek ?

Yes!! It is recommended to have travel insurance during the trek. It is uncertain that you will not feel sick or get into any accidents during the trek. So, for medical emergencies and as precaution against risks and financial losses that could happen while traveling, insurance is best.

Should I manage the equipment/accessories for trekking by myself ?

All the equipment/accessories required for trekking will be arranged for you. You will have to pay the amount for equipment. If you personally want to manage any equipment by yourself it’s fine. We have created The Ultimate Trekking Checklist page for your help as It is always better to carry the essential gears and accessories.

Who are my Guides ?

Qualified, well experienced, knowledgeable and reliable trekking leaders who have been working in this field professionally for more than a decade will guide you toward the destination and back. You are in safe hands with us, so don’t worry about trekking guides.

What if I cancel the trip, do I get my refund ?

Adventure Mountain Trek offers you a lifetime policy through which you can renew your booking amount for another trek although if you want to cancel it then we will refund you as per our trip cancellation terms procedure.

Are your staff equipped/trained & insured ?

We hire our staff according to their standards. They should have to go through our selection procedure on which we will check their certifications, qualifications and experience. Hence, Our staff are equipped/trained and insured.

What about altitude Sickness ?

Normally, Within 12-24 hours after ascending a certain height(1,500 to 2,500 meter above sea level) altitude sickness symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, loss of appetite, sleep problems, loss of energy, and shortness of breath are seen. In case of any altitude sickness symptoms we will apply medication and descend immediately for acclimatization.

How to select a local agency for trekking?

Trekking via the local agency is one of the great ideas for trekkers. There are more local trekking organizations in Nepal. The hard part is you need to recognize whether they are authorized businesses and are members of the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN).You can view their internet site and profiles commonly all legal organizations will upload their profile along with authorities-legal certificates.

What is the Accommodation Like ?

Due to the advancement of the trekking industry, we can find enough lodges and tea houses throughout Shey Phoksundo Lake trekking routes. They offer good food and accommodation. There are different options you can choose according to your needs and budget. Also you should know that at high altitude and remote places the service will be limited.

Can I charge my mobile phones and camera batteries during the trek ?

Yes!! You can charge mobile phones and camera batteries during the trek. At most of the places you will get to charge for free but at some places you have to pay some amount to charge. Remember that It is always better to bring power bank with you which will be helpful.

Quick Enquiry

    EXCELLENT rating
    Based on 57 reviews
    Great Trip We had a great time in Nepal thanks to Pradip and his team! From landing to take off we were thoroughly looked after. We were greeted at the airport and the same person helped us in Katmandu both sides of the trek, picking us up from our domestic flight and again taking us to the airport at the end. He was always early and received a sweet momento on arrival and departure. Due to weather we unfortunately had to make a last minute decision to change our route; Pradip and the guide See Wa were very accommodating and we easily changed from ACT to Poon Hill and ABC. He quickly sent us a new itinerary and we were picked up the following morning. We were given options as to how we wanted to get to Pokhara and Pradip made this seamless for us. Many trekkers also had to change their route to ABC rather than other routes like ACT and EBC which meant the tea houses were very busy. Our guide ensured that we always had a room to stay in and was flexible with our itinerary if we wanted to walk further/fit in a visit to the hot spring. At times it was a bit difficult to communicate with the guide due to the language barrier and we found we were fitter so would often be walking ahead with one of the porters but over all we had a good experience and would recommend.
    Eleanor H
    Eleanor H
    2022-10-21
    Mardi Himal Base Camp Trek In Summer The whole trek went very smoothly.It was a 4 day trek.Guide and the porter both were very polite & professional no doubt.I didn't find anything negative in the service.Mr.Pradip helped us via telephone whenever we needed him.
    Deep Chakraborty
    Deep Chakraborty
    2022-07-11
    Trip of a lifetime The best part of being with this team is their ability and willingness to help in every way possible, at times even going out of their way to help. The professional approach to every aspect of a trip means the best deal will always be put on the table☺️.
    Papai B
    Papai B
    2022-07-06
    Excellent service provided by Mr.Pradip the founder Mr. Pradip the founder of the adventure mountain treks is very generous and very polite. He helped in all the ways possible. I have been pestering with questions regarding my packing list. He was so polite and answered all my queries without seeing the time. A very genuine person to do the trek and a very well organised person and the trek was perfect.
    adityanaravind
    adityanaravind
    2022-06-25
    May 2022 great EBC trekking experience Mr. TikkaThank you for organizing a great 14 day trek in May 2022.I want to thank our guide Dinesh and two great porters Anu and Prem for their effort in making our trek most enjoyable. All three gentlemen went above and beyond their duty to make us comfortable on our trek and giving us encouragement every step of the way.
    sham p
    sham p
    2022-06-03
    16 day tour to Gokyo Ri & EBC My girlfriend and I went on a 16 day tour to Gokyo Ri and Everest Base Camp and were in Nepal for almost 4 weeks. All I can say is that Pradip is an outstanding person. He took care of us from day one in Kathmandu, was extremely helpful and did everything so that we felt good and secure, not just on the trekking trail but also at every place we stayed in Nepal. Unforgettable experience which I highly recommend all of you share !
    Franck
    Franck
    2022-05-20
    3 Pass Trek with EBC well organized Dear Pradip,thanks for the Organisation of my 3 Pass Trek. It was soo komfortable for me to come to Nepal and the whole Trip was perfectly arranged. After 1 Organization Day in Kathmandu we Start the Trek in Luka for 18 Days. I can only say ! Good work had you done. I am Back in Germany and had perfect organized Trekking Thanks Adventure Mountain Nepal Trecking ! And also my Guide Padam Hendrik
    Henny B
    Henny B
    2022-04-18
    Best Agency for Travel and Trekking Experiences... I and my friends did a trekking experience with Adventure Mountain Nepal. I would like to thank the entire team for providing us a hospitable manner, professional service, and affordable package rate. Will recommend this company to all who’re going to Nepal for a trekking adventure.
    Unsaved Memo
    Unsaved Memo
    2022-02-03
    Gokyo Ri & Everest Base Camp Trek - January 2022 Cet agence touristique est réellement à l'écoute des besoins de ses clients et tente toujours de répondre à toutes leurs questions. J'ai pu tout organiser à distance avec Pradip Sharma qui a été très transparent sur les tarifs pratiqués et m'a accompagné dans la préparation de cette aventure, notamment en me guidant dans mes derniers achats à Katmandou et en m'évitant les arnaques.Pendant la randonnée, mon guide Mane s'est montré très professionnel lorsque la haute altitude est venue altérer ma condition physique. Son soutien et ses conseils ont été indispensables. Il est préférable d'organiser cette marche au printemps ou à l'automne pour éviter le froid pouvant aller jusqu'à -18°C...Il faut une dizaine de jours soit pour Gokyo Ri, soit pour EBC. Pour boucler les deux en un coup, il faut 15 jours.L'expérience est intense et parfois difficile mais reste inoubliable.
    Abdelhakc
    Abdelhakc
    2022-01-20
    私の旅行は楽しくて良かったです🥰❤️👍 私がこの会社から遊びできましたとてもいい会社です。もし誰かがネパールに旅行したいなら私が障害することもできます。この会社の値段も安いしサービスもとても良かった👍です。こちらのオーナーと他の社会人もとても親切とまじめ❤️です。 こんども私が旅行するときこの会社何回もら選びます。みんなさんネパールへ行ってみましょうネパールはとても美しい国💕です。よろしくお願いします🙏
    シマ
    シマ
    2021-12-29