Surrounded by stunning mountain views, Phoksundo Lake is a natural gem that is truly breathtaking. The lower Dolpo region of the Phoksundo Valley is an isolated area where innocent families live, maintaining a harmonious culture similar to that of Tibet. The trek to Phoksundo Lake is relatively easy, making it accessible to individuals with a basic level of physical fitness. The trek typically takes about 10 days.
The 11-Day Dolpo Phoksundo Lake Trek is one of the best ways to explore the Dolpo lowland region, the far-west remote trekking region of Nepal. You can visit these isolated innocent villages, surrounding stunning mountain vistas, and beautiful Phoksundo Lake within ten 10 nights and 11 days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu, inclusive of your international airline arrival and departure, if you have a plan to visit other parts in Nepal, this is a different itinerary plan.
Explore the majestic Dolpo region of Nepal, a remote area that gained fame through Peter Matthiessen’s book 'The Snow Leopard'. Since opening to trekkers in 1989, this region has captivated visitors with its stunning landscapes. The most alluring attraction is Phoksundo Lake, which holds sacred significance for both Buddhists and followers of the Bonpo religion. This trek is relatively easy, as it does not involve high passes, and it winds through beautiful Himalayan forests and traditional Tibetan villages.
In the morning, you can explore the streets of Thamel or visit the Garden of Dreams, a lush and serene oasis in busy Kathmandu, until we receive the trek permit. Today you will fly to Nepalgunj, a town in the western Terai near the Indian border and gateway to the Far West.
Today you will fly to Juphal at 2400 meters, about 35 minutes, the starting point for the trek to Phoksundo Lake. The trail ascends southeast, high above Thulo Bheri Valley, then winds through maize fields to the village of Kalagaunda. You will follow the southern bank of the Bheri River and pass Roop Ghar, where you can see a traditional water mill, before finally reaching the village of Dunai for overnight camp.
Descend through the streets of Dunai and cross the bridge over the Bheri River. Follow the northern bank of the river to Sulighat before heading north to the Shey Phoksundo National Park check-post. The rock-strewn trail climbs above the serpentine Suli Ghad River through a series of hemp trees to Kageni and then through a tropical walnut and maple forest, where you will begin to see glimpses of Tibetan culture. Savor the views of fluttering prayer flags, cascading waterfalls, and lush vegetation on the way to Shyanta village, located at 8,268 feet. Another hour-and-a-half walk uphill along the narrow trail brings you to the village of Chhepka at 2678 meters.
Rise early for the trek to Jharana Waterfall. The trail climbs through a cedar forest to a winter settlement used by the people of Ringmo village. The route then ascends steadily through open country to an elevation of 11,056 feet and our stopping point for the night, Jharana. Your efforts will be rewarded with a close-up view of the spectacular 1,083-foot Jharana Waterfall — one of the highest in Nepal — and a faraway view of Phoksundo Lake.
As you make your way to Ringmo at 3460 meters, you will trek through birch forests to the upper reaches of the Phoksundo River. Cross a bridge and follow the trail north to the ranger station at Phoksundo Lake. After a final push through the Phoksundo River gully, you will emerge onto the yak-filled meadows of Ringmo, a Tibetan Bon village, where you will stay the night.
Today, you will explore the area around the magnificent Phoksundo Lake. Explore Ringmo village before heading to Tshowa Gompa, a 900-year-old Bon monastery on a ridge above the lake. Descend along the steep-sided cliffs to the lake. Phoksundo Lake is regarded as sacred by Buddhists and followers of the Bonpo religion, who believe that the lake contains an underwater palace and a tantric mandala of spirits. The lake is famous for its striking turquoise color and spectacular scenery. Many beautiful glaciers can be found near and above the lake area.
Today you will trek back to Chhepka. Head towards Sulighad, following a stream originating from the lake. You will pass through the village of Renje, and fir and larch forests along the Sulighat river before reaching Chhepka for an overnight stay.
After breakfast, retrace the trail to Juphal through beautiful forests, fields, and villages overnight in Juphal.
In the early morning, you will fly from Juphal to Nepalgunj and on to Kathmandu, where you will be transferred to your hotel. The afternoon is free to enjoy some sightseeing or rest in your hotel.