Shey Phoksundo Lake-11N/12D

Tour highlights

Itinerary Overview

Travel Itinerary

• Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m) – Airport Transfer (30–45 mins drive)

  Arrive in Kathmandu, where our representative will welcome you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. The drive offers your first glimpse of Nepal’s vibrant streets, cultural diversity, and Himalayan hospitality.

  After check-in, you can relax or stroll around the lively Thamel area filled with shops, cafes, and trekking gear stores. In the evening, attend a detailed trek briefing where your guide explains the route, safety protocols, and preparation tips for the journey ahead.

  Accommodation: Comfortable 3-star hotel in Kathmandu

• Day 2 : Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour (5–6 Hours)

  After breakfast, begin a guided cultural exploration of Kathmandu Valley’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. First, visit Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, which sits atop a hill and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the entire valley along with deep spiritual significance.

  Continue your journey to Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites dedicated to Lord Shiva, located along the holy Bagmati River where traditional rituals and cremation ceremonies take place. Afterward, explore Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world, surrounded by monasteries, prayer wheels, and Tibetan-influenced culture. If time permits, you may also visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, an ancient royal palace complex rich in history, architecture, and heritage.

  Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

• Day 3 : Fly to Nepalgunj (150m) – 1 Hour Flight

  Take an early scenic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, located in the warm lowland Terai region of Nepal near the Indian border. During the flight, enjoy spectacular aerial views as the Himalayan foothills gradually transition into flat fertile plains.

  Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure. You may explore local markets, temples, and the multicultural environment of this bustling border city. This stop also serves as an important transition point before entering the remote mountain regions of Dolpo, allowing your body to adjust before the high-altitude trek begins.

  Accommodation: Standard hotel in Nepalgunj

• Day 4 : Fly to Juphal & Trek to Dunai (2,140m) – Flight (35 mins) + Trek (3 Hours)

  Early morning, take a thrilling mountain flight to Juphal, offering stunning views of deep valleys, snow-capped peaks, and rugged Himalayan terrain. After landing, your trekking journey officially begins as you descend through terraced farmlands and traditional hillside villages.

  The trail follows the Thuli Bheri River, passing suspension bridges, small settlements, and green landscapes as you gradually make your way to Dunai, the administrative headquarters of Dolpo district. The trek is relatively easy and designed for gradual acclimatization before entering higher elevations.

  Accommodation: Teahouse in Dunai

• Day 5 : Trek to Ankhe (2,896m) 5–6 Hours

  Today’s journey follows the beautiful Phoksundo Khola river trail, gradually ascending through dense pine, cedar, and mixed Himalayan forests. The trail includes multiple suspension bridges, narrow paths carved into hillsides, and occasional small settlements that reflect the remote lifestyle of the Dolpo region.

  As you move deeper into the wilderness, the surroundings become more peaceful and untouched, with the sound of flowing rivers and birds enhancing the natural experience. The trek is moderately challenging with gradual elevation gain, making it a rewarding day for acclimatization and immersion in nature. By evening, you arrive at Ankhe, a quiet forest village surrounded by lush greenery and mountain serenity.

  Accommodation: Basic teahouse in Ankhe

• Day 6 : Trek to Renje (3,010m) 5–6 Hours

  The trail becomes more rugged today, with steep ascents and narrow cliffside paths offering dramatic views of waterfalls and deep valleys. You will experience the raw and untouched beauty of Dolpo.

  After a challenging but rewarding trek, arrive at Renje, a quiet mountain village where you can rest and enjoy the peaceful Himalayan environment.

  Accommodation: Teahouse in Renje

• Day 7 : Trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake (3,611m) 4–5 Hours

  This is the most anticipated and iconic day of the entire journey as you finally reach the legendary Shey Phoksundo Lake. The trail gradually climbs through dry cliffs, pine forests, and open Himalayan terrain, building anticipation with every step.

  Before reaching the lake, you pass through Ringmo Village, a traditional Tibetan-influenced settlement known for its ancient Bon Buddhist culture and stone-built houses. The first sight of the turquoise-blue lake surrounded by towering cliffs is truly breathtaking and unforgettable.

  Accommodation: Teahouse/Camp near Shey Phoksundo Lake

• Day 8 : Exploration Day at Phoksundo Lake (3–4 Hours Hiking)

  This day is reserved for full exploration and acclimatization around Shey Phoksundo Lake. You can take short hikes along the lakeshore and climb nearby viewpoints for panoramic views of the deep blue water contrasting with rugged cliffs.

  You may also explore Ringmo Village more deeply, visit local monasteries, and interact with the indigenous Bon community to understand their unique traditions and lifestyle. The peaceful environment makes this day ideal for photography, reflection, and relaxation.

  Accommodation: Teahouse/Camp near Lake

• Day 9 : Trek to Chhepka (2,670m) 6–7 Hours

  After experiencing the beauty of Phoksundo Lake, you begin your return journey by descending through dense forests, river crossings, and long scenic trails. The route offers a completely new perspective of landscapes you passed earlier.

  The descent is long but enjoyable, with changing vegetation, flowing rivers, and occasional wildlife sightings. By late afternoon, you reach Chhepka, a peaceful forest village surrounded by greenery and natural serenity.

  Accommodation: Teahouse in Chhepka

• Day 10 : Trek to Juphal (2,475m) 5–6 Hours

  Today marks the final trekking day as you continue descending through forest trails, terraced fields, and suspension bridges toward Juphal. The trail gradually becomes easier as you approach the airstrip area.

  This section is emotionally rewarding, giving you time to reflect on the remote Himalayan journey you’ve completed. Upon arrival in Juphal, you settle into your teahouse and celebrate the completion of the trekking phase.

  Accommodation: Teahouse in Juphal

• Day 11 : Fly to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj – 2 Flights (Approx. 35 mins + 1 Hour)

  Early in the morning, take a scenic mountain flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj, followed by a connecting flight back to Kathmandu. The aerial views of hills, rivers, and plains offer a beautiful contrast to your trekking experience.

  Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for relaxation, souvenir shopping, or exploring the city at your own pace. Many trekkers choose to celebrate the successful completion of their Dolpo adventure.

  Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

• Day 12 : Departure – Airport Transfer (30–45 Minutes Drive)

  After breakfast, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. This marks the official end of your unforgettable Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek.

  As you depart, you carry lifelong memories of remote Himalayan trails, crystal-clear turquoise lakes, ancient villages, and the untouched wilderness of Dolpo.

  
  

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