Phoksundo Lake is regarded as one of the most stunning and unique tourist spots in Nepal, situated in Dolpo, the largest district by area. Phoksundo Lake Trek is a brief and simple trek to one of the most stunning and profound lakes in Nepal. Phoksundo is a high-altitude freshwater lake revered as sacred by adherents of Buddhist and Bon-po faiths, creating a wonderful blend of nature and culture during the trek.
The journey of 11 days begins with your landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. The journey to Phoksundo Lake resumes the following day with a flight to Nepalgunj, located in the lowlands of western Terai, merely 8 km from the Indian Border. Following a short visit to Nepalgunj, we take a flight to Juphal, where our trek to Phoksundo Lake begins. The hiking route rises and falls through a thickly wooded area populated with oaks, pines, and firs, offering sights of various waterfalls throughout the journey. The path also goes through various charming traditional villages such as Dunai, Chhepka, Jharana Hotel, and Shyanta. The hikers encounter the sight of an impressive 330m tall waterfall. The region is similarly abundant in wildlife, providing trekkers a chance to spot various endangered species such as musk deer, snow leopards, blue sheep, Tibetan sheep, Himalayan tahr, and others. A brief visit to the enchanting Phoksundo Lake is sure to fill you with tranquility as you appreciate the lake’s beauty and the sight of Kanjirowa Himal (6612m), along with exploring the different monasteries around the lake.
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, our representative will pick you up and transfer you to the hotel. Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Kathmandu.
We catch our 1-hour scenic flight to Nepalgunj from Kathmandu. Nepalgunj is a town located in the western Terai near the Indian Border and the Bardia National Park. Nepalgunj is also the business center and major transportation hub for many regions of Nepal. In the afternoon, we also go to visit Bageshwori temple. Overnight at a 3-star hotel in Nepalgunj.
Today we fly to Juphal from Nepalgunj enjoying the view of mighty snowcapped mountains throughout the flight. After the 35-minute flight, we reach Juphal, which is the starting point of our trek. The trail from Juphal descends through maize fields and local villages. We walk alongside the bank of Bheri River and pass by Roop Ghar with watermill to finally arrive in Dunai. Dunai is the administrative capital of Dolpo. Overnight at a lodge in Dunai.
Leaving behind Dunai, today we head towards Chhepka. The trail descends through the streets of Dunai and crosses the bridge over Bheri River. We continue to trek through the northern bank of the river to reach Sulighat, followed by Shey Phoksundo National Park check post. From there, we ascend along the rock-strewn trail and trek further through a series of hemp farms until we reach Kageni. Relishing the views of waterfalls and lush vegetation, we make our way through the tropical forest to reach the village of Chhepka. Overnight at a lodge in Chhepka.
Today we head towards Jharana Hotel, ascending through a forested path filled with big cedar. We also walk through a winter settlement and gradually climb up through wide meadows situated above the gorge of Phoksundo River, from where we get a great view of a high waterfall and a faraway view of Phoksundo Lake. Overnight at a lodge in Jharana Hotel.
Leaving behind Jharana Hotel, today we head towards Phoksundo Lake descending steeply through forests filled with birch trees to the upper reaches of the Phoksundo Khola. We then cross a bridge and continue to walk north to the ranger station at Phoksundo Lake. From there, we trek through the shores of the lake close to the point where the Phoksundo Khola streams out of the lake. Overnight at a lodge in Ringmo Gaon.
Today we spend the day exploring the area nearby the tranquil Phoksundo Lake. Phoksundo is a beautiful alpine turquoise colored freshwater lake, which is also the deepest lake in Nepal. With the view of Kanjirowa Himal (6612m) in the background, we relish the sheer beauty of Phoksundo Lake. We also visit several monasteries and Bon-po religious sites inside the park. Overnight at a lodge in Ringmo Gaon.
Leaving behind the beautiful Phoksundo Lake, we head towards the village of Shyanta. We ascend along the steep trail for half an hour until we reach the top of the hill which offers the last view of Phoksundo Lake. We then descend to the village of Chunuwar, followed by Rechi. From there, we walk along the river bank and keep descending until we arrive in Chhepka. Overnight at a lodge in Chhepka.
Today we trek through rocky path alongside the Bheri River. Accompanied by the beautiful landscape in the background, we continue to trek and leave the Shey Phoksundo National Park. We then head east towards Juphal Airport passing through the small village of Kalagauda. After 5 hours of walk, we finally arrive in Juphal. Overnight at a lodge in Juphal.
Leaving behind Jhupal, we fly back to Nepalgunj taking an early morning flight, as flights are not possible in the afternoon due to the strong winds. After reaching Nepalgunj, we catch another flight back to Kathmandu, relishing the scenic views throughout the flight. We transfer you to the hotel in Kathmandu. Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Kathmandu.
For your departure, our representative drops you off at Tribhuvan International Airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight.
Discover the soul of Nepal with Him-Trail, where each journey brings you closer to the country’s vibrant traditions and breathtaking views.