Dolpo & Phoksundo Lake Trek

Max Altitude

3,660m (Phoksundo Lake)

Duration

12 Days

Group Size

2-8 trekkers

Best Season

April-May, September-October

Difficulty

Challenging

Country

Nepal

Overview

Venture into Nepal's most remote and mysterious region on this trek to Lower Dolpo and the stunning Phoksundo Lake. Made famous by Peter Matthiessen's book "The Snow Leopard," Dolpo remains one of the last truly wild places on Earth.

The highlight of this trek is Phoksundo Lake - Nepal's deepest lake and a sacred site of extraordinary beauty. The crystal-clear turquoise waters, surrounded by stark mountains and pine forests, create a scene of unforgettable natural splendor.

The trek passes through Shey Phoksundo National Park, home to snow leopards, blue sheep, and musk deer. The local Dolpo-pa people follow ancient Bon Buddhist traditions, living much as they have for thousands of years.

This is true wilderness trekking - remote trails, basic teahouses, and an authentic experience far from the tourist crowds. The region requires full commitment and preparation, but rewards with unparalleled beauty and cultural authenticity.

Highlights

  • Phoksundo Lake - Nepal's deepest
  • Remote Dolpo wilderness
  • Ancient Bon Buddhist culture
  • Snow leopard habitat
  • Shey Phoksundo National Park
  • Setting of "The Snow Leopard"
  • Authentic village life
  • True wilderness trekking

Your Journey

12 Days

Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, then to Juphal airstrip.

Duration

-

Elevation

2,475m

Meals

Lunch, Dinner

Stay

Teahouse

Trek to the district headquarters of Dolpo.

Duration

-

Elevation

2,140m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Stay

Teahouse

Enter Shey Phoksundo National Park. Trek along the Suli Gad River.

Duration

-

Elevation

2,800m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Stay

Teahouse

Trek through forests to the stunning turquoise lake.

Duration

-

Elevation

3,660m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Stay

Teahouse

Full day at the lake. Visit Ringmo village and monastery.

Duration

-

Elevation

3,660m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Stay

Teahouse

Hike above the lake for panoramic views. Explore the area.

Duration

-

Elevation

3,660m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Stay

Teahouse

Begin return journey along the river valley.

Duration

-

Elevation

2,800m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Stay

Teahouse

Continue descent to Dunai.

Duration

-

Elevation

2,140m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Stay

Teahouse

Trek back to the airstrip.

Duration

-

Elevation

2,475m

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Stay

Teahouse

Morning flight to Nepalgunj. Rest day.

Duration

-

Elevation

150m

Meals

Breakfast

Stay

Hotel

Flight back to Kathmandu.

Duration

-

Elevation

1,400m

Meals

Breakfast

Stay

Hotel

Transfer to airport for departure.

Duration

-

Elevation

-

Meals

Breakfast

Stay

-

What's Included

  • Flights Kathmandu-Nepalgunj-Juphal
  • Shey Phoksundo National Park permit
  • Licensed guide and porters
  • Camping equipment
  • All meals during trek
  • First aid kit

What's Not Included

  • Nepal visa
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal gear
  • Tips
  • Personal expenses
  • Sleeping bag

Trusted By

Government of NepalNepal Tourism BoardNepal Mountaineering AssociationTrekking Agencies Association of NepalKEEP NepalTrustpilot