• Duration:10 Nights 11 Days
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Max. Altitude: 3612m
  • Group Size: 2-12
  • Activity: Hiking, Trekking and Exploring
  • Pick Up: TIA Airport

About Phoksundo Lake Trekking

Phoksundo Lake is one of the most dazzling lakes in the world and the deepest lake in Nepal. Its deep blue and rich green glows are magical which makes this location an ideal destination in the Lower Dolpo region. And to add, the trek to Phoksundo Lake is the only Tea House Trekking with no high altitude passes tangled. Phoksundo Lake Trekking is considered as an easy to moderate trekking in the remote Lower Dolpo region. Likewise, the region is equally prosperous in wildlife with amazing landscapes which gives the adventure seeking trekkers an opportunity to witness some of the rare endangered species like Blue sheep, Tibetan Sheep, Himalayan Tahr, Musk Deer, Snow Leopard and many more. Phoksundo Lake is an alpine deepest freshwater lake which is also believed as a divine lake by the Buddhist people and Bon-po religions making the trek a perfect blend of alluring nature and untouched culture in Western Nepal.

Our 12 Days trekking to the thrilling Phoksundo Lake starts upon your arrival in Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu. With a domestic flight to Nepalgunj (lowland of western Terai) from Kathmandu, we take another mountain flight to Juphal (the starting and ending point of our trekking). The trails pass through beautiful landscapes, thick pine forests and along wild rivers all the while with spectacular views of beautiful snow-capped mountains. In Ringmo, the village close to the lake, you can experience authentic Bon-po culture. But the real highlight of the trek is the captivating deep-blue and emerald complexion of Phoksundo Lake which is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful innate destinations in Nepal for travelers across the world. Tshowa monasteries on the east bank of Phoksundo Lake where local people still worship is a nice place to visit. Your stay at Phoksundo Lake is obligated to make you feel calm and tranquil as you zest the charm of the lake along with the outlook of Kanjiroba Himal (6612m). The ideal season for Phoksundo Lake Trekking is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).

As more travelers are now visiting the fascinating Phoksundo Lake, tourist services and infrastructure have developed over the years. Especially at Phoksundo Lake, we can find Tea Houses or Cottages or Home stays and Camping facilities available too. We assure that your trip to Nepal will be full of joyful experiences and good memories. We can tailor the journey to mesmerizing Phoksundo Lake according to your specific needs and preferences.

Highlights of Phoksundo Lake Trekking

  • cherish deep blue Phoksundo Lake
  • explore the pristine trails in high Himalaya of Dolpo region
  • witness ancient Bon Culture
  • astonishing wildlife and breathtaking Phoksundo Waterfall
  • trek through the deserted rain shadow region of Lower Dolpo
  • kanjiroba Himal (6612m) and its sierra
  • pay a visit to holy Shey Gompa, Thasung Gompa and Tshowa monastery
  • ancient and remote villages with captivating culture and tradition

Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu

Flying to Kathmandu is in itself an exciting and memorable experience. On a clear day you will get a panoramic view of the snow-capped mountains. In the airport, after completing the visa formalities collect your luggage downstairs. As you exit the airport terminal, you will be met by our representative carrying your name on a signboard as well as our company signboard, Annapurna Foothills Treks & Expedition. You will be taken to your hotel in our vehicle, where you will be staying before commencing the trip.

  • Hotel

We fly from Kathmandu to Nepalganj, which lies in the southwest part of the Terai, right on the border to India. After checking into our hotel we might visit the Bageshwari Mandir, a temple to honour Goddess Kali. Nepalganj is known for its local bazaars, which have goods with cheap price rates. Here, not only do we see people from all over Nepal, but also people from Tibet and India; they all come here for trade.

  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Hotel

Another morning flight from Nepalgunj takes us to Juphal which takes about 40 minutes. After landing at Juphal, we meet the rest of the trek members and make final preparation for the trek. 

The trail from Juphal to Sulighat is quite comfortable and easy as the trail on this part of trek also has few jeeps running here and there. We then descend alongside Thuli Bheri River and make our way to Sulighat. 

  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Tea House / Lodge

From today, the real adventure of Dolpo region begins. The trail goes through disseminated villages and abandoned crude stone houses. Many of these villages are temporary settlement esp. for winter months when the groups of Upper Dolpo bring their animals down from the high pastures. We have our lunch nearby a wooden suspension bridge and after lunch, we pass Aanke Khola and ascend alongside Suli River and finally reach our todays' destination, Chhepka where we will be camping overnight. 

  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Tea House / Lodge

We head towards Jharana Guest House ascending through a forested path filled with big cedar. As the trail progresses, we walk through a winter settlement and gradually climb up through wide meadows situated above the gorge of Phoksundo River. From here, we get to witness a great view of a high waterfall and a splendid view of Phoksundo Lake in distance.

  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Tea House / Lodge

Early in the morning after having breakfast, we leave to Ringmo. Today, 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 pastures of a Tibetan Bon village, Ringmo

  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Tea House / Lodge

We spend the day witnessing the area nearby Phoksundo Lake. With the view of Kanjiroba Himal (6612m) in the background, we zest the abrupt charm of Phoksundo Lake. Also, we can experience the Bon Po religion, its culture and tradition here.

  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Tea House / Lodge

We retrace our steps back to Chhepka.

  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Tea House / Lodge

Today, we again retrace our steps back to Juphal.

  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Tea House / Lodge

Leaving behind Juphal, we fly back to Nepalgunj. After reaching Nepalgunj, we catch another flight back to Kathmandu.

  • Breakfast & Lunch
  • Hotel

We will accompany you to the International Airport in time to board your flight.

  • Breakfast

What's Included

  • Transfer from Airport – Hotel – Airport: Car, Van, Hi-ace or Coaster in a private vehicle.
  • Authentic Nepali welcome dinner with Live Nepalese Cultural Program.
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu, three nights on Twin share Bed and Breakfast Basis.
  • Accommodation in Nepalgunj, One night on Twin share Bed and Breakfast Basis.
  • All standard meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the trekking
  • English speaking experienced Sherpa guide (Govt. Trained/License Holder).
  • One Sherpa guide-assistant if group size is more than 4 Trekkers.
  • Porters: One porter for 2 Trekkers basis.
  • Trek Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, food and accommodation.
  • Personal insurance for Nepalese staff.
  • Annapurna Foothill’s Duffle bag for Trekking.
  • Annapurna Foothill’s Tshirt.
  • Energy Supplies; Snickers, Mars, Bounty etc. 
  • First aid medicine kit.
  • Restricted Area Permit, TIMS permits & all required permits or Official Documentation.
  • Excess baggage charge(s) (Domestic Flights).
  • All ground transfers.
  • All government and local taxes.

What’s Excluded

  • Your Personal Travel Insurance.
  • Nepal Entry Visa Fee.
  • Lunch & Dinner in cities - allow $ 10 to 14 for per meal in Tourist restaurants.
  • Beverages (soft drinks, mineral water,boiled water and beer).
  • Tips for guide, porters and driver (customary).
  • Any personal expenses not mentioned in above services.
  • Additional night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early return from Trek (due to any reason) than the planned itinerary.

Departure Dates

FromToStatusPrice  
Start Date21 Mar, 2024End Date31 Mar, 2024AvailableUS$ 1700

Departure Note:

Guaranteed - We already have trekkers booked for those dates and you can join the group.

Available - The date is available to book and once you confirm your trip it will be guaranteed.

Limited - The departure date is filling fast and only limited seats are available to join.

Closed- The Trip cannot be booked on that specific date. Contact us for customized dates.


The departure dates are your arrival dates in Nepal.

We have set dates for departure to the Amazing Phoksundo Lake Trekking. So, pick your preferable date and let the adventure begin.

Phoksundo Lake Trekking is available and can be done throughout the year. So, if the date you prefer is not listed on our departure dates then you can contact us directly to book the trip on your own desired date.

We have listed the price up to 12 trekkers at maximum. If you are more than 12 trekkers, then please feel free to contact us for amazing discounted group price and further booking process.

Private Trips to Lowe Dolpo is possible on any date of the year. Contact us to design your own private trips with you loved ones.

Useful Info

Why Trek to Phoksundo Lake with Annapurna Foothills Treks?

Annapurna Foothills Treks has been running trekking and climbing expeditions for over 10 years. Annapurna Foothills Treks reaches for the highest standard of ethical business practices.

The Best Time of Year for the Phoksundo Lake Trekking:

The best seasons for trekking in the Dolpo are spring (February to late April) and autumn (late September to late November). A summer trek is also possible however, the flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal may be affected by monsoon weather.

Temperatures on the Phoksundo Lake Trekking:

The temperatures at night will drop to around 5C, and during the day will climb to around 25C. You should be prepared with proper protection from the sun as well as layers of clothing that can be added or taken off easily.

Phoksundo Lake Trekking is a Tea House Trek:

Accommodation is included in the cost of your package and Annapurna Foothills Treks takes great care to arrange the most comfortable accommodation possible throughout your stay.

Sherpa Support Staff:

Annapurna Foothills Treks has a capable support staff with ample experience in organizing camping trips. The relationship we have developed among us over the years makes for a wonderful exchange of ideas, laughter and assistance. Your personal packs will be carried by the porters, saving you time and energy to fully enjoy the surrounding environment.

Each staff member at Annapurna Foothills Treks and Expeditions is insured for their appropriate roles. (Some companies are cutting corners here.)

Drinking Water on the Phoksundo Lake Trekking:

You will be provided with boiled water during the trek. While trekking, it is important to keep hydrated; you should drink at least 3 liters of water each day. As additional precaution, we suggest you bring a supply of water purification tablets to add to the water.

Fitness/Health:

The altitude becomes more noticeable the higher we go, so we walk at a slow pace and take plenty of breaks to rest and acclimatize.

Safety:

When travelling in remote mountain regions, uncertainties such as weather, health problems and natural disasters require a certain amount of flexibility. While our goal is to follow the itinerary, that is not our first priority; your safety is always our first priority. Annapurna Foothills Treks and Expeditions request your cooperation to accept the decisions and advice of our trusted and experienced guides if they deem it necessary to change or cancel any part of the itinerary due to safety concerns.

Environmental Responsibility:

Annapurna Foothills Treks practices and teaches the Leave-No-Trace principles. Moreover, we are committed to protecting the land and culture of the indigenous people. The mountains are our home and we are unwilling to sacrifice their preservation for human objectives. Annapurna Foothills Treks believe that given the proper information most people will do all they can to help protect and maintain the environment.

Acclimatization:

It is really difficult to head straight up to high altitude for the first time even if you follow the recommended 400m-a-day-rule. Our itinerary is planned to allow rational acclimatization and avoid altitude sickness. Please read Altitude Advice.

Travel Insurance:

It is strongly recommended to be sufficiently protected when you go into remote areas. You need specialized travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation, injury, lost baggage, liability and medical treatment. Make sure the insurance covers all the activities that you will be undertaking during your stay in Nepal. Annapurna Foothills Treks and Expeditions Pvt. Ltd. can organize the appropriate medical response based on your policy.

Annapurna foothills Treks has an agreement in Kathmandu that guarantees payment for helicopter evacuations. We will pay a cash deposit to the helicopter operator and collect the money from you once you have been rescued. Before leaving on the trek make sure your policy specifically covers alpinism otherwise you may have a difficult time settling the large claim.