Shey Phoksundo Trek
Dolpo Region
Journey into the remote Lower Dolpo region to the turquoise waters of Lake Phoksundo, ancient Bon monasteries, and dramatic alpine landscapes.
Trek Overview
A quick look at what awaits on the trail.
The Shey Phoksundo Trek leads into the remote wilderness of Lower Dolpo, beginning with a mountain flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal. From Juphal, the route descends toward the Thuli Bheri River before turning into the Suligad Valley and entering Shey-Phoksundo National Park. The trail follows the river through pine, cedar, and bamboo forests, crossing suspension bridges and passing through dramatic gorges and small mountain settlements as it climbs toward Chhepka and Jharana.
Beyond Jharana, the landscape becomes more rugged as the route enters the Phoksundo Valley. The trail reaches Ringmo, a traditional settlement beside Phoksundo Lake, where the deep-blue waters lie at approximately 3,611 m beneath steep cliffs and mountain slopes. A day around Ringmo allows time to explore the lake and experience the area's distinctive Bon cultural heritage, including Thashung Gompa, a historic monastery associated with the Bon tradition and said to be around 900 years old. After exploring the lake and surrounding village, the route retraces the valley through the forests and river gorges toward Juphal.
When Should I go?
Month-by-month conditions to help you plan your trip.
Monthly Window
Conditions vary through the year with the seasons.
Note: Peak Season to visit Shey Phoksundo Trek is March-May, September-November
October
OptimalOctober is one of the best times to go. Conditions are shaped by crystal clear skies, bringing sharper lake views. Skies are typically stable and visibility is good, and visitor numbers tend to be high.
Select the current month to see today’s live forecast.
What to Expect
Understand rhythms before you go
“Journey into the remote Lower Dolpo region to the turquoise waters of Lake Phoksundo, ancient Bon monasteries, and dramatic alpine landscapes.”
Turquoise Phoksundo LakeReach the deep-blue waters of Phoksundo Lake at approximately 3,611 m, a distinctive Y-shaped alpine freshwater lake within Shey-Phoksundo National Park, framed by steep cliffs and mountain slopes.
Bon Cultural HeritageExperience Lower Dolpo’s distinctive Bon tradition, including Thashung Gompa, a historic monastery said to be around 900 years old, in the traditional settlement of Ringmo beside the lake.
Remote Lower Dolpo WildernessTrek into the remote valleys of Lower Dolpo, following river gorges through pine, cedar, and bamboo forests while passing dramatic gorges and small mountain settlements.
Suligad WaterfallWitness the Suligad Waterfall, where water from the lake drops approximately 167 m through the gorge below, and enjoy views across the Phoksundo Valley.
Shey-Phoksundo National ParkTravel through Shey-Phoksundo National Park, home to blue sheep, Himalayan tahr, musk deer, and rare wildlife including the elusive snow leopard, though sightings are uncommon.
Altitude & Safety
Comprehensive health guidance and immediate response tools for the high altitude trekker.
Maximum altitude · Shey Phoksundo Trek
Reach Out To
Specialist Hospitals
Helicopter Rescue
Carry this on your Trek
Download this offline altitude safety card before trek. Includes AMS, HAPE, and HACE symptoms and preventions.
Download Safety Card
Gear Checklist
Make sure you have everything you need
Weight: 0.0 kg
Essential
0 / 20 packedCritical items required for safety, comfort, and completing your trek.
Gallery
Memories made during adventure
Shey Phoksundo Trivia
3-4 hrs
10 km
2,140 m · Dunai