Trip Duration: 7 to 12 Days
Trip Distance: 77 Kilometers
Trip Grade: Moderate
Max-Altitude: 3640m in Ringmo
Trip Cost: $1000 to $2000 per Person
Trip Start: Pokhara
Trip End: Pokhara
Accommodation: Tea House
Best Season: Spring and Autumn
Trip Permits: TIMS & Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit
Transportation: Public Bus
Guide: Compulsory to Have a Licensed Guide
Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek
Being Nepal’s largest and most magnificent freshwater lake, the Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek is moderately difficult and lasts around 7 to 12 days, but it can be longer or shorter depending on how much hiking an individual wishes to do each day.
Situated in the district of Dolpa, the region around Phoksundo primarily consists of Dolpo, or the people from the Bon community, people who follow Tibetian Buddhism.
As you begin trekking on this trail, you can expect a greeting from turquoise waters mirroring the surrounding snow-capped peaks, dense forests, and the warm hospitality of the local inhabitants.
The lake shimmers due to the reflecting backdrop provided by the Kanjirowa massif. Offering the most breathtaking scenery in the world.
About the Shey Phoksundo Trek from Pokhara
Located in Shey Phoksundo National Park, Phoksundo Lake is the primary destination of our trek. Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek is suitable for adventure enthusiasts wanting to explore the remote and sublime beauty of Mother Nature.
This enchanting journey takes you to the heart of the Shey Phoksundo National Park, a raw corner of the Himalayas known for its breathtaking landscapes, unique culture, and captivating biodiversity.
Phoksundo National Park is also home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek is a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural exploration.
How to Reach Shey Phoksundo Lake from Pokhara (Step-by-Step)
The most common and practical route to reach Shey Phoksundo Lake from Pokhara involves a combination of flights and trekking.
Route 1: Flight & Trek (Most Recommended)
Pokhara to Nepalgunj (Flight: ~25 minutes)
Nepalgunj to Juphal (Flight: ~20 minutes)
Juphal to Trek starts
This is the fastest and most commonly used route.
Route 2: Road + Trek (Budget Option)
Pokhara to Nepalgunj (Bus/Jeep: 10–14 hours)
Nepalgunj to Juphal (Flight or extended trek)
This option is cheaper but significantly longer and physically demanding.
Route Comparison
Route | Time | Cost | Difficulty |
Flight Route | Fast | Higher | Moderate |
Road Route | Slow | Lower | More tiring |
Highlights of the Shey Phoksundo Trek
Suligad Waterfall
Shey Phoksundo Lake
Observe Tibetan culture in the Ringmo Village.
Hike through the rough terrain exploring the remote Nepal.
Discover untouched beauty and rich biodiversity in Shey Phoksundo National Park.
Witness ancient monasteries and understand the culture and heritage of the Himalayas of Nepal.
Encounter endangered species like Blue Sheep, Musk Deer, Tibetan Argali, and even the Snow Leopard.
Permit Required for Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek
Exploring the pristine beauty of Shey Phoksundo Lake in the heart of the Himalayas is an adventure of a lifetime. To ensure a smooth and lawful journey, it is essential to obtain the necessary permits.
Here is our comprehensive guide to the permits required for your Pokhara to Shey Phoksundo Lake trek:
Shey-Phoksundo National Park Permit
Cost: USD 30 per individual (no time limit)
Shey Phoksundo National Park is the largest national park in Nepal, spanning 3,555 km², and was established in 1984 to protect the unique Trans-Himalayan habitat.
The park is situated at the summit of Kanjiroba Himal and is home to diverse flora and fauna, including the Himalayan black bear, snow leopard, grey wolf, musk deer, and more. The iconic Phoksundo Lake is located in the Upper Dolpo region within the park.
Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Entry Permit
Cost: USD 20 per person per week + USD 5 for each additional day
Trekkers intending to enter Upper Dolpo must acquire two Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Entry Permits.
The first permit is for entering Lower Dolpo and exiting (to enter Upper Dolpo), and the second is for leaving Upper Dolpo and re-entering Lower Dolpo before departing. This ensures the regulatory submission necessary for trekking in this restricted region.
Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Entry Permit
Cost: USD 500 per person (for the first 10 days) + USD 50 per person for each day beyond 10 days
The Upper Dolpo Trekking Permit is crucial for exploring the Shey Phoksundo Rural Municipality, Dolpo Buddha Rural Municipality (wards no. 4 to 6), and Charka Tangsong Rural Municipality (wards no. 1 to 6).
This permit allows you to explore the remote and stunning landscapes of Upper Dolpo, making your trek an unforgettable experience.
Documents Required for Permit
Given that Dolpo is a restricted area, acquiring permits must be done through an authorized service. Most Dolpo treks involve camping, and it is mandatory to trek in pairs; solo permits are not issued.
To obtain a Dolpo trekking permit, make a reservation with an authorized trekking company. The agency will request your original passport, a valid visa, and a passport-size photo to process the necessary permits for your journey.
Total Cost Breakdown for Shey Phoksundo Trek
Here is a realistic breakdown of total expenses:
Flights (Pokhara to Nepalgunj to Juphal): $300 – $500
Permits: $50 – $600 (depending on route)
Food: $15 – $30 per day
Accommodation: $5 – $15 per night
Guide: $25 – $40 per day
Porter: $15 – $25 per day
Estimated Total Cost: $1000 – $2000 per person
Best Time to Visit Shey Phoksundo Lake
Spring Season
In Nepal, spring starts in March and ends in May, and is regarded as the ideal time to trek any trail in Nepal. For the Shey Phoksundo Trek, spring is ideal because the temperature is moderate, and the weather is favorable.
Spring is also the prime time to bloom the national flower of Nepal, the Rhododendron, making the path of Shey Phoksundo vibrant and beautiful.
Autumn Season
Autumn ( end of September to November ) is also a delightful time to trek the Shey Phoksundo Lake trail.
During autumn, the view of the mountains and surrounding landscapes is clearest as the skies are clear. Trekking trails in Nepal are busy during this time, you will get a chance to meet fellow trekkers on your way.
Pokhara to Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek Itinerary
Day 01: Pokhara to Nepalgunj by Flight (25 Minutes)
On day 1 of our journey, we seize our flight to Nepalgunj from Pokhara. Nepalgunj is in the western Terai of Nepal.
Additionally, Nepalgunj is an industrial hub and a major transportation junction for many parts of Nepal.
Day 2: Flight to Juphal from Nepalgunj, and Trek to Dunai
The trekking journey to Phey Phoksundo Lake begins from Jupal. An aircraft fly you to Juphal Airport from Nepalgunj in approximately 20 minutes.
During your flight, you can enjoy the view of Nepal's majestic snow-covered mountains. Once you land, your journey continues with a trek alongside the Bheri River and through charming villages, ultimately leading you to the Dunai.
Day 3: Trek to Chhekpa
On the third day, your path leads you to Chhekpa, which serves as the gateway to Shey Phoksundo National Park. Covering a distance of approximately 15 kilometers, you trek a gently ascending trail on this day.
Day 3 also serves as a valuable acclimatization period, preparing you for the adventure ahead.
Day 4: Trek to Chunuwar
On day 4, you get to take a glimpse of Phoksundo Lake from a distance. You trek through vast meadows, lush forests, and the valley of Phoksundo and waterfalls.
The trail is rough, with regular small ascents and descents.
Day 5: Trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake
You continue your hike to reach Ringmo village, along the shores of Phoksundo Lake. Day 5 offers a remarkable journey to the breathtaking Phoksundo Lake and its enchanting surroundings.
The breathtaking sight of the lake unfolds right before your eyes. Moreover, you also get a chance to engage with the friendly and warm locals.
Day 6: Trek back to Chhepka
You retrace your way back to Chhepka village from Phoksundo on day 6.
Day 7: Trek to Juphal
You hike about 6-8 hours, 19km to reach Juphal. You spend a night at Juphal and bid farewell to your trekking journey as you return to Pokhara the next day.
Day 8: Drive back to Pokhara
You bid your Shey Phoksundo Lake journey goodbye on your eighth day of the journey. You drive back to Pokhara, reminiscing about your trekking adventure from Pokhara to Shey Phoksundo Lake.
Food and Accommodation During the Trek
During the trek, accommodation options are mainly tea houses and local lodges. These provide basic facilities such as beds, blankets, and simple meals.
Food options typically include:
Dal Bhat
Noodles
Soup
Tea and coffee
Facilities are basic, especially in remote areas, so trekkers should be prepared for limited luxury but authentic local experiences.
Altitude Sickness and Safety Tips
Altitude sickness is a common concern when trekking above 3,000 meters.
Common symptoms:
Headache
Nausea
Dizziness
Shortness of breath
Prevention tips:
Acclimatize properly
Stay hydrated
Avoid rapid ascent
Take rest days if needed
Packing List for Shey Phoksundo Trek
Essential items to carry:
Warm clothing (layered)
Trekking boots
Sleeping bag
Water bottle
First aid kit
Snacks and energy bars
Trekking poles
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Pokhara to Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek Difficulty
The Shey Phoksundo Lake trek is categorized as a moderate-level trek. This means that while it presents challenges, it is accessible to individuals with a good level of physical fitness and mental preparation.
Trekkers should be ready for varying terrains, altitude changes, and extended walking durations. Being in good physical condition is essential for tackling this moderate trek.
The journey involves trekking through diverse landscapes, including forests, meadows, and rocky terrains.
The highest point reached during the trek is the Ringmo viewpoint, situated at an elevation of 3641 meters (11,945 feet). While this altitude is not extremely high, it is still important to be mindful of potential altitude-related challenges.
Is Shey Phoksundo Trek Worth It?
Yes, the Shey Phoksundo Trek is worth it for travelers seeking remote Himalayan beauty, cultural richness, and less crowded trekking routes compared to popular trails in Nepal.
Conclusion
The Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek allows adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers to immerse themselves in the remote and pristine beauty of Nepal. Shey Phoksundo National Park is filled with breathtaking landscapes, a unique cultural tapestry, and rich biodiversity, offering a special trekking experience like no other route.
Every trekker is captivated by the serene turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake, nestled between the snow-capped peaks and dense forests. The warm hospitality of the local inhabitants adds a unique cultural dimension to your adventure.
The trek itinerary takes you through spectacular highlights, including Suligad Waterfall, the awe-inspiring Shey Phoksundo Lake, and interactions with the Ringmo Village community.
Moreover, you explore remote and rugged terrain, discover untouched natural beauty, and encounter rare species like Blue Sheep, Musk Deer, Tibetan Argali, and possibly the elusive Snow Leopard.
We hope this blog provides you with the essential information and inspiration to embark on an unforgettable journey to one of Nepal’s hidden gems.
FAQs
Is Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek suitable for beginner trekkers?
Yes, beginner trekkers can complete the trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake in about 7-12 days. However, it is essential to keep in mind that the trekking path consists of rough trails, and fluctuation in elevation can cause altitude sickness and fatigue to many beginner hikers.
Where is Shey Phoksundo Lake?
Shey Phoksundo Lake is located in the Dolpa District of Nepal, inside Shey Phoksundo National Park. The lake is situated at an elevation of 3,611 meters above sea level. There are multiple ways to get to Shey Phoksundo Lake: by road, hiking, or by helicopter. There is no direct roadway to reach the lake; thus, you should take many buses combined with hikes to get there if you wish to go by road.
Does everyone experience altitude sickness on the Shey Phoksundo Trek?
The elevation is over 3,500 meters above sea level, causing a high risk of altitude sickness for trekkers. To avoid altitude sickness, one should have enough time to acclimatize and stay hydrated throughout the trek.
Do I need a guide and porters for the Phey Phoksundo Lake route?
Hiring a local guide is mandatory for international trekkers for most of the trekking trails in Nepal. A professional guide can provide you with valuable insights into the culture and terrain along the way. While a porter can lighten the burden of your backpack during your trekking journey. The journey can be organized and hassle-free if you hire a guide through a reputable trekking agency.