Trip Highlights
Visit the stunning turquoise Shey Phoksundo Lake, one of Nepal’s most beautiful high-altitude lakes, surrounded by cliffs and snowy peaks.
Walk through Shey Phoksundo National Park, home to rare wildlife like blue sheep, musk deer, and even the elusive snow leopard.
Experience the unique Bon and Tibetan-influenced culture of Dolpo, one of the last places in Nepal where ancient traditions are still alive.
Trek on peaceful and less-crowded trails, far away from the busy routes of Everest or Annapurna, perfect for those seeking quiet and natural beauty.
Enjoy diverse landscapes, from green forests and waterfalls to dry, highland valleys that look almost like Tibet.
Stay in warm local teahouses and experience the simple mountain lifestyle of the Dolpo people.
Scenic flights to and from Juphal, offering breathtaking aerial views of western Nepal’s hills and Himalayan ranges.
Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek Overview
The Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek takes you to one of Nepal’s most peaceful and beautiful places, the Dolpo region in western Nepal. This trek is famous for its deep turquoise lake, traditional Bon culture, and quiet mountain trails that feel untouched by time.
The trek begins with a short flight to Juphal, the gateway to Dolpo, followed by days of walking through green forests, waterfalls, and rocky trails along the Phoksundo River. As you reach the highland village of Ringmo, the view of the blue-green lake surrounded by cliffs and snow-capped peaks feels truly magical.
Unlike many busy trekking routes in Nepal, the Shey Phoksundo trek is still quiet and less crowded. You’ll walk through small villages where people live a simple lifestyle, influenced by the ancient Bon religion, which came before Buddhism. Every turn of the trail offers something different, from deep valleys and hanging bridges to dry highlands that look almost like Tibet.
The trek is suitable for anyone with normal fitness who enjoys nature, culture, and peaceful walks away from tourist crowds. It’s not only about reaching the lake but also about feeling the slow rhythm of life in Dolpo, where tradition and nature still live side by side.
How Difficult Is the Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek?
The Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek is considered a moderate trek, which means it’s suitable for most people with normal fitness levels. You don’t need any special training or previous trekking experience, but being active and comfortable walking for several hours a day will make your trek more enjoyable.
Most of the trail goes through gentle up-and-down paths along rivers, forests, and villages. There are some long walking days and gradual climbs, especially as you get closer to Phoksundo Lake, but there are no high passes or very steep sections like in other Himalayan treks. The highest point of the trek is around 3,611 meters, which is much lower than high-altitude treks such as Everest Base Camp Trek or Annapurna Circuit Trek.
You will be walking for about5–6 hours a dayon average, taking plenty of breaks to rest, enjoy tea, and soak in the scenery. The air gets cooler and thinner at higher altitudes, so walking slowly and staying hydrated helps you adjust easily.
The main challenge of this trek is its remoteness, as Dolpo is one of Nepal’s least developed areas. Services are simple, and you may not find luxuries like hot showers or Wi-Fi every day.
So, if you’re someone who enjoys walking in nature, experiencing local culture, and doesn’t mind basic comfort, the Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek is absolutely for you.
Is Shey Phoksundo Trek Suitable for You?
Yes, the Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek is suitable for anyone who enjoys walking, nature, and cultural experiences rather than chasing high mountains or challenging climbs. You don’t need to be an expert trekker, a normal level of fitness and a positive mindset are more than enough.
If you can walk 5 to 6 hours a day at a steady pace, you can comfortably complete this trek. It’s also a great choice for those who prefer peaceful, less crowded trails, where you can truly connect with the environment and local life. The paths are not too steep or technical, but there are some ups and downs, especially near Jharna and as you reach Phoksundo Lake.
The remoteness of Dolpo means facilities are basic, rooms are simple, and food choices are limited compared to other regions like Annapurna or Everest. But that’s part of the adventure. You’ll stay in local teahouses and eat freshly cooked Nepali meals, which adds to the authentic village experience.
Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek Cost 2025/2026 – What You Should Know
The Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek generally costs between USD 2,150 and USD 2,550 for a 13 days itinerary. The total cost depends on factors like group size, accommodation type, and included services. Most packages already cover trekking permits, meals, lodging, and a licensed guide, offering great value for such a remote and unforgettable experience.
At Himalayan Joy Adventure, we provide fair and flexible pricing for this trek. Bigger groups receive better rates, while solo travelers or smaller teams still enjoy our full support and the same high standard of care. You can check the detailed cost breakdown below.
No. of Pax | Starting price (Per Person) |
---|---|
2 - 5 pax | US$2550 |
6 - 10 pax | US$2450 |
11 - 15 pax | US$2350 |
16 - 20 pax | US$2250 |
21 - 25 pax | US$2150 |
If you’d like to customize your Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek or plan your trip on specific dates, you can contact us anytime via WhatsApp for personal assistance.