Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek Via Upper Dolpo
5(149)
Itinerary
Your Journey, Step by Step
Arrival in Kathmandu
The view of snow-capped mountain peaks greets you as you fly into Kathmandu. Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, the Bold Himalaya representative will pick you up and transfer you to the hotel. If you have time, then you can explore the city. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Fly to Nepalgunj
After breakfast, you’ll take an hour flight to Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, located in western Nepal. Nepalgunj, a town near the Nepal-India border, is also the gateway to Simikot, Humla. You have time to explore the Nepalgunj local markets. Overnight in Nepalgunj.
Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal & trek to Chhepka
After a pleasant overnight at Nepalgunj, we fly to Juphal after breakfast. It’s only a 35-minute flight, over steep mountain ridges with a beautiful view of snowcapped mountains. The town is located in the Himalayan foothills, with views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks to its north.
From Juphal, our trek starts as we walk down over a small path among fields with wheat and vegetables to the Thuli Bheri River. A big iron suspension bridge, Dhim Bridge (99 m long), forms the entrance to the Shey Phoksundo National Park. The path follows the Suli Khola River.
At the end of the day, we reach Chhepka, walking through the path surrounded by pine trees, like spruce, fir, juniper, and cypress, and small bamboo forests and walnut trees. Chhepka is a small village, surrounded by fields of millet and wheat. Overnight at a tented camp.
Trek to Chunuwar / Amchi Hospital
Today, we are trekking towards Chunuwar after breakfast. The path goes through a beautiful pine forest, with some bushes, birches, and other broadleaf trees mixed in as well. It’s following the river all the time with a couple of steeper climbs and descents. On the way, you encounter local people with their mules or dzopas (a crossbreed between yak and cows) loaded with things to sell. After four hours, we pass the village of Rechi. And it’s two hours more to Chunuwar.
It is very interesting and worth visiting the place. The Amchi Hospital is a well-frequented clinic serving local communities. An Amchi is a traditional healer trained in Tibetan medicine, a system that has been practiced for thousands of years. Diagnosis is carried out using techniques such as pulse reading and urine analysis. Treatments involve herbal and mineral-based medicines, often combined with physical therapies like Tibetan acupuncture. Overnight stay at a tented camp.
Trek to Phoksundo Lake
Today, we’ll trek to the deepest lake in Nepal, Phoksundo Lake. It includes a long and sometimes steep climb of about 2 hours. You can see Nepal’s highest waterfall, a spectacular waterfall of 167 meters high, the Phoksundo waterfall (Suligad Waterfall), and you will have the first view of Phoksundo Lake.
This is one of the most rewarding days of the trek. As you ascend, the landscape opens up dramatically, revealing the stunning turquoise waters of Shey Phoksundo Lake. Surrounded by barren cliffs and snow-capped peaks, the lake feels almost surreal, a true Himalayan gem. Overnight in Phoksundo.
Rest day at Phoksundo Lake and explore Ringmo Village
A well-deserved rest day to soak in the beauty of the region. You can explore Ringmo Village, a traditional Tibetan-style village with stone houses and prayer flags fluttering in the wind. Walk along the lake, visit monasteries, and experience the deep-rooted culture of the local people.Â
Trek to Phoksundo Bhanjyang
Leaving the lake behind, the trail becomes more rugged and remote. You’ll follow narrow paths carved into cliffs, with dramatic views of the valley below. A long climb brings us to a sheep pasture where our trail veers up a steep ravine and a hard climb to yet another valley. During our trek, we get to admire the views of Chhamlang peak 6 (6,739m) and peak 7 (6,105m). Overnight at camp near the pass in a place that Peter Matthiessen christened ‘Snowfields Camp’. The journey to Phoksundo Bhanjyang marks your entry into the high and isolated terrain of Upper Dolpo.
Trek to Shey Gompa via Kang La
A challenging but unforgettable day as you cross the high Kang La Pass. In the morning, we ascend on a trail littered with slate towards the pass. Walking through a strenuous trail will take you to Kang-La Pass. The views from the top are breathtaking, stretching across endless Himalayan ranges.
Next, the path meanders along the riverbank, crossing and re-crossing it several times. A red Chorten heralds our arrival at Shey Gompa (4,500m), where a quaint wooden log bridge leads up to our destination at the Shey Gompa compound. We will be spending the night at camp.
Rest day at Shey Gompa
Take a day to acclimatize and explore the monastery. Shey Gompa is deeply spiritual, often called the ‘heart of Dolpo.’ You can visit the crystal monastery and observe local pilgrims performing rituals in this serene and sacred setting. To the east of Shey Gompa lies Crystal Mountain (Ribo Drugta). Shey Gompa is the most popular monastery in Upper Dolpo. Hundreds of Buddhist devotees visit Shey Gompa yearly.
Trek to Namgung via Shey La
Today, we will be crossing another pass, the Shey La, also called Gelu La (5,100m). The climb to the pass goes through a narrow valley. We’ll have a good view to the north of the arid Tibetan Plateau, which stretches out seemingly endlessly before you. And to the east, you see Mustang.
After the pass, it’s a long descent to the pastures of Namgung. Scattered in the landscape, we will see some fields, often with a large Tibetan tent, as they are too far from the village to go there and back each day. Overnight at a tented camp.
Trek to Saldang
On today’s short hiking, the path goes high above Namgung Khola and then descends steeply to the village of Saldang. Saldang is the largest settlement of Inner-Dolpo, a spread-out traditional agricultural village surrounded by fields. The village is rich in Tibetan culture, with monasteries, chortens, and friendly locals welcoming trekkers. As the village stretches for nearly two kilometers on an open slope and consists of five villages having about eighty well-built houses and nearly six hundred people. Overnight in Saldang.
Trek to Sibu
Today’s walk is relatively easy, following wide trails along river valleys. You’ll pass ancient trade routes once used for salt caravans between Tibet and Nepal before reaching the quiet settlement of Sibu. The path goes alongside many Mani walls, Chortens, and some Gompas. Overnight at tented camps.
Trek to Lagmo Che
Today our trail starts with an easy stretch. Following the river, you enter a large inhabited valley passing Raka village. You can look out for blue sheep here, and you may even come across a snow leopard. The path turns away from the river and climbs steeply to a meadow of about 4570m after 3-4 hours of trekking. This is Lagmo Che, the base camp for climbing to the Jeng La. Overnight in a tented camp.
Trek to Tokyu
A demanding day as you cross the high Jeng La Pass. We’ll have about 2 hours steep climb. You’ll see spectacular views of Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and many other snowcapped mountains from here. Then, you descend into the Tokyu valley. You follow the stream to Tokyo village, a village known for its ancient monasteries and peaceful surroundings. Overnight in tented camps.
Tokyo to Dho Tarap
Today, the route leads eastward along the downhill course of Tarap Chu in a plain valley with patches of lush grass on both sides of the river, which is completely different from other parts of inner Dolpo. There is also a marsh, which is a common feature in the Desert Mountains of Tibet and the Ladakh Himalaya.
After a short trek, we reach Dho Tarap. Dho Tarap, one of the highest permanent human settlements in the world, is the junction of trails leading to Mustang, Jomsom, and Tibet. This village is vast and open, surrounded by rolling hills and traditional villages. Overnight in Dho Tarap.
Dho Tarap to Sisaul
We’ll have time to explore Dho Tarap in the morning, as today is a short trek. Then, our trek descends towards a valley that finally turns into a gorge as we trek further. Gradually, we can see the landscapes changing and some bushes appearing. The trail becomes more dramatic, with cliffs and river crossings as you head towards Sisaul. Overnight at tented camps.
Sisaul to Laina Odar
After spending the night at Sisual, we head towards Laina Odar. We’ll walk through deep canyons and along riverbanks with high rocks towering above you on both sides. The landscape is still pretty barren. After 3 to 4 hours of walking, we reach Nawarpani. After Nawarpani, the landscape gets quickly greener, and the trail goes through a pine forest.
Continuing our walk, we reach Laina Odar. Laina Odar, a cave-like campsite beneath overhanging rocks, offers a unique and memorable overnight stop.
Laina Odar to Lingdo
Continuing through the gorge, the trail gradually opens up as you move towards Lingdo. As you gradually descends, crossing wooden bridges and passing occasional herder camps, the scenery slowly transforms from tight canyon walls into a wider, more open valley with striking views of barren hills, wind-carved cliffs, and distant snow-capped peaks, and the final stretch becomes comparatively gentler as the trail winds across open terrain leading to Lingdo, a quite and remote campsite set in a broad valley where trekkers can rest, take in the vast Himalayan surroundings. Overnight in Lingdo.
Lingdo to Dunai
Today, we’ll trek from Lingdo to Dunai, which is a gradual descent through river valleys, forests, and scattered settlements. The trail becomes easier compared to upper Dolpo, with more greenery and signs of local life along the way. After several hours of walking, you arrive in Dunai, the district headquarters, where basic facilities and a more developed environment mark the transition out of the remote wilderness. Overnight in Dunai.
Dunai to Juphal
From Dunai, we’ll lead to the Juphal. The trek passes through the suspension bridge and the small village of Karaganda. After a steep climb and passing the Dangiwada, Juphal arrives. A short and pleasant trek brings you back to Juphal, where your trekking journey officially ends. It’s a reflective walk, giving you time to absorb the incredible experience of Upper Dolpo. Overnight in Juphal.
Fly from Juphal-Nepalgunj & back to Kathmandu
Having a morning breakfast, you’ll take the first flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj, a short scenic flight for about 35 minutes. After that, you’ll board the flight to Kathmandu, depending on the flight schedule. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Inclusions
What’s Covered in Your Adventure
- Pick up and drop off at the airport
- All Domestic airport transfers as per the itinerary
- 4* hotel accommodation in Kathmandu, 1 night hotel accommodation in Nepalgunj
- Tent Camps/Tea House accommodation during trekking
- 3 meals a day(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) as mention in itinerary
- All necessary Permits
- Professional government license holder, English-speaking trekking guide
- Porters to carry the luggage, food, and tent during the trek
- Sleeping bag and duffel bag during the trek(Return after the trek)
- A comprehensive medical kit
- All government and local taxes
- International airfare
- Entry Visa fee
- Travel Insurance
- Any beverages, alcoholic or cold drinks
- Extra food that is not mentioned in the itinerary
- Personal gears and expenses
- Tips for the trekking crews
Good to Know
Your Journey, Step by Step
Difficulty Level
The Shey Phoksundo National Park via Upper Dolpo trek is considered strenuous to challenging, making it suitable for experienced trekkers with strong physical fitness and some prior high-altitude experience. The trek involves long walking days of 6-8 hours on rugged and often exposed trails, including steep ascents, descents, and narrow paths along cliffs. A major challenge is the high altitude, as the route frequently rises above 4,000 meters and crosses demanding passes like Kang La (5,300m), where proper acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness.
In addition to the physical demands, the remoteness of Upper Dolpo significantly increases the difficulty level. Weather conditions can be harsh and unpredictable, with cold temperatures and strong winds at higher elevations. Combined with limited access to medical help and communication, this trek requires good preparation, mental resilience, and a willingness to embrace isolation, but it rewards trekkers with a truly unique and untouched Himalayan experience.
Permits for Upper Dolpo Trek
For the Shey Phoksundo National Park via Upper Dolpo trek, several permits are required due to the region’s restricted and protected status. These permits are mandatory and must be arranged through a registered trekking agency in Nepal, as independent trekking is not allowed.
The main permit is the Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit, which is one of the most expensive trekking permits in Nepal. It typically costs around USD 500 per person for the first 10 days, with an additional daily fee (around USD 50) for extra days. In addition to this, trekkers must obtain the Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit, which costs around NPR 3,000 for foreign nationals. If your route includes lower Dolpo sections, a Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit may also be required.
You will also need to have a licensed guide and be part of a registered trekking group (a minimum of two trekkers is usually required for restricted areas). Your agency will handle all paperwork, including TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) if applicable, although TIMS is often not required for restricted regions like Upper Dolpo.
Accommodation
Accommodation in the Shey Phoksundo National Park via the Upper Dolpo trek is basic and varies depending on the section of the route. In the lower parts of the trek, especially around villages like Dunai and Ringmo near Phoksundo Lake, trekkers can find simple teahouses or lodges that provide basic rooms with twin beds, blankets, and shared facilities. These teahouses offer a warm place to rest, but amenities are minimal, with limited electricity, hot water, and internet access.
As you move deeper into Upper Dolpo, accommodation shifts primarily to fully supported camping due to the extreme remoteness and lack of infrastructure. Tents are set up by your trekking crew, and all logistics, including food, sleeping arrangements, and kitchen equipment, are carried along the route.
Campsites are usually set in scenic but isolated locations, often near rivers or open valleys. While camping provides a more adventurous and immersive experience, trekkers should be prepared for cold nights, basic sanitation, and a complete disconnect from modern comforts.
Food
Food in the Shey Phoksundo National Park via Upper Dolpo trek is simple, hearty, and designed to keep you energized throughout long trekking days.
In the lower sections, especially around villages like Ringmo, teahouses offer a limited but familiar menu including dal bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables), noodles, fried rice, soups, Tibetan bread, potatoes, and occasionally eggs or basic pasta dishes. Meals are freshly prepared, but choices are fewer compared to the more popular trekking regions.
As you move into the remote Upper Dolpo region, food becomes more dependent on camping logistics, with meals prepared by your trekking crew. The menu is still nourishing but more controlled, typically including dal bhat, pasta, noodles, soups, porridge, pancakes, tea, and coffee.
Fresh ingredients become scarce at higher elevations, so meals may rely on dried or pre-carried supplies. While the variety is limited, the focus is on providing sufficient energy and warmth, and trekkers are often surprised by the quality of meals prepared in such remote conditions. Carrying some personal snacks like energy bars, nuts, and chocolates is highly recommended for extra energy during long trekking days.
Altitude Sickness
The Shey Phoksundo National Park via Upper Dolpo trek involves significant altitude gain, making altitude sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness – AMS) one of the most important risks to be aware of. The trek regularly ascends above 3,500 meters and reaches extreme elevations over 5,000 meters at high passes like Kang La, where oxygen levels are much lower than at sea level. At these heights, even fit and experienced trekkers can be affected.
Common symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, dizziness, nausea, loss of appetite, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping. If ignored, AMS can develop into more serious conditions such as HAPE (fluid in the lungs) or HACE (brain swelling), which are medical emergencies. That’s why a slow and well-planned itinerary with proper acclimatization days, especially around places like Phoksundo Lake and Shey Gompa, is essential for safety.
To reduce risk, trekkers should ascend gradually, stay well hydrated, avoid alcohol, and listen carefully to their bodies. Descending immediately is the only effective treatment if symptoms worsen. Because Upper Dolpo is extremely remote with limited rescue options, prevention is far more important than treatment, making preparation, pacing, and awareness absolutely critical for a safe trekking experience.
Packing List for this trek
Packing for the Shey Phoksundo National Park via Upper Dolpo trek requires careful preparation because the region is remote, high-altitude, and has very limited facilities. You should be fully self-sufficient, especially in the upper sections where camping is the main mode of accommodation.
Clothing (Layering is Essential)
- Thermal base layers (top & bottom)
- Fleece or warm mid-layer jacket
- Heavy down jacket (very important for cold nights)
- Waterproof/windproof shell jacket and pants
- Trekking pants (2–3 pairs)
- Warm hat, sun hat, and neck gaiter/buff
- Insulated gloves + light gloves
- Wool/synthetic socks (several pairs)
- Sturdy waterproof trekking boots (well broken-in)
- Camp shoes/sandals for evenings
Camping & Sleeping Gear
- Four-season sleeping bag (-15°C to -25°C rated recommended)
- Sleeping bag liner (for extra warmth)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Trekking poles (highly recommended for steep terrain)
Personal Essentials
- Daypack (25–35L)
- Large duffel bag (carried by porters/yaks)
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- High SPF sunscreen + lip balm
- Reusable water bottles or hydration systems
- Water purification tablets/filter
Health & Safety
- First aid kit (blister care, painkillers, bandages)
- Personal medications
- Altitude sickness medication (consult a doctor before trek)
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
Food & Extras
- Energy bars, nuts, and chocolates (important for long trekking days)
- Electrolyte powder
- Lightweight snacks for quick energy
Important Extras
- Cash (Nepali rupees for remote areas)
- Passport copies + permits
- Power bank / solar charger (electricity is limited)
- Camera with spare batteries
FAQs
Your Questions, Answered
How difficult is the Upper Dolpo via Shey Phoksundo Trek?
It is considered a strenuous and remote trek. Expect long walking days, high passes (above 5,000m), and limited facilities. Prior trekking experience at high altitude is strongly recommended.
What is the maximum altitude of this trek?
The trek can reach elevations of around 5,360 meters/17,585 feet, especially when crossing high passes like Kang La and exploring Upper Dolpo routes.
How many days does the trek take?
Typically, the full Upper Dolpo–Shey Phoksundo route takes 18 to 25 days, depending on the itinerary and side trips.
Do I need permits for Upper Dolpo and Shey Phoksundo?
Yes. You need multiple permits:
- Restricted Area Permit (Upper Dolpo)
- Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit
- TIMS Card (depending on route regulations)
What kind of accommodation is available?
Accommodation is very basic. You’ll mostly stay in tented camps or very simple teahouses in the lower sections. Upper Dolpo is largely camping-based due to its remoteness.
Is the Upper Dolpo trek safe?
Yes, it is generally safe with a licensed guide and proper preparation. However, its remoteness means you must be self-sufficient and well-prepared for emergencies.
Is altitude sickness a risk?
Yes, altitude sickness is a major concern due to rapid elevation gain. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and a slow trekking pace are essential.
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