Duration : 13 Days - 12 Nights Distance : 87km (Trekking) Trip Hour : 6-7 Highest Altitude : 3611m Start Point : Kathmandu End Point : Kathmandu Transport : Car, Jeep, Plane, Bus Accommodation : Tea House Meal : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Guide : Local Guide Best Season : Mar-May, Oct-Dec Extra Service : On Request
  • Overview

  • Itinerary

  • Includes

  • Excludes

  • Booking

  • FAQ

  • Useful Information

  • Downloads

Group Discount Rates for this Trip *

Number(s) of Pax Price per person
1 Person USD 2,400 per person
2 Persons USD 1,750 per person
3 to 5 Persons USD 1,660 per person
6 to 9 Persons USD 1,505 per person
10 to 13 Persons USD 1,430 per person
More than 13 Persons Please Contact Us for Special Price

* You can select your number of pax when you book your trip.

Trip Overview

Dolpa Trek exploring Shy Phoksundo Lake is an extraordinary trip in life to experience adventure, flowers and fauna, the deepest lake with dramatic blue water, the biggest waterfall in Nepal just near Shey Phoksundo Lake. The Bon monastery and culture still following in Ringmo village is one of the oldest religions in Tibet. There are only a few villages in Nepal, including Ringmo Village near Phoksundo Lak, still following the Bon religion.
Shy Phoksundo Lake is about 145 meters deep, almost 5sq km wide and situated at 3611 meters above sea level inside Shy Phoksundo national park in Dolpa district, the northern west of Nepal. It is about 35 km from district headquarters Dunai. It takes a few days to trek from Jhuphal following the Suligad river.
The Dolpa trek starts with a more than 12-hour drive or an almost one-hour flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, then the next morning flight from Nepalgunj to Jhuphal airport in Dolpa. Then the trek will start at Shy Phoksundo Lake, passing through some local villages.

 

Below is our day to day Itinerary of the Dolpa Trek 13 days.

Itineraries

Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu 1370 meter

A representative from Guide for Nepal Pvt. Ltd. will heartily welcome to you in Tribhuvan international (TIA) airport 1370 meter from sea level in any time of your arrival and help you transfer to hotel at Thamel. Kathmandu is capital city of Nepal and it is normally busy during the day. It is about 15-25 minutes’ drive from airport to Thamel. It depends on your arrival time and traffic. You might have some time to explore Thamel or visit some important place in Kathmandu city and final preparation for Trekking from next day.

Day 02

Kathmandu to Nepalgunj 150 meter

Visit Swoyambhunath and Boudhanath is Nepal’s most significant Buddhist stupas, deeply rooted in history and spirituality. Swoyambhunath, dating back to at least the 5th century CE, is believed to have emerged as a self-existent flame from a lotus in a primordial lake, later drained by Bodhisattva Manjushri to create the Kathmandu Valley. Fly to Nepalgunj 150m in the afternoon and overnight there.

Day 3

Nepalgunj to Dunai 2140 meter

Jhuphal flight always operates from early morning due to mountain weather conditions in Dolpa airport. It’s about a 35-minute flight from Nepalgunj to Jhuphal airport. Jhuphal is a small village situated at 2475m above sea level on a mountain slope above the Thuli Veri river in Dolph district. The trek starts from Jhuphal, going downhill, passing the village towards Thuli Veri river bank and follows the main trail to Dunai 2140 meters, which normally takes 2–3 hours. Dunai Bazaar is the district headquarters of Dolpa located at 2140m on the bank of the Thuli Veri river.

Day 4

Dunai to Chhepka 2835 meter

The trek starts from Dunai by following the Thuli Veri river towards Suligad to enter Shy Phoksundo National Park check post where you buy/pay a park fee of Rs. 3000 for foreigners and Rs. 100 for domestic tourists just for a single entry. From Suligad trail follow Suligad River all the way to Chhpka 2835 meters. The total time might be 4–6 hours, including tea/lunch break.

Day 5

Chhepka to Jharana hotel 3130 meter

The Chhepka to Jharana hotel is about 5–6 hours trek following the Suligad River, walking through mixed forest with some steps up and some gradual uphill passing Rachi village, where most people stop for lunch break. Jharana hotel is a small place situated at 3130 meters above sea level on the river bank of Phoksundo khola.

Day 6

Jharana hotel to Phoksundo Lake/Ringmo Village 3611 meter

Jharana hotel to Phoksundo lake/Ringmo village is a 3–4 hours trek mostly uphill, ascending 500 meters, enjoying beautiful views including the biggest waterfall in Nepal. Ringo village is situated at 3611 meters high from sea level just near Phoksundo Lake. The interesting thing is that all the people from Ringo village still follow the Bon religion, which is one of the oldest religions in Tibet, even before Buddhism in Tibet.

Day 7

Phoksundo Lake/Ringmo village to Jharana hotel 3130 meter

Today is an easy and special day of the Dolpa Trek. You can take more time to enjoy the view around Phoksundo Lake, visit Bon monastery located near Phoksundo Lake and walk to a tower just above the village for a better view, then start your trek back to Jharana hotel after lunch.

Day 8

Jharana hotel to Dunai 2140 meter

The trek from Jharana hotel to Dunai is mostly downhill following suligad river, walking through some mixed forest along the same trail you walked on the way up to Phoksundo Lake. It takes 4–6 hours, including lunch break.

Day 9

Dunai to Jhuphal 2474 meter

The trek from Dunai to Jhuphal is just 2–3 hours easily walking along the Thuli Veri river bank and the last part is some step uphill to Jhuphal. This last day of the trek will finish before lunch. You will have enough time in the afternoon to explore around Jhuphal, reconfirm your ticket for next morning and celebrate the last day.

Day 10

Jhuphal to Lumbini 150 meter

The Jhuphal to Nepalgunj flight normally operates from early morning. Make sure you reach the airport on time, just a few minutes from the village. After landing at Nepalgunj airport, the drive starts directly towards Lumbini, which is about 241 km road distance roughly takes 5 hours. Explore the Mayadevi Temple area in Lumbini in the afternoon or take a rest and wait for next morning.

Day 11

Lumbini to Kathmandu 1370 meter

Explore Mayadevi Temple and other monasteries in Lumbini. Enjoy and take enough time in such an important holy place where Buddha was born and flight back to Kathmandu in the afternoon.

Day 12

Extra day in Kathmandu 1370 meter

Today is a free day for your own to rest/shop/explore. There is not any official program for today, but if you want to do some activity in Kathmandu, Guide for Nepal Pvt Ltd will arrange transportation/Guide at your request at extra cost. (This extra day is kept on the itinerary in case the flight is canceled out in Jhuphal because of bad weather)

Day 13

Back to home country

If your flight time is late afternoon or evening, you can visit some place in Kathmandu your own or if you need help, we can provide guide and vehicle on extra charge. Otherwise, be ready at hotel on time as per your flight details to catch international flight. A Representative from Guide for Nepal Pvt Ltd will arrange transportation and drop you in Tribhuvan international (TIA) airport and good bye for this time wishing safe journey back to home.

 

Cost Includes:

  • Arrival & Departure Transport By private Car/Van /Bus as per group size.
  • Three-night hotel in Kathmandu in twin bed room with breakfast.
  • One-night normal hotel in Nepalgunj in twin bed room with breakfast.
  • One-night normal hotel in Lumbini in twin bed room with breakfast.
  • Seven-night normal tea house/home stay in trek
  • Three meals, four cups of hot drinks during the trekking, (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
  • Seasonal fresh fruits as dessert.
  • Welcome drinks and farewell dinner.
  • Kathmandu-Nepalgunj, Lumbini-Kathmandu by flight for clients & guide.
  • Kathmandu-Jhuphal-Kathmandu ground transportation for porter.
  • Normal local food/dalbhat during the Trekking.
  • Porter with Insurance. (01 Porter for 02 People).
  • An English-Speaking Trekking Guide with Government Licensed Holder.
  • Trekking starting and ending points by local private jeep/van/Bus as per group size.
  • Very basic First Aid kit.
  • Sleeping bag and company duffel bag during the trek if need.
  • Trekking permit (Shey Phoksundo National park fee). TIMS.
  • Lower Dolpa special trekking permit
  • Insurance for guide and porter.
  • Accommodation, salary, food for guide and porter.

Cost Excludes:

  • International Air fare.
  • Nepal Visa fee.
  • Extra activities in Kathmandu-Nepalgunj-Lumbini
  • Your personal expenses.
  • Drinks, Dessert, bar bill and extra food in trekking.
  • Hot shower, hot water, battery charge, WIFI.
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
  • Hotel in Kathmandu/Nepalgunj/Lumbini and all other expenses if you come early from trek.
  • Hotel in Kathmandu/Nepalgunj/Lumbini and all other expenses if you stay longer than plan.
  • All the expenses if you quit trip on half way.
  • Your Travel Insurance and rescue for emergency case.
  • Tipping for guide, porter and driver.
  • All extra expenses as per unexpected situation (flight delay/cancelled, landslide, weather, strike).
  • All the things which are not mentioned in included items.
Please wait...

Dolpa/phoksundo lake trek is medium hard.

The highest altitude in phoksundo lake trek is 3611 meters.

Normally, 5-7 hours walk every day in trek.

very basic home stay, simple accommodation and sharing room in Dolpa trek.

No, There is not snow all the time.

March to May and October to December is the best time to go Shey phoksundo Lake trek.

The view from Shey phoksundo Lake trek is absolutely amazing.

Useful Information:

  • Read about area where you are trekking soon.
  • Read about weather forecast.
  • Read about culture, religion.
  • Make sure are you physically fit for trek/tour.
  • Double check all the trekking equipment before you start trek.
  • Make sure all gadget is ready/full charged and well dress before start birding tour.
  • If you have brand new trekking boots, use at least few times before trek.
  • Check your flight ticket, trekking permit and other necessary documents before start trek.
  • Read and be clear with your program in details before you start your tour.
  • Better ask permission before taking photograph of someone during the tour.
  • Better not encourage street dog to follow you/group by giving food.
  • Better not encourage children to beg by giving money/candy.
  • Respect local culture.
  • Listen your tour Guide.
  • Follow rule and regulations while you are trekking in national park/conservation area.
  • Eat and drink properly, stay hydrated, read your body and listen AMS alerts while you are in the mountain/trekking.
  • Check your Guide and porter are also fit and fine or not.
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Chermel Wong
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Guide for Nepal attentiveness were nothing short of exceptional. Went on a Mardi Himal trekking adventure, and I cannot express enough gratitude to my incredible guide Phurkel for making this experience truly unforgettable. He ensured that every detail was meticulously planned, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas without a single worry. His extensive knowledge of the trail, surrounding areas and on the types of birds, added an enriching layer to my journey. Highly recommend this company and guide to anyone considering a trekking adventure in the Himalayas. They will undoubtedly enhance your experience. Definitely will be back again to explore other trails in the Himalayas!
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Kelly Lim
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Had an amazing experience of the “Everest View Trek” with Phurkel! Organised and down-to-earth. Ensuring everything ran smoothly from start to finish and always making sure everyone was well taken cared of. His relaxed nature and patience (with our endless questions), along with his insightful sharing about the trails, wildlife and local culture, made the trek stress-free and more “bearable”. 😆 I would highly recommend Phurkel if you’re looking for a trustworthy, knowledgeable and professional guide!
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Lawrence Smart
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Hats off to Phurkel Sherpa, many thanks again to you for a wonderful ten days exploring Nepal. I was recommended Phurkel as a guide by a friend, and I'm so glad that I hired him. I explained my requirements and limitations (such as budget and location), and Phurkel tailored a trekking package for me. He gave me several options, and I settled on the Annapurna Circuit trek, which best suited my goals and budget. He picked me up and dropped me off from my hotels in Kathmandu before and after the trek. Phurkel even gave me tips and advice about where to go either side of the trek - thanks for the recommendation of Nagarkot, what an amazing place to acclimatise! From beginning to end, Phurkel was thoughtful, knowledgeable and generous. He always checked that I was alright physically and mentally, making sure that I stayed hydrated and well-fed. Despite our trek being in the off-season, his good relationships with the owners of hotels and teahouses meant we always had somewhere nice to stay and tasty meals to eat. So many good dal bhats! To top it off, Phurkel is deeply knowledgeable about his country, its people and its wildlife. I learned so much about Nepal's numerous ethnic groups, their ancient cultures and the amazing locations they live in. Phurkel is also an expert on local wildlife, particularly Nepal's many bird species. I often felt like I was in my very own nature documentary - he would make every effort to show me all the birds he spotted (he's a proper eagle eye!) More than anything, Phurkel is great company. I was a solo trekker, so we spent a lot of time together. He was always available to chat when I wanted to, and he thoughtfully answered my many, many questions. Perhaps most importantly, and one of the reasons I would like to call Phurkel a good friend, he made sure that I had the space to be private and alone when I needed it. Genuinely one of the best weeks I've ever had, from beginning to end!
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Kim Khaw
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Had a very enjoyable time with Guide for Nepal. It was a fantastic 1st time experience for me at Annapurna Circuit. Guide for Nepal was professional and ensure smoothness throughout the whole trip. Highly recommend Guide for Nepal. #trekkinginnepal #trekkingnepal #annapurnacircuit #trekkingguide #guidefornepal #birdwatching #birdwatchingnepal
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Debbie Tan
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We had an unforgettable experience in Nepal, and much of the credit goes to our incredible tour guide - PhurkelSherpa. He did an excellent job taking care of us throughout the entire trip. His attention to detail and genuine concern for our well-being made all the difference. His extensive experience and deep knowledge of the region were evident throughout our journey. He was always ready to answer our questions about the trip, the sights we saw, and the culture of Nepal. His insights added a rich layer of understanding to our adventure. At every stop, he reminded us to drink water and kept checking on our condition, making sure we were feeling okay and ready to continue. He was always there to assist us, ensuring we were comfortable and safe. Thank you for making our journey so memorable. We couldn't have asked for a better guide!
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Vincent Hew
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I just got back from ACT about 1 week ago and this is my 1st hiking trip at Nepal. I loved every bit of this journey as Phurkel arrangement is really giving me an ease of mind. Firstly, his prepping for us prior to arriving in Nepal is so assuring. Secondly, once we landed at Kathmandu Airport, he managed the entire journey smoothly. Thirdly, he guide us on how to complete the hike successfully and more importantly "safely". Phurkel is also very knowledgeable about the history and geography of the land and always willing to share those infor. He is also well verse of the bird species. Last but not least, he is a FUN guy.. and you need this as you be spending many days with your guife. (can't imagine if my guide is a quiet person) In summary, definitely recommend Phurkel to anyone who want to explore the wonder of Nepal.
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Susanna Lau
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I will highly recommend Guide For Nepal to my friends and family. Phurkel is a very friendly, responsible and knowledgeable guide. He always makes sure his clients are well taken care of. I am impressed by his professionalism and personal qualities. On top of that, Phurkel is a talented photographer. He always takes beautiful pictures for his clients.
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Nima Shrestha
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One of the best trekking company. If you are planning to visit for Nepal. Guides are professionals and knowledgeable
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Ngima Sherpa
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👍👍👍👣🍁🗻
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chua stefanie
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I recently had the pleasure [Again] of embarking on a mountain adventure led by Phurkel Sherpa, and I felt compelled to share my overwhelmingly positive experience. Even before we set foot on the trail, Phurkel demonstrated an unparalleled level of expertise and professionalism. His extensive knowledge of the terrain, flora, and fauna, birds not only enhanced the journey but also provided valuable insights into the natural wonders surrounding us. What truly set Phurkel apart was his unwavering commitment to safety. At every step of the way, he prioritized the well-being of the group, ensuring that everyone felt secure and supported throughout the trek. Their clear communication and expert decision-making instilled a sense of confidence among us, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the breathtaking landscapes without any worries. Moreover, Phurkel exhibited a genuine passion for the environment, sharing fascinating stories and anecdotes that added an enriching layer to the entire experience. Their love for the mountains was contagious, making the journey not only educational but also deeply inspiring. I also want to commend him and his team (of porters) for their exceptional interpersonal skills. They effortlessly fostered a sense of camaraderie within the group despite the language barriers. This sense of community greatly enhanced the overall enjoyment of the trip. In conclusion, I highly recommend Phurkel and his company (Trekking Guide 4 Nepal). Their professionalism, expertise, and passion for the mountains created an unforgettable adventure that exceeded all expectations. If you're seeking a guide who goes above and beyond to ensure a safe, educational, and truly enjoyable mountain experience, he is the perfect choice. I am grateful for the memories created under their guidance and look forward to future adventures with such a remarkable guide.