Phoksundo Lake – Dolpo Trek

After breakfast, transfer to the domestic airport for your scenic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj. Located in Nepal’s southwestern Terai region, Nepalgunj is the principal gateway for travel toward western Himalayan destinations, including Dolpo. After checking into your hotel, enjoy some time to rest and explore the local surroundings. Your guide will make final preparations for the following morning’s flight to Juphal. Because flights to the remote mountain airstrip can be affected by weather, an early start and flexible schedule are recommended.

Take an early morning flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal Airport, situated at approximately 2,475 m. After landing, meet the local staff and begin the journey toward Dunai, the administrative centre of Dolpo. Depending on the current road conditions, this section may be completed by a short jeep transfer or on foot. The journey follows the rugged Himalayan landscape toward the Bheri River valley. Arrive in Dunai, settle into your lodge and prepare for the trek deeper into Dolpo.

Published route descriptions place Juphal around 2,475 m and Dunai around 2,140–2,150 m, with approximately 3 hours of walking on the classic route.

After breakfast, begin trekking from Dunai toward Chhepka. The trail follows the river valley and gradually enters the spectacular landscapes of Shey Phoksundo National Park. You will pass through forests, small settlements, agricultural terraces and several suspension bridges. The route becomes increasingly remote as you move farther from Dunai. Enjoy views of the surrounding hills and listen to the sound of the river accompanying you along the trail. After approximately six to seven hours of walking, arrive at Chhepka and settle into your lodge.

The Dunai–Chhepka section is commonly listed at about 14–16 km, with Chhepka around 2,670–2,720 m.

Today the trail continues deeper into the Phoksundo Valley. Walk through beautiful pine, fir and mixed forests while following the Phoksundo River. The route includes several ascents and descents before gradually gaining altitude toward Jharana Hotel. Along the way, you can enjoy waterfalls, dramatic cliffs and increasingly rugged Himalayan scenery. The landscape changes noticeably as you approach the higher reaches of the valley. Arrive at Jharana Hotel, rest and enjoy the peaceful surroundings before continuing toward Phoksundo Lake the following day.

Published itineraries generally place Jharana Hotel around 3,100–3,170 m and estimate this stage at roughly 12–14 km.

Today brings you to the magnificent Phoksundo Lake. The trail climbs through birch and conifer forests before reaching the spectacular Phoksundo waterfall and the upper valley. As you continue, the landscape opens and you get your first dramatic views of the turquoise lake. Cross the river and follow the trail toward Ringmo, a traditional Himalayan settlement beside Phoksundo Lake. Ringmo is known for its distinctive stone houses, Buddhist and Bon cultural heritage and beautiful surroundings. Overnight in Ringmo Village.

The Jharana Hotel–Ringmo section is commonly given as approximately 5 km and around four hours, with Ringmo at about 3,640 m.

Spend the day exploring the spectacular surroundings of Ringmo and Phoksundo Lake. Walk along the lakeshore and visit viewpoints overlooking the deep turquoise waters and surrounding cliffs. You can also enjoy a peaceful nature walk through the surrounding landscape and observe the unique vegetation and wildlife of the region. This is an excellent opportunity to relax after the previous days of trekking while becoming familiar with the altitude. The day also provides time to experience the traditional architecture and atmosphere of Ringmo.

A published route description gives a Ringmo exploration walk of approximately 3 km and two hours.

After breakfast, visit Thasung Tsoling Gompa, an important spiritual site associated with the traditional religious heritage of the Phoksundo area. Take time to explore the monastery and appreciate the religious art, architecture and peaceful Himalayan surroundings. Afterwards, walk around Ringmo and the nearby lake area. The relaxed schedule allows you to enjoy the natural beauty and cultural character of Dolpo without rushing. Return to your lodge in Ringmo for another overnight stay beside the magnificent Phoksundo Lake.

The Ringmo area is noted for its Bon religious heritage and monastery sites.

Today is dedicated to exploring the traditional village of Ringmo and its surrounding landscape. Walk through the village to observe traditional stone houses, fields, mani walls and local life. You may also spend time beside Phoksundo Lake, enjoying the changing colors of the water and magnificent mountain scenery. Ringmo provides an excellent opportunity to experience the distinctive culture of Dolpo, where local traditions have developed in relative isolation. This relaxed day also provides additional acclimatization before continuing toward Pugmo.

After breakfast, leave Ringmo and continue toward the Tapriza School area. The trail passes through remote landscapes and traditional settlements associated with the Phoksumdo region. Tapriza School has an important role in providing education while incorporating local language, culture and traditions into the educational environment. The school serves children from surrounding communities, including Pugmo and Ringmo. Spend time learning about the school and its role in the local community before continuing to your overnight accommodation.

Tapriza’s own documentation identifies the school as serving communities including Ringmo and Pugmo and describes its emphasis on local culture and education.

Continue your journey toward the remote and culturally fascinating Pugmo Village. The trail passes through rugged Himalayan terrain, traditional settlements and cultivated areas. As you approach Pugmo, you will experience a quieter side of Dolpo, where traditional lifestyles and cultural practices remain an important part of everyday life. Take time to observe the architecture and surroundings of the village and interact respectfully with local residents. Arrive in Pugmo and enjoy a traditional evening before your overnight stay.

*Distance and exact trail measurements for the Ringmo–Pugmo section should be verified with your local Dolpo guide before publishing.

Today is dedicated to exploring Pugmo and its cultural heritage. Visit Namgyal Lhakhang and Pumer Gompa, where you can learn more about the religious traditions of the local communities. Walk through the village and surrounding fields while observing traditional houses, prayer flags and the distinctive Himalayan landscape. This is an excellent opportunity to experience local culture at a slower pace and interact with villagers. Return to your accommodation in Pugmo for a peaceful evening and overnight stay.

After breakfast, leave Pugmo and begin the journey toward Sangta. The trail gradually takes you toward the lower valleys, passing through remote Himalayan terrain, forests and small settlements. Enjoy the changing landscape as you descend from the higher villages toward the lower Dolpo valley. After several hours of walking, arrive at Sangta Hotel or the designated overnight camp. Rest and prepare for the following day's return journey toward Juphal.

*The exact Pugmo–Sangta route and overnight elevation should be confirmed with your local Dolpo team. Published Dolpo routes use Sangta as a lower-altitude settlement on routes toward Juphal, but distances vary according to the exact trail used.

After breakfast, begin the final section of your Dolpo journey. Walk or drive toward the Suligad area and continue by jeep toward Juphal, depending on road and trail conditions. The route gradually leaves the remote trekking landscape and reconnects with the main road network. Upon reaching Juphal, check into your lodge and rest. This evening provides an opportunity to reflect on your journey through Phoksundo, Ringmo and Pugmo before your flight back to Nepalgunj the following morning.

*Driving times and road conditions can change considerably in Dolpo.

After breakfast, transfer to Juphal Airport for your scenic flight to Nepalgunj. Upon arrival in Nepalgunj, connect with your onward flight to Kathmandu. The journey concludes upon arrival in Kathmandu. Depending on your international flight schedule, you may continue directly to the airport for your onward departure or transfer to your hotel for an additional night. Your Phoksundo Lake–Dolpo Trek comes to an end with wonderful memories of turquoise waters, remote Himalayan villages, monasteries and the unique cultural landscape of Dolpo.

Today marks the end of your memorable Nepal adventure. After breakfast, you will have free time to relax, do some last-minute shopping, or explore the surroundings depending on your flight schedule. Our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu in time for your international flight. Bid farewell to Nepal with wonderful memories of the Himalayas, Phoksundo Lake, Dolpo, and the unique landscapes and cultures experienced during your journey.