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    Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek

    What to see & do

    About Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek - 11 days

    At a Glance

    • Destination
      Nepal
    • Durations
      11 days
    • Trip Difficulty
      Moderate
    • Accommodation
      Hotel/Lodge/Tea House
    • Meals
      All meals included during the trekking
    • Mx.altitude
      3612m.
    • Vehicle
      Flight/Tourist bus/Private vehicle
    • Max. People
      10

    Trip Highlights

    • Shey Phoksundo Lake, located in Nepal, is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and travelers seeking an unforgettable adventure.
    • As one of the deepest and most picturesque lakes in Nepal, Shey Phoksundo Lake promises a breathtaking sight and a chance to immerse in the natural beauty of the Dolpo region.
    • The Dolpo region is renowned for its unique cultures and traditions, and visiting the area is an opportunity to explore and learn about the local customs.
    • Monasteries like Tshowa Gompa offer a glimpse into the region's religious and spiritual heritage, and visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere and stunning architecture.
    • Shey Phoksundo National Park is a natural wonderland teeming with diverse flora and fauna, making it an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Don't miss the chance to savor the natural bounty and beauty of the park.

    Trip Overview

    Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek: Explore the Gem of Nature in Nepal's Trans-Himalayan Region

    Shey Phoksundo Lake, located in the Dolpa district of western Nepal, is a true gem of nature. Surrounded by greenery and reflecting the clouds, the deep blue and silent nature of this alpine freshwater oligotrophic lake is simply mesmerizing. At an elevation of 3611.5 meters, it is the deepest lake in Nepal, with a depth of 136.20 meters. The word "Phoksundo" is derived from the Tibetan language, where "Phok" means "expand," "Sung" means "three," and "Du" means "stone." Phoksundo, therefore, means a lake that has expanded on three sides and is surrounded by stones. According to a mythical story, the lake was formed when a demon carried a bowl of water in one hand and a bowl of oil in the other while being chased by a sacred monk. The demon dropped the bowl of water at the site, and the monk got trapped there.

    The Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek takes you to the deepest lake of Nepal, Phoksundo Lake, which is located in the Dolpo region. This region is considered one of the most remote areas of Nepal and is quickly becoming a desired destination for many due to its pristine natural environment and unique culture. The culture of this region is highly influenced by the neighboring Tibetan culture, and the area is also considered a sacred place for Buddhists and Bön religion followers.

    Major Attractions of the Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek

    Shey Phoksundo National Park: This is the largest national park in Nepal and the only national park located in the Trans-Himalayan region. The national park elevates from an altitude of 2,130 meters to 6,885 meters and covers a total area of 3,555 km2. The region is blessed with a diverse species of flora and fauna and has protected biodiversity. It is home to many endangered species, including the snow leopard, musk deer, grey wolf, blue sheep, Goral, Himalayan Thar, Himalayan black bear, great Tibetan sheep, and yellow-throated marten. Valuable bird species like wood snipe, white-throated tit, wood accentor, Tibetan partridge, crimson-eared rosefinch are also found in this national park.

    Cultural Diversity of the Dolpo Region

    The Dolpo region is rich in cultural ethnicity and is home to many ancient Gumbas and monasteries. The Shey Gompa, built in the 11th century, and the Thashung Gompa, built about 900 years ago, are major attractions of this region. The people living in this region follow the typical Tibetan lifestyle, and you can discover more about the Bön religion and its relation to Buddhism. You can experience what it is like to live with the monks of the high Himalayas and gain an in-depth understanding of Buddhism. As you proceed downward, you pass through many villages and experience cultural diversity. Beautiful hamlets like Rechi, Chunuwar, Shyanta, Dunai, Jhupal, etc., welcome you with a great smile. The warm gesture of the locals on the way garnishes your journey with more beauty.

    Best Time to Do Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek

    The trek is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) seasons. The weather is ideal during these times, and the trek is relatively easier than other treks in Nepal, making it suitable even for first-time trekkers.

    Alternative Packages of Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek

    If you want to explore the different remote areas of Nepal, then there are several other trekking packages available that are worth exploring.

    One popular trekking package is the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum Valley Trek, which takes you to the remote Tsum Valley and the majestic Manaslu Mountain, located in the Gorkha district of Nepal. This trek takes you through lush forests, rugged landscapes, and remote villages, where you can experience the unique culture and lifestyle of the local people.

    The Everest Base Camp Trek is another popular trekking package that takes you to the base camp of the highest mountain in the world, Mount Everest. This trek takes you through the Sagarmatha National Park, which is home to several rare species of flora and fauna, including the snow leopard, red panda, and the Himalayan black bear.

    Annapurna Base Camp Trek, is another trek surrounded by several towering peaks of the Annapurna range. This trek takes you through lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and traditional villages, where you can witness the unique culture and lifestyle of the local people.

    Itinerary

    Trip day to day detail itinerary

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    Cost Details

    Good to know before trip booking

    What's Included

    • Enjoy a hassle-free journey with our airport pick-up and drop-off services upon your arrival and departure.
    • Attend a pre-trek meeting with our experienced English-speaking guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
    • Relax in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Kathmandu for 3 nights before and after your trek.
    • Discover the vibrant city of Kathmandu with a full-day private city tour by a private vehicle.
    • Travel conveniently with our flight tickets from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and Juphal, and from Juphal back to Nepalgunj and Kathmandu.
    • Let us take care of all the necessary paperwork and permits, so you can focus on enjoying your trek.
    • Stay warm and cozy with our down-filled sleeping bag, walking poles, and duffel bag provided for your trek.
    • Our experienced and licensed guide, as well as local porters, will be there to assist you throughout your trek. For every two trekkers, there will be one porter to carry your luggage.
    • Enjoy delicious meals with our full-board package, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with your choice of food.
    • Keep your energy up with our complimentary snacks, such as energy bars and cookies. You can also enjoy fresh seasonal fruits after dinner.
    • Stay hydrated with unlimited chlorine-treated safe drinking water provided during your trek.
    • Monitor your health with our oximeter, which can check your pulse, heart rate, and oxygen saturation.
    • Rest comfortably in all mountain accommodations with soft and comfortable beds and a private room with shared toilet.
    • Be prepared for any emergencies with our comprehensive first-aid kit.
    • All government and local taxes are included in our package, so there are no hidden fees.
    • Take home a souvenir from us, such as a Himalaya Land Treks t-shirt and a trekking route map.
    • End your trek on a high note with a farewell dinner at one of the finest Nepalese restaurants, complete with traditional ethnic music and dance.

    What's Not Included

    • Nepal visa (USD 30 for 15 days and USD 50 for 30 days).
    • Your international flight to and from Nepal.
    • Meals in the city except for breakfast and other mentioned special dinner.
    • The cost incurred during the tour around the city.
    • Cost for additional trips.
    • Hot showers, Wi-Fi & battery charging on a trek.
    • Travel insurance (for helicopter evacuation if needed whilst on trekking).
    • Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone, internet/e-mail, etc.
    • Bar and beverage bills.
    • Tip for guide, porter, and drivers.

    Dates & Prices

    Book your trip with confidence

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    Useful Information

    Good to know before you travel

    Are you planning to embark on the breathtaking Shey Phoksundo Lake trekking adventure? Before you book your trip, here are some essential things you should know to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.

    Best time to go

    The best time to go for Shey Phoksundo Lake trekking is from April to October. The weather during these months is warm and dry, making it ideal for trekking. However, if you prefer to avoid crowds, consider going during the off-season from November to March.

    Trekking permit

    To trek in Shey Phoksundo National Park, you need to obtain a trekking permit. You can get this permit from the Himalaya Land Treks. 

    Physical fitness

    Shey Phoksundo Lake trekking is a challenging trek that requires a good level of physical fitness. You will be trekking at high altitudes, and the terrain can be steep and rocky. It is recommended that you do some physical training before embarking on this trek.

    Altitude sickness

    Altitude sickness is a common problem among trekkers in high altitude regions. To prevent altitude sickness, it is advisable to acclimatize properly. Take your time and allow your body to adjust to the altitude gradually. If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea, or dizziness, descend to a lower altitude immediately.

    Accommodation

    During the trek, you will be staying in tea houses or lodges along the trail. These accommodations are basic but comfortable, and they provide a warm bed and meals. However, it is advisable to bring a sleeping bag to ensure a comfortable sleep.

    Packing list

    Before embarking on the Shey Phoksundo Lake trekking adventure, it is crucial to pack appropriately. Some of the essential items to bring include a good quality trekking backpack, sturdy hiking boots, warm clothes, waterproof jacket, sleeping bag, sunscreen, and a first aid kit.

    Hiring a guide and porter

    A guide can help you navigate the trail and ensure your safety, while a porter can carry your luggage, leaving you free to enjoy the trek.

    In conclusion, Shey Phoksundo Lake trekking is a challenging yet rewarding adventure that requires proper planning and preparation. By keeping these essential tips in mind, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience. Happy trekking!

    FAQS

    frequently asked questions - Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek