Introduction:
The Shey Phoksundo Trek is a mesmerizing journey into the remote and pristine Dolpo region of Nepal, renowned for its stunning landscapes, vibrant Tibetan culture, and the breathtaking Shey Phoksundo Lake. This trek offers an unparalleled adventure through rugged terrain, traditional villages, and serene natural beauty. The trek takes you to the turquoise waters of Shey Phoksundo Lake, the deepest lake in Nepal, set against the backdrop of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. It’s a perfect choice for trekkers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.
Overview:
- Duration: 12 days (including arrival and departure)
- Max Elevation: 4,110 meters (13,484 feet) at Kang La Pass (optional)
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Best Season: March to May, September to November
- Start/End Point: Kathmandu/Nepalgunj/Juphal
Detailed Itinerary:
Day 1: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj
- Elevation: 150 meters (492 feet)
- Duration: 1-hour flight
- Activities: Explore Nepalgunj, visit local markets, and temples.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Nepalgunj.
- Overnight: Nepalgunj.
Day 2: Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal and Trek to Dunai
- Starting Elevation: 2,475 meters (8,120 feet) (Juphal)
- Ending Elevation: 2,140 meters (7,021 feet) (Dunai)
- Duration: 45-minute flight and 3-hour trek
- Route: Scenic flight to Juphal, trek downhill through terraced fields and villages along the Bheri River to Dunai.
- Accommodation: Teahouse in Dunai.
- Overnight: Dunai.
Day 3: Dunai to Chhepka
- Starting Elevation: 2,140 meters (7,021 feet)
- Ending Elevation: 2,838 meters (9,311 feet)
- Duration: 6-7 hours
- Route: Follow the trail along the Bheri and Suli Gad rivers, pass through forests of pine, oak, and bamboo, cross suspension bridges.
- Accommodation: Teahouse in Chhepka.
- Overnight: Chhepka.
Day 4: Chhepka to Jharana Hotel
- Starting Elevation: 2,838 meters (9,311 feet)
- Ending Elevation: 3,110 meters (10,203 feet)
- Duration: 6-7 hours
- Route: Trek through dense forests, follow the Phoksundo River, pass through small villages, and see beautiful waterfalls.
- Accommodation: Teahouse at Jharana Hotel.
- Overnight: Jharana Hotel.
Day 5: Jharana Hotel to Shey Phoksundo Lake
- Starting Elevation: 3,110 meters (10,203 feet)
- Ending Elevation: 3,611 meters (11,847 feet)
- Duration: 5-6 hours
- Route: Steep climb to a ridge offering the first view of the stunning Shey Phoksundo Lake, descend to the lake.
- Accommodation: Teahouse at Shey Phoksundo Lake.
- Overnight: Shey Phoksundo Lake.
Day 6: Acclimatization Day at Shey Phoksundo Lake
- Elevation: 3,611 meters (11,847 feet)
- Activities: Explore the turquoise lake, visit the nearby Ringmo Village, and the ancient Bon Monastery. Optional short hikes around the lake.
- Accommodation: Teahouse at Shey Phoksundo Lake.
- Overnight: Shey Phoksundo Lake.
Day 7: Shey Phoksundo Lake to Chunuwar
- Starting Elevation: 3,611 meters (11,847 feet)
- Ending Elevation: 3,110 meters (10,203 feet)
- Duration: 5-6 hours
- Route: Retrace steps back towards Chunuwar, enjoy the picturesque landscape and possibly encounter wildlife.
- Accommodation: Teahouse in Chunuwar.
- Overnight: Chunuwar.
Day 8: Chunuwar to Sangta
- Starting Elevation: 3,110 meters (10,203 feet)
- Ending Elevation: 2,490 meters (8,169 feet)
- Duration: 6-7 hours
- Route: Trek through dense forests, passing traditional villages, and cross several streams and rivers.
- Accommodation: Teahouse in Sangta.
- Overnight: Sangta.
Day 9: Sangta to Juphal
- Starting Elevation: 2,490 meters (8,169 feet)
- Ending Elevation: 2,475 meters (8,120 feet)
- Duration: 6-7 hours
- Route: Continue trekking back towards Juphal, passing through Dunai, and enjoying the changing landscape.
- Accommodation: Teahouse in Juphal.
- Overnight: Juphal.
Day 10: Fly from Juphal to Nepalgunj and then to Kathmandu
- Starting Elevation: 2,475 meters (8,120 feet) (Juphal)
- Ending Elevation: 150 meters (492 feet) (Nepalgunj)
- Final Elevation: 1,400 meters (4,593 feet) (Kathmandu)
- Duration: 45-minute flight from Juphal to Nepalgunj, 1-hour flight from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu
- Activities: Fly back to Kathmandu, rest and relax.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu.
- Overnight: Kathmandu.
Additional Details:
- Permits: Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card are required.
- Accommodation: Teahouses and lodges along the trail.
- Meals: Traditional Nepali meals, with options for international cuisine available at larger teahouses.
- Guides/Porters: Hiring a guide and/or porter is recommended for safety and support.
Packing List:
- Clothing: Layers for warmth, waterproof jacket, trekking pants, gloves, hat, and sturdy trekking boots.
- Gear: Sleeping bag, trekking poles, headlamp, first aid kit, water purification tablets, and personal toiletries.
- Documents: Passport, travel insurance, permits, and extra passport-sized photos.
This itinerary provides a blend of cultural experiences, breathtaking natural beauty, and a moderate to challenging trekking adventure in the remote Dolpo region.
