11 Trekking Trails in the Himalayas Every Trekker Should Try

8. Phoksundo Lake / Shey Phoksundo National Park (Upper Dolpa, Nepal)

Quick facts: Difficulty—moderate to challenging due to remoteness; Duration—10–14+ days; Best season—May–Oct (shorter daylight and weather windows in shoulder months); Permits—national park permits and often special permits for Upper Dolpa regions; Max altitude—Phoksundo lake ~3,700 meters; Start town—Juphal or nearby access points. Phoksundo is famous for turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs and a mix of Tibetan and Bon cultural influences. The trail can include long approach days and limited services, so logistics take more planning than typical teahouse routes. Practical tips: travel with an experienced operator familiar with Dolpa logistics, bring extra food and medical kit for remote travel, and ensure you have a contingency plan for transport delays. Allow flexible buffer days in your itinerary. Cultural & environmental note: Upper Dolpa’s fragile ecology and distinct culture deserve careful respect; avoid intrusive photography and make donations or purchases locally when appropriate to support conservation and livelihoods.