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Phoksumdo Lake, Dolpo region, Nepal - Into Dolpo: Phoksundo Lake Horse Trek, Nepal
Phoksumdo Lake, Dolpo region, Nepal
A shepherd and his herd in Dolpo - Into Dolpo: Phoksundo Lake Horse Trek, Nepal
A shepherd and his herd in Dolpo
Stupa in Nankhang Valley - Into Dolpo: Phoksundo Lake Horse Trek, Nepal
Stupa in Nankhang Valley
Our highly trained team will add another level of comfort to your adventure in Nepal - Into Dolpo: Phoksundo Lake Horse Trek, Nepal
Our highly trained team will add another level of comfort to your adventure in Nepal  | Lachlan Gardiner
Remote camping at it's best in Upper Dolpo - Into Dolpo: Phoksundo Lake Horse Trek, Nepal
Remote camping at it's best in Upper Dolpo  | Howard Dengate
Visit Bodhinath Stupa on our sightseeing tour of Kathmandu - Into Dolpo: Phoksundo Lake Horse Trek, Nepal
Visit Bodhinath Stupa on our sightseeing tour of Kathmandu  | Lachlan Gardiner
Phoksundo Lake in Upper Dolpo - Into Dolpo: Phoksundo Lake Horse Trek, Nepal
Phoksundo Lake in Upper Dolpo  | Bill Quinlan
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Into Dolpo: Phoksundo Lake Horse Trek

Ride into remote Upper Dolpo, crossing high passes to Phoksundo Lake on horseback

Nepal

16 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: NHT
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 16 Days
Activities
  • 8 days Horse Trekking
Style
  • Classic Adventures  
Accommodation
  • 5 nights Hotel or Lodge
  • 10 nights Wilderness Camping
Meals

Valued at USD$550

  • 12 Dinners
  • 13 Lunches
  • 15 Breakfasts
Internal Flights

Valued at USD$765

Difficulty Grading  
5 / 10

Moderate

Trip highlights

  • Ride deep into the remote Dolpo region, one of Nepal’s most untouched Himalayan landscapes
  • Reach the turquoise waters of sacred Phoksundo Lake beneath towering cliffs
  • Cross Kagmara La (5,115m) on horseback with expert local horse handlers
  • Experience Tibetan-influenced culture in Dolpo villages and ancient monasteries
  • Camp beneath star-filled skies in alpine valleys far beyond standard trekking routes
  • Journey supported by experienced Nepali guides and horsemen with intimate regional knowledge

Overview

This rare horse trek journeys deep into Nepal’s remote Dolpo region, following ancient trade and pilgrimage routes far beyond standard trekking trails. Riding through forested gorges, alpine valleys and high mountain passes, you’ll reach the turquoise waters of sacred Phoksundo Lake and cross the formidable Kagmara La at 5,115m. Along the way, you’ll experience the Tibetan-influenced culture of Dolpo villages, monasteries and Bon communities that remain largely unchanged. Fully supported by experienced Nepali guides and horse handlers, this expedition blends cultural immersion, dramatic Himalayan scenery and true wilderness travel.

Itinerary

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Upon arrival at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport, you are met by a World Expeditions representative and transferred to your hotel in the heart of the city. The afternoon is free to relax after your journey or explore the nearby streets of Thamel. In the late afternoon, you meet your guide and fellow travellers for a detailed pre-trip briefing, where you receive your trek equipment and an overview of the journey ahead. In the evening, you gather for a welcome dinner, providing an opportunity to connect with your group before the adventure begins. Accommodation: Radisson Hotel, Kathmandu

Meals: Nil

This morning, you take a one-hour flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, a trading town on the Terai plains near the Indian border. During the flight, you may enjoy views of forests, farmland and distant Himalayan peaks in clear conditions. On arrival, you transfer to your hotel and have time to settle in. Nepalgunj provides an introduction to the cultural and geographic diversity of western Nepal and is the gateway to the Dolpo region. Accommodation: Hotel, Nepalgunj

Meals: B,L,D

This morning, you take an early flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal, flying over deep valleys and rugged Himalayan terrain. On arrival, you meet your local crew and begin a scenic drive of approximately 1.5 hours to Rupghat. The route follows river valleys into the Dolpo region, offering your first close views of this remote landscape. At Rupghat, you settle into your first wilderness camp beside the river as your trekking journey begins. Accommodation: Wilderness Camp, Rupghat

Meals: B,L,D

Today your journey begins on horseback, riding north along the Suligad River through pine forests and narrow gorges. Along the way, you pass the entrance to Shey Phoksundo National Park where permits are checked before continuing deeper into the valley. The route includes sections where you dismount and walk to support the horses on steeper terrain. By late afternoon, you reach the settlement of Chekpa and establish camp for the night. Accommodation: Wilderness Camp, Chekpa

Meals: B,L,D

Today you continue ascending along the Suligad River, following a trail that passes through remote settlements and crosses suspension bridges. The route climbs steadily through forests of blue pine and cedar as you move deeper into alpine terrain. At times, you dismount and walk along narrower ascending sections of trail. By late afternoon, you arrive at Boring and establish camp for the night. Accommodation: Wilderness Camp, Boring

Meals: B,L,D

Today you ride beyond the river gorge, following the Suligad River towards its upper valley and the approach to Phoksundo Lake. The route passes through small settlements before climbing steadily towards Ringmo, with sections completed on foot along narrower, steeper trails. As you gain elevation, the landscape opens and you reach the alpine setting surrounding the lake. By late afternoon, you arrive at Ringmo and camp near the shores of Phoksundo Lake. Accommodation: Wilderness Camp, Ringmo

Meals: B,L,D

Today is a scheduled acclimatisation day at Phoksundo Lake, allowing time to rest and adjust to the altitude. You may choose to relax at camp or explore the surrounding area on foot, including walks along the lakeshore. There is also the option to visit a nearby monastery, offering insight into local spiritual traditions. This day provides an opportunity to take in the alpine setting before continuing further into Dolpo. Accommodation: Wilderness Camp, Ringmo

Meals: B,L,D

Today you depart Phoksundo Lake and retrace your route along the trail toward Sumduwa, descending on sections of narrow, exposed terrain. At times, you dismount and walk to manage steeper and more technical sections safely. From Sumduwa, you head west into the Pungmo Valley, following a new route into a different part of Dolpo. By late afternoon, you arrive at Pungmo Kharka and establish camp beside the river. Accommodation: Wilderness Camp, Pungmo Kharka

Meals: B,L,D

Today you ride from Pungmo into higher alpine terrain, gradually ascending toward the base of the Kagmara Pass. The trail follows the Lasha valley, passing through sections of pine and juniper forest as well as open grazing areas. As you gain elevation, the landscape becomes more exposed and the air noticeably thinner. By late afternoon, you arrive at Kagmara High Camp and prepare for the pass crossing the following day. Accommodation: Wilderness Camp, Kagmara High Camp

Meals: B,L,D

Today you cross Kagmara La, the highest point of the journey, ascending from high camp on a rugged alpine trail. As you gain elevation, the terrain becomes more exposed and sections may be completed on foot to manage conditions safely. After reaching the pass, you begin a long descent toward Kagmara Phedi, following a narrow trail that gradually opens into the valley below. Much of the descent is completed on foot on steeper sections before arriving at camp. Accommodation: Wilderness Camp, Kagmara Phedi

Meals: B,L,D

Today you descend from Kagmara Phedi into lower elevations, following a trail that gradually leaves the high alpine zone. The route passes through open meadows before transitioning into forested terrain as you continue down the valley. Due to narrow and exposed sections, you alternate between riding and walking every 20–30 minutes to ensure safety. By late afternoon, you arrive at Toijum and establish camp near the river. Accommodation: Wilderness Camp, Toijum

Meals: B,L,D

Today you continue descending from Toijum, following a trail through increasingly forested terrain and fertile valleys. The route trends downhill, with warmer temperatures and changing vegetation as you move into lower elevations. Along the way, you pass through rural settlements that reflect the cultural landscape of this region of Dolpo. By late afternoon, you arrive at Hurikot and establish camp in the village. Accommodation: Wilderness Camp, Hurikot

Meals: B,L,D

This morning you farewell your horse crew before departing by vehicle for Jumla, the administrative centre of the Karnali region. The drive follows remote mountain roads through valleys, terraced hillsides and rural settlements. Along the way, you experience a final transition through the landscapes of western Nepal. On arrival in Jumla, you settle in for your final night. Accommodation: Lodge or Private Camp, Jumla

Meals: B,L,D

This morning you fly from Jumla to Nepalgunj, descending from the mountains to the lowland Terai. On arrival, you connect with your onward flight to Kathmandu. After landing, you are transferred to your hotel in the city. The remainder of the day is free to relax or explore nearby areas. Accommodation: Radisson Hotel, Kathmandu

Meals: B,L

Today is a free day to explore Kathmandu at your own pace. You may choose to visit cultural and historical sites, explore local markets, or spend time relaxing after your journey. Optional sightseeing opportunities are available throughout the city. In the evening, you come together for a farewell dinner to mark the end of your journey. Accommodation: Radisson Hotel, Kathmandu

Meals: B

After breakfast, your journey comes to an end in Kathmandu. You are transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward travel. The morning allows time to prepare for departure and reflect on your journey. Trip arrangements conclude after your airport transfer.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

2 scheduled departures between 28 Sep 2027 and 2 Oct 2028.

  • Departs 28 Sep 2027 – ends 13 Oct 2027 (16 days)
  • Departs 2 Oct 2028 – ends 17 Oct 2028 (16 days)
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • 15 breakfasts, 12 lunches and 11 dinners
  • 4 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj
  • Use of a World Expeditions trek pack including a quality sleeping bag, sleeping bag liner, and down or fibre-fill jacket (valued at US$500)
  • 10 nights fully supported camping
  • Internal flights Kathmandu/Nepalgunj/Juphal and Jumla/Nepalgunj/Kathmandu
  • Expert bilingual local guide
  • Accompanied by camp crew, and skilled horse handlers
  • Camping gear
  • Horse rental and handler fees
  • Airport transfers (day 1 and 16 only)
  • Private transportation in quality vehicles
  • Sightseeing and entry fees as listed in itinerary
  • National Park fees
  • Medical kit

Not included

  • Aerated and alcoholic drinks
  • Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, etc.
  • Tips and gratuities
  • International airfares & departure taxes
  • Visa costs
  • Travel Insurance (compulsory)
Horse Trekking Insights | Webinar

Responsible Travel

Regenerative Travel ProjectsPorter Welfare10 Pieces Initiative
Breathtaking views as we trek down towards Thame | Monika Molenda
Restoring Learning in Thame Project
 
Restoring access to digital education through the installation of a computer lab and smart classroom technology, helping rebuild learning opportunities for students affected by climate-related disasters.
 
In Nepal's Solukhumbu region, the remote mountain village of Thame is recovering from a devastating Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) that destroyed homes, infrastructure, and critical community services — including the local school and its computer lab. With students displaced and relocated to temporary learning facilities, access to quality education has been severely disrupted, particularly in digital learning.
 
The Rebuilding Digital Education in Thame project aims to address this gap by equipping the newly relocated Thame Basic School with a computer lab, smart boards, and essential digital infrastructure. This will enable students and teachers to access modern, technology-enabled education in one of the most remote regions in the world.
 
With support from the World Expeditions Foundation, this project will fund the installation of computers, smart boards, printers, and classroom infrastructure to support both students and teachers. The outcome? Improved digital literacy, more engaging and interactive teaching, and equitable access to education for a community rebuilding after disaster.
 
The project is led by Himalayan Trust Nepal, a long-standing organisation working closely with local communities, schools, and government partners to deliver sustainable education and development outcomes across the Khumbu region.
 
Support our work
Our Commitment to Porters in Nepal
 
Porters are central to every trek we run in Nepal, and we are committed to their safety, wellbeing, and fair treatment.
 
We ensure fair pay, enforce strict load limits (max 30kg), and provide proper clothing, equipment, meals, and safe accommodation.
 
Porters have equal access to medical care, insurance, and emergency support as our travellers.
 
You can trek knowing your journey supports responsible and ethical practices.
Help us keep the places that inspire us clean by taking part in our 10 Pieces litter initiative | Lachlan Gardiner
Cleaning Up Wilderness Trails
 
Our 10 Pieces initiative is a simple, voluntary way to give back while you trek.
 
Travellers are encouraged to collect 10 pieces of litter each day along the trail, helping protect these fragile environments.
 
You'll find more details in your client portal once you book, and your tour leader will introduce the initiative at your first group meeting in Kathmandu.

Extra trip info

FAQsWhy Book With Us
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The best time to travel is June to September, when high passes are open and conditions are most stable.

Yes. This trek is suited to riders with some prior experience who are comfortable spending several hours a day on horseback.

This trek reaches extreme altitude, including Kagmara La at 5,115m, with a carefully paced acclimatisation program.

Terrain varies from forested trails and river valleys to high alpine passes, with riding and short walking sections.

Fully supported wilderness camps with spacious tents, camp staff and hot meals in remote locations.

Extremely remote. Expect limited infrastructure and a true expedition-style experience far from crowds or modern facilities.

  • One of the very few guided horse treks operating in the remote Upper Dolpo region
  • Decades of operational experience in Nepal, backed by trusted local teams
  • Carefully matched horses, experienced handlers and pre-scouted campsites throughout
  • Strong acclimatisation design for safe travel at very high altitude
  • Our travel style follows sustainable practices that support local communities and protect fragile Himalayan environments

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