DudhKunda Lake Trek

Trip Duration 14
Max Altitude 4561M
Group Size 2-10
Best Time for Visit March to May, October to November

Trip Overview

Overview

The Dudhkunda Lake trek is a mesmerizing journey that takes trekkers to the sacred Dudhkunda Lake, nestled at an altitude of 4,610 meters (15,125 feet) in the Solu region of Nepal. This off-the-beaten-path trek also offers a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and spiritual significance. Starting from Jiri, the trek follows a scenic trail through terraced fields, dense forests, and picturesque Sherpa villages. The route also offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, including Everest, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga, among others. As trekkers ascend towards Dudhkunda Lake, the landscapes transform into rugged terrains, and the air becomes crisp and pure. The highlight of the trek is undoubtedly Dudhkunda Lake itself, which holds immense religious importance for both Hindus and Buddhists. The pristine lake is also believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva and attracts pilgrims who come to pay their respects and take a holy dip in its sacred waters. Surrounded by towering mountains and pristine natural beauty, Dudhkunda Lake also exudes a tranquil and spiritual ambiance that captivates all who visit. The trek offers opportunities for cultural immersion as trekkers pass through Sherpa villages and interact with the friendly locals. The region is rich in Sherpa traditions, and trekkers can witness their unique customs, visit monasteries, and engage in cultural exchanges. The warm hospitality of the locals adds to the charm of the trek, creating memorable encounters and fostering a deeper connection with the local way of life. In addition to the cultural and spiritual aspects, the Dudhkunda Lake trek showcases the diverse flora and fauna of the Solu region. Trekkers may encounter a variety of bird species, including the endangered Danfe (the national bird of Nepal), and might spot wildlife like musk deer and Himalayan tahr along the trail.

Conclusion and Summary

The Dudhkunda Lake trek is a unique and rewarding adventure that combines natural beauty, cultural exploration, and spiritual significance. It offers a sense of tranquility, a deeper connection with nature, and a chance to witness the religious devotion of the pilgrims who visit the sacred lake. The trek promises an unforgettable experience and memories that will last a lifetime.

 Trip Highlight

  • Pikey Peak, one of the best viewpoints in Nepal
  • Gain stunning views from Mt. Kanchenjunga to the Annapurnas
  • Visit ‘Dudh Kunda’ lake, sacred to both Buddhist and Hindu religions
  • Combine wilderness camping with nights in local tea houses
  • Experience true Sherpa hospitality in authentic villages en route
  • Learn about Himalayan Buddhism at the Thubten Choling and Chiwong monasteries
  • Scenic Flight from Phaplu to Kathmandu.
  • Explore World heritage UNESCO Sites of Kathmandu Valley
  • Explore flora and fauna, as well as a variety of wildlife
  • See migratory aquatic birds during the rainy season as well
  • Splendid Close up Mountain views from Lamajura La Pass (3532m).

Itinerary

Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and after clearing immigration and customs, you shall be welcomed by a representative of Friendship World Trek who shall transfer you to your respective hotel. After taking a rest for your jetlagged body, explore the immediate surroundings in the vibrant Thamel which hosts diverse shops, and hotels, and is a neighbor to some eminent historical buildings. Enjoy the authentic dinner in the evening and prepare for a sightseeing city tour tomorrow. Stay overnight in Kathmandu.

Today you shall enjoy a city tour in the medieval city of Kathmandu and explore the historical and ancient heritages of prominent value. In a guided tour that shall reflect the rich diversity of this nation, you shall pay a visit to the Buddhist holy places of Swayambhunath (also known as the Monkey Temple) and Boudhanath Stupas which are known for their religious importance, ancient monasteries, and unique cultural ensembles within the premises. Next on the list is the Hindu holy place of Pashupatinath Temple located at the bank of the holy Bagmati River which is one of the most revered pilgrimages all over the world. We shall also explore the rich heritage of Patan Durbar Square, a complex with the ancient royal palace, unique Krishna Temple, museum, resting places, and intricate carvings on the stones and wooden structures on the premises. After this exploration, we shall have an interaction with the trekking guide and get ourselves clarified on the issues related to the trekking. Stay overnight in Kathmandu.

Our trek commences today as we take a drive to Shivalaya. After a succulent breakfast at the hotel, you will be accompanied by our guide. Our vehicle maneuvers through the busy and noisy streets of Kathmandu, past the Newar-dominated towns of Banepa and Bhaktapur. The driving route follows the Bhote Koshi River all the way up to a Tamang village. From here, we drive alongside the Tama Koshi River until we finally arrive at Jiri. Owing to its splendid natural beauty, Jiri is often given the nomenclature of “Switzerland of Nepal” and is gradually becoming the start-off point for most of the treks in the Everest region. From Jiri, we head onward to Shivalaya which is our last destination of the day. The residents here comprise the ethnic mix of Gurungs, Sherpas, Brahmins, Magars, etc. Stay overnight at Shivalaya.

Today we shall wake up early as we have to start hiking from today onwards. Our route today passes through the Shivalaya Police Checkpoint. The tail to Bhandar is marginally steep, and most part of it is embellished with rhododendron clusters. Surmounting the climbs and simultaneously enjoying the rhododendrons, we arrive at Deurali (2,387m) which offers a splendid view of Pike Peak. The local inhabitants of Deurali are mainly Sherpas and Tamangs. Our trail now goes down until we arrive at the settlement of Bhandar. Stay overnight at Bhandar.

From Bhandar, we descend on a downhill route through dense forests, cross a few streams, and then pass by the small settlements of Dokharpa and Baranda. From here, the route climbs through the forests and winds down to the Surma River. We continue trailing through the Likhu River valley. After about 3 hours of walking, we arrive at the village of Kinja village (1,624m), where we halt for lunch. This village happens to be the business hub for Ramechap and Solukhumbu districts. Our trek now resumes along an uphill route, until we eventually arrive at the settlement of Sete. Stay overnight at Sete.

We grab our breakfast and then resume our footy mission, walking up through the jungle. Most part of this walk is through the forest. We arrive at Lamjura Danda and halt for lunch. We have a pass ahead, so after some good energizing lunch, we begin to trudge up the steep route until we get to the top of the Lamjura La Pass (3,532m). From atop, enjoy the splendid views of the peaks like Gauri Shankar, Dudh Kunda, Mera Peak, etc. including the flowery vista of the flashy rhododendrons. After this scenic retreat, we descend from the pass to the Sherpa and Newar-dominated village of Junbesi. Stay overnight at Junbesi.

We shall begin the trek with breakfast from the settlement at Junbesi and start our beautiful section of this trek to Thuptenchholing Gumba. The trek today provides you with an opportunity to observe Sherpa culture and visit monasteries. Junbesi is one of the most beautiful Sherpa villages in the lower Solukhumbu region. It is rich in astonishing landscapes, cultural wealth, and hospitable Sherpa people. In addition to this, you will also experience lush green wilderness and a beautiful landscape. Stay overnight at Thuptenchholing Gumba.

In the trek today we trek along the winding trail through the pine and rhododendron forests, suspension bridges, culturally rich Sherpa villages, and the marvelous views of the mountains all along the trail to Yak Kharka. You walk through alpine forests. You get to experience lush green wilderness amidst beautiful landscapes with close-up views of silver peak mountains. Stay overnight at Yak Kharka.

Today you will see mountain glaciers, Lake Dudh Kunda, and the mountains closely. If you visit during August you can be part of a fair at the Janai Purnima ceremony which is one of the remarkable festivals of Nepal. Bird watchers will also see migratory aquatic birds during the rainy season. Stay overnight at Dudh Kunda.

We get going along the steep route to the Dudh Kunda Base Camp. On reaching the base camp, we pay a visit to Dudh Kunda Lake, which literally means the milk pond. The lake is perched right at the bottom of Numbur Himal, locally known as Shorong Yul Lha, which in the local dialect means the “custodian of Solu Lake”. Hence, both, the mountains as well as the lake have a great religious significance. Huge numbers of Hindu devotees visit the lake to take a holy dip every year. From the base camp, we can relish the views of Dudh Kunda Peak, Numbur I & II, as well as Mera Peak. We then trek back to Saharsbeni. Today’s journey has been a combination of trek and pilgrimage. Stay overnight at Saharsbeni.

On our trekking trail today we shall pass through Kaku and Basa to reach Taksindu where you are able to see some breathtaking panoramic views of mountain peaks, sparkling waterfalls, and tranquil lakes that will entice you to stop. As you continue on, you’ll pass through dense forests of rhododendron, the national flower of Nepal, which are in bloom from March to May. Also in the fall (September to December) when the weather is temperate and the skies are clear you can see these wildflowers in full bloom. Views of flora and fauna, as well as a variety of wildlife, will catch your attention but not slow you down. Stay overnight at Taksindu.

We shall wake up early in the morning with the view of the majestic sunrise glaring onto the lands below. The hike will take about seven hours today as we need to reach Phaplu, where you shall get a flight back to Kathmandu. So today you walk through mixed alpine forests, experience wildlife, and bird watching, and pass through different Sherpa settlements. You also encounter a lot of wildlife and vegetation in this particular region. Upon arrival at Phaplu, if you want you can enjoy some cultural shows which are generally performed on request here. Rest and stay overnight at Phaplu.

We leave early in the morning after breakfast for the flight back to Kathmandu. This scenic flight is as enchanting as it was for the first time we witnessed. The views of hills, green valleys, and picturesque mountains are always tempting for the viewers. After arrival at Kathmandu Airport, you shall be transferred to the hotel of your stay in Thamel by our representative. Explore the streets of Thamel, the buzzing streets and alley markets in the nearby places of Ason, the Royal courtyard and palace in the bit far away Basantapur Durbar Square, and others. You may also do some souvenir shopping in the surrounding areas. In the evening you shall be greeted with a farewell dinner where you can savor the authentic Nepali cuisine.

Our amazing and wonderful Dudh Kunda Trek has come to an end. Today a representative of Friendship World Trek shall escort you to the Tribhuvan International Airport for the flight to the onward destination at least three hours prior to the flight. We would like to express our gratitude for joining our trekking team for this wonderful and exciting trekking expedition and hope that we shall be welcoming you to other adventurous activities in this beautiful Himalayan nation. We hope that the trekking experience on this ‘less traveled’ path created a lifelong memory for the trekkers and you are tempted to return on subsequent visits to this beautiful Himalayan nation.

Departures & Availability

The set departure dates listed are specially quoted and specified for group joining option. Let us know if the set departure dates are not suitable for you- another dates which are suitable for you can certainly be added by us.

Check Available Dates
Start Date Price Availability

All trip prices are per person based on double occupancy, are subject to change without notice and do not include airfare. All prices and fares are quoted in U.S. dollars.

Price include

  • Airport pick up and drop
  • 3 nights Hotel in Kathmandu (Hotel Green Horizon or similar standard)
  • All accommodation during the trek in the best hotels/tea-houses in the area (differing according to the price you wish to spend)
    • Sanitation: The accommodation we provide will be neat and clean with warm-hospitality and quality services.
    • Single Accommodation: You won’t have to share your accommodation with anyone else so that your privacy is protected.
  • All foods during the trek: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner; any items on the menu as much as you wish to consume.
    • We provide hygienic and safe meals to re-energize you.
    • We request you not to waste your meals for it is difficult to transport food in the rural area.
    • You are not allowed to share your meals with anyone else from another group.
  • Domestic flight and all required land transportation
  • Professional and Highly experienced English-speaking Trekking Guide licensed by the Government. Including their lodging and food.
    • Local Staff: Our guides are locals of the region which ensures that you will surely get to explore a bit more during the trek than with any other guides.
    • Experienced: With the experience of more than a decade of working in this field, our trekking guides possess excellent knowledge of briefing during the trek as well as they are experts in handling all kinds of critical situations that might occur during the trek.
    • Insurance: Nepal Mountain Trekkers have an insurance policy for all our trekking staff.
  • Porters (1 porter for 2 trekkers with a max load of 25 KG). Including their lodging and food.
    • Local Staff: The porters we hire belong to the same region where we trek in order to provide employment opportunities to the locals as well as to make you explore every prospect of the region.
  • Four seasonal sleeping bags, down jacket, Nepal Mountain Trekkers duffer bag, t-shirt, and trekking map (Note: down jacket and sleeping bag are to be returned after trip completion)
  • TIMS Card and Gaurishankar National Parks entrance fees.
  • Rescue arrangement service
  • A comprehensive medical kit
  • 13% VAT and 10% service
  • Farewell dinner

Price Excludes

  • Nepal Entry Visa fee (Visa Information)
  • International airfare and excess baggage charges
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc)
  • Travel Insurance/Rescue Operation Cost
  • Tips for guides and porters

Gears And Equipment

Trip Information

DudhKunda Lake Trek

DudhKunda Lake Trek is one of Nepal’s newest and most exciting trekking routes. The trekking route passes through various traditional settlements in the Solukhumbu district. At 4,600 meters above sea level, it is nestled in the lap of Numbur Himal 6,959m. The DudhKunda Trekking will provide stunning vistas of the eastern Himalayan Range, including the incredible Mt Everest view.

The trek to Dudhkunda Lake is a challenging yet rewarding experience, offering stunning views of Himalayan peaks, including Mount Everest. Dudh Kunda Lake, which means “milky lake” in Nepali, is located at the base of the Numbur Himal, also known as Shorong Yul Lha, or “Protector of Solu Region.”

Accomodation for Dudhkunda Trek

Nowadays, Teahouses are available along the route, providing basic accommodation and meals. These teahouses offer a chance for trekkers to rest, eat local cuisine, and interact with fellow trekkers. If you plan to stay a night at Dhudhkunda, there is no teahouse so you will have to carry food and tents. But the other place is available normal teahouse.

A peaceful adventure in the Himalayas.

The lovely lake of Dudh Kunda is significant to Buddhist and Hindu visitors since it is thought that taking a holy bath in this sacred lake will wash away all of your sins and grant. All of your wishes! The hike will not only provide you with spectacular views of the world’s highest mountains. But it will also enchant you with the mysterious reddish rhododendron forests. If you’re lucky, the exotic Mountain leopard, Thars, may also visit you, and Pheasants, among others. This trek is a peaceful adventure in the Himalayas.

Dudhkunda Lake Altitude

The DudhKunda hike is picturesque due to its Altitude of 4,600 meters. It’s a camping hike that follows the DudhKunda Cultural Trail’s route. A picturesque drive from Kathmandu to Patale Danda or a flight from Kathmandu to Phaplu precedes the DudhKunda Lake Trek.

Our hike, however, takes us through some of Sherpa’s most beautiful and unusual settlements. We will arrive at the Holy Lake DudhKunda after passing through stunning sights of nature and culture.  Lower Solukhumbu is a fantastic trekking destination.

The Best Time to Do DudhKunda Lake Trek

Due to its lower elevation, Dudh Kunda is particularly beautiful in the spring, fall, and winter, like most treks in Nepal. This walk should be avoided during the rainy season, as the terrain can get exceedingly damp.

What is the DudhKunda hike’s difficulty level?

The hike to DudhKunda is categorized as easy to moderately complex. The trail passes through the Everest region’s lowest reaches. It is a beautiful trek in the Himalayan region to reach the holy lake.

Trek Duration

Normally, the Dudhkunda Lake Teahouse Trek takes around 8 to 11 days, depending on your trek starting and ending points and your holiday time in Nepal.

Finally, we at Himalaya Darshan Treks strongly suggest the DudhKunda Lake Trek. Your journey to a hidden gem of the Lower Everest region. If you have sufficient time to complete your journey. Then, you can also continue your trip from Takshindu to Everest Base Camp if you have enough time.

EQUIPMENTS

 HEAD

  • Sun hat or scarf
  • Light balaclava or warm fleece hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Head Torch

 UPPER BODY

  • Cotton t-shirts or thermals
  • Fleece jacket
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Down jacket

 LOWER BODY

  • Lightweight cotton pants (long)
  • Waterproof pants

 FEET

  • Thin inner socks
  • Thick, warm wool hiking socks
  • Comfortable hiking boots

 HANDS

  • Gloves
  • Creams

 ACCESSORIES

  • Sleeping bag rated to -10°C +
  • Trekking bag (Rucksack)
  • Duffel bag
  • Large plastic bags (for keeping items dry inside trek bag)
  • Trekking poles (optional, recommended)
  • Water bottle or camel bag
  • Toiletries

Dudh Kunda Lake Map

Dudhkunda Lake Route Map

FAQS

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Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishing software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.

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