Highlights of Dudh Kunda Trek 9 Days

Hiking to the holy Dudh Kunda Lake (4560m) at the base of Numbur Himal.
Enjoy a quiet and less busy hiking path in lower Solukhumbu.
Get magnificent views of Everest, Numbur and Karyolung as well as other peaks.
Trek through traditional Sherpa, Gurung, Magar and Tibetan villages.
See colourful rhododendron forests in spring and a variety of wildlife in the Himalayas.
Go to old monasteries and take the old pilgrimage routes.
Spend your time in warm, good homestays of the locals in the country to have an actual cultural experience.
Best suited to the trekkers who are moderate, spiritual and off the beaten path.

Trip Overview

The pristine landscapes of Nepal and the breathtaking sights of the Himalayas can be explored by trekking the Dudh Kunda Trek with Hill Sherpa Trek’s team. Immerse in the beauty of remote and peaceful hiking to the Dudh Kunda Trek in the lower Solukhumbu region. It is a Buddhist and Hindu believe that the glacial lake of Dudh Kunda has sacred powers of washing away your sins and curing infertility.

The Dudh Kunda Trek leads to the “Milk Lake” at the foot of Numbur Himal (6,958 m) in the remote SoluKhumbu region, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the eastern Himalayas, including the mighty Mount Everest. Dudh Kunda is the glacial lake that gives this hike its name. Along the hike discover the Sherpa, Gurung, Magar, Khaling Rai, and Tibetan influenced civilizations. Participate in cultural exchange at the monasteries, festivals, and local people.

With Hill Sherpa Trekking, receive the gift of a genuine Himalaya homestay along with the specialized trekking experience. Witness Alpine and forest wildlife such as the Himalayan Thar, black bear, yak, and snow leopard with bears, pheasants. Enjoy the landscapes as the Dudh Kunda trek passes through the alpine. There is also the extraordinary experience of a homestay and local tea houses.

The moderate and lower Dudh Kunda Lake route, also known as Shoring YUL LHA, the Guardian of Solu, also climbs in the direction of Dudh Kunda Lake, the destination of the trek. Beyond the sacred lake, Dudh Kunda Lake and at an elevation of 3,800 m, is Phaplu, Ringmo, a village with Tibetan influences, Junbesi, and Sarsar Beni. Spring is a wonderful time, as the valleys are steeped in the greens of the newly emerged vegetation and the rhododendrons are in bloom, a pink vegetation of contrast to the dark green hills.

The Dudh Kunda Despite the great responsibility and expertise gained over the years, Dudh Kunda Trek remained an authentic experience with the right and safe conditions. Hidden from the usual trails, the hike offers the tranquility and beauty of the Himalayas for a once in a lifetime experience in Nepal.

Dudh Kunda Trek 9 Days Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu

As you arrive in Kathmandu, one of Hill Sherpa Trekking’s representatives will greet you at the arrival gate and transfer you to your designated hotel. After checking into your new hotel, you will have the opportunity to either rest or walk to your hotel’s vicinity to appreciate the local Kathmandu lifestyle filled with temples, local marketplaces, and traditional Newari architecture. In the late afternoon, one of our trekking guides will meet you to give you a pre-trek briefing.

Max Altitude

1300 m

Meals

Excluded

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 02: Exploring Kathmandu and Preparing for the Trek

As you get ready for the expedition, you will have the whole day to enjoy Kathmandu’s fascinating cultural variety. While exploring and geo-caching along, don’t forget to stop at some of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, namely, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.

During the day, your guides will assist in checking gear so you have the necessary tools for the Dudh Kunda Trek, ensuring you have a safe and productive experience. This will also give additional time to rest and acclimatize yourself to the surrounding altitude and environment.

Max Altitude

1300 m

Activity

preparation/sightseeing

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Ringmo

After a short breakfast, you should proceed towards the Solu region. You should enjoy a scenic, terraced, and mountainous drive to Ringmo. After driving for some time and while you settle in the lower Everest region, you should enjoy and take in the new, rural, mountain world while you drive. Ringmo is a cozy Tibetan cultural village. You will lodge in for your first night in the foothills of the Himalayas.

Duration

9-10 hours

Max Altitude

2,750m

Activity

Driving

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 04: Trek from Ringmo to Sarsar Beni

Your first trek will begin with a steady ascent while on a picturesque, forested, trail of pine, fir, and rhododendron. You will get clearer views and thinner vegetation the higher you climb, while you traverse up through some yak pastures and Sherpa villages to Sarsar Beni, a high-altitude campsite on the trail. You will enjoy the night under the twinkling and vast sky of the Himalayas.

Duration

5 to 6 Hours

Max Altitude

3,800m

Activity

trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 05: Trek to Dudh Kunda (4,560m) and Back to Sarsar Beni

Trekkers with Dudh Kunda as their destination will have the most important and rewarding leg of the journey today. After a predawn commencement of the day’s trek, the trail makes an ascent in Dudh Kunda’s direction, Sarsar Beni originally started the trek from here.

Over the course of the morning’s alpine ascent, trekkers will be treated to the views of the most alabaster mountains within Numbur Himal and their surrounding peaks. Eventually, all trekkers will arrive at the lake, where they will be able to see the the lake’s calm and shimmering turquoise waters reflect the copied and massive, snow-covered peaks.

Dudh Kunda, or “Milk Lake” as it’s sometimes referred to, is a mountain lake with substantial cultural significance as a place of pilgrimage for both Hindu and Buddhist people. It is believed the lake contains the ability to bestow blessings as well as purify one’s sins. After descending and arriving at Sarsar Beni for the night, all trekkers will have had the opportunity to to take in the lake’s positive ambiance, as well as the lake’s spiritual culture.

Duration

6 to 7 Hours

Max Altitude

4560 m

Activity

hiking/Exploring

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 06: Descent from Sarsar Beni to Junbesi

Following your morning meal, you will begin your descent to the next village. The route will still follow the same direction, and the same winding trail will pass through grassy alpine meadows and areas of forest.

As you descend, you will notice an increase in greenery, as well as warmer and more comfortable temperatures. Junbesi is one of the most beautiful villages, seeing as though it is one of the Sherpa villages in the Solu region with ancient monasteries and traditional homes. The scenery is remarkable and the locals are hugely hospitable.

Duration

5 to 6 Hours

Max Altitude

2,700m

Activity

trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 07: Trek from Junbesi to Phaplu

Expect a pleasant day and an easy going walk through the forest and village of Phaplu. The same town and small region will serve as a local hub. The terraced farmlands with lovely scenery will make this walk one to remember and you’ll probably event pass sight seeing opportunities as you make your way to Phaplu. The beauty of Dudh Kunda will leave a lasting impression and you will enjoy a relaxing afternoon to celebrate your trek.

Duration

5 to 6 Hours

Max Altitude

2400 m

Activity

trekking

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 08: Drive from Phaplu to Kathmandu

This day marks the beginning of our land transit journey from Phaplu to Kathmandu. The road travels through terraced farmlands, dense forests, hillside villages, and wide river valleys. You will have a final experience of this part of rural Nepal.

Although the road can be bumpy, the changing landscape and the life of the locals will always be enjoyable. After 8 or 9 hours on the road, we will be in Kathmandu and do a transfer to your hotel. You can rest, refresh, and go to the city’s lively parts. It will be a good moment to remember your Dudh Kunda Trek, and to reflect on the rest of your journey.

Duration

8-9 hours

Max Altitude

1300 m

Activity

driving

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Day 09: Departure from Nepal

You depart in the morning. Depending on your flight schedule, Hill Sherpa Trekking will take you to the airport for your departure and for your long flight home. As you fly out, you will have memories of the Dudh Kunda Trek, and the hospitality of the Himalayan people will stay with you.

Max Altitude

1300 m

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Includes & Excludes

What is included?

Airport pick up and drop off by private car
Tourist standard hotel twin sharing room accommodation (2 N in Kathmandu with breakfast)
Kathmandu to Ringmo and Phaplu to Kathmandu by sharing a local jeep
Full board meal during the trek, breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Three times a cup of any kind of tea/coffee with meal
Hill Sherpa Trekking’s first aid kit by the guide
Water purification tablets for tap water
Nepal government tax and the company’s official charge
All necessary permit fees
Accommodation, local tea house, homestay
Provides daily fresh fruit after dinner
Government-licensed holder, speaking English, and experienced guide
One strong sherpa helper for carrying your baggage (1 porter for 2 clients)
All staff wages, food, drinks, accommodations, transportation, and insurance
Helicopter service will be covered by your travel insurance in the event of an emergency.
Down jackets, duffel bags, sleeping bags, and trekking poles are provided by Hill Sherpa Trekking but should be returned after the trek (if you need them).
An oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen level (AMS) (acute mountain sickness)
provides assistant guides (if groups are larger than 6 people).
Hill Sherpa Trekking provides trip certificates (after completing the trip).
Complementary sun block cap of Hill Sherpa Trekking

What is excluded?

International airfare tickets
The Nepal entry visa fee and visa will be obtained on arrival at the international airport in Kathmandu.
Additional accommodations, food, and drinks in Kathmandu (if staying an extra day)
Any kind of Additional like dessert, sweet items, chocolate, cake, extra tea/coffee, pie, pudding, mineral water, bar bills, or any extra personal expenses
During the trek, hot showers, mobile, camera, power bank, any battery charging, Wi-Fi Internet,
Kathmandu sightseeing, entrance fees
Your personal medical and travel insurance
Personal first aid kit
maximum baggage weight of more than 15 kg, including hand carry
Tips for guides and porter

Note:

We also operate private trips.

Trip Information of Dudh Kunda Trek 9 Days

Can a beginner join this trip?

Yes, the Dudh Kunda Trek has been designed perfectly to accommodate novice trekkers and individuals who possess a moderate degree of fitness. The slopes of the Everest region, where the predominant bulk of the altitude treks are made, are quite a bit steeper than those in Dudh Kunda. The most altitude gained in one setting the trekkers will reach to an altitude of 4.560. Anyone, regardless of experience, will greatly enjoy the wonderful spiritual experience that the trek has to offer. Hill Sherpa Trekking will ensure that the trekkers are thoroughly properly paced and accustomed to the adjusting altitude changes of Dudh Kunda.

Why choose the Dudh Kunda Trek?

Dudh Kunda Trek offers an experience that is unmatched in its combination of breathtaking beauty, rich culture, and the prosperity of the individuals who are celebrating life. The trekking market is very competitive and always crowded but some treks, like Dudh Kunda, are gaining popularity. The region offers and promotes a very spiritual, authentic experience while still maintaining the other cultural visiting aspects of the sherpa, ancient monasteries, and rich wildlife.

Best time to trek

The two times of the year when trekking in Dudh Kunda is at its prime are Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November). Because of the trekking region, these two times a year are guaranteed to have very minimal obstacles and unsafe walking conditions on the trails. During these two times the altitude to the mountains will bring very stable and calm weather for most beds to the trekkers.

Difficulty Level

The trek is within the moderate range of difficulty. The gains in altitude when doing the trek are incremental and the trek is relatively flat. Each day you will be walking about 4-7 hours every day and it is easily achievable for someone in the moderate range of fitness. The trek is made up of wooded areas and meadows with some rocky and high altitude areas close to Dudh Kunda but there is no portion of the trek which is deemed technically challenging.

Preparation and Training

Enhancing your experience for this trek will be greatly impacted by the amount of time you take to prepare for it. We recommend some light cardio bouts to be done. This can take the form of walking, running, biking, and stair climbing. Also including some targeting strengthening exercises for your leg muscles will be beneficial. Also, to aid the experience, practicing some uphill walking with a backpack and a day visitation plan will aid in mental prep for the experience.

Altitude Sickness

The Dudh Kunda altitude is 4,560m, but the altitude is relatively flat which allows for the body to get time to acclimatize to the overall altitude range. Some symptoms which can occur are frequent headaches and fatigue. The best way to be able to avoid altitude sickness is to use mental strength and hydration. The safest way to die is to scream and kill. With the Dudh Kund altitude being high, Hill Sherpa Trekking Staff are trained in first aid and high altitude issues.

Transportation

Most hikers travel from Kathmandu to Phaplu and then to the trailhead by road; however, the trip does take about 8 to 9 hours. The road trip provides lovely views of rural communities. This remains the best transport option by road; however, if the weather is good, the option of flying may be available. Despite weather conditions, overland travel is the best option for getting to Phaplu.

Communication, Gadgets Charging, and Internet/WiFi

The availability of cellular networks and WiFi varies at different elevations on the Trek. The lower reaches at villages such as Phaplu, Ringmo and Junbesi have mobile coverage and paid WiFi. The upper regions such as Sarsar Beni may have no coverage. Most homestays and teahouses offer charging options, sometimes requiring a small fee. It is good to carry a charger and some offline maps.

Alternative Trek Routes

The Dudh Kunda Trek could be integrated with few amazing alternative trails by trekkers who want a prolonged, more adventurous trek. The extensions that are popular are the Pikey Peak Trek, Everest Cultural Trek, Everest Base Camp Trek and Mera Peak Climbing and Mundhum Trail trek which have a higher cultural involvement and a wider Himalayan scenery. The trail can also be linked with the classic Everest trail of Jiri to make an adventurous trekker experience a really enriching and holy trekking experience within the lower SoluKhumbu region.

Elevation and Distance

Starting at an elevation of 2650 meters and climbing to 4560 meters, the trek offers varied elevations. Depending on one’s itinerary, the trek can be approximately 40 km to 55 km. Due to the gradual climb, the trek can be considered among the easier ones at higher altitudes.

Minimum/Maximum Walk Per Day

Depending on the walking terrain, participants are expected to walk between 4 to 7 hours a day. On mountain trails, the walks will take longer than if there are just forest trails, and on the day to Dudh Kunda there are just under 7 hours of walking to the campsite and back.

What to Expect on the Dudh Kunda Trek

The walks on the trek will primarily have breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the peace of the mountains. Dudh Kunda, the highlight of the trek, is where the combination of mountains, spirituality, and nature creates an oasis of silence. The trek is a rural experience and is far from commercial tourism.

Cultural Significance

Dudh Kunda is a sacred pilgrimage place for both followers of Buddhism and Hinduism. It is believed that the lake will cleanse one’s sins and offer blessings in the form of good luck. The area is also famous for its historical monasteries including the one in Junbesi. The Sherpa and Tibetan descendants also populate the regions of the lake. Local celebrations, customs, and ways of life provide a fascinating cultural experience.

Accommodation & Food

The hotel in Kathmandu is a standard tourist hotel. The accommodation in the region is family-run homestays and teahouses which are temperature controlled. The rooms are plain though beautifully designed in terms of the basics like clean beddings and genuine hospitality. The food in the region is typical of Nepal such as dal bhat, noodles, soup, Tibetan bread and Sherpa Cuisine. The food is made on the spot, and it is generally vegetarian made using fresh materials. The cultural exchange is also a chance of staying with the as local families.

Packing & Preparation

Bring some nice trekking shoes, warm clothes, gloves, warm hat, a good tent, a sleeping bag. Carry your trekking equipment with you, hiking poles and a headlamp. In addition, pack your bag with all the personal drugs you need and a refillable water bottle. Hill Sherpa Trekking will help you with checking gear before you go, however, you should also have a small bag that you can use on a daily basis.

Why Travel Insurance?

Insurance is necessary for trekking in Nepal. It must include emergency medical treatment, helicopter evacuation, trip interruption, and accident coverage. Numerous things can go wrong even on the moderate Dudh Kunda Trek, like sudden weather changes, extreme altitude sickness, or injuries. Insurance coverage is protection from costly expenses and secures your safety.

Flight Options

Most travelers drive to Phaplu, but during peak season, flights from Kathmandu to Phaplu are available. These flights, however, are dependent on weather conditions and can save hours of travel time. Since flight availability is often unpredictable, Hill Sherpa Trekking will assist in navigating the most reliable option depending on the season.

Conclusion

For those travelers looking for the spiritual and peace-seeking experience on their Dudh Kunda Trek, the journey provides culture and modern trekking like it has never been seen before. The views of the sacred pilgrimages are breathtaking and will provide your authentic homestay experience but still moderate the difficulty trekking in the Himalayas. Hill Sherpa Trekking will guide you safely, will give you interconnection and appreciation for the remote, rich culture and the remote beauty of Nepal.

Altitude Chart of Dudh Kunda Trek 9 Days

Equipment List

General Information

The company provides a feather sleeping bag, a feather down Jacket, but they should be refunded after the trek.
Hill Sherpa Trekking provides a duffle bag during the trek, but it should be refunded after the trek.
We mostly recommend for morning and evening, the windproof and waterproof thin-layered jacket above 3450m.
We mostly recommend for Daypack bag 35-45 Ltr.
Headlamp & extra batteries during the trek

Daily Use Essentials

A Sun Block Cap & Fleece hat
Sunglasses 100% snow uv protection
A muffle (full cover mask)
Sunscreen (30+ to 60 SPF, depending on age)
A pair of thin & warm gloves
A pair of Trekking poles
Water bottle & filter
Water purified tablets
lips guard

Upper Body Essentials

Warm hat
A pair of t-shirts
Thermal tops
Sports bras for ladies
windproof & fleece jacket
waterproof jacket

All Lower Body

waterproof trouser
warmer & fleece trousers
A pair of Comfortable trekking pants
Extra comfortable sports pants
A pair of sports shoes
Thermal underwear
A pair of comfortable waterproof trekking boots
Pair of light sandals
Some Thick (woolen) socks
Sock liners
Light shoes

Personal Medical and First Aid Kits

Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for AMS)
Adhesive bandages and pocket masks
Non-stick pad W/ Adhesive
Ibuprofen & paracetamol tablets IP
Some Assorted adhesive bandages
Warps, splints, and wound coverings, butterfly bandage
Blister treatment cream or similar
Insect / anti-itch ointment
Moves in case sprain any body
pain-relief medication
Sinex, & Eye Drops etc.
Gauze sponge
Saline solution

Important Things

passport-size photos with original passport scan copy
Travel and medical insurance
Flight details (to pick you up & transfer to hotel)

Extra Essential Things

Energy gel or dry foods (that’s your desire)
A power bank is most important for a backup device (if you have one)
Camera, chargers, extra batteries, memory card)
Most important for ladies’ essential things (if you are a lady)

Frequently Asked Questions

General

What is the Dudh Kunda Trek?

The Dudh Kunda Trek is a modest hike in the Solu region of the Himalayas that ends at the holy Dudh Kunda Lake at the base of Numbur Himal. People know it for its spiritual importance, calm trails, Sherpa culture, and stunning views of the mountains.

Is it possible to change the itinerary?

Yes, depending on your time and desire, you can make the walk longer or shorter and add routes like Junbesi, Taksindu, or monasteries.

What is the highest point that was reached?

Dudh Kunda Lake, which is 4,560 meters (14,957 feet) high, is the highest point.

How do we get to the beginning?

Most trekkers drive from Kathmandu to Phaplu, which takes roughly 8 to 9 hours. There may be flights during high season, however, they rely on the weather.

Is there WiFi or a mobile network?

Some communities, such as Phaplu, Ringmo, and Junbesi, have WiFi and mobile coverage. Sarsar Beni and other high places have little or no connectivity.

What kinds of animals will I see?

You can often see Himalayan Thar, yaks, pheasants, and sometimes bears. There are snow leopards in the area, but you don’t see them very often.

What is it about Dudh Kunda that makes it special?

People think that going to Dudh Kunda will wash away their sins and bring them good luck. The peaceful setting below Numbur Himal makes it a beautiful and spiritual place to visit.

Are there a lot of people on this trek?

No. The Dudh Kunda Trek is one of the least frequented trails in the Solu region, so you can enjoy peace and quiet and real local experiences.

Preparation & Fitness

How hard is the Dudh Kunda Trek?

People think the hike is moderate and good for beginners who are in good shape. The routes are easy to follow, and the altitude rises slowly, so most people can handle it.

Is this hike open to beginners?

Yes, the Dudh Kunda Trek can be easily completed even by beginners with the right pace and guidance. Some knowledge of trekking experience would be nice, but not essential.

Do I need to have been trekking before?

You don’t need any previous experience, but being in good shape and being ready for the walk will make it more enjoyable.

How many hours do we walk every day?

You should expect to walk for 4 to 7 hours each day, depending on the terrain and the height.

Permits

Do I need permit to go on the Dudh Kunda Trek?

Yes, you need a local area trekking permit or a fee for the rural municipality. This will be taken care of by your trekking company.

Insurance and Visa

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes. All hikers in Nepal should get travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and helicopter evacuations.

Accommodation and Facilities

What type of accommodation there?

You can stay in local homestays and teahouses, where the rooms are modest yet cozy. Staying with local family makes the trip more culturally rich.

Food and Drinks

What kinds of food can you have on the trek?

Nepali food including dal bhat, Sherpa dinners, noodles, soups, pancakes, bread, and tea is all served in teahouses. There are a lot of vegetarian options.

Weather & Seasons

When is the best time to go on the trek?

Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are the greatest times to go since the weather is consistent and the sights are clear. These times of year are great for hiking.

Health & Safety

How safe is this hike?

The trail is secure and well-kept with an expert guide from Hill Sherpa Trekking. Guides keep an eye on your health and make sure you’re going at the right speed.

Am I worried about altitude sickness?

As the trek gets to 4,560m, mild symptoms may start to show. The slow climb lowers the risk, and guides are prepared to deal with problems that come up at high altitudes.

Packing & Gear

What do I need to bring on the trek?

A small daypack, warm clothing, trekking boots, a sleeping bag, gloves, a headlamp, sunscreen, a water bottle, and your own medicines. You need clothes that can handle the weather.