The Dudh Kunda Trek is one of Nepal’s lesser-explored lodge treks. “Dudh Kunda,” which means “Milk Lake,” is situated at the base of Mt. Numbur (6,958 mt / 22,828 ft) and Mt. Karyalung (6,681m / 21,920 ft) in the lower Everest region, Solukhumbu district. This trekking route takes you through traditional Sherpa villages and monasteries, offering breathtaking views of the mountains along the way.
The pristine lake of Dudh Kunda holds great religious significance for both Buddhist and Hindu pilgrims. It is believed that a visit to this turquoise lake can fulfill one’s wishes. If you visit in August during the Janai Purnima (Full Moon) festival, you can witness a vibrant celebration around the lake, drawing pilgrims and devotees from near and far.
This trek, which takes you to Dudh Kunda Lake at a relatively lower altitude, offers stunning vistas of Mount Everest (8,848 meters) and the Khumbu Himalayan Range from viewpoints like Kamu Danda and Pare Danda. The trail meanders through lush rhododendron forests, which are ablaze with colorful blooms in spring. Along the way, you may spot wildlife such as mountain goats, leopards, Himalayan Thars, and birds like the Impeyan Pheasant or Himalayan Monal.
Unlike the more crowded Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Base Camp treks, the Dudh Kunda Trek is visited by only a few of travelers each year. Previously, the lack of lodges and restaurants limited its accessibility, but with new facilities of meals and accommodation now available, the number of visitors is gradually growing.
The best time to embark on this trek is during March, April, September, October, November, or December, when the views and weather are at their finest. For those with 12 to 14 days, the trek can also include a visit to the picturesque Pikey Peak Trek.
Stand at the base of Mt. Numbur (6,958 mt / 22,828 ft)and Mt. Karyalung (6,681m / 21,920 ft), while taking in stunning panoramic mountain views.
Discover the serene Dudh Kunda Lake and other alpine lakes.
Immerse yourself in Sherpa culture by visiting traditional villages.
Hike through tranquil forests, home to diverse wildlife and colorful blooms in spring.
Savor local delicacies like apples, potatoes, and cheese.
Deepen your understanding of Buddhism with a visit to Thupten Choeling Monastery.
6 UNESCO Heritage Sites Private Sightseeing Tour in Kathmandu with guide.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft), Transfer to Hotel
Day 2: Sightseeing Tour of 6 UNESCO Heritage Sites in Kathmandu
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Ringmu (2,825 m / 9,270 ft), 10-11 hours
Day 4: Trek from Ringmu to Kamo Danda (3,880 m / 12,730 ft), 4-5 hours
Day 5: Trek from Kamo Danda to Saharsa (Sahasra) Beni (4,030 m / 13,220 ft), 3-4 hours
Day 6: Trek from Saharsa (Sahasra) Beni to Dudh Kunda (4,600 m / 15,090 ft) and return to Saharsa Beni (4,030 m / 13,220 ft), 6-7 hours
Day 7: Trek from Saharsa (Sahasra) Beni to Thupten Choeling Monastery (3,000 m / 9,843 ft), 6-7 hours
Day 8: Trek from Thupten Choling Monastery to Phaplu (2,470 m / 8,104 ft), 5-6 hours
Day 9: Drive from Phaplu to Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,600 ft), 9-10 hours
Day 10: Transfer to International Airport
Welcome to the Nepal Himalayas! Upon your arrival at Kathmandu airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal, is filled with bustling streets, aromatic local cuisine, and vibrant traditional attire.
Overnight at a hotel.
Embark on a cultural journey through the Kathmandu Valley, visiting iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swoyambhunath (Monkey Temple), Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa. These sites reflect the region’s rich history and culture.
Overnight at a hotel.
Meals: Breakfast included.
After an early breakfast, we begin our scenic drive to Phaplu, followed by a short drive to Ringmu, a traditional Sherpa village. The journey follows the Sunkoshi River, navigating winding roads and rugged terrain.
Overnight at a guesthouse.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Our trek begins with a steady ascent through the trail to Taksindu (3,170 m), featuring stunning landscapes and a Chhorten (stupa). After a short break, we continue with a steep climb through dense jungle to Kamo Danda. If the weather permits, you’ll enjoy views of Mount Everest and other mountains.
Overnight at a guesthouse.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Enjoy morning views of the mountains before a relaxed trek to Saharsa Beni. The trail passes through forests adorned with vibrant rhododendron blooms in spring. The hiking trail is easier; mostly flat way.
Overnight at a guesthouse.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Today’s highlight is a visit to the turquoise Dudh Kunda Lake. Along the way, you’ll pass Ghost Lake (Black Lake) and Ganga and Jamuna (Twin Lakes) before reaching the sacred Dudh Kunda Lake, nestled at the foot of Mount Numbur and Mount Karyalung. After enjoying the serene beauty, we return to Saharsa Beni.
Overnight at a guesthouse.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Cross Pare Danda (Hill) for breathtaking mountain views before descending to the renowned Thupten Choling Monastery. This spiritual center is home to hundreds of Buddhist monks and nuns. You’ll have the chance to observe their daily routines and immerse yourself in the monastery’s peaceful atmosphere.
Overnight at a guesthouse.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
The trek continues downhill through the Junbesi Village, following a off road along the Junbesi Khola. Enjoy the serene countryside, Sherpa village and culture along the way.
Overnight at a guesthouse.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
We take a long but scenic drive back to Kathmandu. Relax and reflect on your trekking adventure upon returning to the city.
Overnight at a hotel.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch included.
We will transfer you to Kathmandu International Airport at least 3 hours before your scheduled departure. Depart with fond memories of the Dudh Kunda Trek in Lower Everest Region and we hope to welcome you back to Nepal for more adventures.
Meals: Breakfast included.
Dudh Kunda Trek is relatively easier and shorter in duration than the Everest Base Camp Trek. It is because trekkers will be hiking to the ultimate heights at Dudh Kunda (4,600 m / 15,090 ft). Trekkers do not require technical training or rock climbing and mountaineering skills but you need to be physically fitness to hike 6 to 8 hours daily. Some physical fitness programs such as running, swimming, and hiking are recommended before your journey.
The best months to do the Dudh Kunda Trek is February, March, April, May, September, October, November, and December. During these months, the weather is generally favorable with clear skies and mild temperatures, making for optimal trekking conditions and stunning mountain views.
Our trekking guides are trained and hold a trekking guide license issued by the Nepalese government. All of our guides are local with a deep understanding of the mountains, culture, health and your safety. All of our guides are skilled, experienced, courteous and helpful. They are proficient in English and will be able to communicate effectively with you throughout the trip.
You can get verity of meals including typical Nepali Dal Bhat (Rice, Curry and lentils), breads, noodles, soups, eggs, toast, potato varieties, pizza, pasta, burger items are common choices in the menu. Breakfast and dinner will be served from tea house or lodge where we stay overnight and lunch will be served on the way to next destination. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included during the trek.
Boiled water and bottled drinking water options are available along the trekking route. We do not recommend you drink water from local sources such as taps, wells, and rivers.
You will be accommodated in 3 star level hotel in Kathmandu. During the trek, you will have a normal room in guesthouses and lodges. In some cases, during peak season, you need to share a room with others.
Yes, it is necessary to have insurance to join this Dudh Kunda Trek. Your insurance should cover cost of Helicopter rescue and treatment.
Yes, while porters can carry the majority of your belongings, it’s recommended to carry a small day backpack yourself. This backpack can hold essentials such as drinking water, snacks, sunscreen, camera, sunglasses and any other items you may need easy access to during the day hike.
Yes, trekkers should note that the luggage limit for a porter is 20kg, and typically, there is one porter assigned for every two trekkers. It’s advisable to pack efficiently and within this weight limit to ensure ease of transportation during the trek.