Ringmo is a village on the shore of Phoksundo Lake in the Dolpo Region, at about 3,330 m. It is home to people who follow Bon, the pre-Buddhist religion of the Himalayan plateau. Many itineraries take a rest day here to acclimatise, see the monastery and walk by the lake.
Altitude: about 3,330 m. Heights quoted for villages and camps vary by source, so treat this as a guide.
Where Ringmo is and why trekkers stop
Ringmo is reached after following the river to Ankhe and Renje, passing a high waterfall and climbing to the Phoksundo outlet. The walk from the airstrip takes a couple of days. It is the main base for visiting Shey Phoksundo Lake, so most itineraries stay at least one night, and often take a full rest day.
Walk the lakeshore gently and leave offerings or rubbish behind nowhere. The water is sacred to local people, so keep voices low and respect any customs your guide explains about visiting the shore.
What to expect at Ringmo
The village sits on the lakeshore, with a Bon community, a monastery and, in summer, green barley fields and yaks grazing near the water. Walk the paths around the lake, keeping prayer walls on your left, and ask before photographing people. The scenery changes with light, so early morning and late afternoon walks are especially rewarding.
Light changes the lake through the day, from deep blue in clear sun to grey under cloud. Allow time for more than one walk, ideally at dawn and again near dusk.
Altitude and how you may feel
Ringmo is at about 3,330 m, so it is a sensible place to rest and adapt before higher country. Our itineraries use a rest day to acclimatise. Mild headaches or poor sleep are possible. Drink water, walk slowly and tell your guide how you feel. Altitude illness can strike, and descending is the right response if symptoms worsen.
Short walks to higher viewpoints, followed by a return to sleep at Ringmo, are a classic way to adapt. Rest well, keep fluids up and avoid heavy meals late in the evening.
Lodging, food and practical tips
Lodges at Ringmo are basic but adequate, with meals of dal bhat, noodles, eggs and potatoes. Carry rupees, as card payment is not possible. Fresh vegetables are scarce, so bring vitamins and snacks. The area lies inside a national park, and Dolpo includes restricted areas further on, so keep permits in a waterproof bag and use a licensed guide.
Warm layers matter after sunset, even in summer, because the air off the lake cools quickly. Waterproofs and a sun hat both earn their place, since weather can swing from bright to wet.
Common questions
How high is Ringmo?
Ringmo is at about 3,330 m, on the shore of Phoksundo Lake. It is a good place for a rest day before heading to higher parts of Dolpo.
Why do trekkers rest at Ringmo?
The rest day helps your body adapt to height and lets you see the lake and monastery. It lowers the chance of altitude problems on the higher passes that follow.
What is special about Ringmo?
It is a lakeshore village whose people follow Bon, the pre-Buddhist religion of the Himalayan plateau. Please respect local customs, walk around religious structures in the traditional direction and ask before taking photographs.
