A breathtaking lake with an entrancing blue-green coloration can be found in the Dolpo region of Nepal. The hike to Shey Phoksundo Lake offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness something genuinely extraordinary in unspoiled and gorgeous environments. Shey Phoksundo Lake lies inside the Dolpo district of Nepal which is also the biggest and the least explored region of Nepal. Dolpo region is very vast and full of mysteries, however this relatively short trek to the gorgeous lake is a step to explore a part of something unknown and full of surprises.
During the trek to Phoksundo Lake, you will pass through a thick forest that is home to many different kinds of trees. Some of these species include oaks, pines, and fir trees. You will also come across lofty suspension bridges and traditional towns as you make your way along this route. Tshowa Monastery may be found to the north of the lake, and Ringmo Village can be found to the south of the lake. Ringmo village is also known for its continued observance of Bon-Po culture. In addition, hikers get the chance to explore several monasteries, such as Shey Gompa and Thasung Gompa, during their time in the mountains.
Phoksundo is a remarkably deep oligotrophic lake situated at 3,611 meters. This lake holds great significance for Buddhists and followers of the Bon-Po religion, as it is considered holy and sacred. Nepal's natural tourist spot is undeniably scenic and beautiful. The lake is located on the outskirts of Shey Phoksundo National Park. The national park is home to a diverse array of plants and animals. It provides a wide range of stunning and picturesque landscapes. The trek reaches its highest point at Phoksundo Lake, which is located at an elevation of 3,640 meters above sea level. Meanwhile, to enter this area, certain permits are mandatory for trekkers as it is located within one of the restricted areas of Nepal.
The region around Phoksundo Lake is one of the most isolated and undeveloped regions in Nepal. Because of that the local teahouse and the lodges provide the basic accommodation facilities for the trekkers traveling to Phoksundo Lake. Phoksundo lake trek is one of the shortest trekking trails in the far western part of Nepal. With our Phoksundo Lake Trek itinerary, you can complete it easily within a week with the help of our expert trekking leader. This is one of the moderate difficulty levels of the trek and beginners with normal fitness levels can join the trek.
Autumn is the best time for trekking in Nepal. September, October, and November are seen as the best months for Phoksundo Lake Trek. During this month of the year, the temperature is warm in the daytime as well as chill in the morning and during the evening. Due to the high visibility eye-appealing view of the Phoksundo Lake can be seen along with the valleys. There are chances of snowfall during Mid December. During this month of the year, the temperature is cold but offers a jaw-dropping reward.
Spring (March, April, and May) are another best season for trekking to Phoksundo Lake. During these seasons, the weather is perfect and the temperature is moderate. During these seasons the surrounding area is full of lush green vegetation along with flowering plants such as rhododendron. So, trekkers can enjoy the best sightseeing of blooming rhododendrons and magnificent views of Dhaulagiri and other ranges. The vibrant flowers make the walk more pleasant. Monsoon (June to August) is not favorable because of harsh weather, coldness, and muddy-slippery roads. The trail gets very rough during the rainy season as it will be slippery and hard to walk on.
What is Phoksundo Lake Trek?
The Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek is highly popular in the western region of Nepal. Situated at an impressive elevation of 3,640 meters above sea level, Shey Phoksundo is undeniably one of the most renowned lakes in Nepal. Trekking through Nepal's Shey Phoksundo National Park offers an incredible and unforgettable experience. During the trek, you will have the opportunity to observe rare and endangered species of flora and fauna, as well as enjoy the stunning sights of the lake, waterfall, valley, and other natural wonders.
Furthermore, this trek offers you the chance to discover and explore remote regions. The trip becomes truly memorable as you cross the ancient salt trade route, witness the majestic yak caravans, and take in the breathtaking views of the pristine Kanjirowa Himal on the oligotrophic Phoksundo. During their trek, trekkers will have the opportunity to ascend and descend through traditional villages such as Dunai, Chhepka, Jharana Hotel, and Santa. During the trip, trekkers will have the opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of a 167-meter waterfall. This region is home to several endangered species, including Musk deer, snow leopards, blue sheep, and Himalayan Thar. If you want to explore the upper Dolpo area you can extend a few days to this trek and explore the upper region as well while you are still in the Dolpo area.
After your trek is finished a scenic flight will transport you to the starting point of the trek. After trekking for a week in the western part of Nepal, you will return to Kathmandu by flying back from the same point. Jhupal serves as the starting point for treks and can be easily reached by taking a scenic flight from Nepalgunj. The residents of upper Dolpo adhere to Tibetan culture, while the residents of lower Dolpo practice Buddhism. Additionally, some of them adhere to the Bon-Po religion. The Bon-Po followers move in a counterclockwise direction around the monasteries.
Shey Phoksundo National Park - Isolated Paradise.
Shey Phoksundo National Park is the largest as well as the only trans-Himalayan national park in Nepal. It is one of the many beautiful national parks in Nepal. It is located in the Dolpa and Mugu districts in the mid-western part of Nepal. Meanwhile, the total area of Shey Phoksundo National Park is 3,555 square kilometers. The topography of Shey Phoksundo national park is very unique with lush green juniper forests piled with dirt and dust. The Dolpo area is divided into two sections Upper Dolpo and Lower Dolpo. Lower Dolpo is a bit more developed than the upper Dolpo as the upper part is least explored and most isolated as it falls inside the restricted area in Nepal and requires some specific permit to access.
The unique and untouched nature makes the perfect habitat for the majestic wild animals in these regions such as Snow leopards, musk deer, Himalayan Tahr, blue sheep, Himalayan black bears, and jackals are some of the popular wild animals found inside this national park. In addition to its natural wonders, Shey Phoksundo National Park is also known for being home to numerous Buddhist monasteries.
Some of the prominent locations in upper Dolpo include Shey Gompa, a well-known monastery. This is also the place where the highly anticipated Shey Festival takes place every 12 years. Shey Phoksundo National Park is a vast and unexplored area, which contributes to its status as one of the least visited destinations. The landscape of this place in Nepal is truly unique, distinguished by its mountain deserts, high passes, and a touch of madness that sets it apart from any other location you will encounter.
Phoksundo Lake - The deepest lake in Nepal.
The lake in the Dolpo region, known for its blue-green color, holds great significance for the Buddhist community, particularly those who follow the Bon-Po religion, as it is considered a sacred site. Shey Phoksundo Lake, with its stunning beauty, is located at an elevation of 3,640 meters above sea level. This mesmerizing destination attracts over 2,000 visitors annually. Shey Phoksundo Lake is not only the deepest lake in Nepal but also one of the most pristine and unexplored in the country.
The lake is truly breathtaking, with its crystal-clear waters and surrounded by majestic hills that give it the appearance of a green screen on a movie set. Phoksundo, locally known as Rigm Lake, is undoubtedly one of the most magnificent lakes. Its beauty is attributed to its distinctive shape, mesmerizing color, remote location, and deep cultural significance to the local people.
Phoksundo Lake has a maximum length of 5.15 square kilometers and an overall width of 800 meters. The lake has an approximate depth of 145 meters. The southern belt of the lake is home to over 20 stupas, while the eastern belt has one stupa. Special days throughout the year are marked by annual prayers and worship. The lake is situated in the foothills of the Kanjieowa mountains and has a distinctive Y shape. With its magnificent turquoise color and breathtaking scenery, it is evident that this mountain park is truly the most scenic in the world.
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