Shey Phoksundo Lake trek

Shey Phoksundo Lake located in Karnali Province, Dolpa District of Nepal at an elevation of 3,641 meters /11,945 feet above sea level. Crystal-clear Phoksundo Lake is a feature highlights of Shey Phoksundo National Park. It is one of the deepest lakes in Nepal surrounded by snow-capped mountains of Himalayas.

Shey Phoksundo national park permit and the Lower Dolpo special permit are essential permits to visit this area. Lower dolpo area permit fee USD 20 per person/ week and afterwards USD 5 per person /day. Phoksundo national park permit fee NPR 3000 per person per entry.

Combination of Flight, Drive and trekking are the main ways to reach Shey Phoksundo lake from Kathmandu or Pokhara. Flight to Kathmandu to Nepalgunj to Juphal then hiking to Phoksundo lake. Alternatively drive all the way from Kathmandu to Juphal then trek to the Lake. The trek takes you through beautiful landscapes, traditional villages, forests and alpine meadows. There are two different route to reach the Shey Phoksundo lake from juphal you can select walking trail as per your preferences and time availability.

Travelers get an opportunity to discover the rich biodiversity of National park. Variety of plant, birds and animal species like red panda, musk deer, blue sheep, snow leopards, Himalayan tahr etc. Beside that Phoksundo Lake, Kanjiroba Himal, Bon Po monasteries, practice of Tibetan Buddhism ant and wildness of the Himalayas.

The main reason to undertake Phoksundo Lake trek are stunning scenery, cultural immersion, birds and wildlife spotting, religious significance. it is moderate level trek beginners to experience hiker can complete within short time frame.

The best time to visit Shey Phoksundo Lake is in spring or fall months (March to May and September to December). During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant and sunny, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures to enjoy the trip.

Exact distance of Shey Phoksundo lake trek can vary depend on route you follow, starting and ending points. However, common route covers 85 to 108 kilometers in total. Trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake begin from Juphal and usually takes around 7-10 days, depend on your pace, itinerary and weather condition etc.

The difficulty level of Shey Phoksundo Lake trek is moderate type. Hikers must be in good physical condition, mental preparation to complete it. The highest point that you reach during this journey is 3641 meters / 11945 feet (Ringmo view point). Shey Phoksundo Lake is a popular trekking destination, requires a high level of altitude acclimatization to minimize the risk.

Shey Phoksundo Lake trek cost of basic package start from US$1,100 to US$2,500 per person. it is an estimates, actual cost of the trek may vary depends on length of trek, group size, level of luxury, transportation and the time of year you travel.

Tea house facility available in this route till to the Phoksundi lake of lower Dolpa. Local lodges / tea houses offer verity of local as well as western foods as per guest’s preferences. They do provide neat and clean room with bed, blanket and pillow to spend the night.

Shey Phoksundo Lake holds deep religious significance for the local Dolpo people. It is believed to have spiritual significance, associated with various Buddhist deities, spiritual practices and Bon rituals. Local Buddhist community organize ceremonies, prayers, and offerings time to time in this sacred site. Devotees walk around the lake in a clockwise direction, chanting mantras and prayers. This practice is believed to accumulate merit and purify the mind and body. Pilgrims believe that bathing in the lake’s waters can cleanse their sins and bring spiritual blessings.

Shey Phoksundo Lake is also surrounded by a rich tapestry of myths and legends. Turquoise Phoksundo Lake is a deepest lake in Nepal, with a maximum depth of 145 meters (476 feet). The lake is fed by several glaciers and streams, and its water drains into the Suligad River.

No, swimming is not allowed in Phoksundo Lake because of its holy status and for safety concerns. Phoksundo Lake is a beautiful lake and popular destination for tourists and locals of Nepal.

Juphal or Dunai are the trip start and end point of Shey Phoksundo trek. Walking trail is well-maintained but need to ascend and descent through variety of landscapes, including forests, meadows, river and alpine valleys etc.