Shey Phoksundo Lake is a natural wonder that offers a unique trekking experience through the breathtaking landscapes of Nepal’s Dolpa district. The trails pass through thick pine forests, wild rivers, and snow-capped mountains, offering spectacular views that are unmatched anywhere else in the world.

The highlight of the trek is undoubtedly the mesmerizing deep-blue and emerald hues of the Shey Phoksundo Lake, which is the deepest lake in Nepal and one of the most beautiful natural tourist destinations in the country.

This blog will take you on a journey through the stunning landscapes of the region where you will discover the unique Tibetan culture and diverse wildlife that call this place home. We will also guide you through the trek to the lake.

You can witness the turquoise waters of Shey Phoksundo and camp under the starry skies. Join us on this journey to explore the beauty and cultural richness of one of the most beautiful lakes in the world.

If you are a nature lover and an adventurer at heart, you need to add Shey Phoksundo Lake to your bucket list. Moreover, located in the Mid-Western part of Nepal, this lake is surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Himalayas.

In addition to the natural wonders, the area around Shey Phoksundo Lake also offers a unique cultural experience. Traditional Tibetan culture prevails in upper Dolpo, while Buddhism and Bon are prevalent in lower Dolpo, including Ringmo village. Visitors can get a rare close look into traditional Bonpo culture at Ringmo and explore the cultural heritage of the area.

Therefore, in this blog, we will take you on a journey to Shey Phoksundo Lake, from your arrival in Kathmandu to the trek to the lake and the fascinating experiences you can have there.

Arriving in Kathmandu: Your Gateway to the Himalayas

To reach Shey Phoksundo Lake, you will first need to arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital city. Kathmandu is a vibrant and bustling city that will introduce you to Nepal’s rich culture and history. Take some time to explore the city’s temples, markets, and museums before embarking on your trek.

Fly to Nepalgunj: Your Starting Point

From Kathmandu, you will need to take a short domestic flight to Nepalgunj. Specifically, it is a city in western Nepal that serves as the starting point for the trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake. Additionally, Nepalgunj is situated on the southern border of Nepal and is known for its tropical climate and proximity to the Terai region. Once you arrive in Nepalgunj, you will need to take another short flight to Juphal, the starting point for the trek.

Trek to Phoksundo Lake: A Journey Through Tibetan Culture

The trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake is a 4-5 day journey. It takes you through the stunning landscapes of the Himalayas and introduces you to the unique Tibetan culture of the region. The trek starts in Juphal, and from there, you will walk north to the ranger station at Phoksundo Lake.

Shey Phoksundo National Park: Home to Diverse Wildlife

The trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake takes you through the Shey Phoksundo National Park. Notably, it is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including musk deer, snow leopards, and Himalayan Tahr. Furthermore, the park was established in 1984 to protect the unique ecosystem of the region. Therefore, it is one of the most remote and unspoiled areas of Nepal.

Phoksundo National Park Check Post: Your Entry Point

To enter the Shey Phoksundo National Park, you will need to pass through a check post at the park’s entrance. Here, you will need to show your trekking permit and pay a fee to enter the park. The check post is also a great place to get information about the trek and the park’s wildlife.

Bon Monastery: A Window into the Local Culture

As you trek through the region, you will come across many monasteries that offer a glimpse into the unique culture of the area. Furthermore, one of the most prominent monasteries in the region is the Bon Monastery. Specifically, it is located in the village of Ringmo.

Notably, the Bon religion is an ancient religion that predates Buddhism and is unique to Tibetan culture. Therefore, the Bon Monastery is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning about the region’s culture and history.

Maize Fields: A Feast for the Eyes

The trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes of the Himalayas. Notably, this includes fields of maize that stretch as far as the eye can see.

Furthermore, these fields are a testament to the hard work and perseverance of the local people. Specifically, they have managed to cultivate the land in the harsh Himalayan environment.

Roop Ghar: A Unique Local Experience

As you trek through the region, you will come across many local villages that offer a unique insight into the daily lives of the people who live there.

Specifically, one such village is Roop Ghar, which is known for its traditional architecture and vibrant culture. Moreover, this is a great place to take a break from the trek and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Phoksundo Lake: A Turquoise Jewel in the Himalayas

After 4-5 days of trekking through the stunning landscapes of the Himalayas, you will finally arrive at Shey Phoksundo Lake. It is one of the most beautiful and unique lakes in the world.

The lake is known for its turquoise color and is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, making it a photographer’s paradise.

Wildlife Spotting: A Thrilling Experience

One of the highlights of visiting Shey Phoksundo Lake is the opportunity to spot a diverse range of wildlife. The lake is home to musk deer, snow leopards, Himalayan tahr, and many other species.

Keep your eyes peeled for these animals during your trek, and you may be lucky enough to spot one.

Camping: A Unique Way to Experience the Lake

To fully appreciate the beauty and tranquility of Shey Phoksundo Lake, consider camping near the lake. There are several campsites around the lake.  And camping is a great way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.

What will you come across on this trek?

Here are some of the things you will come across during the Shey Phoksundo Lake trek:

• Fly to Juphal and trek to the starting point of the Shey Phoksundo Lake trek
• The stunning landscapes of the Himalayas, including snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and rugged terrain
• The unique Tibetan culture of the region, including traditional architecture and vibrant festivals
• Several picturesque villages, including Roop Ghar, known for their traditional architecture and local culture
• Shey Phoksundo National Park is home to diverse wildlife such as musk deer, snow leopards, and Himalayan tahr
• Camping sites around the turquoise waters of Shey Phoksundo Lake
• Bon Monastery, a significant religious site for followers of Bon, one of the oldest spiritual traditions of Tibet
• Maize fields, where locals farm the staple crop of the region
• North to the ranger station at Phoksundo Lake to complete the Phoksundo National Park check
• National park check post, where you will need to show permits and pay the entry fee to the park
• Opportunities to spot a diverse range of wildlife in their natural habitat, including musk deer, snow leopards, and Himalayan tahr.

FAQs

Here are five FAQs related to the Shey Phoksundo Lake trek:

How difficult is the trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake?

The trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake is considered to be moderately challenging, with several steep climbs and descents. It is recommended for trekkers with some previous experience and fitness levels.

What is the best time to visit Shey Phoksundo Lake?

The best time to visit Shey Phoksundo Lake is from September to November and from March to May when the weather is dry and the skies are clear.

The monsoon season from June to August is not recommended for trekking due to heavy rain and muddy trails.

Do I need a permit to trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake?

Yes, you will need to obtain a permit to trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake. Specifically, you will need to obtain a TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card and a Shey Phoksundo National Park entry permit from the Nepal Tourism Board or an authorized trekking agency.

Which kind of wildlife might I anticipate seeing on the trek?

The Shey Phoksundo National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife. It includes musk deer, snow leopards, Himalayan tahr, and many other species.

While there is no guarantee of spotting these animals, keep your eyes peeled during the trek. You may be lucky enough to see them.

FSDA

Can I camp near Shey Phoksundo Lake?

Yes, there are several camping sites near Shey Phoksundo Lake. Camping is a great way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. It is recommended for a more authentic trekking experience.

Conclusion: A Journey of a Lifetime

The Shey Phoksundo Lake trek is a journey through one of the most beautiful and culturally rich regions of Nepal. Specifically, from the stunning landscapes of the Himalayas to the unique Tibetan culture, this trek offers a truly unforgettable experience.

Additionally, the turquoise waters of Shey Phoksundo Lake, surrounded by the rugged terrain and snow-capped peaks, are a sight to behold and are sure to leave you breathless. Moreover, the diverse wildlife and lush forests of the Shey Phoksundo National Park add to the charm of the trek.

While the trek may be challenging, the experience of camping under the starry skies and immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the area is well worth the effort. With proper planning, preparation, and a willingness to embrace the adventure, the Shey Phoksundo Lake trek can be an experience of a lifetime.

Overall, the Shey Phoksundo Lake trek is a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural immersion, offering something for everyone. Whether you are an experienced trekker or just looking for an adventure, this trek is sure to leave a lasting impression on your mind and soul.