Discover the majestic Dolpo region in Nepal. It has only been open to tourists since 1989. The remote region was made famous by Peter Matthiessen’s book’ The Snow Leopard.’ Phoksundo Lake, its most beautiful attraction, is holy for Buddhists and adherents of the Bonpo faith. This reasonably easy trek does not involve high passes, winds throughout the Himalayas forests, and traditional Tibetan villages. Nepal is the perfect place for nature lovers and thrill-seekers. Hence, planning a trip to Nepal and visiting Shey Phoksundo National Park is advisable if you want to experience an adrenaline rush on your next holiday.
Shey Phoksundo National Park is the largest national park in Nepal and the trans-Himalayan national park. It is known for its beautiful mountain scenery and landscape. This park offers visitors everything they would not expect in their wildest dreams, from the gigantic Himalayas to turquoise lakes and secluded hamlets. Here is everything you need if you ever plan to visit Shey Phoksundo National Park.
Key Takeaways
- Shey Phoksundo National Park, situated in Nepal’s Dolpa district, is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife.
- Phoksundo Lake Trek offers an easy adventure through beautiful landscapes, making it perfect for nature lovers.
- Visitors can experience the park’s natural beauty and cultural heritage through various trekking itineraries.
- The park charges a permit fee, and the best times to visit are April and November.
- Enjoy thrilling adventures while exploring the stunning views and unique biodiversity of Shey Phoksundo National Park.
Shey Phoksundo National Park geographical information
Location: Midwestern Nepal, covering the Dolpo district.
Area: 3555 km. square
Latitude: 29°21′29″N Longitude: 82°50′44″E
Shey Phoksundo National Park is a habitat for several endangered species, including the Snow Leopard, Himalayan Black Bear, Blue Sheep, Musk Deer, Himalayan Tahr, and jackal.
The Dolpo region is one of the world’s most scenic mountain parks in Shey Phoksundo National Park. Shey Phoksundo is one of the best places on the planet, where you don’t want to leave if you’re going to enjoy the untouched views of nature and the hidden trekking trails.
Phoksundo Lake Trek
When you approach the beautiful lake in the lower Dolpo region, you will realize why people were drawn to this area. In the stunning surroundings of the mountain, the aquamarine blue-green lake is a visual treat. The oligotrophic lake, which Buddhist monks consider sacred, is visited by 2,000 individuals or groups annually. Nepal’s deepest lake, you’ll even find endangered species such as musk deer and blue sheep grazing by the lake. Waterfalls and spectacular scenery will also greet you on the way to the lake.
| Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek: At the glance | |
| Duration | 8-11 days |
| Max. altitude | 3600 m |
| Start/Ends | Juphal |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Best Season | Spring/Fall |
| Trek Style | Lodge/camp |
Duration: It depends on your route, but you must travel for at least 11 days before reaching the lake.
Level of difficulty: This tea-house trip is a straightforward adventure for those who enjoy walking for long hours, since there are no mountain passes.
Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek itinerary
| Day | Highlight | Overnight |
| 1. | Arrive in Kathmandu | Kathmandu |
| 2. | Fly to Nepalgunj, a doorway to the Far West. | |
| 3. | Fly to Juphal and trek to Dunai | Dunai |
| 4. | Chhepka Village | Chhepka |
| 5. | Amchi Hospital | Chunuwar |
| 6. | Phoksundo Lake | Ringmo |
| 7. | Explore Phoksundo Lake and Tshowa Gompa | Ringmo |
| 8. | Trek to Chhepka | Chhepka |
| 9. | Juphal | Juphal |
| 10. | Fly to Nepalgunj, then take a flight to KTM | KTM |
Phoksundo Lake Trek price: The Lower Dolpo Trek permits for the Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek which is strictly enforced.
Lower Dolpo Permit: US$20 per week and USD 5 per person /week (beyond a week), whereas the Shey Phoksundo National Park fee is 3000 NPR
Since you have to go with a guide on an organized tour for the Phoksundo Lake Trek, your tour operator will arrange all permits at the time, and the total cost of your trip will usually include these costs.
Upper Dolpo Trek to Shey Gompa
The Upper Dolpo Trek to Shey Gompa is a gateway to heaven in the Upper Dolpo region. The trek takes you through rugged landscapes and authentic, isolated mountain villages such as Ringmo and Pelam. The Shey Monastery, situated at the base of Crystal Mountain, is the main attraction of the trek. The entire site appears to be a celestial canvas, meticulously etched to capture the essence of Nepalese village culture and lifestyle.
The Upper Dolpo is a restricted area with limited access. You may need to pay a fee for the entrance. You can also merge the two treks to get a fulfilling experience in Nepal’s Shey Phoksundo National Park. Here’s a FREE complete guide for the Upper Dolpo Trek if you’re considering going for the whole circuit.
| Quick Facts | |
| Duration | 24 days |
| Max. Elevation | 5150 m |
| Start/Ends | Juphal |
| Difficulty | Strenuous |
| Best Season | Spring/Fall |
| Trek Style | Camping |
Likewise, you have more options to choose the daring itineraries within the national park. The itineraries range from 8 to 27 days and can be extended to include Jomsom, Lower Dolpo Trek, or Phoksundo Lake Trek.
You also may like to read: 8 Most Beautiful National Parks in Nepal
Upper Dolpo Trek itinerary
| Day | Highlight | Altitude | Duration |
| 1. | Arrive in Kathmandu | 1350 m | |
| 2. | Fly to Nepalgunj, a doorway to the West | 150 m | 0h55 |
| 3. | Fly to Juphal, then trek to Dunai | 2565 m | 3h30 |
| 4. | Chhepka Village | 2670 m | 6h00 |
| 5. | Amchi Hospital | 3370 m | 6h40 |
| 6. | Phoksundo Lake | 3600 m | 4h00 |
| 7. | Explore Phoksundo Lake Tshowa Gompa | ||
| 8. | Trek to River Bed Camp | 3540 m | 5h30 |
| 9. | Kang-La High Camp | 4430 m | 7h00 |
| 10. | Yangzer Gompa | 4120 m | 6h30 |
| 11. | Exploration Day | ||
| 12. | Numagung via Shey-La (5000 m) | 4400 m | 7h00 |
| 13. | Saldang | 4000 m | 4h00 |
| 14. | Yangzer Gumpa | 3855 m | 5h00 |
| 15. | Sibu | 3970 m | 6h15 |
| 16. | Jeng- La Phedi | 4370 m | 5h00 |
| 17. | Tokyu via Jengla pass (5076 m) | 4270 m | 5h30 |
| 18. | Dho Tarap | 3900 m | 3h00 |
| 19. | Tarap Valley exploration. | ||
| 20. | Tarap Khola | 3600 m | 6h00 |
| 21. | Khani Gaon | 2550 m | 6h20 |
| 22. | Tarakot | 2280 m | 5h00 |
| 23. | Dunai | 2140 m | 4h45 |
| 24. | Juphal | 2500 m | 3h00 |
| 26. | Fly to Nepalgunj, then take a flight to KTM. | ||
| 27. | Depart Kathmandu |
Frequently Asked Questions: Shey Phoksundo National Park
There is no way to reach the park except on foot. If the trek to Phoksundo Lake is short, Juphal is an ideal place to start. Juphal can be reached via flight from Nepalgunj and is south of the park. Jumla is the base camp, whereas the trek or the entire Lower Dolpo Trek is via Kagmara—La Pass and Shey Phoksundo Lake.
The park’s weather varies between the prevailing monsoon and the arid climate since it is a trans-Himalayan region. Although the precipitation in the southern part of the park approaches 1500 mm, it is less than 500 mm on the northern slopes. Winters in the park are extreme, with snowfall occurring over 2,500 meters in regions. The temperature in the park above 3000 meters drops below freezing. April and November are the best times to visit Shey Phoksundo National Park in Nepal.
There are two different permits you should take to trek to Shey Phoksundo. If you trek in Upper Dolpo, you should take two different permits: the Park Fee and the restricted Area Permits. Shey Phoksundo National Park Fee + Restricted Area Permits if you go only to Lower Dolpo.
Conclusion
Are you a nature lover, adventure seeker, or cultural explorer? If yes, then you must check out the mesmerizing Shey Phoksundo National Park – a destination that offers something for everyone! This place is a paradise for those who appreciate the beauty of nature and want to explore its diverse plant and animal species. And guess what? The park’s rich cultural heritage is a bonus that makes the experience even more unforgettable!
One of the best ways to explore this beautiful park is by taking the Phoksundo Lake Trek. This trek is a must-do, as it takes you through captivating forests, waterfalls, and meadows. The views along the way are breathtaking, especially the turquoise blue waters of Phoksundo Lake and the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. The trek is perfect for immersing yourself in the park’s natural beauty and discovering the region’s unique cultural heritage.
So, if you’re an adventure enthusiast looking for an exhilarating adventure, the Phoksundo Lake Trek should be on your bucket list. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to experience the beauty of nature and culture all in one place!
