Phoksundo Lake, nestled at 3,600m in Shey Phoksundo National Park, is Nepal’s deepest lake, spanning 4.94 square kilometers with a depth of 145m, Renowned for its striking turquoise-blue waters, the lake's vivid color is a result of its unique mineral composition. It is a centerpiece of the remote Dolpo region, combining breathtaking natural beauty with profound cultural significance.
The lake holds sacred importance for local Tibetan Buddhist communities and is surrounded by ancient monasteries and chortens. According to local legend, Phoksundo was formed when a demoness fled, triggering the collapse of a village that remains submerged beneath its waters. This story reflects the lake's deep connection to the cultural heritage of the region.
While the lake itself has no aquatic life due to its mineral-rich and oxygen-poor waters, the surrounding Shey Phoksundo National Park is a biodiversity haven. It is home to rare species like the elusive snow leopard, Himalayan blue sheep, and various medicinal plants, making it an ecological treasure.
Phoksundo Lake is a highlight of the Lower Dolpo Trek, offering trekkers awe-inspiring views of the Kanjirowa Himal range and an immersive journey into Nepal’s natural and cultural wealth. The nearby village of Ringmo, with its Bonpo monasteries, adds further spiritual and historical depth to the experience. However, reaching this remote gem is challenging, typically involving a flight to Juphal and several days of trekking through rugged terrain.
The best times to visit are during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when the weather is clear and moderate, ensuring stunning views and comfortable trekking conditions.
Highlights
The Phuksundo Lake Trek in the Dolpo region of Nepal is a truly unique and remote trekking experience. Here are some key highlights:
Unique Beauty of Phuksundo Lake: The turquoise Phuksundo Lake is the primary attraction. Surrounded by rugged mountains, it offers a serene and breathtaking view. The lake’s deep blue color is due to its high altitude and purity.
Remote and Isolated Region: Dolpo is one of the most isolated and least visited trekking regions in Nepal, which means trekkers get to experience a more authentic, untouched Nepalese lifestyle, far away from the crowded trails of popular trekking destinations.
Diverse Landscape: The trek features diverse landscapes, from lush green forests to dry, barren highlands. You’ll also pass through unique Tibetan-style villages, remote monasteries, and ancient stone walls.
Cultural Experience: The Dolpo region is home to the Dolpo people, who have Tibetan influences in their language, culture, and religion. You’ll have the chance to experience their unique way of life, including visiting monasteries like the Shey Gompa, an important Buddhist site.
Wildlife and Flora: Dolpo is part of the Shey Phoksundo National Park, which is home to endangered species like the snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, and blue sheep. The trek also offers glimpses of high-altitude flora, including alpine flowers and juniper trees.
Challenging Terrain: The trek involves walking at high altitudes (up to 4,800 meters), making it challenging. The trail includes steep ascents and descents, but the views and tranquility make the effort worthwhile.
Tibetan Buddhist Influence: Throughout the trek, you’ll come across mani walls, chortens, and prayer flags that are part of the region’s strong Tibetan Buddhist heritage. The interaction with local monks and villagers adds a spiritual dimension to the trek.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure: Since Dolpo is far from the more well-known trekking routes, this trek offers an adventure that few get to experience, making it ideal for those seeking solitude and a deeper connection to nature and culture.
Overall, the Phuksundo Lake Trek is a remote, culturally rich adventure that combines natural beauty, wildlife, and the opportunity to immerse oneself in the traditions of the Tibetan Buddhist community.
Outline Itinerary
- Day 01Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to Hotel.
- Day 02Free time in the morning and, fly to Nepalgunj in the afternoon.
- Day 03Nepalginj to Juhal flight early morning and trek to Dunai. 3-4hrs.
- Day 04Dunai to Chhepka 6-7 hrs.
- Day 05Chhepka to Samduwa or Jharna 6-7 hrs.
- Day 06Sunduwa to Rinmgo (Phoksundo）
- Day 07Rest day at Rinmgo（Phoksundo）
- Day 08Phoksundo to Chhepka
- Day 09Chepka to Juphal
- Day 10Juphal to Nepalgunj in the morning and flight to Kathmandu in the afternoon
- Day 11Reserve a day in Kathmandu if the flight is canceled due to bad weather.
- Day 12Free at leisure. Farewell dinner
- Day 13Transfer to the airport for departure.
Cost Details
Cost Includes
Airport/Hotel/Airport drops and picks up
Hotel 4 nights in Kathmandu (Bed and breakfast)
Hotel 1 night in Nepalgung (Bed and breakfast)
Kathmandu - Nepalgunj - Juphal and return from Juphal Nepalgunj - Kathmandu flight.
Meals during the trek 3 times (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
Shey Phoksundo national park permit
Lower Dolpa special permit.
Teahouse accommodation during the trek
Sightseeing in Kathmandu after the trek
Professional trekking guide
Assistant guide accourding to the group size
The required staff porters or "Khachar" to carry your luggage during the trek.
Insurance for Nepali staff
Food, accommodation, salary, insurance for guide, Sherpa, and Porters.
Government taxes
Farewell dinner
Cost Excludes
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj
Your travel insurance (compulsory)
International airfare
Nepal entry visa fee
Personal expenses, alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, mineral water, etc.
Personal trekking equipment
Any cost such as flight cancellation due to the bad weather.
Unexpected expenses like rescue and health emergency evacuation, etc.
Any other expenses which are not mentioned in the Price Include section.
Tips for trekking staff and drivers etc. Highly expected
