About Phoksundo Lake Trek
Experience an unforgettable journey to Phoksundo Lake, one of Nepal’s most beautiful and remote destinations. The trek takes you to the crystal-clear Phoksundo Lake, the deepest and second-largest lake in Nepal, surrounded by stunning mountains and untouched wilderness. Along the way, you walk through peaceful forests before Chhepka and Saijol; pass traditional villages like Rechi and Ringmo, and see the unique culture of the Dolpo region.
Beyond The Limit Treks guides you through the incredible adventure and helps you explore its natural beauty and cultural richness, ensuring your Phoksundo trek is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable.
Overview of the Phoksundo Lake Trek:
Phoksundo Lake Trek is a remarkable journey into the heart of Nepal’s Dolpo region. With breathtaking views of Phoksundo Lake situated at an altitude of 3611 meters, the trek offers you a chance to explore the rich culture of the local communities. The lake, known for its bright turquoise color, is considered sacred by both Buddhists and followers of the ancient Bon religion. The trek takes you through remote villages like Ringmo, where you can experience traditional Tibetan customs and warm hospitality.
Far from the crowded trekking routes, Phoksundo Lake offers solitude and a deeper connection to nature. The unique combination of serene landscapes and rich traditions makes the Shey Phoksundo Lake trek an unforgettable adventure beyond the usual trekking routes in Nepal.
Phoksundo Lake
Phuksumdo ( original name ) and Phoksundo ( official name ) have many mythical stories about its formation for example the stories of water, and oil bowls carried by a demon story. Still, scientifically it is formed by the flow of glacier water coming from the north collected by the formation of rockslides deposit natural dam in the south. Phoksundo Lake is famous for its magnificent turquoise color, and color-changing lake, and it is the 2nd deepest (145m) lake of Nepal after Rara Lake. It is located at an elevation of 3611.5m(11,849 ft ) in Shey-Phoksundo National Park, Dolpa District. The lake is 494ha(1.91 sq mi ) in size and is designated as a Ramsar site on 23rd September 2007. On the lake's southern end, the village Ringmo sits on the 30,000-40,000 years old landslide dam that forms the lake, and past the dam, the waters of the lake plunge over a 167m(548 ft ) tall waterfall known as Phoksundo waterfall. The interesting part of the lake is that it has no animal life at all.
An alternative mode of Transportation to do the Phoksundo Trek:
The itinerary we have provided below is one of the ways, we can use an alternative mode of transportation to do the Phoksundo Trek Phoksundo Lake trek. The flight to Dolpo (Juphal) is not always granted because of weather conditions and various other factors so in case there is no flight to Dolpo there is an alternative way which is through the roadway. We will take a morning flight to Nepalgunj and take a Jeep from there to "Tallo Bahar" on the same day, It will take about 8 hours to Tallo Bahar and we will stay overnight there. The next morning wake up early and have breakfast continue driving passing Jajarkot, Rukum to Sulighat where driving ends. The walking begins from Sulighat for the Phoksundo Lake trek. In this way, we can make up the days we have if there is a flight cancellation. However, the cost of the jeep is similar to the flight fare. (Important Note this price and service are calculated based on two clients, if your Group size is bigger please Talk with our expert).
What is Special About Phoksundo Trek?
The Phoksundo Lake Trek offers a rare combination of stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a peaceful atmosphere far from the busy trekking routes. It leads you through the remote Dolpo region, allowing you to explore pristine landscapes and experience the traditional lifestyles of the local people to full extent.
With its untouched wilderness and sacred sites, the trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake provides a deep connection to both nature and culture.
Deepest Lake of Nepal
Phoksundo Lake is Nepal’s deepest and second-largest lake, with a depth of 145 meters and a length of 4.8 kilometers. Its mesmerizing turquoise color, set against dramatic cliffs and snow-capped peaks, creates a breathtaking scene. It is visually stunning and holds deep spiritual significance for Buddhists and followers of the Bon religion, making it a place of pilgrimage.
Rich Cultural Experience
The Phoksundo Trek gives you a rare chance to experience Tibetan-influenced culture in the Dolpo region. The village of Ringmo, located near Phoksundo Lake, provides insight into the ancient Bonpo religion, a pre-Buddhist belief system still practiced by the local people. Along the way, you visit Tshowa Gompa, a 900-year-old Bon monastery perched on a cliff above the lake which was actually built to protect wildlife from poachers when animals come to the lake to drink water. It allows trekkers to see how ancient traditions have been preserved in this remote part of Nepal.
Remote and Uncrowded Trails
The Phoksundo trek is one of the most remote treks in Nepal, far from crowded routes like Everest or Annapurna. With fewer trekkers on the trail, the region allows for an intimate connection with nature. The trek also passes through the Shey Phoksundo National Park, Nepal’s largest national park, which is home to diverse wildlife, including the elusive snow leopard, blue sheep, and Himalayan wolves. Local tourists are more seen in this place than foreigners.
Diverse Landscapes
Trekking in Shey Phoksundo features a stunning variety of landscapes, ranging from lush forests of birch and pine to high-altitude meadows and barren, rocky cliffs. You walk through the Suligad River Valley, cedar forests, and alpine meadows, with every turn revealing a new and captivating view. The 330-meter-high Jharana Waterfall, one of Nepal’s highest waterfalls, is another striking feature along the route.
Sacred Sites and Spiritual Significance
Phoksundo Lake and the surrounding area are considered sacred by both Buddhists and Bonpo followers. The lake is believed to house an underwater palace and is central to local religious practices. The Tshowa Gompa monastery adds a deep spiritual element to the trek, connecting trekkers to Nepal’s ancient religious roots. The blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance makes the Shey Phoksundo trek not only a physical journey but also a profoundly reflective and meaningful experience.
Difficulties of Shey Phoksundo Lake Trekking:
Shey Phoksundo Lake Trekking is a moderate to challenging trek that requires a good level of fitness and preparation. While the trek does not involve technical climbing, the remote location, high altitude, and varying terrain present some challenges that trekkers should be prepared for. Understanding Shey Phoksundo trek difficulties and challenges helps you ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience.
Remote and Isolated Location
One of the main challenges is the trek’s remote location. The Dolpo region is isolated from major cities and lacks modern infrastructure. Trekkers must be prepared for limited access to medical facilities, communication, and transportation.
High Altitude
The trek reaches altitudes of up to 3,611 meters at Phoksundo Lake. At these heights, the air is thinner, and there is a risk of altitude sickness. Proper acclimatization, slow ascent, and staying hydrated are crucial to managing altitude-related difficulties.
Long and Strenuous Walking Days
On average, trekkers walk between 5 to 7 hours each day over uneven and rocky terrain. Some sections of the trail are steep and challenging, requiring physical endurance and mental stamina.
Unpredictable Weather
The weather in the Dolpo region can be unpredictable. Even during the best trekking seasons, conditions may change rapidly, with the possibility of rain, snow, or strong winds. Trekkers should be well-prepared with appropriate clothing and gear for these weather changes.
Lack of Emergency Services
Due to the remote nature of the trek, emergency services such as helicopter rescues or immediate medical help are limited. You must trek with a professional guide and ensure you have proper travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and evacuations.
Beyond The Limit Treks provides experienced guides who are well-trained in safety protocols and know how to handle emergencies. Our team ensures your safety throughout the trek and is equipped to assist with any issues that may arise during your journey. Contact us for more details!
Best Time for Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek:
The best time to trek to Shey Phoksundo is during the spring and autumn seasons when the weather is stable, and the trails are at their most beautiful. Trekking during these months ensures clearer skies, moderate temperatures, and stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
- Spring (March to May): Mild temperatures, blooming rhododendrons, and clear skies make it ideal for trekking.
- Autumn (September to November): Perfect for trekking with clear skies, vibrant landscapes, and unobstructed mountain views.
- Winter (December to February): Challenging due to cold temperatures and snow, suitable for experienced trekkers.
- Monsoon (June to August): Heavy rains make trails slippery and visibility poor, making it the least favorable time to trek.
Accommodation and Meals:
During the Phoksundo Lake Trek, accommodation and meals are basic but comfortable, providing a true life experience in Nepal’s remote regions. Along the route, trekkers stay in small teahouses or guesthouses run by local families. These accommodations offer simple rooms with basic facilities, often shared with other trekkers.
Meals typically consist of traditional Nepali food such as dal bhat (rice with lentils), vegetables, and eggs. You may also find basic international dishes like noodles or fried rice in some places. While the food options are limited, the meals are nutritious and designed to keep you energized throughout the trek.
Choosing BTLT for Phoksundo Lake Trek:
The Phoksundo Lake Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure through Nepal’s remote and untouched landscapes. With its stunning natural beauty, unique cultural experiences, and the challenge of trekking through rugged terrain, the trek is a perfect choice to explore one of the most pristine areas in the Himalayas.
Beyond The Limit Treks (BTLT) prioritizes your safety, comfort, and overall experience. Our experienced guides ensure you are well-prepared and supported throughout the journey, providing expert knowledge of the region and its culture. With our attention to detail and commitment to responsible tourism, BTLT guarantees a memorable and enriching trek to Shey Phoksundo.
Contact us to make your trek to Shey Phoksundo Lake memorable.
