Discover the Turquoise Gem of the Himalayas

Phoksundo Lake, nestled in the heart of Dolpa, is a breathtaking natural wonder known for its mesmerizing turquoise waters and serene surroundings. A sacred site for locals and a paradise for trekkers, it’s a must-visit for those seeking adventure, tranquility, and a deep connection with nature

History & Significance

Suligad Waterfall 💦

Suligad Waterfall 💦

One of Nepal’s highest waterfalls (~167m), located at the lake’s outlet.Perfect for photography and...
Serenity Amidst the Peaks

Serenity Amidst the Peaks

...
The Turquoise Gem of the Himalayas

The Turquoise Gem of the Himalayas

...

Phoksundo Lake was formed thousands of years ago, shaped by glacial activity and natural forces. According to local legend, the lake was created when a demoness flooded a village, and its turquoise waters are said to reflect the sky and mountains.
The lake holds deep spiritual importance for the local people, who consider it a sacred site. It is often visited by pilgrims and spiritual seekers for meditation and reflection.
Phoksundo Lake is central to the culture of Dolpa, featuring in local folklore, songs, and rituals. The surrounding area is dotted with prayer flags and mani walls, adding to its spiritual ambiance.
Located within Shey Phoksundo National Park, the lake is part of a protected area home to rare wildlife like snow leopards, blue sheep, and Himalayan black bears. Its pristine ecosystem is a treasure for conservationists and nature lovers.

Rigmo village ( Phoksundo Lake)

Gallery of Phoksundo Lake

How to Reach Phoksundo Lake

Fly Kathmandu → Nepalgunj (50 min)
2️⃣ Fly Nepalgunj → Jufal Airport, Dolpo (45 min)
3️⃣ Drive Jufal → Dunai (1-hour jeep ride)
4️⃣ Trek Dunai → Phoksundo Lake (2-3 days)

🌿 Enjoy breathtaking trails, charming villages, and the raw beauty of Dolpa along the way!

1️⃣ Kathmandu → Nepalgunj (Bus or Flight)
2️⃣ Nepalgunj → Surkhet (Road journey)
3️⃣ Surkhet → Jajarkot → Rukum (Scenic mountain drive)
4️⃣ Drive to Tripurakot or Dunai (Trek starting point)
5️⃣ Trek to Phoksundo Lake (2-4 days, depending on route & pace)

🌿 Embark on an adventurous road trip through Nepal’s remote landscapes, crossing picturesque villages before trekking into the untouched beauty of Dolpa!

🛫 By Air + Trek

📍 Kathmandu → Flight (50 min) → Nepalgunj
📍 Nepalgunj → Flight (45 min) → Juphal Airport
🚶 Trek from Juphal → Dunai (~2 hrs)
🚶 Dunai → Phoksundo Lake (~4-5 days)

🚌 By Road + Trek

📍 Kathmandu → Bus (12-14 hrs) → Nepalgunj
📍 Nepalgunj → Bus (10-12 hrs) → Jajarkot → Tribeni
🚶 Trek from Tribeni → Tripurakot (~1 hr)
🚶 Trek from Tripurakot → Phoksundo (~4-5 days)

🏍️ By Bike (Off-road Adventure)

📍 Kathmandu → Bike (~12-14 hrs) → Surkhet
📍 Surkhet → Jajarkot → Dunai (~10-12 hrs, rough terrain)
📍 Dunai → Tripurakot (~2 hrs ride)
🚶 Trek from Tripurakot → Phoksundo (~2-3 days)

Nearby Attractions

Ringmo Village 🏡

Ringmo Village 🏡

A traditional Bon village near Phoksundo Lake. Great for exploring local culture and traditions...
Shey Gompa Monastery 🏯

Shey Gompa Monastery 🏯

A sacred Buddhist monastery, around 2 days’ trek from Phoksundo Lake. A peaceful retreat with...
Shey Phoksundo National Park 🌿

Shey Phoksundo National Park 🌿

Nepal’s largest national park, home to snow leopards and Himalayan blue sheep. Ideal for trekking...

🎫 Phoksundo Lake Trek Permits & Entry Fees

Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit

📜 Required for: Entry into Shey Phoksundo National Park
💰 Cost:

  • Foreigners: 3,390 NPR (~USD $34) (3,000 NPR + 13% VAT)
  • SAARC Nationals: 1,500 NPR
    📍 Where to get it? Nepal Tourism Board Office, Kathmandu
TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System

📜 Required for: Trekking registration (currently on hold)
💰 Cost:

  • Foreigners & SAARC Nationals: 1,000 NPR (~USD $10)
    📍 Where to get it? Nepal Tourism Board Office, Kathmandu (currently unavailable due to technical issues)
Restricted Area Permit (RAP) for Dolpo Region (For Foreigners Only)

 

📜 Required for: Trekking in Dolpo (a restricted area)
💰 Cost: Varies based on trekking route and duration
📍 Where to get it? Nepal Immigration Office, Kathmandu

Where to Buy These Permits?

✅ Nepal Tourism Board, Kathmandu
✅ Authorized Trekking Agencies

📌 Pro Tip: Get your permits in Kathmandu before traveling to Dolpo, as there are limited options locally.

Address

Shey Phoksundo National park 
Dolpa District, Nepal

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