Phoksundo Lake: Turquoise Jewel of Nepal
Phoksundo Lake is a stunning turquoise lake located in the remote Dolpa district of western Nepal. Sitting high at about 3,600 meters, it is one of the deepest and clearest lakes in Nepal. The lake is shaped like a unique "Y" and is fed by the waters from the Kanjirowa and Sagar Himalayas. It is surrounded by snowy mountains and ancient Buddhist monasteries, and Phoksundo offers a peaceful and magical atmosphere.
Locals consider the lake sacred, and it holds spiritual importance in both Bonpo and Buddhist traditions. Phoksundo Lake lies far west in Nepal, away from crowded trekking spots like Everest Base Camp, making it perfect for those seeking quiet natural beauty. Let’s explore this turquoise jewel step by step.
Curious about where Phoksundo Lake is located? Come dive into the far west away from everest region with Dolpo Caravan on your adventure to Phoksundo Lake.
Quick Facts About Phoksundo Lake
Phoksundo Lake is Nepal’s deepest lake, located in Dolpa District inside Shey Phoksundo National Park, at 3,611 meters above sea level.
- Location: Dolpa District, Karnali Province, Nepal
- Height: 3,611 meters (11,849 feet) above sea level
- Size: About 5 square kilometers (almost 2 square miles)
- Depth: 145 meters (476 feet) - the deepest lake in Nepal
- Inside: Shey Phoksundo National Park
- Water: Clear, fresh water, very clean and pure
- Special Feature: Nepal’s tallest waterfall (167 meters / 548 feet) at the lake’s south side
- Culture: Nearby villages and monasteries follow Tibetan Buddhist and Bon traditions
- Protected: Recognized internationally for importance as a wetland (Ramsar Site)
- Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November
Phoksundo Lake Location
Phoksundo Lake sits in Shey Phoksundo National Park, about 200km from Kathmandu as the crow flies, but the real adventure starts with the journey. On a map of Nepal, look to the northwest: it's in Dolpa District, near the Tibetan border, at a stunning Phoksundo Lake altitude of 3,611 meters (11,844 feet). This high spot means crisp air and epic panoramas, but pack layers for chilly nights.
For trekkers like you, knowing where Phoksundo Lake is located helps plan your route. It's not near Rara National Park (Nepal's other famous lake spot, further west), but both showcase the country's wild beauty.
Our travel team has explored the Dolpo trails for over a decade, working closely with local guides from Ringmo village to ensure authentic, safe, and eco-friendly experiences for every traveler.
Tip: Use Google Maps to visualize Phoksundo Lake from Kathmandu, which feels worlds away, yet it's doable in 7-12 days. No more guessing; we've guided hundreds here safely.
Want to visit Phoksundo Lake? Explore our Phoksundo Bon Cultural Trek
What Is the Other Name of Phoksundo Lake?
Locals call it "Shey Phoksundo Lake", named after the nearby Shey Gompa monastery, a sacred Bon Buddhist site. This other name hints at its spiritual roots, where legends say the lake's colors come from a demon's defeat.
Phoksundo Lake is also known as Ringmo Lake because the village of Ringmo is situated on its banks, and many people refer to the lake by the name of the nearby village. The lake is surrounded by tall snowy mountains, including the Kanjirowa Himal to the west and Norbung Kang to the south, and dotted with old Buddhist monasteries, creating a peaceful and magical feeling.
Phoksundo Lake also gained fame as the filming location for the movie "Caravan", which showcased its mesmerizing beauty to a wider audience.
How to Reach Phoksundo Lake from Kathmandu by Flight & Road
Getting to Phoksundo Lake takes effort, but that's part of the excitement. The Kathmandu to Phoksundo Lake distance is around 650km by road and flight combo, taking 1-2 days total.
Here's a simple solution-based guide for you:
- Fly to Juphal: Start with a 45-minute flight from Kathmandu to Jufal Airport (book via Dolpo Caravan to avoid sold-out seats). It is scenic and skips rough roads.
- Trek In: From Jufal, hike 3-4 days through forests and villages to Phoksundo Lake. Total trek: 7-10 days round trip.
- How to Reach Phoksundo Lake by Road? If flying isn't your thing, take a bus from Kathmandu to Dunai (18-20 hours, NPR 1,500-2,000), then a jeep to the trailhead. But roads are bumpy, our jeeps with expert drivers make it comfy and safe.
Pro tip: Weather can close flights, so build in buffer days. We solve this with flexible itineraries and backup plans, ensuring you reach Phoksundo Lake without stress.
The best time to visit Phoksundo Lake is from April to October, when the weather is clear and trails are open. You’ll need a Shey Phoksundo National Park permit and a Lower Dolpo trekking permit.
Want to experience Dolpo Region without stress? Our travel experts can help you plan your Phoksundo Lake trek from permits to local guides. Contact us today!
Phoksundo Lake Depth and Altitude
Phoksundo Lake is very deep, about 145 meters (476 feet), making it one of the deepest lakes in Nepal. It is clear, bright turquoise water reflects colorful prayer flags and sharp mountain peaks, creating a magical view. The trek has some moderate climbs and descents of about 500 meters. Remember, at this high altitude, altitude sickness can happen, so it’s important to drink plenty of water and take time to adjust to the height.
Compared to Rara Lake (deeper but farther), Phoksundo Lake feels more intimate. Our guides, with 15+ years in Dolpa, monitor your health and share remedies like ginger tea for nausea. No more worrying about the unknown, we've got your back. Book with Dolpo Caravan as we focus on sustainable paths that leave no trace!
If you want a more challening trek then you can go on our Upper Dolpo or Lower Dolpo Trek depending on your schedule
Travel Tips for Visiting Phoksundo Lake
- Carry cash; ATMs are rare after Dunai.
- Get both Shey Phoksundo and Lower Dolpo permits early.
- For altitude safety, spend a rest day in Ringmo.
- Hire local porters; it supports Dolpo’s economy and ensures safe trekking.
- Don’t miss the side trip to Shey Gompa Monastery.
Final Thoughts
Phoksundo Lake offers stunning views of clear turquoise water surrounded by snowy mountains and ancient Buddhist culture. The trek is peaceful and special, located deep in Nepal’s remote Dolpo region. It is moderately hard, great for anyone ready to explore nature and old traditions far from busy places.
This journey is more than a hike. It is a chance to feel the calm, sacred spirit of the Dolpo area. Whether you love nature, photography, or spiritual travel, Phoksundo Lake gives you a memorable and life-changing experience.
Nepal is a country filled with multiple adventure and one of the best places to go on treks. If you want to see one of Nepal’s most beautiful and magical lakes, the Phoksundo Lake Trek is a perfect choice.
Ready to stand before Nepal’s bluest lake? Let us craft your Phoksundo Lake trek where nature’s silence and spirituality meet. Start your Dolpo journey today!
All About Dolpo
Dolpo Region | Dolpo History | Dolpo Himalaya | Dolpo Geography | Dolpo People & Ethnic Groups | Dolpo Flora & Fauna | Bon Religion in Dolpo | Shey Festival | Shey Gompa | Shey Phoksundo National Park | Dolpo Yarsagumba | Dolpo Caravan Trade
Popular Dolpo Trekking Packages
Upper Dolpo Trek | Lower Dolpo Trek | Beni Dolpo Trek | Phoksundo Lake Tea House Trek | Phoksundo Bon Cultural Trek | Mugu Dolpo Trek | Jumla Kagmara Dho Tarap Culinary Trek
FAQs
Where is Phoksundo Lake located?
Phoksundo Lake is in the Dolpo region of western Nepal, inside Shey-Phoksundo National Park at an elevation of about 3,611 meters. This spot is surrounded by rugged mountains and traditional villages, making it a peaceful place for nature lovers. It's a key part of Nepal's protected areas for wildlife and culture.
How do I get to Phoksundo Lake?
You can get to Phoksundo Lake by flying from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj or Jumla and then trekking for a few days. Another option is taking a bus to Dunai and continuing by jeep and hike. Booking a guided package makes the trip easier by handling flights and permits.
How deep is Shey Phoksundo Lake?
Shey Phoksundo Lake is about 145 meters deep, which gives it that beautiful turquoise color from the clear water. This depth makes it one of Nepal's most impressive lakes, formed by glaciers in the mountains. It's a popular spot for people who enjoy exploring natural wonders.
Which is the deepest lake in Nepal?
Shey Phoksundo Lake is the deepest in Nepal at around 145 meters, beating out others like Rara Lake in depth. Even though some lakes are bigger in size, Phoksundo stands out for its impressive depth in the Himalayan region. This fact draws many visitors interested in Nepal's geography.
What is the other name of Phoksundo Lake?
The other name of Phoksundo Lake is Shey Phoksundo Lake, which comes from the nearby Shey Gompa and its Bon Buddhist roots. This name highlights the lake's spiritual importance in the area. It's often used in travel guides to connect it with the local culture.
How far is the Kathmandu to Phoksundo Lake distance?
The distance from Kathmandu to Phoksundo Lake is about 200 kilometers, but the actual trip takes 1-2 days because of flights and trekking. This remote location adds to the adventure, so using packages can simplify things with direct bookings. It's a journey that shows off Nepal's diverse landscapes.
How to reach Phoksundo Lake by road from Kathmandu?
You can reach Phoksundo Lake by road from Kathmandu by taking a bus to Dunai, which takes 18-20 hours, and then a jeep to the trailhead for a short hike. The roads can be rough, so choose reliable transport for safety and comfort, like options with stops for breaks. This route is a good way to see the countryside before the trek.
How does Phoksundo Lake compare to Rara National Park?
Phoksundo Lake is deeper and more remote in Dolpa, so the treks there are quieter and peaceful, with many cultural places to visit. Rara National Park in Mugu has a bigger lake, but more people go there. Both places have amazing mountain views, but Phoksundo feels calmer and private. If you want to visit both lakes, you can take a multi-lake tour for a complete experience.
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