The magical spell of Shey Phoksundo Lake

• Sushant Lama

Perhaps you might be utterly flabbergasted or find yourself in the grip of mystical and magical spell of Shey Phoksundo Lake if you have ever been to it. If you haven’t, think of it. You will feel as if you have landed in a fairyland or a paradise beyond human descriptions.

Shey Phoksundo Lake is the deepest lake of Nepal located in Shey Phoksundo Park situated at an altitude of 3,611.5 m above sea level in the Dolpa district. With an area of 1.91 sq. miles and the maximum depth of 145 m, Shey Phoksundo Lake was declared a Ramsar site in September 2007.

The beauty of Shey Phoksundo Lake cannot be described in words. So, experience it yourself. Surrounded by green hills, rugged landscapes and snowcapped mountains on all sides makes it one of the best lakes you will see in Nepal.

Kaushal Pokhrel describes the Shey Phoksundo Lake as, “Magical, peaceful, nature hub, awesome climate, memorable trek, good hotels, welcoming people, awesome views, religious places. What else would you look for?”

Since it lies in the remote areas of Nepal, Its natural beauty is well preserved in its pristine conditions. The picturesque view after reaching on the top of the hill beside the lake will certainly spellbound you.

Along with the exotic views of the surrounding snowcapped peaks, the deep blue color of water you will see is truly amazing and is definitely going to leave a beautiful mark in your heart.

Due to its location in Shey Phoksundo National Park, Nepal’s largest national park, varieties of endangered flora, fauna, birds, and insects can also be seen around the area.

Kuno Paulus who visited the lake writes, “Beautiful Lake in amazing surroundings.”

Not only in natural beauty, but Shey Phoksundo Lake is also rich in Cultural beauty too. Peoples of Tibetan origin reside in these areas and mostly exhibits Tibetan Buddhism. They are one of the most humble and welcoming people.

There is the presence of a village, Ringmo, on the lake’s southern end which sits on 30,000- to -40,000-year-old landslide dam which formed the lake.

Many stupas and religious flyers can be seen around the Ringmo village which is heart-warming to watch. Tibetan styled houses, Tibetan culture, traditions, lifestyles can be observed closely around the lake

There is the presence of Tshowa Monastery on the eastern side of the Lake where various rituals and worships are carried out.

One of the travelers from Nepal, Basanta Neupane says,” The stay in the area was great. I visited this place around August/ September. It must be the time of the year I visited as well that added greatness to my experience. Awesome people around, helpful and always welcoming tourists. A must visit. The atmosphere around was great.”

Along with natural and cultural significance, Shey Phoksundo Lake carries religious values too. It is considered to be a holy place by the Buddhists living in the Dolpa and the surrounding region. Hence one is not allowed to soak in the aquamarine water of the Lake.

Food and Accommodation

If you are visiting Shey Phoksundo Lake, then you don’t have to worry about food and accommodation. Lots of small tea-houses and hotels can be found on the way to the lake. Local foods are available which are very delicious.

Ramu Kunwar says, ” Truly paradise of Nepal. When you trek there, you’ll find fresh air, pure natural water, the sounds of the river, the sound of a horse walking through the trails, the people are very kind and helpful. I’ll recommend lightweight trekking shoes because you need to walk more than two days.”

Best Time

The best season to visit Shey Phoksundo Lake is during the spring and autumn season for favorable weather and a natural environment.

How can you reach there?

There are regular flights from Kathmandu to Juphal via Nepalgunj. And from Juphal you have to trek all the way to Shey Phoksundo Lake which is an adventure of a lifetime.