Shey Phoksundo National Park,Nepal

• Phoksundo Lake (turquoise, high-altitude lake and cultural focal point)
• Ringmo village (traditional village on the lake shore)
• Shey-Gompa and other remote monasteries
• Phoksundo Waterfall (spectacular drop below the lake)
• High mountain passes and panoramic Himalayan views
• Trans-Himalayan wildlife and birdwatching opportunities

• Striking turquoise glacial lake set in a deep valley
• Combination of stark trans-Himalayan landscapes and rich Tibetan-influenced culture
• Remote, lightly visited wilderness — strong sense of solitude
• Important habitat for rare high-altitude mammals and raptors

• Multi-day trekking (classic routes from Juphal or other local trailheads)
• Cultural visits to Ringmo and nearby monasteries; observe local rituals
• Wildlife and birdwatching (spotting likely species with patience)
• Photography of dramatic landscapes, lake and waterfalls
• Camping and high-altitude wilderness experiences

Best seasons: Spring (April–May) and Autumn (September–November) for stable weather, clearer skies and trekking conditions. Summer monsoon brings snow and trail difficulty at higher passes; winter is cold with heavy snow and limited access.

Alpine to trans-Himalayan climate: cold at high elevation, large diurnal temperature swings, possible snow at any time above high passes. Prepare for wind, strong sun and rapid weather changes.

Permits required: Entry to the national park and travel in parts of Dolpa/Mugu may require permits (park entry permit, and in some zones a restricted-area permit). Fees and permit procedures change — arrange through the Department of National Parks, local conservation offices or a licensed trekking agency before travel. The park itself is accessible year-round but many routes are seasonal.

How to get there: Typical access via flights from Kathmandu or Pokhara to Nepalgunj, then a domestic flight to Juphal (Dolpa) or to nearby airstrips depending on itinerary; from local airstrips a multi-day trek is required to reach core attractions. Overland approaches exist but are long and challenging. Expect remote, rugged trails and limited services; plan logistics with an experienced local operator.

Suggested stay: 7–14 days for a basic Phoksundo trekking circuit (longer if adding approaches, acclimatization or extended exploration).

Pack essentials: Layered clothing (base, insulating and windproof outer layers), good insulated sleeping bag, sturdy trekking boots, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen), trekking poles, personal first-aid and altitude-sickness precautions. Water purification and warm camp clothing are advisable.

Local cuisine: Tibetan-influenced foods such as tsampa, momos, butter tea, yak cheese and simple dal-bhat in teahouses. Souvenirs: Handwoven woolen goods, yak products and locally made crafts — buy respectfully and ask about cultural significance.