Shey Phoksundo National Park · Travel guide · Updated 2026

Shey Phoksundo National Park: Nepal's Untamed Wilderness

Discover the pristine beauty of Shey Phoksundo National Park in Nepal, home to the stunning Phoksundo Lake, rare wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.

Shey Phoksundo National Park is a pristine natural sanctuary nestled in the remote Dolpa district of Nepal. Known for its stunning landscapes and biodiversity, it is home to the mesmerizing Phoksundo Lake, the deepest lake in Nepal. The park covers an area of 3,555 square kilometers, offering a rich tapestry of ecosystems ranging from subtropical forests to alpine meadows. The park is a haven for trekkers and nature lovers. The trails weave through rugged mountains, dense forests, and picturesque valleys, providing breathtaking views at every turn. Wildlife enthusiasts will be delighted by the chance to spot rare species such as the elusive snow leopard, the Himalayan blue sheep, and a variety of bird species. Cultural experiences are also abundant in Shey Phoksundo National Park. The park is home to ancient Buddhist monasteries and traditional Tibetan villages, where visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture. The unique Bonpo religion, which predates Buddhism, is still practiced here, adding a mystical element to the journey. Whether you are seeking adventure, peace, or a deeper connection with nature, Shey Phoksundo National Park offers an unforgettable experience. Its untouched beauty and serene environment make it a perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life.

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Practical planning

Shey Phoksundo National Park Essentials

Core city planning details in the same structured guide format used across the Country/Region page language.

How to Get There

Shey Phoksundo National Park is located in the Dolpa District of Nepal. The nearest airport is Juphal Airport, which is approximately 2.5 hours away by flight from Kathmandu. From Juphal, it is a trek of about 2 days to reach the park. Alternatively, you can take a bus or jeep from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, followed by a flight to Juphal.

Transportation

Within Shey Phoksundo National Park, transportation is primarily on foot. The rugged terrain and lack of roads make trekking the most viable option. Porters and yaks can be hired to carry your gear. For longer distances outside the park, local buses and jeeps are available but schedules can be unpredictable.

Currency and Payment

The official currency in Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). Credit cards are not widely accepted in the Dolpa District, so it is advisable to carry sufficient cash. ATMs are sparse and may not be reliable, so withdrawing cash in Kathmandu or Nepalgunj before embarking on your journey is recommended.

Safety

Shey Phoksundo National Park is generally safe for tourists. However, it is essential to take standard precautions, such as not trekking alone and keeping an eye on your belongings. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always advisable.

Emergency Situations

In case of emergency, contact the nearest park office or local authorities. It is crucial to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. For minor health issues, carry a basic first aid kit. The nearest medical facilities are in Dunai, the district headquarters of Dolpa.

Do's and Don'ts

Fashion: Do dress modestly and in layers to accommodate varying temperatures. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and religious sites. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or religious artifacts. Public Transport: Do be patient and flexible with schedules. Don't expect punctuality. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Namaste' and a slight bow. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods but be cautious with street food. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

Local Tips

To experience Shey Phoksundo National Park like a local, engage with the local communities and learn about their way of life. Participate in local festivals if your visit coincides with one. Visit the Phoksundo Lake and the ancient Shey Gompa monastery for a deeper cultural experience. Hiring a local guide can enhance your understanding of the area's history and culture.

History of Shey Phoksundo National Park

Follow the city from Roman Londinium to its modern global identity through landmark moments that still shape the visitor experience.

Introduction to Shey Phoksundo National Park

Established in 1984, Shey Phoksundo National Park is Nepal's largest national park, covering an area of 3,555 square kilometers. Located in the Dolpa and Mugu districts, the park is renowned for its scenic beauty, including the pristine Phoksundo Lake and the rugged peaks of the Kanjiroba Himal. The park is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the endangered snow leopard and the blue sheep.

Ancient Bon Religion

The Dolpo region, where Shey Phoksundo National Park is located, has been a stronghold of the ancient Bon religion. This spiritual tradition predates Buddhism and has left a significant cultural imprint on the area. Visitors can find numerous Bon religious sites, including shrines, monasteries, and chortens (stupas). The most notable is the Shey Gompa, a 12th-century monastery that remains a vital center for Bon practitioners.

Phoksundo Lake and Legend of Ringmo

Phoksundo Lake, situated at an altitude of 3,611 meters, is one of the most iconic features of the national park. The lake's striking turquoise blue color and clarity are attributed to its glacial origins. According to local legend, the village of Ringmo, located on the lake's southern shores, was once cursed by a demon. The villagers, in a bid to protect themselves, summoned a powerful Buddhist lama who successfully banished the demon into the lake, giving rise to its mystical qualities.

Tibetan Influence and Trade

The remote Dolpo region has a long history of Tibetan influence due to its proximity to the Tibetan plateau. This influence is evident in the local culture, architecture, and trade practices. Historically, Dolpo served as a crucial trade route where salt, wool, and barley were exchanged between Nepal and Tibet. The caravans of yaks and mules that traversed these rugged terrains were a common sight and played a vital role in sustaining the local economy.

Shey Phoksundo National Park in Modern Times

In the modern era, Shey Phoksundo National Park has gained recognition as a significant conservation area. The park's establishment in 1984 aimed to protect its unique ecosystems and cultural heritage. Efforts have been made to balance conservation with the needs of the indigenous communities, who rely on traditional practices for their livelihoods. The park is also a popular destination for trekkers and adventurers, drawn by its unspoiled landscapes and cultural richness.

Hollywood Spotlight: 'Himalaya' Film

Shey Phoksundo National Park gained international fame through the 1999 film 'Himalaya' (also known as 'Caravan'). The movie, directed by Eric Valli, was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. It showcases the breathtaking landscapes of the park and tells the story of a Dolpo village, highlighting their culture and the challenges they face. The film brought global attention to the region and its natural beauty.

Phrasebook

Local Phrases about Shey Phoksundo National Park

Browse practical local phrases by situation. Each group opens only when needed, keeping the guide tidy while preserving the full phrase set.

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Basics

Helloनमस्ते
[namaste]
Goodbyeफेरि भेटौं
[pheri bhetou]
Yesहो
[ho]
Noहोइन
[hoin]
Please/You're welcomeकृपया
[krupaya]
Thank youधन्यवाद
[dhanyabad]
Excuse me/Sorryमाफ गर्नुहोस्
[maaf garnuhos]
How are you?तपाईंलाई कस्तो छ?
[tapailai kasto chha?]
Fine. And you?ठिकै छ। तपाईंलाई?
[thikai chha. tapailai?]
Do you speak English?तिमी अंग्रेजी बोल्छौ?
[timi angreji bolchhau?]
I don't understandमलाई सम्झिन्छैन
[malai samjhinchain]

Eating & Drinking

I'd like to see the menu, pleaseकृपया मेनु हेर्न चाहन्छु
[krupaya menu hern chahanchu]
I don't eat meatम भांसिन कुरा खान्नु हुदैन
[ma bhasin kura khannu hudaina]
Cheers!शुभकामना!
[shubhakamana!]
I would like to pay, pleaseकृपया भुक्तानी गर्न चाहन्छु
[krupaya bhuktani garn chahanchu]

Emergencies

Help!मदद गर्नुहोस्!
[madad garnuhos!]
Go away!दूर हुनुहोस्!
[dur hunuhos!]
Call the Police!प्रहरीलाई बुझाउ!
[praharilai bujhaau!]
Call a doctor!डाक्टरलाई बुझाउ!
[daktarlai bujhaau!]
I'm lostमलाई हरायो
[malai harayo]
I'm illमलाई बिरामी छ
[malai birami chha]

Shopping

I'd like to buy...म खरिद गर्न चाहन्छु...
[ma kharid garn chahanchu...]
I'm just lookingम सिर्जना गरिरहेको छु
[ma sirjana gari raheko chu]
How much is it?यो कति पर्छ?
[yo kati parchh?]
That's too expensiveत्यो धेरै महँगो छ
[tyo dherai mahango chha]
Can you lower the price?तपाईं मुल्य कम गर्न सक्नुहुन्छ?
[tapailai mulya kam garn saknuhunchha?]

Time & Numbers

What time is it?कति बजेको छ?
[kati bajeko chha?]
It's one o'clockएक बजे छ
[ek baje chha]
Half past (10)दश बजे अर्धवटा
[dash baje ardhwata]
Morningबिहान
[bihan]
Afternoonदिउँसो
[diunso]
Eveningसाँझ
[sanh]
Yesterdayहिजो
[hijo]
Todayआज
[aaj]
Tomorrowभोलि
[bholi]
1एक
[ek]
2दुई
[dui]
3तीन
[tin]
4चार
[char]
5पाँच
[paanch]
6छ
[chha]
7सात
[saat]
8आठ
[aath]
9नौ
[nau]
10दस
[das]

Transport & Directions

Where's a/the...?कहाँ छ ...?
[kaha chha ...?]
What's the address?ठेगाना के हो?
[thegana ke ho?]
Can you show me (on the map)?तपाईं मलाई देखाउन सक्नुहुन्छ (नक्सामा)?
[tapailai malai dekhaun saknuhunchha (naksama)?]
When's the next (bus)?अर्को (बस) कहिले छ?
[arko (bas) kahile chha?]
A ticket (to ....)एक टिकट (सम्म ....)
[ek ticket (samma ....)]