Shey-Phoksundo National Park Voyage Tips and guide

Shey-Phoksundo National Park is a very scenic national park in the northwest of the Himalayas in Nepal.

Shey Phoksundo National Park is the largest national park in Nepal. It covers an area of 3,555 km² (1,373 sq mi) in the districts of Dolpa and Mugu in the Mid-Western Region, Nepal. The park's elevation varies from 2,130 m (6,990 ft) in the southeast near Ankhe to 6,883 m (22,582 ft) at the summit of Kanjiroba Himal at the southern edge of the Tibetan Plateau. The park provides sanctuary for many wild animals and also home to a wide variety of Himalayan herbs used in traditional medicine.

The park is named after Lake Phoksundo and was officially established in 1984 in order to further protect the cultural and religious significance of the region. Humans have inhabited this region for thousands of years. It declared a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance in 2007.

The main animal found in this park is the rare snow leopard (Panthera uncia), and other animals include jackals, wolves, foxes and langur monkeys. Other endangered species found in the park include the gray wolf, musk deer, blue sheep, goral, great Tibetan sheep, Himalayan tahr, leopard, and Himalayan black bear. Overall, 6 species of reptiles, 29 species of butterflies, and over 200 species of birds.

A study conducted by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation from 2019 to 2022, with the support of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), found 90 snow leopards.

It is a trans-Himalayan region, hence the climatic range of the park varies from monsoon dominating to the arid climate. The southern area receives more rainfall approx. 1,500 mm (59 in), while the northern, rain-shadowed region is arid, receiving less than 500 mm (20 in) annually. Temperatures can vary widely from below freezing in winter to mild 15–20 °C (59–68 °F) during summer days. Winters above 2,500 m (8,200 ft) have severely cold with frequent snowfall and above 3,000 m (9,800 ft) the temperature is below freezing. The best time to visit the park is from April to November.

• Park website^{[dead link]}

28.98583382.8191671 Dolpa Airport in the park's east is the most convenient way to enter the park, with flights from Nepalgunj by Nepal Airlines, Sita Air, Summit Air and Tara Air. From there, you'll need to do a half-day trek.

A park entry permit must be obtained to enter protected areas. Park entry fees may be paid at the Tourist Service Center, Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu, or at the entry points.

Map of Shey-Phoksundo National Park

• 29.282.9522221 Phoksundo Lake. A large freshwater alpine lake that has been designated as a Ramsar wetland site since 2007. The lake is an important site for both Buddhists and Tibetans at an elevation of 3,660 m (12,010 ft) in the upper reaches of the Suligad river. It is surrounded by glaciers and is known for its turquoise color. There are stupas found along the lake's south. The lake is up to 145 m (476 ft) deep.  (updated May 2022)
  • 29.15993782.9290482 Suligad Waterfalls (Phoksundo Waterfall). A 167 m (548 ft) waterfall with water flowing down from Phoksundo Lake. It is one of Nepal's tallest waterfalls.  (updated May 2022)
• 29.35282.8253 Shey Gompa. A Buddhist monastery that was established in the 11th century and continues to remain an important site for Tibetan Buddhists.  (updated May 2022)
• 29.391882.75284 Kanjiroba Himal. The highest mountain in Kanjiroba with an elevation of 6,883 m (22,582 ft).  (updated May 2022)

This national park is home to a few trails. Solo trekking and hiking is allowed to Ringmo and Phoksundo Lake.

• There is a restaurant in Lama Hotel and Lodge.

• 29.1697282.9360811 Lama Hotel and Lodge, ☏ +977 985-8390187. A hotel and a lodge that includes a restaurant, a bar, some horse riding activities.  (updated May 2022)

• Gradual acclimatization is essential to prevent serious altitude-related illnesses.
• Carry necessary medication for Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
• Do not ascend more than 500m per day.
• Trails can be narrow, rocky, and steep. Crossings may involve old, shaky bridges, and some areas are prone to landslides.
• Maintain a safe distance from wildlife and stay on marked trails.
• Use satellite phone or radio for help.
• Prepare for helicopter evacuation if needed.