Shey-Phoksundo National Park
Shey-Phoksundo National Park protects a vast high-Himalayan landscape across Dolpa and Mugu, including the intensely turquoise Phoksundo Lake. It is Nepal's largest national park and one of its most remote trekking environments.
Few places in Nepal feel as isolated or visually distinct as Dolpo. Phoksundo's blue water, dry high valleys, Tibetan-influenced villages, monasteries and wildlife habitat create a journey very different from Everest or Annapurna.
Best time to visit: Late spring and autumn are generally the strongest trekking windows. Winters are severe at altitude, while weather and transport during the monsoon can make remote access less predictable.
Getting there: Most Phoksundo itineraries enter Dolpa through a combination of domestic flights or long overland travel, then continue on foot for several days. Longer Upper Dolpo routes require additional planning and may involve restricted-area permits.
Recommended stay: 7–12 days for a Phoksundo-focused trip; longer for extended Dolpo routes.
Confirm current park, trekking and restricted-area permit requirements before booking transport.
Carry a conservative cash, power and medication reserve because services are sparse.
Build weather days into flight-dependent itineraries.
Common questions
Is Phoksundo Lake inside Shey-Phoksundo National Park?
Yes. Phoksundo Lake is one of the park's defining attractions and lies within the protected area in Dolpa.
Is Shey-Phoksundo Nepal's largest national park?
Yes. Nepal's Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation lists Shey-Phoksundo as the country's largest national park, covering about 3,555 square kilometres.