Phoksundo Lake, Alpine lake in Dolpa District, Nepal.
Phoksundo Lake is an alpine lake in Dolpa District that spreads across 494 hectares at an elevation of 3,612 meters (11,860 feet). Its water displays an intense turquoise color, framed by towering mountains that form the dramatic shoreline.
The lake formed through a landslide approximately 30,000 to 40,000 years ago that created a natural dam. This event blocked water flow and gradually shaped the body of water that exists today.
Twenty stupas line the southern shore, serving as sacred sites where Buddhist pilgrims and visitors pay their respects. The monastery on the eastern side hosts ceremonies that reflect the deep spiritual traditions of the region.
Visitors need permits to enter Shey Phoksundo National Park and should plan their trip for spring or autumn for the best trekking conditions. These seasons offer comfortable weather and stable mountain trails for exploration.
Measurements from 2004 revealed that the water reaches depths of approximately 145 meters, making it one of the deepest lakes in Nepal. This remarkable depth is often overlooked by visitors despite being a defining characteristic of the site.
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