Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas lies Shey Phoksundo National Park, one of Nepal’s most breathtaking and pristine natural wonders. Located in Dolpa District, this park is renowned for its stunning landscapes, wildlife, and the sacred Phoksundo Lake, making it an exceptional destination for nature lovers and trekkers alike. Whether you are planning a Shey Phoksundo National Park tour, a trek to Phoksundo Lake, or a guided exploration of the area, understanding the costs, itinerary, and logistical details is crucial for a successful adventure.
In this detailed guide, we will cover everything you need to know about Shey Phoksundo National Park, including tour pricing, the trek itinerary, cost breakdowns for Nepali and international trekkers, and practical advice on how to navigate this majestic park.
Shey Phoksundo National Park is the largest national park in Nepal’s mid-western region. It is famous for its diverse ecosystems, which range from tropical forests to high-altitude deserts, and is home to rare wildlife species like the Himalayan blue sheep, snow leopard, and Danphe (the Himalayan Monal). At the heart of the park is the sacred Phoksundo Lake, a turquoise-colored body of water that draws trekkers from around the world.
Location: Dolpa District, Northwestern Nepal
Area: 3,555 square kilometers
Elevation: The park ranges from 2,000 meters to 6,884 meters above sea level.
Main Attraction: Phoksundo Lake and the surrounding landscapes
The cost of a Shey Phoksundo National Park tour can vary depending on several factors, including the type of trek, the duration of the trip, whether you hire a guide, and the time of year you visit. Below is a breakdown of the general costs associated with visiting the park.
For International Trekkers:
Permits: The Conservation Area Permit (CAP) is approximately NPR 2,000 per person for international visitors.
Trekking Fees: On top of permits, you may need to pay park entrance fees which are generally about NPR 300 per day.
Guide Fees: Hiring a local guide costs between NPR 2,000 to 4,000 per day. A guide is recommended, as it enhances the trekking experience by providing valuable insight into the area’s culture and geography.
Porter Fees: Hiring a porter to carry your bag typically costs NPR 1,500 to 2,000 per day.
For Nepali Trekkers:
Permits: Local trekkers need the same Conservation Area Permit (CAP) but at a reduced rate, around NPR 1,000.
Guide and Porter: Guide and porter fees are generally more affordable for Nepali trekkers, but prices still hover around NPR 1,500 to 2,000 per day for a guide.
Transportation: The Shey Phoksundo trek by bus from Kathmandu to Juphal costs approximately NPR 3,000 to 5,000 for a one-way ticket.
Accommodations: Tea houses and local guesthouses are available along the trek, with nightly rates ranging from NPR 500 to 1,500, depending on location and season.
A typical Shey Phoksundo Trek lasts about 5 days. The trek covers stunning landscapes, remote villages, and a variety of ecosystems before reaching the pristine Phoksundo Lake. Here’s a breakdown of a 5-day trek itinerary:
Travel: Begin your journey with a flight or bus from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj.
Accommodation: Stay overnight in Nepalgunj.
Flight: Take a short flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal (about 30 minutes).
Trek: From Juphal, begin your trek towards Dunai (the district capital of Dolpa).
Accommodation: Stay in a local guesthouse or tea house.
Trek: Trek through dense forests of pine and fir trees as you make your way to Chhepka.
Accommodation: Overnight stay in Chhepka.
Trek: Hike through scenic landscapes and cross gorges and streams. Arrive at the beautiful Phoksundo Lake.
Accommodation: Overnight stay near the lake.
Trek: After enjoying the stunning views of the lake, return to Juphal and take a flight back to Nepalgunj. From Nepalgunj, take a flight or bus back to Kathmandu.
The cost for the Shey Phoksundo trek varies depending on factors like transportation, guide services, and accommodations. Here is an estimated cost breakdown for Nepali and international trekkers:
Flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj: NPR 5,000 to 10,000 (one-way).
Flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal: NPR 4,000 to 5,000 (one-way).
Permits and Entrance Fees: NPR 2,500 to 4,000 for Conservation Area and trekking permits.
Guide and Porter Fees: NPR 2,000 per day for a guide and NPR 1,500 per day for a porter.
Total Estimated Cost: Around NPR 50,000 to 70,000 for a 5-day trek.
Flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj: NPR 5,000 to 7,000 (one-way).
Flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal: NPR 3,000 to 5,000 (one-way).
Permits: NPR 1,000 to 2,000.
Guide and Porter: NPR 1,500 to 2,000 per day for a guide.
Total Estimated Cost: Approximately NPR 30,000 to 40,000 for a 5-day trek.
For trekkers planning to explore Shey Phoksundo National Park, it’s essential to have a reliable map of the area. You can find maps at the following sources:
Online trekking platforms like Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN).
Local trekking agencies in Pokhara and Kathmandu.
Tourist information centers in Nepalgunj and Juphal.
These maps will guide you on the best routes, indicate water sources, show teahouse locations, and highlight important landmarks along the trek.
The Shey Phoksundo National Park trek is a breathtaking journey through some of Nepal’s most pristine landscapes. Whether you’re visiting for the Phoksundo Lake, trekking to explore remote villages, or seeking adventure in the wilderness, the Shey Phoksundo trek offers an unforgettable experience. With a 5-day trek itinerary, reasonable costs for Nepali and international trekkers, and stunning views, it’s an essential part of Nepal’s trekking circuit. Plan your trip carefully, and ensure you have the right permits, a good guide, and proper gear to enjoy this spectacular adventure.
1. How much does the Shey Phoksundo National Park trek cost for Nepali trekkers?
The cost for Nepali trekkers is significantly lower than for international trekkers, typically ranging from NPR 30,000 to 40,000 for a 5-day trek, including flights, permits, guide, and accommodation.
2. How long is the Shey Phoksundo trek?
The trek typically lasts for 5 days, with a 6-day option for those who prefer a more leisurely pace.
3. What is the best time to visit Shey Phoksundo National Park?
The best time to visit is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months when the weather is clear, and the views are spectacular.
4. What are the entry fees for Shey Phoksundo National Park?
The entry fee for international visitors is around NPR 2,000, while Nepali trekkers may pay NPR 1,000 for the Conservation Area Permit.
5. Can I trek to Phoksundo Lake without a guide?
While it is possible to trek without a guide, it is highly recommended to hire one, especially for remote treks like Shey Phoksundo, as the terrain can be difficult, and a guide ensures safety and a better experience.
6. How do I get from Kathmandu to Shey Phoksundo National Park?
You can take a flight to Nepalgunj, followed by another flight to Juphal, from where you will begin the trek.
We are a government-authorized trekking agency in Nepal. We have strictly followed all necessary legal procedures and obtained necessary licenses and certificates to be liable to operate travel services in Nepal.
