Shey Phoksundo Lake

Context

Six Indian tourists went missing while trekking to Shey Phoksundo Lake in Nepal following heavy snowfall in the region.

Location and Physical Features

1. Location: Dolpa District, Nepal.
2. Type: Alpine freshwater oligotrophic lake (a high-altitude lake containing cold, clear freshwater with very low nutrient levels).
   • Alpine: Located in high-altitude mountainous regions.
   • Freshwater: Water containing very low levels of dissolved salts, making it non-saline.
   • Oligotrophic: Water bodies having very low nutrient levels (particularly nitrogen and phosphorus), resulting in low growth of algae and aquatic plants.
3. Altitude: 3,611 metres above sea level.
4. Area: Approximately 4.94 sq. km.
5. Maximum depth: 145 metres, making it one of Nepal’s deepest lakes.
6. Shape: Has a distinctive Y-shaped appearance.

Formation

1. The lake is believed to have formed around 30,000–40,000 years ago.
2. It is a landslide-dammed lake, formed when a massive mountain collapse blocked a river valley, causing water to accumulate behind the blockage.

Water and Waterfall

1. Its clear, mineral-rich water displays bright blue and turquoise shades.
2. The lake’s outlet forms the Suligad Waterfall, also known as Phoksundo Waterfall.
3. It is approximately 167 metres high and is regarded as Nepal’s highest waterfall.

Ecological and Conservation Significance

1. It was designated a Ramsar Site in 2007.
2. It lies within Shey Phoksundo National Park.

Cultural and Religious Significance

1. The Dolpo people have lived around the lake for generations and continue to practise the ancient Bon religion. Bon is one of Tibet’s oldest spiritual traditions and predates the spread of Buddhism in the region.
2. Ringmo village, located at the southern end of the lake, has around 20 stupas and a Bon Gompa (temple).
3. Both Bon and Tibetan Buddhism are practised in this region.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Where is Shey Phoksundo Lake located?

Shey Phoksundo Lake is located in the Dolpa District of Nepal, within Shey Phoksundo National Park, at an altitude of approximately 3,611 metres above sea level.

Q2. What type of lake is Shey Phoksundo Lake?

It is an alpine freshwater oligotrophic lake.

Q3. How was Shey Phoksundo Lake formed?

It is a landslide-dammed lake, believed to have formed around 30,000–40,000 years ago when a massive mountain collapse blocked a river valley.