Phoksundo Lake facts for kids
Phoksundo Lake is a beautiful fresh water lake found in Nepal. It is located high up in the mountains, specifically within the Shey Phoksundo National Park. This park is a special protected area where nature and wildlife are kept safe. The lake sits at an elevation of 3,611.5 m (11,849 ft) above sea level, which is quite high!
The lake covers an area of about 494 ha (1.91 sq mi), which is roughly the size of 1,200 football fields. It holds a huge amount of water, around 409,000,000 m3 (1.44×1010 cu ft)! That's enough water to fill many, many swimming pools.
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Discovering Phoksundo Lake
Phoksundo Lake is not just a pretty sight; it's also very important for the environment. It is known for its amazing turquoise-blue color, which changes depending on the time of day. The lake is surrounded by tall mountains and rocky cliffs, making it a truly stunning place to visit.
Where is Phoksundo Lake Located?
This incredible lake is nestled within the Dolphu village development committee in the Dolpa District of Nepal. It's part of the Karnali Province, which is one of Nepal's seven provinces. Getting to the lake often involves trekking through the national park, offering adventurers a chance to see unique landscapes.
What Makes Phoksundo Lake Special?
Phoksundo Lake is a Ramsar site, which means it's recognized internationally as an important wetland. Wetlands are areas where water covers the soil, or is present either at or near the surface of the soil all year or at varying periods during the year. Being a Ramsar site helps protect the lake and its surrounding environment.
The lake is also a landslide-dammed lake. This means it was formed naturally when a large landslide blocked a river, causing water to collect and form the lake. This natural process created the deep basin that holds the lake's vast amount of water.
Nature and Wildlife Around the Lake
The area around Phoksundo Lake is rich in nature. It's part of a national park, so it's home to many different kinds of plants and animals.
Animals Living Near Phoksundo Lake
The Shey Phoksundo National Park is famous for its wildlife. You might find rare animals like the snow leopard, blue sheep, and Himalayan tahr living in the mountains around the lake. Many different types of birds also make their home here, making it a great spot for birdwatching.
Plants and Trees in the Park
The landscape around the lake varies from thick forests to high-altitude grasslands. You can find different types of trees like pine, fir, and juniper. In the spring and summer, the hillsides burst with colorful wildflowers, adding to the beauty of the region.
Visiting Phoksundo Lake
Phoksundo Lake is a popular destination for trekkers and nature lovers. The journey to the lake is an adventure itself, passing through traditional villages and stunning mountain scenery.
Trekking to the Lake
Most visitors reach Phoksundo Lake by trekking. The trails offer breathtaking views and a chance to experience the local culture. It's important to be prepared for the high altitude and changing weather conditions when planning a trip.
Respecting the Environment
When visiting Phoksundo Lake or any national park, it's important to follow rules that help protect the environment. This includes not leaving any trash behind, staying on marked trails, and respecting the wildlife. By doing so, we can help keep this beautiful place special for future generations.
