Pal Shenten Thasung Choling Monastery was established before the 10th century in Rigmo village on the edge of Phoksundo Lake in Shey phoksundo rural municipality-8 of Dolpa. There is a history that the monastery was established with the aim of protecting the community and preventing the hunting of wild animals. Recently, the monastery has been systematically reconstructed. Photo: Lekh Bahadur Budha / Rass
Pal Shenten Thasung Choling Monastery, located in Rigmo village near the pristine Phoksundo Lake in Shey Phoksundo Rural Municipality-8, Dolpa, Nepal, is an ancient spiritual site. Established before the 10th century, this monastery is a significant landmark of the Bon religion, one of Tibet’s oldest spiritual traditions, predating Buddhism.
 Features of the monastery and its surroundings include:
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Historical Importance: As a Bon religious site, the monastery is not only a place of worship but also a treasure trove of cultural and spiritual heritage. It embodies centuries-old practices, teachings, and traditional arts.
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Location: Situated on the edge of Phoksundo Lake, one of Nepal’s most breathtaking and deepest alpine lakes, the monastery offers stunning natural beauty and serenity, making it a focal point for pilgrims and tourists alike.
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Architecture and Artifacts: The monastery is adorned with intricate designs, murals, and ancient artifacts, reflecting Bon cosmology and philosophy. These elements highlight the unique cultural synthesis in the Dolpa region.
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Role in the Community: It serves as a spiritual hub for local Bon practitioners, hosting rituals, festivals, and meditation retreats. It also preserves the rich oral and written traditions of the Bon faith.
Phoksundo Lake, located in the Dolpa district of Nepal, is approximately 360 kilometers (224 miles) northwest of Kathmandu as the crow flies. However, due to the rugged terrain and lack of direct roads, the journey is long and involves multiple stages.
Travel Options:
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By Air and Trekking:
- Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (1 hour): Nepalgunj is a major gateway to western Nepal.
- Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal (Dolpa) (35-45 minutes): Juphal is the closest airport to Phoksundo Lake.
- Trek from Juphal to Phoksundo Lake: This trek usually takes 2-3 days, depending on your pace and stops. The route passes through Dunai (the district headquarters) and Rigmo village near the lake. It’s a stunning journey through rugged terrain and lush valleys.
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By Road and Trekking (More Challenging):
- Drive from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (10-12 hours): This involves a mix of paved and rough roads.
- Drive from Nepalgunj to Sulighat (a few hours): The road conditions can be challenging and may require a 4×4 vehicle.
- Trek from Sulighat to Phoksundo Lake: This trek is similar to the one from Juphal and typically takes 4-5 days, depending on the route chosen.
 Notes:
- The journey to Phoksundo is as much about the experience as the destination. Expect steep trails, suspension bridges, dense forests, and incredible views of the Himalayas.
- Phoksundo Lake sits at an altitude of 3,611 meters (11,849 feet), so proper acclimatization and preparation are essential.
- This area lies in Shey Phoksundo National Park, a protected region known for its biodiversity and cultural heritage, so permits (e.g., park entry and trekking permits) are required.
