Shey Phoksundo Helicopter Tour

Overview

Shey Phoksundo helicopter tour offers a speedy alternative for a clear look at the deep turquoise bowl of Shey Phoksundo Lake, nestled in lower Dolpo. Departure from Kathmandu or Nepalgunj places you at Juphal or Dunai, where you then follow the aerial loop down to the lake.

The park authorities forbid helicopters from landing on the lake, a part of the park that it confines. They equip a circular flight above Ringmo and cliffs surrounding the lake, showcasing the turquoise water, the peak ice walls and colors of Dolpo.

This tour is good for tourists who prefer the landscape of Dolpo without undertaking long treks, horse riding or mountain plane rides. The weather really counts here, warm layers are one of the must haves when altitude is so high and helicopter hovering duration depends on the degree of clear visibility around the lake.

Highlights of the Shey Phoksundo Helicopter Tour

Aerial Loop Over Shey Phoksundo Lake: Panoramic views of the turquoise lake, Ringmo cliffs and surrounding glaciers. The lake appears almost unreal from the air.
Ringmo & Tshowa Gompa (Aerial View): Helicopters hover above the ancient Bon-Buddhist village and the cliff-side Tshowa Monastery.
Waterfall: Visible from the air as a long white ribbon falling from the lake’s outflow channel. One of Nepal’s tallest waterfalls.
Dunai & Dolpo Valleys: Clear views of the Bheri corridor, narrow ridges and terraced fields that characterize Lower Dolpo.
Fast Dolpo Access: Reaches a region that normally requires long treks, multi-day bike rides or multi-stage flights.

Itinerary

Day 1: Kathmandu or Pokhara to Nepalgunj (Flight)

150 m

Morning flight to Nepalgunj. Meet the helicopter operator, complete safety briefing and prepare for next day’s Dolpo flight.

Day 2: Nepalgunj to Juphal by Helicopter, Continue to Phoksundo Aerial Loop

3611 m

Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal. Refuel or pick up local permissions. Continue the helicopter route toward Ringmo. The helicopter circles above Shey Phoksundo Lake, offering extended viewing time, weather permitting. No landing is allowed at the lake. Return to Juphal or Dunai for a ground stop. Overnight in Nepalgunj or Juphal depending on wind and weather.

Cost Breakdown

Item	Budget Price	Mid Range Price	Luxury Price
Accommodation in Nepalgunj (per night)	$20 to $40	$50 to $80	$100 to $150
Meals (per day)	$12 to $20	$25 to $35	$40 to $60+
Helicopter Charter (Dolpo)	$4,500 to $6,000	$6,500 to $9,000	$10,000 +
Travel Insurance	$60 to $120	$120 to $180	$200 +
National Park Entry Permit	$25 to $40	same	same
Kathmandu Nepalgunj Flight Round Trip	$180 t0 $250	-	-

Note: Note: Prices vary depending on helicopter type (AS350/Eurocopter B3 being standard for Dolpo), landing fees, weight limits and passenger count.

Trip Map

Download Map

Compliance

Park Permit

Permit for entering the Shey Phoksundo National Park is obligatory for air and land entries.

Landing Requirements

Landing on the actual Phoksundo lake, Ringmo or within the protected area is not permissible. Landing should be done only on Juphal and Dunai helipads.

Weather Conditions

Flying is good with sunny weather, provided clear visibility rules. In Dolpo, by afternoon the winds become strong. Therefore most air journeys are operated in the morning.

Altitude & Acclimatization

The body is minimally affected by high altitudes because the flight does not descend to the lake. Nevertheless, quick pressure changes during the gorgeous flight may arouse strong feelings in some passengers.

Emergency & Evacuation

In emergencies, air-rescue flights may be possible in the Dolpo regions, weather willing. Check that insurance provides for helicopter evacuation from very remote regions.

Packing

Clothing: Warm layers, windproof jacket, sturdy shoes for Juphal or Dunai landing, gloves and a cap.
Essentials: Sunglasses, sunscreen, camera with extra batteries, personal medications and a small day pack.Experience breathtaking aerial views of Shey Phoksundo Lake with Shey Phoksundo Helicopter Tour, Your Fastest Dolpo Experience.
Electronics: Power bank. Charging options are available in Nepalgunj but limited in Dolpo.
Fitness: No trekking fitness required, but mobility helps during ground stops at helipads.
Cash & ATMs: ATMs work in Nepalgunj. Dolpo does not have reliable ATM services.
Wi-Fi & Power: Available in Nepalgunj hotels. Dolpo helipads have minimal facilities.
Mobile Coverage: NTC signal works around Dunai and Juphal. No service at Phoksundo Lake.
Weight Limits: Helicopters into Dolpo have strict weight limits. Bags may be weighed in Nepalgunj.
Local Culture: Dolpo follows Bon and Tibetan Buddhist traditions. Even during aerial viewing, respect guidelines for photography around monasteries and villages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our trips

No, helicopters can’t land at Shey Phoksundo Lake. Landings inside the national park near the lake are not permitted.

Yes, you can see the Shey Phoksundo Lake clearly without landing. The aerial loop provides clear and unobstructed views of the turquoise lake, cliffs, Ringmo village and the Tshowa Monastery area.

The Dolpo flight from Nepalgunj to Juphal takes about 35 to 45 minutes. The aerial loop adds 15 to 25 minutes depending on conditions.

Yes, the helicopter tour is safe. Flights are operated by certified mountain pilots. Weather windows are closely monitored and flights are scheduled in the morning for safety.

The best season Shey Phoksundo helicopter tour is Spring and autumn as it offer the most stable weather and clear views.