Ringmo Bon Gompa
A Sacred Haven by Phoksundo Lake
Nestled gracefully on the northern shore of the breathtakingly serene Phoksundo Lake, Ringmo Bon Gompa, also known as Tshowa Bonpo Gonpa, stands as a magnificent testament to Dolpo's ancient and deeply rooted Bonpo heritage. This sacred sanctuary, founded over 800 years ago by a revered lama from the mystical Pungmo Valley, offers visitors an extraordinary and rare glimpse into the authentic Bon tradition with its beautifully simple yet profoundly moving spiritual ambiance. The gentle 25-minute pilgrimage walk through fragrant pine forests and across the crystal-clear Phoksundo Khola river leads devoted seekers to this holy site, where ancient ochre and red-painted chortens and carefully maintained mani walls serve as spiritual guides, creating a path that itself becomes part of the transformative journey toward this remarkable repository of Bon wisdom and practice.
Gallery
Ringmo Bon Gompa by Phoksundo Lake
Pine forests and chortens near Ringmo Bon Gompa
Details
- Tradition:
- Bon
- Region:
- Lower Dolpo
- Village:
- Ringmo
- Founded:
- 800+ years ago
- Founder:
- Lama from Pungmo Valley
- Category:
- major
- Location:
- Northern shore of Phoksundo Lake
- Walking Time:
- 25 minutes from Phoksundo Lake
- Permit Required:
- Lower Dolpo
- Difficulty:
- Easy
Highlights
- Ancient Bonpo heritage
- Phoksundo Lake views
- Pine forest pilgrimage walk
- Ochre and red chortens
Best Time to Visit
Plan your adventure for Spring (March–May) to enjoy blooming rhododendrons and clear skies, or Autumn (September–November) for stable weather and stunning views. Winter (December–February) brings harsh, snowy conditions, making trekking challenging. Monsoon (June–August) has less rain due to the rain-shadow effect, but trails can still be difficult.