The Tm 3+/Er 3+/Yb 3+ co-doped Y 2 O 3–ZnO nano-composite is synthesized using the solution combustion technique. The structural morphology is monitored using x-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The Yb 3+/Tm 3+ co-doped nano-phosphor emits intense blue as well as weak red emissions, while Yb 3+/Er 3+ co-doped nano-phosphor emits strong green along with red emissions on excitation with 976 nm laser. Joining these together (ie Tm 3+/Er 3+/Yb 3+ co-doped phosphor) give very strong white light, which is further verified by CIE coordinates (0.32, 0.36). The addition of ZnO with Y 2 O 3 phosphor gives further enhancement in the intensity of white light. The possible reason for this enhancement is the removal of optical quenching sites.