"Join a less-visited trekking route located nearby Kathmandu and get to experience distinct trekking to one of the pilgrimage sites in Nepal on our Panch Pokhari trek."
Panch Pokhari refers to the five sacred lakes situated at the base of Jugal Himal. The trail to these lakes is adventurous and presents fantastic mountain panoramas, which resulted in creating a new trekking route for foreign travelers too. It means the Panch Pokhari trek is relatively new and not known to many trekkers. Unlike the other not easily accessible trailheads, one can reach the starting point of the Panch Pokhari trekking in a mere 5 to 6 hours of drive from Kathmandu.
The Panch Pokhari is nestled, at 4,100 meters, northeast of Kathmandu. The region has significant cultural and ecological values. The Panch Pokhari trek route goes through lush rhododendron forests and alongside green rolling hills. You will be passing by terraced fields, alpine pastures, and picturesque remote villages. Instead of tourists, you will be more likely to come across natives along the way.
Panch Pokhari trek is a new addition to our short & easy yet equally rewarding treks in the Himalayas. If you have some spare days in Kathmandu and want to do something lowkey adventurous, then Panch Pokhari trekking is a good option. This trek is for everyone, whether you are a beginner trekker or experienced. Moreover, the Panch Pokhari trek is also family-friendly. You can trek with your kids and the elderly.
Highlights
Short and adventurous trek nearby Kathmandu
Less-crowded trekking route
Perfect for beginner trekkers looking for a tranquil trek in the Himalayas
Family-friendly trek, with great mountain views and cultural experience
The trail ascends and descends through lush rhododendron forests, alpine pastures, and terraced fields
Cross beautiful rivers and streams on the way
Get to see the lifestyle of the local community
Explore the five lakes and witness heavenly landscapes
Check out our other similar short treks - Langtang Valley Trek and Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek.
Panch Pokhari Trek route
There are two trekking routes that lead to Panch Pokhari. One begins from Sano Okhareni via Chautara, and the other begins from Bhotang village via Melamchi. The second route from Bhotang village is comparatively easy and short.
Depending upon your time, you can choose either of these routes, and we will make a tailored Panch Pokhari trek itinerary for you. You can do the Panch Pokhari trek following a short or long route as you wish.
Short Panch Pokhari trek
From Kathmandu to Panch Pokhari trailhead, we reach after a scenic 5 to 6 hours of drive. Bhotang village onwards, we begin trekking through villages like Tipeni Bazaar, Dhap, Raithane, and Manekharka. Passing by these villages lets us witness the lifestyle of the locals. We will meet with the locals and get to know their cultural heritage. Every new village will welcome us with its distinct charm.
We will be crossing rushing rivers and streams too, on the way. Snow-capped mountains like Jugal Himal, Dorje Lhakpa (6,966 m), Phurbi Chhyachu (6,637 m), Madiya (6,257 m), Langtang Range (7,234 m), Ganesh Himal (7,422 m), and numerous others are seen throughout the Panch Pokhari trek. Before reaching Panch Pokhari, we will ascend to Lauri Bina. A few minutes of walk from here will take us to Panch Pokhari.
Upon reaching Panch Pokhari, the first three lakes come into our perspective right away. The other two lakes are located a little far away. We will spend a night here and relish the heavenly view and divine atmosphere. Before descending, we visit the temple and get blessed by the deity.
Check out our Panch Pokhari trek map for detailed information about the route.
Panch Pokhari camping trek or teahouse trek?
The Panch Pokhari trekking route has not many tea houses. If we do not book the accommodation on time, the chances are low of getting one. And therefore, we have to do the Panch Pokhari camping trek. Generally, trekkers do camping treks to Panch Pokhari.
While camping, our crew will organize all the tents and cook. We have comfortable high alpine tents that will protect you from cold climate and wind at high altitudes. Likewise, our kitchen staff will cook delicious meals for the group.
The booking is open for Panch Pokhari trek 2022. Moreover, we have also opened early booking for Panch Pokhari trek 2023 (spring & autumn). Contact us anytime for more information.
Outline Itinerary
Day 01:Drive to Bhotang Village (1800 meters)
Day 02:Trek to Nasimpati
Day 03:Trek to Panch Pokhari Lakes (4100 meters)
Day 04:Trek down to Bhotang village
Day 05:Drive to Kathmandu