We offer special group discounts, please contact us for the offers.
Trip Duration 7 Days
Group Size 2 to 25 People
Maximum Altitude 4100m
Difficulty Grade Moderate
Start & End Point Kathmandu
Best Seasons Autum, Spring
Trip Highlights of Panch Pokhari Trek
Visit the holy Panch Pokhari alpine lakes.
Explore the Tamang traditional villages.
Trek across forests, meadows, and mountain ridges.
See the Jugal Himal and other mountains.
Explore the tranquil trails of the Panch Pokhari area.
Camp beside the sacred Panch Pokhari lakes at 4,100 meters.
Trek with the experienced team of Nepal Wanderlust Treks.
Overview of Panch Pokhari Trek
The Panch Pokhari Trek is a short Himalayan journey that leads to a group of five sacred alpine lakes in the Sindhupalchok district of Nepal. There are high hills, grasslands and mountain landscapes around the trek which are a combination of natural beauty and cultural and religious values. It is a great alternative to those travellers who desire to travel a less travelled trekking route and avoid the congested trails but still have an experience of a real Himalayan trekking experience.
It starts in scenic touring Kathmandu to Bhotang and further through forest trails in the traditional Tamang villages and the scenic mountainous landscape. The path continues upwards and the dense woods gradually transform into alpine meadows, mountain ridges and views of the mountain in a panorama. The highlight of the trek is reaching Panch Pokhari at 4,100 meters, where the five glacial lakes hold special importance for both Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims. This is an ideal location to enjoy the natural beauty of the Himalayas owing to the serene environment.
In Nepal Wanderlust Treks, all details of your trip are well planned to offer you a safe and comfortable trekking experience. With our local guides, we handle transportation, accommodation, permits, and daily logistics, so that you can enjoy the trail without worrying about any of these, and learn about the local culture and traditions.
Our Panch Pokhari Trek Itinerary follows a gradual route that allows enough time to enjoy the changing landscapes before reaching the sacred lakes. 7 Days Panch Pokhari Trek is suitable for trekkers with moderate fitness and an excellent introduction to high altitude trekking. Panch Pokhari Lake Trek is a good option for a short and easy Himalayan adventure with relaxing walks, mountain scenery and cultural insights.
Itinerary of Panch Pokhari Trek
01
Arrival at Kathmandu Airport (1,400 m)
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Nepal Wanderlust Treks will receive you and will take you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Once you check in, you can unwind after a trip or visit the streets nearby provided you have time.
We will have a briefing on the trek in the evening where our guide will discuss the itinerary, check your equipment and answer any questions. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
Car 30-45 minutes
Altitude 1400m
02
Drive from Kathmandu (1,400 m) to Bhotang (1,800 m)
We will depart Kathmandu after breakfast and head towards Bhotang in the northeast by road, through small towns, terraced fields, and meandering mountain roads. The journey offers beautiful views of rivers, hills, and traditional villages as we leave the city behind.
We will arrive at Bhotang and after that we will relax in our lodging and will have time to enjoy the serene environment. This village is the beginning of our journey to the sacred Panch Pokhari lakes.
Car 6 to 7 hours
Altitude 1800m
03
Trek from Bhotang (1,800 m) to Nasimpati (3,600 m)
Today begins with a steady uphill climb through forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron. The trail then crosses grazing lands, streams and clearings as we gradually ascend. As we climb higher, beautiful views of the surrounding hills gradually begin to appear.
By afternoon we will be at Nasimpati, a peaceful encampment in the alpine meadows. This is a perfect place to spend the night as it includes the cool mountain air and the peaceful environment.
Walking 6 to 7 hours
Altitude 3600m
04
Trek from Nasimpati (3,600 m) to Panch Pokhari (4,100 m)
We will now leave Nasimpati, and proceed across the alpine scenery to the sacred lakes of Panch Pokhari. The trail is now shorter, and we have ample time to admire the scenes, as we travel to the lakes. On clear days, the surrounding Himalayan peaks provide excellent mountain views.
Once we reach Panch Pokhari, we will have time to visit the five religious lakes and the religious sites. We will camp by the lakes as we take time to appreciate the serene mountain settings.
Walking 3 to 4 hours
Altitude 4100m
05
Trek from Panch Pokhari (4,100 m) to Bhotang (1,800 m)
After enjoying the early morning views around the lakes, we will begin our descent toward Bhotang. The trail follows the same route back through alpine meadows before descending into forests of rhododendron, pine, and oak.
The changing scenery and the warmer climate give a different view of the landscape as we descend in altitude. After the trekking part of the journey, we will have a well deserved rest after reaching Bhotang.
Walking 7 to 8 hours
Altitude 4100m
06
Drive from Bhotang (1,800 m) to Kathmandu (1,400 m)
We will take our scenic drive back to Kathmandu after breakfast, leaving Bhotang. The road traverses traditional villages, terraced farmlands, rivers and wooded hills before connecting to the highway to the capital. On your way, you will enjoy the last sight of the countryside and reminisce about the experiences of the trek.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we will transfer you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore the local markets or spend it with a farewell dinner with your fellow trekkers.
Car 6 to 7 hours
Altitude 1800m
07
Final Departure
Today ends your 7 Days Panch Pokhari Trek. As per your flight plan we will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport to continue your journey.
Thank you for choosing Nepal Wanderlust Treks. We hope you leave Nepal with wonderful memories of the sacred lakes, mountain landscapes, and warm local hospitality. We look forward to welcome you again for another Himalayan adventure.
Car 30 to 45 minutes
Includes/Excludes
What's Included?
Airport arrival and departure transfers by private vehicle.
One night hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast.
Private transportation from Kathmandu to Bhotang and back to Kathmandu.
Lodge or community accommodation during the trek where available.
Camping accommodation with tents and necessary equipment where required.
Three meals a day during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
Seasonal fresh fruits after dinner during the trek.
Experienced, government licensed English speaking trekking guide.
One porter for every two trekkers (maximum 20 kg combined luggage).
Guide and porter salary, meals, accommodation, insurance, and equipment.
All required trekking permits and local entry fees.
Camping equipment, including sleeping tents, dining tent, kitchen tent, and kitchen utensils where necessary.
Trekking map and duffel bag for use during the trek.
First aid kit carried by the guide.
All government taxes and company service charges.
What's Excluded?
International airfare to and from Nepal.
Nepal entry visa fee.
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
Travel insurance, including emergency helicopter evacuation.
Personal trekking equipment and clothing.
Sleeping bag and personal trekking gear (available for rent if required).
Hot showers, Wi-Fi, charging facilities and laundry during the trek.
Bottled water, soft drinks, alcoholic drinks and extra snacks.
Personal expenses, shopping and tips to the guide and porter.
Costs incurred due to road closures, natural disasters, strikes or any other unforeseen circumstances.
Any services not mentioned in the Cost Includes section.
Essential Information - Panch Pokhari Trek
Best Time for the Panch Pokhari Trek
The Panch Pokhari Trek is best during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). The months are typically good with stable weather, favorable temperatures, and clear skies of the Jugal Himalayan range. In spring, the lower trails are lined with blooming rhododendron forests. Autumn brings fresh mountain air and excellent visibility after the monsoon.
Experienced trekkers can complete this trek during winter. However, cold weather and snowfall may affect the higher sections of the trail around the lakes. The rainy months present lots of wetness, muddy roads, and minimal mountain scenery. The most comfortable trekking condition is in the spring or fall and following our Panch Pokhari Trek Itinerary.
Difficulty of the Panch Pokhari Trek
The Panch Pokhari Trek is a moderate trek suitable for people with a good level of fitness. The walks typically take between 5 and 7 hours a day, along forest paths, mountain ridges and alpine scenery. The last ascent to Panch Pokhari is 4,100 meters and a gradual speed is essential.
Previous experience in trekking is advantageous but with appropriate preparation, beginners can also pass through this trek. Our experienced guides maintain a comfortable pace, monitor your condition, and allow regular breaks throughout the trek.
Accommodation and Meals
Accommodation includes a hotel in Kathmandu and simple lodges or community accommodations along the trekking route where available. Camping is generally required at higher camps, including Nasimpati and Panch Pokhari, where permanent accommodation is very limited. We provide quality camping equipment, including sleeping tents, dining tents, and kitchen tents whenever camping is required.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served fresh along the trek. The food is Nepali, Tibetan, and basic international food made of locally available materials. Most of the overnight stops also have hot drinks.
Permits for the Panch Pokhari Trek
The Panch Pokhari Trek requires the necessary permits and local entry fees as per the latest government and local regulations. Nepal Wanderlust Treks will arrange all the required permits before your trek begins, making the process simple and hassle free. All you have to do is send us a valid copy of your passport and passport sized photographs and our team will do all the paperwork for you. This allows you to enjoy the trek while we take care of the permit arrangements.
Travel Insurance
The Panch Pokhari Trek should be covered by travel insurance. Your policy must cover high altitude trekking, emergency medical treatment, helicopter evacuation, trip cancellation and personal belongings.
Although a short trek, it is at an altitude of 4,100 meters and the weather can change suddenly. With the proper insurance, you can relax knowing that our team can arrange emergency support quickly if needed during your Panch Pokhari Lake Trek.
Most Asked Questions by Travellers
Panch Pokhari are five holy alpine lakes which are of religious value to Hindus and Buddhists. Many pilgrims visit the lakes during the Janai Purnima festival.
You will spend the night in Kathmandu hotel and simple lodges or community houses on the trail. Depending on the season and the facilities available, it may be required to camp at higher altitudes.
Basic snacks and drinks are available in the lower villages. Since there is a lack of facilities at higher elevations, we suggest you bring your favourite energy bars and light snacks.
Yes. We recommend carrying a maximum of 10 kg per trekker. One porter carries a maximum combined load of 20 kg for two trekkers.
On clear days, the higher parts of the trail provide views of the Jugal Himal range, Dorje Lakpa, Phurbi Chyachu, Madiya Peak, and, in favorable conditions, Gaurishankar.
Yes. Beginners with a good level of fitness and proper preparation can complete the trek with the support of an experienced guide.
Yes. The trail offers excellent opportunities to photograph alpine lakes, forests, mountain scenery, traditional villages, and Himalayan mountain ranges.
Our experienced local team provides professional guides, dependable services, and well planned itineraries to ensure a safe and comfortable trekking experience from your arrival in Nepal until your departure.
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We offer special group discounts, please contact us for the offers.
