The Panch Pokhari Trek is a hidden gem nestled in the Sindhupalchowk district of Nepal, offering a perfect blend of untouched natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and spiritual significance. It is named after the sacred “Five Lakes” located at an altitude of around 4,100 meters. This 7-day trekking itinerary takes you through lush forests, traditional Tamang and Sherpa villages, and serene alpine landscapes. Unlike the crowded trails of Everest or Annapurna, Pancha Pokhari remains a peaceful and less-explored destination, ideal for trekkers seeking solitude and a deeper connection with nature.
Whether you are a beginner trekker or looking for a short off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Pancha Pokhari Trek offers breathtaking Himalayan views, including peaks like Dorje Lakpa (6,966 m) and Jugal Himal, along with a deeply spiritual experience near one of Nepal’s most sacred pilgrimage sites. Join us as we guide you through this scenic 7-day journey to one of Nepal’s best-kept trekking secrets.
Ideal for those seeking a less-crowded trekking route in Nepal, this trek is also a deeply spiritual journey, especially during the auspicious Janai Purnima festival, when thousands of Hindu pilgrims hike to the sacred lakes for a holy dip. Whether you are an adventure lover, a spiritual seeker, or simply craving peaceful Himalayan trails, the Panch Pokhari trek promises an unforgettable experience, offering rich biodiversity, authentic mountain culture, and soul-stirring panoramic views.
At Himalayan Gateway Trek, we believe that a great journey begins with great service. Our mission is to provide you with the perfect blend of comfort, safety, and authentic Himalayan hospitality. From expert local guides to carefully designed itineraries, we ensure your trekking experience is smooth, enriching, and truly unforgettable.
Permits Required for Panch Pokhari Trek
1. TIMS Card (Trekker’s Information Management System)
- Mandatory for all foreign trekkers in the Langtang region.
- How to obtain:
- Must be issued via a registered trekking agency; no longer available for individual pickup at NTB or TAAN offices.
- You will need a passport copy, a visa, photos, and proof of insurance.
2. Langtang National Park Entry Permit
- Required for entering protected areas like Langtang Valley and Gosaikunda.
- Where to get:
- Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara, or at trailheads like Dhunche/Syabrubesi.
Panch Pokhari Trek Highlights
- A group of five holy lakes at 4,100m, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.
- A peaceful and less crowded trekking route in the remote Sindhupalchok region.
- Offers breathtaking vistas of Langtang, Jugal Himal, Dorje Lakpa, and even Everest.
- Experience authentic Tamang and Sherpa culture in traditional mountain villages.
- Trek through lush forests, alpine meadows, and spot rare Himalayan wildlife.
- A pristine trekking experience far from commercial tourist crowds.
- Suitable for moderately fit trekkers with a mix of gradual and steep trails.
- Witness traditional ceremonies, especially during Janai Purnima in August.
Benefits of Trekking with Himalayan Gateway Trek
- Free transfer from Tribhuvan International Airport to the hotel during arrival and vice-versa on departure.
- Easy booking and reservation system.
- Trek with experienced local guides who prioritize your safety and enjoyment throughout the journey.
- Enjoy customized itineraries that match your fitness level, preferences, and available time.
- Enjoy transparent, fair pricing with no hidden costs, ensuring value for your money.
- Receive quick assistance in emergencies, along with guidance to prevent altitude sickness.
- Stay in local teahouses and connect with the local people to immerse yourself in their culture.
- Himalayan Gateway Trek promotes eco-friendly and responsible trekking, working closely with local communities to ensure that tourism benefits the region while preserving the environment.
Comprehensive Panch Pokhari Trek
The Panch Pokhari Trek is a hidden gem in Nepal’s trekking landscape, offering a serene and spiritually enriching journey to five sacred alpine lakes nestled at an elevation of 4,100 meters. Located in the Sindhupalchok district, this trek is ideal for those seeking a quiet, off-the-beaten-path experience away from the crowded trails of Everest and Annapurna. With its untouched natural beauty, the trail winds through dense rhododendron and pine forests, open meadows, waterfalls, and remote highlands rich in biodiversity.
Trekkers are rewarded with panoramic mountain views of the Langtang range, Jugal Himal, Dorje Lakpa, and even distant glimpses of Mount Everest on clear days. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming Tamang and Sherpa villages, where you can immerse yourself in local culture, traditions, and warm hospitality. The trek also holds deep spiritual significance, drawing Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims during Janai Purnima, when thousands gather to bathe in the holy lakes.
Easily accessible from Kathmandu within a 5–6 hour drive to the trailhead, the Panch Pokhari Trek is suitable for trekkers with moderate fitness. The route offers both camping and basic teahouse accommodations, making it an ideal blend of wilderness adventure and cultural discovery. If you’re looking for a peaceful, eco-friendly trek that combines natural beauty, spiritual depth, and authentic village life, Panch Pokhari is a perfect choice.
To undertake the Panch Pokhari Trek, you’ll need two main permits: the Langtang National Park Entry Permit and the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card. While hiring a guide is not mandatory for this region, it is highly recommended for safety, cultural insight, and ease of navigation. Permits can be obtained in Kathmandu at the Nepal Tourism Board office or through registered trekking agencies.
Panch Pokhari Trek Itinerary Details
Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu Airport (1,400m ) and transfer to the hotel for check-in and rest.
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal, our friendly team from Himalayan Gateway Trek will be there to greet you with a warm welcome and take you to your hotel.
Once you arrive, you’ll receive a warm welcome, with staff presenting you with traditional flower garlands. They will assist you with the check-in process and make sure you’re comfortable. Afterward, you can relax and get ready for your adventure the next day. In the evening, walk around Thamel and have dinner whenever you like.
At Himalayan Gateway Trek, we are excited to begin this journey with you and ensure a memorable experience throughout your stay in Nepal.
Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu (1400m) to Bhotang Village (1800m).
Start the day with a scenic drive from Kathmandu (1,400 m) to Bhotang Village (1,800 m). The drive takes about 6-7 hours along winding mountain roads, offering beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Upon arrival at Bhotang, you can explore the peaceful village, interact with locals, and prepare for the next day’s trek. The altitude gain helps with gradual acclimatization. Overnight stay in basic teahouses in Bhotang.
Day 03: Trek from Bhotang Village (1800) to Nisimpati (3,700m).
Today’s trail ascends through rhododendron and pine forests, passing Tamang villages, chortens, and prayer flags. Enjoy panoramic views of the Jugal Himal range as you climb.
After a short rest at Dukhang, the trail becomes steeper, leading up to Nisimpati, a peaceful alpine meadow and pilgrim rest stop. You will spend the night in a basic shelter or teahouse, gazing up at the stars.
Day 04: Trek from Nisimpati (3,700m) to Pancha Pokhari (4,100m)
Today’s trek is a steady uphill climb through alpine terrain, offering stunning views of the Jugal and Langtang ranges. The trail is peaceful and spiritual, marked with prayer flags and chortens along the way.
After around 4–5 hours of hiking, you will reach the sacred Pancha Pokhari—a group of five holy lakes nestled in the mountains. It’s a revered pilgrimage site, especially during Janai Purnima. The area is calm and scenic, perfect for reflection.
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Day 05: Trek from Pancha Pokhari (4,100m) to Bhotang Village (1,800m)
After enjoying the morning views of the sacred lakes, begin your descent back to Bhotang Village. The trail retraces your steps through alpine meadows, forests, and small rest points like Nisimpati and Dukhang. As you lose altitude, the air gets warmer and the greenery returns.
Expect a long day of downhill trekking, taking about 6–7 hours. You will stay overnight at Bhotang, where you can rest and reflect on your journey.
Day 06: Drive from Bhotang Village to Kathmandu.
After breakfast, you will start your drive back to Kathmandu via Melamchi and Sankhu. The journey takes around 6–7 hours, passing through scenic hillsides, terraced farms, and local villages.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check into your hotel and enjoy a well-deserved rest or explore the city in the evening.
Day 07:Departure to your home.
On the final day of your journey, you will be transferred to Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time to do some last-minute shopping or explore the city.
As you leave Nepal, you will take with you unforgettable memories of your incredible trek through the Pancha Pokhari Trek.
What is included in this trek package?
- Airport pickup and drop by private vehicle.
- Two nights Kathmandu Hotel including breakfast.
- All kinds of transportation services, notably local vehicles.
- Full board meal during the trek: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner with tea/coffee.
- An English speaking, government licensed trekking guide and porter (1 porter for 2 trekker’s ).
- Khumbu Pashang Lhamu Rural Municipality fees.
- Food, salary, insurance, accommodation of Nepali staff.
- All government, local taxes, and other official expenses.
- Sleeping bag & Duffel bag to each trekker’s (to be returned after the trek ).
- Farewell dinner at typical Nepali restaurant.
- Travel & rescue arrangement (Helicopter evacuation available if required, at clients cost based on clients insurance policy).
- Trekking Certificate.
- Medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
What is excluded in this trek package?
- Flights to and from Nepal are not included in the trekking package.
- The Nepal visa fee of $30 USD can be paid upon arrival in Kathmandu.
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu due to early arrival or late departure, early return from the trek
- All meals in Kathmandu, before and after the journey.
- Personal expenses such as laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters bottled or boiled water, shower, heater and phone calls etc.
- Travel Insurance (including medical evacuation, trekking, and emergency rescue) is not included.
- Personal trekking gear like trekking boots, jackets, gloves, hats, sunglasses, and a backpack are usually not included. These items must be purchased or rented separately.
- Private Jeep ( additional $350 for round trip )
- Tips to Guide and Porter.
- All the alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
- Additional trips or tours in Kathmandu.
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
- Valid Passport.
- Warm Fleece Jacket or Down Jacket.
- Sleeping Bag , Sleeping Liner and Sleeping Pad.
- Backpack.
- Trekking Boots.
- Chap stick / Sunscreen.
- Face mask or Scarf.
- Hand towel.
- Waterproof Jacket and Pan.
- Sun Hat or Cap.
- Water Purification Tablets or Water Filter.
- Power Bank for charging devices.
- Toothbrush/Toothpaste, Hand Sanitizer Wet Wipes Biodegradable Soap.
- Altitude Sickness Medication.
- Plastic Zip-Lock Bags.
- Warm Hat (beanie or woolen hat).
- Travel Pillow (for extra comfort).
Best Season
The best time to trek to Panch Pokhari is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). In spring, the forests burst into vibrant blooms of rhododendrons and wildflowers, while the weather is mild and pleasant. Autumn offers crystal-clear skies, stable conditions, and excellent mountain visibility, making it ideal for panoramic views of Jugal Himal, Dorje Lakpa, and Langtang Lirung. These seasons also ensure safer trails and more comfortable trekking temperatures, especially at higher elevations near the lakes.
Trekking Duration & Difficulty
The Panch Pokhari Trek typically takes 8 to 10 days and is considered moderate in difficulty. The highest point is the Panch Pokhari lakes at 4,100 meters, which does not require technical climbing but includes steep ascents, high-altitude exposure, and long walking hours. It’s suitable for trekkers with a basic level of fitness and some prior hiking experience. While altitude symptoms are less intense than on extremely high-altitude routes, proper acclimatization and pacing are important.
Transportation
Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Chautara or Melamchi, depending on the route, which takes about 5 to 6 hours. From there, the trek begins on foot, winding through remote villages and ascending toward the holy lakes. After completing the trek, you’ll return via the same trail and drive back to Kathmandu. All ground transportation—including private vehicles and transfers—will be arranged to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience.
Typical Daily Schedule
A typical trekking day starts at around 6:30 to 7:00 AM with breakfast. You will trek for 5 to 7 hours, depending on the terrain and elevation, with breaks for lunch at scenic resting points. Evenings are spent in basic teahouses or homestays, offering an authentic glimpse into local life. The trek offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and spiritual experiences, with time to explore villages, monasteries, and the serene Panch Pokhari lakes.
Accommodation & Meals
Accommodation during the Panch Pokhari Trek is in simple teahouses, village homestays, or tented camps in more remote areas. Facilities are basic but clean, with shared rooms and limited amenities. Meals consist of freshly cooked Nepali and local Himalayan dishes, including dal bhat, noodles, thukpa, and seasonal vegetables. Our team ensures that all meals are hygienic and energy-rich to support your daily trekking needs.
Permits & Entry Fees
Trekking to Panch Pokhari requires the following permits, all of which will be arranged for you:
-
Langtang National Park Entry Permit
-
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
We will manage the application process and ensure you have everything needed before starting the trek. Please carry a copy of your passport and passport-sized photos.
Trekking Support & Safety
With Himalayan Gateway Trek, your safety and satisfaction come first. You will be guided by an experienced, licensed, English-speaking trekking guide who knows the Panch Pokhari region well. Our porters carry up to 15 kg per person, allowing you to trek light. We also carry a first aid kit, pulse oximeter, and emergency communication devices, and we offer 24/7 support, including assistance with helicopter evacuation in case of emergencies.
