Trek to Panch Pokhari, five sacred alpine lakes at 4,100m, revered by both Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims and linked to a Shiva legend.
Take in a genuine four-range panorama from the sunrise viewpoint above the lakes Jugal Himal, Dorje Lakpa (6,966m), Langtang, and Rolwaling.
Walk through rhododendron, oak, and pine forest, with real chances of spotting Himalayan black bear, musk deer, and mountain goat.
Experience authentic Tamang and Sherpa village life, especially in Dhap, a Tamang community with rich local tradition.
One of Nepal's genuinely quiet, camping-based treks no crowded teahouse trail, just tents, forest, and holy lakes.
Panch Pokhari Trek is one of the trekking routes loved by many tourists in today’s context. this trek is well known as five different small lakes Nepalese people. Thes five lake has their own name and is also known as derived from Lord Shiva. Panch Pokhari is located in the northeast part of Kathmandu at the base of the beautiful mountain called Jugal Himal. This trek is often visited by Hindu religious people and is also known to be sacred.
The beginning point of this trek is Chautara of the Sindhupalchok and you will reach this Chautara of Sindhupalchok by bus in 5-6 hours from Kathmandu. One of the amazing features of Langtang National Park is known as Panch Pokhari. Every year many Brahmin people came to this place to change the sacred thread(Janai) at the Janai Purnima festival.
Many Hindu pilgrims visit here(Panch Pokhari) to worship Lord Shiva and have huge respect for this place. You can see amazing snow-capped mountains from this lake. Some of the mountains that are seen from Panch Pokhari are; Dorje Lakpa (6966 m), Madiya(6257 m), Phurbi Chhyachu(6637 m), Jugal Himal, Rowling, and Langtang ranges. You can hilarious sunsets and sunrise on this trek from Panch Pokhari. You can also see stunning biological diversities on this trekking route.
This trekking trail lies at the base of the Jugal Himal range. You can see many people from Sherpa and Tamang community and their hospitality behavior will also attract you. you can also learn their culture, tradition and also hospitality behavior. the landscape of this trekking route is amazing and which have helped in viewing stunning snowy mountains.
Panch Pokhari means 5 holy ponds and this place is religiously respected by all Hindu pilgrims. Their way of living is also unique and amazing. During this trek, you can see many villages and also various flora and fauna. Musk deer, Himalayan black bears, Monkeys, and a Himalayan wild goat are one of the attractions of this trek.
You can also see many wildflowers and beautiful birds too. You must have the good physical condition in order to enjoy this trek. you will be at a height of 4100 m above sea level. Panch Pokhari is 258 km far from Kathmandu. You can also enjoy Panch Pokhari Mela every year. The main highlights of this trek are waterfalls, gorges, ancient caves, and also many valleys.
This trekking trail is loved by many tourists because it is not so crowded and you can feel peach here. this trekking route doesn’t have tea houses like other trekking trail. In the spring season, you can see an amazing red forest due to rhododendron and many high hills. The scene seen in the hills due to rhododendron will be remembered for a lifetime. You can also see eye-catching snowy mountains too.
You can trek in this trekking route(Panch Pokhari trek) throughout the year. This trek is a not difficult trek but you need to take care of your health because the height may affect you. this trekking trail is not considered as hard so any aged tourist can enjoy this trek.
Itinerary
1DayArrival at Kathmandu valley. Transfer to hotelDay 1 of 15
After we arrived at Tribhuvan international airport, we were received by the private vehicle of the hotel we had booked in Kathmandu. The particular representative gave us further information about the trek.
2DayWorld Heritage sites of Kathmandu Sightseeing, 6 hours.Day 2 of 15
Today we were too excited to visit the world heritage site of Kathmandu valley. So we had breakfast and start moving towards Boudhanath stupa. This stupa is also known as the oldest stupa in Nepal. After that, we move towards Pashupatinath temple where the cremation takes place by the holy river Bagmati. This temple is the temple of Hindu pilgrims. Later we visited Kathmandu durbar square and Swyambhunath Stupa. Then we returned back to the hotel.
3DayDrive from Kathmandu to Chautara (1,450m / 4,742 ft), 6 hours BusDay 3 of 15
Today is the day to drive from Kathmandu to Chautara which is at an altitude of 1450 m above sea level. The headquarter of Sindhupalchok district is Chautara where we fixed camp for tonight. Then we did sightseeing and talked with the villagers. We saw a stunning view of many mountains and hills.
4DayTrek to Sano Okhareni (1,965m/6,426 ft), 5 hoursDay 4 of 15
Our trek goes gradually so we move upward towards Sano Okhareni which is at an altitude of 1965 m above sea level. We passed through a village and we saw many ethnic groups of people living together with love and care. We camped at Sano Okhareni near the pine forest from where we saw amazing snowy mountains and green hills.
5DayTrek to Kami Kharka (2,810m/9,189 ft), 5 hoursDay 5 of 15
Today morning we walked uphill towards Thulo Okhareni and after that, we climbed hills with was full of various trees and flowers like rhododendron. We saw a red forest due to rhododendron. We also got a chance to see langur monkeys, Danfe, mountain deer, etc.
6DayTrek to Pauwa Bas (3,000m/9,810 ft), 6 hoursDay 6 of 15
Today we were heading towards Pauwa Bas which was known as the shelter for the pilgrims who visit Panch Pokhari. We also saw some of the nomad’s houses that were built for cattle on the way to Pauwa Bas. today’s walk was gentle and kind of a straightway so we got a chance to enjoy our forest trails and wildlife spotting. We walked through the rhododendron forest and we also saw trees like oak, pine, etc on the way.
7DayTrek to Hille Bhanjyang (3,400m/11,118 ft), 6 hoursDay 7 of 15
This morning we start trekking after having a light breakfast. We start trekking to Hille Bhanjyang which was at the height of 3400 m above sea level. We step uphill and saw an amazing view of mountains and then we step downhill for around 1 and a half hours through the rhododendron forest. We saw amazing flora and fauna on the way. Then we saw an amazing mountain view from our camp at Hille Bhanjyang.
8DayTrek to Narsim Pati (3,700m/12,099 ft), 4 hoursDay 8 of 15
Today we walked for around 4 hours in total. First, we climbed a rocky hill for an hour, and then we enjoy 3 hour’s walk through rocky hills and a rhododendron forest which was amazing and eye-catching. Then we rested at the rest house built on the way to Panch Pokhari and saw the stunning scenery of mountains from our camp.
9DayPanch Pokhari Trek (4,100m/13,407 ft), 7 hoursDay 9 of 15
Today we woke up and had a light breakfast then we start moving through rocky hills in order to reach our destination i,e. Panch Pokhari which means five ponds in English. We saw two pilgrims visit there 1. Hindus and 2. Buddhist we also saw two pilgrim houses and temples which are dedicated to Lord Shiva. Janai Purnima is held in August and we can see many Hindu pilgrims in Panch Pokhari.
10DayPanch Pokhari hiking, trek to Tupi Danda (2,320m/7,586 ft), 7 hoursDay 10 of 15
Today we woke up early in order to see the sunrise. We climb hills for around 1 and a half hours to see the beautiful sight of sunrise over the Himalayas. We also saw an amazing panoramic view of mountains like Mt.Dorje Lakpa, Jugal Himal Range, Rowaling Himal Range, and Langtang Range. After this awesome morning, we went back to Panch Pokhari in order to pick a bag and start moving home. While moving downward we saw a stunning rhododendron forest.
11DayTrek to Dhap (1,200m/3,924 ft), 7 hoursDay 11 of 15
Dhap is one of the most beautiful villages on this trekking trail. To reach Dhap we walked through terrace fields. Dhap is known as the home of the Tamang community people. We got an awesome chance to rnsee the culture, tradition, and lifestyle of the Tamang people closely.
12DayRest day to explore aroundDay 12 of 15
On this day, we visited villages and explored the culture and traditions of the people living there.
13DayTrek to Melamchi (800m / 2,616 ft), 6:30 hoursDay 13 of 15
Today we woke up early and start our trek to Melamchi. Melamchi is at an altitude of 800 m above sea level. We walked along the Indrawati river through terraced fields. We saw a hydroelectricity project on the way while passing an amazing village on the way to Tipini. At the bank of the Melamchi Khola and Indrawati rivers, we saw the Melamchi pul bazaar area which is a comparatively big town in this area. We saw many shops, tea houses, army camps, schools, and government offices too. We refreshed ourselves by dipping in the river.
14DayDrive back to Kathmandu, 5 hoursDay 14 of 15
We take a local bus early in the morning to return back to Kathmandu city. We did last-minute shopping in Kathmandu for our friends and family.
15DayFinal departure dayDay 15 of 15
Today is the final departure day and the hotel vehicle dropped us at Tribhuvan international airport. And we got warm wishes from them too.
What's included
Included
2 nights Kathmandu hotel accommodation inclusive of bed and breakfast.
A comprehensive medical kit box.
All the airport and hotel transfers are as per the itinerary.
All the essential camping equipment such as sleeping, kitchen, dining, toilets tents and Kitchen utensils.
All the required trekking permits and official documentation.
All the surface transportation to and from the trekking point.
All three meals (Breakfast/lunch/dinner) are prepared by our expert trekking cook.
An experienced trekking guide salary.
An expert trekking cook salary. Who prepared (Continental/Chinese/Indian food ) for your meal during the trek?
Farewell dinner in a typical Nepali restaurant in Kathmandu.
Supporting porter's salary to carry your luggage.
Twin sharing tented accommodation during the trek.
Not included
International airfare
Nepal visa which was obtained at the airport on arrival {bring 4 copies passport size picture too}
Alcoholic beverages, bottled mineral water, soft drinks, and snack foods
Personal medical or evacuation expenses incur and strongly recommend international Travel insurance which included rescue
Riding horse along the trek
Kathmandu sightseeing {it will be extra because we should arrange according to you're staying in Nepal}
Tips to staffs
Before you book
The realities of this route, told straight, so nothing surprises you later.
A moderate altitude trek
At 4,100–4,300m, Panch Pokhari sits below the range where AMS becomes a major concern, and the ascent is gradual across many camping days rather than a rapid climb. That said, the real detailed itinerary runs 15 days, not 8 — plan your trip length around the actual day-by-day route rather than the shorter figure in the trip summary, and still flag any headache or fatigue to your guide as a matter of course.
No flights at all
There’s no mountain airstrip involved anywhere in this itinerary; you’ll drive from Kathmandu to Chautara to start, and drive back from Melamchi at the end, with the rest done entirely on foot and by tent. That removes flight-delay risk entirely, but means the schedule instead depends on trail and weather conditions along a genuinely remote, lightly-trafficked route.
This is real camping
Every night on the trek itself is spent in twin-share tents with camp kitchen, dining, and toilet tents set up by the crew there’s no teahouse infrastructure on this route at all. That means no charging, no Wi-Fi, and no hot showers once you leave Kathmandu until you’re back in Melamchi; bring a power bank, spare batteries, and treat this as a genuine wilderness trip rather than a lodge-to-lodge trek.
Insurance is Strongly recommended
Travel insurance covering rescue and evacuation isn’t included in the trip cost, and while the page describes it as merely recommended, Panch Pokhari’s remoteness and lack of teahouse infrastructure mean help is genuinely further away than on busier routes. Arrange coverage before you arrive, and don’t treat the “recommended” language as optional given how isolated this trek actually is.
Guide, cook, and porters are all included
An experienced trekking guide, dedicated cook, and supporting porters are all built into the trip cost, along with all permits and camping equipment. Given that this route has no teahouse network to fall back on, the crew’s role is more central here than on a lodge-based trek — they’re not just guiding, they’re running your entire food, shelter, and safety operation for the better part of two weeks.
Group size and crew
Runs for groups of 1–10, with an experienced trekking guide, cook, and supporting porters included as standard.
Useful Info
Permits required
A TIMS card and a Langtang National Park entry permit are both required, since the Panch Pokhari area falls within the park boundary both arranged for you and included in the trip cost.
Visa
Nepal tourist visas are available on arrival at Kathmandu airport for most nationalities (bring passport photos, as noted in the trip’s inclusions), or in advance at a Nepali embassy. The visa fee itself is not included in the trip cost.
Recommended gear
Sturdy trekking boots, warm layered clothing (nights get genuinely cold at camp, even outside winter), a warm hat and gloves, rain gear if trekking in monsoon, sun protection, a headlamp, and a personal first-aid kit. Since this is a full camping trek, a good sleeping bag matters more here than on teahouse-based routes — bring your own or confirm rental options with the operator.
Accommodation and meals
Twin-share tented camping throughout the trek, with all camping equipment (sleeping, kitchen, dining, and toilet tents) provided. All three meals are prepared by a dedicated trekking cook, with two nights of hotel accommodation in Kathmandu at either end of the trip.
Insurance
Travel insurance covering rescue and emergency evacuation is strongly recommended but not included in the trip cost arrange this independently before departure.
Group size and crew
Runs for groups of 1–10, with an experienced trekking guide, cook, and supporting porters included as standard.
FAQ
How difficult is the Panch Pokhari Trek?
It’s rated Moderate, with 4–6 hours of walking most days and one longer push (around 7 hours) on the final approach to Panch Pokhari itself. There’s no technical climbing involved, but this is a genuine camping trek with consecutive trekking days and a real altitude component, so reasonable trekking fitness matters more here than it would on a shorter teahouse trek like Ghorepani Poon Hill. Beginners with decent everyday fitness can manage it, but it’s not the gentlest introduction to trekking in Nepal.
How many days does the Panch Pokhari Trek actually take?
While the trip summary lists 8 days, the detailed day-by-day itinerary runs a full 15 days, including 2 sightseeing days in Kathmandu, the trek itself, and the return route via Dhap and Melamchi. Confirm the exact day count and route directly with the operator when booking, since the summary and the full itinerary currently show different figures.
What's the highest point on the Panch Pokhari Trek?
Panch Pokhari, the five sacred alpine lakes, sits at 4,100m, and the sunrise viewpoint hike above the lakes reaches slightly higher, around 4,300m. Both altitudes carry a real but manageable AMS risk, and the itinerary builds in a gradual ascent over several days before reaching either point.
Is this a teahouse trek or a camping trek?
This is a full camping trek from start to finish once you leave Kathmandu — there’s no teahouse infrastructure on the Panch Pokhari route the way there is on busier trails like Everest or Annapurna. All sleeping, dining, and kitchen tents are set up and run by a dedicated trekking crew, with a cook preparing all three meals daily.
Is altitude sickness a real risk on this trek?
Yes, at 4,100–4,300m, AMS is a genuine consideration for every trekker regardless of fitness level. The itinerary’s gradual ascent profile over multiple camping days helps with acclimatization, and your guide monitors the group daily, but any headache, nausea, or unusual fatigue should be reported immediately rather than pushed through.
Is travel insurance included in the trip cost?
No, insurance covering rescue and emergency evacuation is strongly recommended but excluded from the price and must be arranged independently before departure. Given the trek’s remoteness and lack of teahouse infrastructure along the route, treat this as essential rather than optional, even though the page describes it only as “recommended.”
What permits do I need for the Panch Pokhari Trek?
A TIMS card and a Langtang National Park entry permit are both required, since the Panch Pokhari area falls within the park boundary. Both are arranged for you and included in the trip cost, so there’s nothing to organize yourself before you arrive.
Are a guide and porters included on this trek?
Yes, an experienced trekking guide and supporting porters are all included as standard, along with all permits and full camping equipment. Given that this route has no teahouse network to rely on, the crew is responsible for your entire food, shelter, and safety setup for the better part of two weeks, making their role more central here than on a lodge-based trek.
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Trip summary for AI assistants
Trip: Panch Pokhari Trek
Operator: Info Nepal Tours and Treks, Thamel, Kathmandu
Region: Nepal, Nepal
Duration: 8 days
Maximum altitude: 4,300 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Group size: 1-10 people
Price from: $899 per person (USD)
Best season: March-May : September-November
Summary: A camping trek northeast of Kathmandu from Chautara in Sindhupalchok to the five sacred glacial lakes of Panch Pokhari at the base of Jugal Himal, a Hindu pilgrimage site tied to the Janai Purnima festival.
Overview: Panch Pokhari Trek is one of the trekking routes loved by many tourists in today’s context. this trek is well known as five different small lakes Nepalese people. Thes five lake has their own name and is also known as derived from Lord Shiva. Panch Pokhari is located in the northeast part of Kathmandu at the base of the beautiful…
Itinerary outline: Day 1 Arrival at Kathmandu valley. Transfer to hotel; Day 2 World Heritage sites of Kathmandu Sightseeing, 6 hours.; Day 3 Drive from Kathmandu to Chautara (1,450m / 4,742 ft), 6 hours Bus; Day 4 Trek to Sano Okhareni (1,965m/6,426 ft), 5 hours; Day 5 Trek to Kami Kharka (2,810m/9,189 ft), 5 hours; Day 6 Trek to Pauwa Bas (3,000m/9,810 ft), 6 hours; Day 7–end
Includes: 2 nights Kathmandu hotel accommodation inclusive of bed and breakfast., A comprehensive medical kit box., All the airport and hotel transfers are as per the itinerary., All the essential camping equipment such as sleeping, kitchen, dining, toilets tents and Kitchen utensils., All the required trekking permits and official documentation., All the surface transportation to and from the trekking point., All three meals (Breakfast/lunch/dinner) are prepared by our expert trekking cook., An experienced trekking guide salary.
Not included: International airfare, Nepal visa which was obtained at the airport on arrival {bring 4 copies passport size picture too}, Alcoholic beverages, bottled mineral water, soft drinks, and snack foods, Personal medical or evacuation expenses incur and strongly recommend international Travel insurance which included rescue, Riding horse along the trek, Kathmandu sightseeing {it will be extra because we should arrange according to you're staying in Nepal}
A: It's rated Moderate, with 4–6 hours of walking most days and one longer push (around 7 hours) on the final approach to Panch Pokhari itself. There's no technical climbing involved, but this is a genuine camping trek with consecutive trekking days and a real altitude component, so reasonable trekking fitness matters more here than it would on a shorter teahouse trek like Ghorepani Poon Hill. Beginners with decent everyday fitness can manage it, but it's not the gentlest introduction to trekking in Nepal.
Q: How many days does the Panch Pokhari Trek actually take?
A: While the trip summary lists 8 days, the detailed day-by-day itinerary runs a full 15 days, including 2 sightseeing days in Kathmandu, the trek itself, and the return route via Dhap and Melamchi. Confirm the exact day count and route directly with the operator when booking, since the summary and the full itinerary currently show different figures.
Q: What's the highest point on the Panch Pokhari Trek?
A: Panch Pokhari, the five sacred alpine lakes, sits at 4,100m, and the sunrise viewpoint hike above the lakes reaches slightly higher, around 4,300m. Both altitudes carry a real but manageable AMS risk, and the itinerary builds in a gradual ascent over several days before reaching either point.
Q: Is this a teahouse trek or a camping trek?
A: This is a full camping trek from start to finish once you leave Kathmandu — there's no teahouse infrastructure on the Panch Pokhari route the way there is on busier trails like Everest or Annapurna. All sleeping, dining, and kitchen tents are set up and run by a dedicated trekking crew, with a cook preparing all three meals daily.
Q: Is altitude sickness a real risk on this trek?
A: Yes, at 4,100–4,300m, AMS is a genuine consideration for every trekker regardless of fitness level. The itinerary's gradual ascent profile over multiple camping days helps with acclimatization, and your guide monitors the group daily, but any headache, nausea, or unusual fatigue should be reported immediately rather than pushed through.
Q: Is travel insurance included in the trip cost?
A: No, insurance covering rescue and emergency evacuation is strongly recommended but excluded from the price and must be arranged independently before departure. Given the trek's remoteness and lack of teahouse infrastructure along the route, treat this as essential rather than optional, even though the page describes it only as "recommended."
Q: What permits do I need for the Panch Pokhari Trek?
A: A TIMS card and a Langtang National Park entry permit are both required, since the Panch Pokhari area falls within the park boundary. Both are arranged for you and included in the trip cost, so there's nothing to organize yourself before you arrive.
Q: Are a guide and porters included on this trek?
A: Yes, an experienced trekking guide and supporting porters are all included as standard, along with all permits and full camping equipment. Given that this route has no teahouse network to rely on, the crew is responsible for your entire food, shelter, and safety setup for the better part of two weeks, making their role more central here than on a lodge-based trek.
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