The Panch Pokhari Trek is an 8-day off-the-beaten-path adventure in Nepal’s Sindhupalchowk district, located northeast of Kathmandu within Langtang National Park. This moderate trek, starting at $450 per person for a group of two or more, takes you to the sacred Panch Pokhari (Five Lakes) at 4,100 m (13,451 ft), a revered Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage site known as the ninth-highest-altitude wetland in the world. Covering approximately 50–60 km, the trek offers stunning views of Himalayan peaks like Dorje Lakpa (6,966 m), Phurbi Chhyachu (6,637 m), Madiya (6,257 m), Jugal Himal, Langtang Range, Rolwaling Range, and distant glimpses of Gaurishankar, Kanchenjunga, and Makalu. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva created these lakes to quench his thirst after consuming poison, adding spiritual significance, especially during the Janai Purnima festival in August when thousands of pilgrims visit for a holy bath.
The trail passes through pristine rhododendron, pine, and oak forests, cascading waterfalls, and traditional Tamang, Sherpa, and Hyolmo villages, offering a rich cultural experience. Trekkers may encounter wildlife such as red pandas, musk deer, Himalayan goats, and the national bird, Danfe, amidst vibrant flora, especially during spring’s rhododendron blooms. Less crowded than popular treks like Everest or Annapurna, Panch Pokhari provides solitude and unspoiled landscapes, with camping or basic teahouses as accommodation due to limited infrastructure. The trek’s moderate difficulty, with a maximum altitude of 4,300 m at a viewpoint above the lakes, requires good fitness but is accessible to beginners with preparation. Its proximity to Kathmandu (81.8 km) makes it ideal for those with limited time seeking a blend of nature, culture, and spirituality.
Visit the sacred Panch Pokhari (Five Lakes) at 4,100m, a revered Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage site.
Experience authentic Tamang and Sherpa village life with unique cultural traditions.
Trek through pristine forests and alpine meadows in the remote Jugal Himal region.
Enjoy a less crowded trail, offering solitude and untouched natural beauty.
Spot diverse wildlife, including Himalayan pheasants and possibly snow leopards.
The Panch Pokhari Trek is budget-friendly, with costs starting at $450 per person for an 8-day package, based on a group of two or more. This all-inclusive price typically includes:
Permits: Langtang National Park Entry Permit ($30 for foreigners, $15 for SAARC nationals) and TIMS card ($10 for group trekkers, $20 for solo).
Accommodation: Tented camps or basic teahouses/homestays (twin-sharing with shared bathrooms) and a 2–3-star hotel in Kathmandu for pre- and post-trek nights.
Meals: Three meals daily during trekking (breakfast, lunch, dinner), featuring Nepali Dal Bhat, momos, noodles, and occasional Western options like pasta or pancakes, with tea/coffee.
Guide and Porter: A licensed, English-speaking guide ($25–$35/day) and porter ($15–$20/day, carrying up to 20–24 kg for two people) for navigation and luggage support.
Transportation: Round-trip public bus from Kathmandu to Chautara or Bhotang (5–7 hours, $10–$15 one way) or optional private jeep ($120–$180 one way, split among 6–8 people).
Additional costs may include personal expenses (hot showers, charging, Wi-Fi: $2–$5 each at higher altitudes), travel insurance (covering up to 4,500 m), bottled water ($8–$10/day), and tips for guides/porters (10% of trek cost recommended). Solo trekkers may incur a $50–$100 surcharge, while group discounts (5–10% for 4+ people) can reduce costs. Deluxe packages with private transport or enhanced lodging may reach $750. Independent trekkers can budget $20–$25/day for food and lodging, but a guide is recommended for safety and cultural insights.
The Panch Pokhari Trek can be completed in 5–14 days, depending on pace, route, and cultural exploration. An 8-day itinerary is optimal, offering a balanced experience with 5–6 days of trekking (4–7 hours daily), a rest/exploration day at Panch Pokhari, and travel to/from Kathmandu. This duration allows sufficient time for acclimatization, cultural immersion in Tamang and Sherpa villages, and enjoying viewpoints, avoiding the rushed pace of 5–6-day itineraries or the extended commitment of 12–14-day routes that may include additional destinations like Melamchi or Sermathang. The 8-day plan suits most trekkers, providing a moderate pace for beginners and enough time to appreciate the spiritual and natural beauty of the lakes.
Stunning vistas of Jugal Himal, Langtang Lirung (7,227m), and Dorje Lakpa.
Serene views of the five holy lakes surrounded by rugged peaks at Panch Pokhari.
Lush rhododendron and pine forests, terraced fields, and high-altitude meadows.
Panoramic sunrise and sunset views from high vantage points like Nosempati (4,200m).
Suitable for moderately fit trekkers with some hiking experience.
Ideal for those seeking a remote, spiritual, and scenic trek in 8-12 days.
Appropriate for adventurers comfortable with high altitudes (up to 4,200m) and basic accommodations.
Not recommended for beginners or those with serious health issues due to remoteness and altitude.
Train with cardio exercises (hiking, running, cycling) 2-3 months prior for stamina.
Practice hill walking with a loaded backpack for 5-7 hour daily treks.
Strengthen legs and core for steep ascents and uneven terrain.
Sturdy, waterproof trekking boots with strong ankle support.
Layered clothing: moisture-wicking base layers, fleece, waterproof jacket, and down jacket.
Trekking poles, UV-protective sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.
Sleeping bag (rated for -10°C) and a 20-30L daypack.
Pack Light:
Keep your daypack to 5-7 kg; porters can carry 10-12 kg.
Avoid non-essential items like heavy electronics or extra clothing.
Use dry bags to organize and protect gear from rain or snow.
Hydration and Altitude:
Drink 3-4 liters of water daily to stay hydrated at high altitudes.
Carry water purification tablets or a filter for safe drinking water.
Monitor for altitude sickness symptoms (headache, nausea) above 3,500m.
Acclimatization:
Follow a gradual ascent itinerary to reduce altitude sickness risk.
Spend an extra day at Panch Pokhari (4,100m) for acclimatization and exploration.
Descend immediately if severe altitude symptoms (confusion, shortness of breath) occur.
Cash and Connectivity:
Carry Nepalese Rupees (NPR) in small denominations for teahouses and tips.
No ATMs after Chautara; withdraw cash in Kathmandu.
Limited or no mobile network; a local SIM (NTC or Ncell) may have spotty coverage.
Power Solutions:
Teahouses have limited electricity; carry a 10,000mAh power bank.
Solar chargers are a reliable backup in remote areas.
Expect to pay NPR 100-300 for device charging at teahouses.
Toiletries:
Pack biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, and wet wipes.
Bring a quick-dry towel and hand sanitizer for hygiene.
Carry toilet paper and a small trowel for outdoor emergencies.
Respect Local Culture:
Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, especially near sacred lakes.
Ask permission before photographing locals or religious sites.
Respect pilgrimage customs, like walking clockwise around Panch Pokhari lakes.
Permits:
Langtang National Park Entry Permit (approx. NPR 3,000 or USD 30 for foreigners).
TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card (approx. NPR 2,000 or USD 20).
Obtain permits through a trekking agency or in Kathmandu.
Best Seasons: Spring (March-May) for vibrant flora and Autumn (September-November) for clear skies. Avoid monsoon (June-August) due to muddy trails.
Trek Duration: 8-12 days, starting from Chautara (5-6 hour drive from Kathmandu).
Difficulty: Moderate, with 5-7 hours of daily walking and a max altitude of 4,200m.
Accommodation: Basic teahouses and occasional camping; meals include dal bhat, noodles, and tea.
Guides/Porters: Hiring a guide is recommended for navigation in remote areas; porters ease heavy loads.
Phone: +977-9801214198
Email: info@hairyyakadventures.com
Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) offer clear skies and mild weather. Avoid monsoon (June-August) and winter (December-February).
Moderate, with 5-7 hours of daily walking and a max altitude of 4,200m. Suitable for fit trekkers with some experience.
Langtang National Park Permit (NPR 3,000) and TIMS card (NPR 2,000), obtainable in Kathmandu or via an agency.
Basic teahouses or camping with meals like dal bhat and noodles. Limited electricity; bring a power bank.
Langtang National Park hosts Himalayan pheasants, musk deer, and possibly snow leopards or red pandas. Birdwatching is popular, so bring binoculars for a better experience.