Panch Pokhari Trek

Panch pokhari trek
Customize Trip
At a Glance
Duration10 Days
Trip GradeModerate
Maximum Altitude4,100 meters
StartsKathmandu
Travel StyleTrekking, Walking
Best TimeMarch to May, September to November

The Panch Pokhari Trek is a remote and culturally rich trekking route in the Sindhupalchowk district of Nepal, northeast of Kathmandu. It is named after five sacred alpine lakes “Panch Pokhari” meaning “Five Lakes” in Nepali which hold deep religious significance for both Hindus and Buddhists. These pristine lakes, situated at an altitude of 4,100 meters (13,451 feet), are a popular pilgrimage site, especially during the Janai Purnima festival, when hundreds of devotees gather to take a ritual bath in the holy waters.

This trek offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, spiritual ambiance, and cultural exploration. The trail passes through lush forests of rhododendron and pine, terraced fields, and traditional villages inhabited by ethnic groups such as the Tamang, Sherpa, and Chhetri communities. Trekkers can immerse themselves in the local way of life while enjoying breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges, including Jugal Himal, Langtang, and even glimpses of Everest on clear days.

Unlike the more commercialized trekking routes in Nepal, such as the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp, the Panch Pokhari Trek remains relatively untouched by mass tourism. This makes it ideal for those seeking solitude, serenity, and a more off-the-beaten-path adventure. The trek is considered moderately difficult as it doesn’t require technical climbing but does involve some steep ascents and high-altitude trekking.

In addition to its natural and cultural appeal, the Panch Pokhari Trek offers a deeply spiritual experience that sets it apart from many other Himalayan trekking routes. The five lakes themselves are considered sacred, and their mythology is tied to both Hindu and Buddhist beliefs. It is believed that the gods themselves meditated in the peaceful surroundings of these lakes, and many locals still regard the area as a place of divine energy. During Janai Purnima, a full moon festival in August, the area transforms into a vibrant gathering of pilgrims who perform rituals, chant prayers, and offer blessings at the temples and shrines located near the lakes.

The journey to Panch Pokhari begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Chautara, the district headquarters of Sindhupalchowk. From there, the trek leads through remote villages such as Kami Kharka, Pauwa Bas, and Hille Bhanjyang. These settlements offer a glimpse into traditional mountain lifestyles, often with homestays or basic teahouses that allow trekkers to engage directly with local hosts. As you ascend, the environment shifts dramatically, from terraced fields and dense forests to alpine meadows and rocky ridgelines. The final ascent to the lakes is both challenging and awe-inspiring, with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks surrounding the sacred waters.

One of the most appealing aspects of the Panch Pokhari Trek is its relative solitude. Due to its remote location and lack of commercial development, the trail sees far fewer trekkers than more popular routes in Nepal. This gives travelers a chance to experience the raw, untouched beauty of the Himalayas and to connect more deeply with the environment and local culture. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker looking for a new challenge or a spiritual seeker drawn to the serenity of sacred places, Panch Pokhari delivers an unforgettable Himalayan journey.

Highlights of the Panch Pokhari Trek

  • Sacred lakes at 4,100m: Dip your fingers in Panch Pokhari’s icy waters which is Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims site.
  • Village vibes: You can soak in tamang villages experience the village vibes in Nepal.  
  • Trail buffet: Swap terraced farms for bamboo mazes, rhododendron riots (spring’s a pink fever dream), and meadows where yaks’ side-eye your snacks.
  • Spot Rare wildlife: Spot Nepal’s national bird, the monal (it’s like a peacock snorted glitter), and red pandas napping in trees that are better than any zoo.  
  • Spiritual site exploration: Spin prayer wheels at cliff-clinging monasteries, add a rock to a mani wall, and maybe find inner peace (or at least lose your blisters).  
  • Ancient highways: Walk stone paths worn smooth by traders, goats, and ghosts. Touch carvings that are centuries older.  

What to expect during the Panch Pokhari Trek?

The Panch Pokhari Trek, nestled in Nepal’s Sindhupalchowk district, offers a blend of rugged wilderness, cultural richness, and spiritual serenity. This remote journey takes trekkers through dense forests, terraced farmlands, and high-altitude landscapes, culminating at the sacred cluster of five glacial lakes revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. Unlike crowded trails, Panch Pokhari remains untouched by mass tourism, making it ideal for those seeking solitude and raw natural beauty.  
 
The trek typically begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Chautara, a scenic town providing the first glimpse of the Himalayas. From here, trails wind through traditional Tamang and Sherpa villages, where life moves at the rhythm of seasons. You’ll pass terraced fields of barley and potatoes, cross wooden bridges over rushing rivers, and navigate steep ascents shaded by rhododendron and pine forests. Locals often greet trekkers with warm smiles, offering insights into their agrarian lifestyle and ancient customs. Homestays or basic teahouses provide lodging, allowing immersive cultural exchanges over shared meals of dal bhat or butter tea.

As elevation increases, the landscape transforms. Beyond 3,000 meters, forests give way to alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers in spring and summer. The air thins, and the trail grows steeper, demanding a slower pace. Acclimatization days are crucial to avoid altitude sickness, especially before reaching Panch Pokhari at 4,100 meters. The final ascent to the lakes is challenging but rewarding it takes you through a stark, windswept plateau where five turquoise lakes shimmer against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks like Dorje Lakpa and Madiya. Pilgrims visit during Janai Purnima (August) to bathe in the sacred waters, believing it purifies sins. Even outside festival times, the site exudes a meditative calm, with prayer flags fluttering over stone shrines.

Weather here is unpredictable clear mornings can shift to fog or snowfall within hours. Winters are harsh, while monsoon rains (June–September) make trails slippery. The best seasons are autumn (October–November) for stable skies and spring (March–April) for blooming rhododendrons. Physically, the trek demands moderate fitness, with 6–7 hours of daily hiking over rocky, uneven paths. Porters or guides are advisable, as routes are less marked, and infrastructure is basic.

Ultimately, Panch Pokhari is more than a trek it’s a journey through Nepal’s spiritual heart and untamed wilderness. The absence of crowds amplifies its raw charm, leaving trekkers with a profound connection to nature and the resilient communities that call these mountains home.

Why choose Regal Nepal Treks and Expedition for Panch Pokhari Trek?

At Regal Nepal Treks, we don’t just move feet from one point to another, we craft journeys where heartbeats sync with the rhythm of the trails. Think of us as your backstage crew to Nepal’s wildest, most soul-stirring shows. Forget ticking off destinations; here, the magic’s in the between the shared laughter with a farmer over milky tea, the silent awe as dawn cracks over Annapurna, the blisters you’ll proudly wear like badges of honor.

Our guides are born in these hills. Not just map-readers, but storytellers who’ll point out the cliff where their grandfather herded goats, or the hidden spring where gods are said to sip. These aren’t hired hands but they’re your bridge to secret Nepal, the one that doesn’t make guidebooks but leaves fingerprints on your soul.

We’re paranoid about your safety in the best way. Your pre-trek briefing isn’t a PowerPoint snooze-fest; it’s your guide eyeballing your boots like a hawk, swapping laces if they’re sketchy. We’ve got first aid kits stocked with more than band aids and escape routes mapped like love letters to common sense. But don’t worry we’re not the fun police. “Safe” here means you’re free to gawk at yaks without face-planting into a dung pile. 

Choosing us isn’t booking a trip it’s joining a tribe. You’ll crash village festivals, high-five kids who know five trail jokes, and sleep under skies so star-crammed, you’ll swear they’re showing off. By the time you limp back to Kathmandu, you won’t just have photos, you’ll have a story etched in mountain stone. And hey, that’s a souvenir no duty-free sells.

Itinerary
Outline Itinerary
Day 01
Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 02
Drive from Kathmandu to Chautara
Day 03
Trek from Chautara to Phurse
Day 04
Trek from Phurse to Kami Kharka
Day 05
Trek from Khami Kharka to Pauwa Bas
Day 06
Trek from Pauwa Bas to Hille Bhanjyang
Day 07
Trek from Hille Bhanjyang to Panch Pokhari
Day 08
Trek from Panch Pokhari to Nasim Pati
Day 09
Trek from Nasim Pati to Dhap
Day 10
Drive Back to Kathmandu
Tour Plan
Day 01

Upon arriving at Tribhuvan international airport in Kathmandu, it will hit you with that familiar chaos honking bikes, street vendors, the smell of incense. You will be greeted by our cheerful team members at an entrance of the airport. Our team will help you check into your hotel, dump your bags, and then you can wander Thamel if you’re up for it. You can grab a cheap fleece or a knockoff North Face jacket if you forgot something. Later, your guide will meet you over tea for trip briefing and about the trail’s remoteness.

Day 02

The drive to Chautara is a classic Nepal road trip pothole, cliff edges, and jaw-dropping valley views. You’ll stop at a roadside shack for dal bhat, watching trucks painted like rainbows rumble past. By dusk, you will be in Chautara, a sleepy town where everyone seems to know each other. You can have chat with guesthouse owner pointing to the horizon and saying “See that ridge” You’ll be there in three days.”

Day 03

You will trek to Phurse letting your legs remember what hiking feels like. The trail weaves through villages where kids yell “Namaste!” and old women spin wool. Lunch is noodles at a teahouse with chickens pecking at your boots. By afternoon, you’re in Phurse, a handful of stone houses flanked by potato fields. You will be spending night at the tea house in Phurse.

Day 04

You will trek through the thick forest, and the crispier air. Rhododendrons bloom neon pink in spring like walking through a fairy tale. You might feel breathless while trekking but beautiful scenery makes it worth it. At Kami Kharka, yaks graze nearby, their bells clanking. Dinner is garlic soup (against altitude sickness) and a dubious-looking veg curry. You sleep in all your clothes, shivering and thinking about trail ahead.

Day 05

On your 5th day of the journey you will notice trees vanishing and the world turning rocky and raw. You hike slower, sipping water like it’s gold. Pauwa Bas is just two lodges and a wind-battered prayer flag. You can sit on a bench, staring at peaks you still can’t name after you reach Pauwa Bas.

Day 06

Today’s trail feels like climbing a staircase built by giants. Rocks slip under your boots. Near the pass, you crunch through leftover snow. Hille Bhanjyang lodges are basic with thin plywood walls and a stove that barely works. You huddle with other trekkers, swapping stories. At night, your breath fogs the sleeping bag. You miss your bed in nights as you will be sleeping in your sleeping bags.

Day 07

The climb to the lakes is brutal. But five turquoise pools, silent except for wind. Pilgrims murmur prayers makes it worth. You take off your boots, soak your feet in icy water, and instantly regret it. The guide says Hindus believe the lakes cleanse sins. You will explore the place that hums with something cultural and spiritual.

Day 08

You will be descending to Nasim Pati on your 8th day of Panch Pokhari Trek. You cross Laurebina Pass, lungs burning at 4,600m. You will see breathtaking view of a pyramid peak pokes above the clouds i.e. Everest. You will see Everest while trekking to Nasim Pati which is one of the best scenery ever.

Day 09

The trail drops through forests smelling of pine and damp earth. Villages reappear, kids selling wild berries, men chopping wood. In Dhap, you will have lunch and you can also drink raksi (local moonshine) with the porters. They teach you Nepali swear words which you are terrible at them making everyone laugh and you realize you’ll miss this.

Day 10

The jeep back to Kathmandu feels like a time machine. You pass the same rivers, the same toothless grins at tea stalls. Back in the city, you shower for an hour after days in trail. At dinner, you flip through photos and keep memories for lifetime marking farewell to Panch Pokhari Trek in Nepal.

Cost Details
Included
  • Airport transfers in Kathmandu
  • Your hotel stays in Kathmandu and on the trek (teahouses or camps)
  • All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • An English-speaking certified trekking guide
  • Porters to help carry your luggage (one porter per two trekkers)
  • Permits for the trek and park entry fees
  • A basic first aid kit and emergency support
  • A welcome meeting and dinner in Kathmandu before the trek
  • Domestic flights if needed to get to the start of the trek
  • Ground transportation as planned in the itinerary
  • A map of the trekking area
  • Equipments like sleeping bags and down jackets
Additional Info

Food and Accommodation

During the Panch Pokhari trek you will accommodate in simple and basic tea houses run by locals. The facilities here are basic but comfortable. Whereas you will get your meals at the same place which are hearty and basic. Let's take a brief look at accommodation and food during this trek.

The accommodations here won’t grace the pages of a luxury travel magazine and that’s precisely why they matter. Nights unfold in weathered teahouses, their wooden walls etched with decades of trekker tales, or in sturdy tents pitched under skies so vast they humble even the most restless minds. These spaces are stripped of pretension: think creaking floorboards, wool blankets that smell of campfire smoke, and lanterns casting golden pools of light on dog-eared maps. There’s no room for excess here. You sleep deeply, lulled by the murmur of wind or the distant clatter of a kitchen where someone’s always boiling another pot of tea.  

Meals are earthy and uncomplicated, yet they linger in memory like a favorite folk song. Dal bhat, the hearty lentil stew served with rice and greens—becomes a daily anthem of sustenance, each steaming bowl a reminder that nourishment doesn’t need flair to feel like a feast. You’ll savor butter tea pressed into your hands by a smiling lodge keeper, its saltiness mingling with the crisp mountain air. Breakfasts of Tibetan bread and honey taste like sunlight, and every shared pot of noodles with fellow hiker’s sparks conversations that meander like the trails outside.

Booking with us

Trekking to Panch Pokhari with Regal Nepal Treks and Expedition is one of those experiences that feels both adventurous and deeply grounding. First off, booking with is isn’t just about convenience it’s about trust. Imagine scrolling through endless Google reviews at midnight, wondering if the company actually cares about their porters or just wants your cash. You’ll want to check if they’re registered with Nepal’s Tourism Board (a non-negotiable) and skim reviews for phrases like “they handled altitude sickness like pros” or “our guide felt like family.” If sustainability matters to you, shoot them a quick email asking how they support local villages. The good ones won’t dodge the question.  

Once you’re ready to commit, the process is pretty straightforward. You can message us through WhatsApp or email because, everyone in Nepal uses it and toss in your dates and any quirks you want. We send back an itinerary that looks like a choose-your-own-adventure: 10 days of forests, villages, and those jaw-dropping alpine lakes. You’ll have to pay a deposit of 10% as an advance.

Now, let’s talk guides and gear. We provide you up with a guide who is equal parts storyteller and safety guru. They know more about hidden Himalayan monal (think: disco-ball bird) and knew exactly when to slow our pace to avoid altitude headaches. Porters are the unsung heroes. Our porters are experienced and these folks carry the weight so you can snap photos of rhododendron blooms instead of gasping under your backpack.

Permits sound boring, but they’re your golden ticket. Regal Nepal Treks and expedition handle the TIMS card and national park fees just make sure your travel insurance covers altitudes up to 4,100m (because helicopter evacuations aren’t cheap). We will meet you in Kathmandu for a briefing and check essential gears. If you forgot a sleeping bag, we will likely rent you one.