Panch Pokhari Short Trek is named after a group of five holy alpine freshwater lakes situated in Sindhupalchowk district. Although it is one of the short treks in Nepal and lies close to Kathmandu, it is less frequented. This is a moderate type of trekking in Nepal that you can cover within a short period. You can witness the snowcapped peaks of Langtang region, Rolwaling region, Jugal Himal and Gaurishankar Himal.
One of the new trekking regions of Nepal, Panch Pokhari is a network of five alpine lakes. It is the 9th highest altitude wetland in the world that is protecting a large variety of wildlife and vegetation. The five lakes are named Surya Kunda, Bhairav Kunda, Ganesh Kund, Naag Kund and Saraswati Kund (‘kund’ or ‘Pokhari’ means ‘pond’). The lakes situated at 4,100 metres are dedicated to Lord Shiva, the creator of universe according to Hindu religion.
To participate or observe the celebration of Panch Pokhari Lakes, you should plan this trek in the third week of August. During Janai Purnima Festival, there are thousands of pilgrims from Nepal and India make a pilgrimage to pay homage to Lord Shiva. It is equally sacred place for Buddhist and Hindu people. From here, you can have the astounding view of Mt. Dorje Lakpa (6,966m), Madiya (6,257m), Phurbi Chhyachu (6,637m) and Jugal Himal (5,825m).
You have to drive along the pitched and off-road from Kathmandu up to Bhotang Village via Melamchi Bazaar. You can observe the Himalayan vistas, high altitude villages dwelt by Newar, Sherpa and Tamang ethnic communities. The diverse flora and fauna of Langtang National Park are other attractions of this off the beaten path trekking in Nepal. Kathmandu Panch Pokhari trekking itinerary ranges from 4 days to 14 days depending on your vacation, desire and budget.
You can do this trek all times of the year as it is a moderate type of trekking. The highest altitude to reach is 4,100 metres from the sea level and there are no high Himalayan passes to cross. Although the trail is rugged and windy in some section, you can reach the destination without any mishaps. For this, you have to follow the instructions of the trekking guide and take some precautions. Orbit Alpine Adventure has designed 7 days’ itinerary for exploring the chain of five alpine lakes in very short time. For more information about the tailor-made trekking packages, contact us via different available media.
FAQs:
1. Where is Panch Pokhari?
Panch Pokhari is a group of five holy lakes declared as the 9th highest placed wetland in the world. It lies in Sindhupalchowk district located close to the Kathmandu Valley, which can be reached within four days of trekking. Trekking to Panch Pokhari is combination of driving and hiking along the off-road to rugged trail. If you want to make a travel to this region, you will get to experience teahouse trekking and camping trekking. Although it is quite close from Kathmandu, it is less frequented by the national and international trekkers due to less publicity.
2. What is the best time for Panch Pokhari short trek?
Actually, Panch Pokhari short trek can be done throughout the year as the highest altitude to reach is just 4,100m. The best time for this trek is spring when rhododendron flowers beautify the forests of Langtang National Park. Similarly, you can have the best picturesque view of the snow-clad peaks of Langtang, Rolwaling, Gaurishankar and Jugal Himal region. For more details, you can reach us via email, phone calls, WhatsApp or online inquiry services.
3. Can I do Panch Pokhari trek solo?
Of course, you can do Panch Pokhari trek solo because there is not any restricted area in this region. You just need TIMS card and Langtang National Park Entry Permit to trek to Panch Pokhari Lakes. However, we highly recommend you to hire a professional trekking guide and a porter with you. They can help you in case of any health problem or missing of the right track.
4. How far is Panch Pokhari trek?
Panch Pokhari trek is one of the shortest treks of Nepal that lies in Sindhupalchowk district close to Kathmandu Valley. You can complete the trekking to Panch Pokhari within 4 days up to 14 days as per your desire and vacation. You can drive up to Bhotang Village and then walk up to Panch Pokhari Lakes within a single day. But we suggest you to cover the distance between Bhotang village and Panch Pokhari in two days for comfort.
5. How difficult is Panch Pokhari Lakes Trek?
Talking about Panch Pokhari Lakes trek difficulty, it is a moderate type of trekking in Nepal. The highest altitude to reach is 4,100 metres and there are not high Himalayan passes to cross. You don’t have to walk more than eight hours a day and the itinerary is very short to match your limited vacation in Nepal.