Panch Pokhari Trek

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Trip Overview


Overview

The Panch Pokhari Trek is a mesmerizing journey through the pristine wilderness of the Langtang region in Nepal. Spanning an elevation from 1,400 to 4,100 meters, this trek offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and adventure. "Panch Pokhari" translates to "Five Lakes" in Nepali, and these holy lakes hold religious significance for both Hindus and Buddhists. The trek begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to the trailhead at Chautara, which serves as the gateway to the trekking route. As you ascend through lush forests, quaint villages, and terraced farmlands, you'll also get treatment from breathtaking views of the Langtang and Jugal Himalayan ranges. The cultural aspect of the journey shines through encounters with local ethnic communities like Tamangs, Sherpas, and Gurungs, allowing you to witness their traditions, hospitality, and daily lives. Tea houses along the route also provide cozy accommodation and warm meals, creating an authentic experience of rural Nepali living. The highlight of the Panch Pokhari Trek is reaching the five sacred lakes, nestled amidst the towering mountains. The lakes, with their crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding peaks, exude a serene and spiritual atmosphere. Many trekkers choose to visit during Janai Purnima, a festival in August, when pilgrims from different regions congregate to pay homage to the deities and take a holy dip in the lakes. Besides the religious significance, the trek rewards adventurers with diverse flora and fauna, including rhododendron forests, rare orchids, and various Himalayan wildlife like the red panda and snow leopard (rarely spotted).

Conclusion and Summary

The journey concludes with a descent back to Chautara, where you can enjoy a well-deserved rest and reflect on the unforgettable experiences of the trek. Panch Pokhari Trek is a relatively less-crowded route, making it an ideal choice for trekkers seeking tranquility, natural beauty, cultural insights, and a sense of spiritual connection with the Himalayas. Overall, this 10 to 12-day trek promises to be a soul-stirring adventure for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone seeking an off-the-beaten-path trekking experience in Nepal.

Trip Highlights


  • Adventurous hikes towards remote and less tourist destination of Nepal
  • Mesmerizing Views of the Five holy Lakes
  • Fantastic views of Mountains and landscapes during the hike.
  • Views of Dorje Lakpa, Phurbi Chhyachu, Madiya, Jugal Himal, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Rolwaling and Langtang Range
  • Rhododendron, Oak, and Juniper Forest
  • Rich cultural diversity along the trail – including Rai, Limbu, Tamang, and Sherpa ethnic groups
  • Camp outside under the stars, surrounded by a sea of mountain peaks

Itinerary


Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu and Transfer to Hotel

Pick up at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, by our team representative, upon your arrival. Then, you will be transferred to your hotel. Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 02: Kathmandu to Simpal by private land Cruiser (1813m,5 hrs)

We take a drive to the small village of Simpal relishing the countryside view throughout the ride. On our way to Simpal, we pass through Chautara, the headquarters of Sindhupalchowk district. As we drive further, alongside different rivers and streams, the settlement starts to get sparse and green hills to dominate the landscape. The drive to Simpal is only going to add thrill to the already excited you. Overnight at the home-stay in Simpal.

Day 03: Trek from Simpal to Kami Kharka (2810m/6hrs)

We begin our first day of trek gradually ascending to Sano Okhareni. We then continue to trek on a steep trail through the densely forested path. We may also encounter some wild animals like mountain deer, langur monkeys and various species of birds. Crossing several smaller settlements on the way, we reach Kami Kharka for our overnight stay. Overnight at tented camp in Kami Kharka

Day 04: Trek from Kami Kharka to Pauwa Bas (3000m, 6hrs)

Today we walk through the flat trail at first then enter the forested path filled with rhododendron, oaks, pine, and juniper trees. After about 5 to 6 hours of walk through the forest area, we get the sight of nomad’s houses for cattle on our way to Pauwa Bas. Walking through the silent and tranquil forest, we arrive in Pauwa Bas. Overnight at tented camp in Pauwa Bas

Day 05: Trek from Pauwa Bas to Hile Bhanjyang (3400m, 6hrs)

Leaving Pauwa Bas behind, we ascend through a steep trail for about 3 hours. We then steeply descend for about one and a half hours through the forested trail. It is a quiet walk through an uninhabited area. Relishing the amazing view of mountains on our way, we arrive in Hile Bhanjyang. Overnight at tented camp in Hile Bhanjyang.

Day 06: Trek from Hile Bhanjyang to Panch Pokhari (4100m, 6hrs)

We start to trek towards Panch Pokhari which is only about 4 hours of walking. We first ascend through steep trail then gently descend through the forested trail to Nasyampati from where we get an amazing mountain view. We then continue to climb up through rocky hills to finally arrive in Panch Pokhari. The holy lakes of Panch Pokhari do not only serve as a pilgrimage site of the Hindu and Buddhist devotees but are equally beautiful scenically. The temple in Panch Pokhari is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Overnight at tented camp in Panch Pokhari.

Day 07: Trek from Panch Pokhari to Tupi Danda (2320m, 7hrs)

Today, we start early morning to catch the sun rising against the Himalayas. We hike to the top of Panch Pokhari for a panoramic view of Dorje Lakpa (6966m), Gaurishankar (7134m), Jugal Himal Range, Ganesh Himal Range, Rolwaling Himal Range, and Langtang Himal Range. After spending some quality time, we return back to Panch Pokhari and head towards Tupi Danda through steep trails. Overnight at tented camp in Tupi Danda.

Day 08: Trek from Tupi Danda to Dhap (1200m, 6hrs)

Leaving behind Tupi Danda, we steeply descend for some time, and the rest of the trail is quite leveled as we walk through terraced farm fields to reach the village of Dhap. Dhap is a beautiful village inhabited by Tamang community. Overnight at tented camp in Dhap

Day 09: Trek from Dhap to Melamchi (800m, 5hrs) and drive back to Kathmandu by private Vehicle (4hrs)

For the last day of our trek, we head towards Melamchi through terraced farm fields alongside Indrawati River. We also come across a hydroelectricity project on our way to Tipeni. Upon reaching Melamchi, we drive back to the capital in our private jeep and transfer you to the hotel. Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 10: Final Departure from Kathmandu

Our team member drops you off at Tribhuvan International Airport around 3 hours before your scheduled flight back home.

Price Includes


Airport/Hotel/Airport pick up and transfer by private car/van.
* 2 nights deluxe accommodation in twin bed sharing basis with breakfast at 4* Kathmandu Guest House or Dalai-La Boutique Resort in Kathmandu.
* Meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) with Tea & coffee and hot water during the trek.
* Tented camp accommodation during the trek.
* 1 experienced, helpful and friendly guide, 1 cook and porters, their food & accommodation, salary, equipment and insurance.
* All necessary permits including TIMS Card.
* All ground transportation by private vehicle.
* Trekking camping equipment (Tent, mattress, dining tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent, kitchen utensils etc).
* Office Service charge.
* All Government Tax.

Price Excludes


Any meals (Lunch and Dinner) in Kathmandu other than breakfast.
* Travel insurance.
* International air fare to and from Nepal.
* Nepal Tourist Visa fees.
* Items and expenses of personal nature.
* Any kind of alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, snacks, laundry, phone call, internet.
* Personal Trekking Equipment.
* Emergency Evacuation (Helicopter Rescue).
* Any costs which arise due to a change of the itinerary, because of landslides, domestic flight delays, political disturbance, and strikes etc.
* Any other costs whatsoever, that is not mentioned in the cost included.
* Horse renting and additional porters due to natural calamities during the trek.
* Tips for guide, porters, driver…

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