Paanch Pokhari Trek Guide.

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Overview / Introduction

High above the green valleys of Sindhupalchowk lies one of Nepal’s most peaceful and spiritually powerful destinations — Paanch Pokhari, meaning Five Lakes. Situated about 118 km northeast of Kathmandu, this area remains a hidden gem for both trekkers and pilgrims. At an altitude of roughly 4,100 meters, the five emerald lakes are believed to be abodes of divine energy and purity, drawing hundreds of devotees every Janai Purnima.

The Paanch Pokhari Trek Package by Guru Travels Ltd. takes you through a landscape of dense rhododendron forests, remote Tamang villages, cascading waterfalls, and majestic mountain views. Unlike crowded routes like Everest or Annapurna, Paanch Pokhari remains serene and unspoiled. It’s a perfect blend of spiritual retreat and Himalayan adventure, ideal for travelers seeking solitude and authentic local culture.

At Guru Travels Ltd., we focus on responsible tourism and community support. Our experienced guides and local crew ensure your trek is safe, comfortable, and meaningful — a journey of discovery that connects your soul with Nepal’s sacred mountain heritage.

Tour Highlights

  • Trek through untouched mountain landscapes and rhododendron forests.
  • Visit five sacred lakes believed to represent the five elements of nature.
  • Experience vibrant Tamang culture and local mountain hospitality.
  • Breathtaking panoramas of Jugal Himal, Dorje Lakpa, Gaurishankar & Ganesh Himal.
  • Observe rare flora and fauna of Langtang National Park corridor.
  • Sunrise and sunset views over the lakes at over 4,000 m altitude.
  • Offbeat route — peaceful, less commercial, ideal for meditation and photography.
  • Fully guided by Guru Travels Ltd., Nepal’s trusted travel brand.\

 

Major Sights & Attractions

Attraction

Description

Unique Fact

Paanch Pokhari (Five Lakes)

A series of five holy alpine lakes at approximately 4,100 m, worshipped by Hindus & Buddhists. Pilgrims bathe here during Janai Purnima.

Nepal’s 9th highest wetland; largest group of high-altitude lakes in Sindhupalchowk.

Dorje Lakpa (6,966 m)

Snow-covered peak visible throughout the trek, a spiritual symbol of peace and divine strength.

One of the most photogenic mountains close to Kathmandu Valley.

Jugal Himal Range

Cluster of lesser-known peaks forming the northern skyline, visible from multiple ridges.

Part of the southern rim of the Tibetan Plateau.

Tamang Villages (Bhotang, Chimti)

Home to Tamang & Sherpa communities known for their hospitality and culture.

Visitors can taste yak butter tea and millet wine.

Rhododendron Forests

Forests that bloom red, pink & white in spring, offering colorful trekking routes.

Rhododendron arboreum is Nepal’s national flower.

Indravati River Source

Glacial streams from the lakes feed the Indravati River, vital for nearby villages.

Forms a major tributary of the Sunkoshi River system.

Viewpoint Ridge

High vantage point ideal for sunrise, sunset, and reflection photography.

Best drone and landscape photography location of the trek.

 

Duration & Destinations Covered

Trip Length: 8 Days / 7 Nights
Destinations: Kathmandu → Chautara → Bhotang → Paanch Pokhari → Kathmandu
Trekking Distance: ≈ 55–60 km round trip
Highest Elevation: 4,100 m
Trip Grade: Moderate to challenging
Accommodation: Teahouses / Camping

Detailed Route Map: Kathmandu Paanch Pokhari


Below is the detailed route breakdown for the journey from Kathmandu to Paanch Pokhari. This includes road segments, trekking sections, approximate distances, altitudes, and estimated travel times. It is designed to help trekkers and travelers plan their route effectively

Segment

Route Description

Distance (Approx.)

Altitude (m)

Time (Approx.)

Kathmandu → Bhaktapur → Banepa

Follow Araniko Highway (BP Highway), scenic valley views.

27 km

1,400 → 1,450 m

1 hr

Banepa → Dhulikhel → Panchkhal

Gradual climb with green hills; tea stop at Dhulikhel.

25 km

1,550 m

45 min

Panchkhal → Melamchi → Indrawati Bridge

Narrow mountain highway with river and terrace fields.

32 km

1,400 m

1.5 hrs

Indrawati Bridge → Bhotang Village

Drive along gravel road; passes Gyalthum & Tipeni villages.

40 km

1,700 m

2 hrs

Bhotang → Chautara → Trek Start Point

Final stretch on jeep road to trailhead.

12 km

1,800 m

45 min

Trekking Route: Chautara → Phusre → Narsing Gumba → Paanch Pokhari Lakes

Trekking begins from Chautara; ascend through forests and alpine zones.

~55–60 km round trip

Up to 4,100 m

5 days trek

Return: Paanch Pokhari → Bhotang → Kathmandu

Descend same trail, drive back same highway.

~100 km total

4,100 → 1,400 m

7 hrs drive

  

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day

Route & Activities

Altitude (m)

Distance / Duration

Meals (B/L/D)

Day 1

Arrival in Kathmandu – Meet Guru Travels representative, transfer to hotel, trek briefing and equipment check.

1,400

1 hr transfer

D

Day 2

Drive from Kathmandu to Chautara – Scenic mountain drive via Araniko Highway, acclimatization walk in the evening.

1,450

5–6 hrs drive

B/L/D

Day 3

Trek from Chautara to Sano Okhreni – Through terraced farmlands, pine and rhododendron forests.

2,000

6 hrs trek

B/L/D

Day 4

Trek to Narsing Gumba – Visit a local monastery and experience Tamang culture.

2,700

5 hrs trek

B/L/D

Day 5

Trek to Paanch Pokhari Base Camp – Enjoy stunning views of Dorje Lakpa and Jugal Himal.

3,700

5 hrs trek

B/L/D

Day 6

Hike to Paanch Pokhari Lakes – Visit all five sacred lakes, photography and meditation, descend to camp.

4,100

4 hrs hike

B/L/D

Day 7

Descend via Bhotang Village, drive back to Kathmandu – Farewell dinner and certificate distribution.

1,400

6 hrs trek + 5 hrs drive

B/L/D

Day 8

Departure or optional sightseeing of UNESCO sites in Kathmandu.

-

-

B

 

Accommodation & Meals

Accommodation: Basic teahouses and camping on trek; 3-star hotel in Kathmandu.
Meals: Three meals per day (B, L, D) during trek. Freshly cooked Nepali and Continental food.

Inclusions

  • Airport transfers and hotel stay in Kathmandu.
  • Private transport Kathmandu ↔ Chautara.
  • All trekking permits and national park fees.
  • Accommodation (teahouse/camping) during trek.
  • Meals during trek (B, L, D).
  • English-speaking guide and porter service.
  • First aid kit & oxygen cylinder.
  • Map, duffel bag, and trek completion certificate.

Exclusions

  • Nepal visa fees & international flights.
  • Personal insurance covering high altitude trekking.
  • Trekking gear or sleeping bags.
  • Drinks, snacks, or hot showers.
  • Tips for guide & porter.
  • Emergency evacuation if needed.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March–May) and Autumn (Sept–Nov) are the best seasons for clear skies and moderate temperatures. Winter brings cold but crisp weather, while monsoon months (Jun–Aug) are not recommended due to rain.

Customization Options

Guru Travels Ltd. offers flexibility to customize your Paanch Pokhari Trek. Combine it with Helambu or Langtang Valley, add Kathmandu sightseeing, or opt for a helicopter return. Student discounts and private group options are available.

Why Book with Guru Travels Ltd.

·        Nepal’s First Public Limited Travel Company – transparent and reliable.

·        Local expertise with professional mountain guides.

·        Personalized service and safety-first approach.

·        Support for local communities and eco-tourism.

·        24/7 customer support and emergency response.

Call to Action

Are you ready to walk to the sacred five lakes of Paanch Pokhari? Contact Guru Travels Ltd. for expert-guided trekking packages, flexible dates, and the best Himalayan experiences.


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