Panch Pokhari Trek - 14 Days
14 Days
4100
Chautara/Melamchipul Bazar
Moderate
5-7 Hours Per Day
Jeep and Van
Camping
April-May/September-November
Tea House
Panch Pokhari Trek is a relatively new trekking route that offers all the perks of a popular trek minus the huge crowds that take away from your trekking experience. With the rocky hills and a snowy embrace of the mountains, the trek won’t be easy to forget.
With famous Himalayan peaks like Mt. Gaurishanker, Dorje, Lakpa, Jugal, and Langtang Himal range greeting you, you will get the motivation and excitement. You will also get to witness a sunrise over Panch Pokhari. The sight of the morning sun rays reflecting off of five pristine lakes right next to each other will surely be a sight to behold.
The trek itself will include 10 days of walking and 14 days in total. This trek will take you right into the heart of countryside beauty. From the first day of the trek itself, you will find yourself surrounded by the greenery of fields, terrace farming, and rolling hills that disappear into each other. You will be walking through lush forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron and witnessing juniper bushes high above.
Greenery aside, you will also be visiting many settlements along the way. Here, you will find yourself getting an insider’s perspective of the day-today lives in these villages. The feeling of being transported away from your crowded city life and breathing in the fresh, crisp air. The wind in your face and the mountains in front of you, what more could you ask for?
The best time for this trek is during Spring and Autumn. This trek is of moderate difficulty, so you don't need too much trekking experience. However, it is best to avoid trekking during the rainy season for your safety. The skies will also be much clearer and offer a better view during these seasons.
With Nepal Social Trek & Expedition, you can rest assured that our trained professionals are fully prepared to guide you on these trails. Whether it is history, culture, or architecture, our guides will be packing along their stories to ensure that you can truly understand the land you traverse. We also have porters and first aid kits handy so that we can ensure that all you have to do is enjoy your trek and marvel at the beauty around you.
For a trip that combines a visual, historical, and cultural trekking experience in one, the Panch Pokhari Trek is a perfect choice.
Why You’ll Love Panch Pokhari Trek
- The scenic beauty of the holy site of pilgrimage for both Buddhists and Hindus: Panch Pokhari (Five Lakes)
- Trekking through lush forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron
- Unobstructed views of peaks Mt. Gaurishanker, Dorje Lakpa, Jugal, and Langtang Himal range
- Rich biological diversity and stunning natural landscapes all through the way
- Exploring many remote settlements and observing the everyday lifestyle in such villages
- Hundreds of pilgrims visit this site every year during the full moon of August to celebrate the Janai Purnima Mela (Carnival)
Is Panch Pokhari Trek Right For You?
- The Panch Pokhari Trek can be quite demanding. You will be walking for 5-7 hours per day for nearly two weeks. You might need some mental and physical preparation to tackle this.
- Although this is a moderate difficulty terrain, we recommend maintaining some degree of physical fitness prior to this trip.Our camps in the more remote areas have the necessary amenities. You will have clean, cozy tents and hygienic food, but you may need to bring any additional materials on your own.
- The elevation on this trek crosses 3500m as we will be crossing very high passes. So there is a risk of altitude sickness. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, you need to seek medical advice before booking this trek. However, we have a comprehensive first aid kit and a trained staff on board to take care of your safety.
- The weather can be quite unpredictable. Depending on your travel time, you might want to ensure preparations for such unforeseeable events.
Day to Day Itinerary Table - Panch Pokhari Trek
| Day | Itinerary | Altitude (m) | Duration (hours) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrival at Kathmandu | 1350 | - |
| 2 | Kathmandu to Chautara (Drive) | 1200 | 4 |
| 3 | Chautara to Phusre (Trek) | 2045 | 5 |
| 4 | Phusre to Kami Kharka (Trek) | 2845 | 6 |
| 5 | Kami Kharka to Pauwa Bas (Trek) | 3000 | 5 |
| 6 | Pauwa Bas to Hille Bhanjyang (Trek) | 3400 | 2020-05-06 00:00:00 |
| 7 | Hille Bhanjyang to Nasim Pati (Trek) | 3700 | 5 |
| 8 | Nasim Pati to Panchpokhari (Five Lakes) (Trek) | 4100 | 5 |
| 9 | Panch Pokhari to Nasim Pati (Trek) | 3700 | 5 |
| 10 | Nasimpati to Dukang (Trek) | 2100 | 5 |
| 11 | Dukang to Dhap (Trek) | 1200 | 2020-06-07 00:00:00 |
| 12 | Dhap to Melamchipul Bazar (Trek) | 800 | 6 |
| 13 | Melamchipul Bazar to Kathmandu (Drive) | 1350 | 2020-03-04 00:00:00 |
| 14 | Departure Day | - | - |
Important Notes
All international trekkers must travel with a licensed guide.
- A government registered trekking agency must arrange the trek as you will be trekking through restricted regions.
- You might want to carry a universal adapter for your charging needs as we go to more remote places. You can also purchase this in shops at Kathmandu itself.
- Your trekking guide may, at times, decide to delay or alter the standard itinerary to help you achieve success on the trek in case of poor health conditions.
- As the weather can be unpredictable, you should pack a down jacket to get comfortable even if it gets cold or rains.ATMs and credit card acceptance are scarce in higher altitudes, so remember to have some cash handy for your purchases.
- You might need to carry some passport size photographs for your permits along the way.
Permits Required
The Panch Pokhari Trek falls inside the Langtang National Park of Nepal. So you will need to obtain this permit as well as a Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card.
Langtang National Park Permit
The Langtang National Park Permit fees are detailed as follows:
- USD 30 per person per entry
- USD 15 per person per entry for trekkers from SAARC countries
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card
This permit is mandatory for all trekkers traveling in Nepal. For this permit, you will need to carry some passport-sized photographs and a photocopy of your passport. The costs are detailed as follows:
- USD 20 for individual trekkers
- USD 10 for trekkers in groups
- USD 6 for individual trekkers from SAARC countries
- USD 3 for group trekkers from SAARC countries
Panch Pokhari Trek Itinerary (14 Days)
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1350m/4429 ft)
On your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you outside the arrival gate. Our representative will escort you to your hotel, where you can finish the check-in formalities. Once you settle in, our staff will brief you on the outline for the trek. In the evening, you will be joining the rest of the group for an introductory welcome dinner. The first night is all about bonding and resting up.
Highlights
- Hassle-free airport pick-up
- A detailed explanation of the itinerary
- Bonding welcome dinner with the full group
Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Chautara (1200m/3937 ft)
After a hearty breakfast, we will be setting off from Kathmandu. We will be driving to Chautara. You will take a drive along the Araniko Highway. Leaving the city behind, you will notice more greenery surrounding you as you see terraced settlements. The drive should take about 5 hours.
Once we arrive, we will have plenty of time to explore the surrounding area. From terraced hilltops to lush green forests, the fresh air will be perfect for pumping you up for your trek the next day.
HighlightsComfortable, scenic drive to ChautaraExploring terraced hilltop settlements and lush greenery.
Day 3: Trek from Chautara to Phurse (2045m/6709 ft)
We will commence our trek this morning. You will be climbing some inclines. However, the surrounding views of Mt. Gaurishanker, Dorje Lakpa, and other peaks will keep your spirits high. The trails will take you through villages and green hills where you might see the local shepherds with their grazing cattle.
This day’s trek will take you about 5 to 6 hours. Phurse is a small Tamang village that will immediately transport you into the local culture. Here, you can mingle with the locals or stroll around the village, observing the everyday lifestyle of this village.
Highlights
- Stunning views of peaks like Mt. Gaurishanker, Dorje Lakpa, and others
- Overnight at a small Tamang village, witnessing the local livelihood
Day 4: Trek from Phusre to Kami Kharka (2845m/9334 ft)
On this day, you will be climbing some more hills. However, this day’s trail rewards you with thick forests of oak and pine, along with rhododendron. Weaving in and out of natural vegetation and these lush forests are bound to make you feel one with nature itself. The majestic peaks at a distance will cheer you on along the way as this day’s trek should take you about 6 to 7 hours.
Highlights
- Trekking through thick forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron
- Glorious views of Mt. Gaurishanker, Dorje Lakpa, and Jugal Himal range
Day 5: Trek from Kami Kharka to Pauwa Bas (3000m/9843 ft)
This day, you will be crossing Kami Kharka and heading to Pauwa Bas. You will be walking for about 6 to 7 hours. This trail will take you through many settlements and beautiful hills. The vast cascading landscapes dotted with small houses will be an excellent sight to see.
Highlights
- Breathing in the crisp countryside air
- Trekking through small Nomad settlements and cascading hills
Day 6: Trek from Pauwa Bas to Hille Bhanjyang (3400m/11155 ft)
Early morning, we will be heading for some steep climbing. This trail once again takes you through some thick pine, oak, and rhododendron forests. These trees extend high up and provide shade so that you can trek on with minimal heat.
You will be walking for about 3 hours. Upon reaching Hile Bhanjyang, you will notice that as far as your eyes can see, there are hills that simply disappear into more hills. You can use the rest of the day to rest up or explore the area and marvel at the natural beauty around you.
Highlights
- Trekking through steep trails and lush pine, oak, and rhododendron forests
- Views of high rolling hills from a high vantage point
Day 7: Trek from Hille Bhanjyang to Nasim Pati (3700m/12139 ft)
We will be leaving Hile Bhanjyang and turning towards Nasim Pati. This day’s trek will only take about 4 hours. The peaks will come alive all around you as you ascend higher and higher to reach Nasim Pati. At this elevation, you can see mountain deer as well as the national bird, Danfe. The Jugal Himal range envelops you in its snowy glow and you can see nearby local settlements.
Highlights
- Panoramic views of the Jugal Himal range
- Views of mountain deer and Danfe bird
- Excellent views of the hills and valleys below
Since we are reaching elevations higher than 3500m on this day, there is some risk of altitude sickness. While the risk differs from person to person, we have our first-aid kit handy. So if any time you feel any strain or shortness of breath, be sure to inform our guide so that they can take the necessary measures to make sure you are safe.
Day 8: Day 8 Nasim Pati- Panchpokhari (Five Lakes) (4100m) Walking 5 Hours
On this day, we will be making our way up to our main destination. Panch Pokhari, which translates to five lakes, is a sight to behold. The five lakes at one location, right in the lap of a big hill, is sure to be a treat for your eyes. Depending on your travel time, you might see the surrounding area sport a thick green blanket or simply see juniper bushes all around the lakes.
These pristine lakes are considered to be a site of holy pilgrimage. You might face a dilemma about whether to marvel at the crisp reflections in these lakes or stare in awe at the rocky mountains surrounding it. We will also be witnessing a stunning sunrise from here. It will be a dawn to remember as the sun greets you from behind the icy range and glistens off the surface of five lakes.
Highlights
- Trekking up to the holy site of Panch Pokhari
- Witnessing the sunrise from this incredible vantage point
- Surrounded by the Jugal Himal range and rocky mountains
On this day, we are reaching elevations over 4000m. We will be pacing you slowly with plenty of rests. However, if you still feel any discomfort, notify your guide immediately. Be sure not to push yourself too much and stay hydrated throughout the day.
Day 9: Trek from Panchpokhari to Nasim Pati (3700m/12139 ft)
Turning our backs to these five lakes, we will make our way back to Nasim Pati. You will be traversing the familiar steep trails. Don’t be too disheartened as you leave this site as you will be quickly surrounded by green vegetation to lift you. You can use the extra time to stroll around Nasim Pati and immerse yourself in this alpine vegetation.
Highlights
- Trekking through alpine forests and hilly vegetation
- Completing your trek to Panch Pokhari and beginning your descent
Day 10: Trek from Nasimpati to Dukang (2100m/6890 ft)
We will be leaving Nasim Pati to head to Dukhang. This day’s trek will take you 6 to 7 hours and offer breathtaking views of the mountains right behind you. You will be walking through forests of both oak and bamboo. This region is popular for animals like the white monkey, Himalayan bear, and much more. Dukhang is a small Tamang village, and you can choose to walk through the village itself to get a glimpse into the local lifestyle.
Highlights
- Walking through oak and bamboo forests
- Getting a glimpse of the local lifestyle in a small Tamang village
Day 11: Trek from Dukang to Dhap (1200m/3937 ft)
On this day, we will be heading towards Dhap. You will be trailing along the Indrawati Riverbank. You will be trekking along with the serene environment, listening to the soft flow of the water, and looking around at the terrace farming all around you. You will also be walking through many settlements and getting a sneak peek into their daily lifestyle.
Highlights
- Trekking along the Indrawati river surrounded by terrace farming
- A sneak peek into villages along your way
Day 12: Trek from Dhap to Melamchipul Bazar (800m/2625 ft)
This day’s trek will take you to Melamchipul Bazar. You will once again be walking along the Indrawati River. You will gain great insight into the livelihood of the settlements of the villages and terraced lands you pass. This day’s trek will take you 6 to 7 hours. You will also see a hydropower project on your way.
Highlights
- Finding yourself amidst the countryside beauty of terraced farmlands, rivers, and fields
- Trekking past a hydropower project
Day 13: Drive from Melamchipul Bazar to Kathmandu (1350m/4429 ft)
Congratulations! You have completed your Panch Pokhari trek. You can now sit back as we will be driving back to Kathmandu. The drive will take 3 to 4 hours. You can choose to stare outside the window into the countryside, disappearing into the city, or simply scroll through your camera roll and relive your successful trek. Once we arrive at Kathmandu, you can spend the night resting or strolling around the city.
Highlights
- Comfortable drive back to Kathmandu.
- Rest of the day free for rest or strolling.
Day 14: Departure Day
And just like that, we’ve reached the end of your trip. Our representative will be taking you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. Bidding you a safe journey, a suitcase full of memories, and hoping to see you again.
The Cost Include(s)
- Private Arrival & Departure transfers on both international and domestic flights
- Assistance for the trekking gears and the shopping for the trekking equipment if required
- Welcome dinner in Kathmandu
- Langtang National Park permits and the TIMS trekking permit
- Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during trekking
- 3 Star Hotel Accommodation in Kathmandu on twin-share B/B basis
- Accommodation in lodges or camping in twin shared tents with a mattress on trek
- All camping equipment for camping including kitench, dining tents, and cooking equipment.
- All private overland transports included in the itinerary
- Nepal Social Treks Gears – sleeping bag, duffel bag for the use during the trip
- Professional local guide with extensive experience
- First Aid Kit Comprehensive
- Necessary Porters to carry all personal gear and group equipment (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
- Insurance for all staff including porters
- Assistance to evacuation in case of any kind of emergency
- Panch Pokhari Trekking map
- Nepal government tax and service fees
The Cost Exclude(s)
- Any bottled drinks other than tea and coffee
- Personal insurance for evacuation, if needed during trekking or climbing
- International airfare and airport taxes, excess baggage charges
- Any personal items and services such as laundry, hot shower, charging batteries, phone calls, etc.
- Valid Travel Insurance with Medical evacuation in case of emergency
- Nepal entry visa fees
- Unforeseeable expenses incurred due to accidents, strikes, natural calamities, political unrest, etc.
- Any personal gear for trekking
- Any tips or gratuities for the staff
Booking
Review
Great experience with Bishnu & Suman in Mardi Himal
We just finished the Mardi Himal trek with Bishnu and Suman, and couldn't be happier! Everything starting from the first contact with Nepal Social Treks was smooth, positive, and organised. Basu was extremely responsive, and answered all of my many questions promptly and kindly. The booking process was easy, and we were well supported getting ready for the trip before we got to Nepal, and after arriving in Kathmandu. Nepal Social also supplied us with gear that we didn't have and didn't really want to buy just for this trip, such as a duffel bag, sleeping bags, and trekking poles. The trek itself was such an amazing experience, and I would definitely recommend it! Our guide was Bishnu, who has a contagious appreciation for the mountains, and clearly loves what he does. He knows so much about the mountains, and was happy to share his knowledge and answer any questions I had. He was very attentive, and we felt well taken care of through our entire time with him. Suman, our porter, was equally caring and always made sure that we had everything we needed. I really couldn't have asked for a better team to take us up to the mountains. We haven't even left Nepal, and we are already thinking of our next trek! Thank you Bishnu, Suman, and Nepal Social Treks for an unforgettable experience 🙏
An Unforgettable Annapurna Circuit Trek with Nepal Social Trek
An Unforgettable Annapurna Circuit Trek with Nepal Social Trek Our group of five hiked the Annapurna Circuit arranged by Nepal Social Trek in October 2026. From the moment we landed in Kathmandu, everything was meticulously planned by the Nepal Social Trek team (Basu, Samjhana, Susheela and everyone else): transport, hotels, flights, meals, and packing our bags for the trek. After a couple of days in Kathmandu to recover from jet lag and prepare, we started our hike from Chame with Bishnu Bhatta as our guide (and mentor), supported by an excellent porter team: Nabraj, Suman and Lal Bahadur. It was our first time in Nepal, so along with the excitement came some fear of the unknown, especially the altitude and cold. Bishnu and our aamzing porter friends calmed our nerves and built our confidence. Each day began with a hearty breakfast while Bishnu walked us through the hike for the day. Long hikes were combined plenty of time to rest and meals. the Nepali teahouse food was always delicious and freshly made and very nutritious. (note: offers lots of flexibility for special dietary needs) (A touching note on Nepali culture: our guide and porters always served us first and ate only after we had finished.) At each day’s destination, our rooms and meals were already arranged, so we could rest and sleep well before the next leg. Pro Tip: The “climb high, sleep low” approach really helped us adjust to the altitude. Our route: Chame → Upper Pisang → Manang → Shree Kharka → Tilicho Base Camp → Tilicho Lake → Yak Kharka → Thorong Phedi → Thorong La Pass → Muktinath Every leg had its own challenges, and the beauty of the Himalayas is beyond description. The highlight was Thorong La Pass: a 3:30 AM start in darkness and biting cold, climbing nearly 1,000 meters to the top at about 5,416 m. Bishnu was like five guides in one, tending to each of us and making sure we all reached the top safely. It was totally worth it as the sights and scenes were breathtaking !!! And that was only half the day! The steep descent of more than 1,500 meters to Muktinath did a number on our sore joints. At Muktinath, a weather system forced a change of plans, so we headed to Pokhara for some much-needed rest. Once again, the Nepal Social Trek team rearranged all our travel and hotels seamlessly. We finished with some shopping in Kathmandu before flying home. Every one of us would love to return to this amazing country, with the Nepal Social Trek team, for more Himalayan adventures. For anyone planning their Himalayan adventure, Nepal Social Trek is the team I’d trust every time !!! Highly recommended!
Our EBC experience
Our experience in Nepal was amazing from airport pickup to hotel and our first day city tour. 2nd day we flew to Lukla airport with our guide Ramji to start our EBC trek. Ramji is the best guide for EBC with more than 25 years experience. For a few days my friend and I weren’t feeling so good with a cold and he took care of us by giving us herbal teas. We had 4 days of snow storm in the last bit before reaching base camp and nearly didn't manage to finish our trek due to paths closed with the severe storm. He however, promised us to reach base camp despite snowy and crucial conditions and gladly, we were the first to reach base camp that day!! Other guides were turning back with their groups, however not our Ramji. We are forever grateful to him that we managed to reach base camp and that he never gave up. Ramji has good english which makes it easier to communicate. He is truly a kind gentleman. I highly recommend Nepal Social treks & expeditions with Mr Ramji Darji as yr guide.
Organizamos viajes con la ayuda de Basu, después de 10 años he trabajado con varias y sin ninguna duda, Nepal Social es la mejor. Os recomiendo a Achut o Pram como guías, muchísima experiencia y eso se nota. Organizan todo tipo de viajes de aventura, no solo treks.
We had a great experience with Nepal Social Treks on our EBC trip. They handled all the planning and logistics etc and it all went smoothly. Our guide Krishna was excellent, very experienced and made it a very comfortable trek. Would highly recommend.
Good experience
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to go on the Panch Pokhari Trek?
For most treks, including this one, Spring and Autumn are the best seasons to travel. The skies are likely to be much clearer and give you an unobstructed view of the majestic peaks. Especially on this trek, the Jugal Himal range enveloping you is an excellent sight. Similarly, there is less chance of rainfall, so you can trek for long hours without worrying about slippery trails.
Could I get altitude sickness on this trek?
The elevation on this trek does exceed 4000m. While the risk of altitude sickness differs from person to person, there is still a possibility. However, we have designed the itinerary to make sure you can acclimatize properly. Our guides are certified first-aid responders fully trained to take care of you. Furthermore, our first aid kit is also fully equipped to take care of you. We recommend you maintain a steady pace and keep yourself hydrated throughout the day.
Do I need any fitness training before going on this Panch Pokhari Trek?
Yes. This trail is of moderate difficulty, so it will only need you to ensure you are moderately healthy and living an active lifestyle. However, you will be walking for 6-7 hours a day, so you might want to ensure that you prepare for this with activities like hiking, cycling, swimming, and jogging. These cardio-oriented activities should help you prepare for the upcoming trek. We recommend at least a month of active physical activity prior to this trek.
Are there provisions for ATMs or credit cards during the trek?
There are many places where you can use your ATM or credit card in Kathmandu. However, as we trek into higher and more remote villages, these facilities are bound to be rare. We advise you to carry the appropriate amount of cash with you to conduct your purchases.
What is the accommodation like in the Panch Pokhari Trek?
The main accommodation during this trek will be camping. Rest assured, there will be no compromise in terms of both comfort and safety. We will be diving the tents on a twin-share basis, and each tent will have a comfortable mattress. Our guides will ensure that the camps are set up in safe locations and cater to all your needs properly.
Is it safe to drink tap water during this trek?
We strongly suggest you refrain from drinking tap water as it is likely that your stomach will not have adjusted to the local water just yet. For your safety, only drink bottled water or properly filtered water. Additionally, you should consider carrying water purifying tablets for proper safety.
Do I need to buy travel insurance for this trek?
Yes. We recommend that you purchase insurance in your country before coming on this trek. Nepal Social Treks only covers the insurance for our staff. Please make sure that your insurance covers you for high altitude trekking.
Will there be extra porters available?
Porters are included on our trek package (1 porter per 2 trekkers). If you feel like you need personal porter help for your bags as you want to focus on the trek and enjoy the view itself, we have got you covered. Typically, a porter can carry about 20kg in weight, which includes their own backpack as well.
Trekking Gear List
The Panch Pokhari trek can be quite difficult. It takes you through uneven terrains, steep hills, and high altitudes. The weather is generally unpredictable, so it is in your best interest to prepare yourself for any situation. With this in mind, we have drawn up the following list of trekking gear that you should consider packing:
- Breathable trekking shirts, both half and full sleeves
- Water and wind-resistant trekking trousers
- Comfortable trekking shorts for walking in hot weather
- At least one thermal layer for colder conditions
- Breathable underwear
- Waterproof jacket for unexpected rains
- Light fleece jacket for warmer areas
- High-quality down jacket in case of extreme weather conditions
- Comfortable, worn-in hiking boots.
- Sandals for leisurely walking.
- High-quality hiking socks and thermal socks
- Sun protection hat
- Beanie or headband
- Inner and Outer gloves
- Good quality sleeping bag
- Camera and portable chargers
- UV protection sunglasses
- Trekking poles
- Trekking towels
- Water bottle and water purification tablets
- Any prescription medications
- Headlamp
- Spare batteries
- Hand sanitizers, sunscreen, lip balm
