A short trek to Panchpokhari, Sindhupalchowk
Panch Pokhari is a collection of five sacred Hindu lakes located in Nepal's Sindhupalchowk District, recognized as the ninth-highest altitude wetland globally. This site attracts both Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims and remains relatively unexplored, preserving its natural beauty and captivating scenery. The area boasts stunning mountain views, pristine landscapes, and diverse flora and fauna, making it a must-visit destination in Nepal's remote mountainous regions.
Situated within Langtang National Park, which spans the Nuwakot, Rasuwa, and Sindhupalchowk districts of the central Himalayas, Panch Pokhari sits at an elevation of approximately 4,100 meters above sea level. This notable Hindu pilgrimage site was featured on a postage stamp by Nepal’s Postal Series Department in 2011.
The Panch Pokhari trek, located north of the Kathmandu Valley, includes the Jugal Himal range, featuring peaks such as Dorje Lakpa, Madiya, and Phurbi Chhyachu. This trek offers an immersive experience of traditional Tamang and Sherpa cultures and is ideal for visitors seeking a spiritual, serene, and scenic journey.
To reach Panch Pokhari, there are two main trekking routes. One begins from Sano Okhareni via Chautara, and the other starts from Bhotang via Melamchi. The route from Bhotang is the easiest and most preferred for trekking to Panch Pokhari.
The journey begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Bhotang, where you can explore cultural settlements, natural landscapes, stunning vistas, and diverse flora and fauna. From Bhotang, the trek continues to Deurali and then to Nasempati, passing through beautiful valleys, rivers, and streams along the way. The route then leads to Laure Bhanjyang, where you can admire terraced farmlands and more flora and fauna. Laure Bhanjyang is the final stop before reaching Panch Pokhari.
At Panch Pokhari, you can experience the incredible beauty of the wetland. The return journey involves trekking back to Tangu, continuing to Bhotang, and then driving back to Kathmandu via Melamchi.
The most popular seasons for Panch Pokhari are the seasons of spring and autumn. Autumn falls in the months of September, October, and November. Spring falls in the months of March, April, and May. Moreover, a moderate amount of sunshine and a low amount of precipitation are some of the reasons why these seasons are popular for completing this trek.