Tucked within Langtang National Park, the Panch Pokhari Trek is a rewarding, off-the-beaten-path adventure that leads to five sacred glacial lakes situated at 4,050 meters—a revered shrine to Lord Shiva marked by cast-iron tridents where thousands of Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims gather during the August full moon. Traversed via steep, rugged forest paths, small pastures, and stone houses beneath the snow-capped peaks of Jugal Himal, this trail ascends through rich oak and rhododendron forests and can often present snowy ridge sections that add a thrilling challenge for adventurous trekkers. Offering a deeper, less-crowded alternative to Nepal's mainstream routes, this vibrant journey through culturally rich Tamang and Sherpa villages can comfortably be completed in just 7 days from Kathmandu.
Helambu And Panchpokhari Trekking
Helambu Panchpokhari Trek Highlights
- Sacred Five Glacial Lakes (4,050m–4,462m): Reach a pristine high-altitude wetland featuring a holy Lord Shiva shrine marked by cast-iron tridents and vibrant pilgrim traditions.
- Jugal Himal Views: Take in panoramic vistas of the snow-capped Jugal Himal range and rolling green mountain valleys.
- Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure: Trek along quiet, rugged forest trails, ridge walks, and traditional cow paths away from commercial crowds.
- Rich Sherpa & Tamang Culture: Pass through authentic mountain villages, small pastures, and traditional stone houses while experiencing local hospitality.
- Short 7-Day Itinerary: Enjoy a complete, high-altitude Himalayan trek that fits into a quick week-long journey starting directly from Kathmandu.
Within Langtang National Park lies Panch Pokhari (which translates to five ponds), situated at 4462 meters, offering an excellent and moderately difficult hike through beautiful oak and rhododendron forests with magnificent views of the snow-capped mountains of Jugal Himal. After days of traversing through the valleys, over ridges, and through culturally rich Sherpa villages, we reach Pokhari at 4050m. Here and there you will find a shrine to Shiva and a pile of cast-iron tridents. During the June/July full moon, thousands of Nepalese come to worship.
As we continue our trek, there is often snow on this ridge, making the trek more difficult; however, our team will ensure your safety. The trail ascends and descends through the picturesque forest, small pastures, stone houses, scrub growth, and cow trails. At times, the trail is very steep, rough, and eroded. This trek is ideal for the trekker looking to get off the beaten trail, who is looking for more challenge than the well-maintained popular routes in Nepal. With our guides, you are sure to find your way through this less popular but more adventurous trekking route.
The beautiful Panch Pokhara trek is also possible to do within 7 days from Kathmandu; for further details for the Panch Pokhara trek, email our tour expert. Check videos and photographs on our Facebook & Instagram accounts.
Helpful Tips / Top 10 Best Treks in Nepal
Itinerary
Arrive in Kathmandu.
Upon your arrival at the Kathmandu airport, you will be greeted by a representative from Rugged Trails Nepal who will take to your hotel. Welcome drinks upon arrival at the hotel, free time until 6 pm. Evening welcome dinner in a traditional Nepali Restaurant with authentic Nepali cuisine and cultural program.Overnight in Kathmandu Hotel.
If you arrive late at night then your dinner will be on the next day.
Sightseeing around Kathmandu.
After breakfast proceeds our short guided sightseeing tour at the Swayambhunath Temple. After Swayambhunath temple, we will visit another UNESCO World Heritage sites Patan Durbar Square, and Buddhist shrine (Bouddhanath), which is also one of the largest stupas in the world.
After sightseeing drives back to hotel and briefing of our rest of trip plan. At the same time if you have to buy any trekking gears or things for the rest of the days Guide will help take you to the trekking equipment store in Thamel.
Kathmandu drive to Chautara and trek to Syaule.
Syaule trek to Kamikharka Danda.
Kamikharka Danda trek to Chyochyo Danda.
Chyochyo Danda trek to Hile Bhanjyang.
Hile Bhanjyang trek to Nasem Pati
Nasem Pati trek to Panch Pokhari.
Rest and exploration day in Panch Pokhari.
Panch Pokhari trek to Gai kharka.
Gai Kharka trek to Yangri.
Yangri trek to Laghang Gompa.
Laghang Gompa trek to Tarkheghyang.
Tarkheghyang trek to Melamchi Gaon.
Melamchi Gaon trek to Tharepati.
Tharepati trek to Kutumsang.
Kutumsang trek to Chisapani.
Chisapani trek to Sundarijal and drive back to Kathmandu
Final Departure.
Transferred to the international airport on your flight schedule and if some have extra days in Nepal they can continue with other activities. If any help is needed for further plans feel free to contact rugged trails Nepal team.
Trip Map & Altitude
Cost Details
What’s Included
- Full Board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) in Trekking.
- Accommodation during the trek (local lodge).
- The government registered English-speaking local expert guides, porters.
- Langtang National Park fees, TIMS Card.
- Accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- Guided tour in the city with an expert tour guide.
- Welcome dinner in the city
- Insurance for all staff & porters.
- Transportation to and from the starting and ending points of the trek (Depends on price quotes)
- First Aid Kit.
- Helambu Panch Pokhari Trekking Map for Each Member
- Salary, allowances, expenses & insurance for all staff including porters
What’s Excluded
- Lunch & dinner during hotel stay in Kathmandu
- Personal gears & clothing (available on hire)
- Tips, any expenses table drinks, snacks while walking
- Personal insurance and medical evacuation in case of emergency.
- Service other than mentioned above
- Expenses incurred due to accidents, landslides, strikes, political unrest, etc.
- International airfare and airport taxes.
- Items of personal nature expenses such as alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, laundry, mineral water
- Entrance fees during sightseeing in the city.


