Panch Pokhari

How do you get to Panch Pokhari?

Drive five to six hours from Kathmandu to Chautara (about 1,450 m) and walk north through Kami Kharka, Pauwa Bas and Hile Bhanjyang to Nasim Pati (about 3,700 m), then on to the lakes. A shorter alternative starts from Bhotang, reached via Melamchi.

The route passes through hill villages and pine, oak and rhododendron forest before opening onto high pasture at Nasim Pati.

Lodging is simple. Teahouses around Nasim Pati cater mostly to pilgrims, and some groups camp.

Check current permit requirements before you go. The lakes lie in the Langtang National Park area.

Why is Panch Pokhari sacred?

The five lakes are a pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. On Janai Purnima, the full moon in August, large numbers of pilgrims climb up to bathe in the lakes.

If you want solitude, avoid the festival. If you want to see the pilgrimage, time your trip for it and expect monsoon weather.

What is the Panch Pokhari trek like?

A remote, unfrequented route despite being close to Kathmandu, with views of the Jugal Himal, including Dorje Lhakpa (6,966 m), Madiya (6,257 m) and Phurbi Chhyachu (6,637 m).

The lakes are one of Nepal's high altitude wetlands. A Nepali postage stamp featuring Panch Pokhari was issued in 2011.

Things to do in Panch Pokhari

1. 01

   The five lakes

   Walk the circuit of the five lakes and the shrines around them.

2. 02

   Jugal Himal views

   Clear morning views of Dorje Lhakpa and the Jugal range from above the lakes.

3. 03

   Janai Purnima festival

   The August full moon pilgrimage, when the lakes fill with pilgrims bathing in the holy water.

Frequently asked questions