Mountains and colorful rhododendron forest (Spring) To know more about the sherpa local folks, their culture, tradition, and lifestyle (Panch Pokhari Trek)
Days: 11-Difficulty: 2 of 5 (Moderate)
Panchpokhari Trek is one of the newly opened trekking routes in Nepal, which includes the sacred and ancient group of five ponds at the foot of Jugal Himal. Panchpokhari, located in the forest of the northeastern part of Sindhupalchok district, is a holy place of pilgrimage for Hindus and Buddhists. The lake is located at an altitude of 4010 meters in a beautiful natural environment surrounded by the various Himalayas. The Panchpokhari trek is an easy and short trek for those who have limited time but want to get closer to the Himalayas.
After reaching Kathmandu, the trek starts. After the day of arrival, the journey continues with a simple drive, which is one day away from Kathmandu. The trail cuts through dense forest areas of blue pine, oaks, maple, spruce, and rhododendrons (a quarter of Valley Park is all green forest). The way to Panchpokhari. The starting point of the trek. Pedestrians from various settlements of the Sherpa and Tamang communities have the opportunity to understand the Himalayan culture and lifestyle. The trail comes in beautiful landscapes, waterfalls, alpine forests, temples, and more. Dorje Lakpa (6,966 m), Phurbi Chhachu (6,637 m), Madiya (6,257 m), Rolling Himal, Ganesh Himal and Langtang Himal.
Panchpokhari (4,100 m) is located at a distance and if we want to visit this area it offers panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayas. After visiting the area, we return to Kathmandu via Melamchi.
Trip Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu (1350m)
Day 02: Free day and trek preparation
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Simple (1,813m), 6/7 hrs
Day 04: Trek to to Kami Kharka (2,810m) 5/6 hrs
Day 05: Trek to Pauwa Bas (3,000m) 5/6 hrs
Day 06: Trek to Hile Bhanjyang (3,400m) 6/7 hrs
Day 07: Trek to Panch Pokhari (4,100m) 4/5 hrs
Day 08: Trek to Tupi Danda (2,320m) 6 hrs
Day 09: Trek to Dhap (1,200m) 5/6 hrs
Day 10: Trek to Melamchi for 5 hours and drive to Kathmandu
Day 11: Departure from Kathmandu
Join us on the Panch Pokhari Trek in 2022/2023
Customize your trek: This is a general itinerary, which can always be “tailormade” personally. The trek package can be redesigned or redeveloped according to your taste, for more information please email us at info@alpinetrav.com/
Get group discounts (save your budget and enjoy your trip.
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport and after completing the visa formalities and collecting your luggage at the airport, please exit the arrival hall. Your tour leader will wait for you outside the arrival hall and take you to your hotel. Please look for the AlpineTrav Treks & Expeditions placard when exiting the arrivals hall. And upon arrival at the hotel, welcome drinks will be served and after you freshen up, your trek leader will brief you about your journey in the evening at your hotel lobby. And your free time. Get familiar with your surroundings by taking a walk down the street.
Today after breakfast we will start our tour of major historical sites of Kathmandu with our professional tour guide. Some of these landmarks are considered World Heritage Historic Sites and as we visit the places, the more diverse cultural milieu of the valley welcomes us with warm hospitality. Such as the Palace Square, the famous ‘Monkey Temple’ (Swayambunath), and the Buddhist Temple (Buddha Nath) which is one of the largest stupas in the world. . After returning from the tour there will be a pre-trip discussion with our trek leader and other team members. The trek guide will give you a brief orientation about your trek. And the rest of the time you can visit Thamel and shop for necessary equipment and other essentials.
Today we visit the small village of Simpal enjoying the scenery of the countryside. On our way to Simpal, we pass through Chautara, the district headquarters of Sindhupalchok. As we move forward, along the various rivers and streams, the settlement begins to gain sparse and green hills to dominate the landscape. A simple drive will add thrill to your already excited. Overnight at Simple’s home-stay.
Today we begin our first day of trekking with a gradual ascent to Little Okhreni. Then we continue trekking on a steep path through a dense forest path. We can also spot some wild animals like mountain deer, langur monkeys and different species of birds. Passing several small settlements on the way, we reach Kami Khark for our overnight stay. Overnight at Kami Khark Tented Camp.
Today we first walk along a flat trail then enter a forest path full of rhododendron, oaks, pine and juniper trees. After walking through the forest area, on the way to Pauwa bus, you can see a nomadic cattle house. Walking through the quiet forest we reach Paua bus. Overnight tented camp at Paua Bas.
Leaving Poua Bas behind, we ascend through a steep path. Then we went uphill for about an hour and a half through the forest path. It is a quiet walk through a secluded area. Enjoying the panoramic view of the mountains, we arrive at Bhanjyang. He will spend the night at a tented camp in Bhanjyang.
Today is about a 4 hour walk. We first climb up through a steep path then slowly descend through a forest path to Nasyampati where we have an amazing view of the mountains. Then we climb the rocky hills and finally reach Panchpokhari. The sacred lakes of Panchpokhari are not only a place of pilgrimage for Hindus and Buddhists but are equally beautiful in nature. The temple at Panchpokhari is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Panchpokhari tented camp overnight.
Early this morning we begin to catch the sun rising over the Himalayas. We reach the top of Panchpokhari for a panoramic view of Dorje Lakpa (6966 m), Gaurishankar (7134 m), Jugal Himal range, Ganesh Himal range, Rolwaling Himal range and Langtang Himal range. After spending some quality time we return back to Panchpokhri and head towards Tupidanda through a steep path. Tupidanda tented camp overnight.
Leaving the mountains behind, we descend downhill for a while, and the rest of the way is fairly flat as we pass through terraced farmlands to Dhap village. Dhap is a beautiful village inhabited by the Tamang community. Overnight at tented camp in Dhap.
For our final day of trekking today, we head towards Melamchi through terraced farmlands along the Indravati River. On the way to Tippeni we also see a hydroelectric project. After reaching Melamchi, we drive back to the capital in our private jeep and transfer you to the hotel. At a hotel in Kathmandu.
Thank you for joining us on this trek and it has been our pleasure getting to know you during this time. We hope this venture has enriched your experience with happy memories. So stay tuned. Today is the last day of the journey, saying goodbye to the trekking and the Nepal tour is ending today! No plans except to trade emails and organize photos with travel buddies. If you have more time you can go shopping in the tourist center of Thamel where you can buy souvenirs for your family. Your AlpineTrav Treks & Expeditions representative will transfer you to the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight, (SAFE TRAVEL!! We hope to see you again)
Cost Inclusion
- All meals (B, L, D) whilst on the trek with tea & coffee
- 3 nights standard hotels and 7 nights camp. Twin sharing tent for accommodation during the trek there will be a kitchen tent, dining tent, toilet tent, table, chairs, and more for your comfort
- All entrance fees for sightseeing on a heritage site
- Trekking permit, and national park +local fees
- Experienced local trek guide for Camping trek
- Full support camping crew with 1 porter for every 2 trekkers
- Arrival and departure transfers in Kathmandu
- All transportation as mentioned in the itinerary
- Duffel bag, sleeping bag, and down jacket 'if necessary' (return after completing the trek)
- Employee equipment, insurance, and allowances
- High altitude medicine and first aid kit
- Helicopter rescue arrangement (If necessary)
- Group farewell dinner at typical Nepali restaurant
Cost Exclusion
- International airfare & Nepal Visa
- Travel and rescue insurance
- Single accommodation (available on request, Kathmandu only)
- Sleeping tents for single travelers are available
- Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu (and also in the case of early return from the mountain than the scheduled itinerary)
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain(due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
- Horse renting & additional porters due to natural calamities on the trek
- Personal expenses - Drinks & Souvenirs
- Personal trekking gears
- Gratuities for staff
Difficulty: Moderate
Trails generally go above 4000 meters and on a daily basis, you can expect to be walking for about 5 – 7 hours. The perfect setting for an introduction to moderate & challenging trekking in Nepal. Activity level/physical rating is slightly harder than leisure and involves occasional difficult days. Expect ups and downs as well for there will be hills to climb as well and the well-known ‘Nepali flat’ – a little bit up and a little bit down.
No previous experience of trekking is required but you should be moderately fit and have fun walking and adapting to high altitude conditions. Having previous experience is definitely beneficial but it is not mandatory to participate for this trip. To fully participate in this journey, all passengers must be in good physical health. We strongly advise you to prepare for your trip by exercising regularly, walking, running or going to the gym. The fitter you are, the more enjoyable the hiking experience will be. All of our travel itineraries have been designed with each aspect in mind and given enough time for adaptation.
The best season for Trek is from March to November. In both seasons, Mornings are usually clear, with clouds building up in the afternoon and disappearing at night. The given temperature may raise or lower with the change in weather factors: (Sunny, Snow, Rain, etc.)
Autumn/Fall (Sept to Nov)
This is when the rain settles after the monsoon (July to Mid September )and the weather gets dry. Slightly colder than Spring but presents clear views of the mountains. The mornings are clear providing the best mountain views, days are warmer, and nighttime will get cold and frosty. Temperatures will drop considerably as you ascend higher every day.
Spring (March to May)
Another weather window for trekking in Nepal comes during the month of the latter March to May. The temperature will be relatively warmer during this period of time but still, nights will be cold and frosty at a higher elevation. During the spring season, The trekking trails all over the country are filled with vibrant mixes of red, pink, and white floras offering surreal experience along the trek. Spring season offers warm temperatures, blossoming flora and temperate days.
It’s mandatory and highly recommended to get travel insurance before embarking on any adventurous trips in Nepal. We advise all our clients to get travel insurance that covers emergency helicopter evacuation that may be needed in case of the occurrence of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) or any other reasons in high altitudes where there are no other means of transportation available. It is advisable to review carefully the insurance and its coverages before making the final decision. Carry proof of your insurance with you on the holiday and leave a copy next to your kin. You must ensure that your insurance provides an adequate level of protection and covers you for the activities involved.
At, AlpineTrav Treks & Expeditions; Our emphasis is always on maintaining small groups so that it will be easy to coordinate and cooperate with each other. We only take up to 12 pax in one group. If you are to join our’, you are likely to be joining people from different countries of any age group except minors. The size of the group varies, the minimum no of persons required to operate the trip is 2 and the maximum is 12 people. (For Camping Trek)…Contact us info@alpinetrav.cm
You will only carry your day pack carrying the essential items (Water, Cameras, Extra Fleece, Rain jacket, Sunscreen, Snacks, Valuable Items etc.) that you may need during the walk. Rest of your stuff will be carried by the porter. We provide 1 porter to every 2 participants and we also provide a duffel bag to put your trekking gears.
We have a deep passion for alpine adventure and the outdoors, and with the small business group on board we have worked on the most isolated trails we are proud to be successful in every region of Nepal and this is all due to our diversity and qualified team of guides. So your journey will be led by a qualified guide with 1 porter for every 2 participants and 1 assistant guide for every 4 participants.
Kathmandu:
In Kathmandu, we stay at the Manang Hotel in Kathmandu, in the heart of Thamel, where you can relax and have fun. Breakfast will be served at the hotel and your accommodation will be based on a twinning partnership.
Whether you’re returning from the mountains or touching the base from the airport, come and relax at the hotel, and order some good Italian espresso or a cold beer enjoy.
Trekking: Camping
Your accommodation during the trekking period will be fully tented camping. A tent will be provided for every 2 travelers with a foam mattress. If in case of a single by default, we will arrange a single tent for you at no additional cost. There will also be a kitchen tent, dining tent, toilet tent, table, chairs, and more for your comfort.
Single supplement:
Those who want to build their own room in Kathmandu will have to pay only one supplementary fee. In Kathmandu, your accommodation at the hotel in the heart of the tourist destination Thamel will be based on a twin partnership and if you want to get the same room, you will have to pay a single supplemental price as mentioned in the travel cost on request. . But in case of single by default during trekking, we will arrange single tent for you at no extra cost.
All meals are included during the trekking period
We will provide three meals a day (B, L, D) during the trek. Since this is a full camping trek, our kitchen crew will serve freshly prepared meals during the trek. We consider hearty and delicious meals as a key component to the overall success of our trip. You can and are encouraged to bring along comfort food that you enjoy eating – chocolates, power bars, dry fruits, candies, other snacks, etc.
If you have any special dietary requirements please let us know in advance and we will be sure to pass your message to your guide. For a gluten-free diet, we highly recommend you bring extra foods, especially for breakfast as your options for breakfast will be limited.
In Kathmandu, only breakfast will be provided to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where and what and with whom to eat for lunch and dinner.
Daily wake-up calls will be between 6.00 am to 7.00 am while on the trek. The wake-up time and breakfast time will be decided the night before during the briefing time. The timetable for each day will entirely depend on your walking duration for that particular day.
Tea will be served at your tent as a wake-up call. After a hearty breakfast, we set off on the day’s walk. Before breakfast, you are required to pack your duffel bag as it will be loaded by the porter while you are having your breakfast. During the trek, Breakfast and Dinner will be served at the Camping where you stay and Lunch will be along the way. We will arrive at our destination by tea-time and the camp evening will be free. After dinner, the evening will often be spent playing cards and reliving the day’s adventures, before heading off to bed for a well-earned sleep.
We encourage you to get all equipment listed below for the trip and kindly ensure you check and try every piece of equipment. You can also buy or hire the same in Kathmandu.
Clothing and Footwear:
-Long-sleeved shirts
-T-Shirts
-Trousers
-Warm Jackets
-Sweater
-Pullover
-Waterproof jackets
-Thermal
-Inner-wears
-Undergarments
-Warm socks
-Warm Hat
-Gloves
-Bandana
-Scarf
-Trekking shoes
-Slippers/Flip flops to wear at camp
-Daypack 30-35 liters (To carry your sunblock, water, camera, waterproof jackets, and others
Documents:
-Passport with visa and validity of 6 months after your trip completion
-4 copies of passport size photos for permits and official formalities
Flight tickets:
-Credit cards in case of emergencies
-Driving ID or any other ID in case of loss of your passport.
Others:
-Headlamps with extra batteries
-Sunglasses with UV protection
-Camera with charger or spare batteries
-A pair of trekking poles
-Water bottle one (1) liter
-Laundry bag to keep the dirty clothes
-Large plastic bags to keep the clothes dry
-Padlock
-Binoculars
-Reading materials, notebooks, and pens
Toiletries and hygiene:
-Quick-drying towel
-Small face towel
-Toothbrush & Toothpaste
-Deodorants, Soap, and Shampoo (Smaller bottle)
-Face and body moisturizer
-Sunscreen and lip balm
-Hand sanitizer
-Antiseptic wipes
-Hygiene products
-Basic first aid kit
At AlpineTrav Treks & Expeditions, our goal is to provide a wonderful vacation in our part of the world and ensure that our customers enjoy the vacation as little risk and worry-free travel as possible, whether monetary, physical or emotional. . All the logistical arrangements required for the trip will be made available to you on a hassle free trip and trek before your arrival; You will be led by an experienced and medically trained guide / leader with a high staff ratio.
On the trek, all-inclusive food and accommodation are included in the camping tents. Our itinerary is also designed with every aspect in mind such as adaptability, good campsites, real-life experiences, etc. We also provide sleeping bags, down jackets, and waterproof duffel bags There will also be a kitchen tent, dining tent, toilet tent, table, chairs, and more for the comfort of each participant.
Useful Info
- Respect the privacy of local people and ask permission before photographing them or their children
- Appreciate and respect local culture and customs
- Always stay on the upper side of the road when crossing donkeys for your own personal safety.
- In landslides, fields quickly cross them or climb around them if possible.
- Smoking and drinking alcohol are not recommended at altitudes above 3000 meters
- Drink at least three liters of water a day
- Be aware of symptoms associated with altitude sickness and be honest with yourself and your guide about any symptoms.
- Although not mandatory, it is always beneficial to use the invaluable services of a guide on a hike.
- However it is always beneficial to consult with an easy or difficult guide as needed.
Important Note: Your safety is of imperative concern while traveling with AlpineTrav Treks & Expeditions. Please take care to note that your leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to your safety concerns. Every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary; however, since this adventure entails traveling in remote mountainous regions, we cannot guarantee that we will not deviate from it. Weather, the health condition of a group member, unexpected natural disasters, etc., can all contribute to changes in the itinerary. Therefore, the trek leader will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if required.
