Jugal Himal and Panch Pokhari Trek- 15 Days

Good to Know
  • Duration 15 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Starts/Ends Kathmandu to Kathmandu
  • Group Size 2-10
  • Max. Altitude 4050 M.
  • Best Season March, April, May and September, October, November

Highlights

  • One of the off-beaten treks in the alpine environment.
  • One of the most adventurous treks near Kathmandu
  • Cross several suspension bridges over the numerous glacial rivers.
  • Get insight into the cultural day-to-day life of ethnic communities.
  • Get blessed and relaxed in the tranquil higher Himalayan lakes.
  • Witness awe-inspiring landscapes and mountain ranges.

The Panch Pokhari Trek is one of the elongated trekking packages in the Langtang region of Nepal that leads to the foot of the Jugal Himal to witness the sacred combination of five lakes at an altitude of 4,462 m. It is a natural marvel that possesses a high religious significance as well, especially during the Janai Purnima. At this time, many Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims from far and wide visit to pay respect every year in August, which is located to the northeast of the Kathmandu Valley.

Jugal Himal from here seems just above the head, including Rolwaling Range, Kanchenjunga, and Makalu Barun. This trek also provides an ultimate opportunity to get a close-up view of the Jugal Himal Range, involving Dorche Lakpa Mountain, Madiya Mountain, and Phurbi Chhyachu Mountain. Besides the Himalayas, you will get to explore the authentic traditional lifestyle of different ethnic communities such as Sherpa, Tamang, and Chettri to get acquainted with their culture, tradition, and way of life.

This thrilling trekking experience initiates officially in Chutara, which is easily accessible from the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu, and moves forward through several tiny settlements of various indigenous groups, dense rhododendron and pine forests, and glaciers, which are as far as it goes.

Later, you will head for Melamchi Bazaar and drive back to Kathmandu.

Anticipations for the Jugal Himal Trek

The Jugal Himal and Panch Pokhari Trek is a memorable adventure in a remote and off-the-beaten-road region of Nepal, with a perfect blend of natural beauty and culture that offers a unique opportunity to connect with and experience the serenity of the Himalayas, passing through numerous authentic valleys of several indigenous groups.

Here are some highlights of the Jugal Himal and Panch Pokhari, known for their outshining natural charm and cultural significance:

Which mountains are seen in the Jugal Himal Panch Pokhari trek?

The primary expectation of the Jugal Himal Trek is to witness the awe-inspiring mountains. While you are trekking in this part of the Langtang region, you will get to witness stunning Jugal Himal ranges such as Dorje Lakpa, Phurbi Chhayachu, Madiya, and others, including Jugal Himal itself at an altitude of 6,095 m above sea level. They are capable of luring every traveler with their mythical charisma, conspiring with Mother Nature to keep you captivated.

Religiously substantial Panch Pokhari

Panch Pokhari is a group of five holy lakes under the Langtang National Park that is more popular among the natives of the Himalayas than tourists from different parts of the world. Many local Hindu and Buddhist devotees anticipate seeing these alpine lakes on the foothills of the Jugal Himal ranges to get blessings and wash away human faults.

The exotic Panch Pokhari is crowded in August or September on Janai Purnima when the lake is believed to be in its most sacred form. Besides their religious importance, these high-altitude glacial lakes are gorgeous and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks when the clear blue water of the lakes contrasts significantly with the rugged terrain, a visual delight to trekking aspirants.

Incredible cultural encounters in the Jugal Himal Panch Pokhari Trek

The Jugal Himal encompassment is largely inhabited by the people of Tamang and Sherpa. They are the locals of the Himalayas of Nepal who are famous not only for their distinctive culture, traditions, and lifestyles but also for their open-hearted treatment of others.

On the Panch Pokhari trek, you will have this rare chance to interact and engage with local Himalayan communities to learn about their brilliant rural way of life by visiting remote villages like Chautara and Melamchi Gaon.

What is the wildlife seen on the Jugal Himal Trek?

The Jugal Himal region is rich in biodiversity. Trekking in here takes you through lush, dense woods of rhododendrons and pine, which add immensely to the natural allure of spring bloom. Keep an eye out for various wildlife species, such as Himalayan pheasants, red pandas, and musk deer, mostly in the lower land of Jugal Himal.

Secluded Jugal Himal Trail

Unlike some of the more known trekking routes in Nepal, the Jugal Himal Panch Pokhari trek is comparatively less frequented by tourists, which means you will be at the ultimate pristine of the mountains, lakes, and forests, guaranteeing you a more remote wilderness trekking experience.

What is the distance from Kathamandu to Jugal Himal?

The Jugal Himal Panch Pokhari Trek officially begins in Chautara, which is a relatively easy drive from Kathmandu, covering a distance of 94.5 km in 3 hours and 32 minutes, making it one of the most accessible trekking trails for trekkers who have limited time to experience the wonderful Himalayas of Nepal.

Jugal Himal Trek Cost

The price for the Jugal Himal trek depends vastly on several factors, such as the trekking route you want to pursue, the length of the trek, your personal preferences, and the trekking company you go with. Adventure Himalayan Travels and Treks is offering a special group discount on the 15 days Jugal Himal Panch Pokhari trek, which is:

  • 2–3 pax, USD 1330

  • 4-6 pax, USD 1225

  • 7–10 pax, USD 1175

That is, the final cost is determined by your preference, the number of hikers, and the level of service chosen. Additionally, we are well aware of a personalized and private adventure for travel enthusiasts looking forward to a deeper cultural and natural immersion, prioritizing your interest, flexibility, and extensive exploration.

We are a travel and tour specialist tailoring an itinerary to meet your needs, which is customizable as per your choice. Do remember us for local Sherpa guides, as hiring guides has been mandatory since April 1st, 2023, for a good reason to ensure your safe travel experience in Nepal. We take pride in our sherpa guide, the true hero of the Himalayas, having collected years of navigating expertise in the wilderness.

The guides have a good command of the English language and are well-informed in each aspect of the trekking in the Jugal Himal, including the conditions of the weather and trekking routes, major highlights, and every corner of Nepal they step on.

These qualities are essential to leading the clients to their destination, mitigating any sort of potential danger, and can be hired for just USD 20, which includes the cost of their food, accommodation, clothing, and insurance.

Jugal Himal Panch Pokhari trek: Is this trek right for you?

The combined Jugal Himal and Panch Pokhari Trek is an attractive and challenging trekking acquaintance that takes you to beautiful lakes, majestic mountains, and scenic Himalayan landscapes.

Whether the trek is right for you or not depends on your preference, past trekking expertise, fitness level, and the service you have chosen. As a moderately challenging route involving ascending to high elevations, crossing passes, and varied terrain, it is undeniably best suited for experienced hikers and trekkers seeking a more interesting and physically demanding trekking experience offering a slightly easier level of difficulty.

To your delight, trekking here is feasible for absolute beginners who are physically fit and adequately prepared. In summary, the Jugal Himal and Panch Pokhari Treks are just the right trekking destinations for nature enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and adventure seekers. They are convenient trekking trails for all, regardless of age and experience, when well prepared in advance.

Grasp this opportunity while the Jugal Himal is calling you!

Must trek Jugal Himal Panch Pokhari for memorable cultural and natural interaction

Jugal Himal and Panch Pokhari are spectacular natural formations in the Sindupalnchowk district of Nepal, near the neighboring China border. The vastly stretched fascination of the country is blessed with towering peaks and a wide variety of flora and fauna, making it a haven for diverse ecosystems.

Moreover, the Jugal Himal region is abundant in glazing rivers, cascading waterfalls, and lush river valleys, sheltering some endangered and rare species and providing an ideal setting for trekking, hiking, and mountaineering activities.

Additionally, the Jugal Himal range is a cultural heritage. On the way, you will get to savor the special local traditions and customs preserved and transferred from generation to generation of the native communities: Sherpa, Tamang, and Gurung living in the foothills of the mountains.

Therefore, Jugal Himal Panch Pokhari is a remarkable natural and cultural wonder, a true paradise for trekkers seeking an unforgettable trekking experience in the synchronic mixture of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and adventure in the wilderness of the Himalayas while expressing gratitude to the warmth and hospitality of the mountain indigenous people.

Must add Jugal Himal Panch Pokhari Trek to your bucket list right now for a surreal travel experience in Nepal

Itinerary
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On your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu Valley, our representative will receive you and take you to our hotel, where you will be briefly informed about your trekking package over a complimentary dinner. 

You will spend a comforting night in our hotel.

  • Accommodation3 star Hotel

You will be taken on a one-day-long tour to visit some of the amazing historical and religious landmarks within the valley listed as a UNESCO world heritage site. Such as Pashupatinath Temple, Swaymbhunath, and Boudhanath.

In addition, you will also get to wander around the magnificent Durbar Squares of Basantapur, along with the two nearby royal cities of Patan and Bhaktapur.

  • Accommodation3 star Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast

Today, the trek formally begins early in the morning with a drive to Chautara, which is about 5 hours from Kathmandu.

From Chautara, you will trek forward towards Syaule village, which takes only a couple of hours to conquer and lodge in the Syaule Bazaar of Syaule Village. 

  • AccommodationLocal Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner

On this day, the plan is to reach Kamikharka Danda. For that, you will clamber the hill upward to reach Okrin Danda.

Later, you will pass through a ridge and mani walls and then ascend gradually through the forest towards a small clearing in Kamikharka Danda, where you will spend the night.

  • AccommodationCamp
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner

Following the route through oak and rhododendron, you will reach a large Chorten at 3,160 m altitude, which later extends further to the western slope of Chyo Chyo Danda.

From here, you will lower down, passing through a ruined stone house, to a campsite where you will pitch your camp.

  • AccommodationCamp
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude4,100 m

The trail today follows a rocky way uphill to pasture land, which later passes through a ridge and lowers down through the forest to meet Chang Samarphu.

From here, it continues down the steep hill to make it to Hile Bhanjyang.

  • AccommodationCamping
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner

The trek today begins with an ascent up the hill to an altitude of 3,980 m with spectacular mountain views.

Later, it descends through a flagstone to reach Nasempati, located at an altitude of 3,800 m, to spend the night.

  • AccommodationTent
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude3,800 m

The maximum four-hour climb from Nasempati will take you to Panch Pokhari, a blend of five lakes at an elevation of 4,050 m.

Here, you will get to worship and take the blessing of Shiva enclosed by sheet metal in two metal-roofed huts with an iron trident, which can be seen near Panch Pokhari.

  • AccommodationTent
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude4,050 m

This day is taken as the rest day when you will lie down, relax, and ease tired muscles to pull yourself up for the upcoming treks.

If you like, you are free to roam around Panch Pokhari afterward.

  • AccommodationTent
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude4,050 m

Early this morning, you will descend through the forest all the way to a meadow with lush greenery vegetation, which goes by the name Kharka and is located at 2,530 m.

On a very fortunate day, you will get to see the very rare Himalayan goat (Thar) grazing on the land.

  • AccommodationTent
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude2,530 m

On this day, you will lower further down and pass through the thick forest, then small rivulets to make it to Yarsa Village.

Later, you will follow the steep downhill to reach a bridge over Panch Pokhari Khola (river) and climb Hutanbrang.

After that, the trail lowers down to Yangri Village, where you will call it a day.

  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner

From Yangri, you will pass through Gangdwang village and Tarkeygyang to the village of Gangyul.

Later, you will pursue the trail downward through the forest to a large gompa in Chumik and ascend uphill to Sermanthang.

  • AccommodationTent
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner

The trail of today goes through the small villages of Nigale, Gyalsha, and Raithani Gyangp, from where it stretches through the forest to the village of Dubhhachaur.

From here, Melamchi Pul Bazaar is just a bit far.

  • AccommodationLocal Lodge
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner

You will head for Kathmandu early this morning. The Chabahil bus stop is just 59.2 km from Melamchi, and it takes about 2 hours of driving to make it to the Kathmandu Valley.

 

  • Accommodation3 star Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast -Farewell dinner

We will assist in your last-moment preparation and take you to Tribhuvan International Airport, which will take you to your next destination.

We wish you a safe journey and expect to serve you again.

  • MealsBreakfast

This itinerary is not suited for you? Plan your own trip.

Route Map
Jugal Himal and Panch Pokhari Trek- 15 Days Map
What's Included
Includes
  • Airport Pickup and Drop
  • Trekking transportation by bus
  • Three-night hotel in Kathmandu of a tourist standard with bed and breakfast
  • Eleven nights and twelve days of trekking with a tent
  • All the meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek
  • Essential trek permit and National Park Fee
  • Trek leader for the entire tour
  • Complete camping equipment like a tent, sleeping bag, kitchen equipment, jacket, etc.
  • An experienced guide (trained by the Ministry of Tourism), necessary trekking staff (cook, sherpa, porter, and helper), and their meal/accommodation/transportation/salary/insurance/equipment
  • Trekking achievement certificate
  • Adventure Himalayan T-Shirt
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
Excludes
  • Personal bar bill, travel insurance, international airfare, and domestic airfare
  • Items for personal expenses such as alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, laundry, tips, etc.
  • Nepal entry visa fee: US$ 50 (duration 30 days from date of issue): Available at Royal Nepalese Embassies and Royal Nepalese Consulates abroad or on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu
  • All the entrance fees to the UNESCO World's Heritage Sites in Kathmandu
Dates and Prices
Date PriceAvailability 
Start DateStarts: ThursdayDec 12, 2024End DateEnds: ThursdayDec 26, 2024PricePriceUS$1330StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: MondayDec 16, 2024End DateEnds: MondayDec 30, 2024PricePriceUS$1330StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: ThursdayDec 19, 2024End DateEnds: ThursdayJan 02, 2025PricePriceUS$1330StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: MondayDec 23, 2024End DateEnds: MondayJan 06, 2025PricePriceUS$1330StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: ThursdayDec 26, 2024End DateEnds: ThursdayJan 09, 2025PricePriceUS$1330StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: MondayDec 30, 2024End DateEnds: MondayJan 13, 2025PricePriceUS$1330StatusStatusAvailable
Useful Info

Trekking the Jugal Himal, especially if you are planning to include the Panch Pokhari, requires careful preparation to ensure a safe, non-bothersome, and enjoyable journey. Here are some useful, comprehensive checklists to help you make the most of your trekking in the Jugal Himal range:

Physical Fitness to trek Jugal Himal and Panch Pokhari

Trekking at high altitudes comes with inherent risks, and physical fitness plays a paramount role in determining the difficulty level of trekking in the Jugal Himal region or any mountainous area in Nepal.

So, it is advisable to engage yourself in a structured fitness program that includes endurance programs, cardiovascular exercises, and strength training, incorporating hiking or hill climbing into your daily routine to stimulate the trekking conditions you’ll encounter on the way.

In short:

  • Start regular cardiovascular workouts, strength training, and endurance activities to improve your stamina and fitness.
  • Make sure to practice uphill climbs and descends.

Jugal Himal Panch Pokhari Trekking Difficulty

The Jugal Himal Panch Pokhari trek is an easy to moderate trek that ascends gradually through the rugged terrain to a forested path, climbing a few steep sections. The trek overall is 4,000 m abovesea level, with an everyday hike of 6-7 hours. So, there are chances of getting altitude mountain sickness (AMS).

Hence, it is essential to be well prepared, including proper acclimatization to the altitude, being equipped with the right gear, understanding the challenges, and maintaining your body. If you do so, the Jugal Himal Trek can be a rewarding adventure in a less-inhabited, remote, and unexplored area.

Condition of accommodation in the Jugal Himal Trek

The Jugal Himal Panch Pokhari Trek is one of the marvelous, less-trodden trekking routes of Nepal, completely in the serenity of nature. Certain parts of the trekking sectionaren’t even habitual;therefore, finding proper accommodation can be a difficult part of the trek, favoring camping.

However, rest assured, you’ll find basic teahouses and lodges that facilitate a basic room with twin beds and shared bathrooms along the route, which might not provide the same level of convenience as more popular trekking routes yet assure your comfortable trekking time.

The Jugal Himal Panch Pokhari altogether meets your goal to experience the very rural atmosphere and keep your anticipation realistic while being amazed by the variations in service and cleanliness found throughout the trekking route of the Jugal Himal.

What is the food like in the Jugal Himal trekking region?

Food in the Jugal Himal Panch Pokhari Trek is similar to many other trekking regions in Nepal, which are usually a safe and wholesome amalgam of local and international cuisines, emphasizing more on providing nourishing meals to trekkers.

While the dish variation might get limited and may vary in taste compared to urban areas, they are still filling and hearty, rich in carbs and protein to keep you energized. As per the water, make sure to drink purified or boiled water to avoid waterborne diseases and carry water purification tablets or portable water filters, including a refillable water bottle.

In addition, dietary options can also be limited during the peak trekking season, so it is a wise idea to inform your trekking agency or teahouse of specific dietary preferences, such as vegan meals.

To sum it up, the accommodation and food found in the Jugal Himal region are basic, and the options might get limited as you move closer to the higher Himalayas, which bridges you with the local people, culture, and Nepali hospitality.

Here is a list of common found you’ll encounter during your Jugal Himal Packpokari trek:

  • Dal Bhat
  • Potatoes
  • Porridges
  • Tibetan dishes
  • Noodles
  • Eggs
  • Bread
  • International cuisines: pasta, pizza, fried rice etc.

Weather in Panch Pokhari Jugal Himal Trek

The weather in the Panch Pokhari area during the trek differs from season to season. It is an essential step to consider the time of the year and trek accordingly, as weather can impact your trekking experience significantly.

Here is what the weather looks like at four different times in the Jugal Himal Panch Pokhari region:

Weather in Spring (March-May) of Panch Pokhari Jugal Himal

The weather in the spring at the Jugal Himal during the day is pleasant and steady in the lower lands, initiating a comfortable hike that ranges from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).

While the nights are chilly and the thermometer drops noticeably, the fully bloomed species of wildflowers, including rhododendrons, add color to the landscape, composing the most popular trekking season in the region.

Trekking Jugal Himal Panch Pokhari in Summer

Summer is the monsoon season in Nepal when it rains frequently, often cloudy skies, and crawls leeches on the muddy and slippery trekking trail.

Therefore, it is normally not advised to trek in the Jugal Himal and Panch Pokhari regions during the summer season due to the potential risks of floods and landslides en route.

Nonetheless, when geared appropriately, summer offers exceptionally verdant hills, roaring rivers, and surrounding views.

Autumn (September to November) in the Jugal Himal Panch Pokhari Trek

Autumn in Jugal Himal Panch Pokhari is noted for clear skies and reliable weather conditions that provide excellent visibility of the striking mountains and landscapes, making it favorable for trekking. So, it is also considered one of the best seasons to trek after spring.

The days are usually warm and sunny when the temperature at day measures 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) in lower elevations, drops below zero at night, and gets cooler in the higher altitudes.

Should you consider trekking Jugal Himal in Winter?

The winter weather in Jugal Himal Panch Pokhari goes sub-zero and is extremely cold, with possible snow dumping. Furthermore, there is a high risk of mountain sickness due to low oxygen.

Therefore, it is less preferred by amateur trekkers and should be kept in consideration, but when prepared for the cold with adequate cold-weather gear that includes a warm sleeping bag, insulated clothes, and a quality down jacket, it can be a rewarding trekking experience for your lifetime.

Any special permits to trek Jugal Himal Panch Pokhari?

No, you do not require any special permits to trek the Jugal Himal range. But since they come under the Langtang National Park area and a TIMS card has been compulsory to ensure safe and sound trekking, you will have to obtain:

Langtang National Park Permit

The Jugal Himal region falls within the Langtang National Park boundaries; therefore, trekkers must obtain an entry permit that usually costs around NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 25) per person for foreigners, valid for the duration of the trek.

TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card

The TIMS card helps authorities keep track of trekkers for their safety and security purposes, which is the utmost concern of travelers. It is facilitated by the TIMS checkpost in Pokhara and the offices of the Nepal Tourism Board in both Kathmandu and tourist heaven, Pokhara.

The TIM card fees vary depending on the type of trek and the season. Which is usually around NPR 2,000 payable in Nepali currency only.

Please note: Permit fees and regulations in Nepal change over time, so it is crucial to check with the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) or the relevant authorities for the most up-to-date information not only on permit requirements, costs, and procedures but also on your comfortable trekking in Nepal. Furthermore, you may want to consider a travel and trekking registered agency to assist you on your journey and make your travel more fun and hassle-free.

 

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