Panch Pokhari means five lakes. It is a group of five holy lakes at about 4,100 m in Sindhupalchok District, north of the Kathmandu valley, under the Jugal Himal. Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims visit them, especially at Janai Purnima.
Where it is
The lakes lie at Bhotang in Sindhupalchok, in the hills north of Kathmandu. They are close to the capital as the crow flies, but the access is long and rough.
The lakes
Five lakes make up the group, which is why the name means five ponds. Hindus consider the lakes holy and Buddhists also visit.
Janai Purnima
The main pilgrimage is at Janai Purnima in July or August, when devotees go to bathe and worship.
Mountains you may see
The Jugal Himal range rises above the lakes, including Dorje Lakpa (6,966 m), Phurbi Chyachu (6,637 m) and Madiya (6,257 m). See the Dorje Lakpa guides.
Nearby treks
Bhairab Kunda is in the same district. See the Bhairab Kunda trek guides and the Helambu trek guides.
Common questions
- How high is Panch Pokhari? About 4,100 m.
- How many lakes are there? Five.
- When do pilgrims go? At Janai Purnima, in July or August.
Plan it
Back to the hidden lakes overview or visiting remote lakes safely.
