The Ponker Lake trek goes from Besisahar by jeep to Dharapani or Tilije, then on foot to Gho and Bimthang, and from Bimthang up to the lake at about 4,100 m and back. It is usually sold as a short trek of about five to six days on the trail, with the same route used for the return.
Route in brief
Kathmandu or Pokhara to Besisahar by road, then a jeep to Dharapani or Tilije, a walk to Gho, a walk to Bimthang, a day trip to the lake, and the same way back. Operators describe it as an out-and-back route, not a loop.
Sample itinerary
- Day 1: Kathmandu to Besisahar by road (about 6 to 7 hours)
- Day 2: Jeep to Dharapani or Tilije, walk to Gho (about 2,500 m)
- Day 3: Gho to Bimthang (about 3,600 m)
- Day 4: Bimthang to Ponker Lake (about 4,100 m) and back to Bimthang
- Day 5: Walk down to Tilije or Gho
- Day 6: Jeep to Besisahar and road to Kathmandu or Pokhara
Variations
Some operators sell a 9 or 10 day Mini Manaslu version that drives to Tal, walks up to Bimthang, visits the lake and then walks down through Goa and Chamje to Besisahar. The end point and the number of nights at Bimthang differ between operators, so compare itineraries carefully.
Altitudes
Gho is about 2,515 to 2,560 m, Bimthang about 3,590 to 3,720 m depending on the source, and Ponker Lake about 4,100 m. A few operators quote 4,200 m for the lake. Our Manaslu guides give Bimthang as about 3,590 m.
The lake day
The walk from Bimthang to the lake and back is a long day. One operator lists it as 5 to 6 hours of trekking. The climb above Bimthang is steep in places.
Acclimatisation
Going from about 2,500 m to about 3,600 m in a day, then to 4,100 m the next day, is quick. Add a night at Bimthang if you can, and read the notes on altitude in permits, difficulty and season.
Plan it
Read Ponker Lake facts and views or how it fits with the Manaslu Circuit.
