Panch Pokhari (4,100 m) is located to the capital’s northeast at the base of the Jugal Himal, a chain of peaks that includes Dorjee Lhakpa (6,966m), Phurbi Chhyachu (6,637m), and Madiya (6,257m) in Nepal, as well as Shishapangma (8,027 m) in south-central Tibet. This trekking route is a relatively new one, and the ideal time to do this trek is between October and May. Panch Pokhari means “Five Ponds”, and like most such sites, is important from both the cultural and religious aspects. Here, too, many devotees come in August during the Janai Purnima festival, when they change their janai (sacred thread worn by Brahmins around their bodies). Panch Pokhari, because of its altitude, also carried ecological significance. You’ll be mostly among Tamangs and Sherpas during this ten-day trek, which begins at Chautara (1,200 m). You drive there from Kathmandu, and around five hours later you’ll be there, the district headquarters of Sindhupalchok district, an area that was devastated by the 7.8 M earthquake in April 2015, followed by a 6.7 M aftershock that affected this district the most. As a result, more than 3,000 people lost their lives here, and in Chautara itself, more than ninety percent of the houses were destroyed. It is, of course, on its way to recovery now, and you’ll be halting for the night here. The following day, you start hiking to Phusre (2,045 m), reaching there in about six hours. It’s an uphill trek, and you’ll be glad to stop for the night. The next day’s hike continues gradually uphill to reach Kami Kharka (2,845 m) in six hours or so. On the way, the great views of Gaurishankar, Dorje Lakpa, and Jugal Himal range will uplift your spirit. The air is cool, and the scenery is splendid, this area being a grazing ground for livestock. You halt here in a trekking camp, and next morning, you hike for another six hours or so to arrive at Pauwa Bas (3,000 m). The fourth day sees you trekking to Hile Bhanjyang (3,400m), and similarly, the fifth day, you hike to Nasim Pati (3,700 m), passing Tangu village on the way. This is the final point before reaching your ultimate destination, that is, Panch Pokhari. Nasim Pati provides spectacular views, and you can stay the night in a rest house here. . Before reaching Panch Pokhari, however, you have to trek along some pretty difficult ridges. which will take around two hours, or thereabouts. Then, you’ll see a sign welcoming you to Panch Pokhari, and sometime later, you are there. The clear blue ponds are surrounded by green hills, and the scene is a very serene one. There are a number of rest houses, along with a temple. You should take a dip in the water, as it’s sure to refresh and rejuvenate you. Walking up to a hill top, you’ll be treated to a spectacular view of the Kanchenjunga, Rolwaling, Makalu, and of course, the Jugal Himal, ranges. Take a well-deserved rest here and have a peaceful night of deep sleep.