Ponkar Lake Annapurna Circuit Trek
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Trip Overview

Bhimtang Ponkar Lake Trek is a short trek in the Annapurna region, towards the north of Annapurna. But, you can mix this as a part of conquering the Annapurna Circuit trek. Ponkar lake, situated at an altitude of 3,210 meters, adds charm to the Annapurna region.

As you start stepping upwards from Dharapani, and follow the rustic forest path, meadows, and vegetation, you will reach Ponkar Lake. On the popular Annapurna circuit trek, a 2-day moderate trek to Ponkar will be refreshing, making you familiar with high-altitude plains and glaciers. You are treated with Annapurna Massif, diverse cultural, and landscape strolling by the time you complete the Ponkar Lake and Annapurna Circuit trek.

Pure Adventure Nepal now introduces a fresh package of 18 days to explore the Annapurna region, without missing out on Ponkar Lake, which is one to embark on. The better choice lies in adequate fitness preparation and gearing up for the most-awaited Ponkar Lake and Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Trip Itinerary

Day 01

The first day of the trek begins with you arriving at Kathmandu. You will join the Pure Adventure team, who will pick you up and transfer you to a comfortable hotel. With the welcome dinner, further plans for the trek will be discussed with you.

Accomodation
Accomodation
Hotels

Day 02

The second day of the trek begins with an early morning breakfast. The team will now leave for Besisahar Kathmandu, which takes about 7 to 8 hours to drive by road. From Besisahar to Jagat now, you will take a local jeep for about 80 km, covering a total of 286 km, that day. Now booking a nearby lodge, you can rest after a long drive and also interact with locals in the region.

Accomodation
Accomodation
Teahouses and Lodge

Day 03

As you take a pleasant walk, your first step towards the trail top Yakakharka, you will pass through a tranquil village in the rustic charm of Nepal. Follow the trail through the Marshyangdi River, flowing with the sound of water currents, that enlighten the mood. From there onwards, you will gain an elevation of about 550 meters in trekking of 5 to 6 hours.

Accomodation
Accomodation
Teahouses

Day 04

The village of Bhimthang, at an elevation of 3720 m is your next destination. You need to climb steeply upwards through the windy trails as you approach the village. On your way, you will pass by the village of Koto, forests, and meadows. Also, encountered an interesting old temple to pray for a good life and experience.
Accomodation
Accomodation
Teahouses

Day 05

On the fifth day of the Annapurna Circuit trek, you will trek to Ponkar Lake, located at an altitude of 3210 m. Ponkar Glacier is just 2 km away from the lake region. With an elevation gain of 800 to 1000 meters, you will have reasonable access to the tranquil beauty of Ponkar Lake.

Accomodation
Accomodation
Teahouses

Day 06

After exploring Bhimthang you now descend toward Tilje alongside the views of the Annapurna Massifs, Machhapuchhre, unlike the heat and crowds of the city. It is a 26 m walk through forests, so we will begin early before climbing the trail.

Accomodation
Accomodation
Teahouses

Day 07

As you explore the trail, it is now time to reach Timang village, which is around 5 to 6 hours of walking from Tilje. Enjoying the morning view of Lamjung Himal, Himlung, Mt Manaslu, and Annapurna Sanctuary, we pass through high pastures, and forests, before ending your day at Timang.

Accomodation
Accomodation
Teahouses

Day 08

From Timang, you will ascend towards the tranquil village of Upper Pisang, lying among the stunning landscape of the Himalayas. Passing through the fields of barley, crossing the Marsyangdi River through Suspension bridges, and transitioning to high-altitude meadows, you will be enjoying the adventure. Reaching Ngawal, you can enjoy a hot cup of tea and coffee and continue your journey to Upper Pisang, at 3300 m altitude.
Accomodation
Accomodation
Teahouses

Day 09

The day has arrived when you move your foot forward to the enchanting vibrant Manang town. Nestled amidst the Himalayas, the journey from Pisang to Manang can be quite challenging than the earlier days. But as you cross the Thorong la Pass, and be part of the dramatic landscape of the Manang region, you will enjoy a rest stop at Thorong High Camp.
Accomodation
Accomodation
Teahouses

Day 10

On the trail on the Annapurna, the first acclimatization day is around Gangapurna Lake. Trekkers prefer to rest in this region, while the magnificent views of the Gangapurna I, Annapurna II, and Annapurna III call like no other. It takes about 4 to 5 hours to complete the trek to Gangapurna with an elevation rise of 700 meters.

Accomodation
Accomodation
Teahouses

Day 11

After a rest day in Manang, you will now trek to Yak Kharka, following the Marshyangdi River. You treat yourself to switchbacks and panoramic views of the surrounding Annapurna Massif. 2 hours of comfortable pace trekking will lead you to the small village of Ledar. From that steep ascend for 3 hours join on your way to Yak Kharka, at an altitude of 4100 meters.

Accomodation
Accomodation
Teahouses

Day 12

Both Thorong Phedi and High Camp are unique choices at an altitude of 4450m and 4870m respectively. It takes about 5 to 6 km to reach High Camp and Thorong Phedi. The trail is comparatively steeper to reach High Camp than the Phedi. With a stipulated time between 3 to 4 hours, one can ascend the regions and have stunning views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna I.

Accomodation
Accomodation
Base camps

Day 13

Thorong la Pass is one of the highest trekking passes in the world with an elevation of 5416 meters. One can have steep climbs and slippery sections, while the challenging pass, offers incredible views of glaciers, valleys, and crystal-clear mountains.

Now, you step your foot towards Muktinath Darshan, which is about 14 hours away from the pass. As you gradually descend to Muktinath, you can stay at nearby lodges.

Accomodation
Accomodation
Hotels

Day 14

Beginning early in the morning with breakfast, you make preparations to trek to Kagbeni. You will be staying overnight at Jomsom, after successful trekking. Strolling through the temple region and enjoying the chill weather and sacred aura of the region shall promote serene bliss.

Accomodation
Accomodation
Teahouses

Day 15

Marpha village's next destination is the emblem of transitioning into an enchanting village from high-altitude landscapes and the Tibetan Plateau. In the peaceful atmosphere of the tranquil village lies apple orchards, locally produced cider, and brandy, that can be worth rejuvenating for the rest of the day.

Accomodation
Accomodation
Lodges

Day 16

As you woke up having a pleasant experience in Marpha village, the time has come when you drive your way back to Pokhara. Arriving in Pokhara, having lunch there, and resting in your hotel room, by the late afternoon you can stroll through the city of Pokhara. 
 

Accomodation
Accomodation
Hotels

Day 17

Through a happy night at Pokhara, you will be driving to Kathmandu. As you depart, look gracefully at the majestic Annapurna Sanctuary, which has a lot to remind you, having explored through amazing experiences of life, right?

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you are treated to a warm farewell dinner at Kathmandu. Savoring authentic Nepali taste once again in the heart of Kathmandu, probably the one, that would leave an impactful impression for life.

Accomodation
Accomodation
Hotels

Day 18

Bidding farewell to Nepal, you can now depart from the Pure Adventure Nepal team to your respective homes. You can expect a good spirit within and do keep exploring Nepal, as the world within welcomes you with open arms.

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Trip Expense
What to Expect
  • Airport pickup and drop at Tribhuwan International Airport
  • Tourist bus from Kathmandu
  • 3-star Hotel stays at Kathmandu night stay in twin sharing
  • Lodging and Tea house accommodation
  • Licensed Trek Guide with good spoken English plus assistant leader each for a group of four
  • A porter sharing for two trekkers each on the route
  • Salary and Insurance Cost of Staff
  • Pure Adventure Nepal T-Shirt/ trekking maps.
  • Pure Adventure Nepal T-Shirt/ trekking maps.
  • All necessary paperwork and permits (TIMS/ Conservation Fee).
  • Emergency medical kit and local taxes
What not to Expect
  • International Flight and Nepal VISA fees
  • Travel Insurance
  • Extra activities cost not planned within the Itinerary
  • Hard or Soft Drinks and snacks
  • Tips for Staff (Trekking Guide, Assistant, and Porter)
  • Essential packing Equipment
  • Extra cost for booking domestic flight other than planned
Gears and Equipments
Clothing
  • Waterproof jackets and pants
  • Sweaters, and down jackets
  • Lightweight trousers
  • Hiking shirts- long-sleeved
  • Hooded rain and Fleece jacket
  • Inner wears
  • Light and heavyweight winter gloves
  • Sun hat or scarf, Money belt, Cotton headscarf, bandana
  • Winter hat or insulating hat
Footwear
  • Hiking Boots
  • A pair of sports shoes
  • Heavy wool and light socks
Personal accessories
  • Headlights and extra batteries
  • Face and body wipes
  • Sunscreen and sunglasses with UV protection
  • Money
  • Watch
  • Cell phone and camera 
Toiletries
  • Medium-drying towels
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Washing kits, talcum
  • powder, and toilet paper
  • Degradable soap and shampoo
  • Deodorant floss, nail clippers, and mirror 
Extra items
  • First aid kit
  • Passport-sized photos and passport photocopies
  • Binoculars
  • Personal medications
  • 1 swiss type knife
  • Sleeping bags and sheets,
  • Rucksack, backpack, and a small day pack
  • Water bottle
  • Water purification tablet solution
Frequently asked questions

Ponkar Lake is a glacial lake located in the high altitude range within the Annapurna region, inside the Manang district. Expect to find it in the north of the Annapurna massif near Bhimthang, at an elevation of 4100 meters above sea level.

Ponkar Lake is one of the high-altitude lakes surrounded by meadows, rugged landscapes, and Himalayan glaciers. No roads directly connect to Ponkar Lake, that’s why you need to trek from Bimthang Ponkar Lake Trek, which could be challenging for beginners.

Since Ponkar Lake is at a 4100m high elevation, it is prone to snow and windy trails. Thus, the best time will be visiting around spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) in Nepal. The lake routes are easily accessible while the weather would be less challenging during these times of the year.

Ponkar Lake can be accessible only through Bimthang Ponkar Lake Trek, as this is one of the specific routes designed after conquering the region, and less demanding than the other challenging routes.

Since Ponkar Lake lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area, north of the Annapurna Sanctuary, you require permits similar to the Annapurna Circuit Trek. That means you need to arrange an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) card to reach Ponkar Lake.

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