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.
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.
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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.
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.
Day 04
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.
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.
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.
Day 08
Day 09
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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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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