Tourists flock to Panchpokhari Kunda

By Chitra Mijar,Sindhupalchok, Nov. 4: The number of both domestic and foreign tourists to Panchpokhari, the jewel of Sindhupalchowk district, has been steadily increasing in recent months. The inflow of travellers from home and abroad has added vibrancy to this scenic destination.

Pancpokhari is a group of five holy lakes in the Sindhupalchowk district of Nepal.

According to the Bhotang Post Office under the Helambu area, a total of 6,191 domestic tourists visited Panchpokhari Kunda from mid-July to the end of October this year, along with 44 foreign tourists. 

Among the international visitors were citizens of India, Germany and the United States, among others.

The post further reported that 1,115 tourists visited during mid-July to mid-August, 859 in mid-August to mid-September, 2,400 in mid-September to mid-October and 1,779 by mid-October to late October. 

Among the foreign visitors, 16 were from SAARC nations, while 28 came from other countries. Around 500 additional visitors have arrived since the beginning of November whose official records are currently being compiled.

Recent snowfall around Panchpokhari Kunda has blanketed the area in thick ice, making the site even more picturesque. This natural beauty has drawn more domestic and foreign travellers seeking to experience the tranquil charm of the sacred ponds.

Situated at an altitude of 4,100 metres above sea level, Panchpokhari Kunda was ranked 16th among Nepal’s top tourist destinations in recent years. It is believed that visiting the Panchpokhari fulfils one’s heartfelt wishes.

However, despite its growing recognition, Panchpokhari has not yet received the attention of the tourists it deserves, mainly due to limited promotion. 

Ganesh Prasad Tiwari, Information and Conservation Officer at Langtang National Park, said by intensifying promotion and better management of trekking routes could significantly increase the flow of both national and international tourists. 

He added that extending road access to the trailhead, along with constructing essential infrastructure such as toilets, hotels, resting areas, electricity and communication facilities, would attract more visitors. 

Tiwari also stressed the need for implementing stringent monitoring, like restricting construction of hotels and other infrastructures near the ponds and effective waste management to preserve the site’s natural and spiritual beauty.