Activity Overview
13-day Sabha Pokhari Pilgrimage Trek
The 13-day Sabha Pokhari Pilgrimage Trek is a spiritual and adventurous journey in eastern Nepal. Located at 4,200 meters, Sabha Pokhari is a sacred lake believed to fulfill wishes. According to legend, Sage Byas Rishi held a gathering of 8,800 sages here during the Dwapar era, giving the lake its name – “Sabha” meaning assembly.
The pilgrimage is most active during Nag Panchami to Janai Purnima (August 1–15), attracting devotees and newlyweds who come for blessings.
The trek starts from Khandbari to Barabis (by jeep), and then on foot through Phakuwa, Selele, Dharma Dwar, and finally to Sabha Pokhari. The trail offers scenic views of Mt. Makalu and Mt. Kanchenjunga.
There are no teahouses along the route, so trekkers must carry tents, food, and fuel.
Highlights:
- Sacred lake believed to grant wishes
- Rich mythological and cultural significance
- Stunning natural beauty: lakes, forests, hills
- Mountain views of Makalu and Kanchenjunga
- Remote, peaceful, and off-the-beaten-path route
Itinerary
Day 1: Khandbari (1,036m)
Arrive at Tumlingtar, take a 20-minute jeep to Khandbari. Explore the town, gather supplies, and rest overnight at a hotel. Alternatively, reach Khandbari by bus from Dharan (6 hrs).
Day 2: Khandbari to Barabise
Take a 2-hour jeep ride to Barabise. Check into a hotel, explore, arrange guide/porter, and prepare for the trek.
Day 3: Barabise to Phakuwa (1,696m)
Start early to avoid heat. Easy trek. Reach Phakuwa by afternoon. Overnight at tea house.
Day 4: Phakuwa to Upper Handung (2,847m)
Challenging uphill trek (4–6 hrs). Carry dry food. Overnight in a hut with sleeping bag.
Day 5: Upper Handung to Phelele (3,709m)
Steep and toughest section. Cross Coeletro Bhir and Bikhbari. Stay in a hut. No water sources—carry enough.
Day 6: Phelele to Sabha Pokhari (4,200m)
Trek via Balaute Danda and Selele (7 hrs). Reach Sabha Pokhari, clean the hut, and rest.
Day 7: Rest at Sabha Pokhari
Explore lake, take bath, offer prayers. Enjoy nature. Overnight in the same hut.
Day 8: Sabha Pokhari to Panch Pokhari
Trek 5–6 hours with guide to reach Panch Pokhari. Stay overnight.
Day 9: Panch Pokhari to Anamde Danda
Start early. Trek to Anamde Danda and camp overnight.
Day 10: Anamde Danda to Mangsima
Descend 4–6 hrs to Mangsima village. Overnight at homestay.
Day 11: Mangsima – Deaurali – Khandbari
Trek to Deaurali (4–6 hrs). Take jeep back to Khandbari.
Day 12: Yangle Kharka to Dobato
Trek 4–6 hrs to Dobato. Overnight at tea house.
Day 13: Return to Kathmandu or Dharan
Fly from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu or take a bus to Dharan.