The Panchase Trek is a short and scenic trekking route located in the Annapurna region of Nepal, offering spectacular mountain views, rich biodiversity, and authentic village life. This trek is perfect for travelers looking for a peaceful, low-altitude trek with cultural experiences and panoramic Himalayan scenery.
Named after Panchase Hill (2,517m), the trek provides stunning sunrise and sunset views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges without the challenges of high altitude.
Overview
The trek usually starts with a short drive from Pokhara to Phedi, Kande, or Bhumdi, depending on the chosen route. The trail passes through lush forests, terraced farmland, and charming villages before reaching Panchase Hill.
From the summit, trekkers enjoy breathtaking Himalayan views and a tranquil natural environment. The trek then descends through different villages and forests back toward Pokhara.
Trip Highlights
- Rich birdlife and biodiversity (Panchase Conservation Area).
- Panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Manaslu.
- Sunrise view from Panchase Hill.
- Peaceful forest trails with rhododendron, oak, and bamboo.
- Ideal trek for beginners, families, and nature lovers.
- Traditional Gurung and Brahmin villages.
Itinerary
After breakfast in Pokhara, drive to Bhumdi village, the starting point of the trek. The trail ascends gently through terraced fields, local settlements, and lush forests. You will enjoy views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and the Annapurna range along the way.
Arrive at Chitre village, a peaceful settlement surrounded by forest. Overnight in a community homestay.
Accommodation: Homestay.
Meals: Lunch & Dinner.
Today’s trek continues through forest trails rich in rhododendron, oak, and bamboo. You pass several small villages where local people practice traditional farming.
Badaure is a Gurung village offering beautiful mountain and valley views. You can explore the village and interact with local families.
Accommodation: Tea house / Homestay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
This is the highlight day of the trek. You ascend through dense forest to reach Panchase Hill, the highest point of the trek. From the summit, enjoy panoramic views
01: Annapurna I & South.
02: Dhaulagiri expedition.
03: Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).
04: Manaslu (on a clear day).
After spending time at the viewpoint, descend to Panchase Bhanjyang.
Accommodation: Tea house
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
The trail descends through peaceful forests and traditional villages. You’ll enjoy changing landscapes and excellent views of Phewa Lake in the distance.
Reach Bhadaure or Sidhane, well-known Gurung villages close to Pokhara.
Accommodation: Tea house.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
On the final day, trek downhill through forest and village paths to Kande. From Kande, drive back to Pokhara, where the trek concludes.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch.
Cost Includes
- Airport transfers - pick up and drop upon arrival and departure.
- Full board basis on the way of trekking- Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner -3 meals per day and overnight accommodation at tea house lodge.
- Transportation- to and from starting and ending point.
- Necessary trekking permit, conservation and TIMS fee.
- Supporting staffs (trekking guide and porter), as well as their necessary insurance, and accommodation meals allowance and salary.
- 3- Nights accommodation in Kathmandu and 1-nights Pokhara in BB basis before and after the trek.
- Domestic airfare, airport tax, overland bus fare for (Kathmandu- Pokhara – Kathmandu) before and after the trek as you wish to have in your package.
- Comprehensive First aid kit pack for the trekking.
Cost Excludes
- Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara if extra days stay.
- Food (Lunch & Dinner) before and after the trip in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, alcoholic beverages, bottled drinks (including cold drinks and mineral/hot water/ hot drinks/shower tea-coffee, chocolate hot drinks).
- Travel insurance and emergency evacuation cost.
- Additional costs- extra days stay, incase of flight cancellation due to the natural calamities, bad weather forecast and other unforeseen circumstances
- Personal trekking gear for the trek.
- Tips for Guide,Porters and other supporting staff.
FAQS
Panchase Hill Trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal that takes you to the beautiful Panchase Hill, located in the Annapurna region. It is a relatively easy trek that offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
The best time to do the Panchase Hill Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer clear skies, mild temperatures, and excellent visibility of the mountains.
The duration of the trek can vary depending on your itinerary and fitness level. On average, it takes about 6-9 days to complete the trek. However, you can customize the duration according to your preferences.
To do the Panchase Hill Trek, you will need to obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
The Panchase Hill Trek is considered a moderate trek. Although it doesn’t involve any technical climbing, you will still need to have a good level of fitness and endurance. The trail includes some uphill and downhill sections, as well as occasional steep ascents.
Yes, there are tea houses and lodges available along the Panchase Hill Trek route. These provide basic accommodation and meals for trekkers. It is advisable to carry some cash with you, as credit card facilities may not be available in remote areas.
The Panchase Hill Trek offers several highlights, including panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, beautiful rhododendron forests, traditional villages, and the chance to experience the local culture and lifestyle of the Gurung and Magar ethnic communities.
Hiring a guide or porter is not mandatory for the Panchase Hill Trek, as the trail is well-marked and relatively easy to navigate. However, if you prefer to have assistance or if you have a heavy backpack, hiring a guide or porter can enhance your trekking experience.
Some essential items to pack for the Panchase Hill Trek include sturdy trekking shoes, warm clothing, a good quality sleeping bag, a backpack, a water bottle, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first aid kit. It is also recommended to carry some cash and snacks for emergencies.
Altitude sickness is generally not a concern on the Panchase Hill Trek, as the maximum elevation reached is around 2,500 meters. However, it is still important to acclimatize properly and stay hydrated throughout the trek. If you experience any symptoms of altitude sickness, it is advisable to descend to a lower altitude.
