Panchase Trek

The Panchase Trek, situated near Pokhara but away from the mainstream Annapurna trail, provides an authentic rural-cultural experience. Ideal for visitors seeking natural beauty without missing views of the Annapurna Himalayan Range.

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Good To Know

  • Duration 3 days
  • Activity Trekking
  • Difficulty Type Easy
  • Best Season Spring and autumn
  • Max. Altitude 2500 m
  • Accommodation Deluxe Hotels & Tea House
  • Meal Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Trip Starts Pokhara

The Panchase Trek, situated near Pokhara but away from the mainstream Annapurna trail, provides an authentic rural-cultural experience. Ideal for visitors seeking natural beauty without missing views of the Annapurna Himalayan Range. Starting with a boat trip across Lake Phewa, the trek includes a climb rewarding panoramic views of Annapurnas, Machhapuchhare, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu. Passing through the World Peace Pagoda, forests, and villages, the trek culminates at Panchase Hill’s 2500m summit, offering a chance to witness a dramatic sunrise over the Himalayas. Panchase, known for its five tall hills, features temples, a view tower, and Buddha statues, providing stunning views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Lamjung Himal, and Manaslu. The area, including Pancasila Lake and Barah temple, is sacred for yoga and meditation.

Panchase Trek Highlights 

1. Panchase Trek provides stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, including iconic peaks like Machapuchare and Manaslu.

2. Immerse yourself in the local culture by interacting with Gurung and Magar communities in traditional villages along the trekking route, gaining insights into their customs and hospitality.

3. Visit the tranquil Panchase Lake, nestled amidst alpine forests, offering a serene setting for relaxation and reflection.

4. Escape the crowds of more popular trekking routes; Panchase Trek provides a quieter and less-visited alternative for those seeking a more peaceful trekking adventure.

5. Explore diverse landscapes, from rhododendron-filled forests to oak groves, and encounter various bird species and wildlife, enhancing the trek with natural beauty and biodiversity.

Best Time for Panchase Trek

The best time to trek the Panchase is during the spring and autumn seasons in Nepal. These periods offer the most favorable weather conditions, clear skies, and optimal temperatures for trekking.

Spring Season (March to May)

Spring is one of the most popular and best times to trek in the Annapurna  Region, which includes the Panchase Trek. During this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is generally mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C at lower elevations, while higher elevations are cooler.
  • Clear Views: The skies are typically clear, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountian), Hiunchuli, Dhaulagiri, and Lamjung Himal.
  • Flora: The rhododendron forests are in full bloom, creating a vibrant landscape with colorful flowers and lush greenery.
  • Crowds: Though this is a popular trekking season, the Panchase trekking trail remains less crowded than other treks in the Annapurna Region.

Autumn Season (September to November)

Autumn is another ideal time to trek the Panchase this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is stable with clear skies, low humidity, and pleasant temperatures, similar to spring. Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C at lower elevations, while it is cooler at higher altitudes.
  • Clear Views: Autumn is known for its crisp air, providing excellent visibility of the surrounding peaks and landscapes.
  • Festivals: This season aligns with major Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar, offering cultural insights and opportunities to experience local traditions.
  • Crowds: Though autumn is the peak trekking season in Nepal, the Panchase Trek trails are less crowded compared to other treks.

Off-Season Considerations

While spring and autumn are the best time for the Pancahse Trek, some trekkers prefer off-season trekking for a unique experience. However, these periods come with challenges:

  • Winter Season (December to February): Trekking in winter offers solitude and stunning snowy landscapes, but temperatures can drop significantly, especially at higher elevations. Trails might be icy, and some teahouses could be closed.
  • Monsoon Season (June to August): The monsoon brings heavy rain, making trails slippery and increasing the risk of landslides and leeches. The clouds and rain can also obstruct mountain views.

Overall, spring and autumn offer the best combination of weather, views, and cultural experiences, making them the ideal times to trek the Panchase. If you’re planning a trip during the off-season, be prepared for additional challenges and always check weather forecasts and trail conditions in advance.

Itinerary

  • Accommodation
  • Max Altitude
  • Meal

Embark on a journey from Pokhara by boarding a boat to cross Phewa Lake. Following this, hike for approximately 45 minutes to reach the Peace Pagoda. From there, continue the trek to Bhumdi. The last ascent of the day will lead you to Bumdi village, inhabited by Gurung and Brahman communities. This village offers a cultural experience, providing an opportunity to learn more about the local cultures. Choose from accommodation options such as camping or teahouses for an overnight stay. The estimated walking time for this leg of the trek is around 5-6 hours

  • Accommodation
  • Max Altitude
  • Meal

After a brief ascent to invigorate you, the trail meanders through a picturesque forest where glimpses of mountains are a frequent sight through the trees. Today promises a treat for nature enthusiasts, with the path weaving through a variety of trees and plants, accompanied by the soothing sounds of birds overhead – you might even spot a monkey! Briefly emerging from the forest at Thulunchour, the journey continues beneath the forest canopy until the trail converges with a dirt road. From here, you can enjoy sweeping panoramic views of several mountains, including the Annapurnas, Lamjung, Gangapurna, and Machhapuchhare (Fishtail), along with distant sightings of three peaks exceeding 8,000 meters: Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, and Manaslu. Continuing along the jeep trail leads you gently uphill to Panchase Bhanjyang. Much like the accommodation from the previous night, this village is inhabited by Gurung and Brahman communities. Accommodation options include camping and teahouses, and the estimated walking time is approximately 5 hours, covering a distance of 10-11 kilometers.

  • Accommodation
  • Max Altitude
  • Meal

This morning, ascend the stone steps leading to the Panchase peak at an elevation of nearly 2,500m—the highest point of your trek. Once at the summit, you’ll once again be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. There’s also the option to rise early and reach this vantage point in time for the sunrise. Take a moment to catch your breath and absorb the scenic beauty before descending down the opposite side of the hill to Alldanda. In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely walk downhill to your campsite, where you’ll have regular glimpses of the mountains above and the villages below. The campsite is positioned just above the town of Bhadaure, providing an opportunity to experience a blend of cultures, with residents including Gurung, Kami, and Brahman. Finally, drive from Nauda Danda to Pokhara to conclude your journey.

Inclusions

What’s Included

  • Airport Transfers: Arrival and departure transfers to and from Pokhara.
  • Accommodation: Accommodation in standard hotels in Pokhara with breakfast included. Lodging in teahouses or trekking lodges during the trek.
  • Transportation: All necessary transportation during the trek.
  • Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek. Meals are typically from a set menu at the teahouses.
  • Experienced Guide: An experienced trekking guide with a good knowledge of the local culture, history, and trekking routes.
  • Porters: Porters to carry your main luggage (up to 10-15 kg per person) during the trek, allowing you to hike with a lighter daypack.
  • Trekking Permits: All necessary trekking permits.
  • First Aid: Basic first aid kit and emergency oxygen supply.

What’s Excluded

  • International Flights: The cost of international flights to and from Nepal is not included in the package.
  • Nepal Visa: The cost of obtaining a tourist visa for Nepal upon arrival at the airport is not included.
  • Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers trekking activities, medical emergencies, and evacuation.
  • Personal Expenses: Expenses such as additional snacks, beverages, souvenirs, and tips for guides and porters are not included.
  • Additional Activities: Any optional activities, such as extra sightseeing and paragliding in Pokhara, are not included.
  • Sleeping Bag and Trekking Gear: You may need to rent or purchase trekking gear and a sleeping bag if you do not have your own.
  • Extra Nights: Any additional nights of accommodation in Pokhara or outside the trek itinerary are not included.
  • Extra Costs Due to Delays: Costs incurred due to flight delays, road closures, or other unforeseen circumstances are not covered.
  • Personal Medications: Any personal medications or medical expenses are not included.

FAQs

The Panchase Trek is a trekking route near Pokhara, offering a unique rural-cultural experience away from the mainstream Annapurna trail. It provides stunning views of the Annapurna Himalayan Range and encompasses cultural highlights such as the World Peace Pagoda, forests, villages, and the sacred Panchase Hill.

The trip includes a boat trip across Lake Phewa, a climb to Panchase Hill’s 2500 m summit offering panoramic views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhare, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu. Additionally, trekkers can explore the World Peace Pagoda, forests, and villages, and witness a dramatic sunrise over the Himalayas.

Accommodation options include camping and teahouses, providing a comfortable stay for trekkers along the route.

The best time to undertake the Panchase Trek is generally during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is pleasant, offering clear views of mountains.

The Panchase Trek is considered to be of moderate difficulty, suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness. The trail involves some ascents and descents but does not require technical climbing skills.

Throughout the trek, visitors have the opportunity to interact with communities, including the Gurung and Brahman people, and experience their unique cultures and traditions.

As of the latest information available, there are no special permits required for the Panchase Trek. However, it’s always recommended to check With local authorities or trekking agencies for any updates or changes in regulations.

Essential items to pack include appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions, sturdy hiking boots, a daypack, water bottle, Sunscreen, insect repellent, personal medication, and camera to capture the stunning views along the way.