USD 650
590
Panchase Short Trek - 4 Days Cost, Map & Itinerary
The Panchase Trek offers a well-rounded experience that blends natural beauty, cultural immersion, and spiritual serenity. Starting with a peaceful boat ride on Phewa Lake, you’re immediately introduced to the stunning landscapes of the Annapurna region. As you ascend to Panchase Hill (2,500 meters), the trek rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of iconic peaks like Machhapuchhare and Annapurna. Along the way, you engage with local Brahmin and Gurung communities, gaining insights into their daily lives and traditions. The trek is easy, accessible for all ages, and affordable, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a memorable, low-impact Himalayan adventure.
Trip at a Glance
-
Country: Nepal
-
Trip grade: Easy
-
Destination: Pokhara
-
Activities: Trekking
-
Accommodation: Tea House/
-
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
-
.png)
Transportation: Public Bus
-
Group size: 2-29
-
Trip Start / End: Pokhara - Pokhara
-
.png)
Best Season: Autumn (September, October, and November)
Key Highlights:
- Panchase Hill summit (2,500 meters). A top spot for views in the Annapurna area.
- Vast panorama of mountains like Lamjung Himal, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Manaslu and Annapurna Himal
- Boat experience on Phewa Lake
- Mix of Brahmin and Gurung culture
- Closely involved in the lives of local people
- Spend quality time in Pokhara
- Easy hike. Suitable for all age groups
- Affordable trek when compared to other treks in the Annapurna area.
Trip Overview
The Panchase Trek is a premier short trekking route located near the picturesque city of Pokhara, Nepal, within the stunning Annapurna region. The name "Panchase" translates to the five aspects of existence: thinking, feeling, sensing, and manifesting, which reflects the holistic experience that this trek offers.
Your adventure begins with a serene boat ride on Lake Phewa, where you can soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayas and the lush landscapes that frame the lake. This tranquil setting is not only a feast for the eyes but also a haven for wildlife, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. The area is home to a rich tapestry of wildlife and diverse ethnic groups, providing a glimpse into the untouched beauty of nature and the vibrant cultures that inhabit this region.
As you ascend to the peak of Panchase Hill, which stands at an elevation of 2,500 meters, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of some of the most iconic Himalayan Mountains, including Machhapuchhare, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Lamjung, Gangapurna, and Manaslu. The trek takes you through lush forests that boast an impressive variety of flora, including over 100 species of orchids and magnificent rhododendron trees that bloom in vibrant colors, especially during the spring season.
Throughout the journey, you will have the opportunity to interact with various ethnic communities, such as the Brahmin, Magar, and Gurung people. Engaging with these communities allows trekkers to gain insight into their unique lifestyles, traditions, and customs, enriching the overall trekking experience. Panchase is not only a scenic hill station in the Annapurna Region but also holds spiritual significance as a sacred site for Hindus and other trekkers seeking solace in nature.
One of the highlights of the Panchase Trek is the chance to witness the mesmerizing sunrise over the snow-capped peaks, a moment that is both tranquil and awe-inspiring. This breathtaking spectacle is a perfect way to start your day, providing a sense of peace and connection to the majestic mountains that surround you.
The trek is designed to be accessible for people of all ages and fitness levels, making it an excellent choice for families, solo travelers, and groups alike. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a novice adventurer, the Panchase Trek offers a rewarding experience that combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and spiritual exploration.
Panchase village itself is nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, showcasing pristine beauty and a rich cultural diversity that spans
Notable natural features in Panchase include:
- Various flowers and plants like Rhododendron, Leksallo, and Sunkhari.
- Areas rich in herbs such as Chattre, Loth Salla, Satuwa, and Unyu.
- Wildlife includes animals like deer, bears, tigers, and pandas.
- Birdwatchers can spot species like Kalij and eagles.
- The Harpan Khola river which is the source of several well-known rivers, including Seti Khola, Jare Khola, Rati Khola, Adhi Khola, and Phewa Lake.
Itinerary
After breakfast in the morning,our guide will come to meet you.Then our guide will take you to enjoy a boat ride on Phewa Lake before starting your trek. The trail will first take you to the World Peace Pagoda, one of 80 peace pagodas worldwide. Along the way, you will see beautiful mountains, Phewa Lake, and the city below. The trek continues with a steep climb through a rhododendron forest and the small village of Lukum Swara. The day's hike concludes in Bumdi village, where the Gurung and Brahmin communities live. The distance is 10 km from the starting point, and it will take about 3 hours to walk.
You will camp overnight.
We will begin our hike early in the morning, walking through a lovely forest where you can catch glimpses of mountains peeking through the trees. Along the way, enjoy the natural scenery, including the mountains, lush greenery, playful monkeys, chirping birds, and a gentle breeze. You will see impressive peaks like Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, and Manaslu in the distance, along with others such as the Annapurnas, Lamjung, Gangapurna, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). A jeep path can also take us to Panchase Bhanjyang. The entire trek takes about 4 hours, covering a distance of 10.5 km from Bhumdi.
We will camp overnight.
After enjoying breakfast in the morning, you'll embark on a climb to Panchase peak, which rises to 2500 meters, marking the highest elevation of our trek. You can choose to wake up early to see the sunrise, or you can come later to enjoy the stunning views of the mountains and the area. After taking in the sights, we will descend to Aldana, walking through the hills. In the afternoon, you will enjoy a delightful stroll to the town of Bhadaure. Here, you can enjoy the diverse cultures of the Brahmin, Gurung, and Kami communities here. The descent is 7.5km on a flat trail and will take about 3 hours.
You will camp overnight.
Today, we will drive to Naudanda, navigating through bumpy roads and small villages. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with local residents and kids. When we get to Naudanda, we will have lunch and take a little break. After that, we will travel to Pokhara in a private jeep, enjoying the beautiful scenery along the way. Alternatively, you can choose to trek to Pokhara, which takes approximately 7 hours.
What is included?
- Pickup and drop-off services at the airport for all domestic and international flights.
- Stay for 3 nights in local tea houses in the mountains, sharing a twin room
- Travel from Naudanda to Pokhara via a local bus or jeep.
- Required permits include a local government entry permit, Annapurna Conservation Area permits, and a TIMS card
- Food during Trekking
- An English-speaking licensed trekking guide, including their meals and insurance coverage.
What is not included?
- Visa fees for arrival in Nepal.
- Gratuities for guides, drivers, porters, and other staff.
- Costs for additional days not included in the itinerary.
- Personal costs such as beverages, laundry, shopping, gear, hot showers, battery charges, and Wi-Fi.
- Any additional costs not listed in the expense breakdown.
- Travel insurance should cover medical needs and emergency evacuation, with a minimum coverage of USD 100,000.
- Accommodation in Pokhara.
Route Map
FAQ's
While Nepali is the primary language, most staff members in lodges speak English, and some may even speak other languages. Communication should not be an issue for international tourists.
It’s advisable to be up-to-date on routine vaccinations, including hepatitis A and typhoid. Talk to your doctor about the vaccinations you need for Nepal.
The majority of international flights arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, which is located in Kathmandu. From this location, travelers can connect to Lukla to commence their trekking journey.
You typically need a valid passport, a completed visa application form, and a passport-sized photo. Payment can be made in cash or via card at the airport.
Yes, tourist visas are eligible for extension at the Department of Immigration located in Kathmandu. Ensure you have a valid reason and required documents for the extension.
If you wish to extend your stay in Nepal beyond your visa’s initial duration, you can do so by applying at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu. Extensions are available for a maximum of 30 days, and it’s recommended to apply before your current visa expires. Best Heritage Tour can help you with the extension process if required during your Australian Camp Trek.
Equipment
- Sleeping bag (warmed to -6°C)
- Casual pants or light jeans
- Undergarments, gloves, mittens
- Ski jacket or parka
- Hiking shoes
- Water bottle
- Waterproof daypack or backpack
- Towel and toiletry set
- Wool shirt or sweater
- Flashlight or headlamp
Trip Info
Best Seasons for the Panchase Trek:
The Panchase Trek can be undertaken year-round, but the best time to trek is during the autumn months (September to November), which are ideal for most treks in the Annapurna Region and across Nepal.
Mid-September to Early December: This is one of the best times for the trek, with clear, breathtaking views. However, if the monsoon extends late, the weather can be cloudy, and there's an increased chance of rain.
Mid-December to February: During winter, the skies are generally clear, but temperatures are colder. If trekking during this period, warm clothing and appropriate gear are essential. There’s little chance of rainfall or snowfall.
March to April: Spring is another excellent time for trekking, offering dry weather and mild temperatures. Although rainfall is minimal, occasional storms in Pokhara may lead to some cloud cover in the Panchase area.
May to Mid-June: This is the pre-monsoon season, when the landscape is lush with blooming flowers and fresh foliage. While the weather can be beautiful, there’s a possibility of rain and cloudy conditions.
Late June to Early September: This is the monsoon season, which is not recommended for trekking. The trails are slippery, and the weather is often rainy and overcast. Although the views can be stunning between showers, the wet conditions make the trek challenging, with additional nuisances like leeches, snails, and slugs.
Some Useful Information’s for trek:
- Bring your personal belongings with you.
- Pack suitable trekking equipment, including a warm sleeping bag (rated for 20°F), undergarments, gloves, pants or light jeans, a ski jacket or parka, sturdy walking boots, water bottles, a flashlight or headlamp, woolen shirts or a sweater, a towel, a toiletry kit, and a waterproof daypack or rucksack.
- Check the weather and climate conditions in Nepal to choose the best season for your trek.
- A guide will ensure your safety, so stay calm and don’t rush if you encounter any issues.
- No advanced physical training is required, but being able to walk is important. Daily light exercise, like walking, cycling, running, or swimming, will be beneficial.
- The risk of altitude sickness is low, but it's wise to bring some medication just in case.
So, get ready to enjoy the Panchase Trek in Nepal with Best Heritage Tour.