Panchase Hill Trek
Trip Overview
Overview
The Panchase Hill Trek is a captivating adventure that combines the beauty of nature with cultural exploration in the Annapurna region of Nepal. This trek provides a wonderful opportunity to immerse oneself in the picturesque landscapes, dense forests, and serene lakes while experiencing the rich local culture. Starting from the beautiful city of Pokhara, the trek takes you through charming villages, terraced fields, and lush rhododendron forests. Panchase Hill, standing at an elevation of 2,500 meters, is the centerpiece of this trek and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The sunrise and sunset vistas from Panchase Hill are also truly awe-inspiring and make the trek a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Along the trail, trekkers also have the opportunity to interact with the warm and friendly Gurung and Magar communities. These ethnic groups have preserved their unique traditions, including their vibrant festivals, music, and dances. Staying in local tea houses along the way provides an authentic cultural experience, as you indulge in delicious Nepali cuisine and learn about the local way of life. The Panchase Hill Trek can also be completed in about five days, making it a perfect option for those with limited time or beginners looking for a shorter trekking experience. The trail is relatively easy, with a few uphill sections that are manageable for most fitness levels. Apart from the natural and cultural highlights, the trek also offers opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. The region is home to a diverse range of bird species and occasionally, you might catch a glimpse of wildlife such as langurs, deer, and Himalayan black bears.Conclusion and Summary
In conclusion, the Panchase Hill Trek is a delightful journey that combines the best of Nepal's natural beauty and cultural heritage. With its stunning vistas, cultural encounters, and moderate difficulty level, it is an ideal choice for trekkers seeking a fulfilling adventure in a shorter span of time.Trip Highlight
- Sightseeing of UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu Valley like Boudhanath, Pasupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square and Soon.
- It is one of the rural-cultural off the beaten trek of Nepal.
- Enjoy one of Nepal’s easier treks, great for families or those with moderate fitness
- Eye-catching views of Manaslu, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Annapurna III, Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal & Machapuchare.
- Visit the famous Davis Falls, a natural waterfall that cascades into a deep pool, and the Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, a mysterious cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Explore the natural beauty of the Pokhara Valley through hiking, or paragliding, and experience the thrill of adventure activities like zip-lining and bungee jumping.
- Pretty villages and farmland at Ghandruk
- Climb Panchase peak (2500m) for incredible views of the Annapurna ranges.
- Pokhara – the tourist capital of Nepal
- Easy access from Pokhara and there are three different routes to start the trek.
- Short trek suitable for all age groups
- Get a taste of rural Nepali life
- Harpan Khola – the origin of famous Phewa Lake flows from Panchase
- Easy trek without fear of altitude sickness or acute mountain sickness
- World’s endangered herbs as Satuwa, Chattre Unyu and Loth Salla
- Observe rural Nepali culture, lifestyle & agricultural practices in rural villages.
- Experience Pokhara – a hub of activity and tings to do such as boating & a walk to the World Peace Pagoda.
- Witness rural Nepali life in the villages, inhabited mainly by Gurung and Brahman people
- Encounter diverse wildlife of Flora and Fauna such as Tiger, Bear, Deer, Lophophorus (national bird of Nepal) and Himalayan Thar.
- Stunning Views of Sunrise from Panchase Peak Viewpoint
- Comfortable accommodation
Itinerary
Arriving at Kathmandu marks the beginning of your journey to Panchase Hill trek. We, Friendship World Trek, will receive you at the airport and take you to your hotel in a private vehicle. You will also meet with your FWT guide, who will brief you about the trek. You will be spending your night in Kathmandu.
- Overnight stay at a Three Star Hotel in Kathmandu
Kathmandu Valley is a microcosm of entire Nepal. Today, we will explore this ancient city rich in cultural heritage. You will visit UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath (the Monkey temple), Boudhanath, and historic Durbar Squares. As you relish these wonders, you will also get a brief insight into these places from our tour guide. After an entire day exploring Kathmandu, you will prepare for your trek that will start the next day. Your trek lead will conduct a final check of the equipment and gear you are carrying.
- Overnight stay at a Three Star Hotel in Kathmandu
- Included standard meal (Breakfast)
After a nice stay at the typical Gurung ethnic village today after breakfast you will proceed forward toward your wilderness path. The route goes up about an hour through the bushes of the hills forest with panoramic views of the Himalayans. The tweeting of small birds in the way with greenery hills will feel better while walking. After having lunch on the way you will hike towards Panchase Bhanjyang through a forest with stunning views of mountains and landscapes. You will have a beautiful view of Pokhara valley and Fewa lake today. Overnight stay at tea houses
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Phewa Lake
Phewa Lake is the second largest in Nepal and stands as the center of attraction in Pokhara. It is the most enchanting of the three lakes of Pokhara. You can sail or row a hired boat across the water or visit the island temple Barahi in its middle. The eastern shore, popularly known as lakeside, is the favorite among travelers. This is where most of the hotels, restaurants, and handicraft shops are located.
Barahi Temple
Built-in the center of Phewa Lake, the Barahi temple is the most important monument in Pokhara. This two-storied structure is dedicated to the boar manifestation of Ajima, the protester’s deity representing the female force Shakti. Devotees can be seen, especially on Saturdays, carrying male animals and fowl across the lake to be sacrificed to the deity.
Davis Falls
Davis Falls, also known as Devi’s Fall, is a popular tourist attraction located in Pokhara, Nepal. It is a unique waterfall that flows into an underground tunnel and disappears, creating a mysterious and intriguing experience for visitors. The waterfall was named after a Swiss couple who tragically died in the area in the 1960s. The water flow is particularly strong during monsoon season, and visitors can also enjoy the beautiful garden surrounding the falls. Davis Falls is a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring Pokhara Valley.
Gupteshwor Cave
Gupteshwor Cave is a natural wonder located in Pokhara, Nepal. It is a limestone cave that boasts intricate rock formations, underground waterfalls, and serene meditation chambers. The cave is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and visitors can see a large Shiva lingam as they enter the cave. The highlight of the cave is the majestic waterfall that cascades down into a small pool, creating a magical atmosphere. The Gupteshwor Cave is a unique and mystical experience that should not be missed by anyone visiting Pokhara Valley.
Overnight stay at a Lodges or Hotel in Pokhara
As you have a nice stay at Panchase Bhanjyang today after your good hilly breakfast your trek will start towards the Panchase height (2500m) through a jungle from where you can have a beautiful view of Kusma and Pokhara valley with the views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna range very nearer. Afterward, you have to descend through beautiful fields and jungles to reach Bhadaure. Overnight stay at Bhadure.
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Sarangkot
Sarangkot is a popular hill station located in the Pokhara Valley of Nepal. It offers stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan range, including the Annapurna range and Mount Machhapuchhre. The hilltop is particularly famous for its sunrise and sunset views, which attract thousands of visitors every year. Paragliding is another popular activity that can be enjoyed from Sarangkot, with visitors being able to soar over the valley and take in the breathtaking views. The hill station is also home to several tea houses, restaurants, and souvenir shops. A trip to Sarangkot is an essential part of any Pokhara Valley tour and a must-visit destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Bindabasini Temple
This is one of the oldest temples in Pokhara. It is said that when Pokhara was a part of the Kaski Kingdom, the main deity of the temple, Goddess Durga, was brought from India. Apart from the peace and tranquility that can be felt in this region, the premises of the temple offers a good view of the Himalayas on a clear day. The temple is in the area of the Bazaar; hence, a journey of the old bazaar can be combined with a visit to the temple.
Old Bazaar
Pokhara’s traditional bazaar is colorful and so are its ethnically diverse traders. In its temples and monuments, you can see ties to the Newar architecture of the Kathmandu Valley. Located about four kilometers from Lakeside, the market’s original charm is still alive and well. This area strewn with shops selling commodities ranging from edibles and cloth to cosmetics and gold is a pleasant and shady spot to stroll around.
The old bazaar is also home to one of Pokhara’s most important shrines. Locally called the Bindabasini Mandir, this white dome-like structure dominates a spacious stone-paved courtyard built atop a shady hillock. It is dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati, yet another manifestation of Shakti. The park-like ground offers a fine picnic area, and on Saturdays and Tuesdays when devotees flock there to offer sacrifices, it takes on a festive flavor.
Museums
The Pokhara Museum, located between the bus stop and Mahendra Pul, reflects the ethnic mosaic of western Nepal. The lifestyles and history of ethnic groups such as Gurungs, Thakalis, and Tharus are attractively displayed through models, photographs, and artifacts. One major attraction on display is a model highlighting the newly-discovered remains of an 8000-year-old settlement in Mustang. The museum is open daily, except on Tuesdays and holidays, from 10 am to 5 pm.
The Annapurna Regional Museum, also known as the Natural History Museum, is another interesting visit to Pokhara. Run by the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), the museum has an exceptional collection of butterflies, insects, birds, and models of wildlife found in the area. Located at Prithvi Narayan Campus east of the old bazaar, it is open daily except Saturdays and holidays from 9 am to 5 pm.
Seti Gandaki George
Seti Gandaki’s elusive depth makes it an attraction to most visitors. Flowing right through the city, the river runs completely underground at places. Amazingly, at certain points, the river appears hardly two meters wide. But its depth is quite beyond imagination (over 20 meters). Mahendra Pul, a small bridge near the old Mission Hospital, provides a perfect view of the river’s dreadful rush and the deep gorge made by its powerful flow.
Mahendra Cave
Another of nature’s wonders in Pokhara is the Mahendra Gupha. This large limestone cave is locally known as the House of Bats. The cave is a two-hour walk to the north of Pokhara. It is best to bring your own torch to see the stalactites and stalagmites, as well as the bats residing in the cave.
Overnight stay at a Hotel or Lodges in Pokhara
With the pleasant stay at Bhadure, today also after breakfast the trek will lead you towards Naudanda and kade through the nice villages and beautiful forest. Then, you will trek to Australian Camp where earlier Australia has dome camping. This is also considered the best viewpoint for the mountains. Then, you will follow the route toward Dhampus.
Overnight stay at tea houses
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Shanti Stupa, also known as the World Peace Pagoda sits on Anadu hill overlooking Pokhara’s Phew Tal (lake) and is a magnificent and prominent icon overlooking Pokhara. We will then drive to Thado Khola (river) passing another well-known tourist attraction – David’s Fall (or Devi’s Fall). After reaching Thado Khola we begin our trek to Pumdi Bhumdi walking through a forest with its unique flora and fauna. The trek initially ascends to a ridge and then descends to Pumdi Bhumdi where there are amazing views of Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Himalchuli, and the Annapurna Massif. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
After breakfast Dhampus trek down through the massive landscapes and villages. Today you will just go down. The trail is mostly uphill through the nice view of the Pokhara Valley, across the light forest and several local villages. After you reach Phedi, drive back to Pokhara. Overnight at hotel.
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Our day begins with a short climb through a forest with endemic flora and fauna and occasional clearings offering snow-capped mountain views. The forest is alive with birdlife and sometimes troops of monkeys. The trail continues and passes the small village of Thulunchour before connecting with a dirt road from where you have unrestricted panoramic views of the Annapurnas, Lamjung, Gangapurna, and Machapuchare (Fishtail) and three towering peaks over 800 meters: Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I and Manaslu off in the distance. The trail then heads to Panchase Bhanjyang a village with a mix of Gurung and Brahman villagers
An early start gets us on the trail (climbing up 500 stone steps) in time to enjoy the sunrise and morning light to capture the mountain views at Panchase Peak. This is the highest peak on our trek. We will make the most of our time at the peak and have breakfast and relax while taking in the exquisite beauty. We will then descend to Bhadaure where we will stay for the night..
Time Duration: 5-6 hrs walk
Meals: All breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accomodation: Camping trek
Today’s trek is not that hard compared to another day while we can see the views of the snow-capped mountain, terraced farm fields, and fertile valleys. The walk from Nayapul is gradual on the winding trail following the glacial river Modi upstream to camp at Syauli Bazaar, a small village at the bottom of Ghandruk village by the Modi River.
Time Duration: 3-4 hrs walk
Meals: All breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accomodation: Camping Trek
From here, continue a steeper descent that moves downwards to the Modi Khola river. You’ll cross an iron bridge leading you to a steep uphill that finally reaches Ghandruk with spectacular panoramas of the Himalayas. You’ll stay overnight in this trekker hub with its many lodges, eateries, and shops to stock up on sundry items. Take some time to visit the Gurung museum, a tiny exhibit in an old traditional house made of stone slabs where you can learn about the history and the local way of life.The trek leaves the river behind an uphill walk all the way to Ghandruk, passing villages, and farm fields with views of Annapurna. Gurung people are mostly farmers-shepherds and as well serving as gallant soldiers in the Nepalese -British and Indian armies.
Time Duration: 2-3 hrs walk
Meals: All breakfast, lunch, dinner on the trek
Accomodation: Camping Trek
Today we don’t have to walk a lot that’s why we can hike around Ghandruk for views, visit the local village, after lunchtime at Ghandruk, the trail leads downhill for an hour to Modi River, Leaving Deurali, you’ll begin a steep trek downwards to reach Tolkha, a beautiful ethnic Gurung village. To reach the next destination, Landruk, Another ethnic village, the trail is a more gradual descent passing through terraces and few settlements. after the bridge an hour climbs to the Landruk village for the overnight stop, with grand views of the surrounding landscapes and of Mt. Annapurna South and Huinchuli.
Trek Distance 4km / 2.4 miles
Highest Altitude 1,780m / 5,839ft
Trek Duration 3-4 hrs
Driving Hours 2-3 hrs
We have reached our final day on the trekking trails. Today we make a pleasant hike along the Modi River and head down to reach Siwa/Ghandruk Phedi. We then say goodbye to the trails and make a return drive through picturesque countryside to Pokhara.
- Overnight stay at Silver Oaks Inn (room with attached bathroom)
- Included meals (Breakfast + Lunch)
Once you arrive, you’ll meet your private jeep transfer waiting to take you back to Pokhara where you’ll catch a flight back to Kathmandu.
The rest of the afternoon and evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. You can shop for souvenirs or explore the capital’s streets on foot, bicycle, or rickshaw, seeing anything you may have missed at the beginning of your trip.
Time to say farewell to Nepal. Enjoy your last moments in Kathmandu with breakfast in a café, a city stroll, and/or souvenir shopping. A representative will meet you at your hotel and drive you to the airport for your return flight home. It’s good to be at the airport at least two hours prior to departure.
Departures & Availability
The set departure dates listed are specially quoted and specified for group joining option. Let us know if the set departure dates are not suitable for you- another dates which are suitable for you can certainly be added by us.
Check Available Dates
| Start Date | Price | Availability |
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All trip prices are per person based on double occupancy, are subject to change without notice and do not include airfare. All prices and fares are quoted in U.S. dollars.
Price include
In the Above Cost It Includes:
1. Airport Pick-up and Drop Off,
2. Licensed and trained trekking guides,
3. potters for carrying goods and supplies,
4. 4 Nights Accommodation in the 3 Star Hotel in Kathmandu with B & B. (Bed
& Breakfast)
5. All accommodation during the trek.
6. All meals and hot beverages during the trek.
7. Transportation to and from trail head.
8. All necessary documents and permits for trekking (where applicable)
9. National Park/Conservation Area entry Permit, Equipment such as tents And Mattresses, Cooking Equipment, Camp site charges, Insurance, and
equipment for the staffs.
10. Coordination of quick Rescue service (Costs covered by your Insurance Plan)
11. Trekking staffs wages etc.
Price Excludes
Services and Cost Does not Included in Price:
1. International Airfares,
2. Travel/Trekking Insurance,
3. Excess baggage charges More than 16kg and hand bag more than 5 kg in
domestic flights.
4. Visa fees.
5. Airport Departure Taxes.
6. Drinks (Cold and Alcoholic) Rescue charge.
7. Tips for The staffs.
8. Expenses of Personnel nature and Permit and Liaison officer fee (where Applicable.
9. Meals during stay in the Kathmandu.
10. Domestic Ticket Etc.
Gears And Equipment
Trip Information
Panchase Hill is a popular trekking destination in Nepal located in the western region of the country. It is a beautiful vantage point that offers panoramic views of the Himalayan range, including Mount Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Manaslu, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).
At an elevation of 2,500 meters (8,202 feet), Panchase Hill is surrounded by lush forests of rhododendron and oak trees, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and bird watchers. The area is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including Himalayan tahr, leopard, barking deer, and various species of birds.
There are several trekking routes to reach Panchase Hill, and the most popular one starts from the city of Pokhara, about 20 kilometers (12.4 miles) away. The trek takes around 3-4 days and passes through several villages and scenic landscapes.
In addition to trekking, Panchase Hill is an important cultural and religious site for the locals, with several Hindu and Buddhist shrines on its slopes. Many pilgrims visit the area to offer prayers and seek blessings.
Panchase Hill is a beautiful and peaceful destination that offers a unique blend of natural and cultural attractions, making it a must-visit place in Nepal for any trekking enthusiast or nature lover.
Weather and Climate
The climate in Panchase hill is mostly temperate and is characterized by four distinct seasons. The winter season, which lasts from December to February, is cold and dry with occasional snowfall. The temperature during this season ranges from 0 to 10 degrees Celsius.
The spring season, which lasts from March to May, is the most pleasant season in Panchase hill. The weather is mild and the temperature ranges from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. This season is marked by blooming flowers and greenery all around.
The summer season, which lasts from June to August, is hot and humid with occasional rainfall. The temperature during this season ranges from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. The monsoon season in Panchase hill starts in July and lasts till September. This season brings heavy rainfall which causes landslides and floods in the region.
The autumn season, which lasts from September to November, is another pleasant season in Panchase hill. The weather is mild and dry with a clear blue sky. The temperature ranges from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius during this season.
Panchase hill has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. The best time to visit this place is during the spring and autumn season when the weather is pleasant and mild. However, tourists should be cautious during the monsoon season due to the possibility of landslides and floods.
Attraction and Activities
The following are some of the main attractions and activities that you can enjoy in Panchase Hill:
- Hiking: Panchase Hill is known for its stunning hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains, lush green forests, and scenic landscapes. You can hike to Panchase peak, which is the highest point in the area and offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
- Boating: Phewa Lake, which is located near Panchase Hill, is a popular destination for boating enthusiasts. You can rent a boat and explore the calm and serene waters of the lake.
- Wildlife Safari: Panchase Hill is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. You can go on a wildlife safari and spot some of the rare and exotic species of animals and birds that inhabit the area.
- Meditation and Yoga: Panchase Hill is a perfect destination for those looking to unwind and rejuvenate their minds and bodies. The peaceful environment and serene surroundings make it an ideal location for meditation and yoga.
- Village Tour: You can take a village tour and explore the local culture and lifestyle of the people living in the area. You can interact with the locals, taste their local cuisine, and learn about their traditions and customs.
- Paragliding: Panchase Hill is a popular destination for paragliding enthusiasts. You can soar through the skies and experience the thrill of flying while enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Sunrise and Sunset Views: Panchase Hill is known for its stunning sunrise and sunset views. You can wake up early and hike to the peak to witness the sunrise or watch the sunset from one of the vantage points in the area.
Food and Accommodation
Panchase hill is a popular tourist destination in Nepal, known for its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife. If you are planning to visit Panchase hill, here is what you can expect in terms of food and accommodation.
Food:
There are a few options for food in Panchase hill. You can either bring your own food supplies, or you can eat at the few tea houses and restaurants in the area. The food options are limited and mostly consist of traditional Nepali cuisines such as dal bhat (rice and lentil soup), momo (dumplings), and chow mein (noodles). You can also find some snacks such as biscuits, chips, and chocolates.
Accommodation:
There are a few accommodation options in Panchase hill, including guest houses, lodges, and camping sites. The facilities are basic but comfortable. Most of the accommodations offer shared bathrooms, hot showers, and comfortable beds. Some of the lodges also have restaurants where you can get your meals.
If you are planning to camp, there are several camping sites where you can pitch your tent. However, it is important to note that you need to bring your own camping gear and supplies.
While the food and accommodation options in Panchase hill are limited, they are sufficient for a short stay. The real attraction of Panchase hill is its natural beauty and stunning views, which are sure to leave you awe-inspired.
Packages
- Panchase Trekking: This trekking package is designed to explore the natural beauty of the Panchase hill, located in the Annapurna region. The trekking trail passes through forests, ridges, and traditional villages, providing a glimpse of the lifestyle and culture of the local people. The trek takes about 4-7 days to complete.
- Annapurna Circuit Trek with Panchase Hill: This trekking package is a combination of the popular Annapurna Circuit Trek and Panchase Hill. The trekking trail takes you through the beautiful landscape of the Annapurna region and then to the summit of Panchase Hill, providing a panoramic view of the Himalayas. The trek takes about 18-20 days to complete.
- Panchase Hill Trek with Ghorepani Poon Hill: This trekking package is designed for those who want to explore the natural beauty of Panchase hill and also want to visit the famous Ghorepani Poon Hill. The trekking trail passes through dense forests, traditional villages, and beautiful mountain landscapes, providing an amazing trekking experience. The trek takes about 8-10 days to complete.
- Panchase Hill and Mardi Himal Trek: This trekking package is designed to explore the natural beauty of Panchase Hill and Mardi Himal. The trekking trail passes through beautiful mountain landscapes, dense forests, and traditional villages, providing an amazing trekking experience. The trek takes about 12-14 days to complete.
- Panchase Hill and Everest Base Camp Trek: This trekking package is a combination of the popular Everest Base Camp Trek and Panchase Hill. The trekking trail takes you through the beautiful landscape of the Everest region and then to the summit of Panchase Hill, providing a panoramic view of the Himalayas. The trek takes about 20-25 days to complete.
Panchase Hill Trekking Route Map
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FAQS
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Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishing software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.
Traveler Reviews
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