Panchase Trekking
Facts of the trip
| Trip Code: | P.T 2 |
| Trip Duration: | 6 days |
| Max. Altitude: | 2517M |
| Grade: | Easy |
| Program Type: | Camping Trek |
| Trek Start Point: | Pokhara |
| Trek End Point: | Pokhara |
| Accommodation: | Camping |
| Meals: | Breakfast/Lunch and Dinner |
| Mode of Travel: | Trekking |
| Transportation: | Air/Bus/Car |
| Minimum Pax: | 5 |
| Best season: | March/April or October/November |
Panchase Trekking: A Journey into Nature and Culture
Introduction
Panchase Trekking is a short and serene Himalayan journey located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is perfect for trekkers who want to explore traditional villages, lush forests, and panoramic mountain views without the challenges of high-altitude trekking. Rich in biodiversity and spiritual importance, the Panchase route offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural depth. Whether you’re a first-time trekker or a seasoned adventurer, this trek provides a rewarding experience in just a few days.
About Panchase Trek
The Panchase Trek typically lasts 4 to 6 days, making it ideal for those with limited time. It begins near Pokhara, Nepal’s tourism capital, and takes you through remote villages, terraced farmlands, and sacred forested hills. The highest point of the trek, Panchase Hill (2,517 meters), is a famous viewpoint offering stunning sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Unlike more commercial treks like Annapurna Base Camp or Everest Base Camp, Panchase remains off the beaten path. This means fewer crowds and a more intimate connection with nature and village life.
Location
Panchase is located to the west of Pokhara, in the Kaski, Parbat, and Syangja districts of western Nepal. The trek typically begins from the village of Bhumdi, Kande, or even from the World Peace Pagoda near Phewa Lake. From here, the trail winds through subtropical forests, ridge lines, and rural settlements before reaching the sacred Panchase Hill.
The area lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), a protected region known for its environmental diversity and cultural heritage.
People and Culture
The Panchase region is home to various ethnic communities, including the Gurung, Brahmin, Magar, and Chhetri people. Over generations, these groups have successfully preserved their unique cultural identities, languages, and customs. Among them, the Gurungs are particularly known for their warm hospitality, vibrant festivals, and traditional dances. Moreover, while trekking through the region, you will have the opportunity to stay in welcoming homestays and tea houses operated by local families. These accommodations not only provide comfort but also offer an authentic glimpse into daily rural life This provides a unique chance to experience rural Nepali life firsthand—cooking on open fires, eating organic meals, and sharing stories with your hosts.
Religious Significance
Panchase Hill holds deep spiritual significance. It is considered a sacred site in both Hindu and Buddhist traditions. At the summit stands a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Local pilgrims gather here during special festivals, especially on Shivaratri and Buddha Jayanti.”
The name ‘Panchase’ comes from the Sanskrit words pancha (five) and aasan (seats). It refers to five sacred peaks believed to represent seats of divine power
These are connected with Lord Shiva, Ganesh, and other deities worshipped by local people.
Meditation caves, prayer flags, and spiritual monuments along the trail highlight the area’s religious importance.
Lifestyle of the Locals
The lifestyle in the Panchase region is deeply rooted in agriculture and traditional values. People here grow crops like rice, maize, millet, and vegetables on terraced fields. Animal husbandry is also common, with goats, buffaloes, and chickens seen around most households.
Most villagers live in stone or mud-brick homes with thatched or tin roofs. Their daily routines include farming, fetching water, cooking, and caring for livestock. Community bonds are strong, and festivals are celebrated with joy, music, and shared meals.
Despite limited access to modern amenities, the people here live in harmony with nature, carrying on age-old traditions.
Flora and Fauna
Panchase is a biodiversity hotspot. Along the trail, the trek takes you through subtropical and temperate forests, where you’ll encounter more than 100 species of orchids and over 500 varieties of medicinal plants. Especially during spring, the paths come alive with vibrant rhododendron blooms—Nepal’s national flower—adding color and fragrance to the journey
The forest canopy features oak, magnolia, laurel, pine, and bamboo. These forests support a range of wildlife, including langurs, barking deer, wild boar, and many species of butterflies.
Bird lovers will be thrilled with the diversity of avian life. Keep an eye out for colorful pheasants, Himalayan barbets, woodpeckers, and eagles soaring overhead.
Vegetation and Forest Cover
The Panchase trail passes through mixed forests ranging from subtropical broadleaf to temperate deciduous zones. This variation is due to the changing altitude along the route. Vegetation includes species like alder, chestnut, and rhododendron at higher elevations, while lower areas support sal and chir pine.
The forests are dense in parts, creating a cool, shaded atmosphere ideal for a relaxed walk. These natural corridors also act as important conservation zones for both flora and fauna.
Thanks to its protection under the ACAP, the Panchase area remains ecologically rich and relatively undisturbed.
Atmosphere and Scenic Beauty
The atmosphere on the Panchase trek is peaceful and calming. Unlike high-altitude routes that often involve extreme cold and physical strain, this trek offers a mild climate year-round, making it accessible to a wide range of age groups and fitness levels. From the summit of Panchase Hill, trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of iconic Himalayan peaks such as Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Lamjung Himal, and Manaslu. Moreover, sunrises here are truly spectacular—especially on clear mornings when the snow-covered peaks glow in brilliant shades of orange and gold. In addition to mountain vistas, the trail also presents stunning views of the Pokhara Valley, the shimmering waters of Phewa Lake, and the rolling green hills that characterize western Nepal
Nepal Freelance Guide and Company Services
Hiring a local freelance guide or booking through a reputable trekking company like The Himalayan Realms Treks and Expedition Nepal Pvt. Ltd. can enhance your Panchase trekking experience. Our company offers well-planned itineraries, professional English-speaking guides, and ethical tourism practices. We promote homestay experiences that support local families directly.
Our guides are from the region and know the trails, culture, and language. They provide cultural insights, handle logistics, and ensure your safety. We also arrange porters, permits, and transport, making your journey smooth and hassle-free.
Freelance guides offer personalized attention and can tailor the trek to your interests, fitness level, and timeframe.
Similar Treks in the Annapurna Region
If you enjoy the Panchase Trek, you might also consider exploring other similar routes in the Annapurna region that offer a blend of natural beauty and cultural charm
Royal Trek (4 days): Short and easy, offering views of Annapurna and village life.
Ghandruk Trek (3–5 days): Traditional Gurung villages and panoramic mountain views.
Dhampus-Australian Camp Trek (2–3 days): Great for beginners; scenic and close to Pokhara.
Mardi Himal Trek (5–7 days): Slightly more challenging, with close-up views of Machhapuchhre.
Sikles Trek (6–7 days): Remote Gurung villages and rich biodiversity.
All these treks offer unique experiences with fewer crowds, cultural interaction, and stunning nature.
Conclusion
The Panchase Trek is a hidden gem in the Annapurna region. It’s perfect for those looking for a peaceful, culturally rich, and environmentally diverse trekking experience without the challenges of high-altitude trails. From spiritual landmarks to untouched forests, the route offers a beautiful blend of nature and culture.
Local hospitality, sacred sites, and breathtaking Himalayan views make this short trek feel deeply meaningful. It’s an excellent choice for families, older travelers, or anyone seeking a quiet and rejuvenating Himalayan journey.
Whether you choose to travel with a knowledgeable local freelance guide or opt for the expertise of an experienced company like The Himalayan Realms Treks and Expedition Nepal Pvt. Ltd., your journey will be well-supported, culturally enriching, and carefully organized from start to finish. As a result, you will find the Panchase Trek to be a deeply rewarding adventure that captures the essence of Nepal’s natural beauty and traditional life. It reflects the essence of Nepal’s spiritual roots, natural charm, and warm-hearted communities—all in just a few days.
Day 01: Kathmandu to pokhara
Day 02: Pokhara to Bhumdi (1652m.)
Day 03: Bhumdi to Panchase Bhanjyang (2132m.)
Day 04: Panchase Bhanjyng to Bhadhure (1645m.)
Day 05: Bhadure to Pokhara (915m.):
Day 01:- Kathmandu to pokhara: Drive or fly to pokhara from Kathmandu and rest the Hotel.
Day 02:- Pokhara to Bhumdi (1652m.): Drive up to Thadokhola for about half an hour via David fall and trek about 2-hrs. Towards Bhumdi. Mt. Annapurna I II III and IV, Manaslu, Lamjung, Ganesh Himal and Fish Tail can be seen from where’ after lunch walk for 3-4hrs. And rest overnight.
Day 03:- Bhumdi to Panchase Bhanjyang (2132m.): Ascend for about an hour and still walking up and down through the forest and view the Himalayan chain after lunch trek another 2hr. through the forest watching the view of villages and ascend another 1hr. to reach Bhanjyang. A bird’s eye view of pokhara valley and Phewa Lake can be seen from here.
Day04:-Panchase Bhanjyng to Bhadhure (1645m.): Ascend towards the top of panchase Ridge (2432m.): after the breakfast to see the view of Himalayas with three 8000 mtr snow peaks. The highest point of this trekking. From here, one can view the pokhara valley, Kusma valley, Modi River all of Annapurna range, Mt. Dhaulagiri and other mountains. Then descend back to camp place for the lunch after lunch we go towards the Bhadure for the Night.still Mountain can be seen.
Day 05:-Bhadure to Pokhara (915m.): Start the trek for about 3 hrs. to reach Naudada and have lunch then drive back to Pokhara and rest.
| Start Date | End Date | Price In US Dollar($) | AVAILABILITY | Booking |
|---|
AVAILABILITY OPTIONS
OPENED: This date is available and open for bookings.LIMITED: There are very limited number of available places on this departure. Immediate booking.
GUARANTEED: We have reached minimum numbers and this trip is guaranteed to depart.
CLOSED: This date is currently unavailable. Please contact us, if you are interested in travelling on this date.
Your Program Duration = 6 days Days
All the Prices are in GBP (£) Per Person.
Cost Include
Cost included item
- 2 Night accommodation in Kathmandu with B/B basic plan
• Kathmandu to Pokhara transfer by bus or car.
• 1 Night’s accommodation in Pokhara with B/B basic plan
• All airport and hotel transfers
• National permit & TIMS permit (Trekking Information Management System)
• Accommodation, food and Tea/coffee during the trek
• including salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food and lodging
• Porter, including salary, insurance, equipment, food and lodging
• Transfer from Nayapul to Pokhara by private Car
• For jacket, Good sleeping bag (down jacket and sleeping bag are to be returned after trip completion)
• All government and local taxes
Cost Exclude
Cost Is Not Included
• Food in Kathmandu (Lunch & Dinner)
• Food in Pokhara (Lunch & Dinner)
• Nepal Visa fee
• International airfare from your country to Kathmandu and from Kathmandu
• Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu
• Travel and rescue insurance if guests get mountain sickness and need a rescue helicopter.
• Personal expenses example (phone calls, laundry service , bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle of boiled water, shower, etc.)
• Tips for guide and porters
our testimonials
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Dammaru Niraula was our guide and confidant for our recent visit to Nepal. We went on a humanitarian visit to build a hothouse in the village of Phortse in the Khumbu region of Nepal but also included some trekking on a personal level before and after our project. Dammaru was a vital link in getting the project off the ground and then…
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Dammaru Niraula Trekking Guide Trip Leader I have had an association with Dammaru over the last three years. My first trek with Dammaru was to the Solu Khumbu region where he tailored a trek to suit our request to climb some remote passes and stay off the main tourist routes where possible. His knowledge of the area was very impressive and his attention to our safety was always his major concern. The second trek I did with Dammaru two years…
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Dear Dammaru I have been trekking to Ghorepani poon hill on Jan 07 for 6 days with Mr. Dammaru. Poonhill is so beautiful, so all I can do is just taking pictures on poon hill. If you were planning to trek in Nepal, I…
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I was a member of a group of nine friends from Northamptonshire in 204 from the UK, on a trek of the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal. Apart from one member, we were all approaching or over the age of 60 and were all well aware of the difficulties we could encounter at Thorong La which sits at an altitude of 5,416 meters (17,769…
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My husband and I embarked on a trip to Nepal in October 2006. We were hoping to avoid the large tour groups and were referred to Himalayan Holidays based in Kathmandu as a provider of customized tours. We had looked on the net to determine the tour we wanted to undertake and spoke to many people and eventually decided 6-day on Ghorepani Poon…
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Dammaru Niraula was our guide and confidant for our recent visit to Nepal. We went on a humanitarian visit to build a hothouse in the village of Phortse in the Khumbu region of Nepal but also included some trekking on a personal level before and after our project. Dammaru was a vital link in getting the project off the ground and then as a support person in Nepal before, during and after. He completed the following tasks with the utmost professionalism and patience.
Arranged transfer of a large number of funds from Australian bank account to Nepalese bank account.
Communications with the village before we arrived to ensure the walls were built.
Organized our itinerary and necessary bookings for the trekking part of our journey for 8 adults.
Once we arrived in Nepal he then assisted us in purchasing all the gear we needed for the finishing of the hothouse. e.g. Polycarbonate roof sheeting and the many other bits of hardware necessary.
Transport of the roofing etc to Phortse village via helicopter, plane, yak, and porter.
As well as being a part of the project Dammaru also was our trekking guide for the duration of our trip of 5 weeks. He organized everything for us from the hotel, in Kathmandu and everything in between our trek to base camp.
He is honest, reliable and always puts the customer first. I would have no hesitation in recommending Dammaru to anyone who is considering a trip to Nepal.
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Dammaru Niraula Trekking Guide Trip Leader
I have had an association with Dammaru over the last three years.
My first trek with Dammaru was to the Solu Khumbu region where he tailored a trek to suit our request to climb some remote passes and stay off the main tourist routes where possible. His knowledge of the area was very impressive and his attention to our safety was always his major concern.
The second trek I did with Dammaru two years later. This trip was the culmination of a long term project to build hothouses in a village deep into the Solu Khumbu region.
www.himalyanhothouse.org To complete this project Dammaru had a pivotal role in developing contacts, sourcing materials helping to manage the project finances. During the preparations for the Hothouse project, we found Dammaru to be honest, prompt and very hardworking. He also showed a great understanding of our requests and needs for the project to be successful. During the trek, itself Dammaru co-ordinated seven of our group and six porters as well as an extra climbing guide. He also acted as a very effective interpreter and liaison with the people of the village of Phortse.
On a personal level, Dammaru is the most genuine man with a big heart. He shared the passion for our project and its humanitarian ideals. Once again our safety during the whole trek was his main concern. A phrase often used by Dammaru sums up his professional work ethic. Service is most important.
I would not hesitate to recommend the services of Dammaru Niraula if you plan to undertake a trek or similar activity in Nepal.
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Dear Dammaru
I have been trekking to Ghorepani poon hill on Jan 07 for 6 days with Mr. Dammaru. Poonhill is so beautiful, so all I can do is just taking pictures on poon hill. If you were planning to trek in Nepal, I would recommend you as one choice. His personality and professional guide skill makes me fun of Trekking and Nepal. so I am planning to go to Nepal again this August. He may meet all demand of you request on your trekking trip even though you join in the big group. Because he has more over 10 years experience of trekking guide for Many English and Japanese speaker. Actually, I have never met such a good Japanese speaker guide and I had no chance to speak in English with him.
I can recommend him to all people who need great experience guide with English or Japanese.
so you can get satisfaction for a great guide.
Very Thanks,
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I was a member of a group of nine friends from Northamptonshire in 204 from the UK, on a trek of the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal. Apart from one member, we were all approaching or over the age of 60 and were all well aware of the difficulties we could encounter at Thorong La which sits at an altitude of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet).
Our group was led by Dammaru Niraula and we were most impressed by his leadership qualities. He introduced us gently to the lower altitudes and gradually encouraged us on longer and more arduous days of trekking. At Manang, he encouraged us to take a day trek up the lower slopes of Gangapurna and Annapurna III (see my photo below) and afterward to attend an altitude safety lecture in Manang. We are all convinced that, without his careful attention to altitude safety, we would not all have completed the trek over Thorong La and some of us at least would have joined the many trekkers who are forced to descend suffering from altitude sickness. We will always be eternally grateful to Dammaru and his team of Sherpas.
Like many Nepalese, Dammaru has a very quiet and gentle nature with a keen sense of humor and fun. At first, he appears to be shy and reserved but is constantly attending to the needs of his guests, assessing their temperaments and abilities and adjusting the itinerary accordingly. After a few days in his care, you come to realize that you are in the hands of an experienced, competent and understanding mountain guide.
I can recommend him too highly and know that he will continue to offer excellent trekking facilities in the Himalayas.
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My husband and I embarked on a trip to Nepal in October 2006. We were hoping to avoid the large tour groups and were referred to Himalayan Holidays based in Kathmandu as a provider of customized tours. We had looked on the net to determine the tour we wanted to undertake and spoke to many people and eventually decided 6-day on Ghorepani Poon Hill trek. We live in a plain and therefore training for the trek was a challenge in itself. We spent our weekends climbing up and down a 700metre high hill that was regarded as sufficiently steep for our training needs. However, we were unsure of what to expect in Nepal and were concerned about our levels of fitness for the trek that we had in mind. We were introduced to our guide, Dammaru at the hotel we were staying in Kathmandu and our anxieties were quickly alleviated. This diminutive gentleman exuded confidence and assured us that he was able to accommodate our individual fitness levels and ensure that our time in his country was hassle free. And indeed he did! Without it being particularly noticeable, Dammaru controlled the tempo of our daily treks in order that the enjoyment factor always exceeded any physical discomfort. His relationship with the locals was both real & genuine which meant we never felt like intruders or uncomfortable in their presence. Dammaru's keen negotiation skills with the local tea house proprietors' meant the delay between arriving & unwinding from the challenges of our daily treks was minimal with the accommodation always being appropriate to our needs. His professionalism was faultless. He provided us with a wealth of information on all aspects of the history, culture, flora, and fauna of this remarkable country. Not only was he a fantastic guide, but his cheeky grin and sense of humor ensured Dammaru to be a fantastic traveling companion. Our dealings with Dammaru exceeded all expectations and we hope to make a return visit to this stunningly beautiful country.
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