Trekking · Nepal
The Panchase Trek
A short 3–4 day trek to Panchase Hill (2,500 m) near Pokhara, a sacred forested ridge with Annapurna views and rich birdlife.
The Panchase trek is a short 3–4 day walk from Pokhara to a sacred, forest-clad hill rising to about 2,500 m, with a temple-topped summit that frames the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre and Dhaulagiri above Phewa Lake. It is one of the gentlest short treks in Nepal, combining a pilgrimage hill, rich birdlife and big mountain views with no altitude worries.
Overview and highlights
Panchase sits on the ridge between Pokhara and the Annapurna foothills, and its forest is protected for rare orchids, ferns and birds. The highlights are the sunrise panorama from the summit shrine, the dense, mossy cloud forest on the climb, and the quiet Gurung and Brahmin villages along the way. The route links naturally with the easy Australian Camp and Dhampus trek on the next ridge, so the two are often combined into a relaxed long weekend.
Itinerary
A typical 3-day plan from Pokhara:
| Day | Stage | Approx. altitude |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Drive to Bhadaure, trek to Panchase Bhanjyang | 2,030 m |
| 2 | Sunrise on Panchase Hill (2,500 m), trek to Bhanjyang villages | 1,800 m |
| 3 | Descend through forest, return to Pokhara | 820 m |
You can add a day by continuing to Australian Camp and Dhampus.
Difficulty and fitness
This is an easy to moderate trek with no altitude concerns, since the summit is only around 2,500 metres. Daily walks are short and the trails are clear, though the forest climb to the top is a steady pull. It suits families and first-timers, making it a perfect introduction to walking in the Nepali hills.
Best time
Spring (March–May) is lovely for the orchids and rhododendrons in the Panchase forest, while autumn (October–November) gives the crispest Annapurna views from the summit. Both are good for birdwatching. The monsoon brings cloud, mud and leeches; see the best time to visit Nepal for more.
Permits and cost
Part of the route lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area, so you need the ACAP permit (around USD 25) and a TIMS card (around USD 17–20). It is an inexpensive trek: on-trail food and lodging run about USD 20–30 a day, so a short trip is very affordable plus permits, a guide and transport. For kit and seasons, read our Nepal trekking guide.
Getting there
The trek is staged from Pokhara, with a short drive to the Bhadaure or Bhumdi trailhead and a walk back toward the lake. Lodges and homestays along the route are simple village-run affairs, in keeping with the quiet, low-key character of the hill. For another easy ridge walk nearby, see the Royal Trek.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Panchase trek?+
The Panchase trek usually takes 3 to 4 days from Pokhara, including the climb to Panchase Hill for sunrise and the descent. It can be done as a tight two-day overnight or extended by linking it with the Australian Camp and Dhampus ridge.
How high is Panchase Hill?+
Panchase Hill rises to about 2,500 metres. The summit, topped by a small temple, gives a panoramic sweep of the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre and Dhaulagiri to the north, with Phewa Lake and Pokhara visible below to the south.
Is the Panchase trek difficult?+
It is easy to moderate. The trek stays at low altitude with no risk of altitude sickness, the trails pass through villages and forest, and daily walks are short. The main effort is the steady climb through woodland to the summit ridge.
What permits do I need for the Panchase trek?+
Part of the route lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area, so you need the ACAP permit, around USD 25, plus a TIMS card, around USD 17 to 20. Both are easily arranged in Pokhara. Panchase is also a revered Hindu pilgrimage hill with temples on its forested summit.
