Panchase Trek
A natural viewpoint and cultural area known for its rich biodiversity, peaceful trekking routes, and sacred Hindu-Buddhist sites.
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- Start
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- Pokhara
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- Duration
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- 3 days
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- Highest point
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- 2,517m
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- Difficulty
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- Moderate (lots of stone steps)
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- Finish
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- Pokhara
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- 1 person
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- $560 per person
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- From 2 persons
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- $525 per person
About this trek
Panchase is a beautiful hill area located to the west of Pokhara, in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It’s both a natural viewpoint and a cultural area — known for its rich biodiversity, peaceful trekking routes, and sacred Hindu-Buddhist sites.
The name “Panchase” comes from the Nepali words “Pancha” = five and “Ase” or “Aashraya” = seats or places. So, Panchase literally means “the place of five seats”, referring to five sacred hilltops in the region.
What makes Panchase special?
1. Incredible Himalayan Views
From the top, you get one of the best panoramic views of the Himalayas without having to go on a long or high-altitude trek. From Panchase Hill, you can see: Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South & Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal, Manaslu. On a clear day, the sunrise view here rivals the one from Poon Hill — but with far fewer people.
2. Biodiversity
Part of the Panchase Protected Forest Area. Home to over 100 species of orchids and rhododendron forests. Rich birdlife and medicinal plants. Beautiful in spring (March–May) when the rhododendrons bloom.
Itinerary
A 3-day journey to a natural viewpoint and a cultural area, known for its rich biodiversity, peaceful trekking routes, and sacred Hindu-Buddhist sites.
Pokhara → Ghatichina → Sidhane – Bhanjyang
Drive: From Pokhara to Ghatichina (about 1–1.5 hours).
Trek: From Ghatichina (≈1,100 m) to Bhanjyang (≈2000 m) gradual uphill through forest and villages. Scenic countryside walk through Gurung villages. Beautiful forest trails and terraced farmlands. Peaceful overnight stay in Bhanjyang (basic teahouse or homestay).
Bhanjyang → Panchase Hill → Australian camp
Wake up early today and hike up to Panchase Hill (2,517 m) to see the sunrise (optional but highly recommended). Views of Annapurna, Manaslu Himal, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri and Lamjung Himal.
Descend: Return to Bhanjyang, then trek toward Australian camp
From Kande: short trek (1.5–2 hrs) on a peaceful forest trail to Australian Camp (2,050 m). Panoramic sunset views of the Annapurna range. Overnight at a teahouse in Australian Camp.
Australian Camp → Dhampus → Pokhara
2–3 hrs trek downhill via Dhampus village (1,700 m). Great morning mountain views. Walk through charming Gurung villages and terraced fields. Arrive back in Pokhara by afternoon.
Drive back from Phedi (the road point) to Pokhara (30–40 minutes).
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