Panchase Trek
The Panchase trek is a quiet 3-day trek from Pokhara to a sacred, forested ridge west of Phewa Lake. Cross the lake by boat, climb past the World Peace Pagoda, and walk through villages, terraces and rhododendron and oak forest to Panchase Bhanjyang. At dawn, climb to Panchase Danda (about 2,500 m) for a sweeping view of Dhaulagiri, the Annapurnas and Machhapuchhre, with Phewa Lake far below.
Few foreign trekkers come here, and the forests are rich in birds and orchids. Graded easy to moderate, it suits beginners and families with older children. ACAP-area permit where needed, guide, lodges or homestays, meals on the trek and transport back to Pokhara are included.
Trip highlights
- Boat across Phewa Lake and the World Peace Pagoda
- Sunrise from Panchase Danda (about 2,500 m)
- Views of Dhaulagiri, the Annapurnas and Machhapuchhre
- Quiet forest trails rich in birds and orchids
- Village homestays
Short itinerary
View detailed itineraryPanchase Trek overview
Quick answer: the Panchase trek takes 3 days from Pokhara, reaches about 2,500 m at Panchase Danda and costs from US$220 per person. It is graded easy to moderate, with 4–6 hours of walking a day, and is best from October to April.
The hilltop is a sacred site with a small temple near the summit, visited by local pilgrims. Panchase is one of the few places near Pokhara where you can walk for days through forest with hardly another trekker in sight. Read more in our best treks near Pokhara.
At a glance
| Trip fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3 days from Pokhara |
| Highest point | Panchase Danda, about 2,500 m |
| Grade | Easy to moderate |
| Start and finish | Pokhara (boat across Phewa Lake; drive back) |
| Best time | October–April |
| Cost | From US$220 per person |
Why choose Panchase?
- Quiet trails with very few trekkers.
- Sunrise panorama of Dhaulagiri, the Annapurnas and Machhapuchhre.
- Forests full of birds, orchids and rhododendrons.
- Starts on foot from Pokhara, via a boat and the World Peace Pagoda.
- Village life in Gurung and Brahmin communities.
Day-by-day itinerary
What’s included
Included
- Pick-up from your hotel in Pokhara
- Boat across Phewa Lake and private vehicle back to Pokhara
- Licensed, English-speaking trekking guide
- Teahouse or homestay accommodation (2 nights)
- Meals as listed in the itinerary
- Permits and local fees where required
- All government and local taxes
Not included
- Accommodation and meals in Pokhara
- Porter (can be added)
- Travel insurance
- Drinks, snacks and hot showers
- Tips for your guide
Useful info
Fitness
You should be comfortable walking 4–6 hours a day on hilly trails and stone steps.
Weather
October to April has the clearest views; winter mornings are frosty on the ridge; spring brings rhododendrons. The monsoon is wet, misty and leechy.
Accommodation
Lodges and homestays on Panchase are simple, with shared bathrooms.
Travel insurance
Please travel with insurance covering trekking up to 3,000 m.
Packing list
- Comfortable walking shoes or light boots
- Warm layer for the sunrise
- Rain jacket
- Head torch
- Sun hat and sunscreen
- Refillable water bottle
- Binoculars for birdwatching
- Leech socks (monsoon)
Add-ons & trip options
Choose add-ons and quantities on the booking form.
More trip options, quoted on request:
- Porter for families.
- Extra night on the ridge for birdwatching.
- Paragliding in Pokhara after the trek.
Frequently asked questions
3 days from Pokhara.
About 2,500 m at Panchase Danda.
Easy to moderate, with 4–6 hours of walking a day.
From US$220 per person.
Dhaulagiri, the Annapurnas and Machhapuchhre.
No, it is one of the quietest treks near Pokhara.
Yes, for children who enjoy walking; we can add a porter.
October–April.
Yes, the forests are excellent for birdwatching.
Yes, a licensed guide is included.