PANCHASE HILL TREK
PANCHASE HILL TREK
A RELAXING FAMILY TREK AT A STEADY PACE & TIME TO ENJOY NATURE.
A LESS PHYSICALLY - LESS DEMANDING LOW ALTITUDE TREK FOR THOSE SHORT ON TIME.
The Panchase Trek is an opportunity to view two of Nepal’s well-known mountain ranges - the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Massifs. This trek across more undulating low altitude mountains offers spectacular views of several 8000m plus peaks; Annapurna I (8091m), Machapuchare (6993m -Fishtail), Manaslu (8156m) and Dhaulagiri I (8167m) noticeable throughout the trek. Other, less towering peaks, such as Gangapurna (7455m) and Lamjung Himal (6987m) are also visible on this trek.
With time to mingle among the villagers on this trek, you will better understand their unique cultures and lifestyle of the Gurung and Brahman castes. The trek begins at Pokhara, Nepal’s second-largest city and known as a hub for trekkers before they head on various treks to the Annapurna Conservation Area. The highest elevation on this trek is at the summit of Panchase Hill (2500m) with some awesome panoramic views – especially in the pure morning light with the sun rising over these Himalayan peaks.
Key Features of Panchase Trek
- Less strenuous and less physically demanding trek - particularly for families.
- Eye-catching views of Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal & Machapuchare.
- Climb Panchase peak (2500m) for incredible views of the Annapurna ranges.
- 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.
- Understand & mingle with the Gurung and Brahman villagers and discover their unique customs.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.
Sherpa Expedition & Trekking staff will be there to greet you at Tribhuvan International Airport and take you to your hotel, followed by a briefing covering information, do’s and don’ts of your trek.
Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (8,50m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Our journey begins with a 6-7 hour drive toward the Pokhara Valley and its beautiful Phewa Tal (lake) and then checking in to your hotel close to Phewa Tal. There is plenty to see and do along Lakeside with its many shops, bars and restaurants to choose from.
Day 3 : Drive to Shanti Stupa and & to Pumdi Bhumdi (1,500m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
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.
Day 4 : Trek from Pumdi Bhumdi to Panchase Bhanjyang (2,065m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
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.
Day 5 : Hike to Panchase Peak (2,500m) viewpoint & trek to Bhadaure; Duration: 7-8 hours.
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.
Day 6 : Trek from Bhadaure to Naudanda & drive to Pokhara (8,50m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we have a gentle downhill walk following a dirt road passing through several villages until we reach Naudanda from where we take the road back to Pokhara. [This trek can be extended by request]
Day 7 : Drive from pokhara to Kathmandu (1,350m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we head back on a 6 to 7 hour drive to Kathmandu with many fond memories of Nepal and its unique culture and geography. These memories will last a lifetime!
Day 8 : International departure from Kathmandu Airport.
Sherpa Expeditions & Trekking staff will transfer you to the airport for your final departure from Nepal. We hope that this epic trek will be firmly ingrained in your memory and will be enough to prompt you to consider your next trek with us!
SERVICES
Costs included:
- Airport picks up and transports by private Car/Jeep.
- Two night’s standard twin sharing Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- Two night’s standard twin sharing Hotel in Pokhara with breakfast.
- Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch & dinner) during the trek.
- Fresh fruits every night after dinner.
- Trekking lodge accommodation during the trek.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) entry permit & Tourist Infomation Management System (TIMS) permit.
- Transportation by Tourist Bus Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu.
- Private transport from Pokhara-Shanti Stupa -Naudanda-Pokhara.
- English speaking guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport, and insurance.
- A strong, helpful porter with his salary, meals, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
- Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (paid by your Travel insurance company).
- Optional use of the sleeping bag, down Jacket, duffel, and walking pole (to be returned after trip completed).
- Government taxes, service charges, and official expenses.
- Assistant guide group size above 8+ people.
- Trip achievement certificate after successful trip completion.
- Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) which will ensure your health during the trek.
Costs Exclude
- Meals whilst you are in Kathmandu & Pokhara - lunch, and dinner.
- Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $30 USD for 15-day, $50 USD for 30 Days, and $125 USD for 90 Days visa.
- Personal travel and medical insurance.
- International airfare.
- Your personal expenses.
- All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic, soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, extra food, cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses)
- All desserts & sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
- Hot shower and battery charging at the tea houses.
- Tips for the guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected)
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
General
- All season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide if you need it, but has to be returned after the trek)
- Duffle bag ( Sherpa Expedition & Trekking provide duffle bag during the trek but has to be returned after the trek)
- A wind and waterproof thin layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above 3,000m)
- Daypack
Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear
- A pair of half gloves
- A warmer hat that covers the ears
- Sunglasses
- Neckwarmer
- Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
- Headlamp and an extra set of batteries
Hands
- A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
- Warmer shell gloves and liner
Upper Body
- long sleeve t-shirts
- Thermal tops
- wool jacket or pullover
- Sports bras for women and girls
- Water and windproof shell jacket
Lower Body
- Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
- windproof and waterproof trousers
- warmer trousers
- Comfortable trekking pants
- Extra casual sport pants
Footwear
- A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
- Pair of sandals
- 4-5 pairs of woolen socks
- Sock liners
- Light shoes and sneakers
- First Aid Kits and Medicines
- Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
- Blister treatment cream or similar
- Insect / anti-itch ointment
- Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
- Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for altitude sickness)
- Warps, splints, and wound coverings butterfly bandage
- Water purifying pills
(Note our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well)
Miscellaneous - but must useful on the trek
- 4 passport size photos with original passport
- Water bottle & filter
- Flight details (please make a copy and leave one pic at our office in KTM because in case you want to change your flight date)
- Bathroom kit (conform, should be included toilet paper, plastic bags, hand wipes, towel, and soap, etc.)
Extra things
- Comfortable trekking poles
- Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
- Power bank and music players
- Camera (memory card, chargers, and extra batteries)
GOOD TO KNOW
Accommodation
You will be accommodated in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu. During the trek, we will be staying at lodges/ teahouses. You may find comfort and better quality teahouses - having attached bathroom at lower levels- until you reach higher elevations, where the accommodation is more basic with bare necessities.
Meals during the trek
In Kathmandu, your hotel includes breakfast, whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek. A staple food of these regions is potatoes, oats, buckwheat, Sherpa stew and Tibetan bread. Sherpa’s’ started farming potatoes when the first seeds were introduced to the region in the early 90s. There is a limited choice of food at higher elevations and except many potato dishes. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates – an excellent source of energy needed at high altitudes.
Transportation
We use a private car for sightseeing and for the airport to hotel pick and drop off. We use public transportation or local buses during the trek.
Physical fitness
This can be a challenging trek where you often have to walk 5-6 hours a day. You don’t need past experience of hiking or trekking but if you have done any kind of trekking activities then it is always a plus! We have met people from all walks of life, shapes, and sizes who have completed the trek. The only difficult part is when altitude sickness strikes and the effect that it can have on your body. Before leaving for Nepal it is good if you can prepare yourself physically by increasing your stamina and oxygen intake.
Remember – The better prepared – the more enjoyable your trek!
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FAQS
What is Panchase Hill Trek?
Panchase Hill Trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal that takes you to the beautiful Panchase Hill, located in the Annapurna region. It is a relatively easy trek that offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
How long does the Panchase Hill Trek take?
The duration of the trek can vary depending on your itinerary and fitness level. On average, it takes about 5-7 days to complete the trek. However, you can customize the duration according to your preferences.
What is the best time to do the Panchase Hill Trek?
The best time to do the Panchase Hill Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer clear skies, mild temperatures, and excellent visibility of the mountains.
What is the difficulty level of the Panchase Hill Trek?
The Panchase Hill Trek is considered a moderate trek. Although it doesn't involve any technical climbing, you will still need to have a good level of fitness and endurance. The trail includes some uphill and downhill sections, as well as occasional steep ascents.
What permits are required for the Panchase Hill Trek?
To do the Panchase Hill Trek, you will need to obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card. These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Are there teahouses or lodges along the trail?
Yes, there are teahouses and lodges available along the Panchase Hill Trek route. These provide basic accommodation and meals for trekkers. It is advisable to carry some cash with you, as credit card facilities may not be available in remote areas.
What are the highlights of the Panchase Hill Trek?
The Panchase Hill Trek offers several highlights, including panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, beautiful rhododendron forests, traditional villages, and the chance to experience the local culture and lifestyle of the Gurung and Magar ethnic communities.
Is it necessary to hire a guide or porter for the trek?
Hiring a guide or porter is not mandatory for the Panchase Hill Trek, as the trail is well-marked and relatively easy to navigate. However, if you prefer to have assistance or if you have a heavy backpack, hiring a guide or porter can enhance your trekking experience.
What should I pack for the Panchase Hill Trek?
Some essential items to pack for the Panchase Hill Trek include sturdy trekking shoes, warm clothing, a good quality sleeping bag, a backpack, a water bottle, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first aid kit. It is also recommended to carry some cash and snacks for emergencies.
Is altitude sickness a concern on the Panchase Hill Trek?
Altitude sickness is generally not a concern on the Panchase Hill Trek, as the maximum elevation reached is around 2,500 meters (8,200 feet). However, it is still important to acclimatize properly and stay hydrated throughout the trek. If you experience any symptoms of altitude sickness, it is advisable to descend to a lower altitude.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
100%
Based On 9 Reviews
Usama Nile
Australia
December 7, 2023
A Trekking Gem
My friend and I discovered a true trekking gem with the short Panchase trek organized by Sherpa Expedition. The views of the Annapurna range were awe-inspiring. The guide and porter were knowledgeable and attentive, ensuring our safety and satisfaction throughout the trek. We highly recommend Sherpa Expedition for an exceptional trekking experience.
Lynn Hendricks
Denmark
November 15, 2023
A Perfect Trekking Experience
My friend and I had a perfect trekking experience during the short Panchase trek with Sherpa Expedition. The views of the Annapurna range were simply breathtaking. The guide and porter from Sherpa Expedition were professional and accommodating, ensuring our comfort and safety throughout the trek. We highly recommend them.
Imogene Taylor
Australia
November 1, 2023
An Unforgettable Adventure
Completing the Panchase trek with Sherpa Expedition was an adventure like no other. The breathtaking views of the Annapurna range left us speechless. The guide and porter provided by Sherpa Expedition were knowledgeable and attentive, making the journey enjoyable and safe. We highly recommend their services.
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