Lush forests, terraced hillsides, and panoramic Annapurna views — just outside Pokhara.
The Panchase Trek is the perfect introduction to Himalayan trekking — a beautifully accessible short journey through the forested ridgelines and terraced hillsides immediately west of Pokhara that delivers panoramic views of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre without demanding high altitude, lengthy preparation, or complex permits. Beginning with a short drive from Pokhara and ending with a scenic descent to the valley, the entire trek remains within a 30-kilometre radius of the city yet feels genuinely removed from the tourist trail.
The centrepiece of the trek is the summit of Panchase Peak (2,518 m) — an open, grassy summit with one of the finest 360-degree Himalayan panoramas accessible on any short trek in Nepal. From the top, the entire Annapurna massif, Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), and dozens of lesser peaks stretch across the horizon in an almost impossibly wide arc. The summit is most rewarding at sunrise, when the first light catches the snowfields in shades of gold and orange against a deep blue sky.
The 5-day recommended itinerary adds the highly regarded Australian Camp viewpoint and an extra forest and village day near Bhanjyang — creating a rounded, unhurried experience that combines mountain views, traditional Gurung and Magar village culture, and outstanding forest walking. This is an ideal trek for first-time visitors to Nepal, families with older children, and experienced trekkers seeking a quality short route near Pokhara.
Trail gallery
Drive: ~1–1.5 hrs to Khare | Trek: 4–5 hrs | Altitude: ~1,900 m | Overnight: Bhanjyang
Your Panchase adventure begins with a scenic drive west from Pokhara through the Seti River valley and up into the foothills to the village of Khare — the standard trailhead for the Panchase circuit.
Rest & Explore | Altitude: ~1,900–2,100 m | Overnight: Bhanjyang
A welcome acclimatisation and exploration day based at Bhanjyang — one of the most enjoyable aspects of the recommended 5-day itinerary.
Early Start: 5:00 AM | Summit Hike: 1–2 hrs | Total Trek: 5–6 hrs | Altitude: ~1,600 m | Overnight: Bhadaure
The highlight of the entire trek. Rise before dawn and follow the forest trail from Bhanjyang to the open summit of Panchase Peak (2,518 m) — a climb of one to two hours in cool, still mountain air.
Trek: 3–4 hrs | Altitude: ~1,980 m | Overnight: Australian Camp
A shorter, more relaxed day traversing the hillside from Bhadaure to one of the most celebrated viewpoints in the Pokhara region — Australian Camp.
Trek: 2–3 hrs | Drive: ~45 min–1 hr | End of Trek
A gentle final morning at Australian Camp — easily the best time to appreciate the unobstructed Himalayan panorama before the valley cloud builds.
| Permit Type | Cost (NPR) | Obtained From |
|---|---|---|
| Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) — if applicable | NPR 3,000 / person | NTB Office or through your agency |
| TIMS Card (with agency) | NPR 1,000 / person | Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) |
| TIMS Card (independent trekker) | NPR 2,000 / person | Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) |
| Trek Duration | 5 Days / 4 Nights (recommended) — 3-day option also available |
| Trek Grade | Easy–Moderate |
| Maximum Altitude | 2,518 m (Panchase Peak) |
| Trek Start | Khare (via Pokhara drive, ~1–1.5 hrs) |
| Trek End | Pokhara (via Kande drive) |
| Best Season | Spring (Mar–May) & Autumn (Sep–Nov) |
| Accommodation | Teahouses / Lodges |
| Meals on Trek | Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner |
| Daily Walking | 3–6 hrs (varies by day) |
| Required Permits | No major permits required (ACAP may apply — check locally) |
| Minimum Age | 7+ Years |
Read before you go
Key route details for timing, cash, safety and comfort on this trek.
Start the Panchase Peak sunrise hike no later than 5:00 AM — early morning offers the clearest visibility before valley cloud develops
Carry all required NPR cash before leaving Pokhara — there are no ATM facilities on the route
Trails above Bhanjyang can be confusing — a licensed local guide is strongly recommended even for experienced trekkers
Teahouse facilities are basic beyond Khare — hot showers and Wi-Fi may be available at extra cost in some lodges
Trekking poles are strongly recommended for the steep descent sections
Travel insurance covering emergency evacuation is recommended even on this shorter route
The itinerary may need adjustment due to weather or individual pace — flexibility is key
Tipping is customary: NPR 800–1,200/day for guide; NPR 500–800/day for porter
The 3-day option can also be run in reverse (Kande start, Khare finish) — ask your agency for details
