Panchase Trek, Nepal: Itinerary, Route and Cost (2025)
PLANNING TO GO ON THE PANCHASE TREK IN NEPAL?
Panchase is a short trek near Pokhara and it was a big surprise for me. The panoramic views of the Annapurna Range I saw was beyond any expectations I had!
The Panchase Trek is generally an easy trek in Nepal. It is a low altitude trek, with the highest point, Panchase Peak, being at 2,517 metres. You don’t need a permit for Panchase and if you are an experienced trekker, it can also be completed solo.
The Panchase Trek can be done in 2 or 3 days (depending on where you start) and is a less touristic trekking route. It means, there are not that many people on the trail so you can enjoy being in the nature much more.
There are 3 starting points to the Panchase Trek: Bhadaure, Ghatichhina or Bhumdi, and you can start or finish the trek at either village. The route you go, can depend on your preference or your trekking guide’s suggestion.
So here is everything you need to know about the Panchase Trek, including itineraries, route, costs, what to pack and more!
Panchase Trek Information
Panchase Trek Is For You If You…
- Want to go on a short trek near Pokhara
- See the panoramic views of the Annapurna Range (on a clear day!)
- Want to be in nature with not many trekkers around
- Test yourself before going on a longer trek
- Go on an affordable trek (no need for permit, and prices are not as expensive as on other “more popular” treks)
Panchase Trek Difficulty
The Panchase Trek is generally easy and is good for beginners. It is a short trek and can be done in 2 or 3 days.
It is a low altitude trek, and the highest point is Panchase Peak at 2,517 m (8,260 ft). Altitude sickness can usually start above 2,500 metres, so on the Panchase Trek, altitude sickness is not something to worry about.
From what I have heard, many people who just want to see the sunrise from Panchase Peak go for the 1 night/2 days trek – starting and finishing in Ghatichhina.
If you go for the 3 day trek option, it feels more like actual trekking as you spend more time on the trail in nature.
Best Time for Panchase Trek
The best time for trekking in Nepal (as well as Panchase Trek) is between October to mid-December. The second best time is in the Spring, between mid-February to April.
The weather patterns can change, so the views are not guaranteed but generally Autumn and Spring has the best views and weather when trekking in Nepal.
I did the Panchase Trek towards the end of December and I was lucky with good views. Although I heard that just before I arrived to Panchase Bhanjyang, the views were cloudy and not so good.
Panchase Trek Permits
The Panchase Trek does not require any permit, so you can go on this trek without getting a permit.
Panchase Trek Guide Rules
There is no requirement to take a trekking guide to Panchase Trek. So, if you trek in a group, or you are an experienced solo trekker, then you can trek Panchase without a guide.
If it is your first time trekking, it is best to go with a guide. Having a guide is not just for safety, but with a guide, you can also learn a lot about Nepal and Nepali culture along the way.
Nepal tried to enforce a guide rule in 2023, making it mandatory for foreigners to take a guide. In reality, it was never enforced and you can trek most trails without a guide.
The only exceptions are the restricted areas in Nepal (e.g. Upper Mustang, Manaslu Circuit) where you really have to go with a guide.
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Panchase Solo Trekking
Panchase can be trekked solo, however, do not go on your own if you are not an experienced trekker or if it is your first time in Nepal.
I trekked Panchase solo but I have already done other treks in Nepal, so I felt safe to do so.
The trail can be navigated using both maps.me (maps.me on the Apple Store, maps.me on Google Play) and following the pink ribbons that mark the trail.
Sometimes, the trail is not so straightforward as it goes through a forest, but together with maps.me and the pink ribbons, it is possible to make it through.
Panchase Trek is not as popular as other treks like EBC, ABC or Langtang, so you are likely to not meet many (or any!) other trekkers.
Thus, if you go alone and not sure which way to go, you are not likely to meet other trekkers or villagers along the way to confirm the direction.
I enjoyed solo trekking Panchase as it was peaceful. I loved being in the nature without the high number of trekkers you meet on other trails. Nevertheless, for safety, it is always better to go with a guide.
Panchase Trek Navigation
If it’s your first time trekking in Nepal, it is best if you go with a trekking guide. The Panchase Trek is not a touristic trek and you will not meet many trekkers on the way.
While I trekked Panchase, I never met anyone on the trekking trail. I have done some treks in Nepal before, so I did it solo and it was fine. Otherwise, if you are not an experienced trekker, it is better to take a guide.
The trekking route goes through forests and mostly it is marked by bright pink ribbons along the way (especially from Panchase Bhanjyang to Bhumdi). There are some sections where it is not well marked but online maps (maps.me) (maps.me on the Apple Store, maps.me on Google Play) can give you the direction to go.
The route is marked on maps.me but in reality, as you walk, some sections of the trail is not so clear which way it goes. If you are trekking it solo and not sure which way to go, look around to see the pink ribbons.
In the section from Panchase Bhanjyang to Bhumdi, many times you will find yourself in an open field from where there are various footpaths to go. Just look around, and see which path has the pink ribbon and continue that way.
Network Coverage
The Network coverage is pretty good along the Panchase Trek. There are some sections along the way where there is no network but otherwise, it is available almost all throughout the trek.
I had my NCell SIM during the Panchase Trek, which had network for many parts of the trail. Nepal Telecom/Namaste has usually better coverage in the mountains, so that probably works even better.
Panchase Trek Route
There are 2 main options for the Panchase Trek route and you can start or finish at either destination. Thus, depending on your preference, you can complete the trek either way.
Panchase Trek Route 1: Ghatichhina – Panchase Bhanjyang (+sunrise hike to Panchase Peak) – Ghatichhina (1 night/2 days trek)
Panchase Trek Route 2: Bhadaure –Panchase Bhanjyang (sunrise hike to Panchase Peak) – Bhumdi (2 nights/3 days trek)
Ghatichhina or Bhadaure are the most popular starting points for the Panchase Trek.
Starting and finishing in Ghatichhina is popular for those that are looking for a short trek and mostly interested just see the sunrise from Panchase Peak.
The trail between Ghatichhina and Panchase Bhanjyang is also said to be easier than the one from Panchase Bhanjyang to Bhumdi.
Panchase Trek 3 Days Itinerary
The Panchase Trek 3 Days Itinerary is best for those that want to spend a little bit more time in nature and don’t just want to go to Panchase for 1 night to see the sunrise.
For a 3 day trek, it is popular to start from Bhadaure and then finish it in Bhumdi.
There is also another alternative to start the trek in Ghatichhina or Bhumdi, and finish the trek in Bhadaure. From Bhadaure, you can also continue on to the Australian Camp and Dhampus.
With extending the trek to Australian Camp, you still do not need a permit. However, if you wanted to go to Mardi Himal, then you’d have to get an ACAP permit in Pokhara beforehand.
Day 1: Bhadaure (1,647 m) to Panchase Bhanjyang (2,070 m): 6.1 km, 2 hours walk
Day 2. Sunrise hike to Panchase Peak (2,517 m) and trek to Bhumdi (1,300 m):
- Panchase Bhanjyang to Panchase Peak: 2 km, 1 hour walk one-way
- Panchase Bhanjyang to Bhumdi: 14 km, 4.5 hours walk
Day 3. Bhumdi (1,300 m) to Pokhara (788 m)
Once you get to Bhumdi, you can decide if you want to take a bus or walk to Pokhara.
The buses go 3 times a day from Bhumdi to Pokhara, two in the morning (between 9-11 am) and one in the afternoon (around 4 pm).
You can also walk from Bhumdi to the Shiva Statue and take a bus from there.
Alternatively, walk from Bhumdi to the Shiva Statue, continue to the World Peace Pagoda, hike down to Phewa Lake and take a boat back to Lakeside.
Panchase Trek Map: 2 Days
Panchase Trek 2 Days Itinerary
The Panchase Trek 2 days itinerary is popular for those that are short on time but looking to spend some time in nature.
If you don’t have much time, the easiest way to get to Panchase is from Ghatichhina. Ghatichhina and Pokhara are connected by regular buses, so it is easy to get there.
Day 1: Ghatichhina (845 m) to Panchase Bhanjyang (2,070 m): 8.6 km, 4 hours walk
Day 2: Sunrise hike to Panchase Peak (2,517 m) and trek to Ghatichhina (then bus from Ghatichhina to Pokhara):
- Panchase Bhanjyang to Panchase Peak: 2 km, 1 hour walk one-way
- Panchase Bhanjyang to Ghatichhina: 8.6 km, 3 hours walk (it is faster downhill)
Panchase Trek Packing List
Panchase is a short trek and you really don’t need to pack a lot of things. I usually go trekking with a 28 litre backpack and pack very minimal.
As Panchase can be done in 2 or 3 days, you can pack very light and carry only a few essential items.
I trekked Panchase in December and a wind jacket and layers kept me warm enough. December is winter season in Nepal, but the altitude of Panchase is not so high, so it does not get as cold as at 4,000 metres.
Also, Panchase is not a trek going close up to the Annapurna Range, so it makes it less cold. Thus, even if you trek in winter, it will likely not be extremely cold.
Here is what I packed for a 2 nights/3 days Panchase Trek:
Clothes:
- 2 x T-Shirts
- 1 x long sleeved T-Shirt
- 1 x fleece jumper
- 1 x North Face wind jacket
- 1 x trekking shoes
- 1 x trekking pants
- 1 x yoga pants
- 1 x buff/scarf
- 1 x hat
- 1 x gloves
- 2 x socks
- 2 x underwear
- 1 x sports bra (for women)
- 1 x quick dry towel
Other Items:
- Headlamp (for the sunrise hike)
- Toiletries (toilet paper, tissues, baby wipe)
- 1 x thermos, 1 x Nalgene bottle
- Other items: shower gel, toothbrush, toothpaste, face cream, body lotion, hand sanitizer)
- Medicines: paracetamol + any other personal medication.
Panchase Trek Teahouses
For the most part of the trek, you find the typical Nepali teahouses for accommodation. Except for around Bhumdi, where they have proper hotels with attached bathroom and comfy beds.
Bhadaure Village Teahouses
Bhadaure is a small village and some people stop here for a breakfast and some spend a night here.
There are some guest houses in the village and there is one which is located on the top of the village, the Panchase Greenhill Guest House and Restaurant. From here you get great Himalayan views.
Panchase Greenhill Guest House and Restaurant
- Location: on top of Bhadaure, just as you arrive from or leave to Panchase Bhanjyang
- Accommodation Costs: Rs. 700/night
- Food Costs: They have a typical Nepali menu. Some costs for example: Rs. 60 for tea, Rs. 250 for omelette, Rs. 450 for dal bhat
Panchase Bhanjyang Village Teahouses
There are a good number of teahouses in Panchase Bhanjyang and you don’t have to worry about booking ahead as it is not a popular trek with high number of trekkers.
I heard many Nepali go up to Panchase Bhanjyang for Friday night, so in peak tourist seasons (Autumn, Spring), Fridays might be the busiest times.
The oldest hotel in Panchase Bhanjyang is the Happy Heart Hotel and it has been running for 30 years.
The ladies who run the Happy Heart Hotel are super nice and told me stories of what trekking was like in the area when they were kids. It felt like reading Tiger for Breakfast.
Happy Heart Hotel
- Accommodation Costs: Rs. 600/night (+free wifi and charging available)
- Food Costs: Typical Nepali menu. Some costs for example: Rs. 60 for tea, Rs. 250 for omelette, Rs. 250 for Tibetan bread, Rs. 450 for dal bhat, Rs. 450 for mixed thupka
- Type of Accommodation: Teahouse (toilet and bathroom outside)
Bhumdi Village Teahouses
If you finish the Panchase trek in Bhumdi, you have two options on which part of Bhumdi you stay in. The first option is more like a staying in the village part of Bhumdi and the second one is more in the “centre” of the village with higher end hotels.
The first option is just as you arrive in Bhumdi from Panchase Bhanjyang, you will still be in the more village-like part of Bhumdi. Here you can find basic accommodation and still feel like you are on a trek.
The views from here are also really great. Honestly, when I got there I had some of the best views of the Annapurna Range and with the houses on the hillside, it looked like a painting!
Then, if you still have the energy, you can walk for another 45 minutes, to reach the centre of the village. If you continue walking, you will feel like you are not on a trek anymore as Bhumdi village is busy and most of the hotels overlook the hills, rather than the mountains.
Himalayan View Teahouse
- Location: just as you arrive in Bhumdi, coming from Panchase Bhanjyang
- Views: Panoramic views of the Annapurna range on a clear day
- Type of Accommodation: Teahouse
Dream Home Guest House and Restaurant
- Location: more in the “centre” of Bhumdi
- Views: view of hills (no view of mountains)
- Type of Accommodation: Budget hotel (including wifi, attached bathroom and hot water shower)
- Accommodation Costs: Rs. 1,000/night
- Food Costs: Veg dal bhat Rs. 500, Chicken dal baht Rs. 650
I stayed here at the Dream Home Guest House and it is a good place to stay if you are looking for a hot shower and comfortable beds.
On the other hand, the views from here only overlook the hills, so if you want to have nice views of the Annapurna Range then it is better to stay at the Himalayan View Teahouse, or near there.
Panchase Trek Cost
In total, I spent Rs. 4,510 (USD 33) for a 2 nights/3 days Panchase Trek. This does not include costs for a guide as I trekked solo.
If you plan to go with a guide, it costs around Rs. 2,500-3,000 per day for a trekking guide. Thus, including guide costs, a 2 nights/3 day Panchase Trek costs around Rs. 10,500 (USD 77).
Here is the breakdown if all costs, including accommodation, food and transport:
Accommodation Costs
In total, I spent Rs. 1,600 for accommodation.
It includes 1 night stay in a teahouse in Panchase Bhanjyang for Rs. 600. In addition, 1 night stay in Bhumdi in a mid-range hotel for Rs. 1,000.
Panchase Trek Accommodation Costs: Rs. 600 + Rs. 1,000 = Rs. 1,600
Food Costs
In total, I spent Rs. 2,700 for food during 3 days. Here are my spendings for food per day in each village:
- Bhadaure Food Costs: Rs. 300 (including omelette Rs. 250, tea Rs. 50)
- Panchase Bhanjyang Food Costs (Happy Heart Hotel): Rs. 1,600 (2 dal bhat, 2 tea, 2 Tibetan bread)
- Bhumdi Food Costs (Dream Home Guest House): Rs. 800 (dal bhat Rs. 500, noodle soup Rs. 300). I got free complimentary tea and bottled water.
Transport Costs
I took the local bus to get to the starting point of the trek and also at the end, to get back to Pokhara. In total, I spent Rs. 210 for bus fare.
- Bus from Pokhara to Kande: Rs. 110
- Bus from Pumdikot Shiva Statue to Pokhara: Rs. 100
There is a bus from Hari Chowk (Pokhara) to Kande at 7 am in the morning. Kande is a popular starting point to the Australian Camp or Mardi Himal, but from here, you can also get on the trail to Panchase.
There is also a bus from Pokhara Baglung Bus Park to Bhadaure at 3 pm in the afternoon. I met some other travellers who took this bus, and paid the driver some extra money to drive them all the way to Panchase Bhanjyang!
If you take a taxi from Pokhara to Bhadaure it costs around Rs. 2,000 (USD 15). You can negotiate the price the day before with a taxi driver, or just find one on the spot in the morning.
If you finish the Panchase trek in Bhumdi, you have the option to walk to the Shiva Statue in Pumdikot. The taxi from the Pumdikot Shiva Statue to Pokhara costs Rs. 1,500.
From the Pumdikot Shiva Statue, you can also walk to the World Peace Pagoda, hike down to Phewa Lake and take the boat across to Lakeside.
Trekking Guide Costs
Trekking guides usually cost around Rs. 2,500-3,500 (USD 20-25) per day in Nepal.
I went without a trekking guide, but these are general guide costs that can be applied to the Panchase Trek as well.
Price of Other Items
- Wifi: free
- Charging: free
- Hot water (drinking): free
- Hot shower: free
On popular treks in Nepal (EBC, ABC, Langtang and many others) you have to pay extra for wifi, charging, hot shower or hot water for drinking.
Panchase Trek is not visited by many tourists, so the prices have not inflated that much yet.
Nepal Trekking Itineraries
Not sure about the Panchase Trek? Check out my itineraries and posts about trekking in Nepal:
FAQs: Panchase Trek Nepal: Itinerary, Route and Cost
How far is the Panchase Trek?
The length of the Panchase Trek depends on which route you go and whether you plan it for 2 or 3 days.
The shortest 1 night/2 days trek from Ghatichhina to Panchase Bhanjyang (+ sunrise hike to Panchase Peak) covers 11 km (4.5 hours of walking) one-way. For two-ways, it’s 22 km and 9 hours of walking.
If you go on the 2 nights/3 days trek from Bhadaure to Panchase Bhanjyang (+Panchase Peak hike) to Bhumdi, then it is 24 km (8.5 hours walking) in total.
What is the altitude of Panchase?
The altitude of Panchase Peak is 2,517 metres, while the village below it, Panchase Bhanjyang is at 2,000 metres.
Which is the shortest trek from Pokhara?
Two of the shortest treks from Pokhara are the Australian Camp and Panchase Trek.
The Australian Camp can be completed in 1 night/2 days, while the Panchase Trek can be extended to a 2 days/3 nights trek.
Which trek is best for beginners in Nepal?
If you want to go on a short, low altitude trek, Panchase and Australian Camp near Pokhara are a good option.
Some longer, and higher altitude treks that are good for beginners include Langtang and Pikey Peak Trek.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Panchase is a short trek near Pokhara and it has great panoramic views of the Annapurna Range on a clear day!
The Panchase Trek is generally an easy trek in Nepal. It is a low altitude trek, with the highest point, Panchase Peak, being at 2,517 metres. You don’t need a permit for Panchase and if you are an experienced trekker, it can also be completed solo.
The Panchase Trek can be done in 2 or 3 days (depending on where you start) and is a less touristic trekking route. It means, there are not that many people on the trail so you can enjoy being in the nature much more.
There are 3 starting points to the Panchase Trek: Bhadaure, Ghatichhina or Bhumdi, and you can start or finish the trek at either village. The route you go, can depend on your preference or your trekking guide’s suggestion.
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