How difficult is the Pokhara Panchase Trek?

Easy to moderate. Suitable for active beginners with no prior trekking experience. Most days involve 3 to 5 hours of walking. The longest day is the Panchase Hill summit and descent at 7 to 8 hours total.

What is the maximum altitude on the Pokhara Panchase Trek?

The highest point is Panchase Hill at 2,506m (8,222ft). Altitude sickness is not a significant risk at this elevation.

Are meals included on the Pokhara Panchase Trek?

Meals are not included on trek days. Budget $25 to $35 per day for three meals and drinks at teahouses along the route.

Is the Pokhara Panchase Trek suitable for families?

Yes. Low altitude, manageable daily stages, and well-marked forest trail make it one of the most family-friendly treks near Pokhara.

What is the best time of year for the Pokhara Panchase Trek?

October to November for clear mountain views. March to May for spring conditions and rhododendron bloom. June to August monsoon season is not recommended.

What is the Nepal visa fee?

Nepal tourist visas are available on arrival at Kathmandu airport. Fees: 15-day visa $30, 30-day visa $50, 90-day visa $125. Payment in USD cash.

Pokhara Panchase Trek

duration 10 days
from usd 820 All inclusive
difficulty Moderate ⓘ
best season Aug-May
max altitude 8,222 feet on top of Panchase Hill

Trip overview

Pokhara Panchase Trek: Rhododendron Forests and Annapurna Views Above Pokhara

The Pokhara Panchase Trek is the most immersive forest trekking experience in the Pokhara region. Over 9 days you combine Kathmandu sightseeing, a full day exploring Pokhara city, four days of mountain walking through dense rhododendron forest and traditional hilltop villages, and a farewell dinner before flying home. The route climbs from Pokhara through the World Peace Pagoda and Pumdi village to Panchase Hill at 2,506m (8,222ft), then descends through Bhadaure and Kande back to Pokhara by vehicle. Starting from $790 per person with all permits, guides, porters, and hotel accommodation included.

Panchase Hill is the highest viewpoint accessible on a short trek from Pokhara and one of the least crowded. The summit gives a full panorama of the Annapurna range including Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri. The route passes through some of the finest rhododendron forest in the region, spectacular in spring bloom. For a shorter alternative focused on Sarangkot and Australian Camp, see our Pokhara Panorama Trek. For a longer and more demanding option, see our Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. For a full overview of trekking in Nepal read our Nepal trekking guide.

Key Highlights:

Summit Panchase Hill (2,506m / 8,222ft) with panoramic views of the full Annapurna range
Trek through some of the finest rhododendron and oak forest in the Pokhara region
Visit the World Peace Pagoda above Phewa Lake, built by Japanese Buddhist monks
Walk through traditional hilltop villages including Pumdi and Bhadaure
Full day in Pokhara city: Phewa Lake, Davis Falls, Mahendra Cave
Kathmandu Valley sightseeing: Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, Durbar Square
All permits, guides, porters, and hotel accommodation included from $790
Ideal for beginners, nature lovers, and anyone wanting forest trekking over high altitude

Who Is This Trek For?

First-time trekkers wanting forest walking and mountain views without high altitude
Nature and photography enthusiasts drawn to rhododendron forest and birdlife
Families and mixed-fitness groups wanting a relaxed introduction to Nepal trekking
Travellers with 9 days who want Kathmandu, Pokhara, and genuine trekking in one trip
Anyone wanting a quieter, less visited alternative to the busier Pokhara foothills routes

Your Day by Day

day 01
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593ft)

A MountainKick representative meets you at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfers you to your hotel in Thamel. Your guide holds a brief trip introduction covering the itinerary, gear check, and what to expect. Evening free to explore Thamel.
- Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
day 02
Sightseeing around Kathmandu. Pre-trip meeting.

A full day exploring the Kathmandu Valley by private vehicle with your guide. Stops include Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. All entrance fees included. Pre-trip briefing in the evening.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meal: Breakfast
day 03
Tourist Bus Kathmandu to Pokhara (820m / 2,690ft)

A morning tourist bus west along the Prithvi Highway. The 200km journey takes 6 to 7 hours through the Trishuli River gorge and terraced hillsides. Arrive Pokhara by mid-afternoon. Evening free on the Phewa Lake promenade.
- Distance: 200km
- Time: 6 to 7 hours
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meal: Breakfast
day 04
Pokhara City Sightseeing (820m / 2,690ft)

A full day in Pokhara by private vehicle. Stops include Davis Falls, Mahendra Cave, the International Mountain Museum, and the World Peace Pagoda with panoramic views of the Annapurna range and Phewa Lake. Afternoon free at the lakeside.
- Accommodation: 3 star-hotel
day 05
Trek Pokhara to Pumdi (1,200m / 3,937ft) via World Peace Pagoda (1,100m / 3,608ft)

The trek begins from Pokhara’s lakeside. The trail climbs through forest to the World Peace Pagoda, a striking white Buddhist stupa built by Japanese monks with sweeping views of Phewa Lake and the Annapurna range below. The route continues through forest and terraced farmland to Pumdi village, a quiet hilltop settlement with a three-storey view tower overlooking Pokhara and the Himalayas.
- Distance: 10km
- Time: 5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Teahouse
day 06
Trek Pumdi to Panchase Bhanjyang (2,194m / 7,198ft)

The trail climbs north through increasingly dense rhododendron and oak forest toward the Panchase ridge. Alpine grasslands open up as the forest thins near the top, with the Annapurna range appearing ahead in full. Panchase Bhanjyang is a small settlement at the foot of Panchase Hill, the base for tomorrow’s summit push.
- Distance: 12km
- Time: 5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Accommodation: Teahouse
day 07
Morning hike to Panchase Hill (2,506m / 8,222ft), descend to Bhadaure (1,965m / 6,447ft)

An early start for the 2 hour summit hike to Panchase Hill at 2,506m. The full Annapurna massif is visible from the top including Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), and Dhaulagiri (8,167m). After returning to the village for lunch the trail descends steeply through forest to Bhadaure, a traditional farming settlement in the valley below.
- Distance: 14km including summit
- Time: 7 to 8 hours total
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Accommodation: Guesthouse
day 08
Trek Bhadaure to Kande (1,770m / 5,807ft), drive to Pokhara, Pokhara sightseeing

A final morning on the trail through forest and terraced fields to Kande village, the roadhead for the Panchase route. A private vehicle transfers the group from Kande back to Pokhara in about one hour. The afternoon is free for any remaining Pokhara sightseeing, lakeside walking, or rest before tomorrow’s bus.

Distance: 8km trek plus 1 hour drive
Time: 3 hours trekking
Difficulty: Easy
- Accommodation: Hotel
day 09
Tourist Bus Pokhara to Kathmandu, Farewell Dinner

Morning at leisure in Pokhara before the tourist bus east to Kathmandu. Arrive by early evening. Farewell dinner with traditional Nepali cuisine and cultural performances.

Distance: 200km
Time: 6 to 7 hours
- Accommodation: 3 Star-Hotel
- Meal: Breakfast and Farewell Dinner
day 10
Final Departure

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport timed to your flight.
- Meal: Breakfast

What's Included

Airport pickups and drops in a private vehicle
3-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara on twin-sharing basis with breakfast included
Guesthouse accommodation on trek days on twin-sharing basis
Kathmandu Valley sightseeing by private vehicle with guide, all entrance fees included
Pokhara city sightseeing by private vehicle with guide, all entrance fees included
Tourist bus Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu
Private vehicle Kande to Pokhara at end of trek
Licensed professional guide for the full duration of the trip
Porters (one per two trekkers) for trek days
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card
Traditional Nepali farewell dinner with cultural performances
MountainKick duffel bag, sun hat, and t-shirt as souvenirs to keep
All government taxes, official fees, and permit charges throughout the trip

What's Not Included

International flights to and from Kathmandu
Nepal visa fees (15-day: $30, 30-day: $50, 90-day: $125)
All meals on trek days (budget $25 to $35 per day)
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara except farewell dinner
Travel insurance (mandatory, must cover emergency rescue and evacuation)
Personal trekking gear and equipment
Alcoholic drinks, hot and cold beverages, bottled water, and snacks
Personal expenses including Wi-Fi, hot showers, battery charging, and laundry
Tips for guides and porters (recommended 10 to 15% of trip cost)
Any costs arising from early departure, illness, or unexpected itinerary changes

Where You'll Stay

In Kathmandu, you will stay in a three-star hotel while you will be staying at standard guesthouses during your travel. There will be electricity, internet, laundry and hot showers in all of the places you stay. You will have to share your room with a fellow traveller in our typical package. Single supplement will be served on request and will cost an additional USD 250.Also note that single rooms is easily available in Kathmandu and the trekking regions at lower elevation but it might be difficult to find them at higher elevations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Pokhara Panchase Trek?

This trek is rated easy to moderate and is suitable for active beginners with no prior trekking experience. Most days involve 3 to 5 hours of walking. The longest day is Day 7 with the Panchase Hill summit push and descent to Bhadaure at 7 to 8 hours total. No altitude preparation or prior Himalayan experience is required.
What is the maximum altitude?

The highest point is Panchase Hill at 2,506m (8,222ft) on Day 7. Altitude sickness is not a significant risk at this elevation.
How does this compare to the Pokhara Panorama Trek?

Both treks are based in the Pokhara region and suit beginners and families. The Pokhara Panorama Trek follows a different route via Sarangkot, Australian Camp, and Dhampus, reaching a lower maximum altitude of 2,165m. The Pokhara Panchase Trek goes deeper into the hills, reaches a higher summit at 2,506m, and passes through denser rhododendron forest with a more remote feel. The Panorama Trek is one day shorter at 9 days from $810. Both are excellent introductions to trekking near Pokhara and the right choice depends on whether you prefer ridge walking with lake views or forest trekking with a summit day.
What permits are needed and are they included?

Two permits are required: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card. Both are included in the MountainKick package and arranged before departure from Kathmandu.
What travel insurance do I need?

Travel insurance covering emergency rescue and evacuation is mandatory. Purchase your policy at home before travel and carry a printed copy throughout the trip. Contact your insurer to confirm trekking coverage is included.
Are there ATMs on the trail?

No. Withdraw all cash needed in Pokhara before the trek starts. Budget $25 to $35 per day for meals and personal expenses on trek days.
What does food cost on the trek and what is available?

Meals are not included on trek days. Budget $25 to $35 per day for three meals and drinks. Teahouses serve dal bhat, noodle soups, fried rice, eggs, pasta, porridge, and pancakes. Vegetarian options are available throughout.
What accommodation is provided?

In Kathmandu and Pokhara you stay in 3-star hotels on twin-sharing basis with breakfast included. On trek days you stay in teahouse guesthouses with simple clean rooms, beds, pillows, and blankets. Hot showers and Wi-Fi are available at most teahouses for a small extra charge.
Is this trek suitable for families?

Yes. The low altitude, manageable daily stages, and well-marked forest trail make it one of the most family-friendly treks near Pokhara. The combination of city sightseeing in Kathmandu and Pokhara alongside the trekking days makes it a well-rounded family trip.
What is the best time of year?

October and November for clear skies and sharp mountain views. March to May for spring conditions when the rhododendron forest is in full bloom. December to February is cooler but manageable. June to August monsoon season is not recommended.
What gear do I need?

Comfortable hiking boots, a light daypack, a rain jacket, warm layers for Panchase Hill evenings, sunscreen, and sunglasses. A full gear list is provided with your booking confirmation. Down jacket and sleeping bag are provided by MountainKick for the trek.
What is the Nepal visa process?

Tourist visas are available on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. Fees: 15-day visa $30 / 30-day visa $50 / 90-day visa $125. Payment in USD cash. Bring a passport-sized photo and ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned Nepal departure.
How much should I tip guides and porters?

Tipping is customary in Nepal and genuinely appreciated. A general guideline is 10 to 15% of your total trip cost shared across your guide and porter team. Tips are typically given at the farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
Can I extend or customise the itinerary?

Yes. MountainKick can customise the itinerary to add extra days, include additional sightseeing, or combine this trek with another route. Contact the team before booking to discuss options.

Good to Know

Permits and Paperwork: Two permits are required for this trek: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. Both are included in your MountainKick package and arranged in Kathmandu before departure. You need to supply your passport details, one passport-sized photo, and your Nepal arrival date.

Altitude: The maximum altitude on this trek is 2,506m at Panchase Hill summit. Altitude sickness is not a significant risk at this elevation making this one of the most accessible mountain treks in Nepal for first-time trekkers and families.

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance covering emergency rescue and evacuation is mandatory before you arrive in Nepal. Purchase your policy at home before travel and carry a printed copy throughout the trip. Contact your insurer to confirm trekking coverage is included.

Cash and Money: Withdraw all cash you need in Pokhara before the trek begins. There are no ATMs on the trail. Budget $25 to $35 per day for meals and personal expenses on trek days. Carry small denominations as change is limited at teahouses.

Meals on the Trek: Meals are not included on trek days. Teahouses along the route serve dal bhat, noodle soups, fried rice, eggs, pasta, porridge, and pancakes. Vegetarian options are available throughout. Budget $25 to $35 per day for three meals and drinks.

Seasons and Weather: The best trekking seasons are October to November for clear skies and sharp mountain views, and March to May for spring conditions when the rhododendron forest is in full bloom and the trail is at its most spectacular. December through February is cooler but manageable with the right layers. The monsoon season (June to August) is not recommended due to heavy rain, leeches on the forest sections, and poor visibility.

Fitness Level: This trek is suitable for active beginners with no prior trekking experience. Daily walking is 3 to 8 hours depending on the day. The longest day is Day 7 with the Panchase Hill summit push and descent to Bhadaure. A basic level of fitness is sufficient. No altitude preparation is required.

Visa Information: Nepal tourist visas are available on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. Fees: 15-day visa $30 / 30-day visa $50 / 90-day visa $125. Payment in USD cash. Bring a passport-sized photo and ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from Nepal.

Spare Days: We recommend planning at least one buffer day before your international departure. While this trek has no significant weather or altitude risks, unexpected delays can occasionally affect the Kathmandu to Pokhara bus journey.

Packing Checklist

General

2 season sleeping bag – one.
Spring down jacket – one.
Duffel – one. (We will provide you one complementary duffel bag for you to keep.)
35-45 liter daypack – one.

Head

Hat (shade hat or baseball cap). You can additionally tie a bandana around your head or neck. (Mountain Kick provides you a baseball cap as a complimentary gift.)
You can alternatively use balaclava, beanie, or hooded jacket which will be quite sufficient to keep you warm.
Glacier glasses with side shields and 100% UV protection as you will face very intense sun rays at higher altitude with high UV radiation level. If you use prescription glasses, you can find glacier glasses with prescription lenses.
Headlamp that use lithium batteries. (It is recommended you carry spare batteries.)
Neckwarmer (optional).
Lip balm – two sticks. (You lips are bound to get chapped in the cold and dry weather.)

Hand

Synthetic liner gloves – one pair.
Winter fleece gloves or wool gloves – one pair.
Shell gloves – one pair.
Hand warmer (optional). Wearing multiple layers of your gloves should be enough.

Torso

T-shirt – two.
Lightweight thermal tops – two.
Fleece jacket – one.
Windstopper jacket (optional).
Rain jacket – one.
For women: synthetic sports bra – two.

Legs

Nylon hiking shorts – two pairs.
Trekking pants – two pairs.
Synthetic underwear – four.
Synthetic long underwear – two.
Synthetic softshell pant – one pair.
Waterproof pant – one pair.
Jeans, cotton or khaki pant – one pair.

Feet

Synthetic liner socks – four pairs.
Heavyweight socks – three pairs.
Lightweight socks – one pair.
Waterproof light trekking boots – one pair. Choose wisely as you will be doing a lot of walking.
Sneakers – one pair. (You will not be trekking throughout your vacation).
Hiking gaiters (optional).
Sandals (optional).

First aid and medicines

Extra strength Excedrin for headaches.
Ibuprofen for general pain.
Imodium or Pepto-Bismol for gas, upset stomach or diarrhoea.
Diamox for altitude sickness.
Ointment for blisters and cuts.
First aid kit (optional). Our guides always carry a professional first aid kit with them.

Do not forget

Your passport. Passport size photos – four copies.
Airline tickets.
SPF 40 sunscreen for UV protection.
A Swiss army knife.
Aqua iodine tablets.
A toiletry kit with towels, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, hand wipes, soaps, etc.
Kerchiefs

Optional

Trekking poles. These will provide stability, take the stress off your knees and greatly increase your trekking speed.
Munchies (all the walking might make you hungry during your trek).
Binoculars
Books or mp3 players (a smartphone is great).
Camera
Hydration bladder. You might also want to carry a thermos.
A pee bottle (or a pee funnel for women).

Note: The lists have been prepared by our guides based on experience and are meant as suggestion for an average trekker. Each trekker will have his/her own preferences and necessities and we recommend carrying everything that you think you might need. You will find several options for each equipment and we advise to select the best match for your particular trip. You can purchase almost everything on the lists in Kathmandu and we are happy to help you choose.

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DEPATURE DATES
private dates
customize your trip

TRIP STARTS	TRIP ENDS	STATUS	COST
April 18, 2026	April 27, 2026	Available	$820
April 25, 2026	May 04, 2026	Available	$820
May 2, 2026	May 11, 2026	Available	$820
May 9, 2026	May 18, 2026	Available	$820
May 16, 2026	May 25, 2026	Available	$820
May 23, 2026	June 01, 2026	Available	$820
May 30, 2026	June 08, 2026	Available	$820
June 6, 2026	June 15, 2026	Available	$820
June 13, 2026	June 22, 2026	Available	$820
June 20, 2026	June 29, 2026	Available	$820
June 27, 2026	July 06, 2026	Available	$820
September 4, 2026	September 13, 2026	Available	$820
September 11, 2026	September 20, 2026	Available	$820
September 18, 2026	September 27, 2026	Available	$820
September 25, 2026	October 04, 2026	Available	$820
October 2, 2026	October 11, 2026	Available	$820
October 9, 2026	October 18, 2026	Available	$820
October 16, 2026	October 25, 2026	Available	$820
October 23, 2026	November 01, 2026	Available	$820
October 30, 2026	November 08, 2026	Available	$820
November 6, 2026	November 15, 2026	Available	$820
November 13, 2026	November 22, 2026	Available	$820
November 20, 2026	November 29, 2026	Available	$820
November 27, 2026	December 06, 2026	Available	$820
December 4, 2026	December 13, 2026	Available	$820
December 11, 2026	December 20, 2026	Available	$820
December 18, 2026	December 27, 2026	Available	$820
December 25, 2026	January 03, 2027	Available	$820

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We give you the power to choose the departure date that suits your group best. A private trip is a perfect solution if you can’t find a published departure date that you and your companions agree on. You can set up a private departure for most of the trips we offer.

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