Panchase Hill
A hidden gem with 360-degree views from Dhaulagiri to Manaslu — home to Nepal's densest rhododendron forest with over 20 species.
Distance
15 km
Duration
6 hours
Elevation Gain
900m
Max Elevation
2,517m
Min Elevation
1,500m
Highest Point
Panchase Bhanjyang
Difficulty
Moderate
Best Season
March-April, October-November
Route Type
Point to Point
Panchase Hill is a hidden gem offering one of the widest Himalayan panoramas in the Pokhara region, spanning from Dhaulagiri (8,167m) to Manaslu (8,163m) with Machhapuchhre and the full Annapurna massif in between. The name 'Panchase' means 'five seats' — said to be the seats of five deities.
The trail passes through pristine rhododendron, oak, and laurel forests containing over 20 species of rhododendron that explode with color in spring. It lies at the junction of Kaski, Parbat, and Syangja districts and has cultural significance as a pilgrimage site with a Panchase Devi temple at the top.
The trailhead at Bhandare village is about 1.5 hours drive from Pokhara. This is an excellent alternative to more crowded viewpoints in the area.