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Panchase Hill Trek is  one of the famous hill trek of Annapurna region. Panchase hill is the name of the five hills surrounding the districts of Syangja, Parbat and Kaski. Panchase Hills and its surroundings are home to approx 70,000 people. They mostly include villages like  Kalabang, Chitre, Bhadaure, Deurali, Talibarang, Arthare and Sidhane villages.

Many ethnicities like Gurungs, Magars, Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Pariyars, Nepalis and Newars have their home in Pokhara.

The Panchase Hill ranges from 800 to 2,500 meters above sea level. 

Why is Panchase Hill famous?

Panchase hill is famous for many reasons. Firstly, you can see the view of snowcapped mountains like Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Gangapurna, Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Fishtail etc.

Secondly, it has a large amount of flora and fauna. Panchase hill is also the origin of famous rivers and lakes in Pokhara namely: Phewa Lake, River Harpan, River Aadhi, River Rapti, and River Jarey. 

It is also famous for its peace and yoga treks and also for its suitability as an extension to any of our tours of Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan.

Panchase Hill Trek overview

Max Altitude: 2500 meters

Difficulty: Moderate

Transport: Private Vehicle & Local bus

Accommodation: Private Accommodation Tea Houses, Homestay

Meals: All Included

Famous Flora and Fauna found in Panchase Hill

The Panchase Hill is the home of more than 250 bird species, 600 plant species, 118 orchid species and more than a dozen species of herbs.

The Panchase Hill is the home of famous medicinal herbs like Satuwa, Chattre Unyu, Titte, Kurilo, Naagbeli, Paanch Aaule, Loth Salla etc.

Famous flowers like Rhododendron, Sunkhari, and Leksallo are also produced by Panchase Hill.

Animals like leopards, black bears etc are found in Panchase.

It also has plants like Loktha, Khashru, Champ, and Phalat which are the main ingredient for manufacturing Nepali Paper.

It is also home to a large number of butterflies, insects and other animals. 

Special Festival/Temples/Religion related to Panchase Hill

The five hills in Panchase hold a huge religious significance. The five hills are the home of The Temple of Shidda Baba, Homekunda, Panchasse Lake, and Balaji Phachyan Temple. It also includes Buddha Stupa which is more than 200 years old. Locals believed that many religious saints and sages have meditated in this place many centuries ago.

Panchase Hill Trek also Let you celebrates major festivals like Balachuturdashi Festival and Buddha Purnima. There are also many other religious spots like Shrawan Kumar’s Samadhi and more.

Accommodation and food in Panchase Hill

In Panchase Hill Trek, you can find many homestay services in Kalabang and Pumdi villages. Other lodges are also opening in many places of Panchase Hill.

The restaurants in Panchase serve rice, potatoes, noodles, eggs, momo, chapati etc and tea, and coffee for table drinks.

The local homestays mostly serve Dal/Bhat (a Nepalese set meal that comes with boiled rice, lentil soup, fried/cooked vegetables and pickle). You can also find soft drinks, beer, distillery drinks and local wines.

Best Time to Panchase Hill Trek

The best time to trek Panchase Hill Trek is all year round. However, it is not suitable to trek in Panchase Hill during monsoon because it is one of the largest rain-receiving places in Nepal. 

You can also come to Panchase in the winter to play in the snow.

Khayer Lake is a beautiful trekking destination in Myagdi. It is a trekking destination that was only released to the public a few years ago. This lake is between two famous trekking destinations, Annapurna Base Camp and the Jomsom Trekking Trail. A less touristy trek, the trail around Khayer lake has yet to be highly disturbed by concrete buildings, leaving a natural beauty undisturbed by artificial disturbance.

Khayer lake, at an elevation of 4,700m, is also higher than the Annapurna Base Camp

Highlights of Khayer lake

• Views of Annapurna Range
• Rhododendron Forest
• Views of Mt Himchuli, Mt Fishtail
• Yak Pastures
• Jungle hikes
• Views of Dhaulagiri Range and Kali Gandaki Valley
• Swanta Village with unique local cultures

Seasons suitable for Khayer Lake Trek

If we are to talk about the best seasons for Khayer Lake Trek, most people would recommend you trek in Nepal after the fall or after the winter. They are also Nepal’s most packed and popular seasons.

But there is also another trekking season that has risen in recent years. Just after the fall of winter to the beginning of spring, there is a rise in pleasant and warm temperatures. New flowers bloom on trees and the ground during this season, making them suitable for unique treks and expeditions.

Along with these seasons, you can choose to trek in autumn and spring. Due to Autumn and Spring being some of the best seasons for treks, if you do not like the crowd, Khayer lake is one of the suitable destinations for you.

Khayer Lake’s best attractions

Khayer  is among the best attractions for trekking in the Annapurna Region. Nestled in the heights above the Annapurna Base Camp, it is also famous in Hinduism due to its location near Khayer Barahi Temple. The Khayer Barahi Temple has more than 10,000 devotees every year. This temple also has high visits during the Janai Purnima Festival.

While less well-known, lake has enormous potential for trekkers. Khayer lake can be taken along with trekking to Annapurna Base Camp and other places in the Annapurna region. This trail in Annapurna has a high chance of being connected to other treks in the Annapurna region like Khopra Danda Trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek , Ghandruk Trek, Jomsom Muktinath Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, etc.

This Khayerlake trail has a beautiful view of Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Nilgiri (7,061m), Bhara Shikhar (7,647m), Annapurna I (8091m), Machhapuchhre (6,997m), and the Annapurna Range. It also includes jungle hikes, different flora and fauna views, and a beautiful rhododendron forest.

You can also enjoy the local culture and traditions of Gurung, Magar, and Swanta villages.

Hence, once you visit Khayer lake this place will definitely, captivate you, visit this place once you come to Nepal.

Before going to Annapurna Base Camp trek Difficulty, The Annapurna Trek in the Annapurna region is from the south as you make your way up into the world famous Annapurna Sanctuary.It is the world’s 10th highest mountain which lies in Gandaki Zone in Nepal.This is one of the great treks in the world. Unique and the diverse landscapes, a culture of the local ethnic group, views of the world iconic mountain are the main attractions of this trek. The Annapurna base camp trek offers you the beautiful views of the stunning mountain vista from the different attractions and the beautiful viewpoint, which takes you through the terraced field surrounding the village and valley, the charming village of Gurung and Magar, breathtaking views of the Himalayan flora and fauna. This aspect will rejoice you during the adventure walk to the Annapurna Base Camp.

So how difficult is it to trek to the Annapurna Base Camp?

Annapurna Base Camp is situated at an altitude of 4130 meters and the route of this trek is the one of the most popular and the beautiful trekking trails in Nepal after Everest Base camp. It is also very popular for the solo and the group trekkers experienced trekkers as well.

Annapurna Base Camp trek is not considered to be a difficult trek because this trek is very adventurous and the key factors of the trek are to walk slow and steady. So this trek is considered to be a moderate trek. Like Everest Base Camp Trek it is also demanding and the beautiful trek but with a bit of patience, this trek is very enjoyable and achievable.

It is the most frequently asked question among the traveler and the visitors.So, here are some of the list why visitors/trekkers feel difficult to trek to Annapurna base camp.

1. Altitude Sickness
2. Weather and Temperature
3. Lack of Training
4. Budget
5. Guide and Porter Difficulty
6. Clothing

Altitude Sickness

It is the major problem and the difficult situation in the mountainous region. The atmospheric pressure and the oxygen is lower than the sea level in the higher altitude location.With the thinner level of oxygen and the high altitude, it will take time to adjust to the surrounding environment at such high altitude. During the altitude sickness, you may get symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, headache, loss of appetite, insomnia and other. High altitude can be moderate for some trekkers but it can be serious for others.  you find some symptoms of altitude sickness while making the adventure hike, you should immediately return back to a lower altitude region. Do not ignore these types of symptoms which may result in serious problems or the death of the traveler while trekking to the high altitude.

It is not recommended to drink alcohol at such a high altitude. Though there is some medicine available to prevent altitude sickness, you are suggested to take rest and take precautions rather than medicine.

Weather and Temperature

Weather and Temperature is a major factor that can create a major difficulty in Annapurna base camp trekking. Change in the temperature drastically is based on the weather , altitude , climate and seasons. The average temperature at the Annapurna Base Camp region is about 15 to 20-degree centigrade on a sunny day during the autumn and spring whereas, in the summer, the temperature ranges from 20-25 degrees centigrade.The temperature is normal and moderate during the day time or under the sun time.  In winter, it is the most dangerous and the challenging season in the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. In this season, there is the possibility of heavy snowfall and the temperature can be below 0 and can be decreased to minus 17 degrees centigrade at the night time. Autumn is the picking season to trek Annapurna Base Camp because of the good and calm weather condition in the mountain at this time of the year. After Autumn season, the spring season is also best season to trek in Annapurna region because the days are very beautiful and charming, we can experience the green and beautiful Himalayan flora and fauna, walk through the green terraced field, with the gorgeous and the heart touching views of the snow painted mountain peaks.The best part of the trekking in Annapurna Base Camp is you can trek here in monsoon too as there will be less chance of rainfall in this region. This whole region is rain shaded, so the monsoon does not affect too much while trekking in the Annapurna region.So,before trekking you should take all the essential and seasonal clothes for the drastic change in weather and temperature.

Lack of Training

The most reliable, legendary and classical trek is the Annapurna base camp as the route of this trek is not so difficult. However for the new mountain hikers it will be a challenging trek. Therefore, best preparation is needed for the adventure hiking if you are trekking the mountain region for the first time. First of all the trekkers should take 6 weeks of training before making a trip to the Annapurna region to make the body healthy as well as physically and mentally fit and fine.At the higher altitude walk or the walk-in uphill, even a short period of the walk will make you feel tired. Descending towards the lower region is comparatively easier than ascending uphill to the higher altitude as in the high altitude there is very less amount of the oxygen up in the mountains.If you are perfectly trained, you can trek any kind of trekking trial easily. To maintain your fitness, you have to perform difficult works, even simple exercises such as stretching, jogging, swimming, skipping can be helpful for you.

Budget

The country of Nepal is one of the most inexpensive trekking destinations in the world. However, the price of the goods and things you use will get more expensive as you reach at a higher altitude than at the lower altitude. The cost of the food and accommodation get tripled or more than it is in normal rate this due to the lack of good transportation and communication facilities in the mountain region.

Guide and porter difficult

Most trekkers do trekking with a guide but not a porter and there are some trekkers who trek to Annapurna base camp on their own without any guide or porter. Annapurna base camp is absolutely doable without a guide or a porter. However hiring a guid means you are always on a safer side.The trek doesn’t involve any technical sections but there are some steep and rugged sections. Also, walking up and down the stone stairs is not so easy. So, hiring a porter is also useful.But if you think that you have good physical conditions, you can carry your backpack on your own.

Clothing

The temperature in the mountainous region changes day to day due to higher altitude location from sea level. In the mornings are colders for most of the seasons while the day time is a bit warmer. So, you need to wear clothes according to the weather conditions.

Here are some of the list of clothings that should be carried while trekking to Annapurna base camp:

For Spring and Autumn

• Lightweight hiking shirt
• Full or half Pants/ Trousers
• Hiking underwear
• Thermals
• A pair of good quality trekking shoes
• Wind-cheater Jacket and trousers
• Lightweight down jacket
• A pair of hiking sandals
• Gloves
• Lightweight hiking socks
• Shorts
• Light underwears
• Comfortable Sports Bras (for girls)
• A Sun Hat
• Sunglasses

For Winter

• Warm Shirt and Trousers
• A woolen cap
• A woolen scarf
• Layered clothing
• Lightweight woolen jumper/ sweater
• Down jacket or down vest
• Fleece or wool trousers
• Heavyweight gloves or mittens
• Thermals
• Thermal underwears

For Summer/Monsoon

• Full sleeve trekking Shirt
• Windproof/ waterproof trekking trousers (long)
• Windstopper Jacket (waterproof)
• Anti-leech Socks
• Down Jacket for cold nights
• A Rain jacket
• A Rain Pant
• Waterproof trekking boots

Nepal is a country with the beauty of abundant nature Nepal and biodiversity. The huge geographical and topographical diversity in Nepal results in a diversity of trekking routes in Nepal. The diversity of the trekking trail in Nepal cannot be found in any other part of the world. Further, these trekking trails are embedded with magnificent Himalayan ambiance aspiring varieties of cultural wealth. However these all the trekking trails have a different Difficilty Level of Trek In Nepal. When it comes the question about the difficulty level of trek in Nepal, there are different factors.

The difficulty level of trek is measured on the basis of altitude, geographical structure and time duration of the trekking. Prior to deciding the trekking destination you should consider and plan which trek is perfect for you. By analyzing all the mentioned basis of trek difficulty you can choose the suitable trekking destination based upon your fitness level and vacation.

The difficulty level of trek in Nepal are categorized into four grades
The difficulty level of Nepal is divided into easy, moderate, strenuous and challenging which are described below.

Easy Trekking

An easy trek is perfect for those who do not have any experience of trekking. This grade of trekking is suitable for beginner trekkers. Easy trekking is favorable for people of all age groups. Even a family with children and senior parents can join this trek. Normally, it takes only a few days to complete the easy trek and this trek belongs to the altitude below 4000 meters. There will be a rare chance of altitude sickness. People with normal fitness level can choose the trek of this grade.

Some of the easy trekking routes in Nepal are :

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Everest View Trek
Helambu Valley Trek
Dhampus Sarangkot Trek
Chisapani Nagarkot Trek
Chepang Heritage Trail Trek
Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Panchase trek and so on.

Moderate Trekking

Moderate trekking could be a bit challenging and tough for the beginner trekkers. Further, these treks are challenging for elderly people and children as the difficulty level of trek is high compared to easy trek. However, without trekking experience also you can join this trek if you are physically fit. If you are habituated of doing physical exercise regularly and your fitness level is good then you can do this trek. In this type of trekking, you have to walk for a long time and also you have to pass through higher passes but you can enjoy the spectacular views of mighty Himalayas.

Some of the moderate trekking destinations of Nepal are:

Langtang Valley Trek
Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Strenuous Trekking:

Strenuous trekking gives you the real adventure of the Himalayas. Solid Physical fitness level, high stamina, and sound health are required to complete this type of trekking. This type of trekking takes a long duration to complete as you have to give some extra days for acclimatization. You have to walk for a long time and also you have to pass through strenuous trials. Further weather change makes strenuous trek riskier. When it comes to accommodation only tea houses with basic facilities are available there. Before doing this type of trekking it is better to have some knowledge of trekking equipment and techniques.

Some strenuous trekking in Nepal are

Annapurna Circuit Trek
Everest Base camp trek
Langtang Ganjala pass trek
Upper Mustang trek

Challenging trekking (Alpine trekking)

It is the last grade of the difficulty level of trek in Nepal. Challenging trekking is the tough and adventurous treks in which you have to pass through high passes, snow-filled lands. In addition, challenging Treks are the high altitude treks so high level of stamina and trekking experience is required to complete such treks. The accommodation available is camping and a few teahouses with basic facilities. The trekking duration for the trips is more than 20 days.

Some Challenging Trekking in Nepal are

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
Upper Dolpo Trek
Everest High Passes Trek
Manaslu Circuit Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the popular trekking destinations in the Annapurna Region of Nepal. It is popular among all the adventure seekers. Annapurna Base Camp Trek can be done throughout the year. However, spring and autumn are the best time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Autumn and Spring are the peak trekking season in Nepal. During these seasons, the sky is clear and the temperature is moderate and pleasant due to which you can have spectacular views.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is the perfect combination of cultural and natural sightseeing. The stunning mountain ranges, unique Gurung culture, and managed trails along with diverse flora and fauna make this treks even more wonderful.

People of all age groups can join this trek. With a slow pace and enough acclimatization, one can successfully complete Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Yet, prior to doing any kind of trekking you have to be aware of the weather condition where you are planning to go. You should keep the information regarding the weather condition. Before embarking your journey to the Annapurna Base Camp it is necessary to know about the Annapurna Base Camp weather.

Here I’m going to inform you some information regarding the Annapurna Base Camp trek  at different seasons:

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Spring Season:

Spring season in Nepal is from March to May. With the warmer weather and longer days, this is the second-best trekking season for Annapurna Base Camp. You can enjoy the clear weather with a panoramic view of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.It is the time when the trekking trails bloom in rhododendron, Magnolia and many other alpine flowers. Blooming rhododendron forest covers the hillside of Annapurna which makes your trial immensely gratifying. You will feel overwhelmed and relaxed by seeing such enthralling beauty of nature.

March and April is the perfect time for crystal clear views. During this time the weather is sunny and warm with outstanding views. The average daytime temperature is around 10- degrees Celsius while the night is usually at freezing. At over 4000 m, it is usually freezing cold in the morning and evening. In May, the weather is usually warmer and there are chances of rainfall. At this time the average temperature is 15-8 degrees at day and 7-8 degrees at night.

Reasons to visit

• Moderate temperature makes trekking a pleasant experience
• Clear visibility which offers splendid views of Himalayan mountains

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Summer Season:

Summer Season in Nepal is from June to August. Summer is known as the monsoon in Nepal. The temperature is quite high during the day while in the evening the temperature is quite moderate. During the summer days along with the sunny weather the rain persists too due to which the atmosphere is wet, humid and hazy. It can rain almost every day with occasional thunderstorms but after the rain, the countryside glows with lush vegetation. Further, the roads are still muddy and often leech-infested.

The average daily temperature of Annapurna Base Camp in summer is 18-19degrees celsius during the day, while at night it is around 10-12 degrees celsius. It is the perfect time to trek ABC for many botanists and researchers. Wide varieties of flora and fauna can be marked during this season. Additionally, the rain Keeps away the dust and pollutants. The less crowded trail in monsoon lets you experience the wilderness trekking in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Those who love to travel in less crowded routes for them, summer is the best time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

Reasons to visit

• Less crowded trails so you can enjoy trekking in solitude
• Dust-free view of hills and mountains as the rain keeps dust and pollutants away
• Lush green forests and surrounding hills look radiant and vibrant.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Autumn Season:

The autumn season in Nepal is from September to November. Autumn is the best time for trekking in Nepal. Likewise, autumn is the best time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek as well. The weather is stable with mild to warm days and cold nights. The average daily temperature for ABC in this season at day is 14-15 degrees and 5-8 degrees (or even freezing temperature) at night. This is the peak season for trekking in Annapurna Base Camp so it is better to book lodges and flight in advance.

Astonishing view of Annapurna I, II, III, IV, and Dhaulagiri range are the major attractions of Annapurna Base Camp in autumn. Further, the autumn season is the best time to view stars. Dazzling nights is also the major attraction of ABC trek at this time of the year. Besides natural beauty, you can also get the opportunity to immerse yourself in the major festivals of Nepal in the autumn season.

Reasons to visit

• Weather is stable and pleasant with a clear sky and the marvelous view
• At this time the trek route is full of trekkers with whom you can have a great time
• The major festivals add happiness and joy

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Winter Season:

The winter season in Nepal is from December to February. Trekking to the Annapurna Base Camp in the winter season is really an adventurous activity. Trekking during this time of the year is definitely challenging. Annapurna Base Camp Trek in the winter season will be the best time for adventure seekers who adore some thrill during their trek. Though it is chilly and cold you will have a different adventure which makes your trip awesome and memorable.

In the winter season, the higher you go the colder you feel. Normally the daytime temperature can range around 5-12 degrees celsius while at evening the temperature can drop below zero degrees celsius. The climate in winter is exceptionally cold with frequent snowfall. The fantastic views of the snow-covered peaks are what the winter trek in Annapurna offers.

During winter mornings are foggy whereas the afternoons are clear which offers the spectacular mountain vistas. However, in the higher altitude, the passes remain blocked due to the snow.

If you can bear the cold then winter is the best time to trek Annapurna Base Camp because there will be few visitors during this time of the year. Winter season is great for those who enjoy solitude with nature.

However, trekking to Annapurna Base Camp in winter requires more planning due to the colder climates.

Reasons to visit

• Less crowd so the trekking routes are quiet and peaceful
• The sky is clear with perfect views for stunning views
• Celebrate New Year or Christmas in the mountains with welcoming local people

Tips For Annapurna Base Camp Trek

• You should collect proper information regarding the climate and temperature before trekking.
• You should collect information on Altitude sickness along with its symptoms and preventive measures.
• Before commencing your trekking you should consult your doctor and take some necessary medicines
• Take enough rest during the trek so that you can fully enjoy the grandeur of nature.
• Plan extra days on the trip.
• You have to be mentally prepared to face everything that comes in your trek journey
• Always take a licensed guide and porter with you, especially if you are trekking for the first time.

Conclusion

Annapurna Base Camp Trek can be done at any time of the year. However, the best time to trek Annapurna Circuit depends on the preference of the trekker also. For adventure seekers who love thrill winter and summer is perfect form them. Further, this season is best for the one who loves to trek in less crowded trails.

Hence this is all about the best time to trek Annapurna Base Camp

Are you planning to trek Annapurna Base Camp? If yes then contact us without hesitation. We  Ambition Himalaya Treks and Expedition.Pvt.Ltd will provide you an adventure-filled trip along with proper safety. After all your safety is our priority.

For more information regarding this trek or any other trek in Nepal, you can contact us.

Our official contact information:

Ambition Himalaya Treks and Expeditions Pvt Ltd

Thamel, Kathmandu ( Nepal)

+977-1-4418413

+977-9851148898 (Shishir)