Happy Feet (Panchase trek)

We begin with a 30 minute boat ride across Phewa Lake and then a 45 minute climb through the forest to the Peace pagoda (1080m). It is nice to stop and have a rest with excellent mountain views, views of Pokhara valley and the lake. We walk for one hour, gentle climbing, to Lukanswara and Pumdi village. Then we climb for 45 minutes to the traditional Gurung village of Bhumdi (1500m), which is our final destination. We stay with the local people in a traditional Gurung house and enjoy traditional food. Amazing views of Ganesh Himal, Himalchuli, Manaslu, Annapurna range and Fishtail Mountain from Bhumdi.

Today our walk takes us through the uninhabited forest with both climbing and gentle walking. We can see Rhododendron trees, Himalayan sandalwood and many species of birds. We can stop in a nice meadow enjoying packed lunch. Our destination is Panchase Bhanjang at 2030m, which is a settlement of only 5 Gurung households. We stay in a basic lodge, which is one of the households.

2 hours steep climbing gets us to Panchase top where we can enjoy the sunrise and sunset and view the Annapurna range, Hiunchuli, Dhaulagiri, Lamjung, Manaslu and Machhapucharre. Also we can see Phewa Lake of Pokhara. After lunch we can go for 3 hours hike around Panchase lake, a secret lake.

Downhill through forest we reach Bhadaure, a Gurung village. After 3 hours gentle walk we reach Naudanda, a Brahmin village. A 45 minutes drive takes us back to the relaxing Lakeside of Pokhara.