The Presidents’ Trek

This area is off the beaten track and offers magnificent panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges, and of Manaslu and Himalchuli. We recommend it from mid October all the way through the season until May. The Pokhara Valley itself gets quite hot in the late spring but temperatures on much of this route should remain pleasant and the bird life and spring flowers in bloom, including Rhododendron and White Michelia will add to the interest.
Normally a four or five day trek can be readily extended but the following is recommended as a standard five-day itinerary along the rolling foothills with panoramic view.

DEATAILED ITINERARY

Day 01:

Fly/drive to Pokhara. Start trek around mid-day with 20-minute drive south from Pokhara along the Tansen road to the start point at Thado Khola (stream). The route climbs away up the west bank before traversing left through the Chettri/Bahun village of Kalibang. On up through mixed farming country to Bhumdi (5000'/1525m). The ridge line offers fine views north to Machapuchare and Annapurna and east to the Manaslu Himal. Overnight at Bhumdi. (5249'/ 1600m) Time: about 2 ½ hours.

Day 02:

The panoramic views from this ridge are in many ways better than those obtained from the areas nearer the mountains offering an amazingly wide vista. The trail leads on up the ridge then leaving the scattered dwellings behind climbs through mixed vegetation before entering thick deciduous forest full of bird life, trees, orchids, and in spring time abundant flowers including rhododendrons and white michelia. The route lies through shady north facing slopes and is moist and dark leading to prolific plant growth. The trail traverses on west towards Panchase Lekh (8218'/2505m) before climbing up to the ridgeline where there is a Chautara (resting place). Shortly after this open ground is reached on the south facing slopes and fine lunch spot is ready, built in the form of a "Roman Fort" on deserted farming terraces. Half an hour walk leads to a distinctive 'bhanjyang' (ridge crossing point). Climb away west to the "Presidents' Camp" set high on hills immediately below Panchase Lekh. Time 6 - 7 hours.

Day 03:

An early morning climb of Panchase Lekh is well worthwhile. There is a shrine near the summit and a small lake on the west side of the hill. Stunning views can be seen of not only the Himalayas but also across the broad sweep of the foothills in all directions. After a late breakfast the route traverses to Panchase Deorali where there are scattered dwellings before descending through farming country towards the lake. Overnight at Bhadaure – 1700m. Time: about 4 - 5 hours from the Presidents' Campsite. 7 - 8 hours including Panchase Lekh climb.

Day 04:

Continue the trek via Naudada, Kare and "Austrian" camp to Dhampus – (5577'/ 1700m) – Overnight here.

Day 05:

After a relaxed morning we begin trekking mostly downhill, through the forest to Phedi, about 1 and half hours. Our vehicle will meet and drive us back to Pokhara (about 40 minutes). Overnight in Pokhara or take a flight or drive back to Kathmandu.