Panchase takes its name from five small lakes, more accurately ponds, on the upper slopes of the hill. A simple temple stands beside them, decorated with bells, tridents and prayer flags, and is one of the most important hill shrines in this part of the Middle Hills. Shepherds, farmers and pilgrims from the surrounding districts come to pray for rain, good harvests and the health of their animals. Prayer flags hang between the trees around the ponds.
On ordinary days the shrine is quiet, with perhaps a few local visitors and the sound of wind in the trees. On certain full-moon days and festivals, local fairs bring hundreds of pilgrims who climb from villages on all sides, bathe in or sprinkle themselves with pond water and make offerings. Festival dates follow the lunar calendar, so check current dates before you travel if you want to see one.
Treat the area with respect: walk clockwise around the shrine, do not wash or throw anything into the ponds, and ask before photographing people at prayer. The shrine is a few minutes below the summit viewpoint, so pilgrims and trekkers combine both on the sunrise climb from Panchase Bhanjyang. Pilgrims usually visit after sunrise, when the summit crowd has dispersed and the shrine is quiet again. Keep the area clean and carry all litter back down to the lodges at Bhanjyang, as there are no bins on the summit.
Good for
- Pilgrims
- Photographers
- Solo
- Groups
Questions travellers ask
Why is Panchase sacred?
The ponds near the summit, which give Panchase its name meaning five lakes, are considered holy, and a shrine beside them is worshipped by Hindu communities in Kaski, Parbat and Syangja. Pilgrims come to pray for rain, health and good harvests, and local fairs are held on certain full-moon days.
Can non-Hindus visit the Panchase shrine?
Yes. The shrine is open-air and visitors of all faiths are welcome to look and walk around respectfully. Remove shoes if asked, walk clockwise and avoid touching offerings or the ponds. Ask before photographing worshippers, especially during fairs. Donations are welcome.
When are the Panchase fairs?
Local fairs are held at the shrine on certain full-moon days and religious festivals, which follow the lunar calendar and move each year. They can be crowded and lively. Ask your guide or check current dates before you travel if you want to attend or to avoid the crowds.
