Overview:

Pokhara is one of Nepal’s most scenic cities, with stunning mountains and lakes surrounding it. Many people travel to Pokhara for trekking, and popular destinations such as Annapurna Base Camp and Mardi Himal treks are most people’s first choice. However, less popular treks like Khumai Danda are slowly gaining popularity. With less crowded trails, amazing landscapes, and cultural immersion, the Khumai Danda trek is an underrated gem near Pokhara.

With stunning views of Mount Annapurna and Mount Fishtail, the Khumai Danda trek is not too strenuous. Starting from Pokhara, the trail ascends slightly towards the Annapurna region. Along the way, you’ll come across small villages and settlements inhabited by the Gurung and Tamang people. It is one of the best viewpoints in the Annapurna region. In this article, let’s delve into the Khumai Danda trek, which is perfect for those who are short on time.

Khumai Danda Trek’s Facts:

  • Elevation: 3245 meters
  • Trek’s Duration: 4 days
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Accommodation: Tea House

Highlights Of The Khumai Danda Trek

  1. Short and Accessible: This trek is one of the shortest, beginning from Pokhara. If you want to shorten the itinerary, it can be completed in less than three days. This trek can be ideal for people who are short on time yet want to enjoy amazing views and beautiful trails. People who want to visit the Annapurna region can visit this amazing viewpoint near Pokhara. The trek is not too difficult.
  2. Up-close Mountain Views: This trek passes through the Annapurna region, blessing trekkers with stunning views of the snow-capped mountains of the Annapurna Massif. This trek is one of the most picturesque as it provides trekkers with fantastic photo opportunities from Khorchan.
  3. Explore ethnic communities: During this trek, you can witness traditional ethnic communities like the Gurungs and Tamangs. Along the trail, you can experience local cultures and the warm hospitality of the locals, making this trek full of cultural immersion.
  4. Seclusion: This is one of the most underrated treks in the Annapurna region. There are usually fewer people on the trail, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy peaceful natural surroundings.
  5. Diversified Landscape: From dense forests to dry barren meadows, this trek represents the Annapurna region well. The trek to Khumai Danda is visually rich and a diverse journey. You can witness the changing landscape as you ascend.
Khumai Danda
Khumai Danda Trek (Source: Facebook)

 

Itinerary

  • Day 1– Pokhara-Hemja and trek to Hile Kharka: Start early in the morning and drive to Hemja from Pokhara. As you ascend, you will cross the Mardi Khola River. On the way to Hile Kharka, you’ll pass the village settlements of Lhachok, Ghachowk, and Tubu. You can spend the night in Hile Kharka.
  • Day 2– Trek from Hile Kharka to Khumai Danda: On the second day, you’ll walk mostly through the rhododendron forests. You’ll be walking past Chichimle, Deurali, and Lobruchu, enjoying the views of the Bhurjung Khola and Macchapuchre Himal. The path narrows as you ascend, but the path opens up as you approach Khumai Danda. You can explore the beautiful surroundings and spend the night at a tea house.
  • Day 3– Small hike to Korchan Danda: On the third day, you’ll hike up to Korchan Danda, which is one of the best places to witness amazing mountain views. You can also witness breathtaking sunrise views from this place. After spending some time at the top, you can descend back to Ghachowk. You can spend the night in Ghachowk.
  • Day 4– Drive Back To Pokhara: On the last day, you can take ample time to return back to Pokhara. From Hemja, you can take a bus, jeep, or a car to Pokhara. Hemja is one of the most beautiful places to ride, with amazing roads and countryside views. Once you reach Pokhara, your trek is over.

Best Time To Trek & Some Useful Info

Spring and Autumn are the most favorable times to trek in this region. The weather opens up nicely around this time, and trekkers can enjoy amazing mountain views. During winter, the trail gets covered in snow, making navigating difficult and the trek much more challenging. Avoid the monsoon as well, as rain makes the trek terrible. The skies are also gloomy throughout the monsoon, blocking the stunning mountain views.

Acquire the ACAP and TIMS cards from Pokhara, as they are required to trek in this region.

Also Read: Fast-Track To Annapurna Base Camp: A Shorter Itinerary