Nepal has become a top choice for trekking enthusiasts worldwide due to the abundance of options for long and short treks with stunning views of the Himalayas. Among Nepal’s many short trekking trails in Nepal, the Khumai Danda Trek is quickly gaining popularity. Despite being located in the heart of the well-trodden destination of Mt Macchapuchre in the Annapurna Region, it remains unspoilt and less crowded than other popular trails like Poonhill and Mardi Himal.

The Khumai Danda Trek is a hidden gem that offers breathtaking views of the mountain ranges and the surrounding greenery. The trail provides a unique experience to explore the local culture and lifestyle of the Gurung people living in the remote mountain villages in the Annapurna Region. The Trek is ideal for those seeking a peaceful and less crowded environment while still witnessing the beauty of Mt Macchapuchre. With its stunning natural beauty and the opportunity to immerse oneself in the local culture, the Khumai Danda Trek is a must-visit destination for any trekking enthusiast looking for an unforgettable experience.

Highlights of the Trek

▪ Enjoy the panoramic sights of Mt. Macchapuchre (6993m), Annapurna (8091m) and Mardi (5587m)

▪ Trek through the natural, unspoilt trekking trails

▪ Enjoy the sunrise and sunset view from Korchan (3700m)

▪ Experience the warm hospitality of locals and explore their unique

Khumai Danda location

Khumai Danda is a stunning trekking destination on Pokhara’s Northside. It lies at an altitude of 3245m at the base of the south face of Mt Macchapuchre, which is part of the Macchapuchre Model Trek. The Trek can be completed in 3-4 days or extended up to a week by adding the Mardi Himal trek. The views of the Himalayas and sunrise from Korchan (3700m) are breathtaking. At the same time, the trekking trail offers unspoiled scenery, verdant woodlands, and ethnic villages such as Saripakha, Hile Kharka, and Mirsha Village. It’s the perfect destination for those seeking solitude and a memorable time in nature.

Permits required for Khumai Danda Trek

The Khumai Danda is located inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, so you will need an Annapurna Conservation Area entry permit and a TIMS card, which are required for almost all treks in Nepal.

Best season for Khumai Danda Trek

The Khumai Danda trek is a great option for those looking for a short and easy trek in Nepal. Due to the low altitude and pleasant weather conditions, this Trek can be done at any time of the year.

3 Days Itinerary for Khumai Danda

• Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Hemja and Trek to Hile Kharka (2160m) via Ghachowk
  Your Trek will begin on the first day with a 30-minute drive from Pokhara to Hemja. Hemja is the starting point of the Trek, from where you will start walking through the woodlands, small villages and terraced fields, enjoying the sights of the surrounding hills. The Trek from Hemja to Hile Kharka takes around 6 hours and is relatively easy. On your way to Hile Kharka, you’ll come across Ghachowk, known for offering the best views of Mt Macchapuchre.

• Day 2: Trek from Hile to Khumai Danda (3245m)
  The Trek from Hile Kharka to Kumai Danda is like walking through a dense jungle as the trail passes mainly through the forest. Although a bit more challenging than the previous day’s walk, the peaceful path offers breathtaking panoramic views of Macchapuchre, Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna, making it all worth it. The trail gets narrower and is covered with grassy hills, but despite a few challenges, the stunning views of the Himalayas will reward and welcome you at their best. Once you pass the Samsur Deurali, you will finally reach Khumai Danda, which lies in the shadow of the massive Macchapuchre Himal.

• Day 3: Hike to Korchan Danda (3700m) and hike down to Ghachowk and drive to Pokhara
  One of the Trek’s significant highlights is Korchan Danda, which will undoubtedly surprise you with its astounding sights of the sunrise and the Himalayas. The hill is elevated at 3700m and offers majestic views of Mardi, Annapurna, and Macchapuchre. You can spend some quality time away from the hustle and bustle, right in the lap of the Himalayas, before heading back to Pokhara.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Khumai Danda Trek is a hidden gem in the heart of the well-trodden destination of Mt Macchapuchre in the Annapurna Region of Nepal. It offers a unique and unforgettable experience for those seeking stunning views of the Himalayas, unspoiled trekking trails, and a chance to immerse oneself in local culture and lifestyle. The Trek is ideal for those seeking solitude and a peaceful environment away from the crowds of other popular trails. With breathtaking panoramic sights of the mountains, verdant woodlands, and ethnic villages, the Khumai Danda Trek is a must-visit destination for any trekking enthusiast looking for an unforgettable experience in Nepal.