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Khumai Danda Trek From Pokhara

  • Duration 2 Night/3 Days
  • Difficulty Moderate
  • Region ANNAPURNA REGION
  • Activity Nepal Trekking
  • Max. Altitude 3700 m
  • Best Season Mar-Jun, Sep-Nov
  • Start/End Point Pokhara
  • Group Size 1-12 People

Khumai Danda Trek from Pokhara is one of the most underrated yet spectacular short treks in the Annapurna region. Often called the “Machhapuchhre Model Trek” due to its incredibly close and dramatic views of the iconic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Peak, 6,993 m), this 3-day adventure delivers panoramic Himalayan vistas of the entire Annapurna massif, Mardi Himal, Lamjung Himal, and more — all without the crowds, high costs, or long durations of classic routes like Poon Hill or Mardi Himal Base Camp.

Starting and ending right in Pokhara, this trek is perfect for:

  • First-time trekkers wanting an authentic Himalayan experience
  • Busy travelers with only 3–4 days available
  • Families, couples, or small groups seeking peaceful trails
  • Anyone craving sunrise/sunset magic over snow-capped giants from a quiet ridge

At Adventure Himalaya Nepal, we specialize in personalized, responsible, and value-packed short treks near Pokhara. Our Khumai Danda package is fully customizable, eco-friendly, and supports local Gurung and Magar communities through homestay-style teahouses.

Why Choose Khumai Danda Trek from Pokhara in 2026?

In recent years, Khumai Danda has gained popularity as a “hidden gem” alternative to more commercialized short treks. Unlike Australian Camp (easier but lower views), Poon Hill (crowded sunrise spot), or Mardi Himal (longer and steeper), Khumai offers:

  • Intimate, front-row views of Machhapuchhre’s south face — often described as the best close-up perspective anywhere
  • Rhododendron and oak forests bursting with spring colors (March–May) or autumn hues (September–November)
  • Minimal tourists — trails feel private and serene
  • Easy-to-moderate difficulty with no technical sections
  • Short duration: Just 3 days total, ideal as a standalone trip or Pokhara add-on
  • Community-based teahouses providing warm hospitality, fresh organic meals, and cultural immersion

Whether you’re chasing that perfect Instagram sunrise or simply want to disconnect and recharge amid the Himalayas, this trek delivers big rewards in minimal time.

Highlights

  • Unbeatable close-up views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Peak, 6,993 m)
  • Panoramic 360° sunrise/sunset vistas over the entire Annapurna massif
  • Peaceful, crowd-free trails
  • Easy-to-moderate trekking
  • Authentic cultural immersion
  • Short & convenient round-trip from Pokhara
  • Stunning seasonal magic
  • Ideal for beginners and first-time trekkers

    • Overview

    Hidden between the more popular trails of Nepal lies the Khumai Danda, a rewarding short journey that blends rich Gurung and Magar local culture, serene mountain wilderness, and expansive Himalayan panoramas — all starting and ending right in Pokhara.

    Unlike the crowded commercial routes like Poon Hill or Mardi Himal, this peaceful 3-day trek takes you into quiet valleys, rhododendron-filled forests, and uncrowded ridgelines seldom experienced by mass tourism.Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara to the trailhead at Ghachok or Hemja (about 1–1.5 hours by private jeep), then gently ascends through terraced farmlands, traditional villages, and pine-oak-rhododendron forests into the foothills of the central Himalayas.

    Along the way, you’ll encounter resilient mountain communities that preserve age-old traditions, warm hospitality in cozy teahouses, and authentic interactions with Gurung locals.

    The trek culminates at Khumai Danda (3,245 m), with an optional early-morning push to the spectacular Korchan Danda viewpoint (around 3,682–3,700 m) — one of the best vantage points for sunrise over the Annapurna massif.

    Here, the first light dramatically illuminates iconic peaks including the close-up south face of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Peak, 6,993 m), Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, Mardi Himal, Lamjung Himal, and more in a breathtaking 360° panorama.Whether you’re an aspiring trekker seeking your first Himalayan experience, a busy traveler with limited time, or a seasoned hiker craving a quieter, less-traveled path, the 3 Days Khumai Danda Trek from Pokhara (offered by Adventure Himalaya Nepal) is the ideal choice.

    It delivers genuine cultural immersion, gentle-to-moderate highland trails, unbeatable close-up mountain views without the crowds, and memorable moments at every turn all wrapped in a compact.

    Book your peaceful escape today and discover why this hidden gem is quickly becoming one of Pokhara’s best-kept secrets for authentic Himalayan magic.Ready to go?
    WhatsApp us at +977-9851409928 or visit adventurehimalayanepal.com for full itinerary, costs, and customization!

    Itinerary

  • Morning: Pickup from your Pokhara hotel (Lakeside area preferred) between 7:00–8:00 AM. Enjoy a scenic 1–1.5 hour private jeep drive (approx. 25 km) through lush valleys and Gurung villages to the trailhead at Ghachok (1,240–1,494 m) or nearby Saripakha.
    Trek Begins: Start with a gentle walk past terraced fields, small farms, and traditional stone houses. The path gradually ascends through mixed forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron. You'll pass local schools, prayer flags, and viewpoints offering first glimpses of the Annapurna range.
    Highlights: Interaction with Gurung villagers, birdwatching (over 200 species in the area), and peaceful forest trails.
    Lunch: Picnic-style or at a local teahouse en route.
    Arrival & Overnight: Reach Hile Kharka (2,160 m). Settle into a cozy family-run teahouse. Enjoy sunset views as the peaks turn pink.
  • Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch, Dinner
  • Trekking Time: 4–6 hours
  • Distance: ~10–12 km
  • Ascent: Approx. 800–1,200 m gain

    • Early Start: Breakfast at sunrise. The trail steepens today but remains steady and well-defined. Walk through dense rhododendron forests (especially magical in spring when flowers carpet the path).
    Ascent: Gain elevation steadily with switchbacks. As you climb higher, the forest opens to grassy ridges — and the views explode! Machhapuchhre dominates the skyline, appearing almost within reach, alongside Annapurna South (7,219 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Hiunchuli, Mardi Himal, and Lamjung Himal.
    Lunch: At a scenic spot or teahouse midway.
    Arrival: Reach Khumai Danda ridge by early-mid afternoon. Your teahouse sits right on the viewpoint, relax on the terrace with unlimited photo opportunities.
    Afternoon/Evening: Free time to explore nearby ridges, chat with locals, or simply soak in the 360° panorama. Watch the sunset paint the peaks in golden-orange hues.
    Overnight: Teahouse at Khumai Danda — basic but with unbeatable location. Hot meals, herbal tea, and stargazing if skies are clear.
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
  • Distance: ~6–8 km
  • Ascent: Approx. 600–1,000 m gain

    • Pre-Dawn Option: Wake up early (around 4:30–5:00 AM) for a short 1–1.5 hour uphill hike to Korchan Danda (3,682–3,700 m), the ultimate sunrise viewpoint. Few trekkers reach here , it's often just you, the guide, and the mountains awakening in alpenglow.
    Sunrise Magic: Witness the first light hit Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Dhaulagiri. One of Nepal's most photogenic moments!
    Descent: After breakfast, retrace steps downhill through forests and villages. The descent is faster and easier on the knees.
    Lunch: At a lower teahouse .
    Afternoon: Reach the roadhead (Saripakha).
    Private jeep transfer back to Pokhara (1–1.5 hours). Arrive by early-mid afternoon for hot shower, massage, or lakeside relaxation.
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
  • Trekking Time: 5–7 hours (including optional Korchan)
  • Distance: ~10–12 km descent

    • Price Includes

    • All ground transportation (private comfortable jeep Pokhara trailhead)
    • Professional licensed English-speaking trekking guide (government-registered)
    • Porter service (1 porter carries up to 20–25 kg for every 2 trekkers)
    • All meals during trek: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners (vegetarian/non-veg options, fresh/local ingredients)
    • Twin-sharing teahouse accommodation (2 nights)
    • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
    • First-aid kit
    • All government taxes & company service charges
    • Pre-trek briefing & post-trek drop-off

    Price Excludes

    • International airfare
    • Personal travel/medical/evacuation insurance
    • Personal expenses: Hot showers (~NPR 300–500), battery charging, Wi-Fi (limited), snacks/drinks
    • Tips for guide/porter
    • Any optional activities in Pokhara (paragliding, boating, etc.)

    Khumai Danda Altitude Chart

    View in:

    (Note: Temperatures are approximate — highland nights may be colder.)

    Essential Information

    Packing List Essentials for Khumai Danda

  • Good trekking boots (ankle support)
  • Daypack (30–40L) & rain cover
  • Warm layers: Fleece, down jacket (nights can drop to 0–5°C)
  • Waterproof jacket & pants
  • Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, headlamp
  • Water bottle & purification tablets
  • Trekking poles (helpful for descent)
  • Personal medications, blister kit
  • Camera & power bank

    • Best Time to Do the Khumai Danda Trek

  • Spring (March–May): Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons
  • Autumn (September–November): Best mountain visibility
  • Winter (December–February): Cold mornings, fewer trekkers
  • Monsoon (June–August): Green landscapes, but slippery trails

    • FAQs

    Yes , it's one of the easiest moderate treks with gradual ascents and no technical parts. Prior fitness helps, but many first-timers complete it comfortably.

    Poon Hill is more crowded with steps; Australian Camp is shorter/easier but lower altitude. Khumai wins for uncrowded trails and superior close-up Machhapuchhre views.

    Basic but improving teahouses offer beds, meals, and charging. Shared bathrooms; hot water extra. No luxury, but warm hospitality.

    Low — max 3,700 m reached slowly over 2 days. Drink water, ascend gradually, inform guide of symptoms.

    Yes , you can do. You can only take a guide with you.

    Dawn/dusk at Korchan for golden light; wide-angle lens for panoramas; drone rules apply in conservation area.

    Ready for your Khumai Danda adventure? This short trek packs massive Himalayan wow-factor into just 3 days. Contact us today!
    WhatsApp/Call: +977-9851409928
    Email: [email protected]
    Website: adventurehimalayanepal.com
    Adventure Himalaya Nepal, Local experts, responsible travel, unforgettable memories.