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The Khumai Danda Trek is a beautiful and less-crowded short trek near Pokhara, offering an authentic Himalayan experience within just a few days. This hidden gem in the Machhapuchhre Model Trek region takes you through peaceful forests, traditional villages, and scenic ridgelines with stunning mountain views.
The highlight of the trek is the sunrise from Korchan Danda (3,600 m), where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of sacred Mount Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and surrounding peaks. Along the way, you will experience warm local hospitality, simple lodges, and a true off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Perfect for those looking for a short, quiet, and rewarding trek, Khumai Danda combines nature, culture, and incredible Himalayan scenery in a compact itinerary.
| Day | Program | Max Altitude | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel | 1,335 m | - |
| Day 2 | Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley (UNESCO Sites) | 1,335 m | 4–5 hrs |
| Day 3 | Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (optional flight) | 822 m | 6–7 hrs drive / 25 min flight |
| Day 4 | Drive to Sari Pakha and trek to Chichimle | 2,300 m | 5–6 hrs |
| Day 5 | Trek to Khumai Danda and optional hike to Korchan Danda | 3,600 m | 5–6 hrs |
| Day 6 | Sunrise at Korchan Danda and trek to Prundhu | 3,600 m | 6–7 hrs |
| Day 7 | Trek to Saiti Ghatta and drive to Pokhara | 2,000 m | 4–5 hrs trek + drive |
| Day 8 | Leisure day and sightseeing in Pokhara | 822 m | - |
| Day 9 | Fly to Kathmandu and visit Boudhanath Stupa | 1,335 m | 25 min flight + sightseeing |
| Day 10 | Transfer to international airport for departure | 1,335 m | - |
The Khumai Danda Trek is considered an easy to moderate trekking experience, making it an excellent choice for beginners as well as travelers with limited time who wish to explore the beauty of the Annapurna region.
This short and less-crowded trek near Pokhara offers a rewarding Himalayan experience without the physical demands of higher-altitude treks like Annapurna Base Camp or Everest Base Camp.
Walking Duration and Trail Conditions
The trekking portion typically takes around 4 days, with daily walking hours of approximately 5 to 6 hours. The trail passes through peaceful forests, ridgelines, and traditional villages, with gradual ascents and descents that are manageable for anyone with a basic level of fitness.
Altitude and Acclimatization
The highest point of the trek is Korchan Danda (3,600 m). At this elevation, the risk of altitude sickness is relatively low compared to more demanding Himalayan treks. However, it is always recommended to walk at a comfortable pace, stay hydrated, and listen to your body.
Overall Trekking Experience
While the Khumai Danda Trek is not technically difficult, it still offers stunning mountain scenery, including close-up views of Mount Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range. The peaceful environment, combined with moderate walking days, makes it ideal for beginners, families, and nature lovers seeking an authentic yet comfortable trekking experience.
Teahouses & Lodges
Accommodation along the Khumai Danda Trek is simple and authentic, reflecting the remote and less-developed nature of this off-the-beaten-path trail. Unlike popular routes such as the Annapurna Base Camp or Mardi Himal treks, facilities here are more basic but offer a genuine local experience.
You will stay in small, family-run teahouses or community lodges that provide:
While the comfort level is modest, the hospitality is warm and personal, making your stay a memorable part of the journey.
Meals on the Khumai Danda Trek are freshly prepared, simple, and nourishing—designed to provide the energy needed for daily hiking. Most ingredients are locally sourced and organic, offering a healthy and authentic taste of Nepal.
Common meals include:
Food choices may be more limited compared to well-established trekking routes, but the quality is fresh, and meals are prepared with care.
Welcome to Nepal! A Himalayan Dream Team representative will warmly welcome you with a traditional Nepali flower garland upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer you to your hotel.
After some rest, you may take a gentle walk around Kathmandu to get your first impression of the city.
In the evening, we invite you to a special welcome dinner at one of the best local restaurants, where you can enjoy a carefully selected menu in a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere.
Following your breakfast at the hotel, your guide will take you on a full day exploration of the profound cultural and spiritual heritage of Kathmandu, taking you to multiple UNESCO world heritage sites.
Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): You will start the day at this lofty Buddhist stupa resting on a hill with its eye catching views of the entire Kathmandu Valley. This site is one of the oldest by gaining importance as a relious center in Nepal where it is worshiped by Buddhists and Hindus.
Pashupatinath Temple: You will then proceed to Nepal’s most revered Hindu temple complex located on the banks of Bagmati River. Here, you will observe traditional cremation services and you will see sadhus (Hindu religious hermits) practicing their spirituality.
Kathmandu Durbar Square: You can take a walk at the serene old royal palace region of historic Kathmandu after lunch. This square is a living exposition of older temples and courtyards along with houses sculptured and wooden buildings in newari style architecture.
Local Markets Visit: To end the day, you can roam around kathmandu spice and vegetable markets which will allow you to experience the daily life of Kathmandan locals and provide opportunities for street photography.
Today, travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara by comfortable tourist bus (approximately 6–7 hours). Enjoy scenic views of terraced fields, rivers, rolling hills, and charming villages along the way.
Upon arrival in Pokhara, check in to your hotel and relax. In the evening, you may enjoy a peaceful walk along Phewa Lake, with beautiful reflections of the Himalayas, including Mount Machhapuchhre on clear days.
?????? Optional: Flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara (25 minutes)
If you prefer a quicker and more comfortable option, you can take a short domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara. This scenic flight offers spectacular aerial views of the Himalayan range and is often considered one of the most picturesque parts of the journey.
After breakfast, drive for about 1 hour from Pokhara to Sari Pakha, the starting point of your trek. Begin trekking through forested trails and small settlements to reach Hile Kharka in about 2 hours, where you will stop for lunch.
After lunch, continue trekking uphill for another 2 hours to Chichimle (2,300 m). Enjoy peaceful surroundings and your first closer views of the Himalayan foothills.
Today’s trek takes you deeper into the mountains. After breakfast, hike for approximately 4 hours through dense forests and ridgelines to reach Khumai Danda (3,200 m). Enjoy lunch with breathtaking close-up views of Mount Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range. If your physical condition allows, continue with an optional hike of about 2 hours to Korchan Danda (3,600 m), a spectacular viewpoint offering panoramic Himalayan scenery, especially during sunset. Return to Khumai for overnight stay.
Wake up early around 5:00 AM for a short hike to Korchan Danda to witness a magical sunrise over the Himalayas. Enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree panorama, with peaks glowing in golden light, including Mount Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range.
Return to Khumai for breakfast, then begin your descent via Meshroom, following forest trails and scenic landscapes. Stop for lunch at Metabrung before continuing downhill to Prundhu (2,000 m).
This is a longer but rewarding day with mostly downhill walking through peaceful nature and local villages.
After breakfast, enjoy a short 2-hour trek to Saiti Ghatta. From here, drive approximately 2 hours back to Pokhara.
Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax by the lakeside and celebrate the completion of your trek.
Today is a relaxing day in Pokhara, known as the Lake City, with beautiful views of Mount Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range.After breakfast, enjoy a light sightseeing tour including Devi's Fall and Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave. You can also explore local markets and old bazaars.
The rest of the day is free to relax take a walk along Phewa Lake, enjoy a boat ride, or unwind with a relaxing massage or spa after your trek. In the evening, enjoy the peaceful lakeside atmosphere.
After a short and scenic flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu, upon arrival, our cultural guide will warmly receive you at the airport and take you directly to visit the peaceful Boudhanath Stupa.
Boudhanath is one of the largest and most important Buddhist stupas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The massive white dome and golden spire create a serene atmosphere, while pilgrims and monks circle the stupa, spinning prayer wheels and chanting mantras. Surrounded by monasteries and local cafés, it offers a unique insight into Buddhist culture and a calm, spiritual experience.
After the visit, enjoy lunch at a nearby rooftop restaurant overlooking the Boudhanath Stupa, then drive to your hotel.
The rest of the day is free for you to relax, explore at your own pace, or enjoy some last-minute shopping.
After breakfast or lunch, depending on your flight time, we will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure.
If you have a later flight, you may leave your luggage at the hotel and enjoy your final day in Kathmandu. You can explore nearby areas or choose to visit cultural highlights such as Bhaktapur Durbar Square or Patan Durbar Square for additional sightseeing.
If you wish to extend your stay in Nepal, we would be happy to assist you with further tours, such as a full-day Kathmandu Valley sightseeing or a multi-day trip to Chitwan National Park. Please feel free to contact us for more information.
If you are interested in exploring more trekking options in the Annapurna region, you may also consider these popular and rewarding alternatives:
- Annapurna Base Camp Trek – A classic journey into the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary, offering diverse landscapes, rich culture, and breathtaking close-up mountain views
- Mardi Himal Trek – A short and scenic ridge trek known for its quiet trails and spectacular views of Mount Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range
- Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek – One of Nepal’s most famous short treks, perfect for beginners, featuring stunning sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
- Mohare Danda Trek – A peaceful eco-community trek with fewer crowds, offering beautiful viewpoints, local homestays, and a strong focus on sustainable tourism
The best times to trek to Everest Base Camp are during the pre-monsoon season (March to May) and the post-monsoon season (late September to November). These periods offer clearer skies and more stable weather.
Essential items include warm clothing, waterproof jacket and pants, good quality hiking boots, sleeping bag, sunglasses, sunscreen, water purification tablets, and a first aid kit.
Accommodations are primarily in teahouses which provide basic lodging and meals. Rooms are typically shared with basic facilities.
On average, trekkers walk about 5 to 7 hours per day, depending on the stage of the trek and individual pace.
The risk is minimal. The region is home to wildlife like the Himalayan Tahr and various birds, but they generally keep their distance from trekking paths.
The trek usually takes about 12 to 14 days, starting from Lukla. This includes time for acclimatization stops to adjust to the high altitude.
A moderate to high level of fitness is required. The trek involves long days of walking, often on steep and rough terrain. Preparing with cardiovascular training and strength exercises is advisable.
Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, and tiredness. Prevention involves acclimatizing properly by ascending slowly, staying hydrated, and possibly using altitude sickness medication under a doctor's advice.
Yes, most teahouses have Wi-Fi available for a charge. Mobile reception is available in many parts of the trek but can be unreliable as you gain altitude.
Yes, travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation and medical expenses at high altitudes is strongly recommended due to the remote nature and risks involved in the trek.
It is highly recommended to have a guide, especially for first-time trekkers. Guides offer valuable insights into the local culture, ensure safety, and help with route navigation and potential altitude sickness.
Yes, you will need a TIMS card (Trekker's Information Management System) and a Sagarmatha National Park permit. These can usually be arranged by your trekking company.
The cost can vary widely depending on the trekking agency, the length of the trek, included amenities, and whether you hire a private guide and porter. Expect to spend between $1,000 and $3,000.
Yes, most teahouses offer charging facilities for a small fee. However, it's a good idea to bring extra batteries or a solar charger, as electricity can be unreliable.
The teahouses offer a variety of meals, predominantly local Nepali food like dal bhat (rice and lentils) as well as some western dishes such as pasta and pizza.
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