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Khumai Danda Trek — 3 Days from Pokhara
Trekking

Khumai Danda Trek — 3 Days from Pokhara

2 Nights / 3 Days Nepal, Annapurna Region
Khumai Danda Trek — 3 Days from Pokhara — photo 2 Khumai Danda Trek — 3 Days from Pokhara — photo 3
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Destination

Nepal, Annapurna Region

Accommodation

Teahouse / Mountain Lodge

Walking Distance

~35 km

Duration

2 Nights / 3 Days

Max. Elevation

3,700 m (12,139 ft) at Korchan Danda

Meals Included

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Best Season

Spring (Mar–May), Autumn (Sep–Nov)

Grade

Moderate

Overview

The Khumai Danda Trek is a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path ridge trek in the Annapurna Sanctuary that's quickly becoming one of the standout short destinations for 2026 and 2027. Perched on the southern ridgeline directly beneath the sacred spire of Mount Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Khumai Danda delivers sweeping trans-Himalayan scenery in just three days — no weeks of foot travel required.

Starting a short drive from Pokhara, the trail climbs quickly through traditional Gurung and Magar stone villages, terraced hillsides, and quiet moss-covered rhododendron forest. The centerpiece of the trip is an early morning excursion to Korchan Danda (3,700 m), where a 360-degree panorama opens up across Annapurna South (7,219 m), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), Mardi Himal (5,587 m), Lamjung Himal (6,983 m), and the distant silhouette of the Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) range.

If you're looking for a short trek near Pokhara that delivers genuine high-altitude mountain views, close-up access to Machhapuchhre, and authentic Gurung village culture — all inside a compact 3-day window — Khumai Danda is one of the strongest options currently opening up in the Annapurna region.

Best Time to Visit Khumai Danda

Autumn (September – November): The prime trekking window. Crisp post-monsoon air, warm daytime walking temperatures, and exceptionally stable blue skies deliver the clearest mountain views of the year.

Spring (March – May): Hillsides burst into color with red, pink, and white rhododendron blooms alongside wild orchids. Moderate temperatures and clear morning vistas make this an excellent window for ridge photography.

Winter (December – February): Clear skies and peaceful, uncrowded trails, though night temperatures at Khumai Danda drop below freezing and snowfall can cover the upper ridge toward Korchan.

Monsoon (June – August): Heavy rain brings lush green forests and overflowing waterfalls, but trails turn slippery with leeches present, and morning cloud cover frequently hides the peaks.

Photos / Videos

Khumai Danda Trek — 3 Days from Pokhara photo 1
Khumai Danda Trek — 3 Days from Pokhara photo 2
Khumai Danda Trek — 3 Days from Pokhara photo 3
Khumai Danda Trek — 3 Days from Pokhara photo 4
Khumai Danda Trek — 3 Days from Pokhara photo 5
Khumai Danda Trek — 3 Days from Pokhara photo 6
Khumai Danda Trek — 3 Days from Pokhara photo 7

Trip Highlights

  • Korchan Danda Sunrise Viewpoint (3,700 m): Watch golden light hit the massive south face of Machhapuchhre, Mardi Himal, and Annapurna South
  • Close Proximity to Mt. Machhapuchhre: Stand directly in the shadow of the revered Fishtail mountain
  • Charming Gurung Culture: Experience local hospitality in pristine stone villages like Ghachowk and Lhachok
  • Enchanted Woodland Walks: Pass through dense moss-draped oak and blooming rhododendron forest
  • Tranquil Uncrowded Ridge: A genuine, quieter alternative to busier trails like Poon Hill or Mardi Himal

Detailed Itinerary

2 Trek from Hile Kharka to Khumai Danda
Trek Distance
~11 km
Highest Altitude
2,160 m → 3,245 m
Trek Duration
5–6 hrs
Local Teahouse

Leaving Hile Kharka, the trail hugs a narrow forested mountain spine. Climbing past Samsur Deurali and Samsur Kharka, the dense canopy opens into high-altitude grassland with views into the valleys on either side. Arrive at Khumai Danda by afternoon, where the peak of Machhapuchhre rises sharply directly above the teahouse settlement.

3 Early Hike to Korchan Danda, Descent to Ghachowk & Drive to Pokhara
Trek Distance
~16 km
Drive / Flight
~1.5–2 hrs
Highest Altitude
3,245 m → 3,700 m (Korchan Danda) → 820 m (Pokhara)
Trek Duration
5–6 hrs

Wake before dawn (around 4:30 AM) for a steep 1.5-hour climb up the grassy ridge to Korchan Danda (3,700 m). Watch morning light illuminate Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Mardi Himal, and Machhapuchhre. After photos, return to Khumai Danda for breakfast, then begin the long descent through Hile Kharka toward Ghachowk village, where your private vehicle meets you for the drive back to Pokhara.

Express 2-Day Version

For trekkers on a tighter schedule, a condensed 2-day option is available. Take an early-morning 4WD jeep directly from Pokhara to Saripakha or lower Hile Kharka, then trek straight to Khumai Danda on Day 1 (roughly 6–7 hours). On Day 2, complete the sunrise hike to Korchan Danda, then descend to the trailhead for an evening drive back to Pokhara.

Distance & Stage Table

Days

Route

Distance

Walking Time

Altitude

Day 1

Pokhara ➔ Ghachowk/Saripakha (Drive) ➔ Hile Kharka

~8 km (Walk)

3 – 4 hours

2,160 m

Day 2

Hile Kharka ➔ Samsur Deurali ➔ Khumai Danda

~11 km

5 – 6 hours

3,245 m

Day 3

Khumai Danda ➔ Korchan Danda ➔ Ghachowk ➔ Pokhara (Drive)

~16 km

5 – 6 hours

3,700 m

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Includes & Excludes

What's Included

Transportation

  • All ground transfers by jeep before and after the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

Accommodation

  • The best available twin or triple-sharing teahouse accommodation during the trek.

Food & Meals

  • We provide 3 meals per day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek.
  • Each meal is served as a single serving
  • Himalayan Tea twice a day.
  • Fresh/Dry fruits along the trek and tea/coffee break during the trek.

Guide & Porter

  • One highly experienced and friendly guide, including his food, accommodation, salary, equipment, and accidental insurance.

Permits & Fees

  • Complete trekking arrangements with the required TIMS for trekkers and Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit.

Medical / Safety Assistance

  • First aid medical kit with an oximeter.
  • Water bottle to store hot water overnight.

Equipment

  • Trekking poles & Sleeping bag, if necessary. (return after the trek)

Other Included Services

  • Government taxes, TDS, and Office Service charges. (No hidden charges)
  • North Nepal Trekking achievement certificate.

Not Included

International Flights

  • Anything related to International flight airfares, such as Nepal entry visa fees, excess baggage charges, International flight tickets, etc.

Accommodation not Included

  • Extra night accommodations due to changes in the itinerary.

Meals not Included

  • Personal expenses before the trek and during the trek (any shopping, boiled water, tea, coffee (if more than 2 times), cold drinks, alcoholic beverages, hot showers, telephone calls, Wifi, cell-phone, camera battery recharges, and so on).

Supporter / Porter

  • Supporter/porter to carry your luggage during the trek up to 22 kg total.

Travel Insurance

  • Travel insurance covers high-altitude helicopter rescue and evacuation, along with medical costs.

Tips

  • Tips and gratitude for guides and porters.

Other Exclusions

  • Additional costs include additional days due to delays caused by natural/uncontrollable phenomena such as bad weather, landslides, and changes of plans (itinerary modifications) due to safety concerns, illness, and so on.
  • Lastly, all of the costs and expenses that aren't listed in the “What’s Included?” section.

Map & Route

Route map for Khumai Danda Trek — 3 Days from Pokhara
Click to enlarge

Trip Info

Duration 2 Nights / 3 Days
Difficulty Moderate
Best Season Spring (Mar–May), Autumn (Sep–Nov)
Location Nepal, Annapurna Region
Region Annapurna Region
Max Altitude 3,700 m (12,139 ft) at Korchan Danda
Group Size 1–12 persons
Accommodation Teahouse / Mountain Lodge
Meals Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Transportation Private / Shared 4WD Jeep
Permit ACAP Permit & Local Area/TIMS Permit (arranged by agency)

Packing Checklist 0 / 51 Packed

Head & Face

0/6

Upper Body

0/7

Handwear

0/3

Lower Body

0/6

Footwear

0/6

Backpack / Other Gears

0/5

Electronics

0/4

Toiletries

0/7

Medications

0/4

Optional Items

0/3

Cost & Dates

Group Pricing

Group Size Price / Person
1 person USD 300
2 persons USD 280
3 – 6 persons USD 260
7 – 12 persons USD 240
13 – 25 persons USD 220

Frequently Asked Questions

Trip Info & FAQs for Khumai Danda Trek — 3 Days from Pokhara

Route & Altitude

The highest point is Korchan Danda at 3,700 m (12,139 ft), reached on the Day 3 sunrise hike. The overnight stop just below it, Khumai Danda, sits at 3,245 m.
The standard package is 2 nights, 3 days. A faster 2-day express version is also available for trekkers short on time, and it's possible to extend the trip up to a week by combining it with the neighboring Mardi Himal trek.
From the 3,700 m viewpoint, you get sweeping views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Mardi Himal, Lamjung Himal, and the distant Dhaulagiri range — all lit up during the classic early-morning sunrise window.

Difficulty & Who It Suits

Yes. It's a genuinely beginner-friendly trek — most first-timers can complete it comfortably within the standard 3-4 day window, while more experienced trekkers with prior hiking background can sometimes finish it in two days. If you run into trouble on the trail, your guide can slow the pace or extend the itinerary to suit you.
Solo trekking is possible, but international trekkers are required to have a licensed guide, in line with current Annapurna Conservation Area regulations.

Accommodation & Food

Accommodation is in basic teahouses and lodges, similar to other short treks in the region. Since Khumai Danda is newer and less established than routes like Poon Hill or Mardi Himal, options are more limited — but the available teahouses are simple, comfortable, and locally run.
Teahouses along the route typically serve traditional Nepali meals — dal bhat, soups, and curries — along with some basic continental options. All main meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) are included in the standard package

Permits & Logistics

Since the route falls inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, you'll need the ACAP entry permit along with a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card — required for nearly all treks in this region. These are generally arranged in advance by your trekking agency.
The trek begins with roughly a 1.5-hour private or shared 4WD jeep ride from Pokhara to Saripakha (via Ghachowk), and ends the same way — a similar drive back to Pokhara from Ghachowk on Day 3.

Best Season

Since the trek doesn't gain extreme altitude, it's walkable nearly year-round. Autumn (September–November) and spring (March–May) offer the clearest skies and best rhododendron displays. Winter (December–February) rewards you with snow-capped peaks if you don't mind the cold. Even monsoon (June–August), while wetter and leech-prone, brings a burst of wildflowers that many trekkers find worthwhile.

Visa & Insurance

Your travel insurance should provide coverage suitable for trekking up to Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 m (13,550 ft). The policy should ideally include:

Helicopter evacuation
High-altitude medical treatment
Emergency medical rescue
Trip cancellation or interruption
Accident and injury treatment
Hospitalization and medicines
No. Travel insurance is not included in the Annapurna Base Camp Trek package. Travellers should arrange suitable insurance separately before arriving in Nepal. Make sure the policy specifically covers trekking at the maximum altitude of the trek, as some standard travel insurance policies have altitude restrictions.
Most foreign travellers require a Nepal tourist visa, while Indian citizens are exempt from this requirement. Foreign visitors generally need a passport with at least six months of validity and the required visa documents and fees.

A tourist visa can generally be obtained through visa-on-arrival facilities at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or designated border entry points, or through a Nepalese embassy/consulate before travelling.
For an 11-day Annapurna Base Camp Trek, a 15-day Nepal tourist visa may be enough if your travel schedule is fixed. However, choosing a 30-day visa gives you more flexibility in case of flight delays, itinerary changes, or if you plan to stay in Nepal for a few extra days before or after the trek. The source content states that a 30-day visa typically costs around $50 USD.

Equipment

Trekking poles are highly recommended as they can reduce pressure on your knees and provide better balance, particularly on the steep stone steps around Sinuwa and during the descent toward Jhinu Danda. Crampons or microspikes are generally only necessary for winter trekking, especially from December to February, when snow or ice may be present on the trail. If required, these can be rented in Pokhara or Kathmandu.
Choose sturdy, waterproof trekking boots with good ankle support and reliable grip. Avoid wearing completely new boots on the trek, as they should be properly broken in beforehand to reduce the risk of blisters. A slightly larger fit can also be useful when wearing thick trekking socks, especially during long walking days.
Pack clothing that can be layered according to changing temperatures and altitude. Useful items include thermal wear, fleece layers, a down jacket, comfortable trekking trousers, insulating layers, and waterproof outerwear. You should also carry waterproof trekking boots, gloves, a warm hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a sleeping bag, headlamp, reusable water bottle (1–2 litres), toiletries, personal medicines, and important documents such as your passport and trekking permits.

Health and Safety

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is generally considered manageable when following a properly planned itinerary and travelling with an experienced, licensed guide. The route has established trails, regular trekking activity, and teahouses along the way. The main concerns are altitude-related illness and the more challenging terrain between Deurali and Machhapuchhre Base Camp. Proper pacing and guidance can help manage these risks.
The itinerary is planned with gradual elevation gains to allow your body time to adjust. Guides can monitor trekkers for signs of altitude sickness and overall well-being throughout the journey. Diamox (acetazolamide) may be used for altitude sickness when recommended by a qualified medical professional. If serious symptoms appear, the trek should be adjusted and appropriate emergency assistance arranged.
You will be accompanied by licensed guides familiar with the Annapurna region and local trail conditions. The itinerary may be adjusted according to your health, group pace, weather, and trail conditions.

Trekkers should also maintain good hydration, get sufficient rest, dress appropriately for the weather, and eat nutritious meals. The source recommends around 3–4 litres of warm water per day, approximately 6–7 hours of sleep, and avoiding alcohol and smoking during the trek.

Payment

You can make a booking by completing the online booking form or by contacting the team through email, phone, or WhatsApp. Once your travel details are confirmed and the required 10% deposit has been received, your booking will be secured. You will then be asked to provide the necessary documents, after which the team will share the information and preparations needed for your trek.
Several payment options are available, including local or international bank transfers, Visa, AMEX, Mastercard, debit cards, Wise, Western Union, and secure online payment through the website. Payments can also be made in USD cash upon arrival in Kathmandu. The exact payment instructions will be provided during the booking process.
Although the trek package covers most of the main services, travellers should keep some extra budget for personal expenses. These may include Nepal visa fees, suitable travel insurance, tips for guides and porters, snacks, drinks, hot showers, drinking water, souvenirs, and equipment rentals.
Around $15–$20 USD per day (approximately 2,500–3,000 NPR) should generally be sufficient for personal expenses during the trek. This can cover items such as drinks, snacks, Wi-Fi, charging, hot showers, and tips. Since ATMs may not be readily available along much of the route, it is advisable to withdraw or exchange enough cash in Kathmandu or Pokhara and carry smaller denominations such as 20, 50, 100, or 500 NPR

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Khumai Danda Trek — 3 Days from Pokhara
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