03 Days Khumai Danda Trek | Best Destination for 2024/25

The Khumai Danda Trek is a beautiful trekking trail in the Annapurna region of Nepal. This trail is considered a hidden gem among trekkers and offers a unique and authentic Nepali cultural experience.

The Khumai Danda Trek is a must-visit destination for trekkers looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience. The trek takes you through diverse landscapes, including lush forests, raging rivers, and picturesque villages, before culminating in the spectacular Khumai Danda viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the Annapurna range and other surrounding mountains.

Unlike the more popular trekking trails in the region, such as the Annapurna Circuit Trek or the Everest Base Camp Trek, the Khumai Danda Trek offers a more secluded and tranquil experience. The trail is less crowded and offers a more authentic cultural experience, as you will be trekking through traditional Nepali villages and interacting with local people.

This guide provides all the information you need to plan and prepare for your Khumai Danda Trek. By the end of this guide, you will have all the knowledge and resources you need to make your Khumai Danda Trek a success.

Highlights of The Trip

• Khumai Danda Trek offers panoramic views of the Annapurna mountain range, including Annapurna South, Annapurna I, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).
• Passes through traditional villages inhabited by the Gurung and Magar ethnic groups, where you can experience their culture, cuisine, and way of life.
• Lush forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine, are home to various species of birds and wildlife, including Himalayan Thar and monkeys.
• Relatively new and less-visited route.
• Feast your eyes on the mesmerizing sunrise and sunset view from Korchan (3700m).
• A diverse range of vegetation, from sub-tropical forests to alpine meadows.
• The trail passes through the rural terraced fields of rice, millet, and maize, which are a common sight in Nepal.

Why Trek to Khumai Danda in 2024/25?

The Khumai Danda Trek is a relatively new and less-visited route, meaning the mountains’ natural beauty and tranquillity remain unspoiled. Trek passes through traditional Gurung and Magar villages, where you can stay in homestays run by the locals, eat local cuisine, and purchase locally made handicrafts.

Trekking in the mountains can be a great way to disconnect from the stress of daily life and immerse yourself in nature. It can be a chance to unplug, reflect, and recharge. Trekking to Khumai Danda can be a physical challenge, an excellent way to push yourself out of your comfort zone and build resilience.

Trekking to Khumai Danda in 2024 can be a great way to experience the region’s unspoiled natural beauty, support the local economy, challenge yourself physically and mentally, and immerse yourself in the local culture.

How to get to Khumai Danda Trek?

Khumai Danda Trek is a relatively easy and short trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal, and it can be easily accessed from Pokhara. From Pokhara, you can follow the below steps:

Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Hemja and trek to Hile Kharka (2160m) via Ghachowk
You will start early in the morning from Pokhara and drive to Hemja. From Hemja, the trek to Ghachowk begins. The trail is relatively easy and takes around 5–6 hours to cover a distance of 14 kilometers.

On the way, you will cross small villages and terraced fields. Once you reach Ghachowk, you can rest and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding hills and mountains. On the way, enjoy the majestic sight of Annapurna, Fishtail, and Lamjung Himal.

Day 2: Trek from Hile to Kumai Danda (3,245 m)
On another day, we will start a Hike to Kumai ridge, our final destination. Today you will mostly walk through the peaceful and bit challenging forest. Sometimes, the path gets narrower and more uphill. Today, the trek will take around 5-6 hours to reach Kumai Danda.

On the way, you will pass through grassy hills and dense forests. On the way to Kumai Danda, you will savor the mesmerizing view of mighty mountains, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail, and others. After crossing Samsur Deurali, you will finally arrive at Kumai Danda.

Day 3: Hike to Korchan Danda (3700m) and hike down to Ghachowk and drive to Pokhara
After breakfast, you’ll start descending towards Ghachowk. The trail passes through beautiful forests and offers stunning views of the Himalayan ranges. The trek takes around 6-7 hours to cover a distance of around 10 kilometers. You will then drive back to Pokhara from Ghachowk.

Overall, this trek is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Nepal and get a glimpse of the local culture and lifestyle. The trek to Korchan Danda is challenging, but the views of the Himalayan ranges make it all worth it. The descent to Ghachowk is relatively easy and offers a chance to see the rural lifestyle of the locals.

Related Article: Short 5 Days Mardi Himal Trek from Pokhara

Difficulty Level to Reach Kumai Danda

Khumai Danda is a trekking destination located in Nepal. The trek is considered moderate to challenging, and it is recommended that trekkers have a good level of fitness to complete it comfortably.

Fitness requirements for Khumai Trek

The Khumai Danda trek involves steep ascents and descents, rocky and uneven terrain, and high altitude. Trekkers should be able to walk for 6-8 hours a day at a steady pace with a light backpack. It is advisable to have prior trekking experience and to consult a doctor before embarking on this trek, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions.

Training and preparation tips for Khumai Trek

Trekking requires a combination of physical fitness, mental preparation, and logistical planning. Here are some training and preparation tips for trekking:

• Regular cardiovascular exercises like running, cycling, or swimming can help improve your stamina and endurance, making it easier to handle the physical demands of the trek.
• Strengthening exercises like squats, lunges, and leg presses can help prepare your leg muscles for the steep ascents and descents on the trek.
• Hiking on trails with varied terrain and inclines is an excellent way to simulate the conditions you will encounter on the trek.
• The Khumai Danda trek involves high altitude, and it is essential to acclimatize to prevent altitude sickness. Before starting the trek, spending a few days in Kathmandu or nearby regions is recommended.
• Staying hydrated and nourished is crucial while trekking. Carrying water bottles and energy bars and eating small meals throughout the day is advisable to maintain energy levels.
• Getting adequate rest and allowing your body to recover after each day’s trek is essential. Take breaks and listen to your body’s signals to avoid overexertion.

In summary, trekking to Khumai Danda requires good fitness and preparation. Regular exercise, hiking on varied terrain, acclimatization, hydration, and nutrition is crucial for a comfortable and safe trek.

Trekking permits and fees

Khumai Danda is a relatively new trekking route in Nepal, located in the Annapurna region. To trek in this area, you must obtain the necessary permits and pay the associated fees. Here are the permits and fees required for the Khumai Danda trek:

Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS): The TIMS card is a mandatory permit for all trekkers in Nepal. It costs USD 10 for individual trekkers and USD 20 for group trekkers.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): The ACAP is required for trekking in the Annapurna region, including Khumai Danda. The permit fee for foreign nationals is NPR 3,000 (approx. USD 27) per person and NPR 1,000 (approx. USD 9) for SAARC nationals.

Best time to visit Khumai Danda Trek

The best time to visit Khumai Danda Trek is from March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn). The weather during these seasons is generally clear and dry, with mild temperatures and lower chances of rain or snowfall.

During these months, the weather is generally stable, with clear skies and good visibility, making it ideal for trekking and enjoying the scenic views of the Annapurna region.

The hills and forests are lush in the spring, with rhododendron flowers in full bloom, adding color and vibrancy to the landscape. In the autumn, the skies are clear, and the temperature is mild, making it perfect for trekking and enjoying the panoramic views of the Annapurna range.

However, it’s worth noting that Khumai Danda Trek is a relatively new and less-travelled trekking route, and it may not be as busy as other popular trekking routes in the region, even during the peak season. It’s important to check the weather conditions and plan accordingly, especially if you’re trekking in the off-season.

Food and Accommodation options in Khumai Trek

Several tea houses and lodges are available along the Khumai Danda Trek, offering basic accommodation and meals. These tea houses/lodges generally have shared rooms with twin beds, blankets, and pillows. The toilets are usually shared, and hot showers may not be available in some places.

Tea houses and lodges along the trekking route offer basic Nepalese and Western-style meals, including dal bhat (rice, lentil soup, and vegetables), noodles, pasta, and fried rice. Some tea houses may also offer snacks and beverages, such as tea, coffee, and soft drinks. It’s advisable to bring some energy bars or snacks with you for extra sustenance during the trek.

Safety Tips for Khumai Danda Trek

The Khumai Danda Trek is a popular hiking trail in Nepal that offers stunning views of the Himalayas. It is important to follow safety tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.

Altitude sickness prevention and treatment

• Acclimatize properly by spending a few days at lower altitudes before starting the trek.
• Drink plenty of water and fluids to stay hydrated.
• Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol.
• Take medication to prevent altitude sickness as prescribed by your doctor.

Tips for trekking solo or in a group

• Trek with a knowledgeable guide or in a group.
• Stay on marked trails and avoid taking shortcuts.
• Do not trek during monsoon season or in adverse weather conditions.
• Carry a sufficient amount of water, food, and supplies.

General safety tips for Khumai Danda Trek

• Do not trek alone at night.
• Respect the local culture and customs.
• Do not litter or damage the environment.
• Carry a map and compass, and know how to use them.
• Wear appropriate clothing and footwear.
• Carry a first aid kit and know how to use it.
• Record your daily progress and share it with your emergency contacts.

At Last,

Khumai Danda Trek is an excellent choice for those looking for a short yet rewarding trekking experience in Nepal. Its stunning natural beauty, friendly locals, and relatively easy terrain make it an ideal destination for seasoned trekkers and beginners.

By following the safety tips and advice outlined in this ultimate guide, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience. So pack your bags, put on your hiking boots, and get ready to explore the breathtaking views and rich culture of Khumai Danda Trek.