Mohare Danda Trek – 9 Days

Mohare-danda-trek
  • Duration6 Days
  • DestinationNepal
  • Difficulty Level Moderate Trek
  • Maximum Altitude 3,313 meters (Mohare Danda)
  • Activity Trekking & Cultural Exploration
  • Group Size 1 - 20
  • Accommodation lodges & tea houses
  • Meals breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Best Season Spring (March–May) & Autumn (September–November)

Overview of Mohare Danda Trek

The Mohare Danda Trek is one of Nepal’s most rewarding short trekking adventures, offering a perfect mix of breathtaking Himalayan scenery, cultural immersion, and sustainable tourism. Over nine unforgettable days, we journey through pristine forests, terraced hillsides, and traditional villages, all while enjoying spectacular panoramas of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Standing at 3,300 meters, Mohare Danda is a hidden viewpoint that rivals, and in many ways surpasses, the more popular Poon Hill, yet it remains blissfully uncrowded. This is a trek where we can fully immerse ourselves in the peace and authenticity of rural Nepal.

What sets Mohare Danda apart is its community-based eco-tourism model, which channels our trekking expenses directly into local projects—supporting schools, improving infrastructure, and empowering rural communities. Instead of staying in standard tea houses, we spend our nights in community-run lodges and homestays, experiencing genuine hospitality and meals made from fresh, organic ingredients grown locally. This means every night’s rest and every meal not only nourishes us but also helps preserve the cultural and environmental heritage of the region.

The trail itself is a blend of gentle ascents, lush rhododendron forests, serene ridges, and scenic viewpoints. Along the way, we pass through picturesque Magar and Gurung settlements like Nangi, Tikot, and Bans Kharka, where traditions are still deeply rooted in daily life. We share tea with locals, witness traditional dances, and get a glimpse into the farming lifestyle that has sustained these communities for generations. While the mountains are an obvious highlight—Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and more- it’s the people and their way of life that leave a lasting impact.

For those seeking a short, scenic, and meaningful trekking experience, the Mohare Danda Trek offers the perfect alternative to the busier routes in the Annapurna region. It is accessible yet remote, scenic yet culturally rich, and peaceful without ever feeling too isolated. Whether you’re looking to witness unforgettable Himalayan sunrises, contribute to local development, or simply enjoy a more personal connection with the land and its people, this 9-day trek delivers it all.

Who Is This Trek For?

The Mohare Danda Trek is designed for travelers who want a peaceful, authentic, and culturally enriching trekking experience without the rush and crowds of more commercial routes. It is ideal for those who value connection over convenience and prefer meaningful encounters with local people over tourist-heavy experiences.

If you are a first-time trekker, this route is perfect because it is relatively short, has manageable daily walking distances, and does not reach extreme altitudes. It is also suitable for families or small private groups who want to explore the beauty of the Annapurna region without worrying about hectic trails. Experienced trekkers will appreciate Mohare Danda for its off-the-beaten-path charm and its focus on eco-friendly tourism, offering a refreshing change from mainstream trekking routes.

For those who wish to combine stunning Himalayan panoramas with genuine cultural immersion, this trek is unmatched. Every day on the trail allows us to interact with Magar and Gurung families, experience their traditions, and enjoy farm-fresh meals—all while trekking through landscapes that shift from river valleys to lush forests and panoramic ridgelines.

Why Is This Trek Better Than Other Short Treks?

While popular short treks like Poon Hill and Ghorepani offer beautiful mountain views, they also come with large crowds, especially during peak seasons. Mohare Danda, on the other hand, offers equally—if not more—spectacular scenery with far fewer people. This allows us to enjoy peaceful moments at viewpoints, take uninterrupted photographs, and truly connect with nature.

Another advantage is the community-based tourism model. Unlike other treks where profits often flow to private lodge owners, the Mohare Danda Trek ensures that most of our spending directly benefits local communities. This means that every step we take supports sustainable livelihoods, education, and conservation projects. Lastly, the diversity of experiences makes Mohare Danda stand out. The trail offers rich cultural encounters, diverse landscapes, and the rare opportunity to stay in eco-lodges built and managed by locals. It’s not just about reaching a viewpoint; it’s about becoming part of the community, even if only for a few days.

Final Thoughts 

The Mohare Danda Trek is not just another Himalayan trekking route; it’s a journey into the heart of Nepal’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. In just nine days, we experience the full spectrum of what makes the Annapurna region extraordinary: snow-capped peaks glowing in the sunrise, lush rhododendron forests, ancient stone villages, and the warm smiles of the Magar and Gurung people. What makes this trek truly special is its commitment to sustainable, community-based tourism. Every step we take, every night we stay in a local eco-lodge, and every meal we share directly supports rural communities and helps preserve the landscapes we admire. It’s a rare chance to travel responsibly while still enjoying all the comforts and beauty that a Himalayan trek offers.

Whether you are a first-time trekker seeking an accessible introduction to the Himalayas or an experienced adventurer looking for a quieter alternative to crowded trails, Mohare Danda delivers. Its peaceful trails, breathtaking panoramas, and genuine cultural encounters leave us with more than just photographs; they leave us with memories, friendships, and a deeper connection to the mountains and people of Nepal. If you want a trek that combines scenery, serenity, and social impact, the Mohare Danda Trek is an adventure worth taking, not just for the views, but for the stories you’ll bring back and the difference you’ll make along the way.

Highlights
  • Stunning Sunrise & Sunset Views from Mohare Danda, offering a 360° panorama of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and other Himalayan peaks.
  • Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience with fewer trekkers compared to Poon Hill, giving you a peaceful and intimate connection with nature.
  • Eco-Community Lodge Stay supports local communities and promotes sustainable tourism in the Annapurna region.
  • Scenic Rhododendron Forest Trails that come alive with vibrant blooms during spring.
  • Authentic Cultural Encounters with warm Magar and Gurung villages, learning about their traditions, music, and lifestyle.
  • Breathtaking Ridge Walks where you can see mountains on both sides, creating unforgettable moments.
  • Close Interaction with Locals staying in homestays and community lodges run by villagers themselves.
  • Diverse Landscapes — from terraced farmlands and forested hills to high ridges and alpine meadows.
  • Wildlife Sightings of Himalayan birds, langurs, and other local fauna along the way.
  • A peaceful alternative to Crowded Routes, while still enjoying equally spectacular Himalayan views.
     
Itinerary

As soon as we land at Tribhuvan International Airport, the bustling energy of Kathmandu greets us, colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, the faint smell of incense from nearby temples, and the rhythmic honking of motorbikes weaving through narrow streets. We are transferred to our hotel in Thamel, the lively trekking hub of the city.

The day is free to explore at a gentle pace. We might wander into small tea shops, pick up last-minute trekking gear, or visit a UNESCO heritage site such as Kathmandu Durbar Square or Boudhanath Stupa. In the evening, we enjoy a welcome dinner with our trekking guide, discussing the adventure ahead and reviewing the route. The excitement builds as we prepare to leave the city behind for the mountains tomorrow.

  • Max. Altitude:1400m
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Meals:Dinner

We set out early for a scenic drive to Galeshwor, following the winding Prithvi Highway along the Trishuli and Kali Gandaki Rivers. The scenery changes constantly, terraced rice fields, cascading waterfalls, and glimpses of snow-capped peaks in the distance.

From Galeshwor, our trek officially begins. We cross a suspension bridge over the Kali Gandaki, feeling the rush of the river beneath us. The trail climbs gently through orange groves, maize fields, and small Magar settlements, where children wave and greet us with “Namaste.” After about three hours of steady walking, we arrive in Bans Kharka, a quiet hillside village surrounded by lush forests. Tonight, we stay in our first community lodge, enjoying a warm meal and the soft glow of oil lamps.

  • Max. Altitude:1,525m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We wake to the sound of roosters and the smell of woodsmoke drifting from village kitchens. After a hearty breakfast, we begin our ascent through oak and rhododendron forests, where birdsong accompanies our steps.

Midway, we pass by terraced farms where locals are busy tending to vegetables and livestock. The higher we climb, the more expansive the views become, revealing the silhouettes of Annapurna South and Dhaulagiri. By afternoon, we reach Nangi Village, a progressive settlement famous for its community forestry project and Nepal’s first wireless internet network in a rural area. The evening is spent chatting with locals and enjoying a simple yet hearty dinner of dal bhat made from fresh garden produce.

  • Max. Altitude:2230m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This is one of the most exciting days of the trek. The trail climbs steadily through dense rhododendron forests, their twisted trunks covered in moss and orchids. In spring, the trail is a tunnel of red, pink, and white blossoms, making the climb a magical experience.

As we ascend, the vegetation thins, and the first sweeping views appear: Dhaulagiri’s massive white wall, the pyramid of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and the Annapurna range stretching endlessly. By afternoon, we reach Mohare Danda, a broad grassy ridge that serves as our mountain balcony. The sunset here is unforgettable, the sky turns orange, pink, and deep purple as the Himalayas glow in the fading light. We stay in a community eco-lodge perched on the ridge, where we fall asleep under a blanket of stars.

  • Max. Altitude:3,300m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We rise early to witness the sunrise over the Himalayas—a slow, magical reveal as the first light touches Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, and Nilgiri. After breakfast, we begin a gentle descent along ridge-top trails with continuous panoramic views.

The path winds through forested slopes, alpine meadows, and quiet glades where wildflowers bloom in abundance. The air is crisp, the atmosphere peaceful, and we meet only a handful of locals carrying firewood or tending their animals. By late afternoon, we arrive in Danda Kharka, a small settlement where our lodge offers a cozy place to rest.

  • Max. Altitude:2,800m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today’s walk takes us deeper into cultural immersion. We descend gradually to Tikot Village, a traditional Magar settlement with stone-paved streets and slate-roofed houses. The rhythm of daily life here is slow—women weaving baskets, elders chatting on porches, and children playing with handmade toys.

In the evening, the villagers may welcome us with a traditional cultural performance of Magar dances and music. The warmth of their hospitality makes Tikot a highlight of the trek, and staying in a family-run lodge offers a glimpse into life that has changed little for generations.

  • Max. Altitude:2,210m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, we descend through terraced farmlands and bamboo groves to Tiplyang, a village along the Kali Gandaki River. This marks the end of our trekking journey. From here, we drive to Pokhara, a lakeside city nestled in the shadow of the Himalayas. In the evening, we stroll along Phewa Lake, perhaps taking a boat ride to see the reflection of Machhapuchhre shimmering in the water. The city’s laid-back atmosphere is a welcome contrast after days on the trail.

  • Max. Altitude:822m
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We take a morning drive or flight back to Kathmandu, where we check into our hotel for one last night in Nepal. The rest of the day is free for last-minute shopping or visiting any sites we missed earlier. In the evening, we gather for a farewell dinner, sharing memories and laughter as we look back on our incredible Mohare Danda adventure.

  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

If you have an evening flight, you can visit some cultural places during the day. Then our representative will drop you at the Tribhuwan International Airport for your onward flight.

    Cost Details
    Includes

    Airport Services

    • Private vehicle transfers for airport pick-up and drop-off.
    • Transport to the hotel on arrival and to the airport for your final departure.

    Accommodation

    • In Kathmandu: 2 nights at a comfortable 3-star hotel with breakfast (1 night before and 1 night after your trek).
    • During the Trek: 6 nights in local community lodges/tea houses on a twin-sharing basis, supporting local homestay culture.

    Meals and Drinking Water

    • 7 Breakfasts: Freshly prepared items like Tibetan bread, porridge, pancakes, eggs, toast, tea, and coffee.
    • 6 Lunches: Local dishes such as dal bhat (rice with lentils and vegetables), noodles, momos, fried rice, soups, and pasta.
    • 6 Dinners: Hearty meals similar to lunch, including Sherpa stew, vegetable curries, pizza, spaghetti, and dal bhat.
    • Water: Normal drinking water treated with purification tablets.

    Permits and Entry Fees

    • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) entry permit.
    • TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card.
    • All required government taxes and local fees.

    Guides, Staff, and Support Team

    • Professional, licensed, English-speaking trekking guide with first-aid training.
    • Staff salaries, insurance, daily expenses, food, and necessary gear for the crew.

    Transportation

    • Private vehicle transfer from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
    • Private or local transport from Pokhara to the trek starting point (Galeshwar or Nayapul).
    • Return transfer from the trek ending point back to Pokhara.
    • Tourist bus from Pokhara to Kathmandu (or optional flight at extra cost).

    Trekking Essentials

    • Mohare Danda trekking map.
    • Sleeping bag suitable for temperatures as low as -10°C.
    • Duffel bag (75 liters).
    • Well-equipped first-aid kit.

    Emergency Support

    • Insurance coverage for all Nepali staff.
    • Assistance in arranging emergency rescue if required (personal travel insurance mandatory).

    Extra Perks

    • Certificate of achievement after completing the trek.
    • Free storage for extra luggage at the trekking office in Kathmandu.
    • Complimentary trekking cap and T-shirt.
    • Farewell dinner at a top restaurant in Kathmandu with the trekking team.
    Excludes

    International Travel & Visa

    • Flights to and from Nepal.
    • Nepal visa fees (USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, USD 125 for 90 days).

    Accommodation and Meals in Kathmandu

    • Extra hotel nights if you arrive early, leave late, or return before your planned date.
    • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.

    Travel Insurance

    • Personal insurance covering medical care, high-altitude evacuation, trip delays or cancellations, and other emergencies.

    Personal Expenses

    • Hot showers, extra snacks or drinks, Wi-Fi, battery charging, and upgraded rooms during the trek.
    • Drinks like bottled water, coffee, soft drinks, and alcohol.

    Personal Gear and Toiletries

    • Your clothing, trekking equipment, medical kit, and personal hygiene items. (A suggested packing list will be provided.)

    Special Permits

    • Extra fees for drone use, special filming, or camera permits.

    Tips and Other Costs

    • Tips for guides, porters, and staff (recommended but not compulsory).
    • Any additional activities or services not listed under “What’s Included.”
    Departure Dates
    Select a Departure Month
    Trip Date PriceStatus 
    Start DateStartsSep 12, 2025End DateEndsSep 17, 2025PriceUS$0StatusAvailable
    Start DateStartsSep 23, 2025End DateEndsSep 28, 2025PriceUS$0StatusAvailable
    Useful Info

    Difficulty Level of the Mohare Danda Trek

    The Mohare Danda Trek is considered moderate in difficulty. We trek for about 4–6 hours per day, with gradual ascents and descents along well-maintained trails. The highest point, Mohare Danda, is 3,300 meters, which means there is minimal risk of severe altitude sickness compared to higher treks like Annapurna Base Camp or Everest Base Camp.

    The trek does require a basic level of fitness. We recommend doing some light hiking, walking, or cardio exercises for a few weeks before the trek to prepare your body. Trekking poles can be helpful for downhill sections, especially after rain, when the trail can be a bit slippery.

    Even if you have never trekked before, with reasonable preparation and determination, you can comfortably complete this route and enjoy every moment of it.

    Accommodation on the Mohare Danda Trek

    One of the most unique aspects of the Mohare Danda Trek is its community-run eco-lodges and homestays. Unlike typical commercial tea houses found on popular trails, these accommodations are part of a community-based tourism initiative aimed at directly benefiting local families and villages.

    The rooms are clean and comfortable, usually featuring twin beds with warm blankets. Bathrooms are generally shared, and in some places, there may be basic squat toilets instead of Western-style ones. Heating is usually provided in the dining areas, with a central wood stove keeping everyone warm during chilly evenings. While you won’t find luxury amenities here, the charm lies in the genuine hospitality of the hosts, who treat every guest as part of their family.

    Staying in these lodges means we are directly contributing to rural development—funding education, healthcare, and community infrastructure. Every night’s stay feels more meaningful, knowing that our presence is helping preserve the cultural and environmental integrity of the Annapurna region.

    Food on the Mohare Danda Trek

    The food experience on the Mohare Danda Trek is a delicious blend of Nepali tradition and farm-to-table freshness. Since most of the lodges grow their own produce, meals are healthy, organic, and packed with flavor. The staple dal bhat—steamed rice with lentil soup, seasonal vegetables, and pickles, provides the perfect fuel for trekking days.

    Other options include chapati with curry, noodle soup, fried rice, pancakes, omelets, and fresh fruit, depending on the season. Tea is served generously, with varieties like masala tea, lemon ginger honey tea, and black tea to keep us warm and hydrated. Breakfasts are hearty, often featuring porridge, eggs, and bread or Tibetan bread. One of the highlights is sharing meals in a family-style setting, where we eat together with other trekkers and locals, exchanging stories and learning about village life. The food is not just nourishment—it’s an important part of the cultural exchange that makes this trek so special.

    Permits Required for the Mohare Danda Trek

    Trekking in the Annapurna region requires specific permits, and the Mohare Danda Trek is no exception. We need:

    • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – This helps fund conservation efforts, trail maintenance, and local projects within the Annapurna region.
    • TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) – This ensures trekker safety and keeps a record of trekkers in case of emergencies.

    Both permits can be arranged in Kathmandu or Pokhara before starting the trek. If you’re booking through a trekking agency, they usually handle this process for you. Carry your permits at all times during the trek, as there are occasional checkpoints along the route.

    Best Time to Trek Mohare Danda

    The Mohare Danda Trek can technically be done year-round, but the best trekking seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November).

    • Spring (March–May) – This is a spectacular season for Mohare Danda. The rhododendron forests burst into color, creating a vibrant contrast with the snow-covered peaks. The weather is mild, and the skies are mostly clear, making it perfect for photography.

    • Autumn (September–November) – Widely considered the ideal trekking season in Nepal, autumn offers crystal-clear skies, dry weather, and stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas. The temperatures are comfortable, and the trails are in their best condition.

    • Winter (December–February) – The trek is still possible in winter, with the bonus of even fewer trekkers. However, nights can be very cold, especially at Mohare Danda, so warm clothing is essential.

    • Monsoon (June–August) – This is the least recommended time, as the trails can be muddy, leeches are common, and views are often obstructed by clouds. That said, the lush greenery after rainfall can be beautiful if you don’t mind the weather.