Mohare Danda Trek from Pokhara- 5 Days Package & Cost
The Mohare Danda Trek offers a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experience with stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Trekking through rhododendron forests, terraced fields, and Magar villages, you'll enjoy breathtaking sunrises and sunsets without the crowds of more popular routes like Poon Hill. The trek is accessible to moderate trekkers and families, with comfortable eco-friendly lodges along the way. You'll also experience the rich local culture, with warm interactions with the Magar communities. It’s a short yet rewarding journey, combining natural beauty, cultural immersion, and a sense of tranquility.
Trip at a Glance
Key Highlights
- Stunning sights of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchre.
- Amazing sunset and sunrise sights from Mohare Danda
- A visit to the well-known lookout point, Poon Hill.
- Accommodations in eco-friendly lodges at Nangi Village and Mohare Danda
- Explore the lovely Magar villages like Ghorepani and Ulleri.
- A brief trek ideal for families and beginners
- Enjoy hiking on less crowded, hidden paths
Benefits of the Choosing Mohare Danda Trek with the Best Heritage Tour
- Convenient booking and reservation process
- Virtual trip briefing post booking confirmation
- Various communication channels (Email, WhatsApp, Facebook, WeChat, Viber, Skype, Zoom)
- 24/7 phone assistance at +977- 9851149197/+9779810043046
- Simple payment method
- Complimentary private airport transfers to/from the hotel
- Provision of sleeping bags and down jackets if needed
- Duffle bag for the porters
- Free storage for extra luggage at the Best Heritage Tour store during the trek.
Trip Overview
The Mohare Danda Trek is an exciting and relatively new option for those seeking short treks in the breathtaking Annapurna region of Nepal. Spanning just five days, this trek provides an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the area while enjoying panoramic views of some of the most iconic peaks in the Himalayas, including the majestic Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchre.
One of the highlights of the trek is the chance to visit two prominent viewpoints: Mohare Danda, also known as Mohare Hill, which stands at an elevation of 3,320 meters, and Poon Hill, at 3,210 meters. Both locations are renowned for their spectacular sunrises and sunsets, with the view from Mohare Hill being particularly breathtaking as the first light of dawn casts a golden hue over the snow-capped peaks, creating a magical atmosphere that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
In addition to the stunning vistas, the Mohare Danda Trek is designed to be eco-friendly, allowing trekkers to connect with the pristine nature of Nepal while also experiencing the rich cultural heritage of its people. This less-traveled path offers a unique perspective on the Annapurna mountains, providing opportunities to witness famous peaks such as Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters), Tukuche Peak (6,920 meters), Nilgiri (7,061 meters), Annapurna South (7,219 meters), Himchuli (6,441 meters), Fishtail (6,993 meters), Lamjung Himal (6,931 meters), and Manaslu Himal (8,156 meters). The trek also takes you through the awe-inspiring Kali Gandaki canyon, where the thrilling sounds of nature and the stunning views will leave you in complete wonder.
This trek is particularly well-suited for those with limited time who still wish to explore the natural beauty of the Annapurna region. The route meanders through picturesque foothills, surrounded by lush landscapes and vibrant flora. Along the way, you will pass through charming villages and schools, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the local communities. The warm hospitality of the numerous tea houses along the trail will provide you with a comfortable resting place, where you can enjoy traditional Nepali meals and share stories with fellow trekkers.
Why the Mohare Danda Trek Should Be Your Next Adventure?
1. Mohare Danda – A Stunning Himalayan Panorama
Mohare Danda is a magnificent hilltop in the Annapurna region, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks. From this vantage point, trekkers are treated to spectacular vistas of the Annapurna Range, Dhaulagiri, and other surrounding mountains. The sunrise and sunset here are truly magical, casting golden hues over the snow-covered peaks. For many trekkers, Mohare Danda has become an ideal alternative to the more crowded Poon Hill for a sunrise experience.
Unlike Poon Hill, where trekkers must wake up hours before dawn and hike uphill in the dark to catch the first light, Mohare Danda provides a more relaxed approach. With community lodges positioned along the trail, you can simply wake up before sunrise, step outside, and enjoy the breathtaking view right from your lodge—a perfect spot to catch the early morning glow over the Himalayas.
2. Poon Hill – The Iconic Himalayan Viewpoint
Poon Hill has long been one of the most popular trekking destinations in Nepal, known for its panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. From this viewpoint, trekkers can also see Mt. Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), one of the region's most distinctive peaks, along with numerous other snow-capped mountains.
Though Poon Hill remains a top choice for trekkers, combining it with the Mohare Danda trek gives you the best of both worlds in just five days. After taking in the sunrise from Mohare Danda, you’ll head toward Ghorepani, with a detour to Poon Hill to admire the majestic views once again. This combination allows trekkers to experience the full beauty of the Annapurna region in a short, manageable trek.
3. A Short Yet Rewarding Trek
The Mohare Danda trek is perfect for those with limited time but still wanting to experience the magic of the Annapurna region. With duration of around 5 days, it offers a short but rewarding trek that packs in incredible views, cultural experiences, and a sense of adventure without the need for long, strenuous days on the trail. The trek is suitable for trekkers of moderate fitness levels and can be completed in a relatively short amount of time compared to other longer treks in the region. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking for a quick Himalayan adventure that doesn't compromise on scenic beauty or cultural immersion.
4. Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience
For many trekkers, the Mohare Danda trek offers a refreshing off-the-beaten-path experience. While it shares some similarities with other treks in the Annapurna region, it is far less commercialized and offers a more authentic, intimate experience with nature and local cultures.
The trail is quieter than the well-known routes like Ghorepani and Poon Hill, offering trekkers a chance to experience the tranquility and solitude of the mountains. The route passes through lush forests, terraced fields, and charming Magar villages, providing a deeper connection to the land and its people. This makes the Mohare Danda trek ideal for those seeking a more secluded, immersive adventure.
5. Incredible Flora and Fauna
The Mohare Danda trek traverses a rich variety of landscapes, from lush subtropical forests to expansive alpine meadows, each teeming with a diverse array of flora and fauna. The forests are rich in rhododendron trees, which bloom in vibrant colors during spring, creating a stunning visual display. The region is home to a wide variety of birds, butterflies, and wildlife, including the elusive Himalayan tahr and the vibrant Himalayan monal, Nepal's national bird. The variety of ecosystems along the trek provides trekkers with a chance to enjoy not only magnificent mountain views but also the rich biodiversity of the region.
6. A Perfect Blend of Adventure and Comfort
While the Mohare Danda trek is an adventure into the heart of the Himalayas, it also offers a level of comfort that makes it accessible to a wider range of trekkers. The well-maintained trail, combined with cozy community-run lodges offering delicious local meals and warm accommodations, ensures that you can enjoy the trek without the need for overly strenuous days or rugged camping. The combination of moderate trekking and comfortable lodging makes this route perfect for those seeking an adventure with a touch of comfort.
Itinerary
Start your day with a fulfilling breakfast at your hotel in Pokhara. Our guide will meet you, and then you'll drive for a few hours, leaving the Pokhara Valley and passing through lovely towns and rural areas. Enjoy stunning views of the Annapurna Himalaya range as you reach the small village of Galeshwor. If time allows, grab a light lunch in Galeshwor, a farming area by the Kaligandaki River, before starting your first hike. The trail ascends above the Kali Gandaki River, crossing a suspension bridge, and then steadily climbs through farmland terraces and forests for approximately 2-3 hours, leading you to Banskharka, your destination for the day.
Banskharka is a picturesque farming village renowned for its vibrant orange orchards. You'll stay overnight in a "Home Stay," run by local residents. After settling in, take advantage of your free time to explore the surroundings, visit the orange farm, the local school, and the orchard, and learn about the Magar culture and lifestyle.
Today's trek starts with a gentle climb through a rice and corn farm and a lush pine forest, offering views of snow-covered mountains and beautiful scenery. After a three-hour hike, you'll reach Danda Kateri, a quaint village offering breathtaking panoramic views. Here, you can enjoy lunch while taking in the magnificent Dhaulagiri Mountains and the southern part of Mount Annapurna. After lunch, you'll make your way to Nangi Village, where you'll stay overnight in a community lodge.
In Nangi, you can witness the efforts of social worker Mahabir Pun, who is known for his work in wireless Internet, and engage in local community activities. A visit to the community-run Himanchal High School is highly recommended, as it serves as a model for rural education. You can also check out a small paper factory where locals create handmade Nepali paper from native plants. Other attractions include the Nangi Barahi temple, the library, a modern computer lab, a medicinal plant garden, and a women's craft shop, along with various local income-generating projects.
Today, you will reach Mohare Danda, a beautiful high hill. After a tasty breakfast, we will begin our hike through lush greenery, tall rhododendrons, and pine trees. Make sure to bring some snacks and drinks, as there are no villages along the way. With a steady climb and some breaks, you will reach Mohare Danda in about 6 to 7 hours. Here, you can enjoy stunning views of the snow-covered mountains, including Mt. Machhapuchare (Fish Tail), Annapurna South, Tukuche, and Nilgiri. After watching the amazing sunset, we will stay overnight at an eco-community lodge in Mohare Danda.
Start your day with a stunning sunrise at Mohare Danda. The Himalayan peaks shine brightly in the morning light, showcasing the Annapurnas, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail, and more. After soaking in this breathtaking view, enjoy a filling breakfast at your lodge. Then, set off on a 6-hour trek to Ghorepani. The path features many ups and downs, winding through thick forests with no villages along the way. Before reaching Ghorepani, take a break at Poon Hill to admire the majestic mountains once more. When you arrive in Ghorepani, you’ll spend the night at a mountain lodge.
On the final day of your 5-day Mohare Danda Trek, enjoy a relaxed hike through lush rhododendron forests, along serene river streams, and past scenic Magar villages and terraced fields. After crossing a few suspension bridges, you will arrive in Hile after about 5 to 6 hours. The path is mostly flat with some downhill sections. From Hile, we will take a shared jeep for a scenic 2-hour drive to Pokhara. You will be dropped off at your hotel in Pokhara, concluding your Mohare Danda Hiking adventure.
Note: If you prefer to start and finish your trip in Kathmandu, we can arrange that. However, this will extend the itinerary by 2 days, and you will need to cover the extra costs.
What is included?
- Stay in home stays, lodges, or tea houses during the trek.
- Enjoy three meals daily: breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with hot tea or coffee.
- Transportation provided from Pokhara to Galeshwor and back from Hile to Pokhara.
- All necessary paperwork, including conservation entry permits and TIMS card, is included.
- A friendly and knowledgeable trekking guide fluent in English will accompany you.
- One porter will be provided for every two trekkers, carrying a maximum of 22 kg.
- An English-speaking licensed trekking guide, including their meals and insurance coverage.
- Sleeping bag, down jacket, and duffel bag are available if needed and returned after the trek.
- All government taxes, VAT, and service fees are included.
- In emergencies, helicopter service will be arranged, covered by your travel insurance.
What is not included?
- Visa fee for entering Nepal (available upon arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport, Kathmandu)
- Travel insurance(requires)
- Costs for accommodation and meals in Pokhara
- Personal expenses such as drinking water and beverages
- Charges for laundry, phone calls, hot showers, and internet
- Gratuities for guides and porters
- Any additional costs not listed in the expense breakdown.
- Additional fees for optional activities
- Souvenirs and personal shopping expenses
- Transportation costs not covered in the package
Route Map
FAQ's
While Nepali is the primary language, most staff members in lodges speak English, and some may even speak other languages. Communication should not be an issue for international tourists.
It’s advisable to be up-to-date on routine vaccinations, including hepatitis A and typhoid. Talk to your doctor about the vaccinations you need for Nepal.
The majority of international flights arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, which is located in Kathmandu. From this location, travelers can connect to Lukla to commence their trekking journey.
You typically need a valid passport, a completed visa application form, and a passport-sized photo. Payment can be made in cash or via card at the airport.
Yes, tourist visas are eligible for extension at the Department of Immigration located in Kathmandu. Ensure you have a valid reason and required documents for the extension.
If you wish to extend your stay in Nepal beyond your visa’s initial duration, you can do so by applying at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu. Extensions are available for a maximum of 30 days, and it’s recommended to apply before your current visa expires. Best Heritage Tour can help you with the extension process if required during your Australian Camp Trek.
Equipment
- Trekking Boots
- Sandals/Crocs
- High-quality down jacket and pant
- T-shirts and trousers
- Thermal wears
- Few pairs of undergarments
- Trekking pole
- A pair of gloves
- Woolen hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Toiletries
- Energy bars
Trip Info
Best Time to Trek the Mohare Danda: Seasons and Months
The best times to trek the Mohare Danda are during Nepal’s spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) seasons. These months offer clear skies, dry weather, and moderate temperatures, making for ideal trekking conditions. Spring is especially beautiful with blooming rhododendrons, while autumn provides crisp, clear views of the mountains after the monsoon rains.
While the trek is possible year-round, winter (December-February) brings cold temperatures and potential snowfall, and summer (June-August) is the monsoon season, with heavy rainfall and reduced visibility. For the most enjoyable experience with optimal weather and stunning landscapes, spring and autumn are the top choices for the Mohare Danda Trek.