Khumai Hill Trek

The Khumai Danda or Khumai Hill Trek is a less-traveled route that commences in the Baglung District, winding through charming villages and terraced landscapes before concluding at Kumai village.

Good To Know

  • Duration 3 days
  • Activity Trekking
  • Difficulty Type Easy
  • Best Season Spring and autumn
  • Max. Altitude 3700 m
  • Accommodation Deluxe Hotels & Tea House
  • Meal Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Trip Starts Pokhara

The Khumai Danda or Khumai Hill Trek is a less-traveled route that commences in the Baglung District, winding through charming villages and terraced landscapes before concluding at Kumai village. Though less frequented, the trails provide an unobstructed, breathtaking panorama of the Himalayan ranges, showcasing Annapurna, Fishtail, and more from the hilltops along the route. Part of the Great Machhapuchhre Trail (GMT), the Khumai Danda Trek is a shorter segment, offering an appealing alternative for those desiring to explore a new locale in Nepal. 

Renowned as one of the most picturesque viewpoints in the Annapurna Region, Khumai Danda Trek competes with the popular Mardi Himal Trek. While Mardi Himal remains a best-selling trek from Pokhara, its peak season bustle has led many to consider Khumai as a preferable option. The allure of stunning landscapes and the rich local culture captivates every trekker. Numerous trekking trails interconnect this region, with the Khumai Danda treetop walk standing out as a major highlights an elevated pathway through the trees linking two hills. The Khumai Danda Trek in Nepal is ideal for beginners or families due to its relatively easier route. Yet, it incorporates challenging sections that add an element of excitement for seasoned trekkers.

The Machhapuchhre Model Trek appeals to those seeking a gradual transition through diverse landscapes and changing surroundings. It serves as an excellent option for those in experience all in one place.

Khumai Hill Trek
Mt. Fishtail from Khumai Hill

Khumai Hill Trek Highlights 

1. Enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Machhapuchhre  (6947 m), Annapurna (8091 m), and Mardi (5587 m).

2. Experience sunrises and sunsets from Korchan (3682 m) 

3. Immerse yourself in the hospitality of the locals and discover their unique culture.

Best Time for Khumai Hill Trek

The best time to trek the Khumai Hill is during the spring and autumn seasons in Nepal. These periods offer the most favorable weather conditions, clear skies, and optimal temperatures for trekking.

Spring Season (March to May)

Spring is one of the most popular and best times to trek in the Annapurna  Region, which includes the Khumai Hill Trek. During this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is mild and pleasant, with lower elevations averaging 15°C to 25°C and higher elevations cooler.
  • Clear Views: The skies are typically clear, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Annapurna Range, Dhaulagiri Range, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain), Nilgiri, and Hiunchuli.
  • Flora: The rhododendron forests are in full bloom, creating a vibrant landscape with colorful flowers and lush greenery.
  • Crowds: The Khumai Hill trekking trail in the Annapurna Region is less crowded during this popular trekking season.

Autumn Season (September to November)

Autumn is another ideal time to trek the Khumai Hill. During this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is stable with clear skies, low humidity, and pleasant temperatures, similar to spring. Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C at lower elevations, while it is cooler at higher altitudes.
  • Clear Views: Autumn is known for its crisp air, providing excellent visibility of the surrounding peaks and landscapes.
  • Festivals: This season aligns with major Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar, offering cultural insights and opportunities to experience local traditions.
  • Crowds: Autumn in Nepal is the peak trekking season, yet Khumai Hill Trek is less crowded than other trails.

Off-Season Considerations

Spring and autumn are ideal for the Khumai Hill Trek, but some trekkers opt for off-season for a unique experience. However, these periods come with challenges:

  • Winter Season (December to February): Trekking in winter offers solitude and stunning snowy landscapes, but temperatures can drop significantly, especially at higher elevations. Trails might be icy, and some teahouses could be closed.
  • Monsoon Season (June to August): The monsoon brings heavy rain, making trails slippery and increasing the risk of landslides and leeches. The clouds and rain can also obstruct mountain views.

Spring and autumn are the best times for trekking Khumai Hill, offering great weather, views, and cultural experiences. During off-season trips, expect challenges, check weather forecasts, and trail conditions beforehand.

Itinerary

  • Accommodation
  • Max Altitude
  • Meal

On the initial days of your trek, you’ll embark on a around 30-minute drive from Pokhara to Hemja, the trek’s starting point. From Hemja, your journey commences with a leisurely walk through woodlands, quaint villages, and terraced fields, allowing you to appreciate the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills. The trek from Hemja to Hile Kharka typically spans about 6 hours and is considered a relatively easy hike. Along the route to Hile Kharka, you’ll encounter Ghachowk, renowned for offering the best views of the Himalayas. Take your time to soak in the breathtaking sights of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, and Lamjung Himal from Ghachok; there’s no rush, so savor the experience.

  • Accommodation
  • Max Altitude
  • Meal

The journey from Hile Kharka Dada resembles a trek through a dense jungle, with most of the trail winding through the forest. The route is serene but poses a slightly greater challenge compared to the preceding day’s hike, as the path narrows and is adorned with grassy hills. Despite encouraging a few difficulties, you’ll be greeted and rewarded by breathtaking panoramic views of Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna. Continuing past Samsur Deur adds to the adventure.

  • Accommodation
  • Max Altitude
  • Meal

The main attraction of the journey, Korchan Danda, is sure to amaze you with breathtaking views of the sunrise and the Himalayan mountains. Perched at an elevation of 3700 meters, the hill provides stunning panoramas of Mardi, Annapurna, and Machhapuchhre. Take the opportunity to enjoy some peaceful moments away from the busy atmosphere, surrounded by the beauty of the Himalayas, before returning to Pokhara.

Inclusions

What’s Included

  • Airport Transfers: Arrival and departure transfers to and from Pokhara.
  • Accommodation: Accommodation in standard hotels in Pokhara with breakfast included. Lodging in teahouses or trekking lodges during the trek.
  • Transportation: All necessary transportation during the trek including pick-up and drop-off from and to the hotel in Pokhara.
  • Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek. Meals are typically from a set menu at the teahouses.
  • Experienced Guide: An experienced trekking guide with a good knowledge of the local culture, history, and trekking routes.
  • Porters: Porters to carry your main luggage (up to 10-15 kg per person) during the trek, allowing you to hike with a lighter daypack.
  • Trekking Permits: All necessary trekking permits, including the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
  • First Aid: Basic first aid kit and emergency oxygen supply.

What’s Excluded

  • International Flights: The cost of international flights to and from Nepal is not included in the package.
  • Nepal Visa: The cost of obtaining a tourist visa for Nepal upon arrival at the airport is not included.
  • Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers trekking activities, medical emergencies, and evacuation.
  • Personal Expenses: Expenses such as additional snacks, beverages, souvenirs, and tips for guides and porters are not included.
  • Additional Activities: Any optional activities, such as paragliding or extra sightseeing in Pokhara, are not included.
  • Sleeping Bag and Trekking Gear: You may need to rent or purchase trekking gear and a sleeping bag if you do not have your own.
  • Extra Nights: Any additional nights of accommodation in Pokhara and outside the trek itinerary are not included.
  • Extra Costs Due to Delays: Costs incurred due to flight delays, road closures, or other unforeseen circumstances are not covered.
  • Personal Medications: Any personal medications or medical expenses are not included.

FAQs

The Khumai Hill Trek typically takes 3-4 days, depending on the route you have chosen and individual pace. It covers approximately 50 km of challenging yet rewarding paths through forests, valleys, and mountain ridges.

The optimal time for the Khumai Hill Trek is during the Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is mild, offering clear skies and pleasant temperatures. These periods provide ideal conditions for hiking and sightseeing.

The optimal time for the Khumai Hill Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is mild, offering clear skies and pleasant temperatures. These periods provide ideal conditions for hiking and sightseeing.

While prior hiking experience is not necessary, a reasonable level of physical fitness is enough to tackle the varying terrains and altitude changes.