Khumai Dada Trek is a hidden gem in the Annapurna region, offering stunning views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna, and Mardi Himal. This short yet adventurous trek takes you through dense rhododendron forests, traditional villages, and breathtaking ridges. The trek remains less crowded, making it perfect for those seeking a peaceful and off-the-beaten-path experience. With its moderate difficulty, it’s suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers alike.
Destination
Khumai Dada
Duration
7 days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Start/ End
Kathmandu-kathmandu
Best Season
Spring (April-May) and Autumn (October-November)
Max People
10-15 people
Transportation
Private Jeep / Local Bus
Activities
Trekking/Tour/Hiking
Khumai Dada Trek offers stunning sunrise and sunset views over Annapurna and Machhapuchhre. It is an ideal trek for those looking for a quick escape into the mountains with an unforgettable experience.
Khumai Dada Trek Facts
Title
Information
Trek Name
Khumai Dada Trek
Travel Budget
$300 - $500 per person
Standard Budget
$600 - $900 per person
Difficulty
Moderate
Best Time
Spring(March-May) and Autumn(September-November)
Permits
ACAP & TIMS ($30 - $50)
Accommodation
Tea Houses, Lodges, and Camping
Best ViewPoints
Khumai Danda, Korcha Hill
Day Wise
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
Arrival: Pick-up from Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) and transfer to a hotel in Thamel.
Trek Briefing: Briefing on the trek itinerary, followed by last-minute gear shopping.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Full-Day Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour
Sightseeing: Visit iconic sites like Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.
Final Preparations: Final trek preparations, including a visit to local gear shops if needed.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Drive/ fly to Pokhara (822m)
Scenic Drive: Depart from Kathmandu to Pokhara by road, passing through beautiful villages, rivers, and hills.
You can also fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara, which takes 30 minutes in flight.
Arrival in Pokhara: Enjoy the lakeside beauty of Pokhara, and explore the town in your free time.
Overnight: Stay overnight in Pokhara.
Day 4: Drive to Ghachowk – Trek to Hile Kharka (2,200m)
Drive: Depart from Pokhara to Ghachowk (~2 hours).
Trek: Begin your trek by ascending through forests for ~5–6 hours, heading towards Hile Kharka, a peaceful area at 2,200m.
Overnight: Stay in a teahouse or tent at Hile Kharka.
Day 5: Hile Kharka → Khumai Danda (3,245m)
Trek: Begin the day trekking through rhododendron forests and along ridges (~5 hours), with stunning mountain views.
Arrival in Khumai Danda: Reach Khumai Danda, known for panoramic views of Machhapuchhre, Mardi Himal, and Annapurna.
Sunset Views: Enjoy the breathtaking sunset view over the Himalayas.
Overnight: Overnight at a basic teahouse or tented camp.
Day 6: Khumai Danda → Saitkhatta → Ghachowk → Pokhara
Sunrise: Wake up early for a beautiful sunrise view from Khumai Danda.
Trek: Trek back, descending via Saitkhatta (~5–6 hours).
Drive: After reaching Ghachowk, take a 2-hour drive back to Pokhara.
Relax: Enjoy an afternoon of relaxation in Pokhara.
Overnight: Stay overnight in Pokhara.
Day 7: Drive or Flight Back to Kathmandu
Drive/Flight: Drive back(6-7 hours) or 25 mins flight to Kathmandu .
Farewell Dinner: Celebrate your trek with a farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
Overnight: Stay overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 8: Departure from Kathmandu
Transfer: Drop-off at Kathmandu Airport (TIA) for your departure flight.
Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up & drop service by private car.
Meals on full board during the trekking(Breakfast, lunch,dinner,soup,Tea or coffee) .
Free Trekking map.
An experienced Government licensed holder guide.
Trekking porter /Sherpa who will carry your bags during the trekking.
Ground transportation.
All necessary paper works and Trekking entry permits.
Unforeseen delay and emergency expenses.
Personal accident insurance or Helicopter rescue
Any kind of Alcoholic, hot and cold drinks
All kind of Personal Expenses
Any others expenses which are not mentioned on Price Includes section
Tips, gifts, souvenirs
Helicopter return from Base Camp.
Private room & meals.
Extra food/snacks.
Why Choose Khumai Dada Trek ?
Khumai Dada remains a hidden gem with fewer trekkers, offering a peaceful and immersive journey through untouched landscapes and pristine nature.
The trek provides close-up views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, and Mardi Himal, making it a perfect alternative to more crowded routes in the Annapurna region.
Perfect for trekkers of all levels with moderate difficulty.
With just 3 to 5 days of trekking, it is an excellent option for those with limited time but seeking a fulfilling Himalayan experience.
The trek passes through traditional Gurung settlements, allowing you to experience authentic Nepalese culture, warm hospitality, and local cuisine.
The trail is moderate, with some steep ascents but no technical climbing, making it suitable for bothbeginners and experienced hikers.
The trail takes you through rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and rugged ridges, offering opportunities to spot rare birds and Himalayan wildlife.
With low permit costs, budget-friendly accommodation, and short travel distances, this trek is an economical yet breathtaking Himalayan adventure.
Best Time For Khumai Dada Trek
Spring (March-May) weather is mild with longer daylight hours, making it ideal for trekking. The vibrant landscapes and refreshing mountain air enhance the overall experience.
Autumn (September-November) season brings crisp, dust-free air with golden-hued forests, offering unmatched visibility of the Himalayan peaks and a perfect atmosphere for photography.
In winter (December-February) the trail is serene with snow-covered paths, giving a raw Himalayan experience, making winter season not convenient for trekking.
In monsoon (June-August) season there are frequent rain showers making trails slippery, and risky for trekking.
Autumn (Sept-Nov): With stable weather and crisp air, this season offers the best visibility of the Himalayas. The pleasant temperatures and dry trails make it the most popular time for trekking.
Cost and Planning Facts for Khumai Dada Trek
Budget: The trek is affordable, costing $150–$300 per person, including permits, transportation, food, and accommodation, making it an excellent choice for budget travelers.
Accommodation: Basic teahouses and homestays cost around $5–$10 per night, offering simple bedding and meals while providing a cozy, authentic Himalayan experience.
Food/Meal: Meals range from $5–$10 per meal, with traditional Nepali dishes like Dal Bhat, noodles, and chapati, ensuring energy-rich and freshly prepared food.
Transportation: A private jeep costs $80–$120, while public transport costs $5–$10 per person, with travel times varying based on road conditions.
Guide/Porter: Hiring a guide costs around $25–$30 per day, while a porter costs $15–$20 per day, helping with navigation, safety, and carrying heavy loads.
Permits: No special trekking permits are required, but a TIMS card ($20 per person) is recommended for safety and proper trekking documentation.
Packing Tips for Khumai Dada Trek
Head
Warm hat & cap.
Sunglasses with UV protection.
Headlight.
Face Mask or Balaclava
Footwear
Trekking shoes
Hiking boots
Warm Hiking socks
Gaiters
Body
Base Layers
Waterproof jacket
Thermal Gloves
Trekking Trousers and Shorts
Personal Hygiene Items
Fleece Jacket
Thermal Shirts and Pants
Essentials/ Equipments
Sleeping bag
First aid kit
Trekking poles & Raincoat
Water Bottles and Hydration Bladder
High-energy snacks
Maps & Compass/GPS
Khumai Dada Trek By Mardi Himal Treks and Expedition
Mardi Himal Treks and Expedition offers a well-organized, guided Khumai Dada trek, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience. They handle all logistics, including permits, accommodation, and meals, allowing you to focus on enjoying the breathtaking scenery. With experienced guides and excellent service, they guarantee a safe and seamless trek through this hidden gem of the Annapurna region.
The trek is moderate, with some steep climbs but manageable for beginners. It requires a basic fitness level and 4-7 hours of trekking per day.
2. How long does the Khumai Dada Trek take?
The trek usually takes 3 to 5 days, depending on the route and trekking pace. A well-planned itinerary ensures proper acclimatization and a comfortable experience.
3. Do I need a guide for the Khumai Dada Trek?
A guide is not mandatory, but hiring one ensures a safer and more informative experience. The trail is relatively new, so navigation might be challenging for first-timers.
4. Why is Khumai Dada Famous?
Khumai Dada is famous for its stunning close-up views of Machhapuchhre, peaceful off-the-beaten-path trails, rich Gurung culture, diverse landscapes, budget-friendly trekking costs, and easy accessibility from Pokhara.
5. Is there snowfall in Khumai Dada?
Yes, Khumai Dada experiences snowfall during winter (December–February) when temperatures drop. The trails and surrounding landscapes get covered in snow, creating a breathtaking yet challenging trekking experience.
5. What is the Height of Khumai Dada?
Khumai Dada is situated at an altitude of 3,245 meters (10,646 feet) above sea level, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna mountain range.
Want to Trek Khumai Dada with Mardi Himal Treks & Expedition?