Khorpa Danda Trek Annapurna Dhaulagiri Community Trek

The Khorpa Danda Trek is a unique and adventurous journey located in the beautiful Annapurna region. It was only recognized as a teahouse trek around three years ago, but it has become popular for good reason. This trek offers a moderate challenge that can be enjoyed by anyone in good physical condition. Witness the beautifully combined lifestyle of various ethnic groups like Magar, Gurung, Chhetri, and Dalit that cannot be found anywhere else. Take advantage of the opportunity to experience Nepali culture and cuisine up close with homestay options in addition to teahouses.

Starting from Kathmandu, this journey takes you through picturesque destinations like Pokhara, Ghandruk, and Tatopani, and concludes back in Kathmandu. At an altitude of 4727 meters, Khayer Lake is the highest point reached during the trek. Enjoy stunning sunrise and sunset views from Poon Hill, panoramic views of the Annapurna Ranges, the Gurung Museum, dense forests, and the charming city of Pokhara. Every day of the trip is filled with intense scenic beauty ranging from majestic mountains to lush forests. With its culturally and naturally rich surroundings, the Khorpa Danda Trek is the perfect escape from your busy schedule.

Needless to say, Destination Unlimited, we prioritize your safety and satisfaction on all our trekking and adventure trips. We believe in prioritizing your safety and satisfaction on all our trips, which is why our licensed guides have years of experience and are dedicated to taking you on the most unique and unforgettable journeys. From hidden trails to natural wonders, we will make sure you see everything Nepal has to offer, while keeping your comfort and safety at the forefront of everything we do. Trust us to take you on the adventure of a lifetime, with memories that will last forever. Join us at Destination Unlimited and let us show you the beauty of Nepal.

Trip Highlights of Khorpa Danda Trek Annapurna Dhaulagiri Community Trek

Khorpa Danda Trek is a lesser-known but spectacular trekking route in Nepal, offering a unique experience away from the more crowded trails. Here are the key highlights of the Khorpa Danda Trek:

Scenic Beauty

Panoramic Views: Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan range, including peaks like Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain).
Lush Landscapes: Trek through diverse landscapes, from terraced fields and dense forests to alpine meadows and high ridges.

Cultural Experience

Traditional Villages: Visit traditional villages inhabited by various ethnic groups, including Gurung and Magar communities, and experience their unique culture and hospitality.
Local Lifestyle: Witness the daily lives of local people, their farming practices, and traditional crafts.

Flora and Fauna

Biodiversity: Trek through areas rich in biodiversity, including rhododendron forests, bamboo groves, and a variety of alpine flora.
Wildlife: Encounter diverse wildlife, such as pheasants, langur monkeys, and if lucky, you might spot a red panda.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure

Less Crowded: Enjoy a tranquil trekking experience on a less crowded route, providing a sense of solitude and connection with nature.
Untouched Trails: Explore pristine trails that offer a raw and authentic trekking experience.

Cultural Sites

Monasteries and Temples: Visit ancient monasteries and temples, gaining insights into the spiritual life of the local communities.
Cultural Festivals: If your trek coincides with local festivals, experience vibrant celebrations and traditional rituals.

Majestic Sunrise and Sunset

Viewpoints: Khorpa Danda offers exceptional viewpoints for watching breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over the Himalayan peaks.

Adventure and Challenge

Trekking Routes: The trek includes a mix of moderate and challenging sections, making it suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness.
Ridge Walks: Enjoy exhilarating walks along high ridges with sweeping views on either side.

Authentic Nepali Experience

Homestays and Teahouses: Stay in local homestays and teahouses, offering an opportunity to engage closely with the local culture and cuisine.
Local Cuisine: Savor traditional Nepali food, including dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momos (dumplings), and local dairy products.

Stunning Waterfalls and Rivers

Water Features: Pass by beautiful waterfalls, rivers, and streams that add to the scenic beauty of the trek.

Photography Opportunities

Picturesque Scenery: The diverse landscapes, cultural sites, and mountain vistas provide endless opportunities for photography enthusiasts.

The Khorpa Danda Trek is perfect for those looking to explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of Nepal in a tranquil and less commercialized setting. This trek promises an unforgettable adventure, blending scenic beauty, cultural immersion, and the thrill of trekking in the Himalayas.

Outline Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu airport, pick up and transfer to the Hotel in Kathmandu (1350m)
Day 02: Half day sightseeing and trekking preparation day.
Day 03: Drive or fly to Pokhara (800m) from Kathmandu.
Day 04: Drive to Kande and trek to Pitam Deurali (2100m)
Day 05: Trek to Ghandruk (1940m)
Day 06: Trek to Tadapani (2610m)
Day 07: Trek to Dobato (3350m)
Day 08: Trek to Chistibung (3000m)
Day 09: Trek to Khorpa Danda (3640m)
Day 10: Excursion Khayer Lake (4727m)
Day 11: Trek to Narchyang Village 1200m
Day 12: Trek to Tatopani (1190m)
Day 13: Drive to Pokhara. Overnight in Pokhara
Day 14: Drive to Kathmandu
Day 15: Departure

Detail Itinerary

Day 01 :Arrival at Kathmandu airport, pick up and transfer to the Hotel in Kathmandu (1350m) Upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, you are received by our company’s employee and safely transferred to your designated hotel. You can take rest for the day and enjoy your evening dinner of Nepali style.
Day 02 :Half day sightseeing and trekking preparation day. Kathmandu has many cultural and historical heritage sites, also included in UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Ones you’ll be visiting with our trained guide are Pashupatinath Temple (sacred Hindu Temple), Swayambhunath Stupa (the monkey temple), Boudhanath Stupa and Durbar Square.
Day 03 :Drive or fly to Pokhara (800m) from Kathmandu. You can choose to either take average 6 hours’ drive to Pokhara or catch a 25 minutes flight from Kathmandu. Pokhara is one of the best tourist cities of Nepal which has Phewa Lake, Machhapuchhre (fishtail) Mountain, Davis Fall, Mahendra Cave and many more cool spots to visit.
Day 04 :Drive to Kande and trek to Pitam Deurali (2100m) We can drive from Pokhara to Kande or either catch a local/tourist bus which takes about 1.5 hours. Later, we trek for 2.5 hours to Pitam Deurali at an elevation of 2100m.
Day 05 :Trek to Ghandruk (1940m) From Pitam Deurali, we trek at an altitude of 1940m reaching Ghandruk. Beautiful local Gurung village, Ghandruk offers the amazing view of mountains and overnight stay to observe the typical lifestyle of indigenous people of the region.
Day 06 :Trek to Tadapani (2610m) We move forward to Tadapani at an altitude of 2610m from Ghandruk. Walking through dense forests of oak and rhododendron can be quite fascinating because of the diversity of flora and fauna in this area.
Day 07 :Trek to Dobato (3350m) It takes us about 5 to 6 hours to complete this trek from Tadapani to Dobato at an altitude of 3350m. During a clear day, you can enjoy the snow-capped peaks in the background especially beautiful with rhododendron in full bloom in April.
Day 08 :Trek to Chistibung (3000m) We head on from Dobato to Chistibung at an elevation of 3000m trekking for 4 hours. Taking in the view of Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Ranges, we walk through forests passing through pasture grounds of yaks and buffalos.
Day 09 :Trek to Khorpa Danda (3640m) From Chistibung to Khorpa Danda at 3640m, we trek for 3 hours. The uphill and steep trail continues with mountain ranges at the horizon and terraced fields below us.
Day 10 :Excursion Khayer Lake (4727m) This is our excursion day at Khayer Lake at height of 4727m. It takes us about 5 hours to reach holy fresh water Khayer Lake. Khayer Barahi Temple can be explored and lookout for different types of birds.
Day 11 :Trek to Narchyang Village 1200m We trek downhill from Khorpa Danda to Narchyang Village at an altitude of 1200m. Unlike Ghandruk, Narchyang Village is known for Magar lifestyle.
Day 12 :Trek to Tatopani (1190m) Then, we go further downhill from Narchyang Village to Tatopani. You can also enjoy Narchyang village’s waterfall and Kali Gandaki River during the trek. At the height of 1190m, Tatopani is said to have natural hot springs with healing properties.
Day 13 :Drive to Pokhara. Overnight in Pokhara As we reach Pokhara, boating at Phewa Lake and visiting Tal Barahi Temple (in the middle of the lake) is a relaxing option. You can enjoy the nightlife of Pokhara which includes walking along the Lakeside, cafes, and bars.
Day 14 :Drive to Kathmandu Though our drive is supposed to take around 6 hours from Pokhara to Kathmandu, it sometimes might take bit longer due to road maintenance. You can see small local markets and beautiful hills and Trishuli River along your way.
Day 15 :Departure We accompany you to the airport as it is your time to bid goodbye to Nepal for this time. Any future trip to Nepal is always welcome and destination unlimited will be happy to serve you again.

Cost Includes

Airport pick-up and drop-off (private van)
Drop to Nayapul and Pick up from Nayapul by Private Van
Hotel in Pokhara and Kathmandu. Category 2-3 star
Farewell Dinner by Company
Trekking Accommodation, Twin Sharing in Basic Tea-house
English-speaking guides/ Who has excellent knowledge.
Porters for 2 guest one porter
All meals( Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) with tea and coffee
Fresh Fruits after dinner every evening.
Transportation to and from the trail head
All necessary documents and permits for trekking
Trekking equipment including sleeping bags
Staff insurance, medication and equipment
All Govt. and Local Taxes, First Aid Kit
Trekking Certificate by Destination Unlimited.

Cost Excludes

International airfares, Kathmandu sightseeing and entrance fees
Travel/trekking insurance/ Nepal entry visa fees
Mountain rescue charges or insurance
Bottled drinks on trek (cold and alcoholic) and hot drinks
Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu and Pokhara
Additional food or drink on trek in addition to three standard meals
Personal expenses, Emergency Expenses, road blocked, snakes, desert.etc
Which is not mention in email
Tips(Tipping are expected)

1. What is the Khorpa Danda Trek?

The Khorpa Danda Trek is a lesser-known trekking route in Nepal, offering scenic views of the Himalayas, cultural immersion, and a tranquil trekking experience away from the crowded trails.

2. Who can trek Khorpa Danda?

The trek is suitable for trekkers with a moderate level of fitness. It involves walking through varied terrain, including terraced fields, forests, and ridges. Previous trekking experience is beneficial but not mandatory.

3. How difficult is the trek?

The trek is moderately challenging. It includes a mix of easy and steep ascents and descents. Good physical fitness and the ability to walk for several hours a day are required.

4. What is the best time to trek Khorpa Danda?

The best times to trek are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These periods offer stable weather, clear skies, and pleasant temperatures.

5. How long does the trek take?

The duration of the Khorpa Danda Trek can vary depending on the starting and ending points, but it typically takes around 7 to 10 days.

6. What permits are required for the trek?

Trekkers need to obtain a Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card and possibly a local area permit, depending on the specific region of the trek.

7. What equipment is needed for the trek?

Essential gear includes:

Clothing: Layered clothing, waterproof jacket and pants, warm hat, gloves.
Footwear: Sturdy trekking boots.
Backpack: A daypack for essentials and a larger backpack for other gear.
Sleeping Bag: Suitable for cold weather.
Personal Items: First aid kit, water purification tablets, sunscreen, snacks.

8. Is acclimatization necessary?

While the trek does not reach extremely high altitudes, it is still important to acclimatize properly. Follow the itinerary’s acclimatization schedule and be aware of altitude sickness symptoms.

9. What kind of accommodation is available?

Accommodation is typically in local teahouses or homestays, offering basic but comfortable lodging and a chance to experience local hospitality.

10. Do I need a guide or can I trek independently?

While it is possible to trek independently, hiring a local guide or joining a guided group is recommended for safety, local knowledge, and cultural insights.

11. What are the potential risks and challenges?

Altitude Sickness: Acclimatization and monitoring symptoms are crucial.
Weather Conditions: Rapid changes in weather can occur; be prepared for rain and cold temperatures.
Trail Conditions: Some sections may be steep or uneven; proper footwear is essential.

12. How do I prepare for the trek?

Preparation should include:

Physical Training: Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and endurance workouts.
Gear Familiarity: Practice using your gear before the trek.
Research: Familiarize yourself with the route, cultural norms, and local conditions.

13. What is the cost of trekking Khorpa Danda?

The cost can vary based on factors such as the duration of the trek, whether you hire a guide, and your accommodation choices. A rough estimate is $30-$50 per day, covering permits, accommodation, food, and guide services.

14. Is travel insurance necessary?

Yes, comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking and emergency evacuation is highly recommended.

15. What should I pack?

A detailed packing list typically includes:

Clothing: Layered clothing, thermal wear, waterproof jacket and pants.
Footwear: Trekking boots, comfortable shoes for evenings.
Trekking Gear: Backpack, trekking poles, sleeping bag.
Personal Items: First aid kit, water purification tablets, snacks, toiletries.

16. What type of food is available?

Local teahouses and lodges offer a variety of meals, including traditional Nepali dishes like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momos (dumplings), and other regional foods. Vegetarian options are widely available.

17. How can I communicate during the trek?

While connectivity may be limited, some villages offer Wi-Fi and cellular services. It’s advisable to inform family and friends about the expected lack of communication during the trek.

The Khorpa Danda Trek offers a unique and enriching experience, blending natural beauty, cultural immersion, and adventure. Proper preparation and awareness of the trek's demands will help ensure a safe and memorable journey.