The Mohare Danda Trek is a 6-day, easy-to-moderate trek in Nepal’s Annapurna Conservation Area, offering a less crowded alternative to popular routes like Poon Hill or Annapurna Base Camp. Covering approximately 25–30km, it reaches a maximum altitude of 3,313m at Mohare Danda, a scenic hill station renowned for its panoramic views of Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), Nilgiri (7,061m), and Tukuche Peak (6,920m). Initiated in 2010 by Mahabir Pun to promote sustainable tourism, this eco-community trek supports local Magar and Gurung villages through community-run lodges and homestays.
Starting from Pokhara, the trek involves a 3–4-hour drive to Galeshwor, followed by trails through lush rhododendron, oak, and bamboo forests, terraced fields, and vibrant villages like Banskharka and Nangi. Trekkers experience magical sunrises and sunsets, diverse flora and fauna (including rhesus monkeys and langurs), and cultural immersion with the Magar people, known for their hospitality and traditional practices. With 5–7 hours of daily walking, the trek is ideal for beginners, families, or those seeking a short, culturally rich Himalayan adventure. Its low altitude minimizes altitude sickness risks, and the eco-conscious approach ensures minimal environmental impact.
Organized by Hairy Yak Adventures, this trek emphasizes sustainable tourism and community engagement. From Pokhara, trekkers drive to Galeshwor and hike through scenic villages, staying in eco-lodges that fund local schools and healthcare via wireless internet initiatives pioneered by Mahabir Pun. The itinerary includes visits to organic farms, cultural interactions, and optional side trips to viewpoints like Poon Hill (3,210m). The trek concludes with a drive back to Pokhara, with options to extend stays for Pokhara’s lakeside or Kathmandu’s UNESCO sites. Less commercialized than other Annapurna treks, it offers tranquility, authentic cuisine (dal bhat, momos), and stunning Himalayan vistas.
Breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, and Tukuche from Mohare Danda (3,313m).
Stay in eco-community lodges and homestays, supporting Magar and Gurung communities.
Trek through rhododendron, oak, and bamboo forests, with vibrant spring blooms.
Experience Magar culture, including traditional dances and organic local cuisine.
Visit Nangi village, known for its wireless internet and organic farm school.
Enjoy serene, less-crowded trails compared to Poon Hill or Annapurna Base Camp.
Spot wildlife like rhesus monkeys, langurs, and diverse bird species.
Scenic 3–4-hour drive from Pokhara to Galeshwor along the Kali Gandaki River.
Optional Poon Hill sunrise hike for additional Himalayan views.
Eco-conscious trekking with clean trails and sustainable practices.
This trek is perfect for beginners, families, or travelers with limited time, requiring moderate fitness for 5–7 hours of daily walking. The trails feature gentle ascents, stone steps, and forest paths, with a maximum altitude of 3,313m posing minimal altitude sickness risk. Community lodges offer basic but cozy accommodations, ideal for those comfortable with rustic settings. The trek’s focus on eco-tourism and Magar culture appeals to those seeking a peaceful, sustainable Himalayan experience over a commercialized adventure.
Preparation: Light cardio or hiking (2–4 weeks prior) prepares you for daily walks.
Footwear: Use broken-in trekking shoes; trekking poles aid steep sections.
Packing: Pack layered clothing, a sleeping bag liner, a 15–20L daypack, and water purification tablets.
Hydration: Drink 2–3 liters daily; water filtration is advised as bottled water is scarce.
Altitude: Low AMS risk at 3,313m; stay hydrated and rest if needed.
Cash: Carry Nepalese rupees (NPR); no ATMs after Pokhara.
Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi at Nangi and Mohare Danda lodges; limited elsewhere.
Power: Bring a power bank; charging costs ~$1–$2 at lodges.
Culture: Respect Magar customs, ask before photographing, and support local lodges.
Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card required.
The trek begins with a 6–7-hour bus ride or 25-minute flight (optional, extra cost) from Kathmandu to Pokhara (200km), followed by a 3–4-hour drive to Galeshwor (1170m) via Beni. The trail starts in Galeshwor and ends in Hile, with a 2–3-hour drive back to Pokhara. Book transport early during peak seasons (March–May, September–November). Flights to Pokhara offer Himalayan views but are weather-dependent, so include 1–2 buffer days for flexibility.
Package Cost (6 Days, with Hairy Yak Adventures): Starting from ~$500 per person (includes Pokhara-Galeshwor-Pokhara transport, 3-star hotel in Pokhara, community lodge/guesthouse accommodation, meals during trek, guide, porter, ACAP, and TIMS card)
Permits:
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): ~$30 per person.
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card: ~$10 (group trekkers) or ~$20 (independent trekkers).
Nepal Visa: $30 (15 days), $50 (30 days), or $125 (90 days).
Meals in Pokhara: ~$5–$10 per meal.
Tips for guides/porters: ~$3–$5 per day (optional but expected).
Personal expenses (hot showers, charging, snacks): ~$20–$50.
Travel insurance (mandatory, covering trekking up to 3,500m): ~$50–$150.
Optional Kathmandu-Pokhara flight: ~$100–$150 one way.
Total Estimated Cost (per person): ~$600–$800 (assuming $500 package; varies with group size and season).
Contact – Hairy Yak Adventures
Phone: +977-9801214198
Email: info@hairyyakadventures.com
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are ideal, offering clear skies, mild weather, and vibrant scenery. March–May features blooming rhododendrons, while September–November provides crisp mountain views. Winter (December–February) is colder but quieter, with possible snow at higher altitudes. Monsoon season (June–August) is wet, with risks of landslides and leeches.
Moderate to challenging, with 6–9-hour days and high passes (5,306m–5,416m). Suitable for fit trekkers with some experience; acclimatization days reduce altitude sickness risks.
Yes, since April 2023, a licensed guide is required for restricted areas like Nar Phu. A minimum of two trekkers is needed for permits.
ACAP (~$30), TIMS (~$10–$20), and RAP ($100/week Sept–Nov, $75/week Dec–Aug, plus $10–$15/day thereafter). Agencies handle permits.
Basic teahouses and homestays offer twin beds, shared bathrooms, and Nepali meals (dal bhat, momos). Nar Phedi may involve a monastery stay. Wi-Fi and hot showers cost ~$2–$5.