Mohare Danda Trek- 7 Days
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Mohare Danda Trek- 7 Days

Key Infomation

  • Duration:7 Days
  • Trip GradeModerate
  • DestinationTIA Kathmandu
  • Max Altitude3,330 m
  • ActivityTrekking
  • Group SizeAny
Sustainable Trek Package
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  • No booking or Credit Card Fee
  • Free Cancellation
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Highlights of Mohare Danda Trek

  • Scenic drive from Pokhara to Galeshwor, cross the Kali Gandaki River suspension bridge, and visit orange orchards and Magar villages
  • Experience the community-owned and operated lodges used to support local development and sustainable tourism
  • Engage in authentic cultural experiences in Gurung and Magar villages such as Galeshwor, Banskharka, and Naangi
  • Stunning views of the sunrise and sunset over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges from Mohare Danda, which is a quieter alternative to Poon Hill
  • Visit Ghorepani, a classic Himalayan village surrounded by rhododendron forests
  • Explore Ghandruk village, a Gurung historic village where you can engage with cultural programs, visit a Gurung Cultural Museum, and admire the Himalayan peaks in the background
  • Hike through beautiful ridgelines, alpine meadows, and terraced farmland with expansive views of the mountains
  • Enjoy organic produce and traditional Magar and Gurung cuisine
  • Uncrowded, peaceful hiking trails are ideal for exploring a calm and beautiful natural landscape

Major Highlights of Mohare Danda Trek 

Mohare Danda

Mohare Danda is the highest point of the Mohare Danda Trek at 3,300 meters, located on a ridge between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Trekkers reach this point after hiking through rhododendron forests and remote villages. Once you reach the top of Mohare Danda, you will have a wide, clear sight of the prominent Himalayan peaks like Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). It is a popular viewpoint in Nepal to watch sunrise and sunset over these peaks.

The Mohare Danda trekking route was developed as a community-based eco-tourism project in which all of the trek's overnight lodgings are at community-run lodges; therefore, the benefits of tourism remain within the community. Each of the lodges utilizes solar energy and serves food that has been sourced locally, mitigating their environmental impact. Waste management and low-impact practices have been adopted along the entire Mohare Danda trek route.

This route eases pressure on the very popular Ghorepani Poon Hill trek and promotes environmental sustainability and a better lifestyle for home stay operators from the local community in Nepal. Mohare Danda trek is an excellent example of a sustainable trekking route in Nepal.

Ghandruk Village

Ghandruk is a typical Gurung village located at an altitude of about 1,940 meters in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Ghandruk is one of the largest, most famous, and frequently trekked villages in the area. The village is located on terraced hills and has stone-paved roads, slate-roofed houses, and well-arranged courtyards. Ghandruk has retained its Gurung culture and customs. Tourists commonly visit the Gurung Cultural Museum, which displays traditional tools of the trade, clothes, and household items.

Ghandruk is a great place for views of the Himalayan ranges, especially Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). On clear days, these mountains will be most visible in the early mornings or early evenings. In addition to the stunning mountain landscapes, the surrounding landscape of terraced fields, forests, and hills makes Ghandruk an attractive place to visit, with a rich cultural heritage. Ghandruk is also a popular stopping point for trekkers, as it is part of many routes in the Annapurna region.

The Mohare Danda Trek is one of the shortest and most rewarding trekking routes in the Annapurna Region, perfect for those seeking a quiet and community-focused alternative to the popular Ghorepani-Poonhill Trek. Also known as the Mohare Danda Community Lodge Trek, this lesser-known trekking route takes trekkers through the traditional villages, rhododendron forests, and hilltops with panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. It is one of the best places to explore in the Annapurna region in a short time, in contrast to the most popular trekking routes like the Annapurna Circuit, Annapurna Base Camp, or the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek.

This community-based trek in the Annapurna Region takes you through traditional Magar and Gurung villages, dense rhododendron forests, and scenic ridgelines. Along the way, you’ll stay in community-run lodges where your stay directly contributes to the village development and the income of the local community. Locals are trained to host the trekkers, cook fresh meals, and manage lodges in a way that promotes eco-friendly trekking in Nepal and supports low-impact tourism.

The route was developed and introduced in 2010 by Mahabir Pun, a social entrepreneur and communication pioneer, with the goal of promoting sustainable tourism in Nepal and bringing economic opportunities to the local people. He named the route "Homestay Path Eco Communities Lodges" or “Community Eco Lodge Trek”, which, since its establishment, has been run by local communities. This way of doing tourism allows for profits to stay in the villages, helping them develop their infrastructure, education, and healthcare access in remote areas.

This trekking trail is relatively easy and takes only 7 to 8 days to complete, covering many of the prominent highlights of the Annapurna region. It remains one of the best budget-friendly and beginner-friendly treks in Nepal, suitable for all age groups, from families with children to elderly hikers.

This 7-day Mohare Danda Trek itinerary is planned as a short trek starting from Pokhara, and begins with a drive from Pokhara to Galeshwor for about three to four hours. The trek continues from Galeshwor along village trails, forests, and gradually up to Banskharka, a small village known for orange farming. The second day continues with slow and steady climbing through rhododendron forests and scattered local villages towards Naangi. In this Magar village, community-based tourism plays a vital role in the local economy.

The third day involves a steady climb up to Mohare Danda (3,300m), the highest part of the trek. The varied trails of lower elevation welcome us into lush forests, and the views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges on clear days are very impressive. The fourth day will take us to Ghorepani from Mohare Danda descent. This walk allows you a scenic ridge before we reach the main route connected with the very popular and hikeable Poon Hill trail.

From Ghorepani, you will trek to Tadapani on day five. The trail continues through thick forest trails with rhododendrons and moss-covered trees. The following day, the trail will descend to Ghandruk, a Gurung village with traditional stone houses and wonderful views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre. On the last day of the trek, you will have a short downhill walk to the road, where you will find transport back to Pokhara.

If you are looking for a sustainable trek in Nepal with less crowded trails and offers great views and cultural experiences, the Mohare Danda trekking route is a great option. Moreover, it is also beginner-friendly and has a very low risk of altitude sickness.

This sustainable trek package includes all permits, full accommodation in Mohare Danda community lodges, meals, a qualified guide, local transport, etc. The Mohare Danda trekking remains economical while providing a truly wonderful cultural and natural experience. If you are looking for a slightly different route or pace, the Footprint Adventure family will be happy to customize the itinerary to suit your preferences and needs.

Footprint Adventure’s Commitment to Sustainable Tourism

At Footprint Adventure, true exploration is measured not by the places you visit but by the positive impact you leave behind. Our commitment to sustainable travel is practiced on almost every journey we initiate. We foster meaningful and respectful connections with local communities, actively encouraging our guests to engage in the culture by participating in community-led activities and purchasing authentic, locally made products. This ensures that the economic benefits of tourism are directly shared with the people who call our destinations home. This dedication to well-being is built on a determined ethical foundation, with a zero-tolerance policy for sexual exploitation and harmful child labor. Our expert guides are the soul of our mission; they are not just navigators, but passionate guardians of sustainability who enrich your experience with their deep local knowledge. This perspective extends seamlessly to our sustainable accommodation policy, where we partner exclusively with properties that endorse a zero-plastic approach, prioritize energy and water efficiency, and celebrate local sourcing, creating a travel experience that is as responsible as it is unforgettable.

When Is The Best Time To Do The Mohare Danda Trek?

The Mohare Danda Trek can be done throughout the year because it lies in a lower-altitude region. The trek is at its best during the spring season from March to May when the forest is full of blooming rhododendrons and the pleasant weather.  The Autumn season from September to November is also an excellent time for the trek. During the autumn, the skies are clear, and you can appreciate the stunning views of the Himalayas. The winter season from December to February is also possible if you are ready for the cold. During winter the trails are quieter, and the mountains appear pretty in the snow. The trek is best avoided during the monsoon season from June to August, as the trails can be muddy and slippery and there are chances of landslides.

Is this Trip the Right Fit for You?

The Mohare Danda Trek is an excellent option ideal for individuals who are looking for a short, scenic trek that offers a cultural experience. If you are a new trekker or looking for a moderate trek that does not involve extreme altitudes, this could be a great option. The elevations of the trek range between 800 and 3,300 meters, therefore, making it accessible to most people with basic fitness.

The trek is perfect for travellers who are looking for sustainable and responsible tourism in Nepal. The Mohare Danda Trek is a community-based trek in the Annapurna Region, and therefore it encourages and enhances local development through community-run lodges and homestays to embrace local economies. When you choose this trek, you are supporting local livelihoods, education, and conservation efforts.

Why Choose Footprint Adventure for Mohare Danda Trek in 2025/2026?

Footprint Adventure is proud to present the Royal Trek as a community-based sustainable trekking package in the Annapurna region. We closely engage with local communities to promote eco-conscious tourism that positively impacts village economies. We design our trips to minimize environmental impact by avoiding plastic, favoring local homestays, and encouraging responsible trekking behaviors. Plus, we regularly organize clean-up treks and tree-planting initiatives in the area to protect nature for future generations.

By focusing on sustainability, we ensure that you have a great holiday while benefiting both the environment and the people in remote areas.

All of our guides are trained in responsible tourism, and every trek we undertake implements Leave No Trace principles. When you choose us, not only are you travelling to unique and magical places like Mohare Danda, you are a part of creating long-term positive change for local livelihoods and conserving nature.

This trek is ideal for travelers who are looking for a peaceful, environmentally conscious trek in Nepal, while truly supporting community welfare and sustainable tourism in Nepal.

How Difficult is The Mohare Danda Trek, and How Can I Prepare Myself for the Trek?

The Mohare Danda Trek is a moderate trek suitable for beginners with basic fitness. It ranges from 800 to 3,300 meters in altitude and involves 5–6 hours of walking per day on well-marked trails through villages and forests. No technical skills are required, but some uphill and downhill sections can be challenging. To prepare, focus on cardio activities like walking, running, or stair climbing a few weeks before the trek. Strength training for legs and core helps with endurance. Practice hiking with a backpack to get used to the weight.

Pack proper gear such as comfortable hiking boots, layered clothing, and rain protection. Being mentally prepared for changing weather and basic facilities also helps. With the right physical and mental preparation, the trek is manageable and enjoyable.

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Itinerary

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After breakfast, we will begin the Mohare Danda Community Trek with a beautiful 3-4 hour drive from Pokhara to Galeshwor. Along the way, you will be able to see some amazing views of the Annapurna mountain range. Galeshwor is a small, calm farming village by the Kali Gandaki River. Here, we will cross a suspension bridge to officially begin our trek.

The trek follows the gradual ascent of a well-established trail through terraced fields, stone-paved village paths, and forested areas used daily by the local community. After 3-4 hours of hiking, we will reach Banskharka, a beautiful hillside village surrounded by orange orchards. This eco-friendly route supports community-based tourism, helping local families and promoting sustainable travel.

Overnight Stay at a Homestay in Banskharka Village.

  • Accommodation Homestay
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Time6-8 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude1,525 m
  • Distance91.5 km

After breakfast at Banskharka, we begin the second day of the Mohare Danda trekking journey by hiking towards Naangi village. Nangi is a traditional village of the Magar and Pun ethnic groups. The trek is uphill and has a variety of terrain, including stone steps, forest, and roads through the village. While hiking through the lush rhododendron and oak forests, we will pass small villages, where you will also have an opportunity to see some stunning views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South, if the weather allows. 

In Naangi, a community-based eco village, we will explore their local projects such as organic farming, including their mushroom farms, school, and hospitality with the local Magar people.

Overnight Stay at a Homestay at Naangi Village.

  • Accommodation Homestay
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Time6-7 hours
  • Maximum Altitude2,320 m
  • Distance13 km

Today we begin our hike out of Naangi village and we will hike uphill through a thick rhododendron forest. Today will be the hardest day of the Mohare Danda trek with a continuous uphill walk. The trail will be narrow and natural with some small open meadows. It will take well over 5 hours to reach the hilltop of Mohare Danda. As we gain elevation, the vegetation becomes more sparse. Once we arrive at the Mohare Danda hilltop we will be rewarded with incredible views of Dhaulagiri I (8,167 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), Nilgiri (7,061 m), and Hiunchuli (6,441 m). This view will be similar to what we have experienced at Ghorepani Poonhill and therefore is a wonderful, less crowded alternative trek to Poon Hill. The sunrise and sunset views seen from here are certainly stunning.

Overnight Stay at an Eco Community Lodge in Mohare Danda.

  • Accommodation Community Lodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Time6-7 hours
  • Maximum Altitude3,300 m
  • Distance7.7 km

After enjoying the beautiful sunrise over the mountains at Mohare Danda, we will continue hiking towards Ghorepani village. We walk along ridge tops, pastures, and alpine meadows, eventually reaching Ghorepani via Poonhill. The trail descends gradually through forested ridges, with mostly downhill sections and occasional flat stretches. As we rejoin the classic Annapurna trail, we arrive at Ghorepani, a large village filled with many lodges. From here, we can catch partial views of the surrounding mountains.

Overnight Stay at a Homestay in Ghorepani Village.

  • Accommodation Community Lodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Time6-7 hours
  • Maximum Altitude2,850m
  • Distance7.7 km

If you hike up to Poon Hill early in the morning, it takes about 45 minutes of uphill walking. From the top, you can see sunrise views of more than 20 peaks, including Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Machhapuchhre. After returning to Ghorepani, you begin the 9.7 km (6 miles) trek to Tadapani. The trail starts with a gentle climb through forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine. As you go higher, the forest opens up, and you get clear views of the snow-covered mountains. The trail has several downhill sections, and overall, this day is considered moderate and easier compared to previous days. The total walking time is around 5 hours.

Overnight Stay at a Homestay in Tadhapani Village.

  • Accommodation Community Lodge
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Time5-6 hours
  • Maximum Altitude2,630 m
  • Distance13.6 km

The following day, we will continue our hike from Tadapani to Ghandruk Village. It is a very short and easy section of the trek, covering just 8 km (5 miles), mostly downhill, and takes about 3 to 4 hours on average. You start off trekking through dense forests of oak, rhododendron, and bamboo. The trails are all stone steps and dirt trails, and are in a well-maintained condition. You will also see people walking along the trails, as locals tend to use the same route as trekkers. This beautiful forest segment is well known for its birdlife, especially in the morning.

As you decrease in altitude, the forest gives way to terraced farmlands, village houses, and cultivated fields. You will have better views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli as you approach the village of Ghandruk. Once you reach Ghandruk, you are free to explore its stone-paved lanes, visit the Gurung Cultural Museum, and observe the traditional life found in the Himalayas. Ghandruk offers fantastic views of the mountains and is an extremely culturally rich place to visit just before heading back to Pokhara to finish your trek.

Overnight Stay at a Homestay in Ghandruk Village.

  • Accommodation Homestay
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Time5-6 Hours
  • Maximum Altitude1,950 m
  • Distance9.5 km

On the last day of the trek, you depart Ghandruk, driving back to Pokhara. The driving time is typically about 3 to 4 hours, depending on the road conditions. The first section of the road, from Ghandruk to Nayapul, is unpaved and bumpy and often requires that you take a 4WD jeep. From Nayapul, the road enters the main highway and improves significantly as you pass through small towns and some farmland. You officially end the trek when you arrive in Pokhara, so check into your hotel, then take the rest of the day to relax or explore the lakeside area.

  • Accommodation Hotel Barahi
  • MealsBreakfast
  • Time2 hours
  • Maximum Altitude820 m
  • Distance58 km

Additional Info

Flight Transportation and Luggage

The Mohare Danda Trek starts with a drive from Pokhara to Galeshwor, where the trip begins. All airport transfers and necessary drives within Pokhara and to the trek’s starting location will be arranged using private transportation. You can leave your extras in storage at your hotel in Pokhara, prior to starting the trek. Once the trek is complete, you will return via vehicle from the endpoint of the trail to Pokhara.

Permits Required

You'll need two permits for the Mohare Danda trek: The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which costs about NPR 3,000, and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card for roughly NPR 2,000. These permits help protect the environment and support sustainable tourism in the region.

Accommodation

On the Mohare Danda Trek, you will stay in community homestays or eco-lodges along the route. The facilities are basic and very clean, and you will be provided with twin-share rooms. Community-style homestays are operated by local families and offer a welcoming and authentic atmosphere, with home-cooked meals prepared using fresh and seasonal produce. Eco-lodges are likely to use some solar energy and are sustainability-focused. Both homestays and eco-lodges offer basic accommodation, but are comfortable enough for you to get a good sleep at the end of a long day of trekking. In Pokhara, you will stay at Hotel Barahi, which is one of the leading eco-friendly hotels. Hotel Barahi is all about comfort, but also cares about sustainability, with excellent facilities and well-thought-out, environmentally responsible practices. It is conveniently located close to the lakeside, providing a comfortable starting/ending home base for your trek.

Trekking Grade 

The Mohare Danda trek is classified as a moderate trekking grade. It includes some steady, uphill and downhill walking challenges but mostly follows well marked trails, allowing for some steep climbing. It is suitable for travelers in reasonable fitness looking to put in some effort and who have basic trekking experience.

Food and Water

The food in the Mohare Danda trek is organic and freshly prepared by locals. The meals will generally consist of simple dal bhat, noodles, and vegetables. From Ghorepani, you can also get a variety of food items. The availability of water on the trail is okay most of the time; however, on the day you trek to Mohare Danda, you should buy enough water with you, as there are no water sources along that trek. After Mohare Danda, you will find more water along the trails. Always be sure to drink boiled or purified water while trekking for your safety.

Telephone, Internet, and Electricity

Along the Mohare Danda trek, you can find mobile phone signals in most villages, so you can stay connected along the trek. Internet connection is limited and slow; you can mostly find it at some homestays or eco-lodges where they offer Wi-Fi. The lodges are also generating electricity using solar power, so there's a chance you can charge devices at the lodge, but there could be a limited supply. Having a power bank is recommended to recharge your devices while trekking.

Trekking Equipment

For the Mohare Danda trek, you need to take essential trekking gear to be comfortable and safe. This includes good boots, warm layers, waterproof jackets, and a hat. Also take a daypack for daily needs, a reusable water bottle, and hiking sticks. Remember to bring a headlamp, sunscreen, sunglasses, personal toiletries, a sleeping bag as some lodges do not provide blankets, basic first-aid items, and all personal medications. 

Customize Trip and Trip Extensions

Along with customizing your Mohare Danda trek, you also have the option of adding additional treks to your itinerary. Other popular options are the Annapurna Circuit Trek, Ghorepani Poonhill Trek, Muktinath Trek, Mardi Himal Trek, Tilicho Lake Trek, or any trek that you want. Extensions allow you to capture more of the beauty of the Annapurna region while enjoying diverse cultures and landscapes. If you would like to extend or customize your trip, please reach out to us and we will help you plan your dream trip.

FAQs

Q1. Where is Mohare Danda Located?

Mohare Danda is located in the Annapurna region of Nepal near the villages of Nangi and Tikot in Myagdi district. Mohare Danda is at an altitude of 3,313 meters with spectacular views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. You can normally trek to Mohare Danda from Galeshwor (or Beni), which is a few hours' drive from Pokhara.

Although the trail is generally well-marked and not too isolated, we would still highly recommend hiring a guide or porter. If you have never explored or trekked in rural Nepal, a guide will provide you with local knowledge. A porter can relieve you of the burden, so you can truly enjoy the trek. It is also good for local employment.

No, altitude sickness usually is not a big problem on this trek. The highest elevation is 3,313 meters, which is considered moderate altitude. Generally, trekkers adjust quite well, but it is always sensible to pace yourself, stay hydrated, and be mindful of how you are feeling.

Mohare Danda Trek is recognized as the first community based eco trek in Nepal, developed to empower local communities and reduce the impact of mass tourism on the environment. You will stay in community lodges run by local people; you will eat locally sourced food, and you can contribute directly to educational and health projects in the communities.

You don't need to be a professional hiker, but you should have a basic level of fitness. We suggest starting light cardio and legs to prepare anywhere from two weeks to a month prior to departure. Break in your trekking shoes and pack enough layers in your bag for the varying variations in weather. Also, don't forget to bring a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, a headlamp, basic over-the-counter medications, etc.

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