Unveiling Nepal's Hidden Mountain Paradise: The Kokhe Danda Trek

Kokhe Danda Journey is a recently discovered trail by Find Parbat. Situated at an elevation of 3303m, it offers panoramic perspectives of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountains alongside layers of slopes on the southern side. Being the highest point of the Parbat Region and located 100m higher than Poon Hill, it provides a better view than Poon Hill. Toward the eastern side of Annapurna, you can also see peaks of the Manaslu and Langtang ranges too.

Being less travel path, the Kokhe Danda Trail is more tranquil and away from the crowd. Unlike other popular trails, you won't encounter other adventurers on this route apart from a few locals. Additionally, the journey passes through several beautiful villages including Banau, and Lespar. You get to authentic homestay, and Magar community and explore rural lifestyle as well. 

Kokhe Danda Overview

Distance - 80km to 130km (give or take, depends on route)
Days Required - 4 days
Total Elevation - 3303
Difficulty Level - Easy
Accommodation - Guesthouses/Teahouses
Cost - Depends if you complete the trek independently or with a tour.

1.1 How long does it take?
The Kokhe Danda Trek forms a circular route, allowing for flexibility in duration with options for 4-day, 5-day, or 6-day hikes. It boasts multiple starting points such as Baglung, Beni, Kusma, Tatopani, Ghandruk, Nayapul, and Patichaur.

1.2 What about a tour?

Trekking in a group is a practical way to organize your trip, especially if you are unfamiliar with Nepal. Nepal has a variety of tour operators, and you can book your trek online before your arrival or once you are in the country. 

For assistance in finding the right tour operator and itinerary, I recommend using Nature Trails, a website that compares multiple options to match your specific needs.

1.3 What was the food like?  
Most teahouses offer a diverse selection of local and Western dishes to satisfy various appetites. The mainstay meal during the trek is dal bhat, a hearty combination of rice, lentil soup, and vegetables. Popular local specialties include momos (dumplings), Thakali khana (a meal set including dal bhat, curry, and pickle), and Gurung bread (fried bread served with tomato chutney).

As you climb to higher elevations, food options may become more limited due to the remote locations of the lodges. Nonetheless, you can still enjoy comforting hot beverages such as ginger lemon honey tea and hot chocolate, along with simple yet nourishing dishes like vegetable noodle soup and Tibetan bread.

1.4 Do I need a guide?
While a guide is not mandatory, for an optimal experience, it is strongly recommended to enlist a guide or consult local experts when arranging your Kokhe Danda Trek, especially since this trail is relatively new.  Nature Trail boasts a formidable team of seasoned guides who make trekking an enjoyable experience.  Click for more detail 

Highlights of the Kokhe Danta Trek

• Incredible scenery of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains.
•  Watching breathtaking sunrises and sunsets from Haljure and Kokhe Danda.
• Visiting Lespar, a nice Magar community village.
• Having a genuine rural life experience through homestay accommodation.
• Hiking through magnificent rhododendron forests.

The main attraction of Kokhe Danda Trek

•  Exploring the Hidden Beauty of Kokhe Danda Trek
  Nestled adjacent to the renowned Mohare Danda in Nepal's Parbat district, Kokhe Danda Trek offers a mesmerizing escape often overlooked by many. With its breathtaking vistas and tranquil surroundings, this hidden gem promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Himalayas. Here's what makes this trek truly extraordinary:    
•  Kokhe Danda: Revel in Himalayan Majesty
  Perched atop Kokhe Danda, adventurers are greeted with a spellbinding panorama. Behold the majestic peaks of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Manaslu, each towering above eight thousand meters, offering a rare spectacle from a single vantage point. It's a moment of sheer awe amidst nature's grandeur.
•  Unveil the Layers of Hills
  While the towering peaks command attention, don't miss the scenic vistas to the south, east, and west. From Kokhe Hilltop, witness the undulating layers of hills stretching as far as the eye can see, resembling nature's intricate tapestry.
• Off the Beaten Path Exploration
  One of Kokhe Danda Trek's greatest appeals lies in its relative solitude. Unlike crowded trails to popular viewpoints, such as Poon Hill, Kokhe Danda remains refreshingly untouched by mass tourism, offering a serene mountain experience.
•  A Cozy Retreat at Kokhe Hill Summit
  For those wishing to prolong their stay, a newly opened lodge at Kokhe Danda's summit awaits. Featuring comfortable accommodations and a dining hall with panoramic views, it's an ideal spot to unwind amidst the splendor of the Annapurna range.

Itinerary for Kokhe Danda Trek

Embark on the short and accessible 4-day Kokhe Danda itinerary, where hikers and nature enthusiasts can revel in a breathtaking panorama. Marvel at the majestic Dhaulagiri, the grand Annapurna, and the imposing Manaslu Himalayan range from this vantage point. Discover more at : Nature Trails

Best season to trek Kokhe Danda Trek

The Kokhe Danda Trek is best done in the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the temperature is pleasant, the skies are clear, and the trekking conditions are ideal.

Kokhe danda trek difficulty

You can enjoy Himalayan trekking without tackling extreme altitudes or covering extensive distances. Perfect for novice trekkers, this route offers stunning scenery and opportunities to experience local culture.

Permit to trek Kokhe danda trek

The best part? You don't need any special permits to explore this hidden paradise, so it's perfect for those who prefer a peaceful mountain getaway. To ensure your safety, Trekking Trail Nepal suggests getting a TIMS Card unless you're entering or leaving through ACAP like Nayapul.

Conclusion and Tips

In conclusion, the Kokhe Danda Trek holds a secret treasure for intrepid explorers seeking a one-of-a-kind, serene, and breathtaking adventure that will leave a lasting impression.

• Pack light hiking boots, but trail running shoes can also work - though it's recommended to opt for Gore-Tex equipped shoes if you're planning to hike in rainy or snowy conditions for added waterproofing and protection
• Selecting a trustworthy and experienced trekking company or guide is crucial for ensuring a safe and memorable trekking experience. Nature Trail is the best travel agency, you can rest assured that every detail is taken care of.
• Before booking, please be aware that this trip takes you to high-altitude areas, which may cause discomfort or even altitude sickness for those who are not used to such elevations. It's recommended that you consult with a doctor and consider purchasing travel insurance that covers altitude sickness before embarking on this adventure.