The first rays of dawn painted the Annapurna range in hues of gold, and at that moment. This story isn’t about conquering mountains—it’s about a brief yet profound journey into the heart of Nepal’s Himalayas.
The Call of the Mountains
Our journey began as a whisper, a casual suggestion among friends that quickly grew into an irresistible call to adventure. While seasoned trekkers might stretch this route into a leisurely five-day excursion, we chose to compress our odyssey into two exhilarating days, each step a challenge, each view a reward.
Nestled in the shadow of the famed Mardi Himal trek lies Khumai Dada, a lesser-known gem that promises equally stunning views with a fraction of the crowd. At 3,245 meters, it offers an intimate encounter with the majestic Machhapuchhre, or Hiunchuli, and a panoramic vista of the Annapurna range that will leave you breathless—both literally and figuratively.
Day 1: From Bustling Pokhara to Serene Wilderness
The Journey Begins
As our bus wound its way from Hemja to Ghachowk, the urban sprawl of Pokhara gradually gave way to terraced fields and scattered villages. The hour-long ride was filled with excited chatter and last-minute gear checks. In Ghachowk, we fueled up on dal bhat, the hearty lentil and rice dish that would power us through the climb ahead.
Into the Wild
The trail from Ghachowk started gently enough, lulling us into a false sense of security. But as we pushed past Saripakha village—where we stumbled upon a film shoot that momentarily transported us into a scene from a Nepali drama that the two of us watched together–good old days.
As the true nature of our challenge revealed itself, the path narrowed, steepened, and enveloped us in a lush forest canopy. The cacophony of civilization faded, replaced by the melodious songs of hidden birds and the rhythmic crunch of our boots on fallen leaves. Occasionally, a rustle in the undergrowth hinted at the diverse wildlife sharing these woods with us.
Respite and Final Push
Hile Kharka’s Green Cottage appeared like an oasis, offering steaming cups of tea that revived our spirits. But the toughest part lay ahead—the grueling climb to Khumai Deurali. Each step was a negotiation with gravity, each breath a little shorter than the last. The small cottage at Deurali provided a brief sanctuary before we mustered our remaining strength for the final ascent to Khumai Dada.
Under the Stars
As night fell on Khumai Dada, we found ourselves in a bustling campsite, exchanging stories with fellow trekkers from around the world. With proper lodges full, we embraced the adventure, setting up tents under a canopy of stars and a moon so bright, it seemed as if the heavenly body itself was within reach.
Day 2: A Dawn to Remember
The Ascent in Darkness
Long before the first hint of dawn, we set out for Korchan Hill. The predawn air was crisp and thin, each breath visible in the glow of our headlamps and flashlights. The steep path tested our resolve, but the shared determination of two —now expanded to include new friends made on the mountain—pushed us forward.
Sunrise Spectacle
As we reached the summit of Korchan Hill at 3,700 meters, the world around us began to awaken. First, a faint glow on the horizon. Then, slowly, majestically, the sun crested the distant peaks, igniting the sky in a breathtaking display of hues of oranges, reds, and golds.
Before us stood Machhapuchhre, its distinctive double peak silhouetted against the brightening sky. As daylight spread, it revealed a panorama of snow-capped giants—Annapurna range, Hiunchuli, Mardi Himal, and Gangapurna. At that moment, all fatigue vanished, replaced by a profound sense of awe and insignificance in the face of nature’s grandeur.
Reflections on the Descent
As we began our journey back to civilization, the magnitude of our experience began to sink in. This short trek had offered us a glimpse into the timeless beauty of the Himalayas and the indomitable spirit of those who call these mountains home.
Words of Advice and Suggestion
- Acclimatize properly, even for short treks at this altitude.
- Pack layers—temperatures can vary wildly from day to night.
- Bring more water than you think you’ll need, especially for the final push.
- Don’t need a guide for this route, although it is always better to have someone who knows the terrain.
- During peak seasons, pre-booking of the hotel is preferable, as the high crowd flow will make it difficult to find accommodation.
In the end, it’s not about conquering mountains. It’s about allowing the mountains to conquer a piece of your heart, forever calling you back to their majestic heights.
