From City Chaos to Mountain Serenity: Our Mohare Danda Adventure
Nepal trekking is always one experience one won’t forget. But if there are two friends trekking, it turns out
to be a trek of memory. Here’s our account of the Mohare Danda trek—a trek with stunning vistas, cozy
homestays, and the kind of friendship that a trek can gift.
Kathmandu to Galeshwor (Drive)
We embarked on our trek in a morning journey from Kathmandu to Galeshwor via Beni. The twisty roads
followed us through green hills, tiny villages, and churning Trishuli River. With the city noise behind us, the
crisp mountain air filled our lungs, and the thrill ran through our veins.
It was already evening when we arrived at Galeshwor and shone the village in golden yellow. We had a
cordial dinner at one of the village guest houses and slept well, looking forward to the day’s hike the next
day.
Galeshwor to Nangi
Our expedition rightfully began with a tough ascent hike from Galeshwor to Nangi. The road was
intimidating, made up of endless stone stairs through villages and jungles. Despite the exhaustion on our
legs, the surrounding landscape motivated us more. The rice paddies, the classic villages, and the scarce
present orange orchard were a feast for the eyes.
Our first homestay experience was in Nangi. We were welcomed well by the host family and introduced to
the traditional homemade dal bhat and shared stories of how their day went about in the village. The
three of us in the evening simply sat around in the dining hall, with a fire to keep us warm as well as with
the warm welcome by the host family. A humble but well truly loving experience.
Nangi to Mohare Danda
The trek to Mohare Danda was the highlight of our trek. The trail meandered through dense
rhododendron forests, sometimes erupting into bursts of white summits. The ascent was relentless, and
our legs were beginning to protest, but the hope of being rewarded with stunning mountain views kept
us moving.
Our fatigue melted as soon as we reached Mohare Danda (3,300 meters). Annapurna and Dhaulagiri
ranges didn’t appear less magical. Mountains were coloured gold and red while sun sets and left us
without words. Overnight at the community lodge of the villagers, the villagers had cooked us a nice
dinner. In the cozy dinning room where other villagers, villagers’ members, and us trekkers were present
huddled up, we belonged to the family and felt blessed being there.
Dawning with the morning at Mohare Danda will be something one will never forget. Dawn broke on
mountain summits, and there was this other-worldliness and peacefulness. We embarked on our
downward trek to Tikot following a lavish breakfast.
The hike was done through forests, dotted with wildflowers of all colors and soft songs of birds. On the
way, we took stopovers to rest at villages and interacted with the villagers to understand their culture.
Tikot had arranged a homestay for us. Friendliness of the family and quality of the locally prepared food
were good compensations for the exhausting trekking for the day.
Tikot to Beni and Drive Back to Kathmandu
The final descent of our hike was to Beni. Our legs were sore, but we couldn’t help but feel satisfied. The
hike had been difficult, but the memories that we made—the laughter, the breathtaking views, and the
genuine connections with others—were all worth the hike.
We rented a private car from Beni to return us to Kathmandu. Having driven the same route through the
hills, we could not help but grin recalling the wonderful time that we had experienced.
Highlights and Tips for Fellow Trekkers
1. Homestay Essence: The warmth and hospitality of the host families gave our trekking trip a personal
touch. Don’t miss the opportunity to interact with your host and Slearn about their culture.
2. Community Lodges: The trailside lodges are clean and simple but comfortable, and the hot and
sumptuous local food with a chance to socialize with fellow trekkers.
3. Mountain Scenery: Mohare Danda provides the best scenery of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Sunrise and sunset are just breathtaking.
4. Challenges on the Trail: The climbs are challenging, particularly the climb to Mohare Danda. Don’t
forget to ease up and employ trekking poles.
5. Essentials to Pack: Layers for the changing weather, as well as comfortable trekking boots and a
refillable water bottle.
Last Things
Mohare Danda trek is not only a Himalayan trek; it’s a festival of Nepal’s nature, culture, and adventure.
For me, it was an affirmation of the strength of friendship and magic of discovering new frontiers
shoulder to shoulder. Treating ourselves to the second time, going back to Kathmandu by walking, knees
shaking but with a full heart, we felt sure that this trek will always remain etched in our mind. If you’re
looking for a unique trekking experience, Mohare Danda is waiting to welcome you.