Kori Danda: The Secret Himalayan Viewpoint No One is Talking About

If you want to experience the remote destination side of Nepal, then Kori Danda is for you. Kori Danda is also the least-known place in the remote Annapurna region of Nepal. Kori Danda is a newly found trekking destination to enjoy raw and unpolluted nature. Kori Danda lies around 3,800 meters above the sea. Kori Danda provides stunning sceneries of the giant Himalayas, such as Annapurna, Lamjung Himal, and Machhapuchhare. Kori Danda still remains the best-kept secret of the trekking world of Nepal as being a less crowded, culture-rich place providing serene landscapes and the quintessence of the Himalayas.

Where is Kori Danda Located? 

Kori Danda, at an altitude of 3800 meters, is located in the northeast part of the Annapurna Region, where your journey starts from the village called Sikles, which is 40 km from Pokhara. The viewpoint offers the panoramic view of the Himalayas, such as Annapurna, Lamjung Himal, and Machapuchhre (Fishtail). The Sikles village is a community of Gurung people, where you can experience rich culture and traditions. The trail of Kori Danda is less crowded, so you can really enjoy the view as well as deeply connect to the people and nature.

What Makes Kori Danda Special

The first thing that makes the Kori Danda special is its remote landscapes, where nature takes over you. It offers the stunning views of the Himalayas, like Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Lamjung Himal. You get to experience the tradition of the large Gurung community throughout the trek. Some of the highlights of the trek that make it special are

• Toni Hagan Trail: It is the trail named after the person who walked through this trail and found the Kori Danda.
  
  

• Sikles Village: The large Gurung community where you can learn about their culture, tradition, and experience their warm hospitality. The locals believe that “Sota” is the root of their ethnic group.
  
  

• Diverse Landscapes: Experience the diverse landscapes from lush forests to high-altitude meadows.
  
  

• Mountain Vistas: The Kori Danda viewpoint offers panoramic views of mountain vistas like Annapurna, Machapuchhare, and Lamjung Himal, which is perfect for photography.
  
  

• Kapuche Lake: Trek to Kapuche Lake, which is the lowest glacier lake in Nepal.
  
  

• Moderate Challenge: This trek is ideal for beginners and for those who have a short time to experience nature.
  
  

Comparing Kori Danda with Other Viewpoints

Mradi Himal:

Mardi Himal is one of the trekking routes of Kaski district’s popular Annapurna region. It is less strenuous, and it will take 4 to 5 days depending on your itineraries. Mardi Himal starts from Pokhara town. Mardi Himal Base Camp is the destination point. It is at 4,500 m altitude. It is a moderate-grade trek. It offers very good mountain views, like Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhare, Annapurna South, etc. It offers views of alpine areas, valleys, agricultural farm terraced fields, and rhododendron forests. Mardi Himal charges between $400 and $1200 depending on duration, itineraries, and quantity.

Khopra Danda: 

The Khopra Ridge trek, also known as the Khopra trek, is one of the most sought-after trekking sites. It is in the Annapurna region and is a more remote trek than other Annapurna region treks. It takes 7 to 12 days to finish the trek. The trekking might involve visiting Poon Hill Trek for a sunrise view, depending on your itineraries. There is a mixed landscape on the trek, acclimatizing one to high mountain deserts, alpine grasslands, rhododendron forests, and terrace agriculture. The trek finally comes to its end once one reaches Khopra Danda, where one has the finest view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. It’s culturally rich; one will be in touch with people of different ethnicities, such as Gurung, Magar, and Thakali, and their hospitality. The Khopra trek costs between $435 and $780.

But if we talk about Kori Danda, it is less crowded and is situated in the serene landscapes of the Annapurna region. You can enjoy the nature, culture, and views throughout the trek, and gaining a deep connection to the nature is what makes the trek special. You can see 360-degree panoramic views of mountains, and it is ideal for beginners and trekkers seeking solitude. The main highlight of this trek is you can feel connected to the nature and its attraction. A fresh mind and recharged soul are what this trek offers at the end and the experience that you take throughout your life. 

When is the Best Time to Visit Kori Danda? 

Choosing the best time will enhance and make your experience easy and full of memories, with no tantrums at all. 

The best seasons to visit Kori Danda are:

1. Spring (March to May): This season offers you green vegetation, blooming rhododendrons, mild daytime temperatures, and clear visibility that offers panoramic views of mountains. Forests are full of rhododendron and wildflowers, making the trail scenic.
   
   

2. Autumn (September to November): It provides stable weather conditions and dry and clear skies. It is also the festive season, which is a bonus for you. It has the best weather of the year because after the rainfall everything looks clear and fresh and dust-free.
   
   

Seasons to avoid are:

1. Monsoon (July to September): During monsoon heavy rainfall takes place, which makes the trail slippery and risky for trekkers. Due to the clouds and fog, the visibility of the surroundings becomes poor for trekkers. There could be a high chance of landslide and flood during monsoon, and also there might be transportation issues.
   
   

2. Winter (December to January): During winter, it becomes extremely cold to walk in the forest. Heavy snowfall might take place at higher altitudes, which may create obstacles for trekkers. There might be less service of accommodation and foods as you reach higher altitudes.
   
   

Trekking Routes to Kori Danda 

Kori Danda is situated in the northeast part of the Annapurna region. Your journey typically starts from Pokhara to Sikles village, which is a Gurung community. From Skles you’ll trek to Hugo Goth, then Nohtha, and finally your destination, Kori Danda. The trails are decent and take you through beautiful forest, terraced farm fields, and a remote ridgeline. 

The Trek Itinerary for Kori Danda is:

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m): Arrival at the international airport and drive to the five-star hotel. Rest, and then sightseeing within and around Kathmandu, including New Road, Thamel, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Pashupatinath, Swyambhunath, and Boudhanath. Later, return to the hotel and have dinner and rest prior to your trek.

Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (822 m): You are transported on a scenic road from Kathmandu to Pokhara, 6-7 hrs. When we reach Pokhara, we are dropped at the room of the hotel and rest, and afterward one can roam around the city of Pokhara, feel the nightlife of Pokhara, and come back to the hotel.

Day 3: Drive from Pokhara to Sikles (1,980 m): You will be driven up to the village of Sikles after breakfast, the largest concentration area of Gurung people. You will be exposed to the traditional Gurung way of life and how they survive and live. You will be viewing the panorama of mountains such as Annapurna II, Lamjung, and Machhapuchhare Himal from the village of Sikle.

Day 4: Trek from Sikles to Hugo Goth (2,016 m): Your trekking will commence from here from today onwards. You will be trekking uphill via trails, and the path drops via rhododendron forests, small grasslands, and streams. You will be trekking for approximately 5-6 hrs, and finally, you will arrive at Hugo Goth, which is a small grassland.

Day 5: Hugo Goth to Kori Danda (3,800 m): You will be trekking up to Kori Danda Ridge. You will be walking through alpine pastures and have superb views of mountains while climbing. It requires a 6-7 hour walk at Kori Danda, and you will be spellbound with its landscape and mountain views, like the Annapurna and Lamjung ranges, Machhapuchhare, and Manaslu.

Day 6: Rest day at Kori Danda: You will be based at Kori Danda and observing around the region for acclimatization. Kori Danda ridge is ideal for photography with views of sunrise and sunset. At Kori Danda, one can feel the element of nature and culture and usually pilgrims are found there.

Day 7: Kori Danda to Nohtha: Descend through alpine grass and jungle after experiencing the morning sun above the mountain. Careful and easy descent down. It’s a 5-6 hour trek down to Nohtha, and it’s a tiny accommodation town.

Day 8: Nohtha to Tangting village (1,650 m):  It is a 5-6 hr walk from Nohtha to Tangting village. Tangting village is another Gurung village but smaller in size compared to Sikle village. One feels the warmth of local people here and one also learns about the culture and lifestyle of the people.

Day 9: Drive from Tangting to Pokhara (822 m): Overnight stay at Tangting village. You will be taken from Tangting village to Pokhara by road. It will be quite entertaining in Pokhara, and there will be numerous things that can be undertaken in Pokhara, such as boating, paragliding, sightseeing, and experiencing the nightlife of Pokhara.

Day 10: Departure from Pokhara:  You are driven from Pokhara to Kathmandu and can proceed on your onward journey on a visa extension or will be dropped at the International Airport for your departure.

Wildlife, Culture Around Kori

Wildlife

Kori Danda falls under the Annapurna Conservation Area and within a high biodiversity zone. From a wildlife perspective, it is the home for various animal and bird species. Animals and birds like the Himalayan tahr, Himalayan monal, musk deer, langurs, barking deer, and pheasants live there. Flora such as rhododendrons, magnolias, pines, and oaks are present, and likewise, in high altitudes, you can see wild orchids and alpine herbs. 

Culture

Similarly, the Gurung community lives in Sikles and the surrounding villages. You can see Buddhist stupas, prayer flags, and traditional stone houses. You can enjoy the warm hospitality of the Gurung people and learn about their culture and tradition. The local people practice traditions like shamanic healing and ancient weaving. You can learn about their livelihood. Likewise, the Gurung people celebrate their major festival, ‘Tamu Lhosar,’ at the end of December. 

Accommodation and Food options During Kori Danda Trek 

Accommodation:

Kori Danda is an emerging destination for trekkers in the current scenario. So the food and accommodation are basic throughout the journey. For accommodation, teahouses are there till you reach Sikle village, which offers basic rooms and a shared bathroom. But after Sikle village there is the option of a homestay facility where you can enjoy having local foods, and you could learn their local lifestyles. At Kori Danda there is the option of herder huts, and also you can carry a tent for yourself, which may be necessary for you. 

Food:

For food, teahouses provide basic meals such as Dal Bhat and Tarkari (lentil soup and rice). As you ascend, the food options may be limited. Some of the teahouses may provide Western cuisine such as pasta and pancakes. During a local homestay, you get to eat local food items that include eggs, soup, vegetables, roti, etc. You can also carry your own snacks for emergencies. 

Is Kori Danda for You?

Kori Danda is ideal for a traveler who is looking for a quiet, authentic trek ahead of the crowds and away from the standard trails. If you like the outdoors, fantastic mountain views, and enjoy experiencing a culture away from the hustle of a tourist trail, Kori Danda has it all. This trek is perfect for the moderately fit trekker who appreciates adventures off the beaten path, peaceful trekking trails, and friendly people. Kori Danda offers an experience that, to its traveler, is an experience that is revitalizing and memorable no matter if you are an experience chaser, a photographer, a nature lover, or are in search of a rich Gurung culture and a peaceful experience here in Nepal.

How to Book a Kori Danda Trek

You can book the Kori Danda Trek from reputable travel companies like Nepal Outdoor Expeditions at a reasonable price. The company offers options for custom itineraries, gives you a reasonable price, and provides a licensed guide. To be certain about being accommodated and to allow time for suitable arrangements and planning, advance booking is highly recommended if you decide to go trekking in the most popular season. However, doing an independent trek with a local guide would be more affordable and customizable. 

Kori Danda By Helicopter 

Kori Danda by helicopter is appropriate for those who are not interested in trekking all the way up but want to enjoy the view from Kori Danda. You can enjoy the aerial views of mountain peaks and nature without facing any obstacles. You can do Kori Danda by helicopter at any time, but consider the weather and visibility before going for it. However, the optimum time to do Kori Danda by helicopter would be spring and autumn. If we look for the cost, it can vary from travel agencies and their services, but the general price for Kori Danda by helicopter per person would be $400. 

Requirements and Safety Rules for Helicopter Tour to Kori Danda:

1. Physical Health Condition: You need to be physically fit, meaning no diseases like heart disease, lung disease, or also blood pressure problems. 

2. Weight Limitation: The helicopter can carry up to 500 kg of weight per flight, including luggage, plus 5 passengers. 

3. Permits: Kori Danda is part of the Annapurna Conservation Area so you need an ACAP permit, which costs around $25, and a TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) permit, which costs around $14. 

4. Passport and Visa: Make sure your passport is valid for 6 months beyond your intended stay in Nepal and also that you have the appropriate visa for Nepal.

Preparation for Kori Danda Trek

If you have already decided to go for the Kori Danda Trek, then preparing for it would make it an even more successful trek. 

For Clothing:

1. Base Layer:
   
   

2. Mid-Layer
   
   

3. Outer Layer
   
   

4. Trekking Pants and Bottoms
   
   

5. Headwear
   
   

6. Handwear
   
   

7. Footwear
   
   

Mental and Physical Preparation:

Being mentally and physically prepared is necessary. Before doing this trek, go for a short hike, know your stamina, do cardio exercise like swimming and running, etc. Be mentally prepared, knowing its difficulty. Also proper acclimatization is very important while ascending. Checklist for gear like hiking boots, layered clothes, sleeping bags, windproof/waterproof jackets, headlamps, and power banks. Consider carrying water bottle and water purification tablet, first aid kit, trekking poles, rain cover, snacks, etc. 

Responsibilities Of Trekkers

It is our responsibility to conserve the wildlife and diverse landscapes while doing the trek. We go to these places to connect to nature, relax ourselves, and heal ourselves, but people need to be conscious about preserving this nature while enjoying it. 

Some of the responsibilities of trekkers are

1. Environmental responsibilities:
   
   

• You should use your reusable bottles and toss them in the dustbin.

• Don’t damage the trail, making it difficult for people to walk.

• Respect the wildlife and do not come near if you notice any.

• Never discard wrappers on the ground after mealtime.

    2. Cultural Responsibility:

• Respecting the locals’ lifestyle, tradition, and culture.

• Always ask for the consent of local people before taking pictures.

• You can also support them financially by purchasing from them or staying in one of their homestays.

    3. Team and Social Responsibility:

• Respect guides and porters.

• Speak politely to everyone on your team as well as outsiders.  

• Be punctual to cooperate with the team on schedule.

Final Thoughts

If the yearning is for a mix of the most beautiful mountain vistas, true understanding of culture, and scenic landscape all off the mainstream, then Kori Danda is well worth the visit. It’s the perfect spot for the traveler who seeks the solitude of the landscape of Nepal due to its peaceful natural environment, Gurung culture, and scenic trekking trails. The destination is perfect for all who yearn to witness the unseen treasures of Nepal. It is Kori, which provides a total and memorable experience capturing the essence of the Himalayas, whether by helicopter or trekking on foot.

Traveler’s FAQs

How high is Kori Danda?

Kori Danda is about 3,800 meters above sea level.

What mountains can be seen from Kori? 

While at Kori Danda, you can see the stunning peaks of Lamjung (6,993 m), Machhapuchhare Himal (6,993 m), and Manaslu Himal (8,156 m).

Are there any permits required for trekking to Kori Danda?

You will need some trekking permits, including the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). 

Is the trail safe for solo trekkers, or should I hire a guide instead?

Yes, but it is recommended for your safety and to help you understand the area better that you use a guide or join a group.

Is there a way of getting to Kori Danda by helicopter?

Yes, you can have a helicopter tour from Pokhara; access will be fast, and you will also get an aerial view of the surrounding area. 

Is there anywhere for me to stay at on the trek to Kori Danda?

Yes. Through the village of Sikles you can find local homestays or basic teahouses where you can find simple food and a room. 

How long does it take to trek to Kori Danda?

Generally, it will take 3 to 4 days, but that really depends on how you trek and your itinerary. 

Is the trek to Kori Danda a hard trek? 

It is a moderate trek. Anyone with basic fitness and some trekking experience will enjoy this trek!

What is the ideal season for the Kori Danda trek?

The best time to do the Kori Danda trek is in spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November).

Are there mobile networks and internet availability? 

Networks and the internet are available in lower regions, but as you ascend, there is a high chance of no internet and mobile networks.

Are there any detours or points of interest?

Yes, you can consider visiting the holy lake of Dudh Pokhari. 

Which district is Kori in?

Kori is located in the Kaski district of Gandaki province, Nepal. 

How far is Pokhara from Sikles? 

The distance between Pokhara and Sikles village is approximately 40 km. 

Is physical fitness really important for the Kori Danda Trek? 

The Kori Danda trek is moderate to difficult, but still you need a good fitness level to do this short trek.

What is the cost per person for Kori Danda by helicopter? 

The cost per person for the Kori Danda by helicopter ranges between $300 and $600.