Khopra Danda (Ridge) Trek

Duration: 15 Days5/5(1 review)
At a Glance
  • Duration 15 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Destination Nepal
  • Start/End KTM/KTM
  • Group Size 1-12
  • Max. Altitude 4500

Highlights

  • An untouched trekking route in the Annapurna region that goes to beautiful Khopra Danda and the holy Khayar Lake
  • Combines a hike to the famous Ghandruk and Ghorepani villages
  • A perfect trekking itinerary in the western Himalayas that offers breathtaking mountain views, intimate interactions with locals, and an authentic countryside experience
  • Support the local community residing along the way to Khopra danda as it is a community lodge trek
  • Enjoy adventurous and a bit offbeat with no crowd trekking route
  • Trek through dense forests, pastures, and rice fields
  • Witness stunning mountain panorama from Khopra Danda and hike to the holy Khayar Lake
  • Catch gorgeous sunrise from Poon Hill, along with stunning mountain views throughout the trek
  • Get to see diverse flora and fauna and the daily lifestyle of the locals

Khopra Danda Trek

Khopra danda trek is an untouched trekking route in the Annapurna region that goes to beautiful Khopra Danda and the holy Khayar Lake. Our 15 days Khopra danda trek also combines a hike to the famous Ghandruk and Ghorepani villages. It is a perfect trekking itinerary in the western Himalayas that offers breathtaking mountain views, intimate interactions with locals, authentic countryside experience, and adventure.

Khopra danda trek is also known as Khopra ridge trek, Khopra danda Khayar lake trek, and Khayar lake trek. It is a community trek designed to support the local community residing along the way to Khopra danda. Khopra danda trekking route is a bit offbeat with no crowd and a great trekking experience. The trail goes through dense forests, pastures, and rice fields. Because it is a relatively new trekking route, the region is unspoiled.

Located northeast of Pokhara, the Khopra danda trek route leads you away from the mainstream trails into the complete wilderness and dense forests. You will be trekking around the shadows of the Annapurna range and witnessing surreal views of mountains like Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Annapurna II (7,937 m), Annapurna III (7,555 m), etc.

The landscapes from Ghorepani and Ghandruk villages are phenomenal too. We will hike to Poon Hill while returning from Khayar Lake, which offers gorgeous sunrise and stretching views of the western Himalayan mountains like Annapurna (8,091 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Gangapurna (7,455 m), Nilgiri (7,061 m), Tukuche (6,920 m), Fishtail (6,993 m), Dhampus Peak (6,012 m), Gurja Himal (7,193 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), etc.

Major attractions of the Khopra danda trek

Guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu and explore Pokhara, the city of lakes

Before we leave Kathmandu for the Khopra Danda trek, we will spend a full day there visiting several historical sites. The tour will be guided. We will explore sites like Monkey Temple, Pashupatinath Temple, Booudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. These are some of the famous monuments in the city.

Similarly, in Pokhara, you get to enjoy the tranquility of Phewa Lake. Many tourists like to go boating on the lake. Like Thamel in Kathmandu, Lakeside Market is a tourist hub in Pokhara where you can buy souvenirs and enjoy the nightlife.

Ghandruk and Ghorepani villages

To make our Khopra danda trek itinerary furthermore thrilling and adventurous we have combined hikes to Ghorepani and Ghandruk villages. This will give you more insight into the life of the mountain people and the opportunity to interact with the closing. Both of these villages are famous for their kind and welcoming residents and incredible mountain views.

Come across diverse flora and fauna

The Khopra danda trek route is inside the Annapurna Conservation Area. You will trek through dense forests of pine, oak, rhododendron, bamboo, etc.

Moreover, on the way from Swanta village to Ghorepani, you will get to see 14 species of rhododendrons. It is the national flower of Nepal. Likewise, you will come across numerous other vegetation and wildflowers along the way.

Similarly, the trekking route is home to several wildlife and birds. You may get to see danphe, the national bird of Nepal, along with wild boar, monkeys, Himalayan tahr, etc.

Community eco-friendly trekking route

Khopra danda trek is opened by Mahabir Poon to help support the communities residing in this area. This trek is not commercialized like other famous trekking routes in Nepal. So you will get to have a very raw trekking experience. The overnight stays in the community lodges run by locals will offer you a close insight into their life.

Joining Khopra danda trekking, you will not only enjoy tranquil trekking and superb landscapes but also contribute to the community. This is a great trek to support a cause.

Khopra Danda and Khayar Lake

Khopra danda is situated at 3,660 meters, bordering the districts of Myagdi District and Kaski District. At the top of the ride is a small lovely community that will welcome you during your stay there. The famous side hike from Khopra danda is Khayar Lake. Situated behind the Annapurna II, the Khayar Lake is a sacred lake that one can reach easily from Khopra Danda.

The lake is 4,500 meters above sea level and offers outstanding views of peaks and glaciers. The trail from Khopra Danda to Khayar Lake is a bit challenging. It passes through waterfalls and snow/dry lands as per the weather. Here, you will visit the Khayar Barahi temple. Janai Purnima in August sees a huge crowd of pilgrims at the lake.

Mulde Peak

Just like Poon Hill, Mulde peak offers beautiful sunrise and heavenly views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. It is also a hill station located 30 minutes of moderate walk from Dobato. From Tadapai, Mulde peak is situated 3.5 hours walk away. You can ask your guide for a short side excursion to Mulde peak.

Itinerary

Find the detailed itinerary of the Khopra Dada Trek for 15 Days, the trek is known as Khopra Ridge, Khopra Hill, or Khaire Lake Trek as well. The 15-day itinerary of the Khopra trek is inclusive of your arrival day to Nepal, departure day from Nepal, and a day tour in Kathmandu.

Before we begin trekking to Khopra danda, we have to travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara and take another one to one and a half drive to Nayapul (1,070 m), which is the starting point of Khopra danda trekking. The trail first ascends to Ghandruk village (2,012 m) and further goes to Tadapani (2,630 m) following a densely forested trail. From Tadapani, we will leave behind the ABC trail and join the route that leads to Khopra Danda.

The trail goes through dense rhododendron, pin, bamboo, etc forests and ascends to Dobatato (3,426 m) via Masher (2,969 m) and Haire (3,137 m). You then trek past small settlements to Bayli Kharka (3,440 m) and continue the trek to upper Chistibung (2,950 m). First, the trail drops down to the pastures of Lower Chistibung and passes by buffalo grazing sites before reaching upper Chistibung.

Leaving Upper Chistibung, we will trek gradually on an uphill route that goes above the treeline to Khopra danda (3,660 m). During the acclimatization day, we will hike to Khayar Lake (4,500 m), located at the bottom of Brahashikhar. The next part of the trail descends to Ghorepani village (2,874 m) via Sawanta (2,200 m), hikes to Poon Hill (3,210 m), and descends to Hile (1,948 m).

From Hile, Nayapul is located 3 to 4 hours away, where the trek ends, and we will drive to Pokhara. After spending one more night in Pokhara, you will drive back to Kathmandu.

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Our airport representatives will welcome you at the Tribhuvan International Airport. They will take you to the hotel and also brief you on anything important. You can also ask them any question you have. You have the day free. Rest and explore Thamel.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • Max. Altitude1345

Kathmandu is a beautiful city full of temples and historical sites. Today, in the morning, we will go on a guided tour of some of the monuments. After breakfast, our tour guide will pick you up from the hotel lobby and drive to the monuments. We will visit the Monkey Temple, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Boudhnath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple.

After the tour, we have a couple of hours free for rest. Later in the afternoon, we meet in our office and discuss the trek. The trek guide will introduce himself, and we'll begin preparing for the trek. Do any last-minute shopping and pack the duffel bags.

  • MealsB
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Max. Altitude1345

We will leave Kathmandu early in the morning. Driving along the rushing Trishuli River, we continue the ride to Pokhara, enjoying the scenic views of green hills, terraces, and mountains. We use a tourist standard vehicle, so the ride will be comfortable. Upon reaching Pokhara, we check-in our hotel and rest for a few hours. In the evening, explore Phewa Lake and the Lakeside Market.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Max. Altitude830

The Khopra Danda trek begins from Nayapul. It is located an hour and a half drive away from Pokhara. From Nayapul, we will begin trekking to Ghandruk, a famous Gurung village.

For the first few kilometers, we will walk on a motor road and then join the forested path to Ghandruk village. Most of the youths of this village are part of the British Gurkha Regiment. The village offers breathtaking mountain views of Annapurna South, Fishtail, Nilgiri, etc.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude1940

After a warm breakfast, we leave Ghandruk and trek through lush forests to Tadapani. Along the way, we will see diverse flora and fauna. Many species of birds and flowers, including rhododendron, the national flower of Nepal, are seen along the way. Likewise, the views of Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, Fishtail, etc decorate the trail. We will trek through small settlements on the way, watching the daily lifestyle of the locals.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2630

We will be leaving the main trail to Annapurna Base Camp on this day and join the route to Khopra Danda. The trail goes through dense rhododendron, pin, bamboo, etc forests. Mount Fishtail and other western Himalayan mountains will accompany us along the way.

We'll reach a rest point at 2,969 meters called Masher and continue ascending towards Haire (3,137 m). Here we will take a lunch break and ascend to Dobatato (3,426 m). The trail further goes along small villages and descends through rhododendron forests to Bayli Kharka. From here, the view of Mt. Dhaulagiri is excellent.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3420

Follow a downhill route through open ground and continue trekking through forests and drop down to the pastures of Lower Chistibung, where we will stop for lunch. After lunch, we will walk through lush forests and gradually walk to the upper Chistibung. On the way, we will pass many buffalo grazing sites.

In Upper Chistibung, we will stay overnight in a small community lodge. For the next few days, the trail will get offbeat, and we will spend close time with locals. This trail is designed to help the local community and schools. You will get to experience an authentic village lifestyle.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2975

On this day, we will finally reach the Khopra Danda (ridge). Leaving Upper Chistibung, we will trek gradually on an uphill route that goes above the treeline. We may get to see wildlife like Himalayan tahr and Danfe (the national bird of Nepal) while trekking.

As most of the trail involves a climb, we have to maintain our pace. Once we reach Khopra danda, the towering mountain Fang and Nilgiri can be seen in the north, and Annapurna South directly above us. Likewise, Mt. Dhaulagiri dominates the western skyline above the Kali Gandaki valley.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3660

We have an acclimatization day in Khopra Danda. We take this day to explore the holy Khayar Lake and the local community. In the morning, we will hike to Khayar Lake, located at the bottom of Brahashikhar. It is a beautiful mountain that looks like a boar.

As per the beliefs of the locals, Lord Vishnu, the deity of preservation and operation of the Universe in Hindu mythology, took the form of a wild boar and resided here. Khayar lake is a pilgrimage site. You will get to know a lot about the beliefs and traditions surrounding this lake.

Later in the day, we spend time exploring Khopra Danda.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3660

From Khopra danda, we trek to Swanta village. The trail descends through lush forests and small villages. Diverse flora and fauna with striking mountain views make the trek fantastic. In Swanta village, we visit the community cheese factory and taste their cheese. Spend the remaining day relaxing and observing locals doing their daily chores.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2200

The trail ascends and descends along the rhododendron forests. We can see more than 14 distinct species of rhododendron on this route. Likewise, we will cross small streams and settlements.

Ghorepani is another beautiful village that offers a superb panorama of mountains like Annapurna I, Hiunchuli, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail, Nilgiri, Tukuche, Annapurna South, etc. This village is mostly resided by Gurungs and Magars.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude2860

We will go on a hike early in the morning today to Poon Hill, from where we can behold a gorgeous sunrise, along with a lovely stretching view of the western Himalayan Mountains around us. The hiking route ascends along a forested path. After the hike, we will return to Ghorepani and have breakfast before leaving the village.

Walking on a stone-paved path, we will descend to Ulleri. The trail drops through dense forests. We will have lunch in Ulleri and walk down a long stone staircase to Tikhedhunga. The trail further continues to Hile, where we will spend the night.

  • MealsB, L, D
  • AccommodationGuest House
  • Max. Altitude3210

Today is our last day of the trek. We trek following the forested path, crossing small bridges and settlements to Nayapul. Our trek ends here, and we take a local jeep and drive back to Pokhara. We have the remaining day free in Pokhara. It is a great time to explore this beautiful city and buy souvenirs.

  • MealsB
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Max. Altitude830

We’ll drive to Kathmandu after breakfast. The drive will be smooth and comfortable like before. The guide will drop you at the hotel upon reaching Kathmandu. It will be late afternoon until you reach Kathmandu, so spend the rest of the evening unpacking and window shopping in Thamel. We will see you in the late evening during the farewell dinner.

  • MealsB
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Max. Altitude1375

Our team will drop you at the Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight back home. They will bid you our last goodbye and well wishes. We hope to trek with you again in Nepal soon.

  • MealsB

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Map & Altitude Graph

Khopra Danda (Ridge) Trek map

Inclusions

  • Airport transfers
  • Three nights Accommodation in Kathmandu
  • Sightseeing tour in Kathmandu
  • Two night’s Accommodation in Pokhara
  • Nine nights’ accommodation on lodges/tea houses during the trek
  • Meals (14 breakfast, ten lunches, and ten dinners)
  • Conservation entry permits and TIMS permit
  • Transportation from Kathmandu - Pokhara - Kathmandu by tourist bus
  • A guide and porters (1 porter for every two people)
  • Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service (Paid by your Travel insurance)
  • Sleeping bag, down jackets if necessary and return after the trek

Exclusions

  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals, not stated in the itinerary
  • All the alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
  • Entrance fees on Kathmandu tour
  • Sweet things like chocolate
  • International airfare
  • Tips for the guide, porter & driver
  • Anything not mentioned in the included section

Add-Ons & Options

Skip long drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara

You can skip the long drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara by upgrading 30 minute flight at US $120.00

Skip long drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

You can skip the long drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu by upgrading 30 minute flight at US $120.00

Extend to Chitwan National Park

You can extend your trip to Chitwan National Park at US $250.00 per person, We have 2 nights 3 days tour in Chitwan National Park and the Itinerary for the extension will be:

  • Day 14: Travel from Pokhara to Chitwan
  • Day 15: Full Day Jungle Activities
  • Day 16: Travel from Chiwan to Kathmandu
  • Day 17: Transfer to airport to fly home

The Chitwan extension includes

  • Transfer from Pokhara to Chtiwan and from Chitwan to Kathmandu
  • 2 nights accommodation
  • 6 meals (2 breakfasts, 2 Lunches and 2 Dinners)
  • Jungle Activities- Jeep safari, canoe ride trip, Jungle Walking, cultural program etc…

Essential Info

Khopra danda trek difficulty & altitude sickness

The Khopra danda trek level is moderate. The trail has a combination of uneven and offbeat walking. Beginners can do this trek with proper preparation. The trail runs through dense forests and small villages. There are a few steep rocky sections too along the way. Overall, Khopra danda trekking is a beginner-friendly trek.

This trek ascends to 4,500 meters, which includes the risks of altitude sickness. As our Khopra danda trek itinerary involves a slow pace and an acclimatization day, the chances of altitude sickness are quite low. Moreover, our guide will also keep monitoring your health during the trek and give you first aid if needed.

Do the following things to stay away from altitude sickness:

  • Drink lots of water. You can also combine soups and other fluids into your meals
  • Do not consume alcoholic drinks or smoke during the trek
  • Eat ample food and get enough sleep
  • Keep your pace, and do not rush

Other adventurous trekking packages in Nepal

We have many adventurous trekking packages in Nepal for beginner to experienced trekkers. Likewise, we also have the best cultural tour itineraries and helicopter tours in Nepal.

Here are some of our best beginner-friendly trekking packages in Nepal- Annapurna base camp trek, Everest base camp trek, Langtang valley trek, Mardi Himal trek, Dhampus Sarangkot trek, Helambu trek, etc.

Likewise, experienced trekkers can check out these packages - EBC trek with Gokyo Lakes, Three high passes trek, Annapurna circuit with Tilicho lake trek, Langtang Gosaikunda trek, and Manaslu circuit trek.

Fitness for the Khopra Ridge Trek

A moderate level of fitness is required with daily walking/trekking between 3 to 8 hours for Khopra Ridge Trek. You reach an altitude of 3500m above sea level on this trek. You do not need previous trekking experience. However, if you have, it is an extra benefit.

You need to have good health and a strong desire and stamina to complete the trek with positive thoughts. If you have any health concerns, please consult your doctor before booking the Khopra Ridge Trek.

Permits for Khopra Ridge Trek

Some trekking permits are required to do Khopra Ridge Trek. You are required to have an Annapurna conservation area entry permit and TIMS. We at Outfitter Himalaya Holidays apply and get these permits for you once you book the trek from us. So, you do not need to worry about it when you book the trekking from us.

Best Time for Khopra Ridge Trek

The Khopra ridge trek is doable all around the year. However, Autumn (from mid-September till mid-December) and spring (from the beginning of March until May end) are the best time. The weather is mostly clear, and all the Mountains are visible this month.

You trek in green jungles with the best temperature in Autumn, as the temperatures are not hot and not too cold just after the monsoon. The weather is a little foggy in spring. However, the mountains are visible, the temperature is good, and the Jungles are colorful with Rhododendron flowers blooming.

The nights are chilly & cold (between -20 C to 5C), but the days are sunny and hot (between 10C to 30C). The mornings are usually clear, with clouds building up during the afternoon & disappearing at night.

Meals & Drinks on Khopra Ridge Trek

A total of 34 meals (14 breakfasts, 10 lunches, and 10 dinners) are provided in the Khopra Ridge Trek package, and we provide these meals in the lodges/hotels/community houses. You have breakfast and dinner at the lodges to stay overnights and lunch at the available lodge along the trail.

The guide will stop and provide lunch at the appropriate time and place. You have a wide variety of Nepali and Western meals as well as drinks (coffee, tea, milk, soft drinks, and beer), and the drinks are not included in the cost.

We suggest you bring water purification pills/medicine while coming for the Khopra Ridge Trek. You have normal water for free. So, you can use the medicine and drink it, or buy bottled or boiled/safe water to drink.

Accommodation on Khopra Ridge Trek

We provide a hotel for 5 nights (3 nights in Kathmandu and 2 nights in Pokhara) and simple lodge/tea house/community house accommodation for the rest of the 9 nights on Khopra Ridge Trek. The rooms are mostly basic & normally, just a bed with a pillow and blankets on trek lodges. A few have electric lights, and all have a spacious dining room - lounge.

We accommodate you/your group in a lodge available each day of the trek. We send a porter ahead of our group to book the required number of rooms (rooms cannot be booked in advance in all places). Please remember that some of them are very basic, and a sense of adventure is necessary while on the Khopra ridge trek.

Notes:

  • Accommodation will be on double/twin share (triple share also available in some places).
  • Hotel upgrade in Kathmandu and Pokhara is available to 4 & 5-star hotels available. Let us know if you want to upgrade the hotels in Kathmandu & Pokhara.

Extra nights in Kathmandu pre or post the Khopra Ridge Trek

Extra nights in Kathmandu for pre & post-the Khopra Ridge Trek is available if you arrive in Nepal earlier and stay in Nepal later. Let us know at the time of booking.

Transportation Used on Khopra Ridge Trek

We provide private vehicles for airport transfers and Kathmandu day tours, and tourist bus transport for Kathmandu -Pokhara – Kathmandu. You also have options to drive by private car/jeep to Pokhara and return or take a flight short from Kathmandu – to Pokhara - Kathmandu.

Please, do let us know if you want to upgrade the modes of transport.

Price fromUS$850(All-inclusive price)
Book Your Own Date
Number of PeoplePrice Per Person
1 pax
US$1150
2 - 5 pax
US$950
6 - 12 pax
US$850

Book your trek on your date!

Client Reviews

  • 5/5

    Khopra Ridge Trek in Nepal

    I was recommended Outfitter Himalaya by a friend who had trekked with them a month before my trip. I exchanged numerous emails with Arjun to gather the information I needed and book the appropriate trek for my sister and me to do on our visit to Nepal.

    We were greeted at the airport and given our tickets for our connecting flight from Kathmandu onward. When we arrived in Pokhara, a taxi took us to our hotel, and we were able to check-in. We then went to wander around Pokhara. At 5 pm, our guide met us at the hotel to go over the trek and agree on a start time for the next day.

    Our guide was Suraj, and he was an absolute pleasure to hike with. He was able to answer our questions along the way, provided us with additional information we didn't know to ask about, and after two days, I can honestly say it was like hiking with a new friend.

    We cruised through the trek and arrived early each day at the endpoint which allowed us to get the best rooms (with wonderful views) and spend more time relaxing and enjoying those views. The guide recommended things to do, made sure we weren't hungry, and hung out with us like longtime friends. I would recommend you go with Outfitter Himalaya.

    After chatting with others along the trail, I didn't get the sense that I over or underpaid for the service, and comparatively, it sounded like we were having a better experience than some others. Thanks!

    C
    ColinFrom: India,Feb 24, 2022
    logo

    Dear Colin,

    Thank you for joining us for Khopra trek in Nepal and thank you for a great review about the trekking with us. Good to know that you are happy with the guide and all the services provided in the Khopra Ridge trek in Nepal.

    We wish you all the best and wish to serve you again.

    Have a good day.

    Arjun
    Outfitter Himalaya Holidays P. Ltd

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