Khopra Ridge Trek

The Khopra Ridge Trek (or Khopra Danda Trek) is an eleven days moderately challenging off-the-beaten-path adventure in the Annapurna region of central Nepal. Moreover, the trip begins from Kathmandu and traverses through the beautiful city of Pokhara into the Annapurna Conservation Area of the Himalayas. The trip offers its travelers stunning Himalayan scenery, excursions through traditional Gurung villages, and above all the exploration of Khayer Lake and its regional peaks. Additionally, the trek takes you to Poon Hill, a popular view point among hikers and trekkers mostly famous for its breathtaking sunrise and sunsets. Besides, the trail also passes via enthralling lush green rhododendron forests, classic meadows, and high-altitude pastures, with panoramic views of the mountains. The visible ranges here include Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri (7th highest), Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Manaslu (8th highest).

Ghandruk:

Ghandruk bases as a starting point of the eleven day Khopra Ridge Trek. It is a traditional Gurung village nestled at an altitude of 1950 m in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Besides, Ghandruk also marks as an embarking point of the most famous Annapurna Base Camp Trek as well.

Additionally, the visitors here can also try out traditional clothing and click pictures at a cultural museum in the village. It is an excellent way to experience the Gurung folklore and very famous among the travelers in the region. Moreover, the village is also known for its breathtaking views of the Annapurna range and surrounding peaks.

Khopra Danda:

Khopra Danda (Khopra Hill) is a peak with an altitude of 3660 m in the Myagdi district of Gandaki region of central Nepal. Moreover, the peak is mostly famous among trekkers and hikers for its viewpoints of the Himalayan range and the trail that leads to Khayer lake. Additionally, adventurous trekkers are drawn to the challenge of Khopra Ridge, a demanding hike along the route.

Khayer Lake:

Khayer Lake (4600 m) is a sacred freshwater lake located in the Annapurna region of central Nepal. Besides, it is considered a holy site among both Hindus and Buddhists, and is a popular destination for pilgrims, especially during the Janai Purnima festival.

Additionally, the trek to Khayer Lake is also a highlight of the eleven day Khopra Ridge Trek. The hike to the lake itself is an additional challenge as it also marks as the highest point of the trip. While the scenery is spectacular, reaching Khayer Lake requires proper acclimatization and high altitude climbs.

Poon Hill:

Poon Hill is another popular destination during the Khopra Ridge Trek. It is a hill station overlooking the Annapurna Massif range and Dhaulagiri mountain range in Gandaki Province of Nepal. Moreover, the hill station provides a panoramic lookout for mountains including Annapurna I-IV, Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri I (8127m), Dhaulagiri II, Machapuchare (6993 m), Himchuli, Nilgiri and Dhampus peak among others. It is mostly famous amongst the hikers and trekkers for its mesmerizing view of sunrise and sunsets.

Khopra Ridge Trek Map

Khopra Ridge Trek

Additional information on 11-Days Khopra Ridge Trek:

Dossier disclaimer:

This trip details here are compiled with due diligence and provided in good faith. However, please be aware that information contained herein is subject to alteration and does not form a contractual agreement between the client and Cordial Trek Pvt. Ltd. The published itinerary is correct at the time of printing. We are always committed to providing you with an enriching and enjoyable trip.

Booking your 11-Days Khopra Ridge Trek:

We are now offering maximum flexibility for our guests’ convenience to book their trip to the Annapurna region for 2025 and 2026. You may thus choose a date that best suits your schedule. Regarding your booking, please select one of the two available options. You may either pay USD 100 per person as a deposit amount to confirm your trip or pay the full amount of USD 899 per person upfront. If you opt for the deposit, the remaining is payable via Online / Card Swipe / Cash. We accept all convertible currencies including USD, AUD, CAD, EURO, GBP, SGD, etc. when you arrive in Kathmandu.

Booking your international flight:

Regarding your 11 Days Khopra Ridge Trek, you should plan to arrive in Kathmandu on Day 1 and depart on Day 11. However, having some extra one or two buffer days can prevent any issues with your return tickets.

Checklist for 11-Days Khopra Ridge Trek:

Please click here for a complete checklist of your 11-Days Khopra Ridge Trek. Be sure to read it carefully and pack accordingly as per your personal preferences.

Arrival information:

Once you’ve booked your flight tickets, please share the details with us so that we can provide you with a complimentary airport pickup as well. Our airport representative will then be waiting for you at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. They will also be holding our official name Cordial Trek and your nameplate as you exit the airport terminal. Additionally, if you’re arriving earlier, we can also arrange an accommodation for extra nights with add-on tours for additional cost.

Bus ride/flight to Pokhara and return:

We have included a Tourist Coach for all travelers leaving for Khopra Ridge Trek from Kathmandu to Pokhara & vice versa. However, you may as well book a direct flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara & vice versa with additional costs (USD 120 – One Way).

Trek starting and ending days:

The actual trekking days are from Day 3 to Day 9. You’ll travel to Pokhara on Day 2 to commence the trek and return back to Pokhara on Day 9. On Day 10, you’ll drive / fly back to Kathmandu and be transferred to your hotel. Expect to spend 7 days and 6 nights completing the Khopra Ridge Trek.

You’ll begin your trek from Ghandruk to Khayer Lake and back with overnight stays in villages like Tadapani, Bayeli Kharka, Khopra Danda, Swanta and Ghorepani. Each day’s trek will begin around 07:30 AM and conclude in the late afternoon, with frequent breaks to catch your breath. You’ll have numerous photo opportunities along the way and enjoy breakfast and dinner at the same place, while lunch is en route.

Additionally, your guide will provide you with regular briefings about timing and stops every morning before the trek begins.

Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara:

In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you’ll stay in 3 Star Hotels with twin/double sharing beds.

Accommodation in the Mountains:

During the trek, your accommodation options are teahouses. Although basic, these teahouses are clean and provide a comfortable place for a good night’s rest.

Food:

In Kathmandu and Pokhara, your package only includes breakfast, typically served buffet-style. During the trek, you will be provided with full board meals and may choose from a menu offering local and international cuisines.

Note: It is highly advisable to stick to vegetarian food from your arrival in Kathmandu until the end of your trek, as proper toilet facilities are not available everywhere along the trail.

Baggage and weight limit:

If you opt for a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara or vice versa, the total baggage weight allowance is 25 kgs, combining both checked and carry-on baggage. Ensure you pack approximately 10/11 kilos in your checked bag and 5/4 kilos in your carry-on to stay within the 25-kilo limit. If you have items you don’t need on the trek, you can leave them at the Kathmandu hotel for storage at no cost. Remember to take a photo of your bag-tag and keep it for easy identification in case the original tag is lost.

Drinking water during the trek:

Bottled water is available along the trail, but we encourage you to bring your own reusable water bottles and treat tap water to reduce single-use plastic bottle waste. Be sure to bring water treatment pills and flavorings to enhance the taste. Staying hydrated is essential, so aim to drink more than 4 liters of water every day while trekking.

Electricity, Charging and Wi-Fi:

Please be informed that you’re embarking on a trek to the mountains and not exploring urban areas. While some facilities like charging and Wi-Fi are available at an extra cost, they are not guaranteed. We also recommend against planning to work or conduct online meetings during the trek, allowing you to fully enjoy the mountain experience.

Cash for extras and tipping:

You should have Nepali rupees for expenses such as tea, coffee, bottled drinks and Wi-Fi. Plan to carry about USD 150 to 200 equivalent Nepali rupees. Additionally, set aside 100-150 USD for tipping your guide and porter. The amount can vary based on the level of service provided by the field staff members.

Availability of Guide & Porter:

Every two travelers will be provided with a single porter and an experienced guide. The baggage however must be divided between 12.5 kgs each as every porter carries a maximum of 25 kgs. You also have an option to hire a separate & private porter for additional costs as well. Both guide and porter will be fully insured and well equipped with necessary items and first aid kit.

Highlights of 11-Days Khopra Ridge Trek:

1. Trek to Khayer Lake (4600 m) via unbeaten trails

2. Experience Khopra Danda Viewpoint (3660 m)

3. Mesmerizing view of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I-IV, Fishtail

4. Observe the spectacular view of sunrise from Poon Hill

5. Explore the beautiful city of Pokhara

6. Experience Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung village

7. Trek inside Annapurna Conservation Area

8. Enjoy a scenic trail with lush green forests

9. Explore the traditional Himalayan yak cheese factory