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Overview & Highlights of Khopra Danda (Ridge) Trek

Step away from the crowded trails of the Annapurna Sanctuary and discover the Khopra Danda (Ridge) Trek. This 12-day hidden gem offers one of the most comprehensive mountain panoramas in Nepal, placing you face-to-face with the massive Dhaulagiri and Annapurna massifs.

The Khopra Danda Trek is the ultimate “off-the-beaten-path” alternative to the busy Ghorepani-Poon Hill circuit. Spanning approximately 65 to 70 km, this community-based lodge trek takes you through ancient rhododendron forests and high-alpine yak pastures to a remote ridge at 3,660m.

What sets this journey apart is the legendary side trip to the sacred Khayer Lake (4,600m), a glacial sanctuary nestled at the foot of Annapurna South. From the ridge, you don’t just see the mountains; you feel immersed in them, with unobstructed views of Dhaulagiri (8,167m), the Nilgiri peaks, and the iconic Machhapuchhre.

Trip Highlights

  • Unrivaled Panoramas: Witness 360-degree views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges from Khopra Ridge.
  • Poon Hill Sunrise: Enjoy the famous golden hour at Poon Hill before heading into the wilder sections.
  • Sacred Khayer Lake: Visit the holy glacial lake, a site of deep religious significance for local Hindus and Buddhists.
  • Community Connection: Stay in lodges that directly benefit the local Magar and Gurung ethnic communities.
  • Wildlife Sightings: Opportunity to spot the Himalayan Thar, Danphe (Lophophorus), and playful langur monkeys in the dense forests.

Khopra Danda (Ridge) Trek Infos

Duration

12 Days

Trip Grade

Moderate

Best Season

April-Jun and September-November

Accomodation

Star Hotel, Teahouse and Camping

Departure from

Kathmandu to Kathmandu

Transportation

Bus and Jeep

Meal

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Maximum Altitude

4,620m

Group Size

2-10



Khopra Danda (Ridge) Trek Itinerary

Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to your Hotel. When you arrive in the airport, our staff will receive you at Tribhuvan Inteational airport, Kathmandu. He/ she will be displaying a placard with Himalayan Travelers written in it outside the airport terminal. He will meet, greet and welcome you with auspicious garland and escort you to your respective hotel by our private tourist vehicle. At the hotel, he will assist you to check in and do pre-trip meeting with you. Final altitude about 1,300m. Meals: lunch and dinner not included, welcome drink and bed and breakfast included. Accommodation: nights at the hotel.

Today, we begin our jouey with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, a beautiful lakeside city surrounded by green hills and stunning Himalayan views. For small groups, we travel by shared tourist bus, while larger groups use a private vehicle. Along the way, you can enjoy views of charming villages, terraced farmland, and winding rivers.

 

After arriving in Pokhara, you can relax or explore the vibrant Lakeside area. You may also visit local temples or enjoy delicious Nepalese cuisine with mountain views. This is also a good opportunity to do any last-minute shopping for the trek.

After breakfast, drive to Nayapul or Birethanti, the starting point of your trek. From Nayapul, Birethanti begin your trek towards Ulleri, a small village located amidst lush greenery and terraced fields. The trail winds through picturesque landscapes, passing by traditional villages inhabited by ethnic Gurung and Magar communities. Along the way, you’ll encounter stunning views of the surrounding mountains and cascading waterfalls, providing a taste of the natural beauty that awaits you on the trek.

Today’s trek takes you from Ulleri to Ghorepani, a charming village renowned for its panoramic views of the Annapua and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The trail ascends gradually through dense rhododendron forests, offering glimpses of colorful blooms during the spring season. As you climb higher, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping vistas of the surrounding valleys and peaks. Upon reaching Ghorepani, settle into your accommodation and enjoy a well-deserved rest amidst the tranquil mountain setting.

Walking time: 4-6 hours

Oveight: Tea houses (2,874m)

Wake up early in the moing and hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m) to enjoy a beautiful sunrise over the Annapua and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. After taking in the stunning views, retu to Ghorepani for breakfast.

After breakfast, begin your trek to Swanta. The trail passes through rhododendron forests, traditional villages, terraced fields, and a suspension bridge before reaching the peaceful village of Swanta.

Walking time: 6–7 hours (including the Poon Hill hike)
Oveight: Teahouse in Swanta (2,270 m)

After breakfast, begin your trek from Swanta to Khopra Danda, one of the most scenic parts of the jouey. The trail gradually climbs through beautiful rhododendron forests and open hillsides, offering wonderful views of the Annapua and Dhaulagiri mountains. As you gain elevation, the landscapes become more dramatic and rewarding.

Upon reaching Khopra Danda, enjoy the stunning mountain panorama and peaceful surroundings. Spend the afteoon relaxing, exploring the area, or simply soaking in the incredible Himalayan views.

Walking time: 5–6 hours

Oveight: Tea house (3,660m)

Today is a rest day at Khopra Danda. You can take an optional hike to the sacred Khayer Lake or simply relax and enjoy the stunning mountain views. Spend the day exploring the area, resting, and soaking in the peaceful Himalayan atmosphere.

Walking time: 7-9 hours if hiked to Khayer lake

Oveight: Tea house (4,660m)

Today’s trek takes you from khopra danda to Dobato, a remote wildeess camp nestled amidst alpine meadows and rhododendron forests. As you ascend higher into the mountains, the landscape transitions from lush greenery to rugged terrain, offering glimpses of snow-capped peaks on the horizon. Take your time to soak in the pristine beauty of the natural surroundings and capture memorable photos of the towering Himalayan peaks. Arrive in Dobato by late afteoon and settle into your accommodation, where you can unwind and enjoy the tranquility of the mountain wildeess.

Walking time: 5-6 hours

Oveight: Tea house (3,420m)

Continue your descent from Dobato to Ghandruk, a beautiful Gurung village surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The trail passes through rhododendron forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. Arrive in Ghandruk by late afteoon, relax in the peaceful mountain setting, and experience the warm hospitality, culture, and lifestyle of the local Gurung community.

Walking time: 5-6 hours

Oveight: Tea house (2,012m)

After exploring Ghandruk, drive back to Pokhara, enjoying scenic countryside views along the way. Upon arrival, relax by the lakeside and unwind after your trekking jouey, reflecting on the memorable Himalayan experience.

Driving time: 3-4 hours

Oveight: Hotel (822m)

After breakfast, take a scenic drive back to Kathmandu from Pokhara on a tourist bus for small groups and private vehicle for larger groups, enjoying the beautiful views of the Nepalese countryside along the way. You’ll stop for lunch en route. The jouey takes around 6–8 hours by road. On arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel for a comfortable oveight stay.

Driving time: 6-8 hours

Oveight: Hotel (1,324m)

Today marks the end of your Khopra trekking adventure. Depending on your flight time, you will be assisted to the Tribhuvan Inteational Airport for your onward jouey to your beautiful homeland, taking unforgettable memories of Nepal and the Himalayas.


Want to Customize Your Trip?

We can tailor this trek to your schedule, comfort level, and interests.


Khopra Danda (Ridge) Trek Cost, Inclusions & Exclusions

What's Included

  • All airport pick up drop by private vehicles.
  • Experienced trekking guide and Porters.
  • 4 nights accommodation in a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu, Pokhara on BB plan.(Twin bedroom sharing)..
  • All transportation by tourist bus for small groups and private vehicle for larger groups from Kathmandu-Kathmandu
  • Full board service during the trek.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and ACAP permit.
  • Guide and porters foods, transportation, salaries, insurance.
  • All government and local taxes and official expenses.

What's Excluded

  • International airfare and Nepal entry visa fee.
  • Insurance (compulsory on all trips – ensure you are adequately covered for emergency evacuation).
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Spending of a personal expenses, e.g. laundry, shower, internet, battery charging,  snacks and bottle drinks, souvenirs, toiletries, tips, etc.

Essential Information of Khopra Danda (Ridge) Trek

Health & Safety

  • Altitude Management: While the sleeping altitude at Khopra Ridge (3,660m) is manageable, the hike to Khayer Lake reaches 4,660m. Maintain hydration (3-4 liters daily) and watch for early AMS symptoms like headaches or nausea.

  • Trail Navigation: Some sections between Swanta and Khopra are less trodden. Trekking with a licensed guide is highly recommended for safety and to support the local community lodges.

  • Water & Hygiene: Stick to boiled or treated water. High-altitude community lodges have limited medical supplies, so carry a personal first-aid kit with Diamox and blister plasters.

What to Expect

  • Accommodation: A unique mix of standard teahouses and community-run lodges. These are cozy but basic; profits often go back into local schools and village development.

  • Crowd Level: Significantly quieter than Annapurna Base Camp. You will often have the viewpoints and trails entirely to yourself.

Challenges

  • The "Ulleri Steps": The trek begins with a legendary climb of over 3,000 stone stairs.

  • Khayer Lake Push: The optional hike to the lake is a long, 7-9 hour round trip over steep, rocky terrain. It requires high physical endurance.


Starting from

€795

Per Person (Group Join)