The Khopra Danda Trek, also known as the Khopra Ridge Trek, is one of the most scenic and less-crowded treks in the Annapurna region of Nepal. This trek is famous for its breathtaking ridge-top views, dramatic landscapes, and authentic village experiences, making it an excellent alternative to the busy Ghorepani–Poon Hill route.
The trek offers uninterrupted panoramic views of some of the highest mountains in Nepal, including Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).
Overview
The trek usually starts from Nayapul or Ghandruk, following forest trails and traditional villages such as Tadapani and Dobato. From Dobato, the trail branches off the main route and climbs gradually to Khopra Danda, a spectacular ridge located high above deep valleys.
Trekkers can optionally hike to Khayer Lake, a holy alpine lake revered by Hindu pilgrims. The trek then descends through remote villages before returning to Pokhara.
Trip Highlights
- Beautiful forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine.
- Optional hike to sacred Khayer Lake.
- Community-run lodges supporting local development.
- Traditional Gurung and Magar villages.
- Less crowded trails compared to Ghorepani.
- Close-up views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna massifs.
- Spectacular sunrise and sunset views from Khopra Ridge.
Itinerary
Our agent will meet and greet you at Tribhuwan International Airport. He will provide you with a private trip to the hotel and assist you with check-in. After a long travel, you can choose to unwind at your hotel or go on sightseeing to uncover some of Kathmandu's lovely places. You will meet your guide during the Everest Alpine Trekking briefing, where he will provide you with information on the Khopra Ridge Community Trek and any gear you may be missing.
Travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Enjoy views of rivers, hills, and rural villages during the journey. Overnight in Pokhara.
Accommodation: Hotel.
Meals: Breakfast.
Drive to Nayapul and begin trekking through terraced fields and forests. Ascend gradually to Ghandruk, a beautiful Gurung village with close views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.
Accommodation: Tea house.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Walk through rhododendron and oak forests with occasional mountain views. Tadapani is a popular viewpoint for Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.
Accommodation: Tea house.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Leave the main trekking trail and follow a quieter path toward Dobato. Enjoy peaceful forests and fewer trekkers. Optional early-morning hike to Muldai Viewpoint for panoramic mountain views.
Accommodation: Community lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
The trail climbs gradually through alpine forest and open ridges. Upon reaching Khopra Danda, enjoy breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Nilgiri, and Annapurna South from the ridge.
Accommodation: Community lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
An early start for the most challenging day. The trail ascends steadily to the sacred Khayer Lake, surrounded by towering peaks. After spending time at the lake, descend back to Khopra Danda.
Accommodation: Community lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Descend through beautiful forest and pastureland to Swanta, a traditional Magar village. Enjoy warm hospitality and village life.
Accommodation: Tea house / Homestay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Trek to Ulleri, passing waterfalls and stone staircases. Drive back to Pokhara and relax after the trek.
Accommodation: Hotel.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch.
Drive or fly back to Kathmandu. Trip ends.
Meals: Breakfast
Today marks the conclusion of our trip to Nepal, Everest Alpine Trekking representative will drive you to the airport around three hours before takeoff. If you have enough time for another trip, we can organize that for you too.
Cost Includes
- Airport pick-up and drop-off in Kathmandu (if required).
- Transportation as per itinerary.
- (Kathmandu–Pokhara–Kathmandu by tourist bus or flight; Pokhara–trek start point–Pokhara by private vehicle).
- Accommodation during the trek in tea houses and community lodges (twin sharing).
- All meals during the trek.
- (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner with tea/coffee).
- Licensed, experienced English-speaking trekking guide.
- Porer service (1 porter for 2 trekkers) including salary, food, accommodation, and insurance.
- All required trekking permits:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
- TIMS Card.
- First-aid medical kit carried by the guide.
- Community lodge fees and local taxes.
- Government taxes, service charges, and office expenses.
Cost Excludes
- International airfare to and from Nepal.
- Nepal visa fee.
- Travel and medical insurance.
- (must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation).
- Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (lunch & dinner).
- Personal expenses such as:
- Drinks (hot/cold, alcoholic beverages).
- Bottled water.
- Snacks and energy bars.
- Hot showers, Wi-Fi, battery charging.
- Personal trekking equipment.
- (boots, sleeping bag, down jacket, trekking poles, etc.).
- Tips and gratuities for guide and porters (customary but optional).
- Extra accommodation or transport costs due to weather, strikes, or itinerary changes.
- Any expenses not mentioned in the “Cost Includes” section.
FAQS
The trek is located in the Annapurna region of Nepal, west of Pokhara. Khopra Danda is a ridge offering panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Nilgiri, and other Himalayan peaks. The optional Khayer Lake is a sacred alpine lake at 4,660m.
The full Khopra Danda + Khayer Lake Trek usually takes 8–10-11 days, depending on your starting point and pace. Shorter 6–7 day versions are also possible.
01: Khopra Danda: 3,660m
02: Khayer Lake: 4,660m (optional side trip)
The trek is moderate to challenging. While Khopra Danda itself is a moderate ridge trek, the Khayer Lake hike involves steep uphill trails and higher altitude, requiring good physical fitness and stamina.
Khopra Danda only: Yes, for physically fit beginners with basic trekking experience.
Khopra + Khayer Lake: Suitable for intermediate trekkers due to higher altitude and longer hiking days.
Daily walking ranges from 4–6 hours, depending on altitude gain and trail conditions.
01: Tea houses and lodges in villages along the route
02: Community-run lodges at Khopra Ridge
03: Accommodation is basic but clean, with shared rooms and bedding
Meals include:
01: Nepali food (dal bhat, curry, rice, lentils)
02: Tibetan-style bread, noodles, soups
03: Simple Western dishes in some lodges
04: Tea and coffee are usually included with meals; bottled drinks cost extra
Yes, trekkers need:
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
TIMS Card.
01: Spring (March–May): Rhododendron blooms, clear skies.
02: Autumn (September–November): Stable weather, clear mountain views.
03: Winter trekking is possible, but Khopra Ridge can be cold, and snow may make trails slippery. Monsoon season (June–August) is not recommended.
Yes, especially if visiting Khayer Lake (4,660m). Proper acclimatization, slow ascent, hydration, and listening to your body are essential. Guides are trained to manage altitude sickness.
While not mandatory, hiring a licensed, experienced trekking guide is highly recommended due to:
01: Remote location
02: Trail navigation
03: Altitude safety
04: Cultural interpretation
Yes, Khopra Danda is often combined with Ghorepani–Poon Hill or Australian Camp for a longer trekking experience.
Yes, with proper preparation, a licensed guide, and trekking insurance covering high-altitude emergencies and helicopter evacuation.
01: Less crowded than Poon Hill.
02; Stunning ridge-top panoramic views.
03; Sacred Khayer Lake side trip.
04: Community-based lodges supporting local development.
05: Peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experience.
Khopra Danda Trek Map
