Khopra Ridge Trek, also known as Khopra Danda Trek, is a recently opened trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal, offering an isolated journey away from the hustle and bustle of crowded trails.

Furthermore, the Khopra Ridge Trek offers several stunning vistas of majestic snow-capped mountains like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Himchuli, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, and Lamjung Himal. Also, this trek leads you to the sacred Khayer Lake, also called the Khopra Danda Khayer Lake Trek.

Similarly, we will traverse through rural villages, swift rivers, farmlands, and dense rhododendron forests, where we may spot rare species of birds and wildlife. Additionally, this trek promises a picturesque journey through traditional Nepali villages with their distinctive Gurung, Magar, and Thakali cultural heritage.

Our Khopra Ridge Trek commences in Pokhara with a scenic bus ride or flight from Kathmandu. On the journey from Pokhara to Ghandruk, you are treated to breathtaking views of the perpetually white Seti River. Then, we’ll make a stop at Nayapul for essential permit check-ins, followed by a brief exploration and lunch break in Ghandruk.

To access Khopra Ridge, we’ll need to traverse three trails: Tadapani to Dobato, Dobato to Chistibung, and Chistibung to Khopra Ridge.

The trails surrounding Tadapani wind through verdant forests, providing picturesque vistas of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli. This sight will leave you awe-struck. Our next destination is Dobato, a dense forest trek with rugged terrain and wildlife encounters that add a rewarding dimension to this adventure.

We can rest for a brief moment in Dobato before making our way to Muldae Viewpoint. Muldae viewpoint presents a stunning panorama of the majestic Annapurna, showcasing stunning sunsets and sunrises. After our surreal experience from the Muldae viewpoint, we will head to Chistibung.

As we journey through dense rhododendron forests, we’ll encounter diverse wildlife amidst moderate inclines and declines, enjoying stunning views along the way!

Furthermore, in Chistibung, a small village houses both the Gurung and Magar communities, each rich in unique cultures. Here, a charming tea house awaits us, offering a serene pause before our next adventure.

Arriving at the ridge offers us a phenomenal vista of dignified mountain peaks like Annapurna, South Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri. Along the Dhaulagiri range, we will visit Khayer Lake and witness the world’s deepest valley, Kaligandaki. Additionally, we will find a few tea houses along the route where we can stop by for a quick snack break.

During the trek to Khayer Lake, we’ll encounter numerous temples, adorned with bells, and immerse ourselves in mythological tales. This destination serves as a beacon for spiritual seekers and the devout alike. Following our picturesque hike to Khopra Ridge, it’s now time to journey back to Pokhara using an alternative route from the one we took to get here.

We’ll make two stops along the way back to Pokhara: from Khopra Ridge to Swanta Village, and then from Swanta Village to Ghorepani, before finally reaching Pokhara.

Our descent will lead us to Swanta village, a Magar-inhabited community. Then, our path will lead us through picturesque landscapes, a suspension bridge river crossing, and a lush forest with vibrant rhododendrons. As we approach Ghorepani, we are greeted by the breathtaking vistas of Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna range.

Now, before reaching Pokhara, we will detour to Phoolhill, where we will witness the mesmerizing sunrise over the panoramic views of Fishtail Mountain, Annapurna Mountain, Nilgiri Mountain, and Dhaulagiri. Then, after breakfast, we will embark on a trek to Hile, pausing along the way for a delightful lunch break at one of the inviting teahouses or lodges.

With just one more stop at Nayapul for permit checks, our journey culminates in Pokhara, concluding an unforgettable adventure in the Nepalese wilderness.

Transportation

Bus, Flight
Best Season

Autumn and Spring
Trip Type

Off the Beaten

Overview

Itinerary

FAQs

Overview

Itinerary

FAQs

Overview

Trip Higlights

Khopra Ridge Trek offers stunning views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and other snow-capped peaks in the Annapurna region of Nepal
Trek through remote villages, and dense rhododendron forests and encounter diverse wildlife along the way
Experience traditional Nepali culture in Gurung, Magar, and Thakali villages along the trekking route
Witness breathtaking sunsets and sunrises from Muldae viewpoint and Phoolhill
Explore the sacred Khayer Lake and encounter mythological symbols and temples
Conclude the advantage with a memorable sunrise over Fishtail Mountain before returning to Pokhara

Itinerary

Day 1:

Arrival at Kathmandu Airport

Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, your representative will be waiting to greet you at the airport. Afterward, you will be guided to your hotel, where they will provide you with a brief overview of your trip. Following this, you are free to either rest for the day or venture out to explore the city at your leisure.

Day 2:

To journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara, we have two options: flying or taking the bus. Opting for a flight means a swift 25 minutes with a breathtaking view of towering peaks amidst ethereal clouds.

Alternatively, a bus route traverses through lust forest, showcasing the rugged beauty of mountains and the vibrant local communities. Upon arrival in Pokhara, we are greeted with the majestic mountain panorama. Additionally, we can embark on a serene boat excursion.

Day 3:

Day 3: Drive from Pokhara-Ghandruk and Trek to Tadapani
Today we will journey to Ghandruk on a 2.5-hour bus ride with a stunning view of the Seti River’s immaculate beauty unfolding alongside the road. Stopping by Nayapul, we will check on our permit before arriving at Chandruk. Here, we will explore the village predominantly inhabited by the Gurung community.

Afterward, we will embark on a trek toward Tadapani, adorned with breathtaking views of Annapurna South, Machhpuchre, and Hiunchuli. Depending on our pace, reaching Tadapani will take us approximately 4-5 hours. After our exploration, we will rest for the night in one of the Tadapani’s teahouses.

Day 4:

Tadapani to Dobato

Our journey today starts with a satisfying breakfast before embarking on a trek towards Dobato, passing through forests and steep hills, and offering a glimpse of local wildlife along the way. After several hours of trekking, we will stop by a teahouse for a well-deserved lunch break.

After a 6-hour trek, we reach Dobato. Settling into a teahouse, we then take a brief 15-20 minute hike to Muldae Viewpoint, offering breathtaking views of sunrise and sunset over the Annapurna range. This scenic vista is also a highlight of the Khopra Ridge Trek.

Day 5:

Dobato to Chistibung

Our day begins with a hike to Muldae Peak, where we will witness the breathtaking sunrise. Afterward, we will head towards Chistibung, traversing through a dense forest filled with colorful rhododendrons. Along the path, we will encounter diverse wildlife and pass by small settlements.

We will take a short break at teahouses to rejuvenate along the way. After trekking through a series of ascents and descents for 6-7 hours, we will arrive at Chistibung, a small village inhabited by the Gurung and Magar communities. Here, we immerse ourselves in the local culture and hospitality, staying at a teahouse accommodation.

Day 6:

Chistibung to Khopra Ridge

Today we will trek to Khopra Ridge through a steep yet brief uphill trail. After 3.5 hours of trekking, we will arrive at Khopra Danda, where we can enjoy panoramic views of majestic mountains like Annapurna South and Nilgiri. Afterward, we head to Khayer Lake, the world’s deepest valley. Here, we can relax and replenish our energy in the small teahouse.

Ascending towards Khayer Lake, we will encounter different symbols of temples and bells, which hold significant religious importance. In July, many pilgrims visit the lake to seek blessings. We then descend to Khopra Ridge, which takes about 3.5 hours and offers stunning sunset views.

Day 7:

Khopra Ridge to Swanta Village

Following a hearty breakfast, we will descend toward Swanta Village, a leisurely trek lasting 5 to 6 hours. Along the way, we will stumble across Kharka, nested an hour’s away from the village of Chistibung. Here, we will stop for a delightful lunch before resuming our trek towards Swanta Village. This hidden gem, predominantly inhabited by the Magar community, offers stunning scenery yet remains relatively undiscovered.

Day 8:

Swanta Village to Ghorepani

From Swanta Village, our next destination is Ghidepani. The trail unfolds across the flat land, followed by the terrace field, and spans a suspension bridge over a river. We will mostly ascend through dense rhododendron forest, leading us to Ghorepani after 6 hours of hiking. Ghorepani presents impressive views of Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna range. We will settle her for the night.

Day 9:

Ghorepani to Pokhara, after trek to Poonhill

Before returning to Pokhara, we will hike up to Poonhill for sunrise. Following a 45-minute to an-hour ascent, we will be greeted by the breathtaking view of sunrise amidst Fishtail Mountain, Annapurna Mountain, Nilgiri Mountain, and the Dhaulagiri.

After soaking in the breathtaking vista, we will descend to the lodge for breakfast, then head out to Pokhara via Hile. We will stop by this quaint town for lunch, and after a 2.5-hour jeep ride, we will reach Pokhara, with a brief permit check at Nayapul along the way.