Khopra Ridge Trek
Khopra Ridge Trek: A Journey to Himalayan Majesty!!
The Khopra Ridge Trek is a unique and off-the-beaten trail in the Annapurna Region, connecting with other popular treks like the Mardi Himal Trek, Annapurna Base Camp, and Ghorepani Poon Hill. This trail offers a 360-degree panorama of the Annapurna giants, passing through unspoiled Magar and Gurung villages and pristine forests.
Starting from the Gurung villages of Ghandruk, Tadapani, and Dobato, the trail crosses small villages of Bayeli and Chistibung before heading to Khopra Ridge or Khopra Danda. An extra day can be spent hiking to Khayer Lake, a sacred mountain lake close to Annapurna South and an important pilgrimage site. The trek is well-marked and offers a peaceful experience, making it a must-try for trekkers or locals.
Trip Overview
Duration: 11 Days 
Trip Type: Group 
Max Altitude: Khayer lake (4500 m) 
Accomodation: Hotel / Lodge or Teahouse 
Start: Kathmandu
End: Kathmandu 
Meals: European Plan Outline Itinerary
Kathmandu (Arrival) – Transfer to Hotel (Private Transfer)
Kathmandu – Pokhara (Drive – Private Transfer)
Pokhara (822m; 6 hrs)Pokhara – Ghandruk (Drive – Private Transfer) – Tadapani
Ghandruk (1951m; 2 hrs) Tadapani (2610 m; 4 hrs)Tadapani – Dobato
Dobato (3350 m; 5 hrs)Dobato – Chistibung
Chistibung (2975 m; 5 hrs)Chistibung – Khopra Ridge
Khayer lake (4500 m) Khopra Ridge (3660 m; 8 hrs)Khayer Lake – Swanta Village
Swanta Village (2214 m; 5 hrs)Swanta Village – Ghorepani
Ghorepani (2874m; 5 hrs)Ghorepani – Poon Hill (Hike) – Pokhara (Drive – Private Transfer)
Poon Hill (3210 m; 2 hrs) Pokhara (822; 2 hrs)Pokhara – Kathmandu (Drive – Private Transfer)
Kathmandu (1400 m; 6 hrs)Kathmandu (Departure)
Price Inclusion
- Airport transfers (Domestic/ International) on a tourist vehicle
- Private tourist vehicle (Kathmandu / Pokhara / Kathmandu) and Private Jeep (Pokhara / Ghandruk) (Ghorepani/ Pokhara)
- Entire accommodation during the trek – 2 nights at hotel in Kathmandu, 2 nights at hotel in Pokhara, and 7 nights in lodges/guesthouse during trek to Khopra Ridge
- Hotel breakfast during the stay at Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Experienced, government licensed, English-speaking or another language trekking guide
- All necessary permits for Annapurna Conservation Area and TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
- Porters during the trek for carrying luggage (1 porter for every 2 pax)
- All government taxes and administrative expenses
- Local staff insurances
Price Exclusion
- International flight tickets and Nepal Entry Visa
- Personal travel insurance
- Any meal during the trek
- Any expenses of a personnel nature, e.g., telephone calls, laundry, table drinks, etc.
- Any Tips to Guides, Drivers, and Trekking Staffs
- Any entrance fees for cameras and video cameras at the monuments
- Any other services not mentioned above
- Cost of any emergency evacuation, strikes, etc.
Detail Itinerary
Expand AllKathmandu (Arrival) – Transfer to Hotel (Private Transfer)
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, our representative will be waiting at the airport for your welcome. Then board a private vehicle and be transferred to your hotel. Check into your hotel and rest after your journey.
Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to explore ancient temples and vibrant markets and experience the unique atmosphere of Nepalese urban life.
Kathmandu – Pokhara (Drive – Private Transfer)
Early in the morning, your trekking guides will pick you up from your hotel and head towards your destination. Board on a scenic drive to Pokhara, a picturesque lakeside city surrounded by the panorama of the Annapurna and Machapuchare mountain ranges. Pokhara not only offers serene lakes, caves, and stunning viewpoints but is also a gateway to adventure tourism in the Annapurna region.
Pokhara – Ghandruk (Drive – Private Transfer) – Tadapani
After breakfast at your hotel, you will start your drive to Ghandruk from Pokhara. The drive towards Ghandruk takes around 2 hours with scenic views of the white Seti River on the way. Upon your arrival at the traditional Gurung village, Ghandruk, you will have a short tour. You will learn about the authentic Gurung culture and have a traditional lunch at Ghandruk.
Then, you will have a short trek towards Tadapnai. You will follow the trail with lush forest of rhododendron with scenic views of Annapurna South, Machhpuchhre, and Hiunchuli. A steepy uphill trails will take around 4 hours to reach Tadapani where the colorful prayer flays will greet you.
Tadapani – Dobato
Today, you will follow trail through a dense forest of rhododendron. Then, you will have a beautiful walk on a ridgeline which offer an inspiring view of Himalayas and green valley’s towards Dobato.
After arrival in Dobato you will get some rest and then go for a 25 to 20 minutes of walk towards a viewpoint known as Muldai Viewpoint, from where you can experience a magnificent sunset over the Annapurna range. After enjoying the sunset, you will hike down to your lodge.
Dobato – Chistibung
You will have a descend and ascend the ridges and pass through the dense rhododendron forest towards Chistibung. The trail offers unique flora and fauna with diverse terrains and small villages on the way Chistibung, a small village inhabited by Gurung and Magar communities. On this village you can learn and experience the local culture of Gurung and Magar community.
Chistibung – Khopra Ridge
After breakfast, you will follow the trail on the ridges which is short but steep uphill towards Khopra Danda. After a short hour of trek, you will reach Khopra ridge with panoramic views of majestic mountain form Annapurna South, Nilgiri and the Dhaulagiri.
As, you reach the Khopra ridge, you will be welcome with the views of Dhaulagiri ranges along the trail. After enjoying the views, you will hike to Khayer Lake with many ascending and descending along the ridge for around 2 hours. On the walk, you will witness Mt. Tukuche, Mt. Nilgiri and the world;s deepest valley Kaligandaki also.
Then, you will follow the trail with open fields and surrounded by barren mountains towards Khayer Lake. Once you reach the lake, the Annapurna South stands before you. The khayer lakes holds religious importance surrounded by praying flays, bells and a temple where many people visit this lake during the July to seek fulfillment of wishes.
After enjoying the views and exploring the area, you will hikie back to Khopra ridge, as there is no teahouse near Khyaer lake. Once, you reach Khopra ridge you will witness a amazing sunset view.
Khayer Lake – Swanta Village
With a beautiful sunrise view, you will start your day and after breakfast you will have an easy descending trek to Swanta Village. You will follow the trail crossing farmlands and terrace lands. Once you reach Swanta village, you will witness a small village is populated by Magar tribe. During your stay in Swanta village, you will learn about the culture and lifestyle of Magar communites.
Swanta Village – Ghorepani
Today, your trail will lead you through the dense forest and terrace lands towards Ghorepani. On the way, you will cross the river through the suspension bridge and uphill path through the dense forest of rhododendron. After reaching Gorepani, you will witness the impressive views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range.
Ghorepani – Poon Hill (Hike) – Pokhara (Drive – Private Transfer)
Early morning, you will go for a hike to Poon Hill (3210m), a famous vantage point offering panoramic views of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri range, Mt. Nilgiri, Mt. Machhapuchhre, Hiuchuli, Tharpachuli, Tukuche Peak, and other surrounding snow-capped mountains.
After witnessing a spectacular sunrise over the mountains, you will head towards Ghorepani, have breakfast, and then drive towards Pokhara. After you reach to Pokhara, you will get fresh and go for a evening walk on the lakeside.
Pokhara – Kathmandu (Drive – Private Transfer)
After having breakfast, you will drive back to Kathamndu. The ride takes you through stunning terrain, little villages, and the Marsyangdi and Trishuli rivers on the way. After reaching Kathmandu, you will be escorted towards the hotel, and in the evening, you will have a farewell dinner.
Kathmandu (Departure)
Depending on your flight schedule, our representative will escort you towards the airport. Before your fight schedule starts, you may have some free time in Kathmandu for last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Why you'll love this trip
- Short, off-the-beaten-path trek with 360-degree Himalayan views.
- Offers panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna Massif, Hiunchuli, and other peaks.
- Offers inspiring sunrise views from Khopra Ridge, Poon Hill, and Muldai Viewpoint.
- Visits Khayer Lake, a sacred high-altitude lake near Annapurna South.
- Experience typical Nepalese hillside trekking through Gurung villages, paddy fields, and rhododendron forests.
When To Visit
The spring, from early March to late May, or the fall, from late September to early November, are the best seasons for going on the Khopra Ridge Trek. There are bright skies, comfortable temperatures, and stunning views of the neighboring mountain ranges during these times of stable weather. Autumn gives crisp, dry air and colorful scenery, while spring brings rich rhododendron flowers. Perfect trekking conditions are available in both seasons, guaranteeing a fulfilling and unforgettable trip among the breathtaking Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountain ranges. Avoid the winter months (December to February), when the trails may be covered in snow and the temperatures can be quite low. The monsoon season (June to August) is also to be avoided due to heavy rains.
Cannot see your date or not satisfied with the itinerary? We may be able to add new trip dates.
Contact UsElevation Chart
FAQs for Khopra Ridge Trek
How difficult is the Khopra Ridge trek?
The Khopra Ridge trek is considered moderate in difficulty. It involves several steep ascents and descents, but it’s achievable for most reasonably fit individuals with some hiking experience.
Is it necessary to hire a guide for the Khopra Ridge trek?
While it’s not mandatory to hire a guide, it’s highly recommended, especially for those unfamiliar with the area or trekking in Nepal. A guide can provide valuable insights, ensure safety, and navigate the route effectively.
What is the accommodation like along the Khopra Ridge trek?
Accommodation options along the trail range from basic tea houses to more comfortable lodges. The facilities can vary, but most provide simple meals, clean beds, and basic amenities like shared bathrooms.
Are there any health concerns to consider during Khopra Ridge trek?
Altitude sickness is a potential concern as you ascend to higher elevations. It’s essential to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and listen to your body. Carrying Diamox (acetazolamide) tablets for altitude sickness prevention is also advisable, but consult a doctor before use.
