Khopra Trek - 15 Days

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Khopra Trek
Trip Facts
  • Trip Duration15 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Maximum Altitude Kalibaraha Lake (4827m)
  • Activity Trekking
  • Starts/Ends Kathmandu / Kathmandu
  • Best Season February to May & September to Mid-December
Highlights
  • Enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Himchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)
  • Visit beautiful traditional villages like Ghandruk, Landruk, Tadapani, and Swanta
  • Peaceful and less crowded trekking route, perfect for those seeking quiet nature and authentic local culture
  • Experience sunrise and sunset from Khopra Danda and Poonhill, two of the best viewpoints in the Annapurna region
  • Day hike to the sacred Khayer Lake (Kalibaraha Lake) at 4,827 meters
  • Walk through beautiful rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and rich Himalayan landscapes
  • Stay in cozy local teahouses run by friendly villagers and taste freshly prepared Nepali meals
  • Explore Kathmandu’s cultural heritage before the trek and relax in Pokhara after completing the trek

Khopra Trek Overview 

The Khopra Ridge Trek via Ghandruk and Poonhill is a beautiful 15 days adventure trek that takes you through some of the most scenic parts of the Annapurna region. This trek offers a perfect mix of mountain views, charming villages, peaceful forests, and quiet trails, making it a great choice for trekkers looking for both natural beauty and cultural experiences.

Your trek begins in Kathmandu, where you will have some time for sightseeing and preparation. After that, you will head towards Pokhara and start your trek from Kande, reaching the lovely Australian Camp. From there, you will walk through peaceful villages like Landruk and the famous Ghandruk, known for its rich Gurung culture and stunning mountain views.

As you move higher, you will pass through Tadapani and Dobato, where you will start seeing even more incredible views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The trek then leads you to Chistibung and finally to Khopra Danda (3,660m), one of the best viewpoints of the entire trek. From here, you will also take a day hike up to the beautiful Kalibaraha Lake (also known as Khayer Lake) at 4,827m, which is both a spiritual and scenic highlight.

After Khopra, you will descend through Swanta village and continue towards Ghorepani. From Ghorepani, you will hike up early to Poonhill (3,210m) for a famous sunrise view before trekking back down to Pokhara, where your trek ends.

This 15 days trek gives you the chance to enjoy the best of the Annapurna region at a relaxed pace, with plenty of time to enjoy the views, local culture, and peaceful nature.


What can I expect to see at Khopra Danda (Ridge)?

At Khopra Danda, you will be standing on one of the best natural viewpoints in the Annapurna region. From the ridge, you can enjoy an incredible view of some of Nepal’s most famous mountains. Annapurna South feels very close, while Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Himchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) rise beautifully in the distance. When the weather is clear, you can see snow-capped peaks far across the horizon.

What makes Khopra Danda so special is how quiet and peaceful it feels compared to more crowded viewpoints like Poonhill. You can sit quietly, take your time, and fully enjoy the beauty of the Himalayas without many people around. It feels like having your own private view of the mountains.

If you wake up early, you can watch the sunrise as the first light slowly touches the peaks. Many trekkers say this is one of the most beautiful moments of the trek. In the evening, the sunset also creates beautiful colors as the mountains turn soft shades of pink and orange.

Along the trail, you may also see wildlife. Yaks often graze in the meadows nearby, and you might spot colorful Himalayan monal birds, eagles, or other birds flying in the sky.

The calm atmosphere, stunning views, and quiet surroundings make Khopra Danda one of the true highlights of the trek.


How difficult is the Khopra Trek?

The Khopra Ridge Trek is considered a moderate trek. You don’t need any technical climbing skills or special mountaineering experience, but you should be in decent physical shape and ready for several days of walking. Most of the trails are well-maintained and easy to follow, though you will definitely face some steady uphill climbs and long descents, especially as you get closer to Khopra Danda.

The highest point where you will stay overnight is at Khopra Danda (around 3,660 meters), which is not considered extremely high in the trekking world. This means the chance of altitude sickness is lower compared to treks like Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp. Still, it is always wise to take your time, stay hydrated, and allow your body to adjust naturally as you gain altitude.

Even if you are a first-time trekker, with a bit of preparation, a steady pace, and the support of a good guide, the Khopra Ridge Trek is a very enjoyable and adventurous experience. Many people are surprised how manageable it feels once they get into the daily rhythm of the trail.


What is the highest point (altitude) on Khopra Trek?

The highest point you will reach on the Khopra Ridge Trek is Kalibaraha Lake, also known as Khayer Lake, which sits at around 4,827m (5,836 ft) above sea level. This beautiful alpine lake lies just below Annapurna South and is a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists.

Local pilgrims believe that visiting the lake brings blessings, and during certain festivals, people from nearby villages hike up to perform religious rituals here. Standing at the lake, with the snowy peaks reflecting on the clear water, feels very peaceful and spiritual.

During the trek itself, the highest place where you will spend the night is at Khopra Danda. This viewpoint stands at about 3,660m (12,008 ft). From here, you can enjoy some of the most breathtaking mountain views, with Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Nilgiri, and Machhapuchhre all standing tall in front of you.

The hike from Khopra Danda up to Khayer Lake is usually done as a day trip. It is one of the more challenging parts of the trek because of the altitude and the steady climb. The round-trip takes about seven to nine hours depending on your pace. Since you will be going higher, it is very important to walk slowly, stay well-hydrated, and listen to your body. Being well-acclimatized before attempting this hike makes the experience much more enjoyable and safe.

For many trekkers, reaching Khayer Lake is one of the most memorable highlights of the entire journey. The combination of natural beauty, peaceful surroundings, and the feeling of standing close to some of the world’s highest peaks makes it truly special.


Why is Khayer (Kalibaraha) Lake considered sacred, and what is its historical importance?

Khayer Lake, also known as Kalibaraha Lake, is a high-altitude glacial lake located above Khopra Danda, sitting quietly at around 4,827 meters. While it may seem remote and untouched, for the local Gurung and Magar communities, this lake is deeply sacred and spiritually powerful.

Many locals believe that the lake is linked to Lord Shiva and Lord Baraha, one of the forms of Lord Vishnu. Every year, especially during the Janai Purnima festival in August, villagers from nearby districts like Myagdi, Kaski, and Baglung make a long and difficult journey to reach the lake. The festival brings hundreds of pilgrims to this hidden place, where they offer prayers, perform rituals, and sometimes sacrifice animals like goats to seek protection and blessings.

People also believe that taking a bath in the icy waters of Khayer Lake can cleanse one's sins and bring peace and healing. Even though there is no temple or big religious structure around the lake, small stone shrines can be found nearby, built by those who came to pay respect over the years.

If you stay at the community lodge in Khopra Danda, the staff or your guide might share stories passed down from their elders. They may tell you about people hiking barefoot to the lake, carrying offerings wrapped in cloth, or walking for days without food just to reach this holy place. Some even say that the lake never dries up, not even during the driest months of the year.

For trekkers, visiting Khayer Lake is not only a challenging day hike but also a chance to witness a powerful side of local belief and culture. 

ItineraryDay to Day Itinerary
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  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Max Altitude:1310m
  • Duration:45 minutes

A representative from Moon Himalaya Adventure will be at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) to welcome you and will transfer you to the hotel in a private vehicle. In the evening we will briefly describe the trip and the program.

  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Max Altitude:1310m
  • Duration:6/7 hrs

On the second day after having your breakfast, your tour guide will brief you about the Pikey Peak trek and cross-check the required gears you need for Pisang Peak climbing. In case you miss out on some gear you can buy or rent it. If you want then you can visit around the world heritage sites (Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bouddhanath, Pashupatinath, Swoyambhunath) but you have to pay entry fees on your own.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:2060m
  • Duration:7/8 hrs drive and 2 hrs walk

We'll be leaving Kathmandu today where the route follows alongside of Trishuli river en route to the scenic Kande, located at an elevation of 1,770m. Starting from Kande, we will climb to Australian Camp at 2060 meters to have our first look at the region's most stunning mountains, including Annapurna II (7937 meters), Annapurna III (7555 meters), Annapurna IV (7525 meters), and Machapuchare (6997 meters).

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:1565m
  • Duration:5/6 hrs

As we set out from Australian camp after breakfast, we take a little descent before beginning a gradual ascent. Our trail passes through a number of Gurung settlements, including Pothana and Tolkha, where local farm terraced fields on the mountain's rich southern slopes. After having lunch in Tolka, we continue on to the beautiful village of Landruk, which provides a breathtaking panorama of the valley below.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:1940m
  • Duration:3/4 hrs

The initial part of the trek involves a descent through terraced fields and small hamlets. The path can be stony in places. You'll cross the Modi Khola via a suspension bridge, which offers good views of the river and surrounding hills. After crossing the bridge, the trail begins a significant uphill climb towards Ghandruk. This section is well-maintained with stone steps for much of the way, but it can be strenuous. Throughout the day, you'll be treated to views of traditional Gurung villages, terraced farmlands, and glimpses of the Annapurna range, especially as you approach Ghandruk.  Ghandruk is a large and well-preserved traditional Gurung village. It's a great opportunity to experience local culture. From Ghandruk, you'll get stunning panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Gangapurna. Ghandruk has a few small Gurung museums that you can visit to learn more about the local way of life.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:2630m
  • Duration:4/5 hrs

The trek from Ghandruk to Tadapani is predominantly uphill, passing through dense rhododendron and oak forests. Much of the trail is shaded, which can be a welcome relief, especially on sunny days. The path can be rocky and root-strewn in places, typical of a forest trail. You might encounter small streams and seasonal waterfalls along the way. While the forest cover is dense, there are occasional clearings that offer tantalizing glimpses of the mountains. Tadapani is a smaller settlement than Ghandruk, but it has several teahouses that cater to trekkers. Facilities are more basic but comfortable. Tadapani is renowned for its magnificent, close-up views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. The sunrise views from Tadapani are particularly spectacular.

 

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:3420m
  • Duration:5/6 hrs

The trek begins after we have breakfast at Tadapani. Today we will make the ascent to Dobato, at an elevation of 3,420 meters. The route leads us through lush green forest and opens up to stunning panoramas of the Dhaulagiri Mountain ranges. The trail passes through some authentic Nepalese villages, providing an opportunity to learn about the traditions and culture of the local. It would take around 5 or 6 hours of walking to reach Dobato, where we will spend the night.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:3026m
  • Duration:4/5 hrs

Early in the morning, we will hike up to Mulde View Point to witness the beautiful sunrise over the mighty Himalayas. Amazing views of the surrounding mountains can be seen from the Mulde Peak hill station. From Dobato, the climb takes about half an hour. Incredible beauty can be seen as the sun rises over the Himalayas. You can get the opportunity to view numerous mountains, including Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m), Mt. Dhualagiri (8,167 m), Annapurna South, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Nilgiri, Dhampus Peak, Tukuche Peak, Himchuli, Gurja Himal, and countless other mountains. After that, we will descend to Dobato, have breakfast, and start our trek to Chhistibung. We will walk through the forest, taking in the beautiful views of the mountains.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:3660m
  • Duration:5/6 hrs

We will start our trek with a delicious breakfast and a steady ascent through alpine meadows and pastures to reach Khopra, which is located above the tree line. Once we reach Khopra, we take a short climb along Khopra Ridge to a view point where we can gaze down into the deep valley and see the Kali Gandaki river far below. We will also love to see the beautiful view of the Himalayas from Khopra, which includes Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Annapurna South.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:4827m
  • Duration:9/10 hrs

Following breakfast, we will start our hike to Kalibaraha Lake, which is located at an elevation of 4827 meters and offers spectacular views of Annapurna South and Bhara Shikhar mountains. Beautiful views of the surrounding mountains await you along the route. Annapurna South and Bhara Shikhar (Annapurna Fang) are the main sources of the holy Kalibaraha Lake. When there is a significant amount of snowfall, hikers are strongly advised to avoid the trail as it gets slippery. Due to its narrow path, the snow in this region takes a considerable amount of time to melt because it is shielded from direct sunlight. Then, we'll head back down to Khopra Danda.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:2512m
  • Duration:5/6 hrs

Today we will follow back the trail that we used while getting to the Khopra Danda. Half way we will walk down through the ridge and another half we will walk through the dense green forest to Swanta. We will spend the night at Swanta village.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:2860m
  • Duration:4/5 hrs

After having our breakfast, we will head towards Ghorepani. The trail follows the beautiful and peaceful green forest to Ghorepani.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Max Altitude:3210m
  • Duration:4/5 hrs walk and 2 hrs drive

On this day we will wake up early and will hike up to Poonhill to witness the amazing sunrise over the Himalaya. The view is breathtaking when the rays of sun touches the Himlayas. Annapurna (8091m), Dhaulagiri (8167m) and other peaks including Machhapuchhre (6997m), Gangapurna (7454m), Lamjung Himal (6986m), and others in the Annapurna range can be seen from Poon hill viewpoint. Then we will return to Ghorepani for breakfast. After that, we continue to walk up to Nayapul and take a vehicle to reach pokhara.

  • Meals:Breakfast & lunch
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Max Altitude:1310m
  • Duration:6/7 hrs drive

You will return to Kathmandu which takes around 7 hours of drive. After arriving Kathmandu, you will be transferred to hotel. You can take rest or visit around Thamel. In evening you will have farewell dinner with your guide.

  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Max Altitude:1310m
  • Duration:45 minutes

According to your flight representative from Moon Himalaya Advenutre will drop you at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) for final departure.

Cost DetailsWhat's Included
  • Airport pick up and drop.
  • Three-night hotel in Kathmandu.
  • one night hotel in Pokhara.
  • Ground Transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara to Kande and from Nayapul to Pokhara to Kathmandu for our client.
  • Three meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trek.
  • Accommodation during the trek.
  • Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
  • Ground Transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara to Kande and from Nayapul to Pokhara to Kathmandu for the guide and porter.
  • One expert government license holder trekking guide.
    (For 1 to 4 clients there will be 1 guide)
  • For 2 clients there will be 1 Porter.
    (The baggage of 1 client should be 10kg to12kg only)
  • Food, accommodation, salary and trekking insurance for the guide
  • Food, accommodation, salary and trekking insurance for the porter.
  • First aid kit.
  • All necessary government taxes.
  • Certificate of accomplishment of Khopra trek.
  • Office service charge.
  • Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service which will be paid by client's travel insurance company.
What's Excluded
  • Nepal entry visa fee (you may easily issue the visa upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport – Kathmandu). You will require 2 passport size photos.
  • Your Travel insurance (compulsory).
  • Food (lunch and dinner) while you are in Kathmandu.
  • Hotel in Kathmandu that goes beyond the scheduled program.
  • Your personal expenses and entrance fees while you do the tour in Kathmandu.
  • Entry fees in Monastries, temples, Museum.
  • Your personal expenses, shopping, donation to monasteries or school, wifi, laundry etc
  • All the alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
  • Sweet things like chocolate bars.
  • Internet, hot shower and battery charging during the trek.
  • International airfare and airport departure tax.
  • Tips for guide, porters and staffs.
  • Things that go beyond "cost includes" list.
  • Any Additional cost due to Nature calamity and Unforeseen Circumstances etc.

 

Useful InformationGood to Know

Best Time to Do Khopra Ridge Trek via Ghandruk and Poonhill

The best time to do the Khopra Ridge Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons.

In spring, the weather is pleasant, the skies are usually clear, and the rhododendron forests along the trail are in full bloom, adding beautiful colors to the trek. In autumn, the weather is stable with clear views of the mountains, making it perfect for photography and comfortable trekking.

Winter (December to February) is also possible if you don’t mind colder temperatures and some snow at higher points. Summer/monsoon (June to August) brings heavy rain, slippery trails, and limited mountain views, so it’s not the best time for this trek.


Required Permits for Khopra Ridge Trekking in Annapurna Region

To trek the Khopra Ridge route, you will need two permits:

  1. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): This permit allows you to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area, which includes the Khopra Ridge trail. The cost is USD 30 per person. You can obtain it from the Nepal Tourism Board offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara, or online via the official e-permit portal.

  2. Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card: This card is required for all trekkers in Nepal and helps ensure your safety by keeping track of trekkers in the region. The cost is USD 20 per person. TIMS cards can be obtained through registered trekking agencies.

The permits are included in our package cost, and we will handle all the paperwork for you. However, if you are trekking independently, you can apply for the permits yourself at the Nepal Tourism Board offices.


Accommodation and Food Options Available During Khopra Ridge Trek

During the Khopra Ridge Trek, you will stay mostly in local teahouses and lodges that are run by local families along the route. The rooms are simple but clean, usually with two single beds, warm blankets, pillows, and basic furniture.

At lower elevations, especially in villages like Ghandruk, Landruk, and Tadapani, some lodges offer a bit more comfort with attached bathrooms, hot showers, and even Wi-Fi in certain places. As you go higher toward Dobato, Chistibung, and Khopra Danda, the teahouses become more basic but still provide a cozy and friendly environment.

At Khopra Danda, there is a community-run lodge where many trekkers stay. The atmosphere here is very warm and welcoming, and the staff often go out of their way to make sure you feel comfortable. The views from the teahouse itself are incredible, especially during sunrise and sunset, and you can enjoy them right from your dining area or even your room window.

When it comes to food, the teahouses serve a good variety of home-cooked meals. The most common and filling choice is the traditional Nepali dal bhat, which includes rice, lentils, vegetables, and sometimes pickles or meat. Many trekkers prefer dal bhat because it is freshly cooked, unlimited in many places, and provides plenty of energy for trekking. Besides dal bhat, you will find other options like fried noodles, soups, fried rice, momos (dumplings), pancakes, eggs, chapati, porridge, and even some pasta or pizza in the lower regions.

As you go higher, the menu may become a bit more limited, and prices can rise slightly because everything has to be carried up by porters or transported by mules. Drinking water, snacks, and soft drinks are also available at most teahouses, but it’s a good idea to carry a reusable water bottle with purification tablets or a filter. Bringing some of your favorite snacks from Pokhara or Kathmandu is also helpful for quick energy on the trail.

Overall, while the facilities are simple, the warm hospitality, freshly prepared meals, and cozy teahouses create a very comfortable and authentic trekking experience in the mountains.


Combining Khopra Ridge Trek with Annapurna Circuit or Mardi Himal

Yes, it’s possible to combine the Khopra Ridge Trek with both the Annapurna Circuit or Mardi Himal Trek if you have enough time and want to explore more of the Annapurna region.

  • With Annapurna Circuit: After completing the main circuit or parts of it, you can add Khopra Ridge as an extra side trip. This gives you more variety in landscapes, with both high mountain passes and peaceful ridge walks.

  • With Mardi Himal: Mardi Himal and Khopra Ridge both start near Pokhara, so you can easily combine them into one longer trek. First, you can do Mardi Himal, then continue towards Ghandruk and follow the trail to Khopra Ridge. This way, you get to experience two beautiful but quieter trails in the Annapurna region.

Combining these treks gives you a chance to see different viewpoints, landscapes, and cultures, making your trip even more special. If you want to customize your trek and add these options, feel free to contact us or reach out to us on WhatsApp. We are available 24/7.

ReviewsWhat Our Clients Says?
  • First trip to Nepal

    For our first trip to Nepal my fiance and I went on a 10 day trek with Lacchu and Pemba from Moon Himalaya and we couldn't have asked for a better trip. The guides were helpful and organised, always willing to support us, answer any questions and keep us safe while also ensuring we had a super fun time along the way! They put a huge priority on honesty and transparency, allowing us to be flexible on our trip while offering their expert point of view on the best things to do and ways to maximise our time.

    Coming from Sydney, Australia we weren't sure about the altitude and difficulty, but Lacchu talked us through our experience and eased us in perfectly. We've already been plotting our trip back for something bigger next time.

    From 8000m peaks to short treks and everything in between, you can be sure Moon Himalaya will create the perfect time for you. We will surely be headed back.

    A
    Alec WaleckiUnited States,November 21, 2023
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