13 Days
Quick Facts
Ground transportation in Nepal
Hotels & tea-house accommodation
All meals except in Kathmandu
Guided tour & trek throughout the trip
Autumn, Spring
Moderate
Nepal
3,600 m
Kathmandu - Pokhara - Khopra - Pokhara - Kathmandu
Why Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek?
- Could you walk through Khayar Lake?
- Sacrosanct pioneer spot for Hindu individuals.
- You can catch the dazzling perspectives on Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhre, and Annapurna I.
- In Springtime, you will stroll through the rhododendron bloom forest.
- I am coming to Khopra Ridge (3660 meters) through high meadows and green fields.
Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek Overview
The Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek is one of the most alluring treks in the Annapurna region and a great choice for someone looking to try a short trek. The trail is attractively located off the beaten track, so whilst the Annapurna region is inundated with trekkers year-round, a few venture to the Kopra Ridge.
So it is the perfect choice for anyone wanting a private journey through the still-untouched Himalayas. Whilst it may be a less well-known trek, it still offers all the delights one could wish for from an Everest trekking experience, including local wildlife, panoramic mountain scenery, a beautifully dense forest, insight into Nepali culture and spirituality, and much more
Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek
You will follow the popular Annapurna trail for the first two days of your trek. However, from the third day onward, you will be taken off the central route and diverted through dense forests and remote villages until you reach the hidden spots towards Kopra Ridge (3,660m).
This Khopra trekking trail is famous as the Khayar Tal trek route. The highlight of this trek is Khayar Tal, a small glacial lake in the Southern Part of the stunning Annapurna region. This pristine lake lies just before the Himalayas and remains frozen for over half the year.
It is about 5 km from the Kopra Danda, which is usually visited on the rest day. There aren’t any hotels or restaurants around the Khayar Tal trek. The mountains visible from the Kopre Danda are:
Mount Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Nilgiri (7061m), Bharha Shikhar (7647m), Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South (7219m), Hiunchuli (6434m), Fishtail (6997m), Annapurna II (7937m), Annapurna IV (7525m), Lamjung Himal (6983m).
Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek Route Overview
The Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek begins with the journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara before continuing by road toward the trekking trailhead. The walking section passes through traditional Gurung villages and forested hills before reaching the higher settlements of the Annapurna region.
The route generally connects areas around Ghandruk, Tadapani, Dobato or Bayeli Kharka, Chistibung and Khopra Ridge, depending on the selected itinerary. Khopra Ridge is the main high point of the standard trek and sits at approximately 3,660 meters. From the ridge, trekkers can enjoy views toward Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri and surrounding Himalayan peaks.
An optional excursion to Khayer Lake takes the route considerably higher, reaching approximately 4,660 meters. After returning from the higher section, the trail descends through settlements such as Swanta and Ghorepani before continuing toward Pokhara. The exact route and overnight stops should follow the confirmed 13 day itinerary.
Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
On arrival, you will land at Kathmandu airport, where our friendly team will greet you and take you to your hotel. Depending on what time you arrive, you are free to rest, or if you are itching to start exploring, you can spend the rest of the day soaking up the atmosphere of the Capital. You will then have dinner and an overnight stay in a highly recommended hotel in the city center.
Dinner
Hotel
1,400 m / 4,593 ft
Day 02: Kathmandu drive tourist bus/flight to Pokhara
Today, you can choose between a quick 30-minute flight to Pokhara and a 6-7 hour tourist bus. The bus may seem like a long alternative, but driving through the hills and local villages is an inspiring way to begin your adventure in Nepal and see what the country offers. Whichever route you choose, you will arrive in Pokhara, famous for its beautiful lake and the excellent bars and restaurants surrounding it.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel
1,400 m / 4,593 ft
Day 03: Pokhara drive to Nayapul, then trek to Ghandruk
Today, we say goodbye to beautiful Pokhara, drive towards Nayapul, and get a real insight into Nepali rural life. Then, after an energy-boosting lunch, we are finally ready to begin trekking! A short hike for our first day to Ghandruk, one of Nepal’s most famous Gurung Villages. A great spot to spend the night and observe such mountains as the Annapurna South (7,219 meters), Hiunchuli (6,441 meters), and Machhapuchhre (6,993 meters).
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
8 km / 5 miles
1,940 m / 6,365 ft
4hrs
Day 04: Ghandruk trek to Tadapani
We can start the day by exploring the traditions of the Gurung community before heading toward Tadapani. This three-hour trek will take you through oak and rhododendron forests, passing waterfalls and a buffalo pasture en route. On arrival, you will have the opportunity for a panoramic sunset view of Annapurna II, III, and IV, amongst others.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
6 km / 3.7 miles
2,630 m / 8,629 ft
3hrs
Day 05: Tadapani trek to Bayeli Kharka
Today, you will leave the main trekking trail and begin to explore off the beaten track. More rhododendron forests pepper our journey, along with oak forests. Before reaching our final destination, the trail ascends through the tree line, then continues along a ridge to Deurali, which leads us to Bayeli Kharka.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
7 km / 4.3 miles
3,400 m / 11,155 ft
4hrs
Day 06: Bayeli Kharka trek to Upper Chistibung
Today is an early start as we continue to Upper chastising along the grassy slope ground. We will then pass through pasture lands and grassy ridges hosting Danphe Pheasant. Our trail takes us through numerous villages and into the heart of rustic Nepal as we arrive in Upper Chistiung to rest for the night.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
8 km / 5 miles
3,700 m / 12,139 ft
5hrs
Day 07: Upper Chistibung trek to Kopra Ridge
Day 7 is an uphill trek exploring the area’s fauna – passing through the habitats of wild goats (Himalayan Tahr) and the National Bird of Nepal (Dafne) on the way to the Kopra community. However, today’s highlight is the visit to the emerald Khayer Lake – a tranquil beauty surrounded by mountain peaks. It’s as beautiful as Shey-Phoksundo in Upper Dolpo.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
9 km / 5.6 miles
3,900 m / 12,795 ft
5hrs
Day 08: Kopra Ridge trek to Swanta Village
Today we start with a downward trail as we return to Upper Chistibung, trailing through terraced farmland and small traditional villages on our way to Swanta Village – complete with traditional houses and the warm hospitality of the Magar people, it’s the perfect resting spot.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
8 km / 5 miles
3,900 m / 12,795 ft
4hrs
Day 09: Swanta Village trek to Ghorepani
Be prepared for a climb today as we begin the popular trekking route, ‘Three Thousand Steps.’ This is a challenge, but once we have battled the stairs, the walk levels out, and we can venture through more villages and Rhododendrons before reaching Ghorepani.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
10 km / 6.2 miles
2,874 m / 9,429 ft
5hrs
Day 10: Visit Poon Hill, then trek Tikhedhunga
Today may be an early start – but it’s completely worth it as we catch the sunrise over the Annapurna from Poon Hill. This beautiful start to the day is followed by breakfast before our trek begins. Today’s trek is gentle and downhill – a treat after the climb the day before – to reach Tikhedhunga.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Teahouse
12 km / 7.5 miles
3,210 m / 10,531 ft
6hrs
Day 11: Tikhedhunga trek to Nayapul drive to Pokhara
Today is the final day of the trek portion of our journey. It is a mostly level trail – with some ups and downs. Enjoy this time to take in the last of the mountains that have kept you company throughout your trip. On arrival in Nayapul, we will drive to Pokhara, where you can spend the evening reflecting on your accomplishments and relaxing in beautiful surroundings.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel
11 km / 6.8 miles
1,540 m / 5,052 ft
5hrs
Day 12: Pokhara drives a tourist bus/flight to Kathmandu
It’s time to wave goodbye to the beautiful city of Pokhara and either fly or go back to Kathmandu. Whether you choose the speedy or scenic route, you are free to spend the rest of your day enjoying the excitement of the Capital – either taking a rest or exploring the city’s nightlife.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel
1,400 m / 4,593 ft
Day 13: Final Departure
It’s time to fly home! Say goodbye to Nepal and your fellow trekkers! A member of our friendly team will take you to the airport..
Breakfast
1,338 m / 4,390 ft
Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek Map
What To Expect?
What's Included
- Airport/hotel pick up and drop off by private car.
- At least two nights 3-star hotel in Kathmandu bed and Breakfast plan
- Meals on the entire board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the whole trekking
- Transport From Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu By Tourist Coach.
- Trekking map
- An experienced Government license holder guide
- Insurance, salary, equipment, transportation, local tax for guide.
- Group medical supplies (first aid kit will be available)
- All necessary paper works and national park entry permits
- Travel and rescue arrangement
- TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
- All government taxes and tourist service charges
What's Excluded
- Meals in Kathmandu before and after trekking,
- Your travel insurance ( Rescue )
- Tips for trekking staff and driver
- Drinks (hot, cold, and alcoholic)
- Trekking porter/Sherpa who will carry your bags during the trekking.
- Personal shopping and laundry etc
- Personal trekking equipment
Tripadvisor Reviews
Google Reviews
Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek Additional Information
Khopra Trek Difficulty
The Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek is a moderate trek that requires a reasonable level of fitness and the ability to walk for several hours on consecutive days. This route goes through forests, villages, stone steps, uphill and bare mountain terrain. There are days with longer ascents, hence it is advisable to prepare before the trek by walking or hiking.
Khopra Ridge is elevated at around 3,660 meters with the elevated level making the walking more challenging. The Khayer Lake side trip is not mandatory as it is much more demanding as it goes up to around 4,660 meters and requires a long day of walking on a high altitude. Trekkers are to walk at the same rate, drink ample water and give their bodies time to adapt to the rising altitude.
Khopra Trek distance
The round Khopra Trek distance is about 120 km. Although Khopra Ridge is only 39.8 km from Pokhara, our trip covers many other highlights, making it longer. If you only travel to Khopra Ridge and avoid other destinations like Poon Hill, the trek from Ghandruk is about 60 km. We walk 10 to 15 km daily, which takes about 6 hours. Some days might be longer, but this is an average time.
Khopra Trek altitude
Khopra Danda is 3640m above sea level, and it takes us many days to get there. So, it’s likely to get altitude sickness before Khopra Danda ( unless you are highly dehydrated). However, our primary destination, Layer L, is almost impossible to reach; at 4,660m, it is the trek’s highest point. So, the only chance you can be caught with altitude sickness is between Khopra Danda and Kayer Lake.
| Location | Approximate Altitude |
| Ghandruk | 1,940 m |
| Tadapani | 2,600 m |
| Dobato | 3,420 m |
| Chistibung | 3,000 m |
| Khopra Ridge | 3,660 m |
| Khayer Lake | 4,660 m |
The exact overnight locations may vary according to the selected itinerary. Khayer Lake is a higher optional excursion and should not be presented as the same altitude as Khopra Ridge.
Best time to Trek Khopra Danda
Khopra RidgeKopra Danda Trek is among the significant high-altitude Treks in the Annapurna region. This means the weather at Khopra Danda significantly impacts the comfort one experiences during the trek.
The government issues the Khopra Danda Trek permit throughout the year, and there is no restriction on travelling in any season. However, for trekkers wishing for a comfortable trek in the Khopra region, it’s suggested that you hike during peak season only.
Peak season: Autumn (September, October, and November) and Spring ( March, April, and May) are the best times for the Khopra Danda Trek. With stable weather, autumn makes the best views, while spring is known for the colourful blooms of wildflowers. Spring might have some rainy days in Pokhara and the lower region, but the weather is good for the trek.
Spring also makes the surroundings magical with the blooms of wildflowers all around. And since other hikes like Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek are exceptionally crowded, Kopra Ridge is a perfect escape. Poonhill Ghandruk is very magical during spring.
Off-season: Summer ( June, July, and August) with regular rainfall is not good. Since Pokhara receives the highest amount of rain in the entire Nation, this is not the ideal season for the Kopra Ridge Trek. Similarly, the winter trek with regular snowfall is challenging to walk in. All areas above Upper Chistibung are covered in snow. However, the lake looks magical when surrounded by snow, and the views are fantastic. We suggest a winter trek in Khopra Ridge when all other Annapurna high passes are closed to trekkers. However, having proper guidance from MyEverestTrip is essential.
| Month | Weather and Trail Conditions | Mountain Views | Trekking Suitability |
| January | Cold with possible snow at higher elevations | Good on clear days | Challenging |
| February | Cold, with snow possible around higher sections | Good on clear days | Possible |
| March | Mild temperatures and generally dry trails | Clear mountain views | Excellent |
| April | Mild and stable weather with good trail conditions | Excellent | Excellent |
| May | Warm at lower elevations, with occasional clouds | Generally good | Good |
| June | Increasing rainfall and wet trails | Often cloudy | Less suitable |
| July | Monsoon rain, muddy trails and cloud cover | Limited | Not recommended |
| August | Frequent rain and slippery trails | Limited | Not recommended |
| September | Rain decreases toward the end of the month | Improving | Possible |
| October | Dry and stable weather | Excellent | Excellent |
| November | Clear skies and comfortable temperatures | Excellent | Excellent |
| December | Cold, with possible snow at higher elevations | Good on clear days | Possible |
Kopra Ridge Trek cost
The newly made Kopra Ridge Trek trail is still in the promotion phase, with minimal competition. Thus, the price is low: Chopra Ridge Trek costs $850 for a 13-day, 12-night trek. In addition, you will spend about $300 on gear, snacks, tips, and donations.
All other costs, including two-way transportation to and from Pokhara, are included. You don’t need to worry about any extra hidden costs. It’s way lower than the Everest Base Camp Trek and other treks like the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
The price mentioned above is the Khopra Trek package by MyEverestTrip. You might find other cheaper Packages, but they don’t cover all the expenses of a trip. Independent and solo traveling is also allowed at Kopra Ridge.
Independent Travelers pay about $25 for food per day, $5 for accommodation, and $40 per guide and Porter per day. The one-time cost includes transportation of about $100 and permits of about $50. In the end, Solo travellers end up paying more than $850.
Poonhill and Khopra Danda trek itinerary
Our Khopra Danda trek Itinerary moves from Ghandruk to Tadapani and diverts to Bayeli Kharka. Ghandruk, a popular homestay destination in Nepal, has a Gurung settlement. This is the first highlight of our trip.
From Bayeli Kharka, we head towards Khopra Danda, then reach Ghorepani via Swanta Village. From Ghorepani, we walk to Poon Hill, a famous viewpoint offering an astounding panorama of the mountain peaks. We visit Poonhill on the 11th day of our trek.
Khayer Lake Side Trip
Khayer Lake is an optional side trip from Khopra Ridge and is considerably more demanding than the main Khopra Ridge route. The lake sits at approximately 4,660 meters and requires a long day of walking at high altitude. The trail includes steep sections and can be affected by snow and changing weather, particularly outside the main trekking seasons.
Trekkers who choose to visit Khayer Lake should be prepared for a longer and more physically demanding day. The side trip should be completed only when weather and trail conditions are suitable. Trekkers can also choose to stay at Khopra Ridge and enjoy the surrounding mountain views if they do not wish to make the Khayer Lake excursion.
Accommodation and Food During Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek
Accommodation during the Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek is provided in hotels, teahouses, and community lodges depending on the location. Kathmandu and Pokhara have more comfortable hotel facilities, while accommodation becomes simpler as the trail reaches the higher areas. Teahouses generally provide basic twin sharing rooms with shared bathroom facilities. In more permanent settlements near Khopra Ridge, there are community lodges with basic rooms and food. Hot showers, electricity, internet, and charging facilities can be restricted at elevated points and might also include charges.
The teahouses and community lodges serve meals on the trekking route. Delicacies such as dal bhat, rice, noodles, pasta, soup, potatoes, eggs, Tibetan bread, and vegetables are common, coupled with tea, coffee, and other basic local and western cuisine. Dal bhat is a convenient option when trekking because it serves rice, lentils, vegetables and other side meals. There are vegetarian foods but the food options become restricted at larger settlements. Drinking water can be purchased along the route or obtained from available sources and treated before drinking. It is better to keep a reusable water bottle and appropriate water purification tablets or a filter.
Transportation for Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek
The journey begins with travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara by tourist bus, private vehicle, or flight according to the selected package. From Pokhara, road transportation continues toward the trekking trailhead.
The exact road section depends on the confirmed itinerary and trailhead used for the trek. Local roads in the Annapurna region can be rough in some sections, particularly during the monsoon season, so travel time may vary according to road and weather conditions.
At the end of the trek, transportation is arranged from the final trekking point back toward Pokhara before continuing to Kathmandu according to the package itinerary.
Mobile Network, Internet and Charging Facilities
Mobile network coverage is available in several settlements along the Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek, although the signal can become weaker or unavailable in some higher and more remote sections. Ncell and Nepal Telecom coverage can vary according to location and weather.
WiFi may be available at some teahouses and lodges, but the connection is not consistent throughout the route. Charging facilities are generally available at many lodges, although higher settlements may have limited electricity and charging can involve an additional fee.
A power bank is recommended so you can keep your phone, camera, and other essential devices charged during the trek.
Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek Comparison with Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The Annapurna region has several trekking routes with different levels of difficulty, scenery, duration, and trail conditions. Comparing the Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek with Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp can help you choose a route that matches your available time and trekking goals.
Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek vs Poon Hill Trek
| Feature | Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek | Poon Hill Trek |
| Duration | Around 13 days | Usually 3 to 5 days |
| Main highlight | Khopra Ridge and optional Khayer Lake | Poon Hill sunrise viewpoint |
| Highest point | Around 3,660 m at Khopra Ridge | Around 3,210 m at Poon Hill |
| Optional high altitude excursion | Khayer Lake at around 4,660 m | Generally not required |
| Difficulty | Moderate | Easy to moderate |
| Trail experience | Forests, villages, ridges and higher mountain terrain | Forests, villages and stone steps |
| Crowds | Generally quieter on the higher route | Usually busier, especially during peak seasons |
| Accommodation | Teahouses and community lodges | Teahouses and lodges |
| Best for | Trekkers wanting a longer and quieter Annapurna route | Trekkers with limited time who want a shorter mountain trek |
The Poon Hill Trek is better suited to travelers who have limited time and want a shorter trek with an accessible Himalayan viewpoint. The Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek takes longer and reaches a higher elevation, providing a more extended trekking experience. The optional Khayer Lake excursion makes the Khopra route more demanding for trekkers who want to explore beyond the main ridge.
Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek vs Annapurna Base Camp Trek
| Feature | Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek | Annapurna Base Camp Trek |
| Duration | Around 13 days | Usually 7 to 12 days depending on route |
| Main highlight | Khopra Ridge and optional Khayer Lake | Annapurna Base Camp |
| Highest point | Around 3,660 m at Khopra Ridge | Around 4,130 m at Annapurna Base Camp |
| Optional high altitude excursion | Khayer Lake at around 4,660 m | Main destination is Annapurna Base Camp |
| Difficulty | Moderate | Moderate to challenging |
| Mountain scenery | Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South and surrounding peaks | Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre and surrounding peaks |
| Trail experience | Forests, villages, ridges and community lodge sections | Forests, villages, river valleys and mountain settlements |
| Crowds | Generally quieter | Usually busier on the main route |
| Accommodation | Teahouses and community lodges | Teahouses and lodges |
| Best for | Trekkers looking for a quieter ridge trek with an optional high altitude excursion | Trekkers who want to reach Annapurna Base Camp |
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is the better choice for travelers whose main goal is to reach a major Himalayan base camp. The Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek provides a different experience, with more time on quieter ridge trails and an optional journey toward Khayer Lake. Both routes require proper preparation, but the Khayer Lake excursion should be treated as a separate and more demanding day because of its higher elevation.
Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek FAQs
Can I skip the Khayer Lake side trip?
Yes, Khayer Lake is optional. Those trekkers who want a shorter or less challenging day can stay at Khopra Ridge and resume the main itinerary.
Is a porter necessary for the Khopra Ridge Trek?
Not all trekkers require a porter, but one can be hired to make the trek experience easier by transporting the main luggage in the longer uphill trails.
How much luggage can I take on the trek?
The suggested weight of luggage is based on the package and porter plan. A daypack with essentials is usually carried by the trekker while the main bag is carried by a porter when included.
Can children join the Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek?
Older children with good fitness and previous hiking experience may be able to complete the trek, but parents should consider the walking hours, altitude, weather, and the optional Khayer Lake excursion before deciding.
Are there ATMs on the Khopra Ridge route?
The larger towns have ATM facilities but beyond that, they are scarce. It is better to take sufficient Nepalese rupees prior to entering the remote parts of the trekking trail.
Am I able to have a hot shower on the trek?
Some teahouses and lodges might have hot showers, but higher settlements have more basic facilities. Hot showers may also require an additional payment.
Can we trek the Khopra Ridge in winter?
Winter walking can be done, though the snow and low temperatures can be a challenge on the higher parts. Before leaving, weather and trail conditions must be verified, especially when organizing the journey to Khayer Lake.
When should I book the Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek?
It is also advisable to book several weeks ahead during spring and autumn so that accommodation, transportation, permits, guides and porters can be organized without any problems.
US$ 850 per person
- 24/7 Customer Support
- Experienced and Professional Team
- Hassle-Free and Easy Booking
- 99% Customer Satisfaction
- Fair Prices, Exceptional Service
- No Hidden Costs and Secure Payments
- Tailored and Personalized Itineraries
24 X 7 Live Support
Puru (+977-9851069558)
Related Trips
Recent From Our Blog Places of attractions, travel tips, news and more.
Annapurna
Annapurna Base Camp Trek Difficulty
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek difficulty can differ through different factors, including altitude, route condition,…
Read the full post
Annapurna
Annapurna Base Camp Trek in April
April is considered one of the best months for embarking on Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)…
Read the full post
Blog
10 Interesting Facts About Nepal That Will Surprise You
Nepal is a small Himalayan country between India and China but it has an amazing…
Read the full post