Magical 13 Days Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek Experience

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.

Trip 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 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

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Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek Additional Information

Khopra Trek Difficulty

This 15-day trek is a quiet, relaxing walk in the mountains. Despite being extended, it is quite an easy trek in Annapurna. Mostly, we walk for 4 to 7 hours each day, leaving plenty of time for rest and acclimatization.

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.

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.

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.

Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek FAQs

Where is Khopra Danda?

Khopra Danda Khayer Lake Trek is located to the northeast of Pokhara. It is about 39.9 km away from Pokhara. The village borders Myagdi District and Kaski District. The Khopra Ridge is relatively close to the village of Ghorepani in Dhaulagiri. The Kopra Ridge is only accessible via trek from Tadapani.

Khopra Danda lies 3640m above sea level, while Khayer Lake, a popular destination nearby, lies 4660m at sea level.

How long is Khopra Danda Trek Nepal?

MyEverestTrip Khopra Danda Trek Itinerary is 16 days and 14 nights long. The trip has become longer, including Ghandruk and Poonhill Trek, for 4 to 5 days. If you want to skip these popular destinations and directly reach Khopra Danda from Pokhara,you can get there in 3 days from Pokhara, and it takes two days to return. Thus, Kopra Ridge Trek from Pokhara is one day walk. However, we suggest you take this relaxing and rejuvenating amble, covering all essential trekking destinations. After all, this is a once-in-a-lifetime journey, and there’s no need to rush.

Is a solo Khopra Ridge Trek possible?

Yes, Solo Trek to Khopra is possible both legally and practically. There are few restricted regions in Annapurna, like Upper Mustang, where trekkers can travel Solo. However, Khopra Danda is not one of those restricted regions and, thus, can issue the permit alone.

Practically, it’s pretty risky to travel alone in the unknown path of the forest. But if you book MyEverestTrip, you will be accompanied by a guide to Khopra Ridge. A guide will keep you safe and comfortable without disturbing the true essence of Solo trekking. Thus, you can fully enjoy the perks of a Solo trek without being disturbed.

Why is Khopra Danda Famous?

Khopra Danda has recently gained the attention of trekkers around the world. With the increasing crowds in other popular treks in the Annapurna region, the true essence of solitude cannot be felt. However, this Khopra Ridge Trek is entirely untouched by modernization and the crowds.

However, the major highlight of Khopra Ridge Trek is the emerald Khayer Lake – a tranquil beauty surrounded by mountain peaks. It looks stunning in winter, surrounded by snow. This peaceful glacier lake looks like Shey Phoksundo and Rara but can be reached much more quickly; the proximity to popular destinations such as Poonhill and Ghandruk makes it a great goal.

Furthermore, the typical Gurung and Tamang villages along the route also attract many trekkers. These villages reflect authentic Nepalese culture and tradition.

US$ 850 per person

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