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Travel through the remote and untouched Himalayan landscapes
Khopra Danda Trek – 11 Days
Based on 50 reviews
Duration
11 Days
Trip Difficulty
Moderate
Max Altitude:
4,500m. / 14,764ft.
Activity
Trekking
Group Size
1-20
Best Season
Autumn, Spring
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge, Guesthouse
Transportation
Private Vehicle
Overview of Khopra Danda Trek – 11 Days
Khopra Danda Trek is a lesser-known gem in the central Nepal of the Annapurna region. It offers a serene, raw, and solitary Himalayan experience with fewer tourists. The trails provide an off-beaten experience with the unforgettable mountain views of Mount Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri ranges.
The trails you walk on pass through the rich ethnic groups of the Gurung and Magar communities. You get to witness the simple local life, taking a sip of tea inside their stone houses. The rest points are remote yet very friendly, and each home gives warm hospitality.
Escaping the crowded routes of Annapurna, this adventure takes you to the sacred Khayer Lake. It is a spiritually significant site for the local people and all the Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims. Connecting the ridge trail to Khayer Lake is simply amazing, surrounded by high landscapes and colorful wildflowers.
Spectacular sunrise views of the mountains are what make this trek more stunning. From Khopra Danda, you get to catch a rare glimpse of sunrise kissing the peaks of Mount Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South.
If you are an enthusiast who loves to explore new destinations, sunrise points, and lakes, this is an ideal trek. We, the Explore vision, would love to plan this Khopra Danda/ Ridge trip for you. Feel free to contact us with queries and your custom plan for this trip!
Outline Itinerary of Khopra Danda Trek – 11 Days
Day 01: Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu (1350/4430Ft)
Day 02: Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara, and Drive to Kimchi, Trek to Ghandruk (2012M/6600Ft), Duration: 30 Min. Flight, 2 Hours Drive, 1 Hour Trek, Distance: 4 Km
Day 03: Trek from Ghandruk to Tadapani (2630M/8625Ft), Distance: 7 Km, Durations: 4 Hours
Day 04: Trek from Tadapani to Dobato (3350M10990Ft), Distance: 7-8 Km, Duration: 5-6 Hours
Day 05: Trek from Dobato to Khopra Ridge/Khopra Danda (3660M/12000Ft), Duration: 6-7 Hours
Day 06: Hike to Khayer Lake (4500M/14760Ft) and return to Khopra Ridge/Danda, Distance: 15-16 Km, Duration: 8 Hours
Day 07: Trek from Khopra Ridge/Khopra Danda to Swanta Village (2215M/7265Ft), Distance: 9 Km, Duration: 5-6 Hours
Day 08: Trek from Swanta Village to Ghorepani (2874M/9425Ft), Distance: 8 Km, Duration: 4-5 Hours
Day 09: Hike to Poonhill (3210M/10530Ft) and back to Ghorepani, Then Trek to Hile, Distance: 13 Km, Duration 4-5 Hours. Drive from Hile to Pokhara (820/2690Ft), Duration: 1.5 Hours
Day 10: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu, Duration: 6 Hours
Day 11: Departure/Farewell Day
Trip Highlights
- Trek within the largest conservation Area of Nepal, the Annapurna Conservation Area.
- Witness the dramatic landscape shift that starts with an evergreen subtropical forest and ends at the alpine beauty.
- Breathtaking panoramic mountain views from iconic viewpoints and panoramas.
- Get a glimpse of the rich wildlife that is blessed by the colorful Rhododendrons, wildflowers, giant trees, and the rare sightings of the Himalayan wild animals.
- Journey along the centuries-old traditions of the Gurung and Magar communities.
- Discover the picturesque, charming villages and learn about the resilience of mountain life.
- Enjoy the trek while refueling with traditional Nepali cuisine and local delicacies.
- Travel through the remote and untouched Himalayan landscapes, which lead to the sacred Lake and sites.
- Offer yourself an authentic, solitary, and serene trekking experience in this less-traveled gem of Nepal.
Khopra Danda Trek – 11 Days Itinerary
01
Day 01: Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu (1350/4430Ft)
Welcome to the country of the Himalayas! As you land at the airport and get off, our representative warmly welcomes you and assists with your arrival. Then, accompany you to your hotel in a private vehicle. During this time, we’ll let you know about the trip meeting time and location.
Once the check-in procedure is complete, feel free to rest, prepare for the trip, or enjoy a walk around the area if the time permits!
Activity: Drive
Accommodation: Hotel
02
Day 02: Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara, and Drive to Kimchi, Trek to Ghandruk (2012M/6600Ft), Duration: 30 Min. Flight, 2 Hours Drive, 1 Hour Trek, Distance: 4 Km
You take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, enjoying the top view of Kathmandu city that slowly approaches the countryside. After a short flight, the drive begins on mostly smooth roads to Syauli Bazaar, then it becomes bumpy towards Kimchi. While the roads are shifting, enjoy the views of the Modi Khola River, terraced fields, hills, and riverside villages. In the distance, if the weather is clear, you might get a first glimpse of Mount Annapurna South and Hiunchuli.
After you reach Kimchi, you trek to the large Gurung village, Ghandruk. It is one of the most beautiful villages in the Annapurna region. The trail is short and stone-paved with a gradual uphill. Continuing, you get to the stunning viewpoint that faces Annapurna South before you enter the village. It is a photogenic place popular among trekkers and a good beginning to your Khopra Danda/Ridge Trek.
Activity: Flight, Drive, Trekking
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse
03
Day 03: Trek from Ghandruk to Tadapani (2630M/8625Ft), Distance: 7 Km, Durations: 4 Hours
Leaving behind the picturesque village of Ghandruk, the journey ascends steadily uphill on some stone stairs and forested trails. Enjoy each trail decorated with a dense forest of Rhododendrons, Oak, Pine, and wildflowers, with the moss clinging to the stones.
There is a good chance of spotting Himalayan Langurs in the forest if you’re lucky. While you are on the verge of reaching Tadapani, you pass by the rest point of Bhaisi Kharka. The trails get steep, and the trees start to open to the stunning mountain views of Machhapuchhre (fishtail), Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna. On this day, make sure you take a good forest walk and enjoy the chirping birds, a cool forest breeze, and the sounds of cicadas!
Activity: Trekking
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse
04
Day 04: Trek from Tadapani to Dobato (3350M10990Ft), Distance: 7-8 Km, Duration: 5-6 Hours
This trekking day involves moderate uphill and downhills, with a slow transition in the terrain from foothills to the sub-alpine. You pass through the dense rhododendron forest to the open ridges and pasture lands.
Moving ahead from Tadapani, you pass by the rest points of the Meshar Danda and Isharu. Then, you come across breathtaking mountain views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri before reaching Dobato. It is a stunning day that showcases the slow drift of the landscape from the Annapurna Foothills.
Activity: Trekking
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse
05
Day 05: Trek from Dobato to Khopra Ridge/Khopra Danda (3660M/12000Ft), Duration: 6-7 Hours
On this day, you enter the Alpine zone of the Annapurna. This day is all about the Mountain views and solidarity. You leave behind the dense forest and wave hello to the Yak Pasture lands and alpine meadows.
You get beautiful sweeping views of Dhaulagiri to the west and Annapurna South to the North. As you are near Khopra ridge, you are struck by another surprising view of Mount Nilgiri, Dhampus Peak, Fang, and Tukuche Peak. Do not miss the timeless sunrise and sunset from the Khopra ridge, as it provides an unmatchable experience on this journey.
Activity: Trekking
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse
06
Day 06: Hike to Khayer Lake (4500M/14760Ft) and return to Khopra Ridge/Danda, Distance: 15-16 Km, Duration: 8 Hours
It is an exciting day as the journey takes you to one of the hidden gems of the Annapurna region, Khayer Lake. The trails to it follow rugged ridgelines that are rocky, thrilling, and offer stunning landscape views. The path sometimes passes through the narrow sidewalks and sometimes between the wide fields. The walk is done alongside the beauty of the Mount Dhaulagiri range and the panoramic beauties of Annapurna South, Tukuche Peak, and Nilgiri. The views are magical under the golden sun rays of morning. This provides a memorable experience with the Khopra Ridge Trek.
With the colorful wildflowers and grass surrounding you, the hike to the lake becomes enjoyable. Exposure is beyond description! As you reach the lake, you feel calm and humility by the stillness of the Khayer and the beauty surrounding it. This is a sacred lake hidden far in the Annapurna region that holds spiritual importance to the local Hindu people. In the Festival of Janai Purnima, a great gathering is held here, and many Hindu devotee takes part in it.
Activity: Hiking
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse
07
Day 07: Trek from Khopra Ridge/Khopra Danda to Swanta Village (2215M/7265Ft), Distance: 9 Km, Duration: 5-6 Hours
Today, you descend from the alpine meadows to the small forest openings. The beginning of the trail passes through open land and slowly approaches the green vegetation. While you are leaving the alpine land, take a last glance at the Mount Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, and Fang.
Re-entering the forest land and you get to cross small wooden bridges, enjoy views of terrace fields, and small streams along the way. Just before you reach Swanta Village, you get a stunning waterfall view amongst the trees. You can take a small break, enjoy the waterfall as a farewell gift from the mountains. Swanta is a traditional Magar village that offers an authentic and lovely home experience to the trekkers.
Activity: Trekking
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse
08
Day 08: Trek from Swanta Village to Ghorepani (2874M/9425Ft), Distance: 8 Km, Duration: 4-5 Hours
You continue your forest walk and come across both descents and ascents. As you leave the Swanta village, you take a short descent and continue a gradual and steep uphill. There are boldly standing ancient trees, mosses, ferns, Oaks, and scented Pines. It refills your soul and keeps you moving without getting tired. The view of Dhaulagiri range is spectacular today while moving towards Ghorepani.
After that, the trek takes a final stretch to the rest stop of Chitre Village and then to Ghorepani. Chitre is a peaceful stop with a few teahouses tucked within the forest situated between the bustling settlements of Ghorepani and Swanta. Ghorepani is a large settlement that offers stunning mountain views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. If the weather is clear, you can get glimpses of Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, and Annapurna South from the upper village at a distance.
Activity: Trekking
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse
09
Day 09: Hike to Poonhill (3210M/10530Ft) and back to Ghorepani, Then Trek to Hile, Distance: 13 Km, Duration 4-5 Hours. Drive from Hile to Pokhara (820/2690Ft), Duration: 1.5 Hours
This is another interesting day before you end your wonderful Khopra Danda trek in Annapurna. Early in the morning, you start your trek with a short hike to one of the popular viewpoints of the Annapurna region. The trail climbs through the marked stone steps and enters the forested trails.
The forest you pass through is rich in Rhododendrons, Pine, and ferns that keep you moving. After you reach Poon Hill, you are awestruck by the breathtaking panoramic mountain views of Mount Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Nilgiri. With the stunning sunrise, you slowly leave your farewell footsteps to the Annapurna, get back to Ghorepani and descend to Hile, passing by the Ulleri and Tikhedhunga.
Then the trek ends, and you take a scenic drive back to the bustling lakeside city of Pokhara. Enjoy your ride, which recalls the best moments and hilarious moments of this wonderful Khopra Ride/Danda trekking journey! Have a pleasant time in vibrant Pokhara city.
Activity: Trekking, Drive
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel
10
Day 10: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu, Duration: 6 Hours
Leaving your footsteps, you return to Kathmandu on a drive following the Prithvi highway, passing by the rolling hills and beautiful villages of Damauli, Muglin, and Malekhu. Take a final glance at the riverbanks, green countryside, and have a hearty conversation with your friends! Once you reach Kathmandu, check in your hotel, have a rest and relax.
Activity: Drive
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel
11
Day 11: Departure/Farewell Day
According to your scheduled flight, our representative will pick you up and drop you off at the airport three hours before. Embrace your sweet farewell moment with a see you next time! With the hopes of reuniting, yet again, a wonderful trip in Nepal ends with a sprinkle of memories added to it!
Activity: Drive
Meal: Breakfast
Note:
If you have a private group and prefer a personalized experience, we can organize a custom trip tailored to your requirements and group size, running it any day you choose.
Price Includes
Price Excludes
What's included?
- All ground airport transfers are done in a private vehicle
- Two nights’ accommodation with breakfast at the best 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu
- One nights’ accommodation with breakfast at the best 3-star category hotel in Pokhara
- Full board meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) with tea/coffee during the trek
- Kathmandu to Pokhara flight fare
- Pokhara to Kathmandu drive by luxury tourist bus
- Pokhara to Kimche and Hile to Pokhara by private vehicle
- Seasonal fruits – after dinner during the trek
- Best available twin sharing lodge to lodge accommodation during the trek
- One highly experienced, helpful, and friendly guide and a porter including their food, accommodation, salary, equipment and accidental insurance
- Duffle bag, down jacket and sleeping bag during the trek
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project permit) and TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card fees (please bring three passport photographs for the permit.
- Company t-shirt, trekking map and trip achievement certificate
- A comprehensive first-aid medical kit
- All government taxes and entry fees
What's not included?
- International airfare to and from Nepal
- Nepal visa fee (it is payable upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, (USD in cash is recommended)
- Travel insurance (it must include high altitude trekking above 4,000m, emergency evacuation)
- Accommodation, meals, and extra nights in Kathmandu outside the itinerary
- Personal expenses during the trek, like snacks, beverages, hot showers, charging electronics, and internet
- Tips for guide, porter, and driver (Expected but not mandatory)
Trip Information
Difficulty of the Khopra Ridge/Danda Trek
This trek is an easy-to-moderate trek that offers a mix of Uphill, Downhill, steep, and ridge walking. It reaches the highest point of 3,660m (12,008ft) at Khopra Danda and 4,660m (15,289ft) at Khayer Lake viewpoint. This is a moderately high-altitude trek compared to other treks in the Annapurna region.
People with decent physical fitness can complete the trek with moderate difficulty. You need to be able to walk an average of 5-6 hours daily. To prepare for it, you can do simple exercises and stretches before the trek.
Unique Experience through the Ridges of Khopra Danda
The exclusive experience during the Khopra Danda trek is hidden in its peaceful routes with no crowds. You get to enjoy the Himalayan experience without murmuring echoes of the people. You get to enjoy stunning mountain views of Mount Dhaulagiri (the 7th highest peak in the world), Annapurna South, Fang, and Nilgiri.
Discovering the surreal sunrises is another unique experience you get during this trek. Ridge walking in the wild and remote terrain provides an authentic trekking experience. You stay at the community-run lodges that offer warm and homely spaces throughout the trek.
The hike to Khayer Lake is one of the highlights of the trek as it is one of the hidden gems of the Annapurna region. It has fewer visits and is less known, which makes it mysterious and charming within.
Viewpoints on the trails of Khopra Danda
Along the Trails of Khopra, you can find many viewpoints that you should not miss! Make sure you try to make momentum with these photogenic viewpoints and keep your camera rolls and batteries for it!
Khopra Danda Viewpoint: It is the main viewpoint of the Khopra Danda/ Ridge trek. From this point, you can get breathtaking panoramic mountain views of Annapurna South, Nilgiri range, Fang, and Dhaulagiri.
Muldai Viewpoint: Mildai Viewpoint is known as the hidden Poonhill, which is near Dobato. You can see over 25 Himalayan peaks from the point. The view includes Mount Machhapuchhre (fishtail), Dhaulagiri, and Annapurna I.
Khayer Lake Viewpoint: This viewpoint is led by the stunning ridge trail that passes through small streams and rocky slopes. You get to enjoy the calming lake surrounded by sacred beliefs and the alpine beauty.
Bayeli Kharka: This is the point from where you can witness a smooth transition of the forest trail to the open alpine ridges. The point offers dramatic Annapurna range views and a glimpse of the ridge trails.
Poonhill Sunrise Viewpoint: This is a popular sunrise viewpoint of the Annapurna region that offers breathtaking panoramas of Mount Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Machapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and Nilgiri.
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