Khopra Danda Trek

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Khopra Danda Trek

Package Info

Duration

8 Days

Group

2-12

Max Altitude

4600 Meters

Best Season

March -May, August-November

Overview

The Khopra Danda (Kopra Ridge) Trek is a stunning, off-the-beaten-path alternative to the classic Ghorepani trail. Located in the heart of the Annapurna region, this ridge-line trek offers jaw-dropping views of Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South, Nilgiri, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) — all from a quiet, crowd-free trail.

What makes Khopra truly special is the diversity of the route. You’ll pass through rhododendron forests, rural villages, alpine meadows, and yak pastures before reaching the panoramic viewpoint at Khopra Ridge (3,660m). An optional day hike to Khayer Lake (4,660m) adds an extra challenge and cultural insight, as the lake is a sacred pilgrimage site.

Ideal for trekkers looking for a quiet trail, rich biodiversity, and immersive mountain scenery — without going too high or too far.

Itinerary

Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, Trek to Ghandruk (1,940m)

Drive from Pokhara (~2 hours) to Nayapul
Begin the trek with a gradual ascent to Ghandruk, a beautiful Gurung village
Explore local museums, temples, and traditional homes

Trek: 4–5 hours | Meals: L/D | Accommodation: Teahouse

Day 2: Trek from Ghandruk to Tadapani (2,630m)

Follow forest trails and scenic hillsides to reach Tadapani
Enjoy early views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South

Trek: 5 hours | Meals: B/L/D | Accommodation: Teahouse

Day 3: Trek from Tadapani to Bayeli Kharka (3,450m)

Enter quiet trails through dense rhododendron forests
Reach Bayeli Kharka, a peaceful pasture with sunset views of Dhaulagiri

Trek: 6–7 hours | Meals: B/L/D | Accommodation: Community Lodge

Day 4: Trek from Bayeli to Khopra Danda (3,660m)

Hike along alpine ridgelines with expansive views of Annapurna and Nilgiri
Arrive at Khopra Ridge, one of the best view spots in the region
Catch sunrise/sunset over Dhaulagiri and the Kali Gandaki Gorge

Trek: 4–5 hours | Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner | Accommodation: Community Lodge

Day 5: Optional Day Hike to Khayer Lake (4,660m) and Return to Khopra

For those interested, take a long but rewarding hike to Khayer Lake
The sacred lake offers reflections of Annapurna South and spiritual significance
Return to Khopra for the night

Trek: 7–9 hours round-trip (optional) | Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Day 6: Trek to Swanta Village (2,270m)

Begin your descent through forested trails and yak herding villages
Reach Swanta, a Magar settlement known for its cultural authenticity

Trek: 5–6 hours | Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner | Accommodation: Teahouse

Day 7: Trek to Ghorepani (2,850m)

Gradually climb back through forest trails to Ghorepani
Optional sunset view from Poon Hill if time permits

Trek: 4–5 hours | Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner | Accommodation: Teahouse

Day 8: Poon Hill Sunrise Hike (3,210m), Return to Pokhara

Early morning hike to Poon Hill for panoramic sunrise
Descend to Nayapul and drive back to Pokhara

Trek: ~5 hours + 2-hr drive | Meals: Breakfast/Lunch

Inclusions

Includes

Private transport (Pokhara–Nayapul–Pokhara)
3 daily meals during the trek (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Accommodation in teahouses and community lodges
Experienced, English-speaking licensed guide and porter
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card
Sleeping bag and trekking poles (on request)
First aid kit, guide insurance, and government taxes

Excludes

Trek Preparation and Packing Guide

Permit Requirements for Khorpa Danda Trek:

To trek Khorpa Danda (Khorpa Ridge), you’ll need:

TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)

Permits can be obtained in Pokhara. You’ll need:

Passport photocopy
Two passport-size photos
Valid travel insurance

We can help arrange permits ahead of your arrival to save time and hassle.

Recommended Packing List:

Waterproof trekking boots
Thermal base layers & fleece
Windproof & down jacket
Trekking pants and gloves
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
Headlamp with extra batteries
Water purification tablets or filter
Reusable water bottle or hydration pack
Light snacks and energy bars
Basic first aid and medications

Keep your pack light but weather-ready.

Gallery

FAQs

Is Khopra Trek harder than Ghorepani?

Yes, it’s a bit longer and includes higher altitudes, but still moderate. Good fitness is recommended.Yes, it’s a bit longer and includes higher altitudes, but still moderate. Good fitness is recommended.

Can I do the trek without visiting Khayer Lake?

Absolutely. The Khopra Ridge itself is stunning. The lake hike is optional.

Is this trek suitable for beginners?

Yes, if you have a good fitness level and are comfortable with multi-day hiking.

Are there crowds like on the ABC or EBC treks?

No. The Khopra trail is peaceful and less commercialized, great for solitude seekers.

Do I need special permits?

Yes, ACAP and TIMS, both included in the package.