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Khopra Danda Trek – Annapurna Ridge Trek & Khayer Lake Adventure
The Khopra Danda trek, also known as Khopra Ridge or Khayer Lake trek, is a relatively new addition to the trekking trails in the Annapurna region, offering a unique perspective on the stunning landscapes and mountain views the area is renowned for. What sets this trek apart is its accessibility and suitability for trekkers of various skill levels, including families with children or older members.
Unlike some of the more strenuous treks in the region, the Khopra Danda trek features well-maintained trails that are relatively easy to navigate. This makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a shorter and less challenging hike without compromising on the breathtaking views.
One of the highlights of the Khopra Danda trek is the opportunity to witness the Annapurna region's beauty from different angles and perspectives, thanks to the unique vantage points along the route. Trekkers can expect to encounter pristine, unspoiled landscapes, as the trail is relatively new and less frequented by tourists compared to other popular treks in the region.
The trek takes travelers through dense forests teeming with diverse flora, including rhododendrons, oaks, bamboo, and pines, providing ample opportunities for wildlife sightings, such as langur monkeys. Along the way, trekkers will also pass through charming rural villages and scenic rice fields, offering a glimpse into the local way of life.
One of the highlights of the Khopra Danda trek is the chance to visit Khayer Lake, often regarded as one of the most beautiful lakes in the region. Surrounded by majestic mountain peaks, the lake serves as a stunning backdrop for trekkers looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Nepal.
Overall, the Khopra Danda trek offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, accessibility, and cultural immersion, making it an excellent choice for trekkers seeking a memorable Himalayan adventure without the challenges of more rigorous treks.
This day will be marked the beginning of the trip. Our representative/guide will pick you up from Hotel/Place and drop to Tourist Bus Stand. And leave Kathmandu and continue our drive to Pokhara today. The total duration of drive will be about 6 hours and we expect to reach Pokhara by 2 pm giving you time to explore. Upon arriving Pokhara, you will be transferred to your hotel. Rest of the evening is free to explore.
After breakfast, we drive to Kimche and begin our trek towards Tadapani. On the way, we pass through the traditional village of Ghandruk, where we stop for lunch and enjoy its cultural charm. The trail ascends via old stone steps and later winds through dense rhododendron forests, offering a peaceful walking experience. By late afternoon, we arrive at Tadapani, surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery. Overnight at lodge.
After breakfast, we begin our trek towards Dobato, passing small teahouse stops at Mesar and Isaru. The trail steadily ascends through beautiful rhododendron forests, offering a serene trekking experience. In the evening, we may hike to Mulde View Point to witness a stunning sunset panorama (weather permitting). Dinner & overnight at lodge.
We wake up early (around 4:30 am) for a short hike (45 minutes) to the Mulde View Point (3,637m) to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas. The panorama includes Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Nilgiri South & North, Manaslu, and Ganesh Himal. After enjoying the magical views, we return to the lodge for breakfast and then trek down through beautiful forested trails to reach Dhankharka (Chistibung). Overnight at lodge/Teahouse.
After breakfast, we begin a short but steady uphill trek to Khopra Ridge (3,660m), also known as the “Balcony of Annapurna” for its wide and dramatic views. The trail ascends gradually through alpine meadows and opens up to spectacular mountain scenery. In the evening, enjoy a breathtaking sunset over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Overnight at lodge.
Start the day early with panoramic sunrise views of Dhaulagiri (I–IV), Annapurna South, Nilgiri, Barah Shikhar, and Gurja Himal. Today’s adventure takes you on a day hike to the sacred Khayer Lake (4,660m), regarded as a holy site by locals. Surrounded by majestic peaks, the serene lake offers a truly spiritual and scenic experience. After spending some time at the lake, hike back to Khopra Danda for dinner and overnight stay.
After breakfast, we begin the descent to Swanta Village (2,214m). The trail gradually winds down through lush forests and scenic alpine landscapes, offering peaceful views and a refreshing walk. Along the way, enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings and glimpses of local village life. Overnight at lodge in Swanta Village.
After breakfast, we begin the ascent to Ghorepani (2,860m), one of the most charming settlements of the Magar community and a popular stop before reaching Poon Hill (3,210m). The trail offers a rewarding uphill hike through scenic forests and terraced landscapes. For trekkers preferring a shorter route, there is an alternative path via Tatopani, which can reduce the trek by 1–2 days, but the Ghorepani trail remains the best option for experiencing a traditional uphill Himalayan trail. Overnight at lodge in Ghorepani.
Early in the morning, you can choose to hike up to Poon Hill (3,210m) for panoramic sunrise views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, similar to Mulde Viewpoint (though Mulde is closer). After breakfast, begin the descent to Ulleri Village through beautiful rhododendron forests and small settlements such as Nange Thanti and Banthanti. Upon reaching Ulleri, take a 3-hour drive to Pokhara.
After breakfast, drive back from Pokhara to Kathmandu, enjoying scenic views along the Prithvi Highway. The journey takes approximately 6 hours, passing through rivers, hills, and local towns, providing a final glimpse of Nepal’s beautiful landscapes. Tour concludes upon arrival in Kathmandu.
💰 Package Price (Per Person) – 2025/26
Price varies by group size – bigger group, better discount!
Single Pax: US$ 1085
Group of 2–3 Pax: US$ 725
Group of 4–5 Pax: US$ 677
Group of 6+ Pax: US$ 632
Join the Khopra Danda Trek 2025/2026 or create a fully custom trek to match your preferences. For details, email info@ghumnajaau.com.
Note: Helicopter evacuation in emergencies is arranged by Ghumnajaau Pvt. Ltd., with costs borne by clients
The Khopra Danda trek is considered a moderately challenging trek in Nepal, suitable for trekkers with a moderate level of fitness. While prior experience and training aren't mandatory, they can certainly enhance your enjoyment and preparedness for the trek.
Here are some factors to consider regarding the difficulty of the Khopra Danda trek and whether prior experience and training are necessary:
Terrain: The trek involves walking through varied terrain, including forests, ridges, and alpine landscapes. While the trail is generally well-defined, there may be sections with steep ascents and descents, as well as uneven paths. Prior hiking experience on similar terrain can be beneficial in terms of knowing how to pace yourself and navigate challenging sections.
Altitude: Although the highest point on the Khopra Danda trek is not as high as some other treks in Nepal, altitude-related issues can still occur, especially for those not acclimatized to higher elevations. It's essential to ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and listen to your body. Adequate acclimatization and proper hydration are crucial for a comfortable trekking experience.
Duration and distance: The Khopra Danda trek typically takes around 5-7 days to complete, depending on the specific itinerary and trekking pace. While the trek is shorter compared to some other treks in Nepal, it still involves several hours of trekking each day, covering moderate distances on foot. Prior physical conditioning, such as cardiovascular exercise and strength training, can help prepare your body for the demands of the trek.
Weather conditions: Weather in the mountains can be unpredictable and change rapidly. Be prepared for a variety of weather conditions, including cold temperatures, rain, wind, and even snow, depending on the time of year. Dress in layers, including waterproof and windproof outer layers, to stay warm and dry. Check weather forecasts before setting out and be prepared to adjust your plans accordingly.
Overall, while the Khopra Danda trek is considered moderate in difficulty, it still requires a reasonable level of fitness and endurance. As with any trek, it's essential to assess your own fitness level and preparedness, as well as to be mindful of factors like altitude and terrain conditions. Additionally, hiring a local guide or joining a guided trekking group can provide valuable support and assistance throughout the journey.
During the Khopra Danda trek, you'll find a range of accommodation options, food choices, and sources of drinking water to support your journey:
Accommodation: Along the Khopra Danda trekking route, there are teahouses, lodges, or guesthouses in villages or settlements along the way. These accommodations typically offer simple rooms with beds or sleeping pads, blankets, and shared bathroom facilities. While the facilities may vary in terms of comfort and amenities, they provide a cozy place to rest and recharge after a day of trekking.
Food: Teahouses and lodges along the Khopra Danda trek serve a variety of meals to cater to trekkers' needs. You can expect a range of dishes, including traditional Nepali cuisine like dal bhat (rice and lentils), as well as international options like pasta, noodles, and soups. Meals are often prepared using locally sourced ingredients, and vegetarian options are usually available. While the menu choices may be limited in more remote areas, teahouses strive to provide hearty and nourishing meals to satisfy hungry trekkers.
Drinking water: Staying hydrated is crucial while trekking, and there are several options for obtaining drinking water along the Khopra Danda trek. You can purchase bottled water at teahouses or shops along the trail, but this can be expensive and contributes to plastic waste. A more sustainable option is to bring a reusable water bottle and refill it with purified water or boiled water, which is typically available at teahouses for a small fee. Additionally, you can use water purification tablets or a filtration system to treat water from natural sources like streams and rivers, ensuring it's safe to drink.
Overall, while facilities along the Khopra Danda trekking route may be basic compared to urban areas, they are sufficient to support trekkers throughout their journey. It's essential to carry essential items such as a sleeping bag, personal hygiene items, and snacks to supplement meals between teahouses. Additionally, being prepared to treat water and staying hydrated are crucial aspects of ensuring a safe and enjoyable trekking experience on the Khopra Danda route.
While trekking in the Khopra Danda region offers incredible experiences, it's essential to be aware of potential health and safety issues to ensure a safe journey:
Altitude sickness: Although the Khopra Danda trek doesn't reach extremely high altitudes, altitude-related issues can still occur, especially for those who are not acclimatized to higher elevations. Symptoms of altitude sickness can include headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping. It's crucial to ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and listen to your body. Adequate acclimatization and proper hydration are essential for a comfortable trekking experience.
Weather conditions: Weather in the mountains can be unpredictable and change rapidly. Be prepared for a variety of weather conditions, including cold temperatures, rain, wind, and even snow, depending on the time of year. Dressing in layers, including waterproof and windproof outer layers, can help you stay warm and dry. Check weather forecasts before setting out and be prepared to adjust your plans accordingly.
Trekking hazards: The Khopra Danda trek involves walking on varied terrain, including rocky paths, steep ascents and descents, and narrow trails. Use sturdy hiking boots with good traction and trekking poles for stability, especially on difficult sections. Be cautious of loose rocks, slippery surfaces, and potential hazards along the trail.
Hygiene and sanitation: Facilities along the trekking route may have basic hygiene and sanitation standards. Practice good hygiene by washing your hands regularly with soap and water or using hand sanitizer. Be cautious with food and water consumption to avoid gastrointestinal illnesses. Carry a supply of personal hygiene items, such as hand sanitizer and toilet paper, as these may not always be readily available along the trail.
Wildlife encounters: While encounters with wildlife are not common on the Khopra Danda trek, it's essential to be aware of potential encounters with animals such as leopards, bears, and monkeys. Avoid feeding or approaching wild animals, and take precautions to secure food and trash to prevent attracting wildlife to your campsite or accommodation.
By being prepared, staying informed, and exercising caution, you can mitigate potential health and safety risks and enjoy a safe and memorable trekking experience on the Khopra Danda route. Additionally, hiring an experienced guide or joining a guided trekking group can provide valuable support and assistance in navigating the challenges of the trek.
Ghumnajaau's team is fueled by a profound passion for alpine adventure and the vast expanse of the great outdoors. With decades of collective experience navigating some of the most remote trails and towering peaks, they proudly identify as high-altitude adventure specialists. The team boasts a rich diversity of backgrounds and qualifications, with many guides hailing from the region itself, fostering a deep understanding and connection to the local culture and environment. Each trip is accompanied by qualified guides who ensure the safety and enjoyment of participants throughout the journey. Additionally, the team maintains a favorable ratio of one porter for every two travelers and one assistant guide for every four, ensuring personalized support and assistance whenever needed. Committed to providing a memorable and enriching trekking experience in the Himalayas, Ghumnajaau's team is dedicated to sharing their expertise and love for the mountains with every adventurer they accompany.
The best time to visit the Khopra Danda trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer the most favorable weather conditions and optimal trekking experiences:
Spring (March to May):
Autumn (September to November):
Both spring and autumn offer ideal trekking conditions with moderate temperatures, minimal rainfall, and stunning scenery, making them the preferred seasons for most trekkers. However, it's important to note that weather conditions can vary from year to year, so it's always a good idea to check weather forecasts before setting out and be prepared for changing conditions. Additionally, popular trekking seasons like spring and autumn may be busier on the trails and in teahouses, so be prepared for larger crowds and book accommodations in advance if possible.
The provided itinerary serves as a guideline for your trip; however, it is subject to modification based on prevailing situations and your preferences after consulting with your guide. While you have some flexibility in modifying certain aspects of the itinerary, the date of trek completion must align with the original schedule.
Please understand that this is an adventure trip into a remote mountain region, where unforeseen events may necessitate changes to the itinerary. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities, and in such cases, your guide will recommend the best alternative that closely aligns with the original program.
We appreciate your understanding and flexibility as we strive to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience for all participants.
Travel insurance is mandatory and highly recommended for any adventurous trips in Nepal, including the Khopra Danda Trek. It should cover emergency helicopter evacuation, particularly in cases of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) or other emergencies at high altitudes where alternative transportation options are unavailable. It's essential to carefully review the insurance policy and its coverage before making a decision. Participants should carry proof of insurance during the holiday and leave a copy with a trusted contact. Ensuring that the insurance provides adequate protection and covers the activities involved in the trek is crucial for peace of mind and safety throughout the journey.
The gear list provided is comprehensive and covers essential equipment for the Khopra Danda trek. Here's a breakdown of the items listed:
Head gears:
Sunhat
Warm hat
Buffs X 2
Sunglasses
Headlamp with spare batteries
Upper Body:
Thermal or fleece base layer top X 2
Short Sleeve Trekking shirts X 2
Full Sleeve trekking shirts X 2
Soft-shell jacket/fleece jacket X 2
Light down jacket X 1
Hardshell jacket with a hood X 1
Insulated Down Jacket (provided by request)
Lower body:
Thermal or fleece base layer bottom X 2
Trekking trousers/pants X 2
Warm trekking trousers X 1
Hardshell pants
Insulated down pants (optional)
Underwear:
5 pairs of underwear
2 Sports Bra for women
Footwear:
Waterproof Hiking Boots
Hiking socks X 4 pairs medium to heavy
Liner socks X 2
Camp shoes
Gaiters (If trekking in March)
Handwear:
Softshell gloves X 1
Heavyweight gloves X 1
Gears / Personal equipment:
Daypack 30-35 litres with rain cover
Waterproof Duffel bag (provided by request)
Down Sleeping bag (-15 C rated) (provided by request)
One-litre capacity water bottle X 2
Trekking poles
Camera with charger or spare batteries
Personal snacks and energy bars
Laundry bag
Padlock (Optional)
Rain Poncho
Large plastic bags
Extra clothes for Kathmandu
Toiletries and hygiene:
Quick-drying towel
Small face towel
Toothbrush & Toothpaste
Face mask
Water treatment tools or tablets
Soap and Shampoo/Dry shampoo
Face and body moisturizer
Sunscreen SPF30+ and Lip balm SPF 30+
Hand sanitiser/Antiseptic wipes
Hygiene products
Basic first aid kit (Pepto Bismol, Cipro (500mg tablets), Metronidazole, Hydration salts, Eye drops, Azithromycin (250mg tablets), Diamox (250mg tablets, approx. 20 total), and variety of standard painkillers including Tylenol, Ibuprofen, etc)
Documents:
Passport with visa and validity of 6 months after your trip completion
2 copies of passport-size photos (For Sim card and travel purposes)
Credit cards in case of emergencies
Driving ID or any other ID in case of loss of your passport
Travel Insurance and Flight tickets
Make sure to double-check the list against your personal needs and preferences, and consider the weather conditions during your trek. Additionally, ensuring proper fitting and comfort of the gear is essential for a successful trekking experience.
Passport:
All foreign visitors to Nepal must possess a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity beyond their planned departure date.
Visa:
Nepal visa can be obtained on arrival at Kathmandu airport (Tribhuvan International Airport) or you can obtain Nepal visa prior to your arrival through the Nepalese embassies, diplomatic missions and consulates near your location. Nepal Visa is also issued at the entry points if you are entering Nepal by land.
Visa Fees:
Nepal visa fees are listed below as per the duration.
Multiple entry 15 days – US$ 30 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple entry 30 days – US$ 50 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple entry 90 days – US$ 125 or equivalent convertible currency
Important Note: It is always advisable to verify the visa requirements upon booking your trip. Visa requirements may vary depending on where you are from and its also recommended to check the transit country requirements as well.
While we share this information in good faith, it is crucial for you to independently verify it and acknowledge that you bear full responsibility for your visa requirements.
Point of Arrival:
Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, Nepal
Meeting Instructions:
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), proceed to pay your visa fee, apply for Visa On Arrival (VOA), clear customs, and collect your luggage.
Look for a team member holding a placard stating 'Ghumnajaau' outside the arrival hall.
You will be escorted to your hotel for check-in.
Airport Pickup and Drop:
Airport transfers are arranged based on the flight information you provide.
Notify promptly if there are changes to your flight schedule.
Look for a team member holding a placard that reads 'Ghumnajaau' in the arrival area for pickup.
For departure, you will be taken to the airport according to your flight schedule.
Emergency Contact for Airport Transfers:
• Santosh: +9779802344595
Having clear instructions and emergency contacts ensures a smooth transition upon arrival and departure from Kathmandu. If there are any further questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to Santosh or the team for assistance.
