Khopra Ridge Trek
Discover the Khopra Ridge Trek : Nepal’s Hidden Himalayan Gem
Uncover the Serenity of an Offbeat Adventure
Embark on the Khopra Ridge Trek, a lesser-known treasure in Nepal’s Annapurna region, nestled northeast of Pokhara near the Myagdi and Kaski districts. This community lodge-based journey, also called the Khopra Danda Trek, offers a moderate yet thrilling escape from crowded trails like Ghorepani Poon Hill. Perfect for adventurers seeking solitude, the trek weaves through vibrant rhododendron forests, charming Gurung and Magar villages, and serene alpine meadows. With breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Annapurna I (8,091m), this trek promises an intimate Himalayan experience. Book now to explore this pristine trail and immerse yourself in authentic Nepali culture.
Spectacular Ridge Walks and Sacred Khayer Lake
What sets the Khopra Ridge Trek apart is its unique ridge walk, where you traverse two full days surrounded by towering peaks like Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Nilgiri. The adventure peaks with a challenging hike to Khayer Lake at 15,700 feet, a sacred alpine gem revered by Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims. From cozy tea houses offering panoramic mountain vistas to the eco-friendly community lodges supporting local villages, every moment is unforgettable. Don’t miss the chance to witness magical sunrises from Poon Hill and Muldai Viewpoint. Secure your spot for this soul-stirring journey today!
Highlights of Khopra Ridge Trek
- Stunning Ridge Walks : Traverse two full days on the Khopra Ridge, surrounded by breathtaking views of Annapurna I (8,091m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m), and Machhapuchhre, offering a rare Himalayan ridge experience.
- Sacred Khayer Lake : Embark on a thrilling ascent to the pristine Khayer Lake at 15,700 feet, a sacred alpine gem revered by locals, perfect for adventurous trekkers seeking spiritual and scenic rewards.
- Cozy Community Lodges : Stay in tea houses with panoramic mountain vistas, blending comfort with authentic Nepali hospitality in the heart of Gurung and Magar villages.
- Offbeat Annapurna Trail : Escape the crowds of popular treks like ABC or Poon Hill, enjoying serene trails through vibrant rhododendron forests and tranquil meadows in the Annapurna region.
- Epic Sunrise Views : Witness unforgettable dawns from Poon Hill and Muldai Viewpoint, showcasing Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Nilgiri Himal in golden splendor, a must for photographers and nature lovers.
Khopra ridge trek features
Duration of your trek
Day-min : The minimum number of days required for the trek (from Kathmandu to Kathmandu)
Day-max : The maximum number of days you can spend on this trek. A prolonged itinerary can be discussed with our team.
AWTD : Average walking time per day (<3 : easy, 3 to 5 : moderate, >5 : strenuous
Altitudes of your trek
Min : Minimum altitude of your trek.
Max : Maximum altitude of your trek.
Ascent : The total ascent throughout the trek.
Descent : The total descent throughout on the trek.
Difficulty of your trek
Stamina : The physical effort involved during your trek. Rated from 0 (easiest) to 100 (most strenuous). If you have an average fitness you can consider all the treks up to 50. See here for more details
Technical : Difficulty of your trek in terms of exposure to danger and required experience.
0 to 20 : No difficulties,
20 to 40 : Walking on good mountain trails,
40 to 60 : Some walking on difficult mountain trails (steep slopes, rocks, etc.),
60 to 80: You are exposed to some dangers (void, snow, falling rocks, etc.),
80 to 100 : Experience required (please inquire).
Overall : Average between Stamina and Technical rating.
Duration
Altitudes
Difficulty
Khopra ridge trek map
Khopra Ridge Trek Map with illustrative itinerary
The Khopra Ridge Valley trek will ideally take 12 days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu. We can customise the trek for you if you would like to spend more time at the lodges en route or extend your tour in Nepal and/or India. It would be ideal to spend a few extra nights on the trail to have a greater opportunity to immerse oneself in the mesmerising sunrise and sunset views. If you have more days for your tour, you can consider visiting the Chitwan National Park before heading back to Kathmandu and finishing your tour in Nepal.
Khopra ridge trek elevation profile
Trek ascent and descent
The Khopra ridge trek involves a moderate ascent and descent. Trekkers ascend through lush rhododendron forests and charming Gurung villages. The trek can be attempted by beginners with a decent fitness level. On most days, you will walk for 4 to 5 hours, except for the Khayer lake, where you will walk for 8 hours.
Khopra ridge trek, best time to go
The best time to trek to the Khopra ridge is in spring from March to May and then in autumn from September to December. You may expect light snowfall in December. Given that this is a ridge trek, engaging during the monsoon is not recommended.
JAN
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MAR
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JUN
Avoid
JUL
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AUG
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SEP
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From our gallery
Khopra Ridge Trek photos
Itinerary
Day One : From Delhi [220m] to Kathmandu [1400m]
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You may need to arrive in Delhi before you fly to Nepal. The Kathmandu airport has very few direct flights from Europe/US/UK. There are frequent flights from Delhi to Nepal. A 90 minute flight will take you from Delhi to Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. It would be ideal to reach Kathmandu by 4 PM so you can check in at your hotel and relax for a while. In the evening, embark on a short 15-minute drive to vibrant Lazimpat, the heart of Kathmandu. Savor an exquisite welcome dinner at Nepali Chulo, an iconic restaurant housed in a beautifully restored 200-year-old mansion, showcasing neo-European architecture from the historic Rana regime. Delight in authentic Nepali cuisine while immersed in a captivating cultural performance, blending traditional music and dance for an unforgettable start to your journey. |
Day Two : Kathmandu [1400m] to Pokhara [830m]
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We will take an early morning bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The bus journey will take around 7 to 8 hours. Volvo semi-sleeper bus for travel. Alternatively, we can also arrange a private taxi, or you may choose to fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara. A journey by flight will take 30 minutes. Check in at your hotel and relax |
Day Three : Pokhara [830m] to Ulleri [2050m] via Tikhedhunga [1540m]
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The journey begins with a scenic 42-km drive to Nayapul, the primary trailhead for treks like Ghorepani Poon Hill and Khopra Ridge. A winding route offering glimpses of terraced fields, the Bhurungdi Khola River, and distant Himalayan peaks like Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. From Tikhedhunga, the trek to Ulleri is a short but intense 2-3 hour hike. The trail follows the Bhurungdi Khola, winding through lush forests of rhododendron and oak, and small hamlets like Sudame and Hile. The highlight—or challenge—is the infamous “Ulleri Steps,” a gruelling ascent of over 3,000 stone steps. |
Day Four : Ulleri [2050m] to Ghorepani [2860m]
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A key segment of the Khopra Ridge and Poon Hill treks. Starting from Ulleri, the trail ascends gradually through dense rhododendron and oak forests. You’ll pass Banthanti, a small settlement with teahouses, before climbing steadily to Nangethanti, where trekkers often pause for tea with views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre. The path winds through shaded forests and crosses small streams, offering glimpses of Himalayan wildlife like langur monkeys. The final push to Ghorepani, a bustling Magar village, involves a steeper ascent, rewarding you with panoramic vistas of Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Annapurna I (8,091m). |
Day Five : Ghorepani [2860m] to Swanta [2400m] via Poon Hill [3210m]
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Starting early, ascend 45 minutes to Poon Hill, a renowned viewpoint offering breathtaking sunrise views over Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, and Machhapuchhre. The 300m climb is steep but manageable, with stone steps and open meadows. After soaking in the panoramic Himalayan vistas, return to Ghorepani for breakfast. The trail to Swanta descends through rhododendron and oak forests. The trail’s forests burst with Nepal’s national flower, rhododendrons, in spring (March-April), creating a colourful canopy. |
Day Six : Swanta [2400m] to Dhankharka [3000m]
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You start climbing gently through neat terraced fields and colourful rhododendron patches, catching quick peeks of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre. The path crosses little streams and old-school villages, pulling you right into the heart of Gurung and Magar life. As you go higher, it gets steeper, winding through pine trees and open fields, with Dhaulagiri popping into view, bigger and bolder. Dhankharka’s a tiny spot with friendly community lodges and killer mountain views, setting you up for the ridge walk next.. |
Day Seven : Dhankharka [3000m] to Khopra Danda [3660m]
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The path kicks off with a steady uphill climb through a mix of sparse rhododendron forests and open, rocky terrain. It’s not too brutal, but you’ll feel the altitude, so take it slow. As you push above the tree line, the views open up—Annapurna South looms just 6 km away, and Dhaulagiri’s massive bulk dominates the western horizon. You might spot Himalayan tahr or colourful pheasants darting around. The trail gets rugged, with some narrow, rocky stretches, but nothing crazy. By lunchtime, you hit Khopra Danda’s lone teahouse, surrounded by jaw-dropping peaks like Nilgiri and Machhapuchhre. |
Day Eight : Khopra Danda [3660m] to Khayer Lake [4660m]
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We will engage in a round trek today to ascend to Khayer lake and return to Khopra Danda by evening. You set out early, climbing a steep, narrow trail through grassy slopes and rocky paths. The air thins as you ascend, and the scenery shifts to stark alpine terrain, with jaw-dropping views of Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Annapurna I keeping you company. The trail can be tough—loose rocks and some snow in early spring—but the reward is Khayer Lake, a sacred turquoise gem nestled below Annapurna South. Locals revere it for its spiritual vibes, and you’ll feel the magic. |
Day Nine : Khopra Danda [3660m] to Dobato [3425m]
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You’re in for a treat as you walk along the ridge with killer views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South right in your face. The trail starts with a gentle descent to Chhistibang, about 1-2 hours in, winding through grassy slopes and patches of rhododendron. From there, it’s a mix of ups and downs through open meadows and sparse forests, passing Bayeli after another 1-2 hours. The path dips and climbs slightly, with Machhapuchhre peeking through. The final stretch to Dobato is a steady descent, landing you at cozy teahouses with epic sunrise views from nearby Muldai Viewpoint. |
Day Ten : Dobato [3425m] to Pokhara [830m] via Ghandruk [1940m]
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You kick off with a short climb to Muldai Viewpoint (3,700m), about 30 minutes up, for a killer sunrise over Annapurna I and Dhaulagiri. Then, the trail drops steadily through dense rhododendron and oak forests, passing Isthanti after 2-3 hours, where you’ll spot grazing yaks and local shepherds. The path gets steeper, winding through terraced fields and small streams, hitting Tadapani, a lively village with teahouses, around the 4-hour mark. From Tadapani, it’s a gentler 2-hour descent to Ghandruk, a charming Gurung village with stone houses and epic views of Machhapuchhre. |
Day Eleven : Pokhara [830m] to Kathmandu [1400m]
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Drive or fly back to Kathmandu. To extend your trip in Nepal, you can consider driving to Chitwan National Park for a couple of days before you head to Kathmandu. |
Day Twelve : Kathmandu [1400m] to Delhi
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Fly back to Delhi. You can book your international flights for later in the evening from Delhi. You can ask us for recommendations for a trip in India if you plan on exploring the region. |
Gallery
Khopra Ridge Trek photos
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