Khopra Ridge Trek (a.k.a Khopra Danda Trek) is a beautiful trekking destination inside the Annapurna region of Nepal, which is still not known by many. The beautiful mountain views of the Annapurna South 7,219 m, Nilgiri mountain 7,061m, Machapuchhare mountains 6,993 m, and the Dhaulagiri mountain 8,167m are a lifetime moment to witness, as it looks so beautiful as if someone has painted the whole mountain range with the gold and pink colour hue, which looks perfect to the eye.
| Day | Acitivity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu (1400M) |
| Day 2 | Fly to Pokhara and drive to Ghandruk (1940M) |
| Day 3 | Trek from Ghandruk to Dobato (3420M) |
| Day 4 | Trek from Dobato to Chistibung (3000M) |
| Day 5 | Trek from Chistibung to Khopra Ridge (3640M) |
| Day 6 | Acclimatization and Exploration Day at Khopra Ridge (3640M) |
| Day 7 | Trek from Khopra Ridge to Swata (2200M) |
| Day 8 | Trek from Swata to Ulleri (1960M) |
| Day 9 | Trek Down to Nayapul and Drive to Pokhara (822M) |
| Day 10 | Fly Back to Kathmandu (1400M) |
| Day 11 | Departure from Kathmandu |
The trek is less crowded, similar to the Manaslu circuit, and it leads to one of the sacred destinations, which is Khayar Lake. It is a holy pilgrimage site at an altitude of 4,500m, which is visited during the Janai Purnima, similar to Langtang Region Gosainkunda lake.
The Khopra ridge trek takes you to an altitude of 3,640 meters, which is a perfect place to witness the beautiful views and explore the local culture and traditions of the people. The villages that take you to the Khopra ridge are Gurung villages, as the Annapurna region is known for the Gurung villages, foods, customs, culture, traditions, and warm hospitality.
There are many reasons why the Khopra ridge trek should be on your bucket list, like offering the best views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges from the viewpoint. The sunrise and sunset on the mountains are the best part of this trek, as you can witness different mountain ranges like Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Himchuli. The Khopra ridge is a high alpine meadow that looks like a magical place. The place is also less crowded, which gives an advantage to experience the place raw and authentic. When trekking to Khopra ridge, you will be walking via the rhododendron forests, high ridges, terraced villages, and open ridgelines.
Also, you will be walking through small Gurung and Magar villages, giving a glimpse into traditional Himalayan life. You can experience the local foods, culture, and hospitality in teahouses. Also, if you are a photographer or love to click pictures, then it's the best place for you as the combination of ridges, snow-capped peaks, and traditional villages makes it a photographer’s paradise. When you are walking along the ridge, it gives you a 360-degree view of mountains and valleys, which you don’t get from other trekking trails.
The journey to the Khopra Danda Trek starts by driving from Kathmandu to Pokhara, which is the main gateway to the Annapurna region. The distance from Kathmandu to Pokhara is 200 km, which is 124 miles. Driving from Kathmandu takes about six to eight hours on a scenic highway that takes you along the Trishuli River. It's the best option if you prefer travelling affordably but want to enjoy the countryside views.
If you want, you can also fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara, which will be 25 25-minute flight. There are several airlines like Buddha Air, Yeti Air, and Simrik Air, which conduct flights throughout the day. The cost will be higher compared to driving, but you can save a lot of time by opting for the flight. You can also witness the breathtaking views of the Langtang, Manaslu, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri ranges throughout the flight.
Ghandruk is one of the most popular and highly recommended starting points for the Khopra Danda Trek. The distance between Pokhara and Ghandruk is 57 km. From Pokhara, it takes about two to three hours of driving via a mixed road of paved parts and rough jeep paths. You'll witness the views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre mountains. Starting from Ghandruk will allow you to get right into the mountain scenery, cultural experience, and peaceful forest trails from the very beginning of this trek. This route is highly suggested because it combines convenience, beauty, and easy access to trails right from the very beginning.
The other option for starting the Khopra Danda Trek is from Nayapul, which is also the gateway to the Annapurna Base Camp trek. The distance between Pokhara and Nayapul is 40km. The drive to Nayapul from Pokhara takes one and a half to two hours. This is a common starting point for numerous treks of the Annapurna area, mainly routes toward Ghorepani and Poon Hill. If you prefer to begin conventionally and want to experience village life, terraced farmlands, and riverside trails, then starting your trek from Nayapul will be best. This is where your trek will begin, slowly going uphill toward the Khopra region.
Tatopani can also be another starting point of the Khopra Danda Trek, especially for those who would want to make a reverse route. The distance between Pokhara and Tatopani is 96km. The drive from Pokhara to Tatopani takes four to five hours via Beni on a road following the Kali Gandaki River. Tatopani is famous for its natural hot springs, thus becoming an attractive starting point of this trek if you intend to have a relaxing start before actually commencing to climb upward to Khopra Ridge. The trail from Tatopani goes uphill through forests and villages toward Ghorepani and then connects to the Khopra route.
The Khopra Danda Trek is situated within the Annapurna Conservation Area, and hence all trekkers must acquire the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, commonly known as ACAP. This permit assists in conservation programs, trail maintenance, local development, and environmental protection within the region. No entry or trekking is allowed inside the protected area without an ACAP.
The price of the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit is subject to your nationality. Usually, for foreigners, it ranges around three thousand Nepalese rupees. This price remains constant without any variation for trekkers, irrespective of the number of days you stay inside the conservation area. Nepali citizens and SAARC nationals pay a lower amount, while the standard rate is applied to foreign nationals.
For the ACAP permit, trekkers need a valid passport, a photocopy of that passport, and two passport-sized photographs. These are used to identify you, and your permit will be prepared accordingly. All the items mentioned above should be in hard form, as sometimes the authorities may not accept digital copies.
The ACAP permit can be acquired in Kathmandu or Pokhara. In Kathmandu, the permit is issued from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Bhrikutimandap. In Pokhara, the trekkers can visit the Nepal Tourism Board office at Lakeside. In both offices, the permit is issued on the very same day, and the process normally takes just a few minutes after submitting all the required documents.
Along with ACAP, trekkers also require the Trekkers' Information Management System card, commonly referred to as the TIMS card. It is used to keep records of trekkers for safety purposes, rescue operations, and tracking in case of emergencies. The TIMS card helps ensure that trekkers are registered and accounted for while making their way through remote trails such as Khopra Danda.
The prices of a TIMS card are differentiated by the type of trekkers: a guided trekker usually pays a little less than the regular rate charged to solo trekkers. For most foreigners, it will be around two thousand Nepalese rupees. It is valid for the whole time it takes on a trek.
The application for the TIMS card requires submission of a valid passport, its photocopy, along with two passport-sized photos, and basic personal information, including contact details in case of emergencies. However, the application form should be submitted at the permit office, following which the card would be issued on the spot.
The TIMS card is available from the same places where ACAP is issued. Trekkers can obtain it in Kathmandu or Pokhara from the offices of the Nepal Tourism Board. Most trekkers prefer getting both ACAP and TIMS in Pokhara since it is the starting point for Annapurna region treks, including Khopra Danda. The process is pretty simple and quick, generally completed within the same visit.
Important Note
Also, if you are trekking with an agency like us, then the permits are issued by the trekking agencies, so you will not need to reach the permit offices. The permits will be provided to you by your guide when starting the trek.
The best time of year for trekking the Khopra Danda trail is autumn. During this time, there is stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, making it one of the most pleasant seasons for trekking in Nepal. The air becomes crisper and cleaner immediately after the monsoon, and the views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges are stunning.
During autumn, the weather is generally dry, with mild daytime temperatures and cool nighttime temperatures. The skies remain mostly cloudless, allowing trekkers almost every day to enjoy long-range Himalayan views. Rainfall is minimal, and the trails are in excellent condition, as the landslides and slippery sections gradually dry up after the monsoon.
Autumn is considered the most scenic and comfortable time to trek. It offers perfect visibility, ideal for photography and panoramic mountain viewing from the top of Khopra Ridge. Cultural events like Dashain and Tihar also come during this time of the year, which allows trekkers to enjoy vibrant local traditions. The overall trek atmosphere is pleasant, safe, and full of energy; thus, autumn is the most recommended time of the year for Khopra Danda trekking.
Another great time for trekking to Khopra Danda is during spring. The entire region then comes alive with blooming rhododendron forests, colored wildflowers, and warm temperatures. Nature changes from winter into summer, meaning trekkers enjoy a fresh and lively atmosphere.
The weather conditions in spring are mild and comfortable. Days are warm, nights are moderately cool, and skies are mostly clear in the morning, with the appearance of clouds in the afternoon. Snow from winter starts melting, and trails become accessible and more pleasant to walk on.
This is the ideal season for trekkers who want to enjoy nature and vibrant landscapes. The forests of the rhododendron between Tadapani, Dobato, and Bayeli become stunningly beautiful, thereby forming some of the most colorful trails in the Annapurna region. The mountain scenery remains pretty impressive, while temperatures are ideal for long trekking days. Besides, spring is less crowded compared to autumn, so this trek will be peaceful and enjoyable.
Winter trekking to Khopra Danda is possible and can be incredibly rewarding for those who enjoy solitude and crisp mountain landscapes. The region becomes quieter, offering a peaceful atmosphere that is harder to find during peak seasons. Also, during this time, there is heavy snowfall, making it a snow wonderland.
Winter gets cold temperatures, especially at the higher altitude of Khopra Ridge. While days are clear and sunny, nighttime temperatures often fall below freezing. Sometimes there is snowfall above 3,000 meters, which converts the hills and mountains around into a beautiful landscape covered with snow.
Winter brings the clearest skies of the whole year. The views are spectacular, and sunrise and sunset from Khopra Ridge will be unforgettable. Winter trekking will be ideal for trekkers who like fewer crowds, tranquil trails, and immaculate snowy landscapes. The cool air also makes it easier to hike for those who do not like the heat.
Basically, the monsoon is the least recommended time for trekking in the Khopra Danda trail. This time of the year is marked by heavy rainfall, humid air, cloud-covered mountains, and difficult trail conditions. However, due to certain reasons, some trekkers still prefer this season.
The consistent rainfall in the Annapurna area throughout the monsoon makes trails muddy and slippery, while rivers swell, and leeches are common in forested areas. Mountain scenery is often obscured by cloud; therefore, the views are variable. Temperature-wise, the days remain warm and humid.
Monsoon trekking has its perks: lush green forests, fresh streams, and a quiet trail with hardly any trekkers. Nature is at its most vibrant, and the entire landscape feels alive and refreshing. For photographers who like foggy forests and moody weather, this season can be appealing.
Despite its beauty, monsoon trekking presents a number of challenges. Heavy rain increases the risk of landslides, slippery paths, and poor visibility. Mountain views are limited, accommodation availability may not be consistent, and transportation delays are common due to weather. For those reasons, monsoon is not recommended unless you are experienced and prepared for some unpredictability.
The packing list for the Khopra ridge trek depends on the season you are trekking. Some gears and equipment are the same for every season, meanwhile others differ. So we have divided the packing list according to the seasons.
Autumn is one of the most comfortable seasons for trekking to Khopra Ridge, so the packing list focuses on mild days, cool evenings, and stable weather. During this season, you should carry lightweight yet warm clothing, including moisture-wicking base layers, a comfortable trekking shirt, and a mid-layer fleece for cooler mornings. A warm but not overly heavy down jacket is necessary because temperatures drop at higher altitudes during the evenings. Good-quality trekking pants, sturdy hiking boots, and a reliable rain jacket are essential, as short post-monsoon rain showers may still occur in early September.
Basic trekking gear, such as trekking poles, a headlamp, reusable water bottles, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, is also recommended. A sleeping bag with moderate warmth is usually sufficient for the colder nights on the ridge.
Spring requires a packing list designed for warmer daytime temperatures and occasional afternoon clouds. You should carry breathable clothing that allows comfortable walking in mild heat, including lightweight trekking shirts and comfortable pants. Because spring mornings and nights can still be chilly, a fleece jacket and a medium-weight down jacket remain important. The rhododendron forests can be humid, so quick-drying clothes are ideal. A sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and plenty of hydration options are necessary because the days are warmer and sunnier. Light rain gear should be packed as well because pre-monsoon showers are possible. A sleeping bag suitable for moderately cold nights and comfortable trekking shoes for long walking days are also essential.
Monsoon trekking requires the most specialized packing because heavy rain, humidity, and slippery trails are common. You need to focus on waterproof and quick-drying materials. A high-quality rain jacket, waterproof backpack cover, and fast-drying trekking shirts and pants are essential to stay comfortable. Waterproof trekking boots or footwear with a strong grip help in muddy and wet conditions. Anti-leech spray or salt is useful for forested areas. Moisture-wicking socks, a lightweight fleece, and breathable layers help manage humidity. A rain poncho or full-body rain protection is helpful for long walking days in constant rainfall. Electronics and important documents must be stored in dry bags to keep them safe. A slightly lighter sleeping bag is usually enough because temperatures remain warm during this season.
Winter trekking to Khopra Ridge requires warm and insulating items designed for cold winds, freezing mornings, and snowfall at higher altitudes. Trekkers should pack thermal base layers, a thick fleece, and a high-quality down jacket with strong insulation. Warm trekking pants, woollen socks, insulated gloves, a winter beanie, and a neck gaiter help protect against cold air. Sturdy trekking boots are mandatory, and they should be warm enough for snow-covered sections. A four-season sleeping bag is highly recommended because temperatures at Khopra Ridge can drop significantly at night. Sunscreen and sunglasses are still necessary because winter sun combined with snow can be harsh. Microspikes or small ice grips may also be helpful if the trail becomes icy. Essential gear such as trekking poles, a headlamp, and multiple layers for temperature management complete the winter packing list.
Namaste and Welcome to Nepal. Upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by our representative, who will assist you with your luggage and transfer you to your hotel in Thamel or any other place of your choice. After checking into your Hotel, you can relax. In the afternoon, you can take time to rest or stroll around the bustling streets of Thamel. This lively tourist district is filled with shops, cafés, and cultural attractions, giving you a taste of Nepal’s vibrant atmosphere.
| Elevation | 1400 |
|---|
After breakfast at our hotel, we will take a drive to Tribhuvan International Airport and will take a scenic 25-minute flight to Pokhara, enjoying breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayan peaks.
Upon arrival in Pokhara, a private vehicle will drive us towards Ghandruk, one of the most picturesque Gurung villages in the Annapurna region. The village offers magnificent views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre, along with a warm cultural welcome. We will spend the evening exploring the village and enjoying the peaceful mountain surroundings.
| Elevation | 1940 |
|---|
Our trek begins with a beautiful journey through dense rhododendron and oak forests. As the trail gradually ascends, the views of the Annapurna mountain range become increasingly impressive. The trek is peaceful, refreshing, and filled with natural beauty. By afternoon, we will reach Dobato, a serene high-altitude settlement known for its exceptional sunrise and sunset viewpoints.
| Elevation | 3420 |
|---|
Today’s trek takes us along forested pathways and open meadows that offer a mix of alpine scenery and quiet landscapes. The trail descends slightly before entering a series of gentle ascents that lead toward Chistibung. Along the way, we may encounter yak herders and observe the traditional highland lifestyle of the region. Chistibung is a peaceful resting point surrounded by natural beauty.
| Elevation | 3000 |
|---|
A steady and rewarding uphill climb leads us toward Khopra Ridge, one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the entire Annapurna region. As we reach the top, the panoramic scenery opens up dramatically, revealing sweeping views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Annapurna South, Tukuche Peak, and the surrounding valleys. The serenity and grandeur of this ridge make it a highlight of the entire trek. Overnight at Khopra Ridge.
| Elevation | 3640 |
|---|
Today is dedicated to acclimatization and exploration. You can choose to rest and enjoy the mesmerizing scenery from the ridge or take an optional full-day hike to Khayar Lake at 4,620 meters. The lake holds significant religious value for both Hindus and Buddhists and sits in a dramatic setting surrounded by towering mountains. The journey to the lake is challenging but spiritually rewarding, making it one of the most memorable experiences of the trek. Overnight at Khopra Ridge.
| Elevation | 3640 |
|---|
The trail descends from Khopra Ridge into dense forests, passing through traditional villages and terraced farmlands. As we lose altitude, the landscape gradually shifts into warmer, greener surroundings. Swata is a charming village offering peaceful rural scenery and a relaxing atmosphere after several days at higher altitudes.
| Elevation | 2200 |
|---|
Today’s descent continues through terraced fields, forested paths, and small settlements as we make our way to Ulleri. This village is famous for its long stone steps and stunning views of the surrounding hills. Ulleri’s welcoming atmosphere and alpine charm make it a pleasant place to spend the night.
| Elevation | 1960 |
|---|
On our final trekking day, we will descend gradually to Nayapul, passing through villages and riverside trails. At Nayapul, a private vehicle will be waiting to drive you back to Pokhara. After checking into your hotel, you can spend the evening relaxing by Phewa Lake or enjoying Pokhara’s lakeside cafés. Overnight at a hotel in Pokhara.
| Elevation | 822 |
|---|
In the morning, you will board a short flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, our representative will transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for shopping, exploring cultural sites, or simply relaxing before your departure.
| Food | 1400 |
|---|---|
| Elevation | 1400 |
After breakfast, our team will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international flight. As you head home, we hope you carry unforgettable memories of the Khopra Ridge trek and the stunning Himalayan landscapes of Nepal.
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