Group picture taken at Khopra ridge.Group picture taken at Khopra ridge.

Khopra Danda Trek 12 Days

Quick Facts
  • Trip Duration12 Days
  • Destination Nepal
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Maximum Altitude 4660 m/15,157 ft (Khayer Lake)
  • Activity Trek
  • Starts/Ends Kimche/Nayapul
  • Group Size 1-16
  • Transportation Drive Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kimche and Nayapul-Pokhara-Kathmandu
  • Best Season Spring & Autumn
Why You'll Love This Trip

Join a less crowded but extremely adventurous and beautiful trekking routes in the Annapurna region

  • A perfect alternative to Ghorepani Poon Hill trek with views ten times much better
  • The trail ascends and descends through dense forests and small villages
  • Enjoy a bit offbeat trek, following isolated tracks 
  • Ideal for beginner trekkers looking for something new in the Himalayas
  • Contribute to the local communities as you spend nights in small villages along the trail
  • Get to see the lifestyle, culture, and practices of the locals
  • The trail is full of flora, fauna, rivers, streams, ridges, and waterfalls
  • Witness breathtaking mountain panoramas and diverse landscapes
  • Spend a night in the popular Ghandruk village, surrounded by stunning peaks
  • Get to see a captivating distant view of Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world, from Khopra Danda
  • Explore the holy Khayer Lake, the highest point of the trek
  • Enjoy solitude, crisp mountain air, and captivating morning mists

Also known as the Khopra Ridge trek, the Khopra Danda trek is one of the immersing trekking routes in the famous Annapurna region. This trek is perfect if you wish to avoid the crowd of the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek. In just 12 days of trekking, you will explore lush forests and beautiful villages and witness breathtaking landscapes. 

The Khopra Danda trek is perfect for beginner trekkers. It is more like a community trek, and at the end of each day you will spend time with local communities and get to see their unique lifestyle in remote mountains. The trail is adventurous and a bit off-beat. You will cross rushing rivers and pass by cascading waterfalls along the way. 

During the Khopra Danda trekking, the mountains you will get to see are the Annapurna Range (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m/22,943 ft), Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), Hiunchuli (6,441 m/21,132 ft), Tukuche (6,920 m/22,703 ft), Dhampus Peak (6,012 m/19,724 ft), etc. Moreover, this trek offers some of the best landscapes you will ever come across.

The Khopra Danda trek 12 days starts with a comfortable and scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The starting point of the trail is Kimche (1,784 m/5,853 ft). From here, we will trek through Gurung, Magar, Brahmin, and Chhetris villages. The trail goes past villages like Ghandruk (1,940 m/6,364 ft) and Tadapani (2,650 m/8,694 ft). 

If you wish, you can combine Ghorepani and Poon Hill trek with the Khopra Danda trek. Tadapani onwards, we will follow a different route that leads to Bayeli Kharka (3,450 m/11,318 ft) and further ascends to Upper Chistibung (2,975 m/9,760 ft). Once we are close to Khopra Danda (3,660 m/12,008 ft), we will follow alpine meadows and pastures. 

From here, we can see a stunning distant view of Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world, and numerous snow-capped peaks. The final destination of the Khopra Danda trek is Khayer Lake. Located at 4,620 meters (15,157 ft), Khayer Lake is the highest point of Khopra Danda trekking. 

It is a holy lake and is known as a pilgrimage site. During the month of Janai Purnima (usually August), many pilgrims visit this lake to worship and get blessings. Overall, the Khopra Danda trek route is full of adventure, cultural immersion, and great mountain views. It is one of the must-do easy treks in Nepal. 

Can I do the Khopra Danda trek without a guide?

No, trekking alone is banned in the Annapurna region as of 2022, 1st April. Trekking with a knowledgeable guide can prove invaluable, particularly in the face of unforeseen emergencies that may arise during your trek. With a guide, you can confidently conquer the trek, ensuring both safety and comfort. 

Khopra Danda trek permits

To do the Khopra Danda trek, two permits are required- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit and a TIMS Card. Our Khopra Danda trek costs fees for both permits, so you do not have to pay additional money. Likewise, our team will also get all the permits for the trek on your behalf, saving you time and hassle. 

Benefits of doing Khopra Danda trekking with us 

To enjoy a smooth and hassle-free trek in the Himalayas, join Nature Excursion. We are a team of professional and friendly individuals who are passionate about traveling and providing the best trekking ventures in Nepal to foreigners. With us, you will get the finest Khopra Danda trek cost with no hidden policy or charges. Likewise, our team is very reliable and experienced, so we assure you of a safe trekking venture. 

Below are some of the benefits you will get by trekking with Nature Excursion:

  • free farewell dinner
  • free airport pickup and drop off
  • flexible itinerary
  • budget-friendly trekking packages
  • duffel bag and company t-shirt (you have to return the duffel bag at the end of the trek and keep the t-shirt with yourself)
  • fix departure
  • 24/7 support
  • no hidden costs
  • native guides & porters

Other easy treks in Nepal

No trek in the Himalayas is easy, but there are a handful of trails that are moderate and recommended to beginner trekkers. Some of them are the Mardi Himal trek, Mohare Danda trek, Jomsom Muktinath trek, Langtang Valley trek, Ghorepani Ghandruk trek, Helambu trek, Everest Panorama trek, etc. 

Likewise, you can also customize the Khopra Danda trek package with us. Our bookings are open for the Khopra Danda trek 2024/2025. Book your trek early to get a special discount on groups. If you have any questions, feel free to talk to us.

Khopra Danda Trek 12 Days pictures and video
KHOPRA DANDA TREK | GHOREPANI | KHOPRA DANDA 2023

Itinerary

Day1

From Kathmandu, we will use a nice tourist van or bus as per the group size to travel to Pokhara. The ride is long and follows a beautiful highway. During the drive, we will witness stunning landscapes of lush green hills, rivers, narrow waterfalls, and snow-capped mountains. In Pokhara, the guide will drop you at the hotel. Spend the remaining day relaxing at Phewa Lake and exploring the Lakeside Market.

  • Max. Altitude:822 m/2,697 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast and lunch
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Duration:6-7 hours
Day2

After an early morning breakfast, we will get ready to leave the hotel. The guide will pick you up from the hotel and drive to Kimche. Up to Nayapul, the ride will be comfortable, and from here onward, it is an off road ride to Kimche via Syauli Bazar. We will start hiking from Kimche to Ghandruk village. The hike will not be stressful. The trail follows verdant hills and lush forests.

  • Max. Altitude:1,940 m/6,364 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Duration:2.5 hours drive & 2 hours trek
Day3

The trail from Ghandruk to Tadapani goes through beautiful Gurung villages and rhododendron forests. We can see birds chirping on the way along with gushing rivers. The trail gradually ascends to Bherikharka and continues through the lush forest to Tadapani for the night stay. We will see views of Annapurna South and other snow-capped mountains on the way.

  • Max. Altitude:2,650 m/8,694 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Duration:4-5 hours
Day4

Leaving Tadapani, we will follow a rugged path. The trail is quite isolated and goes through forests of rhododendron and oak. The view of Mt. Dhaulagiri is phenomenal along the way. It is the seventh-highest mountain in the world. We will gradually ascend to Bayeli Kharka to spend the night.

  • Max. Altitude:3,450 m/11,318 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Duration:5-7 hours
Day5

The trail from Bayeli Kharka descends following an open ground and passes by lush forests. Soon, we will begin trekking via the pastures of Lower Chistibung. The trail then follows an uphill route through the forest to Upper Chistibung. It is a temporary herder's settlement. Here, we may get to see Danphe- the national bird of Nepal and the Himalayan tahr.

  • Max. Altitude:2,975 m/9,760 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Duration:5-6 hours
Day6

On this day, we will go above 3,000 meters. From Upper Chistibung, the trail steeply ascends and goes beyond the tree line. We will follow alpine meadows and pastures to reach Khopra Ridge. On the way, we will have frequent short breaks to maintain our energy. The trekking route is remote. We may see the Himalayan tahr and Danphe today as well. Upon reaching Khopra Ridge, we will get to witness a jaw-dropping panorama of Annapurna South. 

It is a short trekking day, so we will reach our night stop quite early. After having lunch and some rest, we will stroll down the Khopra Ridge to a viewpoint. From here, we will see a stunning distant view of Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world. Likewise, the viewpoint also offers breathtaking views of mountains like Nilgiri, Annapurna Range, Dhaulagiri Range, etc. 

 

  • Max. Altitude:3,660 m/12,008 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Duration:4-5 hours
Day7

Today, we will spend a rest day in Khopra. For a light excursion, we will hike to Khayer Lake. It takes around 4 hours to hike and come back. Khayer Lake is a holy lake with a fantastic view of Mt. Fang (7,647 m) and many other mountains. As per the belief of Hindus, taking a bath in this lake will help you achieve Nirvana. There are many shrines and temples around the lake. After enjoying our time here, we will hike back to Khopra to spend the night.

  • Max. Altitude:4,620 m/15,157 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Duration:4-5 hours
Day8

We will begin the day early with a delicious breakfast. Leaving Khopra Ridge, we will begin trekking towards Swanta village. The trail gradually descends through meadows and lush forests. We will be trekking in an isolated area. Swanta village is known for its community cheese factory. Here, we will go for a cheese tasting and can also buy some as souvenirs.

  • Max. Altitude:2,214 m/7,874 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Duration:4-5 hours
Day9

From Swanta village, we will continue trekking to Ghorepani village. Following a downhill trail, we will descend from the village through fields and react at a small river. Crossing the river via a suspension bridge, the trail ascends to Chittre village. From here, we will ascend further to Ghorepani village through rhododendron forests. From Ghorepani village, we can see stunning views of mountains like Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, etc.

  • Max. Altitude:2,880 m/9,350 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Duration:5 hours
Day10

Today, before the sunrises, we will hike to the Poon Hill viewpoint. It is a famous viewpoint in the lower part of the Annapurna region from where one can see a beautiful mountain panorama. The hiking route is lovely but rugged. Upon reaching the top, we will witness a gorgeous sunrise in the backdrop of stretching snow-capped mountains. After enjoying the view, we will hike back to Ghorepani village. The trail then descends through dense forests and small settlements to Hile. 

 

  • Max. Altitude:3,210 m/10,525 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Duration:6-7 hours
Day11

Today is our last trekking day. It is a light descent from Birethanti to Nayapul. Most of the trail goes through forests of oak and rhododendron. We will walk past small villages and cross suspension bridges on the way. From Nayapul, we will use a local jeep and drive to Pokhara. The ride will be short. We will have a lot of time in Pokhara to rest and relax. 

 

  • Max. Altitude:822 m/2,697 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast and lunch
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Duration:3-4 hours
Day12

Leaving Pokhara early in the morning, we will drive to Kathmandu. The ride is scenic and goes along the Trishuli river and lush green rolling hills. In Kathmandu, the guide will drop you at the hotel. You have the remaining day free. It is time to unpack and pack your luggage again to leave Kathmandu. Explore nearby tourist areas and shop souvenirs for your loved ones. We will have a farewell dinner in the late evening. 

 

  • Max. Altitude:1,400 m/4,600 ft
  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch, and farewell dinner
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Duration:6-7 hours
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Cost Details
Includes
  • Free airport pickup and drop off services during the arrival and departure date From and To the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA)
  • Transportation cost from Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu on a tourist bus
  • Transportation cost from Pokhara-Kimche, and Nayapul-Pokhara
  • All meals during the Khopra Danda Trek (11 breakfast, 12 lunches, and 10 dinner)
  • All accommodation during the trek in the himalaya 
  • Government licensed, English speaking, experienced Nature Excursions native guide with his meals, salary, transportation, insurance and all necessary equipment. An assistant guide group of 6 or more trekker
  • Strong Sherpa/porter to help your luggage, 1 porter for two trekker (luggage weight limit is 10 kg per trekker)
  • Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card fees
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fee
  • All government, local taxes and official expenses
  • Duffle bag, Down jacket and sleeping bag as per your request (has to return after the trek completion)
  • Snacks (cookies) and seasonal fresh fruit everyday
  • Purification tablets for safe drinking water
  • First aid kit box carried by the guide
  • Company t-shirt
  •  Farewell dinner in kathmandu at nepali cultural restaurant (complimentary)
Excludes
  • International flight fare
  • Nepal entry visa fees at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), 15 days- $ 25, 30 days- $40-50, and 90 days- $ 100-110
  • All hotel and meals in Kathmandu except farewell dinner
  • Hotel and meals in Pokhara due to late departure or early return from the trek than schedule itinerary
  • Personal expenses, such as- tea/coffee, hard and soft drinks, shopping, boiled water, hot bag, internet, hot shower, laundry, extra porter etc.
  • Personal clothing and gear
  • All the cost and expenses which are not listed in include section
  • Travel insurance which has to cover emergencies high altitude rescue and evacuation
  • Additional cost due to delays caused by circumstances beyond our control like- landslide, itinerary modification due to safety concern, weather condition, illness, change of government policies and strikes
  • Tips for guide and porters

Clients Reviews

  • Very good trekking

    Me and my friend did Ghorepani Poon hill trek with Raju. It was an amazing one week short trekking experience in the high mountain. Very highly recommended trekking company, Nature Excursion Pvt. Ltd in Nepal. Raju is a very expertise guide, he knows everyone and all the places. He’s Also such a nice guy. We really enjoyed it.

    Viggy B
    Viggy BSpainAug 05, 2023
    TripAdvisor
Useful Information

Last-minute Khopra Danda trek booking

Reach out to us for a last-minute Khopra Danda trek booking. We may have last-minute cancellations or be able to assist in finding available accommodations along the trail. Be flexible with your trekking dates and itinerary. You may have better luck securing bookings if you can adjust your plans based on availability. Make the full payment for the package and provide your details for the quick booking process. 

*Note: You will not get any refund if you cancel the last-minute booking.

Khopra Danda trek cost

The Khopra Danda trek cost starts at USD 1,100 per person. The cost may vary as per itinerary and service included in the package. You can customize the Khopra Danda trek with us as per your budget. Apart from the package, the overall trip involves many other expenses that are not covered by the package cost, so you also have to budget that. Check out our cost includes and excludes section for Khopra Danda trek on our site for more information. 

Khopra Danda trek difficulty

Khopra Danda trek is a moderate trek in the Annapurna region, so people of any age can do this trek without previous trekking experience. The section from Khopra Danda to Khayer Lake is a little bit offbeat, otherwise, there are not many difficult sections on this trek. You will follow the rugged, forested path and gradually ascend and descend via multiple ridges. The daily walking hours are 5 to 6. 

The Khopra Danda trail is not famous like EBCand ABC, so the trail is not developed. One of the major difficulties of the Khopra Danda trek is the remoteness of the region and the bare minimum of services. It is more like a community trek, so you will experience the mountain lifestyle very closely. You have to adjust a lot on this trek. Finding luxury lodges and comforts is difficult on this trek. 

Altitude Sickness

There are two high points on the Khopra Danda trek. One is Khopra Dana at 3,660 meters (12,008 ft), and the other is Khayer Lake at 4,620 meters (15,157 ft). Altitude sickness risks increase if the trail goes above 2,500 meters, so some trekkers may experience early symptoms if not cautious. Difficulty in breathing, vomiting, headache, nausea, insomnia, etc, are some of the symptoms of altitude sickness. 

If you see any of these symptoms, inform your guide immediately. Taking proper measures can help you avoid altitude sickness as well. Some of them are- drink at least 2 liters of water every day, do not smoke or drink alcohol, do not rush, get plenty of rest, have lots of good food, etc. Likewise, our guide will help you with first aid and make sure you do not get in any dangerous situation.

Accommodation & meals during the Khopra Danda trek

During the Khopra Danda trekking, we will book the most comfortable and clean teahouse for you to spend the nights. As it is a community trek, expect to experience a very local standard of accommodation. Twin shared rooms are typical, with common washrooms. Some places also have private washrooms. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you will get nice three-star hotels. 

In cities, you will get all breakfast and one complimentary dinner at the end of the trek. You are responsible for other meals. During trekking and traveling from Kathmandu to Pokhara and vice versa, you will get lunch, too. The food option on the Khopra Danda trek is limited but diverse. Dal bhat remains as a primary meal option, along with other dishes like thukpa, momo, noodles, burgers, pasta, mashed potatoes, paratha, etc. 

The best time to do Khopra Danda trekking

The best time to do the Khopra Danda trekking is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these two seasons, the weather is constant, and the climate remains favorable. The clear sky, low precipitation chance, and excellent mountain views make trekking in spring and autumn phenomenal. Likewise, you will also get to see a wide variety of flowers and festivals. 

December to February is the coldest time of the year, and the region sees heavy snowfall. Sometimes, a few sections of the trail also get blocked. However, you can do the Khopra Danda trek in winter as well. Be well prepared for cold weather, though. Trekking from June to August (summer/monsoon) is the toughest because of rainfall and bad trail conditions. It is better to avoid trekking to Khopra Danda in the summer/monsoon season, but it doesn't mean you can't trek. 

Khopra Danda trek tips

  • Travel Insurance: Travel insurance provides coverage for unexpected events and emergencies that can occur during your trek. In the remote areas of the Khopra Danda trek, having insurance that covers medical evacuation and treatment is vital, as healthcare facilities are limited. Likewise, you can also include coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged belongings such as passports, cameras, and hiking gear in your travel insurance. 
  • Passport & Visa: To embark on the Khopra Danda trek in Nepal, you will need both a valid passport and a Nepali travel visa. Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Nepal. Most travelers to Nepal can obtain a tourist visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or other entry points. These visas are typically issued for 15, 30, or 90 days, and the fees vary based on the duration. You can also apply for a tourist visa at a Nepali embassy or consulate in your home country before your trip.
  • Trek Group: Group treks can be more cost-effective than private trips, as expenses such as guide fees, permits, and accommodations are shared among participants. Trekking groups often include people from diverse backgrounds, offering opportunities to learn about different cultures and make new friends along the way. Likewise, trekking privately will give you the freedom to customize the trip as per your wish. Choose the one that best suits you. 
  • Luggage: We have one porter to two trekkers ratio. Our porter carries 20 kg, so the weight is divided 10 kg for each trekker. This is your duffel bag limit. Likewise, you can carry a daypack to have essential documents, snacks, water bottles, money, etc with you during trekking. Be smart with the things you pack for the trek. 
  • Charging & Internet: Charging your devices and accessing the internet during the Khopra Danda trek in Nepal can be challenging due to the remote location. Some teahouses may offer charging services for a small fee, typically using solar power. Bring a portable power bank to keep your essential devices, such as a phone and camera, charged throughout the trek. Likewise, some lodges may offer Wi-Fi for a fee, but the reliability and speed can vary greatly. Expect limited connectivity. Purchase a local SIM card with data in Kathmandu or Pokhara if you need to stay connected. Coverage is better than WiFi but still not very reliable.
  • Personal Expenses: Budget for any personal expenses you might have along the way, such as drinks, snacks, toiletries, and souvenirs. Also, include the cost of comprehensive travel insurance, international flights, trekking gear, tips, etc.
Equipments

HEAD

  • Sun hat or scarf
  • Winter hat, insulating hat or wide-brimmed hat
  • Headlight with extra battery

FACE

  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Face and body wipes

HANDS

  • Lightweight gloves
  • Lightweight winter gloves

BODY

  • Hiking shirt
  • Long-sleeved shirt
  • Hooded rain jacket
  • Fleece jacket
  • Lightweight cotton trousers
  • T-shirt (bring lightweight wool)
  • Polypropylene underwear
  • Down jacket (available for rent in Kathmandu)
  • Sweater
  • Waterproof jacket and trousers

FOOTWEAR

  • Hiking boots
  • Thick wool socks (take an extra pair of thick wool socks)

ESSENTIAL GEAR

  • Backpack or day back (size depends on whether you take a porter or not)
  • Thermal bottle
  • Water purification (water tablets or  ultraviolet light)
  • Trekking poles
  • Sleeping bag (-20 degrees sleeping bag is best in high altitude trekking)

TOILETRIES

  • Medium-size drying towel
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Biodegradable bar soap
  • Nail clippers

PERSONAL ACCESSORIES

  • Money
  • Watch
  • Cell phone
  • Camera

EXTRA ITEMS

  • First aid kit
  • Extra passport photos and photocopies of passport
  • Notebook and pen
  • Binoculars

 

Khopra Danda Trek 12 Days FAQs

  • Khopra Danda, also known as Khopra Ridge, is located in the Annapurna region, Nepal. It is inside the Annapurna Conservation Area. 

  • To reach Khopra Ridge, you typically start your trek from Nayapul or Ghandruk, which are accessible by road from Pokhara, a major city in Nepal. The trek involves several days of hiking through beautiful forests, villages, and landscapes.

  • The Khopra Danda trek is a moderate trekking route in Nepal. As the trail does not see many trekkers, the tourist infrastructure is relatively low compared to the famous trails in Nepal. Likewise, you will also come across isolated areas. 

     

  • Khopra Danda is located at 3,660 meters (12,008 ft). However, during the Khopra Danda trek, you will touch 4,620 meters (15,157 ft) at Khayer Lake. It is the highest point of the trek.

  • From Pokhara to Ghandruk, it takes a short 1/2 hour ride and approximately 5-6 hours of hiking through forests and small villages. You can also drive to Kimche and hike for 2 hours to reach Ghandruk.

  • No, you cannot do the Khopra Danda trek without a guide. Trekking without a guide in the Annapurna region is no longer allowed for the safety reasons of the travelers. To have a close solo Khopra Danda trekking experience, you can do a private trek with us.

  • For the Khopra Danda trek, you will need to get the Annapurna Conservation Area Project permit and TIMS Card. Our Khopra Danda trek cost covers both permit costs.

  • During the Khopra Danda trek, you will gain around 400 meters to 500 meters daily. We keep the altitude gain under 500 meters to avoid altitude sickness.

  • Yes, the Khopra Danda trek is suitable for children as well as aged trekkers. The trekking route has just enough adventure for kids.

  • No, you do not need previous trekking experience for the Khopra Danda trekking. However, the experience of day hikes will help you a lot.

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