Khopra Danda Trek is the new, less explored, off-the-beaten-trekking route in Annapurna region of Nepal. This trek also has alternative names like Kopra Ridge and Khayer Lake trekking etc.
This is the perfect scenic trek to avoid the crowded part of the Annapurna region. On this trek, you will have the peaceful memories on the less explored trails. Within a short duration, this trek lets you enjoy the beautiful untouched nature. And the chance to observe real Nepali lifestyles (their culture, art of living and religion).
This trek is suitable for all trekkers from beginners to experienced. Most parts of the trails are strenuous while some parts are easy. The path goes through a deeply lush pine, oak, rhododendron, and bamboo forest.
You will get to witness gorgeous vistas of snowy Himalayas. And cross beautiful Magar, Gurung, Kami, Brahmin villages with its beautiful terraced farming lands.
Moreover, in this trek, you will take an adventurous hike up to Khayer Lake at 4600m. This is the highest point with most spectacular and picturesque views of mountain peaks and landscapes.
The best time to take this trek is March, April, May and September, October, November. However, you can still trek during other months which offers more peace and solitude with nature.
Overall, Khopra Danda trek is one of the great and short treks that Nepal has to offer. For further details, please feel free to contact us.
Khopra Danda Trek Highlights
- Panoramic and close-up view of Annapurna Massifs
- Witness unobstructed sunrise and sunset views from Poon Hill viewpoint.
- Enjoy the newly opened, less crowded trekking within unspoiled nature.
- Experience the lifestyle and culture of Magar and Gurung people.
- Walk through dense jungle, Rhododendron flowers, waterfalls etc.
- A side trip to Khayar Lake.
- A unique experience of natural hot spring at the bank of Kaligandaki River.
Elevation: 1400m, Kathmandu
Arrive in Kathmandu and you will meet one of our representatives who will escort you to your respective hotel.
And after settling into the hotel, you will get a briefing about the trip with your tour leader. He will discuss the trek details and coordinate you for the last minute arrangements.
Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu.
Elevation: 1488m, Tikhedhunga
Trekking hours: 2-3 hrs
Today after breakfast, you will take an early morning flight to Pokhara which will take about 35 minutes.
Upon reaching Pokhara you will take an hours drive to Nayapul which cover 42 km in car/jeep through the prosperous village of Lumley.
As you reach Nayapul, your trek begins to Birethanti situated on the confluence of the Modi and Burundi Khola. You will then follow the main street going through bamboo forests and large waterfalls.
In Birethanti you will verify your permits and walk towards Tikhedhunga through the bank of the river. You will continue your journey to Tikhedhunga passing through several small villages and settlements.
Later you will ascend gently to the final destination of the day. Overnight at a tea house in Tikhedhunga.
Elevation: 2875m, Ghorepani
Trekking duration: 4-5 hrs
Many people consider today’s trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani to be the most challenging part of the trek.
After a pleasant breakfast, you will start the trek and very shortly you will see a vast suspension bridge. And a sign that states the time to reach Ghorepani.
Along the trail, you will see many horses and the picturesque scenery of the mountains and settlements. The intimidating part of the trek is that you have to climb more than 3500 stairs.
You will cross the village of Ulleri and you will gradually leave the corn fields. On way, you will see good views of Machhapuchhre( 6996m) and Hiunchuli (6441m).
The trail is quite easy passing through Rhododendron and shadowy trees ascending gently up to the final checkpost at Ghorepani village.
Overnight at Ghorepani.
Elevation: 3000m, Chistibung
Trekking duration: 5-6 hrs
Today you will carry out the trek by following a verdant slope and traverse all through the meadow land with a number of herder’s hut and dzo grazing.
You will then move towards the community lodge which will give you a new trekking experience.
Overnight in a lodge in Upper Chistibung.
Elevation: 3640m, Khopra Danda
Trekking duration:3 hrs
Today after breakfast, you will head to reach the ridge at Khopra. You will embark on a steady climb that takes you above the treeline. The area is famous for wildlife, so you should keep your eyes open for Himalayan Thar and Danphe.
The best way to tackle the climb is by ascending slowly. Take your own time and rest often. You will then reach the lodge on Kopra ridge and will get more awe-inspiring views of the mountain vistas.
The amazing panorama includes Annapurna south towering directly above you at only 6 km away.
Across the depth of the Kali Gandaki valley, the Dhaulagiri range completely dominates the western skyline.
It takes about 3 hours to walk from Upper Chistibung to Khopra Danda. Overnight stay at a community lodge.
Elevation:4660m, Khayer Lake
Trekking duration: 6hrs
At the highest point of the trek, you can either enjoy a rest or hike up to Khayer lake at 4660m. This return trip takes almost a full day. And since it is a remote area, you will have to carry water and some food.
It will take about 5 hours to reach Khayer lake which is a rarely visited sacred freshwater lake. With its altitude of 4660m, it is even higher than Annapurna Base Camp.
You can spend some time exploring the Khayer Barahi temple area. And watch varieties of birds before you walk back to Khopra danda.
Elevation: 1250m, Tatopani
Trekking duration:4-5 hrs
From Khopra Danda it takes half a day to reach Tatopani. As you descend back down into the valley, you will pass through several typical villages and terraced farms.
At Tatopani, you will find a built-up hot spring open to the public. Here you can take a hot bath and relax your muscles from the tiring walk.
Overnight at a lodge in Tatopani.
Elevation: 815m, Pokhara
Travel hours: 4 hours
From Tatopani, you will drive to Pokhara which is 104 km in a private jeep. This journey will take you 4 hours.
Once you reach Pokhara, the remaining day you can explore and stroll nearby Phewa lake and enjoy the serenity of the place.
Elevation:1400, Kathmandu
Travel hours: 35 minutes flight/ 6-7 hrs drive
Today after enjoying your breakfast in Pokhara, you can either take a flight to Kathmandu or take a tourist bus.
Going by flight will take a shorter duration but will cost you more. And if you take a tourist bus, you will reach Kathmandu after about 6-7 hrs.
Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.
With this, you come to an end of 9 days Khopra danda trek.