Min. Group Size

Min 1 Max 12
Trekking Grade

Grade: Moderate
Best Season

Mar-May, Sep-Nov
Max. Altitude

Max. 4,500 m/14,765ft
Trip Duration

Duration: 13 Days
Transportation

Private A/C Vehicle, Bus
Accommodation

Hotel/ Teahouse/ Lodge
Meal

All meals are included
Trip Activity

Trekking in Nepal

Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake Trek Highlights

Memorable experience in Nepal’s wonder out backs
Captivating mountain views, traditional villages and landscapes
Khopra Ridge and Poonhill
Khopra Ridge Trek on a new trail, the off-the-beaten-path with fewer crowds and 360-degree Himalayan views
Panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna Massif, Hiunchuli, and other peaks from Khopra Ridge. Inspiring sunrise view from Khopra Ridge, Poon Hill, and Muldai Viewpoint
Visit Khayer Lake, a sacred high altitude lake close to Annapurna South
Savour a typical Nepalese hillside trekking experience. Hike through Gurung villages, paddy fields, and rhododendron forests

Khopra Ridge Trek or also known popularly as Khayer Lake Trek is one of the less explored in this area and is sandwiched between the Annapurna range and the astonishing Dhaulagiri Mountains.

Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek takes you into the unknown land of quiet forests of rhododendron, oaks and firs. As you move tread deeper, you will come into rolling valleys of budding colourful villages, giving you insights into coarse mountain life in this far-out region. Due to the remoteness of this territory, this trek is the perfect one for trekkers who want a challenge into the unknown and less used trails. And you, the discerning trekker will be one of the few to witness nature in its most unique display in this part of the Annapurna, where raw landscapes mingle with the scent of wild showy mountain flowers, that can be seen for miles in spring.

Hiking to Khopra Ridge is basically just you, the mountains, friendly people, and being close to nature. If you are fortunate, you may come across rare floral/fauna. This trek has all the spices for a memorable experience in Nepal’s wonder outbacks. The inner Himalayas in this region include villages, wildlife, captivating mountain views and a range of landscapes from forest to high alpine snowy areas.

The Khopra Ridge journey is headed away from the more cluttered trails of the Annapurna region and your accommodation will be in teahouse lodges built by the local folks. The mountain vistas from Khopra Ridge are the best ever including Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Fang and Nilgiri peaks. The view from Ghandruk is magnificent with Mt. Machhapuchhre (also known as Fishtail) and Mount Hiunchuli which is an added bonus to this trek.

Your trip to Annapurna Khopra Ridge commences with a domestic flight or drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and onboard, you will get bird’s views of the entire range of the grand Himalayan Mountains. The Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trek is definitely one trek that ardent trekkers will desire and watching beautiful sunsets signals the end of a day of one of your adventures fulfilled in your lives.

Khopra Ridge for you: Treks of this grade stretches up to two (2) weeks. Trails generally go above 4000 meters and on a daily basis, you can expect to be walking for about 4 to 6 hours. The perfect setting of an introduction to moderate & challenging trekking in Nepal. Activity level/physical rating is slightly harder than leisure and involves occasional difficult days. Expect ups and downs as well for there will be hills to climb as well and – a little bit up and a little bit down.

Customize Your Khopra Ridge Trek:

This is a general itinerary, which can always individually be “tailormade”. The Khopra Ridge trek package can be redesigned or redeveloped as per your taste, For more information please contact us.

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu 1,350m/4,429ft.

We recommend that you schedule your arrival in Kathmandu in the morning or afternoon. This will give you enough time to relax and recover from jet lag before starting your adventure. Upon arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, our representative will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel where you will be served welcome drinks. After you have freshened up, your trek guide will brief you about your trip in the lobby of your hotel in the evening.

Get famwith your surroundings by taking a walk down the street. Visit to Thamel, the main tourist hub.

Accommodation: Hotel Moonlight

Day 02 :

Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara 827m/2,713ft. 6-7hrs

After breakfast early morning, you will take a tourist bus to Pokhara. If you are lucky and get the right side of the bus, you can take pleasure in amazing views of green mountains and villages. Upon reaching the enchanting city of Pokhara which offers magnificent views of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhare, peaks of Annapurna and others, you'll check in to the hotel. Pokhara has numerous lakes, known as ‘Tal’ in Nepali which offer fishing, boating and swimming. Strolling around the Lakeside city and exploring it in the evening is enjoyable. Overnight in a hotel in Pokhara.

Accommodation: Hotel Mount View Pokhara
Meals: Breakfast

Day 03 :

Pokhara to Naya Pool (Drive) Trek to Ghandruk 1940m/6364ft. 5-6hrs

After breakfast today, you leave Pokhara to drive to Nayapul, which takes around an hour. From Naya Pool, you will start trek, passing through lovely villages such as Birethanti. These villages are inhabited by Gurungs and Magars, who are local to this area. It takes around 5 hours of hiking to reach your first overnight stop at Ghandruk. There is time to explore the Gurung Museum at Ghandruk to get a glimpse into the everyday lives of the Gurung people. Their working tools, household items, and details of their past and present lives are on display. Dinner is taken in the teahouse, giving you a chance to get to know your trekking companions and guide.

Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 04 :

Trek from Ghandruk to Tadapani 2,700m/8,859ft. 4-5hrs

In Ghandruk, you get to enjoy astonishing views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli Mountains. From here you will continue upwards through Deurali and into the dense rhododendron forests. The Rhododendron is Nepal’s national flower and when they bloom, the forests turn into gardens of dazzling red flowers when seen from the air or from afar. After trekking over a small pass you will reach Tadapani where you get to enjoy excellent views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna and Hiunchuli mountains. There are many Tibetans in the village who sell things for the tourists to take back home as a souvenirs. Stay overnight at Tadapani.

Accommodation: Hotel/Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 05 :

Trek from Tadapani to Dobato 3,350m/10,991ft. 4-5hrs

After Tadapani you leave the main trail and for the next five days you will walk in a more remote area of the Annapurna region. On your trek today you get to appreciate the diverse flora and fauna of the region and of course the magnificent view of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South. Trekking in a relatively easy trail you will reach Dobato which is dominated by the excellent view of the Annapurna South. Overnight in Dobato.

Accommodation: Hotel/Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 06 :

Trek from Dobato to Upper Chistibung 2,975m/9,761ft. 4-5hrs

After breakfast, you will descend through open ground and beautiful forest to reach the pastures of Lower Chistibung. Next, you ascend gradually through a forest before reaching Upper Chistibung which is a temporary herder’s settlement. If you’re lucky, you might even spot the colorful Lophophorus (Danphe), the national bird of Nepal, as well as Himalayan thar on the grassy ridge high above the trail. Overnight in Upper Chistibung.

Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 07 :

Trek, Upper Chistibung to Khopra Ridge 3,660m/12,008ft. 4-5hrs

Today you'll embark on a steady climb above the tree line through alpine meadows and pastures to reach Khopra. As you will approach Khopra Ridge, you'll see the tip of Annapurna South. Upon reaching Khopra you will go for a short walk down Khopra Ridge to a viewpoint overlooking Kali Gandaki river far below in this deep valley. From Khopra you will also admire the stunning mountain panorama including Mt. Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and Annapurna South. Overnight in Khopra.

Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 08 :

Khopra Ridge: Visit to Khayer Lake 4,500m/14,765ft. 9-10hrs

Today you'll begin trekking from around six in the morning towards the Khayer Lake from where you attain excellent views of the Fang and surrounding mountains. Considered to be a sacred lake by the Hindus, it is believed that bathing in the lake will help attain Nirvana. As Hinduism and Buddhism are intricately related in Nepal, you can even see a number of Hindu and Buddhist shrines on the lakeside. For those of you who do not want to walk all the way to the lake, a half day walk from Khopra can also be arranged. You have packed lunch today. Overnight in Khopra Ridge.

Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 09 :

Trek from Khopra Ridge to Swanta Village 2,200m/7,218ft. 5-6hrs

After breakfast, from Khopra Ridge you will descend off the hillside and continue downhill on a steep trail. Along the way you will get more views of Mount Dhaulagiri with the mountain providing a lovely backdrop to the terraced fields and traditional houses in the nearby villages. Overnight in Swanta village.

Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 10 :

Trek from Swanta Village to Ghorepani 2,858m/9,376ft. 4-5hrs

From Swanta you will descend through the village fields to a small river and take a quick look at the local water mill. From here you will cross the suspension bridge and head upwards to the village of Chittre, where you’ll join the main trekking trail at Ghorepani. Ghorepani means “Horse Water” in Nepali. This was actually the watering hole for caravans journeying through the ancient Tibet trade route. Overnight at Ghorepani.

Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Meals: breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 11 :

Hike up to Poonhill and descend to Hile then drive to Pokhara 827m/2,713ft

Wake up early and hike up to Poon Hill to catch one of the most magical Himalayan sunrises. Poon Hill is one of the most popular Himalayan viewpoints in Nepal. From here you get a 360-degree view of the Himalayan giants- Dhaulagiri, Annapurna Massif, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna. Catch the dramatic view of the golden sun rising over the snow-covered Himalayan peaks lighting them up in pink, red and golden colors. It is a magical sight, one you will cherish forever. Later hike down to Ghorepani, have breakfast, and proceed towards Hile. It is a steep downhill walk filled with inspiring nature views. Once you reach Hile, board a vehicle and take a scenic drive to Pokhara. You will be driven to your hotel, which lies close to Phewa Lake. Once you have checked in, you can take a well-deserved rest or take a stroll down the Lakeside.

Accommodation: Hotel Mount View Pokhara
Meals: breakfast and Lunch

Day 12 :

Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu 1,350m/4,429ft. 6-7hrs

Early morning, you will take a tourist bus to get back to Kathmandu. Watching scenic countryside en route makes your long bus journey interesting. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, your guide will transfer you to your hotel. Rest of the day can be spent at leisure or perhaps catching up with some last minute shopping or exploring any sights you missed during your first day in Kathmandu. Overnight at Kathmandu.

Accommodation: Hotel Moonlight
Meals: Breakfast

Day 13 :

Final departure from Kathmandu, Nepal

Thank you for joining us on this trek and it has been a pleasure getting to know you during this time. We hope this venture has enriched your experience with happy memories. You will be assisted in your last minute preparation. Our representative will take you to Tribhuvan International Airport three hours before your scheduled flight. Bon voyage for a safe and pleasant trip home. Safe Journey!! We hope to see you again.

Meals: Breakfast

13-Days Trip Cost Details

The trip cost always depends on group size, hotel accommodation category and client’s desire budget
The included itinerary is a guideline and standard pattern which AlpineTrav you. This trip itinerary can be modified according to your time and requirements
The itinerary shall be changed after an understanding between both AlpineTrav and the client. Additional activities could be either added or reduced as per client’s request before the trip confirmation
Price shall be adjusted in our mutual understanding, if the client intends to add some services we shall charge him/ her for those additional services and if he/she intends to lessen some services, we shall wave the charges accordingly
The Khopra Ridge Trek itinerary has been published in 3-star hotel and tea house/lodge services for better understanding of the customers.

Please contact us on WhatsApp: +9779860751012 for any information about in your selected package.

Useful Info

Please take care to note: Every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary; however, since this adventure entails traveling in remote mountainous regions, we cannot guarantee that we will not deviate from it. Weather, the health condition of a group member, unexpected natural disasters, etc., can all contribute to changes in the itinerary. The trek guide will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if required.

Accommodations at Annapurna Khopra Ridge during a trek

We will provided you, comfortable Stays in Cities and on the Trail Your comfort is our priority, whether in the bustling city or the serene mountains: In Kathmandu: Stay at Hotel Moonlight or a similar hotel, offering modern amenities for a relaxing experience and Pokhara stay at Hotel Mount View Pokhara Room Arrangement: are on a twin-sharing basis, and during trek stay in teahouse/lodge, known for their warmth and hospitality.

Meals at Annapurna Region Khopra Ridge during the trek

During the trek, meals are typically served in teahouses, offering a variety of Nepali and international dishes. Which you can enjoy authentic Nepalese food as well the more common international cuisine (Tibetan, Continental, Italian, Indian, etc.).

Breakfast and Dinner (On OPEN/CHOICE Menu) Served at the teahouse where you will spend the night.
Lunch: Provided en route to the next destination, offering flexibility to enjoy the day’s journey.
Special Touch: Breakfasts are provided your stay in Kathmandu, Pokhara and you will also enjoy a specially prepared farewell dinner to celebrate the end of the trek.

Typical day on during the trek

Daily wake up calls will be between 6.00 am to 7.00 am while on the trek. The wake-up time and breakfast time will be decided a night before during the briefing time. The time table for each day will entirely depend on your walking duration for that particular day.

After breakfast, you set off on the day’s walk. Before breakfast, you are required to pack your duffel bag as it will be loaded by the porter while you are having your breakfast. Then you few hrs walkimg and you will stop for lunch mid-day. The afternoon’s walk is generally shorter and you’ll usually arrive at your destination in time for afternoon tea.

When is the best time to travel to the Khopra Ridge?

The best time for the Annapurna region Khopra Ridge Trek is during the Autumn (September to November) and Spring (March to May) seasons. During Autumn, the Monsoon rains have cleared, leaving behind lush greenery and unobstructed views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The crisp air and vibrant landscapes make this period ideal for photography and immersive trekking. As for Spring, it adds blooming rhododendron forests, which bring bursts of red, pink, and white hues to the trails. The pleasant daytime temperatures and longer daylight hours are perfect for trekking at a relaxed pace.

Khopra Ridge while the trek is doable year-round, Winter (December to February) can bring cold temperatures, particularly in the mornings and evenings, but it remains manageable at Inner Circuit’s lower altitudes. Monsoon (June to August) is the least favorable time due to heavy rains, leech-infested trails, and limited mountain visibility.

How difficult is the Annapurna Khopra Ridge trek?

Duration for treks of this grade stretches up to two (2) weeks. Trails generally go above 4000 meters and on a daily basis, you can expect to be walking for about 5 – 7 hours. The perfect setting of introduction to moderate & challenging trekking in Nepal. Activity level/physical rating is slightly harder than leisure and involves occasional difficult days. Expect ups and downs as well for there will be hills to climb as well.

Do I need previous experience to do Khopra Ridge Trek?

No previous experience of trekking is required but you should be moderately fit and must enjoy walking and adaptable to high altitude conditions. Having a previous experience is definitely beneficial but it is not a must to participate for this trip. All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip.

We advise you to prepare yourself for the trip at least 2 months prior to your trip date by doing regular exercises, going on hiking, running or gym. The fitter you are, the more enjoyable you will find the experience of trekking. All our trip itinerary has been devised keeping every aspect in mind and allows ample time for acclimatization.

Who is my guide for the Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek?

With our deep passion for alpine adventure and outdoor activities, and our small business, we have gained a lot of experience on some of the most remote trekking routes. That is why we, along with our diverse and qualified team of guides, will lead your trip with a qualified guide, consisting of 1 porter for every 2 participants and 1 assistant guide for every 4 participants.

What is the Cost of the Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek?

The cost of the Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek is USD 1170 per person. However, the cost depends on various factors including group size of 10+, and preferred level of luxury, trek duration, whether to hire a guide and porter, and personal miscellaneous expenses.

FAQs About Khopta Ridge Trek

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1. Are Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek the same?

The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek and the Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek are different routes in Nepal’s Annapurna region. The ABC trek is a shorter, moderate hike that leads directly to the Annapurna Base Camp for close-up views of the massif. In contrast, the Annapurna Khopra Ridge trek, part of the Annapurna Base Camp, is litle longer, offers more diverse landscapes and cultural experiences.

2. How long does the Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek take on average?

The duration of the Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek can vary, but it typically takes 11 to 13 days. This timeframe often includes travel to and from Kathmandu and the trekking days themselves. The variation depends on the specific itinerary, the trekking pace, and whether or not acclimatization days are included.

3. Can trekkers fly to Kathmandu from Pokhara while returning from the Annapurna Khopra Ridge trek in Nepal?

Yes, trekkers returning from the Annapurna Khopra Ridge trek in Nepal can board the flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu. This is a common and convenient option, especially for those looking to save time and avoid the long, often bumpy road journey. Flights operate regularly, weather permitting, and offer stunning aerial views of the Himalayan landscape.

4. Is it necessary to hire a guide and porter for the Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek?

While it’s possible to trek independently, hiring a guide and porter is highly recommended. Guides provide valuable local knowledge and ensure your safety, while porters help carry your luggage, making the trek more enjoyable. They can carry up to 20 kg of a heavy bag through the alpine ascents, which is extremely helpful.

5. What permits are required for the Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek?

To trek in the Annapurna region, including the Khopra Ridge area, you’ll need two essential permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. The trekkers have to issue these permits as they are important for conserving the region and regulating trekking activities.

6. Is altitude sickness a concern on the Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek?

Yes, altitude sickness can be a concern, as parts of the trek reach high altitudes. Proper acclimatization involves ascending gradually, staying hydrated, and listening to your body. If symptoms of altitude sickness occur, it’s essential to descend to a lower altitude.

7. What wildlife can I expect to see on the Annapurna Khopra Ridge trek?

The Annapurna Khopra Ridge trek, situated within the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACA), offers opportunities to observe a diverse range of wildlife. Trekkers may encounter Himalayan Tahr, often seen grazing on rocky slopes and, if fortunate, the elusive Musk Deer. In the higher altitudes, there’s a rare chance of spotting a Snow Leopard.

8. How can I manage drinking water during the Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek?

You can buy bottled water or boiled water at tea houses, but using water purification tablets or a portable water filter is better for the environment. Many tea houses will also refill your water bottle with boiled water for a small fee.

9. Is Annapurna Khopra Ridge trek easier than Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?

Yes, The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is generally easier than the Annapurna Khopra Ridge trek due to its lower maximum altitude, shorter duration, less challenging terrain, and well-established infrastructure, making it more accessible and reducing the risk of altitude sickness compared to the longer and more rugged Khopra Ridge trek.

10. Is the Annapurna Khopra Ridge trek safe during the monsoon season?

Trekking the Annapurna Khopra Ridge route during the monsoon season (June to August) involves significant challenges due to heavy rainfall, which increases the risks of landslides and slippery trails. Although some areas receive less rain, the lower sections can be hazardous. Trekking is possible but requires careful preparation, appropriate rain gear, and flexibility in your itinerary.