fbpx
MENU

Khopra Danda Trek | Lesser-Known Magnificent Trail

10 Days

Khopra Danda Trek, also known as Khopra Ridge Trek, is an increasingly popular yet lesser-known trekking destination nestled within Nepal’s magnificent Annapurna region. This remote and off-the-beaten-path trek offers a remarkable alternative route that serves as a bridge between the renowned Annapurna Base Camp and the Jomsom-Muktinath Trek trail. The inception of Khopra Ridge, attributed to the trailblazing efforts of Mahabir Poon, has garnered well-deserved recognition for its stunning panoramic vistas that encompass iconic peaks, such as the awe-inspiring Mt. Dhaulagiri, the majestic Annapurna, the graceful Nilgiri, the imposing Tukuche Peak, and the serene Dhampus Peak.

Beyond the grandeur of these snow-capped giants, trekkers embarking on the Khopra Danda journey are treated to mesmerizing views of the Kali Gandaki River valley, a deep and dramatic gorge that adds to the trek’s allure. The experience is nothing short of breathtaking as you stand amidst the Himalayan grandeur, absorbing the serene beauty of nature.

While the mountain vistas are undoubtedly a highlight, the Khopra Danda trek also boasts a treasure trove of cultural and natural gems. The Khayer Barahi Temple perched in a pristine mountain setting, and Khayer Lake, a shimmering high-altitude jewel framed by snow-clad peaks, offer spiritual and scenic diversions that make this trek truly special.

As you traverse the Khopra Danda route, you’ll pass through the charming Narchyang village, where the warmth of local hospitality and the authenticity of traditional life will leave a lasting impression. The soothing hot springs of Tatopani provide a welcome respite for weary trekkers, offering relaxation and rejuvenation amidst nature’s splendor.

Ghandruk village, a picturesque settlement with stone-paved pathways and quaint houses, is yet another captivating stop on this journey. Here, you can immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Gurung community, savor delicious local cuisine, and perhaps even join in the celebrations of traditional festivals.

The Khopra Danda trek typically unfolds over a span of 9 to 12 days, with the duration tailored to your choice of route and starting point. Commencing from Nayapul, the trek leads you through a tapestry of landscapes, from terraced fields to dense forests adorned with enchanting rhododendron blooms. Each day offers new discoveries and vistas that will leave you in awe, making this trek a memorable and rewarding adventure in the heart of the Annapurna region.

Khopra Danda trek is a less crowded trek in the Annapurna region, If you have enough time you can continue trek to Annapurna base camp, Mardi Himal trek, and Annapurna circuit trek during your trekking to Khopra Danda. To personalize your trekking itinerary as per your requirements leave text on WhatsApp or write mail. Our team is here 24×7.

Best Season For Khopra Danda Trek

The best season for Khopra Danda Trek is during the autumn(post-monsoon) and spring(pre-monsoon) seasons. These seasons provide the most suitable weather and trail conditions, making your trekking experience more enjoyable.

Autumn is widely regarded as the best time for trekking in the Annapurna region due to stable weather conditions, clear skies, and comfortable temperatures during the day, allowing trekkers to enjoy the panoramic view of the mountains and clear visibility. Spring is another excellent season for the Khopra Danda Trek as the weather begins to warm up and the rhododendron forests come alive if vibrant bloom, creating a colourful and picturesque backdrop for your trek.

Seasons To Avoid For The Trek

The Khopra Danda Trek is a beautiful journey in Nepal, but there are certain seasons to avoid due to unfavorable weather and trail conditions.

Monsoon season is considered the least favorable time for trekking in the Khopra Danda region as it brings heavy rainfall, making the trails muddy, slippery, and prone to landslides. While trekking is possible during winter months, it can be quite challenging due to cold weather and snowfall. Higher elevations along the trekking route may be covered in snow, making the trails difficult to navigate.

Permits Required For The Trek

To undertake the Khopra Danda trek in Nepal, you will need two permits to ensure that your trek is legal and safe.

TIMS(Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card: The TIMS Card is required for all trekkers in Nepal, including those trekking in the Annapurna region. It helps the authorities track and ensure the safety of trekkers.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): The ACAP is a very important permit for the Khopra Danda Trek, as permits the entry of trekkers into the Annapurna Conservation Area.

Complete altitude map of Khopra danda Trek.

Outline itinerary

DAY 1: Arrival At Kathmandu Airport

DAY 2: Kathmandu-Pokhara

DAY 3: Pokhara-Nayapul-Syauli Bazaar-Kimche-Ghandruk

DAY 4: Ghandruk-Bayeli Kharka

DAY 5: Bayeli Kharka-Khopra Danda

DAY 6: Khopra Danda-Swanta

DAY 7: Swanta-Ghorepani

DAY 8: Poon Hill-Birethanti-Pokhara

DAY 9: Pokhara-Kathmandu

DAY 10: Departure

Trip Info

  • 3660m/11,811ft
  • March-June/September-December
  • Kathmandu
  • Kathmandu
  • 55 km/31.5 miles
  • Hotel in Pokhara and Hotel/Lodge/Tea house during the trek
  • Private Vehicle | Tourist
  • All meals during the trek
  • Kathmandu-Pokhara-Nayapul-Shyauli Bazaar-Kimche-Ghandruk-Bayeli Kharka-Khopra Danda-Swanta-Ghorepani-Poon Hill-Birethanti-Pokhara-Kathmandu

Overview

The Khopra Danda Trek, a newly established route in Nepal’s Annapurna region, offers an exhilarating adventure through uncharted trails. Along this route, hikers are treated to a magnificent array of landscapes, from terraced farms and enchanting traditional villages to meandering rivers, dense forests, and awe-inspiring mountain vistas. The prominent peaks adorning the horizon include Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, II, III, and South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, Lamjung Himal, and Nilgiri.

During your trek, you’ll traverse enchanting rhododendron forests and might even encounter Himalayan wildlife like pheasants and yaks. For those seeking a spiritual experience, a visit to the sacred Khayar Lake is an option. Additionally, this trek includes a stop at Poon Hill (3,210m / 10,531ft), a renowned viewpoint that treats you to captivating vistas of the Annapurna massif, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre.

Your adventure kicks off with a picturesque drive from Kathmandu, passing through Pokhara, Nayapul, and Syauli Bazaar before reaching Kimche. From Kimche, your trek commences with a visit to the Gurung village of Ghandruk. After a night’s rest in Ghandruk, the journey proceeds to Bayli Kharka via Tadapani. The trail you’ll tread upon is less frequented, offering a sense of isolation and an opportunity to truly connect with the environment. Bayli Kharka boasts a handful of lodges, ensuring a comfortable trekking experience.

On the third day of the trek, you’ll ascend to Khopra Danda from Bayli Kharka. Along the way, you’ll pass through the pastures of Chistibang and picturesque timberline forests. This leg of the journey rewards you with sweeping vistas of Dhaulagiri, Dhamphus Peak, Tukuche Peak, Nilgiri, Annapurna I, and Annapurna South.

At Khopra Danda, you’ll have the option to embark on a side trek to Khayar Lake. The trail is steep, and the round trip takes roughly five hours before returning to Khopra Danda. From there, your journey continues to Swanta village, famed for its community-run cheese factory.

The following day’s trek from Swanta leads you to Ghorepani, passing through Chittre village, where you’ll merge with the classic Annapurna Circuit Trek trail.

On the last day of this extraordinary trek, you’ll rise early in Ghorepani and ascend to Poon Hill, a globally renowned viewpoint. Poon Hill provides a mesmerizing spectacle as the morning sun bathes the surrounding mountains in a golden glow. It’s a photographer’s paradise, affording you ample time to capture the breathtaking beauty.

After savoring the splendid views from Poon Hill, you’ll return to Ghorepani and then trek to Birethanti. From Birethanti, a bus ride will take you to Pokhara via Nayapul, marking the end of your trekking adventure in this enchanting city.

Highlights

  • Breathtaking panoramic views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, II and III, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, Tukuche Peak and Dhampus Peak.
  • Experience your trek on off-the-beaten-path.
  • Immerse yourself in the cultures and traditions of the local people.
  • Optional side trek to Khayer Lake.
  • Witness the sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges from the Poon Hill.
  • Khopra Danda Ridge

Itinerary

Day 1:
Arrival At Kathmandu Airport

On the first day of your trip, you will arrive at the Kathmandu Airport where you will be greeted by a representative of Himalayan 360 who will assist you in transferring to the hotel. Upon reaching your hotel, check in and relax. In the evening, you can go out for a stroll in the local streets if you are not too tired after the journey.
Overnight stay in Kathmandu

Day 2:
Kathmandu-Pokhara

Today you will embark on a scenic drive from Kathmandu-Pokhara, a beautiful city located in the Western part of Nepal and is known for its stunning beauty, including the famous Phewa lake and the Annapurna mountain range. Start your day with a heart breakfast at hotel, then you will take the most scenic journey, which will take approximately 6-8 hours drive. Once you arrive in Pokhara, check into your hotel and freshen up. In the evening, you can go out for a leisure stroll along the lakeside.
Overnight stay in Pokhara

Day 3:
Pokhara-Nayapul-Shyauli Bazaar-Kimche-Ghandruk(1940m/6364ft)

Today, you’ll embark on a memorable trek from Pokhara to the enchanting village of Ghandruk. After breakfast at your Pokhara hotel, you’ll set out for Nayapul, the starting point of your trek, via a scenic drive. As you begin your hike, the trail meanders through terraced fields, charming villages, and lush forests along the Modi Khola river, offering stunning views of the Himalayan landscape. You’ll pass through Shyuali Bazaar, where you can take a break, before continuing to Kimche for lunch at a local teahouse. The journey then proceeds, with breathtaking vistas of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre mountains, ultimately leading you to Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung village. Explore the village’s rich culture and architecture, enjoy Nepali cuisine for dinner, and, if available, partake in a cultural performance. Spend the night in cozy accommodations while surrounded by the serene beauty of the Annapurna region.
Overnight stay in Ghandruk
Duration: 2.5hr drive 2hr trek
Trek Distance: 8km/4.9miles
Highest altitude: 1940m/6364ft

Day 4:
Ghandruk(1940m/6364ft)-Bayeli Kharka(3450m/11,318ft)

On the fourth day of your Annapurna adventure, you’ll leave behind the picturesque village of Ghandruk and venture towards the peaceful retreat of Bayeli Kharka. Begin your day with a hearty breakfast in Ghandruk, saying your farewells before setting out. The trail leads you through captivating rhododendron forests, intermittently revealing awe-inspiring panoramas of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre peaks. Take breaks at charming tea houses for tea and snacks, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the surroundings. In the afternoon, you’ll reach Bayeli Kharka, a serene meadow nestled among rhododendron and bamboo groves. Here, relish a leisurely lunch and take time to explore or simply unwind in this lush haven. As night descends, swap trekking stories with fellow adventurers while enjoying a warm dinner in the teahouse. Then, retire to your cozy accommodations, fully embracing the tranquility of Bayeli Kharka and anticipating the upcoming adventures.
Overnight stay in Bayeli Kharka
Trek Duration: 6-7 hrs.
Trek Distance: 15km/8.5miles
Highest altitude: 3450m/11,318ft

Day 5:
Bayeli Kharka(3450m/11,318ft)-Khopra Danda(3660m/11,811ft)

On the fifth day of your journey, bid farewell to the tranquil meadows of Bayeli Kharka as you venture towards the majestic Khopra Danda. Your day begins with a hearty breakfast in the serene surroundings of Bayeli Kharka. As you continue your trek, the path meanders through enchanting rhododendron and bamboo forests, immersing you in the invigorating mountain ambiance. During your journey, take a refreshing break in the charming village of Tadapani, celebrated for its breathtaking views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre peaks, where you’ll relish a nourishing lunch. In the afternoon, your trail ascends towards Khopra Danda, a place of awe-inspiring panoramas featuring the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Allow time to explore this remarkable ridge, settle into your accommodations, and savor a warm dinner while the sun gracefully sets over the Himalayan peaks. The natural beauty and serenity of Khopra Danda promise a truly unforgettable evening.
Overnight stay in Khopra Danda
Trek Duration: 5hrs
Trek Distance: 8km/4.9miles
Highest altitude: 3660m/11,811ft

Day 6:
Khopra Danda(3660m/11,811ft)-Swanta(2214m/7874ft)

Departing from the awe-inspiring vistas of Khopra Danda, your trek guides you toward the charming village of Swanta, deepening your immersion in the natural beauty and local culture of the Annapurna region. Begin the day with a hearty breakfast at Khopra Danda, savoring the last moments of the mesmerizing mountain views. As your journey unfolds, the trail gracefully descends, offering unique perspectives of the surrounding landscapes, winding through enchanting rhododendron and oak forests where you may catch glimpses of local wildlife. Take a break in Chistibung, relishing the serene mountain ambiance. In the afternoon, continue your route to Swanta, choosing a picturesque spot for a lunch stop with panoramic views of the Annapurna mountain range. Upon reaching Swanta, dedicate time to explore the village, engage with the friendly villagers, and gain insights into their rich culture and way of life. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at your teahouse or lodge, sharing trekking stories with fellow adventurers amidst the warm embrace of Nepali hospitality. The night in Swanta promises a unique cultural experience, offering peaceful rest as you progress on your trek.
Overnight stay in Swanta
Trek Duration: 4-5hrs
Trek Distance: 9.6km/5.9miles
Highest altitude: 3660m/11,811ft

Day 7:
Swanta(2214m/7874ft)-Ghorepani(2880m/9350ft)

Commencing from the picturesque village of Swanta, today’s trek leads you to the renowned village of Ghorepani, a well-known stop along the Annapurna Circuit. Begin your day with a delightful breakfast in Swanta, savoring the rustic charm of the village. As your trek unfolds, the trail meanders through lush forests adorned with rhododendron and oak trees, providing both shade and tranquility. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the unique Magar culture and admire their distinctive architecture as you pass through Magar villages. Pause at a teahouse en route for a nourishing lunch, surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery that invigorates your spirit. Continue your journey through a rhododendron forest, which, depending on the season, can burst into vibrant bloom, creating a magical atmosphere. By afternoon, you’ll arrive in Ghorepani, perched on a ridge and renowned for its sweeping sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges from the famous Poon Hill viewpoint. As evening descends, relish a hearty dinner at your teahouse or lodge, immersing yourself in Ghorepani’s lively atmosphere and mingling with fellow trekkers from around the world. Optionally, you can embark on a short hike to Poon Hill for a mesmerizing sunset over the Himalayas before retiring for the night in your cozy accommodations, eagerly anticipating the sunrise spectacle tomorrow morning.
Overnight stay in Ghorepani
Trek Duration: 5hrs
Trek Distance: 8km/4.9miles
Highest altitude: 2880m/9350ft

Day 8:
Poon Hill(3210m/10,525ft)-Birethanti(1,039m/3250ft)-Pokhara

This day marks the end of your trekking adventure. Begin your morning with a pre-dawn ascent to Poon Hill, where a breathtaking sunrise transforms the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges with golden and pink hues. Afterward, return to Ghorepani for a hearty breakfast. As you descend, the trail guides you to Tadapani, offering opportunities to rest and rejuvenate amidst the lush surroundings. Lunchtime arrives in the quaint village of Banthanti, where you can relish a satisfying meal. Your journey continues, leading you through rhododendron and oak forests until you reach the village of Birethanti, nestled at the confluence of the Modi Khola and Burungdi Khola rivers. Here, transportation awaits to transport you back to Pokhara, providing a fresh perspective of the landscape and completing the trekking loop. Upon your return to Pokhara, check into your hotel, unwind, and celebrate the successful completion of your trek with a delightful dinner at one of Pokhara’s diverse restaurants. As night descends, take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey you’ve undertaken in the Annapurna region, treasuring the memories of your adventure.
Overnight stay in Pokhara
Trek Duration: 4-5hrs
Trek Distance: 12.5km/7.7miles
Highest altitude: 3210m/10,525ft

Day 9:
Pokhara-Kathmandu

Today signifies your transition from the tranquil landscapes of Pokhara back to the bustling capital of Kathmandu. Commence your day with a delightful lakeside breakfast in Pokhara before bidding farewell to your hotel. If time allows, explore Pokhara’s charming streets or indulge in some last-minute shopping. Travelling by the road, relish a local lunch at one of the eateries along the way, savoring traditional Nepali cuisine. Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, settle into your hotel, refresh yourself, and venture out for a farewell dinner at one of the city’s diverse restaurants, perhaps sampling the local Newari cuisine. As you spend your final night in Kathmandu, take a moment to reflect on the incredible experiences and cherished memories woven throughout your Himalayan adventure. Your journey from Pokhara to Kathmandu promises a fitting conclusion to your enriching Nepal expedition.

Day 10:
Departure

Today marks the conclusion of your unforgettable journey through Nepal as you prepare for departure. Begin your day with a final breakfast in Kathmandu, whether at your hotel or a local eatery, savoring the lingering flavors of Nepali cuisine. Returning to your hotel, take the time to complete any remaining packing and perform the check-out process, ensuring that all your belongings and travel documents are meticulously organized. Your transportation to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu will be thoughtfully arranged, aligning with your flight schedule. As you board your international flight destined for home or your next adventure, bid a fond farewell to Nepal’s captivating landscapes and the gracious hospitality that has embraced you throughout your journey. Carry with you the treasured memories and invaluable experiences acquired during your sojourn in Nepal, and rest assured, Nepal will eagerly await your return in the future. Wishing you safe travels and a heart full of Nepali warmth.

COST

Cost Includes

  • All Transportation as per itinerary
  • All Accommodation as per itinerary
  • All meals during the trek
  • Licensed and qualified guide
  • One porter for two trekkers
  • Guides and porters cost-their meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation and other necessary equipment costs.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit fee
  • Trekkers Information Management System
  • All government, local taxes and expenses

Cost Excludes

  • International flight airfare
  • Nepal entry visa fees
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel Insurance
  • Tips and gratuities for guides and porters
  • Emergency expenses caused by circumstances beyond company control, for example, landslides, bad weather conditions, illness, change of government policies.

FAQs

Expand all Collapse all
What is the Khopra Danda trek, and where is it located?

The Khopra Danda trek is a scenic trekking route located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges and takes you through picturesque villages and lush forests.

Do I need to bring cash with me on the trek?

It’s advisable to bring enough cash with you for the entire trek, as ATM facilities are limited on the trail. You’ll need cash for accommodations, meals, and any additional expenses.

Not satisfied with this Itinerary?
Reach out to travel experts.

Overall Trip Rating:

Write a Review

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Personal Information

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Khopra Danda Trek | Lesser-Known Magnificent Trail