Khopra Trek

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Recommended by 99% of travelers
At a Glance
Duration
5 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
4,700m
Group Size
2 - 4
Starts
Ulleri
Best Time
Sept - Nov and Mar - May
Overview

The Khopra Trek is a recently opened trekking trail in the Annapurna region. Also known as the Khopra Ridge Trek and the Khayer Lake Trek, Khopra Danda Trekking has become a wonderful alternative to the famous Poon Hill Trek. This trek offers a perfect five-day- to week-long adventure in the lower part of the Himalayas. The Khopra Danda Trekking Route goes through verdant forests and beautiful remote villages. It is an effortless trek with a few kick-offs on the beaten paths, which makes the journey adventurous. 

Khopra Trek Nepal presents wonderful views of the Himalayan Mountains like Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m), Mt. Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), Mt. Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Lamjung Himal (6,997 m), Mt. Nilgiri (7,061 m), and numerous others. The trail ascends and descends through rhododendron forests and rice fields. Gradually, you will trek and reach the holy Khayer Lake, located at 4,660 meters. Pilgrims from all over the place visit this lake during the Janai Purnima (full moon of August) to pray and celebrate the festival.

The Khopra Danda Trek is doable for people of all ages. Without going on a long trek, you can witness gorgeous mountain scenery and get to see the lifestyle of the locals. While spending nights in the villages, you will learn how simple life can be so satisfying. Moreover, Khopra Danda Trekking is also an ideal way to give back to the local community, as this trekking trail was developed to uplift the local communities residing on the route. Not many trekkers know about this trek; therefore, the trail is less crowded and unspoiled. 

From the top of Khopra Danda, you can see the stunning sunrise, surrounding views, and the valley below. We highly recommend this trek, especially to beginner trekkers. For further details about the Khopra Danda Trek package or its cost, please feel free to contact us at your convenience.

The best time to do Khopra Danda Trekking

Although the Khopra Danda Trek is doable year-round, spring and autumn are considered the best seasons for the trek. These seasons encircle months from March to May and September to November. The temperature ranges from 22 °C to -5 °C in these two seasons. Trekking in spring means you will be walking along the rhododendron-bloomed route. 

The freshness and enchanted smell of several wildflowers enhance the journey. While trekking in autumn is magical and festive, the air has a crisp chill that rejuvenates your soul and allows you to slowly untangle your thoughts. The sky is clear, and the views are breathtaking. Likewise, the weather remains stable with a moderate climate. 

Trekking in the monsoon is a wonderful idea. The weather is usually unstable, with unclear views and a muddy and slippery trail. Similarly, the chances of a landslide on the way also increase. While a winter trek is possible, you have to carry heavy, warm clothes as the region gets frigid and receives snowfall. 

Meals on Kopra Ridge Trek

During the trek, you will get three meals a day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The lodge serves all meals according to their menu. The menu is composed of Nepali, Tibetan, Indian, and Continental dishes. You can expect toast, butter, jam, eggs, sausage, oatmeal, cornflakes, milk, coffee, pancakes, tea, porridge, fruit, and juice for breakfast. Likewise, for lunch and dinner, there is rice; curries (veg/non-veg), chapati, noodles, Thukpa, Momo, steak, porridge, sandwiches, pasta, mashed potatoes, pudding, and more are available. 

Drinking water is available in all the lodges. All you have to do is carry a reusable water bottle and refill it every time it gets empty. You can also carry purification tablets to double-purify the water. In cities, you can dine as per your wish. Cuisine from all over the world is available in Kathmandu and Pokhara. 

Khopra Danda Trek Accommodation

During the Khopra Danda Trek, you stay overnight in a community lodge. The lodges are simple and offer basic facilities. You can spend the night in single or shared rooms as per your desire. Small rooms with comfortable bedding and shared/private washrooms are available. The warmest place in the lodge is the dining common area, where you can spend time with fellow trekkers. 

In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you stay overnight in a 3-star hotel or tourist-standard hotel. As per your budget, you can go for a lavish stay or drop down to the hostel for a budget-friendly stay. All facilities are available in the hotels.

Can we do the Khopra Trek without a guide?

The Khopra Ridge Trek is a newly made trekking trail in the Himalayas. Not all trekking guides are well-known for this trail, and the same goes for travelers. Yes, you can do Khopra Ridge Trekking alone, but we do not recommend it. The trail from Tadapani to Khopra Danda is not well marked, and that can be confusing. 

Moreover, it is a less crowded trail; therefore, you might not see any people on the way to ask for help. Plus, hiring a guide will keep you safe and inform you more about the region, villages, and culture of the locals. We offer professional guides who have mapped the Khopra Danda Trek route before and have ample knowledge about the locals.

Difficulty Level of Khopra Danda Trek

The Kopra Ridge Trek in Nepal is an effortless trek with moderate sections that add adventure to the journey. The most difficult part of the trek is ascending to the Khopra Dana. The route is steep and rugged. You have to trek for 5 to 6 hours daily. There are many ascents and descents along the route as well. The Khopra Danda Trek leads above 4,500 meters, which means you can get altitude sickness if your body does not acclimate properly on the way. 

Symptoms

  • Fatigue
  • Headaches
  • Insomnia
  • Nausea
  • Decreased appetite

Preventive Measure

  • Ascend at a slow pace with a constant increase in elevation
  • Carry prescribed medicines
  • Keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water
  • Do not smoke or consume alcohol
  • Descend to a lower altitude if you see any symptoms and rest until all the symptoms go away

Khopra Trek Permit

The Khopra Danda trekking route lies inside the Annapurna Conservation Area. To go on Khayer Lake Trekking, you have to get an Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit (ACAP) and a Trekkers’ Information Management System Card (TIMS) card. You can get both of the permits from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or the Nepal Tourism Board at Damside, Pokhara.

  1. Cost of ACAP permit: NPR 3000 (equivalent to USD 30) per person
  2. Cost of a TIMS card: NPR 2000 (equivalent to USD 20) per person
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Khopra Trek
Day-to-day

Khopra Trek Itinerary

Our Guide will come to your hotel in the morning at about 7:00 AM and drive to Thikhedhunga (1,160m)/Ulleri (1,90m) by Jeep via the traditional trekking route Nayapul, Birethanti and drive following the north bank of the Bhurungdi Khola through the Gurung, Magar, and Thakali villages and climbs steadily up the side of the valley to Hille (1495m) and Tikhedhunga (1570m) and finally get in Ulleri. Our journey begins through the large Magar’s village at Ulleri (2,070m). Then the trail continues to ascend more gently, through dense forests of oak and rhododendrons towards Banthanti (2250m). Occasionally, we can see Lonmgur (long tail black mouth Monkey) jumping in the trees. Then we trek towards Nangethanti (2,460m), after an hour walk we arrive at Ghorepani (2840m). Stay overnight at a lodge.

Day Highlights
Max Elevation: 2,840m (9,317ft)Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Tea House

We will hike about 45 minutes up to Poon Hill (3210m) early in the morning. This viewpoint provides an unobstructed and beautiful view of the sunrise over the high Himalayas with panoramic views of giants Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna (8,091m), Machhapuchere, Nilgiri, Hiuchuli, South Annapurna, etc. Additionally, we can see a network of other peaks, slowly beginning to appear like magic before our eyes. We come back to Ghorepani for a hot breakfast, and start walking to Swata/Swanta through the pine and rhododendron forests before Chitre village. Chitre is inhabited by the Magar community. From where you will take the Khopra trail to the Swans. Stay overnight community base tea house at Swanta.

Day Highlights
Max Elevation: 2,270m (7,447ft)Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerDuration: 3 to 4 hoursAccommodation: Tea House

After having breakfast, we start a trip to the Khopra Danda climb steeply trail from Swanta. After a couple of hours of walking, we will have lunch at Chhistibang named Dhand Kharka. Even though it is steep up, the trail is pleasant through the forests of rhododendron and oak with glimpse of wildlife. Most of the time, you have magnificent mountain scenery and a view of Andha gorge (The world’s deepest gorge) at Dana Valley. In spring the jungle looks colorful with rhododendron, magnolia, and verities of orchids that spread out perfume. Finally, we arrive at the Tea house at Khopra, it is an incredible viewpoint with a 360-degree angle for the western region Himalayas range. Truly this is far better than Pun Hill and Sarangkot but you need more affordable to get here. Khopra is the gateway to the Barahi Tal, situated at an altitude of 4,700 m. The place is worth visiting during the time of the ritual thread ceremony festival. Stay overnight at the community base tea house.

Day Highlights
Max Elevation: 3,660m (12,007ft)Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Tea House

Today is your excursion day, you will visit the Hindu and Buddhist sacred shrine Khair/ Khayer Lake, which is situated at the altitude of 4,700 meters from sea level, and this is the main theme of this trip. Beyond the Khopra Danda, there is not any settlement, so you need to prepare a packed lunch, some energy bars and enough drinking water with sufficient warm clothes during day hike. The hike is quite long but you have 360-degree excellent mountain views of the Annapurna Fang, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and surrounding mountains. The locals get together at this sacred lake on the occasion of the August full moon (Janai Purnima) with their traditional culture, dress, and customs. People believe that, when you visit Khair Lake and parry goddess whatever you want, she will fulfill it. Even the infertile married woman, pray to God Khayer Barah, she will get her upspring. Return back to Khopra Danda for an overnight stay.

Day Highlights
Max Elevation: 4,700m (15,419ft)Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerDuration: 2 to 3 HoursAccommodation: Tea House

Today is quite a long walk to the Bayali (3432m), most of the trail is descending but there are some up and flat also. After breakfast, the trail goes through the high Himalayas with breathtaking mountain scenery. There are two trails; Upper and lower, the lower route is batter during the snowy season due to the upper trail would be ice frozen on the trail but for the viewpoint, the Upper route is best. Except in winter, other times can use the upper route. This is a beautiful walk view of Annapurna south 7219m, Himchuli (6441m), Fish Tail/Machhapuchhre (6993m), Annapurna III (7555m), and Annapurna II (7937m). After 6 to 7 hours of walking, you will stay overnight at Bayali Tea House.

Day Highlights
Max Elevation: 3,432m (11,259ft)Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerDuration: 6 to 7 hoursAccommodation: Tea House

After breakfast, the trail descends through the alpine ridge, with breathtaking mountains and panoramic vista to the Tadapani. Today we see many trekkers on the main route. We can also take a hot shower in our lodge. Today, also there are two trails to the Tadapani, one through the Deurai and the next straight. When you walk down to the Bhaisi Kharka/Dobate, the right trail goes to the Deurali, and the left goes to the Tatapani through the Isharu (3137m), Meshar (2969m) with tremendous views. We advise you to take the new open route to the Tadapani. The trail to the Deurali climbs down gently along ridges with pine and rhododendron forests to the Deurali and then descends through the main trekking route with beautiful waterfalls, streams, and dense forests to the Banthati. The stream has some clear pools alongside the trail and we climb up to the final destination Tadapani, meaning ‘far water’ and the water supply for this village is a long distance below. Stay the night at Tea House. 

Day Highlights
Max Elevation: 2,520m (8,267ft)Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerDuration: 4 to 5 hoursAccommodation: Tea House

After having breakfast and enjoying the view of the mountains, we will descend steeply through the dense forests with breathtaking panorama views of the Ghaundrung village, inhabited by the Gurung ethnic group. If you wake up early in the morning you can catch some excellent sunrises above the mountains. You can visit the Annapurna conservation office, museum, and picturesque ancient Gurung village, the second-largest Gurung settlement in Nepal. After having lunch at Ghandruk walk to Kimche for about 4 to 5 hours then drive to Pokhara by jeep for another 2 to 3 hours. Then free to your own destination.

Day Highlights
Max Elevation: 950m (3,116ft)Meals: Breakfast, LunchDuration: 2 to 3 hours Drive
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Included

Khopra Trek Cost Details

Includes

  • ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) and TIMS (Trekkers Information System) cards.
  • Transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara to Kathmandu by comfortable tourist bus.
  • If necessary, trekking equipment such as worm-down jackets, sleeping bags, and duffle bags will be provided throughout the trek.
  • You will receive a Nepal Mother House T-shirt or cap, along with an Appreciation Card at the end of the trip.
  • Participants will receive three meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) each day during the trek.
  • Soft & comfortable private accommodation, an entire mountain twin bed sharing with a shared toilet.
  • Government license holder English-speaking experienced local guide with their food, accommodation, salary, insurance, and equipment.
  • If the group size exceeds 10, a Sherpa (assistance guide) will be provided. Plus their food, accommodation, salary, insurance, and equipment.
  • A Trekking Map of the Annapurna Trip for a Group.
  • The group will also receive supplemental snacks such as cookies and fresh fruits during the trek.
  • The group will receive a first-aid medical kit during the trip, which includes an oximeter to measure oxygen and pulse at high altitude.
  • The program will include a welcome and farewell ceremony.
  • Tourist service charge, VAT, government tax, and official expense if necessary.

Excludes

  • All kinds of cold and hot drinks, including drinking water, tea, coffee, chocolate, cookies, dessert, phone calls, laundry, and hot showers.
  • Clients' travel insurance and evacuation (compulsory).
  • If necessary, the flight will be canceled, and a charter helicopter or plane will be used.
  • If you need a porter who carries a maximum of 20-25 kg, including his 4-5 kg of personal gear, plus their food, accommodation, wage, insurance, and all transportation.
  • For tipping ideas for guides and porters (10 to 15% of your trek expenses is considered fair), however, this is from your inner heart.
  • Your meals, accommodation, and transportation in Kathmandu & Pokhara.
  • Personal expenses such as shopping, souvenirs or gifts, and personal mountaineering gear will also be covered.
  • Extended trips and sightseeing are optional.
  • The trip cost includes international airfare, airport departure tax, and visa fees.
  • Things that aren’t mentioned above in our services (trip cost includes).
  • Visa fee: You obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport, Kathmandu.
Availability

Departure Dates

Except for the fixed departure date, we have every day departure according to your requirements.

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Good to Know

Essential Information

Few things are worth arranging while you are at home. Please note down these list details before your departure. These tips will help you make your trip enjoyable:

  • Read travel advice, inform yourself before traveling, and get advice locally when you arrive.
  • Make sure your passport is valid during your travels and consult about visa processing.
  • Estimate your budget and fixed holiday period, then choose a suitable destination.
  • Please make sure to review the travel checklist before departing and prepare accordingly.
  • Inform your friends and family about your trip and itinerary details.
  • Please make copies of your important documents to serve as a backup in case the originals are misplaced.
  • Buy a guidebook and study Nepal’s general information (culture, customs, politics, people, geography, weather, festivals, religion, rules, and regulations).
  • Buy insurance that will cover all overseas medical and emergency evacuation costs.
  • It is better to know at least a few Nepali words while traveling there.
  • Make reservations with advance payment, especially during peak season, for trips, accommodations, and local guides.
  • Call your bank for debit and credit cards to let them know about fees and your travel destination. Please obtain your bank’s emergency phone number in case you encounter any issues.
  • Visit the doctor for your health report and take medicine and vaccines accordingly.
  • Remember, the local laws apply to you as a visitor, and it is your responsibility to follow them.
  • Be sensitive to local customs, traditions, and practices, as your behavior may be considered improper, hostile, or even illegal.
  • Never step over anyone's feet/legs, and pull in your legs when somebody wants to pass.
  • Never touch anybody with your feet, and never point in a direction using them. The feet are considered the most impure part of the body.
  • When you enter a house, someone's kitchen, a temple, or a monastery, you should take off your shoes.
  • As a woman, you should always be dressed to avoid provocation, so keep your shoulders and legs covered.
  • It's polite to give and accept with your right hand, especially if you support your right elbow with your left.
  • If you're uncertain about how to behave in specific situations, maintain a low profile, refrain from shouting, and uphold your dignity.
  • It is better not to touch offerings or people when they are on their way to shrines.
  • Beef is prohibited among both Hindus and Buddhists. Hindus and Buddhists do not kill female animals for food.
  • The inner sanctuaries of temples and stupas may not allow you entry.
  • You may be interested in taking snaps of temples, stupas, and monuments. Generally, you can photograph temples, stupas, and monuments, but it's advisable to obtain permission before using your cameras. 

For more details, please visit Nepal Travel Tips.