Nepal has numerous hidden trekking trails that provide breathtaking views of massive mountains, much like the well-known trekking routes. One of the finest is the Khopra Ridge Trek, located near Pokhara City. This trail is considered one of the top short-duration treks near Pokhara.
The Khopra Ridge Trekking, also known as Khopra Danda in Nepali, is a relatively easy hike that can be completed within a week depending on the chosen route. It is worth noting that Khopra Ridge and Khopra Danda are two names for the same trekking trail. “Danda” is the Nepali translation of the English word “ridge”. Unlike the Mardi Himal Trek, this trail is not a commercial one. During the trekking, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the world’s seventh-tallest mountain, Dhaulagiri, as well as the Annapurna range and numerous other snow-capped peaks.
Overview of Khopra Ridge/Danda Trek
Trip Name :
Khopra Ridge/Danda Trek
Maximum Altitude :
3,660 meter /12,008 feet
Trip Duration :
7 Days ( can be done also 5 Days )
Group Size :
1 to 10 person ( Typically 2 to 6 person Group)
Best Time :
Jan to May and Sept to Dec
Difficulty Level :
Easy to Moderate
Activity :
5 to 7 hours walking each day
Nature of Trek :
Teahouses/Community Lodge
We at Base Camp Hike are pleased to present our well-crafted 6 Nights 7 Days KHOPRA RIDGE TREKKING ITINERARY, which will give you UNFORGOTABLE EXPERIENCE. Guided Package are available at very affordable PRICES. If you want to grab this offer, booking is available for 2023 and 2024. Regarding booking Trekking to Khopra Ridge, you can book the Trip in less than 5 minutes with us. Our team is more than willing to customize Package to align with your holiday schedule, Budget scale, and physical capabilities. When it comes to a reliable Trekking company for your KHOPRA RIDGE, look no further and get in touch with us. We’re local expert operator any trekking in Nepal.
Cost for Khopra Ridge ( Danda ) Trek
Regarding the cost of the Khopra Ridge Trek package, it depends on what types of services you want for your trip.
According to our company’s plan for the Khopra Ridge/Danda Trek, it costs USD 495 per person. This price is for a standard package for two people. It includes most of the services required for a guided trip to Khopra Danda. However, if you wish to have a luxury trip or budgeted trip, we can provide those types of packages as well.
We offer trekking to Khopra Ridge at a reasonable price. Our guided trekking package covers major expenses (guide, porters, permits, accommodation, transportation, and more) of trekking. Therefore, our package is an inclusive package with the best price.
PRICE FOR KHOPRA RIDGE/DANDA TREK ( GUIDED PACKAGE )
In a single line, Khopra Trek is the best short-duration underrated trekking in Nepal. As it lies in the Annapurna Region, it is also one of the finest trails of Annapurna. It is an easy trail where we can observe a giant peak from a close distance. This trail is suitable for family treks or student tours. Moreover, it is the best Himalayan trek for beginners in Nepal. Nonetheless, it is regarded as the best short trek near Pokhara.
Khopra Ridge Trekking – One of the best off-the-beaten Path in Nepal
There are some emerging trekking trails in the Annapurna Region, and the Khopra Ridge (Danda) trek is one of the best. This lesser-known trail rewards hikers with amazing mountain views. There is only one community lodge on Khopra Danda so far, but others are under construction. Therefore, during the peak trekking season in Nepal, it is difficult to get a room for tourists if you do not make reservations at least a week in advance.
In Khopra Danda and Chistibung, there are community lodges. This is why the trek is also known as the Khopra Community Lodges trek. The good thing about community lodge treks is that the profits from the lodges go towards social work, such as school education in the area. This trail was opened a few years ago to explore the hidden beauty of the Annapurna Region. If you are looking for an off-the-beaten-path trek, this is the one for you.
What to see during trekking to Khopra Ridge?
Along the trek to Khopra Ridge, you will get one of the best views of Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Nilgiri (7,061m), Annapurna Fang (7,647m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Machhapuchhre (6,997m) and many sub-mountains of Dhaulagiri.
The journey to Khopra Ridge takes you through Rhododendron forests, picturesque farmlands, and an awe-inspiring landscape. On the way to Khayar Lake, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, and Nilgiri.
Trekking to Khopra Danda is a more worthwhile trekking trail than the overcrowded Mardi Himal and poon hill trek. Overall, this trail deserves more tourists. I highly recommend visiting this beautiful trail at least once in your life.
Highlights:
Panoramic views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Himalayas from a closer distance
Mesmerizing Sunrise and Sunset over Mt.Dhaulagiri and Mt.Annapurna
Amazing landscape with Rhododendron forests and lush vegetation
An underrated trekking from where you can get a real taste of nature and be free from a crowded environment.
Explore Khayar lake( Holy Lake) with stunning mountain scenery
Experience the Gurung’s and Magar’s typical villages lifestyle
Get 180-degree mountain views from Mulde View Point
Which is the easiest route for KHOPRA RIDGE/DANDA TREKKING?
There is no single best way to do the Khopra Danda Trek, as there are many alternative routes to take. The easiest route depends on your starting point.
If you are doing the Ghorepani Trek and want to do the Khopra Trek as well, it is easy to start from Tadapani or Deurali and end in Nayapul.
If you want to do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek first and then the Khopra Ridge Trek, you can do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek first and then follow the route up to Tadapani on your way back. However, you do not need to go all the way to Tadapani. From Chuile, there is a trail that leads to Dobato, which is part of the Khopra Trek. You can then continue on the Khopra Trek from there.
If you only want to do the Khopra Ridge Trek, the easiest route is to start from Ghandruk and end in Ulleri/Nayapul.
BEST ITINERARY OF KHOPRA RIDGE TREK
Regarding the itinerary, we offer a 7-day plan that includes the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. Since our itinerary includes two beautiful trails (Khopra Danda and Ghorepani Poon Hill), we believe it is the best itinerary for a Khopra trip. If you are interested in a longer trek, we can combine this trek with the Annapurna Base Camp or Mardi Himal Trek. Please note that we can customize the itinerary to meet your specific preferences.
Days
Itinerary
Altitude
Hour
Day 1
Drive to Ghandruk from Pokhara & Trekking to Tadapani
2630m/8,629ft
6 to 7 hr
Day 2
Tadapani to Dobato
3440m/11,287ft
5 to 6 hr
Day 3
Dobato to Khopra Ridge/Danda
3660m/12,008ft
7 to 8 hr
Day 4
Hike to Khayar Lake( Optional Rest at Khopra Danda)
3660m/12,008ft
9 to 10 hr
Day 5
Khopra Danda to Swanta Village
2200m/7,218ft
6 to 7 hr
Day 6
Swanta village to Ghorepani
2850m/9,350ft
4 to 5 hr
Day 7
Trekking to Naypul via Poon Hill and drive to Pokhara
850m/2,789ft
9 to 10 hr
Not satisfied with our Itinerary?
Are you interested on planning custom trip? It takes only 2 to 3 minutes.
Today marks the beginning of our trek to Khopra. On this day, you will be picked up by our guide at your hotel in Pokhara and we will drive to Ghandruk Village. The drive takes approximately 4 hours. You will have lunch at Ghandruk Village. After lunch, you will make a short trek to Tadapani (3 hours) through alpine forest. The ascent from Ghandruk Village to Bhaisikharka (a campsite before Tadapani) is more gradual. But the Bhaisikharka to Tadapani is a gentle slope. The total walking distance from Ghandruk Village to Tadapani is 8 kilometers (5 miles). Stay overnight at Tadapani.
Tadapani
4 hours drive and 3-hour trek
B, L, D
2630m/8,629ft
Day 2: Trekking to Dobato
On this second day of our trip, we will make a short trek from Tadapani to Dobato. Dobato is one of the best places to see Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Fishtail. Along the way, you will enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna and Hiuchuli, as well as waterfalls, pasturelands of buffalo, sheep, goats, diverse flora, and fauna. Before reaching Dobato, we will cross the small settlements of Isharu and Meshar. After having lunch in Isharu, we will continue our journey to Dobato. Stay overnight at Dobato. The total walking distance between Tadapani and Dobato is 7 kilometers (4.3 miles).
Dobato
5 to 6 hour
B, L, D
3440m/11,287ft
Day 3: Trekking to Khopra Danda
On this third day of our trip, we will hike to Mulde View Point and trek up to Khopra Danda(Ridge). Early in the morning, we will wake up and go to Mulde Peak for sunrise views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains without backpacks. The Mulde Peak is best for sunrise and sunset. It takes 30 minutes to get to Mulde View Point from Dobato. It is superior to Poon Hill (the most crowded viewpoint), but underrated. This means you can experience the views without the crowds. From Mulde Peak, you can see the Dhaulagiri range and the Annapurna range. After enjoying the views from Mulde Peak, we will return to Dobato for breakfast. After breakfast, we will trek to Khopra Danda. Khopra Danda/Ridge is located at an altitude of 3,660 meters above sea level. On the way to Khopra Danda, we will have closer views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South. The total walking distance from Dobato to Khopra Ridge is 10 kilometers (6.2 miles).
Khopra Danda
7 to 8 hour
B, L, D
3660m/12,008ft
Day 4: Hike to Khayar Lake (Rest at Khopra Danda)
Today marks the fourth day of our trip, and it is the most highlighted part of the trip. On this day, we will hike to Khayar Lake from Khopra Ridge, which is considered to be a challenging day hike.
Khayar Lake Hike is the most challenging part of this trek. It takes around 10 hours to complete the hike. Climbing from 3660 meters to 4680 meters (nearly 1000 meters of ascent and descent) in a single day is very tough. There are no guesthouses between Khayar Lake and Khopra. However, there is a teahouse halfway where we can have lunch before reaching Khayar Lake.
Khayar Lake is a holy lake located at 4680 meters at the foot of Annapurna South. It is an optional day hike from Khopra Ridge. I am saying optional day hike because it is a tough hike that takes around 10 hours and requires walking above 3660 meters. It is not suitable for those who do not have previous hiking experience or strong physical fitness. However, keep in mind that you will not miss out on any views if you skip the Khayar Lake Hike.
Khayar Lake is especially popular with local people because they worship the lake. Near Khayar Lake, there is a temple where locals go to worship. The total distance between Khopra Danda and Khayar Lake is 11 kilometers (6.8 miles), and the hike takes around 9 to 10 hours to complete.
Khopra Danda
9 to 10 hour
B, L, D
3660m/12,008ft
Day 5: Khopra Ridge to Swanta village
Today marks the fifth day of our trip, and we will trek from Khopra Ridge to Swanta Village. Swanta Village is a beautiful mountain village situated at 2200 meters above sea level. It is a beautiful village of Magar and other ethnic groups. There are around 5 to 6 teahouses in Swanta Village. From Swanta Village, you can see Dhaulagiri Mountain.
On this day, we will descend all the way to Swanta, which is a descent of around 1460 meters. The total distance from Khopra Danda to Swanta Village is 9.6 kilometers (5.9 miles), and the hike takes around 6 to 7 hours to complete. Stay overnight at a guesthouse in Swanta.
Swanta
6 to 7 hour
B, L, D
2200m/7,218ft
Day 6: Trekking to Ghorepani
On the sixth day of our Khopra Trip, we will trek to Ghorepani from Swanta Village. Today, we will initially descend to a small river, and then ascend all the way to Ghorepani. We will be in Ghorepani at lunchtime. The total distance from Swanta to Ghorepani is 8 kilometers (4.9 miles), and the hike takes around 4 to 5 hours to complete. Stay overnight at a guesthouse in Ghorepani.
Ghorepani
3 to 4 hour
B, L, D
2850m/9,350ft
Day 7: Trekking to Naypul via Poon Hill and drive to Pokhara
Today marks the last day of our 7-day Khopra Trek. On this day, we will hike to Poon Hill, trek to Nayapul, and drive to Pokhara. Early in the morning, we will hike to Poon Hill for a sunrise experience, but it is optional, as you have already seen superior views from Mulde View Point, which is above Poon Hill View Point.
On this day, we will ascend to Poon Hill (3,210 meters) early in the morning to view the sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs, including Mount Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). Poon Hill is also a favorite spot for photographers looking to capture the best views of the Himalayas.
After catching magical sunrise views of the giants mountains and landscapes, we will return to Ghorepani and trek to Nayapul. The total walking distance from Ghorepani to Nayapul via Poon Hill is 19.5 kilometers (11.8 miles), and the hike takes around 8 to 9 hours to complete. From Nayapul, we will arrange a jeep or taxi (depending on group size) to drive to Pokhara. Upon reaching your hotel in Pokhara, our short trek to Khopra Ridge will be complete.
8 to 9 hour
B, L
822m/2697ft
Inclusion and Exclusion in Package:-
Includes in Package:
Private transfers for your international flight ( Arrival & Departure )
Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu by Tourist Bus
Pokhara to Ghandruk by Private Cab/Jeep(Depends on Group size)
Nayapul to Pokhara by Private Cab/Jeep
Meals During Trekking ( 7 X Breakfast, 7 X Lunch, 6 X Dinner )
Is hiking experience necessary for the Khopra trek?
No, you don’t need a guide. If you can walk 5-6 hours a day, you can easily do this trail. However, we suggest some walking practice for a few months before attempting the trek.
What types of accommodation can we expect on the Khopra Trek?
You will find teahouse accommodation in most places, but there are community lodges in Khopra Danda and also in Chistbung.
How long does it take to complete Khopra Danda(Ridge) Trekking?
The Khopra Danda trek can be completed in 5-10 days. If you want to include Ghorepani, Poon Hill, and Tatopani, the trek will take around 10 days. However, if you want to complete the trek in 5-7 days, you will need to skip either Ghorepani or Tatopani.
How to Get There and Away?
First, you should be in Pokhara to start Khopra Trekking. Then, we can take a taxi or jeep from Pokhara to Ghandruk (the trekking starting point). From Nayapul (the trekking ending point), we can drive to Pokhara or Kathmandu by taxi or jeep.
Is trekking to Khopra Ridge superior to Ghorepani Poon Hill trekking?
Yes, trekking to Khopra is superior to Ghorepani Poon Hill trekking. We can say that trekking to Khopra is an alternative trekking trail to the most popular short Ghorepani Poon Hill trek. Because from this route, you’ll have a closer view of the mountains than Poon Hill. If you want to avoid more touristy areas, Trekking to Khopra Danda can be your best choice. Khopra Trekking is the best hike route due to the outstanding views of more than 10 peaks from Khopra Danda. We can say that Khopra Danda(Ridge) Trek is the best short hike in the Annapurna region. In terms of altitude, it is an easy to moderate difficulty trek. We stay one night at Khopra Danda (3,660 meters) and for Khayar Lake, you should hike up to 4,800 meters. The Khayar Lake hike makes this trip more adventurous. If you want to see Annapurna South, just close your eyes, and if you want to explore Khayar Lake, you should hike from Khopra Danda to Khayar Lake.
Can we get Vegetarian food food during the trekking?
Vegetarian food is the only option at Lodges in Khopra Danda and Chistibung. At the rest of the places, you will have both vegetarian and non-vegetarian items available. At all of the places, you will be given a menu from which you can choose what to eat.
Can we get safe drinking water?
You can easily find mineral water in most areas of Khopra, but some places have banned it to reduce plastic waste. If you can’t find mineral water, don’t worry – safe drinking water is available. Just make sure to bring your own water bottle to fill up.
Do I need a porter to carry my luggage?
Having a Porter makes trekking easier. Typically, a Porter can carry up to 25 kilograms of your gear, so you can walk more easily.
Is it possible to hire a local expert guide for the Khopra trek?
Of course, you can get a local expert guide for the Khopra trek if you book your trip with Base Camp Hike. We have a guide who has already done the Khopra-Khayar Lake journey more than 10 times.
Is it necessary to bring a sleeping bag on the Khopra trek?
You must bring a sleeping bag during the winter season and the main trekking season for the Khopra trek. For the rest of the time, teahouses may be able to provide enough blankets because there are fewer tourists. However, it is still recommended to bring a sleeping bag for trekking to Khopra.
How many hours we should walk each day of Khopra Danda Trek?
Normally, the average walking time per day is 6-7 hours for Khopra Danda Trekking. The day of the Khayar Lake hike will be at least 10 hours of walking, but other days, the walking time will be 6-7 hours per day.
Is it necessary to bring trekking poles and crampons for the Khopra trek?
Trekking poles can be like an extra leg if you use them properly. They can help a lot to maintain your legs in good condition. Crampons are essential for safety on the Khopra trek during the winter season.
Is it possible to get a Hot shower?
Yes, it is possible to get a hot shower at most teahouses along the Khopra Danda trek, but you will need to pay a small fee of 1-3 US dollars.s. Every place you can get a hot shower but for it, you should pay money 1 USD to 3 USD.
KHOPRA TREKKING TESTIMONIALS ( REVIEWS )
Adventure and fun.
Rated 5 out of 5
Difficult to say, but the view from Muldy Peak was spectacular and Kopra Danda was amazing once the clouds lifted.
William Mccreadie
Khopra Danda Trek
Rated 5 out of 5
We are a group of first timers from Singapore. We spoke to few other operators months before our treks and Jayaram, the owner of Base Camp hike surpassed others in terms of responses , services etc. Overall, it was a phenomenal experience, all made possible by the team led by founder Jayaram, who double his job as a mountain guide with assistant guide Man Bahadur Lama, 3 porters, Dipendra Guni, Bijaya Lama and Sujip Tamang. Everything was well planned and exceed our expectations in all areas. Base Camp hike is simply the best.
Global338355
INCREDIBLE! Khopra Ridge trek with Base Camp Hike
Rated 5 out of 5
I did the Khopra Ridge trek with my son in February 2020. We had a great time! Because we choose best off the beaten trek with a trusted trekking agency.
Thapaliya Ram was our guide and Dipendra was Porter for the trekking.
Both of them were professional and Honest.
Guide( Ram) was very knowledgeable about all of the surrounding Khopra area and the local customs of the Khopra Route.
Mr. Ram speaks great English and is good fun to be with!
Tuny Hilger
Very Happy with trek and Company
Rated 5 out of 5
Excellent value for money, everything well organized. We came across Base Camp Hike Company , while we were looking for the best local agency to do Khopra Ridge Trek. We had such an amazing adventure trek of a lifetime. Mountain Scenery from Khopra Danda was incredible. Such a beautiful place but basic teahouse(only 1).
Jayaram has sorted all our queries via whatsapp with very fast response and provided us with Kamal our leader. Kamal did fantastic job. We are very happy with the services and recommended all Khopra Trekking as well as Base Camp Hike Company.
Laid Akkache
Khopra ridge trek with base camp hike – perfect experience
Rated 5 out of 5
I did the Khopra Ridge trek in November 2019.
Before the trip, I had a lot of questions and Base Camp Hike did always respond quickly and detailedly. They can also advise which trek is best for you. Also, they will advise on what equipment you’ll need and they can tell which of that you can also buy (might cheaper) in Nepal.
I choose the Khopra Ridge trek because it’s less known than other short treks (ABC etc.). Also, I didn’t want to have a one way and back trek.
Everything was perfectly well organized and from the beginning I felt comfortable. I had a really experienced guide (Jarayam). This trek is new (for about three years) so there are not so many guides who already have experience with this trek. The trek was the perfect choice for me because as expected it’s off a beaten trek (except for poon hill) and the views are brilliant. At Khopra Danda and also Dobato (Mulde viewpoint) you will get superb and near views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range. During the trek, we were quite flexible and I also took one day rest in Dobato.
I can totally recommend Base Camp Hike for your trekking in Nepal. Don’t wait any longer and go explore the beautiful Himalayas.
Andri Remo Gimperle
Response from Base Camp Hike
Dear GEMPERLE REMO ANDRI,
Namaste and warm greeting from Base Camp Hike!
We express our sincere thanks and gratefulness to you for giving us an opportunity to provide you our service.
We are so happy that you fully enjoyed Khopra Ridge Trek with our guide Jayaram.
As you told us that you’re interested to do Annapurna Circuit Trek for the next visit to Nepal with us. We appreciate it.
We are waiting for you to provide another great experience in Nepal’s Himalayas.
Best Regards
Base Camp Hike
Get QUOTE For Trekking to Khopra Ridge
The group departure dates listed below are specially quoted and specified for GROUP JOIN TREKKING. Please let us know if our departure dates are not suitable for you. BASE CAMP HIKE can arrange private trips departing on any date that suits your holiday.
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Cost and Date for Group Join Trekking [ Fixed Departure ]