Khopra Ridge Trek

Khopra Ridge Trek A beautiful short in Annapurna Region

Khopra Ridge Trek is one of the most beautiful treks which lies under the Annapurna Range. Khopra Danda Trek can be covered within 5 to 7 days. Khopra Danda/Hill is also known as Khopra Ridge where the term “Danda” means Ridge. Khopra Danda Trek is a recently popular trek that is famous for its beauty.  You will be able to find accommodation where you will be staying in lodges which will be run by the locals.

From Khopra Danda you will get a view of Annapurna south and other ranges of it. Along with your Khopra Trek, you will get a chance to experience other side treks as well. As the Khopra trek gained popularity recently you will be able to discover many short treks/hikes. Being a newly popular trek feel its beauty in a less crowded.

According to its routes, the Khopra trek is similar to the Poonhill trek because it is one of the most famous classical treks. As mentioned, it is similar to the Poonhill trek but the location is crowded less.

Khopra Ridge Trek
Khopra Ridge Trek
Photo credit: Andrew and Annemarie on Visualhunt

Where is Khopra Ridge Trek Located?

Khopra Danda Trek lies within the Annapurna circuit towards the northeast of Pokhara. The Khopra Danda Trek is near the Myagdi District. It is located near the Ghorepani which is the main point of Poonhill.

There are two ways to reach Khopra Danda according to safety measures. Some routes start from Ghorepani and another from Nayapul. Among these two the most recommended route to Khopra is from Nayapul where you will start your trek. If you choose your trek through Ghorepani then it will take way too long.

Highlights of Khopra Ridge/Danda Trek

  • A memorable trek where you will be experiencing its real beauty along with various beautiful mountains with less crowd.
  • Get a view of the beautiful snow-capped Annapurna Mountain along with its other ranges.
  • Experiencing the culture and tradition where you can spend your day with the locals.
  • Going through dense forests covered with trees and listening to the beautiful sounds of birds.
  • Calm and mind-freshening rivers.
  • Natural as well as manmade paths cross different villages.
  • Way to Khopra Danda along with many side treks/hikes.
  • Get a view of sunrise over Annapurna Mountain and the Dhaulagiri Mountain range.
  • Going to Khayer Lake as a side hike which lich to the Annapurna South.
  • Enjoy the evening with a view of the Annapurna mountain range.
  • Get to know the locals and their settlements till Ghorepani and get to view the greenery, and vegetation such as the rhododendron forest.
  • A similar view of Poonhill but with less crowd.
  • Along your trek, you can enjoy your time at natural hot springs.
  • You can enjoy the views of various mountains such as Annapurna South, Annapurna I Dhaulagiri, Annapurna II and III, Dhampus Peak 6, Dhaulagiri 8, Gangapurna 7, Nilgiri Mountain, Tukuche Peak 6, Hiunchuli 6, and many more.
  • You will be experiencing the highest peaks in Asia.
  • Get a view of wildlife such as Marten, Himalayan Tahr, Himalayan mouse hares, Himalayan Musk Deer, Weasels, Lynx, and many more.
  • Beautiful lake view in Pokhara where you can enjoy the shadows of mountains falling on the lake.
  • Experience the cheese factory at Pawar.
  • Get to know the lifestyle and traditions of Ghandrung village
  • Enjoy different colors of rhododendron forests during the flowering season.
Sun Set at Khopra Ridge Trek
Sun Set at Khopra Ridge Trek
Photo credit: mario_ruckh on Visualhunt.com

Facts about Khopra Ridge Trek

As mentioned Khopra Ridge Trek is one of the most famous new trekking spots in Nepal. It has been a few years since the place gained popularity.

The total height of Khopra Danda is 3640m but if you wish to continue your trekking along with side treks then you will reach a height of 4600m in Khayar Lake. Among all the sleeping points in your Itinerary, you will be sleeping at 3640m at Khopra Danda which is the highest peak in your journey.

Total Distance of Khopra Ridge Trek

The total distance that you will be covering will be 55km but if you choose to visit other places as a side trek/hike then it could reach about 90km to 100km.

How long has the Khopra Ridge Trek been operated?

Trek to Khopra is one of the newly operated trekking spots. It has been almost 5 to 6 years since there used to be natural and raw paths. So, as time passed and it gained popularity people started to develop its routes. It has been years since people started trekking to Khopra.

Wildlife during the Khopra Ridge Trek

Annapurna region is famous for various species of birds, animals, fish, and insects. In Khopra Danda you will be able to find various animals but some are hard to find. In Khopra you will be able to witness Himalayan musk deer, Tahr, Lynx, Himalayan mouse hares, and many other animals.

Is Khopra Ridge Trek Peaceful?

Most of the trekkers who come to trek prefer peace and less crowded areas. Compared with other famous trekking spots Khopra Ridge Trek is very much peaceful. It has a similar trekking structure to Poon Hill with a far better view and fewer crowds. If you are planning, you trek to a peaceful place with fewer people then I highly recommend you to go to Khopra Ridge where you can have a lifetime experience.

Mountain Views during Khopra Ridge Trek

Once you have achieved your destination you will get have a breathtaking view there you will be surrounded by different mountains such as Nilgiri Mountain, Annapurna I, II, & III, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain), Annapurna South 7, Dhaulagiri 8, Tukuche peak6, Gurja 7 mountain, Gangapurna 7, Dhampus peak, Hiunchuli 6 and many other snowcapped mountains. Among all these mountains you will see the best view of Annapurna South.

Khopra Ridge Trek
Photo credit: mario_ruckh on Visualhunt.com

Arranging a Trek to Khopra Ridge?

Khopra Danda is one of the newest popular trekking spots in Nepal. So, being a new spot many travel agencies are unaware of it. You can find many travel agencies on the internet which will plan a trip for you but if you contact us then we can plan a trek for you as well. Being one of the oldest and most trusted agencies most trekkers are happy with your services. We will be providing you with various itineraries or you can submit your, own custom itinerary as well.

Detailed Khopra Ridge Trek Itinerary

Day 1:  Start your Trek from Nayapul and rest at Kimche(1784m) then you will continue your trek to Ghandruk. (Trekking distance-8km)

Your first day of the trek will begin from Nayapul. You will be driven by bus/car/jeep to Nayapul from Pokhara. After you start your trek you will be trekking towards Syauli Bazar to Kimche. You will be having your lunch and a short break in Kimche then you will continue your journey to Ghandruk (1940m) which is one of the most popular and beautiful Gurung villages. In Ghandruk you will be visiting various Buddhist monasteries along with their traditions and cultures. You will be spending your first night in Ghandruk village.

Day 2: Trek to Bayeli Kharka. (Trekking distance-15km)

After you leave Ghandruk village you will be going through oak forests, bridges, and rhododendron forests. The tour trek to Bayeli Kharka will be through Tadapani(2630m). On your way to Tadapani, you will not find any accommodation but once you reach Bhainsi Kharka you will find various teahouses.

After Bhainsi Kharka you will continue your trek through rhododendron trees. The trials will lead you to Bayeli Kharka. You will be spending your second night in Bayeli Kharka.

Day 3: Trek to Khopra Ridge. (Trekking distance-15km)

Once you start you trek to Khopra Danda from Bayeli Kharka. Your trek will continue through forests through which you will reach Chistibang pastures and after 2 hours of trek, you will reach Khopra Danda. On your way to Khopra Danda, you will get a mesmerizing view of Annapurna South, Annapurna 1, Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri, and other mountain ranges. You will get to see different animals such as the Danfe (the national bird of Nepal). You can also get a view of Kaligandaki Gorge.

Day 4: Trek to Swanta(2214m). (Trekking distance-9.6km)

On this day you will be trekking towards Swanta but if you are interested in treks then you can visit Khayar Lake which will take 5 hours. According to the Hindus, it is believed that it is a holy lake where you can wash your sins by taking a dip. Once you have visited the lake you will be coming back to Khopra from where you will continue your trek to Swanta village. You will be spending the rest of your day in Swanta village where you can explore the cheese factory and have a taste. 

Day 5: Trek to Ghorepani(2880m). (Trekking distance-8km)

On this day you will be approaching Ghorepani from Swanta. The time duration from Swanta to Ghorepani is 5 hours. Ghorepani will be the only destination for day 5. From Swanta you will be crossing various fields and forests along with bridges above the rivers. On your way, you will meet Chittre village. The trials will meet with Annapurna Circuit. So, from there you will be moving towards Ghorepani. Once you reach Ghorepani you will be spending your time and will be spending the night.

Day 6: Visiting Poon Hill(3210m), trek to Birethani(1039m) from where you will end your trek. (Trekking distance-12.5km)

Oh on this day you will be waking up early because you won’t miss a chance to see the wonderful sunrise view between the mountains from the top of Poon Hill. You can enjoy the view of the sunrise with a cup of tea along with the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail Mountain, and many other mountains. After the view, you will be coming back to Ghorepani for breakfast then pack your bags and move towards Birethani. Trekking towards Birethani will be your last day of trekking. So, after you reach Birethani you will be going back to Pokhara through Nayapul. So, your trek is officially over.

12 days Itinerary for the Khopra Ridge Trek

Day

Route

Distance

Altitude

1

Arrive in Kathmandu

Welcome

1300

2

Kathmandu to Pokhara,

Pokhara to Kimche

Trek to Ghorepani

25 minutes,

1 hour

820m

1940m

3

Trek to Tadapani

3 hours

2630m

4

Trek to Dobato

5 hours

3420m

5

Trek to Chistibung

5 hours

3026m

6

Trek to Khopra Ridge

3 hours

3660

7

Trek to Swanta

5 hours

2214m

8

Trek to Ghorepani

3 hours

2860m

9

Trek to Tikhedunga

5 hours

1540

10

Trek to Nayapul 

4 to 5 hours

11

Pokhara sightseeing

 

12

Departure

Short 7 days Itinerary for Khopra Ridge Trek

Day

Route

Distance

Altitude

 1

Nayapul by drive

Trek to Ghandruk

5 hours

1940m

2

Trek to Dobato

5 to 6 hours

3426m

3

Trek to Dhan Kharka or Khopra Ridge

6 to 8 hours

3660m

4

Khopra Ridge and other short treks

10 hours max

4600m

5

Trek to Swanta

5.5 hours

2214m

6

Trek to Ghorepani

5 hours

2880m

7

Trek to Nayapul and back to Pokhara

2 to 3 hours max

1400m

Permits for Khopra Ridge Trek

  • For foreigners, the ACAP try permission charge is 3,000 NPR (about USD 30).
  • For SAARC nationals, the ACAP entrance permit charge is 200 NPR.
  • Permit for TIMS: 1,000 NPR (about USD 10)

Packaging list for Khopra Ridge Trek

If you are planning a trek to Khopra Danda then you will require some essential things such as:

  • Get strong trekking shoes because it is important as you will be walking for 6 to 7 hours a day.
  • Khopra Danda is a cold place so you will need warm clothes such are jackets and sweaters because you mustn’t fall sick.
  • Carry water/windproof socks and gloves because they will help you to warm your hands and feet.
  • Carry a Rucksack where you can adjust everything that you carry. If you are going with a potter, then you can get yourself 2 rucksacks because 1 will be carried by the potter.
  • Carry clothes that have long sleeves because they will protect you from the wind.
  • You will be walking for 6 to 7 hours so will have to be hydrated to get a water bottle. You can fill it out after everyone stops.
  • If you have a hard time climbing, then carry a trekking stick.
  • Hat or cap to avoid suntan.
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses along with face wipes.
  • Carry your toiletries such as towels, toothbrushes, and toothpaste toilet paper.
  • Medical kit for an emergency.
  • Carry a copy of your passport and passport-size photos for emergencies.

The difficulty level of the Khopra Ridge Trek

Trek to Khopra Danda is Moderate to easy. As it is a Danda(Ridge). It has many uphill and downhill where it takes you 4 to 5 hours. It will make a difficult trek but if you choose the right trekking gear such as strong trekking shoes and poles then you will have an easy trekking experience. The main difficulty will be on the day when you are trekking towards Khopra Danda. I would recommend you to walk slowly and stay hydrated.

Going through your Itinerary, most of your days will go easy such as on day 1 but when you keep on going throughout your trials you will start feeling tired if you walk slowly it will make you easy. On your second day, you will feel tough as you will experience much uphill and downhill but due to the mesmerizing views of snow-capped mountains, you will forget your tiredness. The main day of your trek will be difficult as you will have to climb up to Khopra Ridge where you will experience only uphill. Once you have completed your journey you will view the breathtaking scenery of mountains, environments, flowers, and much more.

Best time/month for Khopra Ridge Trek

If you are looking forward to trekking to Khopra Danda then here is the information that you will require. As Khopra is a yearly trekking spot still you must research its climate. Being a yearly trek you should visit Khopra Danda in the month of autumn and spring where you will experience beautiful mountains along with clear blue sky and chilled natural air.

If you choose to trek in the month of winter, then it will be challenging as you will be feeling cold and experiencing snowfall. Similarly, if you are planning your trek in summer then it includes monsoon where the rainfall makes your route muddy and slippery. But if you are an adventurous trekker then Khopra is the best spot to find adventures.

Here are some details related to months if you are planning a Trek:

  • March to May: If you are planning a trek between these seasons then it is easy. As these months fall under spring you will get a stunning view of mountains. Between these seasons you will experience low rainfall along with a mild climate. So, the months between March to May are perfect. As the trekking months start from March you will feel cold in the upper regions as the climate will fall from 5° C to 14° C. If you are a nature lover, then you will have a wonderful time in the lower regions temperature is warmer. 
  • June to August: Between these seasons the temperature in Nepal will be high as it falls under summer. This increases the temperature of trekking regions. In Summer, there is a high chance of rainfall where the routes will be muddy, wet, and slippery which can be high risk. Between these months’ the monsoon usually starts after June. The temperature of Khopra will be slightly high and go up to 15° C to 27° C. If you are planning your trek during this season, then you will have a great time witnessing the mountains and clear sky. Due to rainfall, you can experience greenery and different wildflowers. 
  • September to November: Among all the seasons trekking between September to November is the greatest season of the year. Between these months you will witness a large number of trekkers along your route. In Khopra Ridge there is a moderate temperature where you can enjoy the daylight with mountains and night with stars along with mild wind and clear sky. You will witness 20° C in high altitudes whereas at night the temperature will fall to 5° C. As the monsoon is over you will be enjoying the clean environment. Rather than trekking, you can enjoy the two major festivals “Dashain and Tihar”. You will have a wonderful time in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and other parts of Nepal which includes a festive mood towards your trek.
  • December to February: During these months the trekking spots in Nepal are unpopular compared to other seasons as the country will fall under winter where many places will be covered with snow and heavy snowfall. The temperature between these months will be -5° C. Winter will start in December and continue will the start of February. So, I would recommend that if you are planning a trek between these seasons then postpone it after February because the temperature will get high. The positive point of trekking in winter is you will get a stunning view of snowcapped mountains and experience snowfall.

Khopra Ridge Trek Cost

If you are planning to go on a trek to Khopra Ridge, then it will cost you around $650+ to $898+ per person. You will find various packages expensive than this as well as cheaper than this but if you choose the package between the mentioned price range then you will find everything including the permits and the fees. You can get various agencies in the county as well as websites that will charge you accordingly but if you contact us for your trek then will provide you with a perfect package according to your time and demand as you can provide us with your customized itinerary through which we will be providing you the cost list.