An incredible hike with an amazing group of people. Badri managed to get us in and out of Lukla on days when we thought flights may not be possible and he tried his very best to accommodate the needs of the group. The team of porters supporting Karen Darke were out of this world and did an incredible job, with big smiles. Wonderful people. The trek itself was incredible and we had fantastic weather during the whole trip. Although the ‘B Team’ snail ed it, we had an excellent adventure thanks to Badri and his very supportive team.
Travel Nepal
Himalayas Treks Pvt. Ltd.
Khopra Danda Trek: The Ultimate 11-Day Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure
The Khopra Danda Trek is a peaceful 11-day off-the-beaten-path trekking package in Nepal that takes you into the quieter side of the Annapurna region. Also known as the Khopra Ridge Trek or Khopra Khayer Lake Trek, this journey is perfect for trekkers who want panoramic Himalayan views, community lodges, traditional villages, rhododendron forests, peaceful ridges, and fewer crowds than the popular Ghorepani Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp routes.
The main viewpoint, Khopra Danda / Khopra Ridge, is commonly listed at around 3,660m, while the optional day hike to sacred Khayer Lake reaches around 4,500m–4,660m, depending on route measurement and source. Trekking route sources describe Khopra Danda as a quieter Annapurna viewpoint with excellent views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, and Khayer Lake as a sacred high-altitude lake beneath Annapurna South.
This 11-day Khopra Danda Trek begins in Kathmandu, continues to Pokhara, and then follows a beautiful trekking route through Ghandruk, Tadapani, Dobato, Mulde / Muldai Viewpoint, Chistibung, Khopra Danda, Khayer Lake, Swanta, Ghorepani, Poon Hill, and back to Pokhara. The trek combines hidden trails with classic Annapurna highlights, making it a perfect choice for travelers who want both peaceful adventure and famous Himalayan viewpoints.
The trek offers amazing views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre / Fishtail, Annapurna I, Annapurna II, and other Annapurna Himalayan peaks. The route passes through Gurung and Magar villages, forests, ridges, pasturelands, community lodges, and scenic viewpoints.
The Khopra Danda Trek – 11 Days is suitable for active beginners, couples, students, photographers, nature lovers, and travelers from the USA, Australia, Canada, Europe, Asia, and worldwide who want a guided Nepal trekking package with peaceful trails and local experts.
Why Choose Khopra Danda Trek?
The Khopra Danda Trek is one of the best hidden-gem treks in the Annapurna region. It gives trekkers a peaceful alternative to the busy Poon Hill trail while still offering wide mountain views, traditional villages, and a rewarding Himalayan trekking experience.
The main highlight of this trek is the stay at Khopra Danda, where trekkers can enjoy close views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South from a quiet ridge. The optional day hike to Khayer Lake adds a more adventurous and spiritual experience for trekkers who want to go higher into the alpine landscape.
This trek is ideal for travelers looking for:
• An 11-day Nepal trekking package
• A peaceful off-the-beaten-path trek in the Annapurna region
• A guided Khopra Danda Trek with local experts
• A quieter alternative to Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
• Close views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Nilgiri, and Machhapuchhre
• A community lodge trekking experience
• A scenic route through Ghandruk, Tadapani, Dobato, Khopra Danda, Swanta, and Ghorepani
• An optional hike to sacred Khayer Lake
• Sunrise views from Mulde Viewpoint and Poon Hill
• A trek suitable for active beginners and fit travelers
• A package for travelers from the USA, Australia, Canada, Europe, Asia, and worldwide
Khopra Danda Trek Highlights
• Trek to Khopra Danda / Khopra Ridge at around 3,660m
• Optional hike to sacred Khayer Lake at around 4,500m–4,660m
• Enjoy panoramic views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Himalayan ranges
• Visit famous Gurung village Ghandruk
• Walk through rhododendron, oak, bamboo, and alpine forest trails
• Experience peaceful community lodge accommodation
• Enjoy sunrise from Mulde / Muldai Viewpoint
• Explore Swanta village and local Magar culture
• Visit Ghorepani and enjoy sunrise from Poon Hill
• Less-crowded alternative to the classic Ghorepani Poon Hill route
• Excellent trek for photographers, nature lovers, and peaceful trekkers
• Explore Pokhara, the gateway to Annapurna trekking
Best Time for Khopra Danda Trek
The best time for the Khopra Danda Trek is spring and autumn.
Spring, from March to May, is one of the most beautiful seasons for this trek. The lower forests are colorful with blooming rhododendrons, the weather is generally comfortable, and the mountain views are often clear in the morning.
Autumn, from September to November, is the most popular trekking season in Nepal. After the monsoon, the sky is usually clearer, the air feels fresh, and the mountain views are sharp. Nepal Tourism Board lists March–May and September–November as the best seasons for the Annapurna Conservation Area.
The trek can also be done in December and February with proper warm clothing, but the higher sections around Dobato, Khopra Danda, and Khayer Lake can be cold and snowy. Monsoon season from June to August is greener and quieter, but rain, clouds, leeches, and slippery trails can affect the route.
Khopra Danda Trek Difficulty
The Khopra Danda Trek is a moderate trek. You do not need climbing experience, but you should be ready for uphill and downhill walking, forest trails, stone steps, ridge trails, and daily walking of around 4 to 7 hours.
The highest sleeping point is usually Khopra Danda / Khopra Ridge at around 3,660m, while the optional hike to Khayer Lake reaches around 4,500m–4,660m. Because the optional lake hike goes above 4,500m, trekkers should walk slowly, drink enough water, wear warm clothing, and follow the guide’s safety advice.
This trek is suitable for active beginners with preparation, but the Khayer Lake day is more challenging because it is long, high, and weather-dependent. If the weather is poor or the group condition is not suitable, the guide may recommend enjoying Khopra Ridge instead of hiking to Khayer Lake.
Khopra Danda Trek Permits
The Khopra Danda Trek lies inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, so trekkers need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit / ACAP. NTNC’s official e-permit page lists the ACAP entry fee as NRs. 3,000 for foreigners and NRs. 1,000 for SAARC nationals, tax included. The permit must be carried during the trip and shown at checkpoints when requested.
Trekkers also need a TIMS Card and licensed trekking guide arrangement under Nepal Tourism Board’s revised TIMS provision. Nepal Tourism Board states that, from March 31, 2023, specific protected-area routes require trekkers to be accompanied by a licensed trekking guide and carry a trekking-agency-issued TIMS Card.
Your trekking agency should help arrange ACAP, TIMS, guide, transportation, accommodation, and trek logistics before the journey begins.
Trip Itinerary
Outline Itinerary
- • Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
• Day 02: Drive or Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara
• Day 03: Drive to Kimche and Trek to Ghandruk
• Day 04: Trek from Ghandruk to Tadapani
• Day 05: Trek from Tadapani to Dobato
• Day 06: Sunrise Hike to Mulde Viewpoint and Trek to Chistibung
• Day 07: Trek from Chistibung to Khopra Danda
• Day 08: Hike to Khayer Lake and Return to Khopra Danda
• Day 09: Trek from Khopra Danda to Swanta Village
• Day 10: Trek from Swanta to Ghorepani and Hike to Poon Hill / Continue to Pokhara
• Day 11: Drive or Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu / Final Departure
Details Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
After your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. You can rest after your international flight and prepare for your Khopra Danda Trek.
In the evening, there will be a short trip briefing. Your guide will explain the trekking route, walking hours, accommodation, meals, permits, weather conditions, packing list, and safety information.
• Altitude: Kathmandu – 1,300m / 4,260ft
• Transfer Time: Approx. 30–45 minutes
- Lodging: Hotel in Kathmandu
- Inclusions: Welcome Dinner
Day 02: Drive or Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara
After breakfast, you will travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Pokhara is a beautiful lake city and the main gateway to Annapurna region trekking.
If you travel by road, the journey follows rivers, hills, local towns, terraced fields, and countryside landscapes. If you choose a flight, you will reach Pokhara quickly and enjoy extra time around Lakeside. After arrival, you can rest, check your trekking gear, and prepare for the walking journey.
• Altitude: Pokhara – 820m / 2,690ft
• Travel Time: Drive approx. 6–7 hours or flight approx. 25–30 minutes
- Lodging: Hotel in Pokhara
- Inclusions: Breakfast
Day 03: Drive to Kimche and Trek to Ghandruk
After breakfast in Pokhara, you will drive toward Kimche or the nearest available road point depending on road conditions. The drive passes through beautiful countryside, river valleys, local villages, and terraced fields.
From Kimche, you will begin trekking toward Ghandruk. Ghandruk is one of the most beautiful Gurung villages in the Annapurna region. The village is famous for traditional houses, local culture, mountain views, and warm hospitality. This day is a gentle introduction to the Khopra Danda Trek.
• Altitude: Ghandruk – approx. 1,940m / 6,365ft
• Trek/Drive Time: Drive approx. 2.5–3 hours; trek approx. 1.5–2.5 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 04: Trek from Ghandruk to Tadapani
After breakfast, you will trek from Ghandruk toward Tadapani. The trail climbs through forests, village paths, and peaceful mountain scenery. During the walk, you can enjoy views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, and surrounding hills.
Tadapani is a beautiful overnight stop surrounded by forest. It is also a meeting point for different Annapurna trekking routes. This day gives a nice mix of culture, nature, and mountain views.
• Altitude: Tadapani – approx. 2,630m / 8,628ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 4–5 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 05: Trek from Tadapani to Dobato
Today, you will leave the busier trail and enter a quieter section of the Khopra Danda route. The trail passes through rhododendron and oak forests, peaceful ridges, and less-crowded mountain paths.
Dobato is a quiet stop near the route to Mulde / Muldai Viewpoint. The area is known for peaceful forest surroundings, fresh mountain air, and excellent sunrise potential from the nearby viewpoint.
• Altitude: Dobato – approx. 3,420m / 11,220ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 06: Sunrise Hike to Mulde Viewpoint and Trek to Chistibung
Early in the morning, you will hike to Mulde / Muldai Viewpoint for sunrise. This viewpoint is one of the hidden highlights of the Annapurna region and offers wide views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, and other Himalayan peaks.
After enjoying the sunrise view, you will return for breakfast and continue trekking toward Chistibung. The trail passes through forests, ridges, and open landscapes. Chistibung is a peaceful overnight stop before climbing to Khopra Danda.
• Altitude: Mulde / Muldai Viewpoint – approx. 3,637m–3,638m; Chistibung – approx. 2,975m / 9,760ft
• Trek Time: Sunrise hike approx. 1.5–2 hours round trip; trek approx. 4–5 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Community Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 07: Trek from Chistibung to Khopra Danda
After breakfast, you will trek from Chistibung to Khopra Danda. The trail climbs gradually through forest and alpine pasture areas. As you move higher, the views become wider and more dramatic.
Khopra Danda is the main viewpoint of this trek. From the ridge, you can enjoy amazing views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, and the deep Kali Gandaki valley. This is one of the best places in the Annapurna region for peaceful sunset and sunrise views.
• Altitude: Khopra Danda / Khopra Ridge – approx. 3,660m / 12,008ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 3–4 hours
- Lodging: Community Lodge / Tea House
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 08: Hike to Khayer Lake and Return to Khopra Danda
Today is the most adventurous day of the Khopra Danda Trek. You will start early and hike toward Khayer Lake, a sacred high-altitude lake located below Annapurna South. The trail is long and remote, passing through alpine landscapes, rocky sections, and open mountain terrain.
Khayer Lake is considered sacred by local people and is visited by pilgrims during special religious occasions. The lake area offers a powerful mountain atmosphere with views of Annapurna South and surrounding peaks. Because the hike reaches high altitude and depends on weather, your guide will decide the safest plan for the group.
After enjoying the lake area, you will return to Khopra Danda for the night. If weather, snow, or group fitness is not suitable, the guide may arrange a shorter viewpoint hike around Khopra Ridge instead.
• Altitude: Khayer Lake – approx. 4,500m–4,660m / 14,764ft–15,289ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 7–9 hours round trip
- Lodging: Community Lodge / Tea House
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 09: Trek from Khopra Danda to Swanta Village
After breakfast, you will descend from Khopra Danda toward Swanta village. The trail passes through open ridges, forest sections, and peaceful local areas.
Swanta is a beautiful Magar village with traditional houses, terraced fields, and a quiet local lifestyle. This day gives trekkers a chance to experience rural culture after the high ridge adventure.
• Altitude: Swanta Village – approx. 2,200m / 7,218ft
• Trek Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
- Lodging: Tea House / Lodge
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10: Trek from Swanta to Ghorepani and Hike to Poon Hill / Continue to Pokhara
After breakfast, you will trek from Swanta toward Ghorepani. The trail passes through village paths, forests, and peaceful countryside scenery. Ghorepani is a famous mountain village and the main gateway to Poon Hill.
Depending on timing and group energy, you may hike to Poon Hill for afternoon views or stay in Ghorepani and hike early the next morning. For this 11-day itinerary, the guide may adjust the schedule to reach Pokhara by evening. The route then descends through Ulleri, Tikhedhunga, or Hille before driving back to Pokhara from the available road point.
This day combines the hidden Khopra route with the famous Poon Hill trail before returning to the lake city of Pokhara.
• Altitude: Ghorepani – approx. 2,860m / 9,383ft; Poon Hill – 3,210m / 10,531ft; Pokhara – 820m / 2,690ft
• Trek/Drive Time: Trek approx. 6–7 hours; drive approx. 2–3 hours depending on road point
- Lodging: Hotel in Pokhara
- Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 11: Drive or Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu / Final Departure
After breakfast, you will return from Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus, private vehicle, or flight. If your international flight is later in the evening, airport transfer can be arranged after arrival in Kathmandu. If your flight is early or you want a relaxed ending, one extra night in Kathmandu is recommended.
Your Khopra Danda Trek – 11 Days ends with beautiful memories of Khopra Ridge, Khayer Lake, Ghandruk, Swanta village, Ghorepani, Poon Hill, community lodges, and panoramic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.
• Altitude: Kathmandu – 1,300m / 4,260ft
• Travel Time: Drive approx. 6–7 hours or flight approx. 25–30 minutes
- Lodging: Not Included unless extra night is booked
- Inclusions: Breakfast
Cost Details
Cost Includes
• Airport arrival and departure transfer
• Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu
• Hotel accommodation in Pokhara
• Tea house / community lodge accommodation during the trek
• Breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara
• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during trekking days
• Licensed trekking guide
• Trekking staff support as per group size
• Porter support as per package policy
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit assistance
• TIMS Card assistance as per current rules
• Ground transportation as per itinerary
• Pokhara to trek starting point transfer
• Trek ending point to Pokhara transfer
• Basic first aid support
• Community lodge route support
• Farewell or completion dinner as per package policy
• Government taxes and official service charges as per package policy
Cost Excludes
• International airfare
• Nepal visa fee
• Travel insurance
• Personal trekking equipment
• Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara unless mentioned
• Drinks, snacks, hot shower, Wi-Fi, battery charging, and personal expenses during trek
• Tips for guide, porter, and trekking staff
• Extra hotel nights caused by early arrival, late departure, road delay, weather condition, or itinerary change
• Additional cost caused by landslide, snow, political strike, road blockage, flight delay, or natural events
• Emergency rescue, medical treatment, helicopter evacuation, or insurance claim cost
• Any cost caused by rerouting due to snow, weather, or trail closure
• Any cost not mentioned in the Cost Includes section
FAQ
Khopra Danda Trek
Is Khopra Danda Trek good for beginners?
Yes, the Khopra Danda Trek is suitable for active beginners with good fitness and preparation. You do not need climbing experience, but you should be ready for uphill and downhill walking, forest trails, ridge walking, and daily trekking of around 4 to 7 hours.
How many days is this Khopra Danda Trek package?
This is an 11-day Khopra Danda Trek package including arrival in Kathmandu, travel to Pokhara, trekking days, Khopra Danda, optional Khayer Lake hike, Ghorepani, Poon Hill, and return to Kathmandu.
How high is Khopra Danda?
Khopra Danda / Khopra Ridge is commonly listed at around 3,660 meters / 12,008 feet above sea level.
How high is Khayer Lake?
Khayer Lake is commonly listed around 4,500m–4,660m, depending on source and route measurement. It is a sacred lake below Annapurna South and is usually visited as a long day hike from Khopra Danda.
What is the best time for Khopra Danda Trek?
The best time for Khopra Danda Trek is spring from March to May and autumn from September to November. Spring is beautiful for rhododendron flowers, while autumn is popular for clear mountain views.
What mountains can I see during Khopra Danda Trek?
You can see Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre / Fishtail, Annapurna I, Annapurna II, and other Himalayan peaks depending on weather and viewpoint.
Is Khopra Danda Trek difficult?
The Khopra Danda Trek is moderate. The main route to Khopra Danda is suitable for fit trekkers, but the optional Khayer Lake hike is more difficult because it is long, high, and weather-dependent.
Do I need permits for Khopra Danda Trek?
Yes. Trekkers need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit / ACAP and TIMS Card. NTNC lists the ACAP entry fee as NRs. 3,000 for foreigners and NRs. 1,000 for SAARC nationals, tax included.
Do I need a guide for Khopra Danda Trek?
Yes, using a licensed trekking guide is recommended and is required under Nepal Tourism Board’s revised TIMS provision for specific protected-area trekking routes. A guide also helps with route finding, lodge coordination, safety, weather decisions, and the Khayer Lake hike.
What kind of accommodation is available during the trek?
Accommodation during the trek is mainly in local tea houses and community lodges. Facilities are basic but comfortable. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, accommodation is arranged in hotels.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Your insurance should cover trekking, medical treatment, emergency rescue, flight delays, and helicopter evacuation if needed.
Can travelers from USA, Australia, Canada, and Europe book this trek?
Yes. Travelers from the USA, Australia, Canada, Europe, Asia, and worldwide can book this Khopra Danda Trek as a private guided package or group joining package.
Can I book a private Khopra Danda Trek?
Yes. This package can be arranged as a private guided trek depending on your travel date, budget, fitness level, and group size.
Can I customize this 11-day Khopra Danda Trek?
Yes. The itinerary can be customized. You can add extra days in Pokhara, make the trek slower, skip Khayer Lake, add Ghorepani Poon Hill, combine with Mardi Himal, or extend the route toward Mohare Danda.
Cost & Date
| Departure Date | Duration | Availability | Cost | Booking |
|---|
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Client Reviews
Mitchedberg
Vicky S
Date of experience: March 2025
Clare B
Date of experience: March 2025
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USD 800Per Person
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An amazing experience – went trekking with 14 others in March / April 2025 and had a wonderful time. A big thank you to Badri and his crew for taking care of every logistical detail; flights, hotels, transportation in Kathmandu, transportation to and from the airport, money exchanges, restaurant reservations, sightseeing, optimal route pacing, gear transportation, and 100 other small details that would have left me flummoxed.
He and his team allow for a trek that’s as simplified as possible, you can focus your energy on getting to base camp, and they do everything else. They even bring you hot towels and lemon ginger tea at the end of each day (every morning too). I can’t say enough good things about the porters / guides, they were unbelievable, true heroes of our trip. We had some very unique challenges in our group, and without expert guides and porters we would absolutely not have had the same high quality experience. When I go back to Nepal for a second trek, I’m calling Badri. Badri is the guide you want – generous, personal, and you can tell he and his team deeply care about the well-being of their clients.
One more thing: Not once, but twice, Badri got our entire group flown from Kathmandu to Lukla (and back) on days when the weather was uncooperative. Both times, there was only a brief window when the clouds cleared — just enough for a single plane to make the journey — and guess whose plane was first in line? Even more impressive: while we were waiting at the airport, Badri already had a backup helicopter option lined up, just in case the planes didn’t fly. This kind of foresight and preparation gave us total peace of mind.