Khopra Danda (Ridge) Trek

The Khopra Ridge trek, also known as Khopra Danda in Nepal, is a popular short-duration moderate-difficulty trek in the Annapurna region, known for its stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. It's often considered a great alternative to the more crowded Ghorepani-Poon Hill trek. The trek typically takes 8 - 12 days, with the option to visit Khayer Lake at a maximum altitude of 4500 meters. The trek is best enjoyed during the shoulder seasons of March-May and September-November.

Generally considered a moderately challenging trek requiring good physical fitness, it often includes a potential visit to the high-altitude sacred Khayer Lake (optional), making it an excellent option for trekkers seeking spectacular mountain scenery and genuine local interaction away from mass tourism.

First, the fantastic Himalayan panorama as seen from Muldai viewpoint and Poon Hill, and second, the up-close look at the Dhaulagiri from the Khopra Ridge is the biggest highlight of this trek. Enjoy panoramic vistas of iconic mountains like Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, and Nilgiri.

You will encounter untouched traditional Magar and Gurung houses/towns, and your accommodations will be at culturally developed community lodges. Contributions from figures like Mahabir Pun have helped enhance community-based tourism, creating a more genuine trekking experience. Pass through villages inhabited by Gurung and Magar communities, offering a glimpse into their culture and lifestyle.

If you are someone who wants to travel unharmed beauty with fewer crowds and discover the emerging trekking route in the Nepal Himalayas, this 12–day Khopra Ridge Trek is the perfect option for you.

Khopra Danda Trekking: Off the Beaten Path Trek Highlights

• Witness over 22 Himalayan Peaks of Nepal, including some of the highest peaks like Dhaulagiri and Annapurna I.
• Experience a less crowded, peaceful, and off-the-beaten trekking route in Nepal. Enjoy the untouched beauty and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the remote part of the Annapurna Region.
• Engage with local communities in villages like Ghandruk and Ghorepani, covered mainly by Magar and Gurung villages. Experience their warm hospitality and learn about their tradition, history, and rich cultural heritage.
• One of the highlights of this trek is a hike to Muldai Viewpoint. Get beautiful 360-degree Mountain Views, including uniquely shaped Machhapuchhre, from there.
• Spectacular views: The trek offers panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Nilgiri mountain ranges.  
• Cultural experience: The trek passes through traditional Gurung villages, providing opportunities to experience local culture and hospitality. 
• Walk into the dense forest of flowering rhododendrons forest in shades of red, pink, and white, making and enhancing your trip even more with natural beauty.
• Stay in community-run lodges. Staying in this place directly supports local development efforts. It contributes to education and healthcare, meaning a sustainable trekking experience.
• Get a chance to encounter wildlife in their natural habitat.
• The trek is accessible to beginners, offering moderate challenges balanced with breathtaking rewards, and guided support ensures a safe and enjoyable journey.
• For a more thrilling experience, choose an optional adventure to Khayer Lake at 4,500m. Get a peaceful and spiritual retreat.
• Conclude your trek with a memorable hike to view the sunrise view from the famous viewpoint, PoonHill.

How to Reach Khopra Danda from Kathmandu: A Complete Route Overview

As soon as you land in Nepal, your adventure begins! If you are not tired after your flight, you can explore, go shopping in the Thamel area, or rest in your hotel. You will leave Kathmandu early in the morning after breakfast and go to Pokhara, where you will spend the night.

On the following day, you will first take a short drive to Kimche and start your trek towards Ghandruk village. At Ghandruk, you can explore the village and visit the Gurung Cultural Museum. The next day, you walk through the lush rhododendron forests to Tadapani.

After Tadapani, there is an up-and-downhill trail. Crossing this path, you will reach the Gurung village of Isharu, where you can rest and have lunch. From Isharu, it's a steep hike to Dobato, along paths carved on the side of hills covered with stubby grasses. It is located just below the Muldai Viewpoint, one of the best viewpoints in the Annapurna Region. Dobato is a name that translates to “two ways ” in Nepali. One path leads us to Khopra, whereas another connects to the other routes in Annapurna.

You can enjoy a Sunrise hike to the Muldai Danda and savor 360-degree views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchre or Fishtail Peak, Annapurna Fang, Dhaulagiri, Hiunchuli, Gurja Himal, and Tukuche Peak.

Leaving Dobato, you head to the village of Chistibung via Bayeli. The trail, at this point, gets pretty secluded and lonely. Not many locals or trekkers use this route. To reach Chistibung, you make a steep descent into a dense forest. After spending a night at the small hamlet of Chsitibung, you continue your ascent to Khopra Ridge. It's a short but tiring hike. The trail is steep and narrow with a sheer drop.

There's only one community-run lodge at Khopra Danda. The lodge is pretty basic, but the wi-fi reception is perfect. After a hearty breakfast, you trek down to Swanta village and later hike to Ghorepani.

On your return, you will enter the Magar village and then to the famous Ghorepani Poon Hill route. Spend one night there and enjoy a beautiful sunrise view from the Poon Hill viewpoint. Slowly descend to Banthati via Nange Thanti (resting point) and end your trek after returning to Pokhara by vehicle. Your trip ends finally after you get back to Kathmandu.

Note: If you want a more exciting experience, you can add an additional day to this Khopra-12-day itinerary to hike up to Khayer Lake. The lake is at a height of approx 4500, which is more than the height of Annapurna Base Camp. But keep in mind the hike to the lake is quite difficult as you will gain an altitude above 800m. By planning and preparation, everyone can do it.

Difficulty of Khopra Ridge Trek: How hard is the Khopra Trek?

​The Khopra Ridge trek is a moderate adventure, ideal for trekkers with decent fitness and a sense of exploration. Spanning approximately 58 kilometers over 9 days, the trail meanders through rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and traditional villages, offering a rich tapestry of natural beauty and cultural immersion.​

While the daily hikes typically range from 4 to 6 hours, certain segments, particularly the ascent to Khopra Danda at 3,660 meters, present steep inclines that can be challenging. The optional side trip to Khayer Lake elevates the difficulty, involving an 8 to 9-hour round trek to an altitude of 4,600 meters. This segment demands stamina and proper acclimatization but rewards with breathtaking views of Annapurna South and surrounding peaks.​

Altitude sickness is a consideration, even though the elevations are moderate compared to other Himalayan treks. Adequate acclimatization and hydration are essential to mitigate risks. The trail is well-marked and supported by teahouses, providing comfortable rest stops and local hospitality.​

In essence, the Khopra Ridge trek offers a balanced blend of challenge and serenity, making it a compelling choice for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in Nepal's Annapurna region.

Stunning Views from Khopra Trek

The Khopra Ridge trek in Nepal offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. From Khopra Ridge, you can see majestic peaks like Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, and Nilgiri, among others. Optionally, the trek also features Khayer Lake, a sacred lake surrounded by high-altitude landscapes, adding to the scenic beauty. The trail passes through dense rhododendron forests, which are particularly vibrant and beautiful during spring (March-April), adding to the overall scenic appeal.

Why is the Khopra Danda Trek called a community trek?

The Khopra Ridge trek is called a community trek because it was designed to benefit the local Gurung and Magar communities living in the area. The trek's lodges are community-run, and the revenue generated is reinvested in local schools and health centers, promoting sustainable development and improving the livelihoods of the people living along the trail.

The Khopra Ridge trek is an eco-trail in the Annapurna region, created to uplift the economic status of local communities. Trekkers stay in community-run lodges, ensuring that a portion of the revenue generated from tourism directly benefits the local population. The income generated from the trek is used to fund local initiatives like schools and health centers, promoting sustainable development and empowering the communities. 

The trek was initiated by Mahabir Pun, known for bringing the internet to rural Nepal, with the goal of creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for the local communities.

Highest Point of Kopra Trek

The highest point on the Khopra Ridge trek is Khopra Danda, located at an altitude of 3,660 meters (12,008 feet). While Khayer Lake, an optional side trip, reaches 4,500 meters (14,764 feet), the main trek's highest point is Khopra Danda.

Khopra Ridge Trek Distance

The total distance of the Khopra Ridge trek is generally considered to be around 50-58 km. The trek itself to Khopra Ridge, from Chistibung, is about 5 km. The entire trek from Kathmandu to Khopra Ridge and back involves multiple stages and can range from 50 to 120 km, depending on the chosen route.

Best Time for Khopra Ridge Trekking in Nepal

The best time for the Khopra Ridge trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer the most favorable weather with clear skies, moderate temperatures, and the fewest chances of rain or snow.

• Spring (March-May) is a popular time for trekking in Nepal, as the rhododendron forests are in bloom, and the weather is generally mild and dry.
• Autumn (September-November): Similar to spring, autumn offers clear skies and pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for trekking. 
• Monsoon (June-August): The monsoon season is generally not recommended for trekking due to heavy rainfall, muddy trails, and limited visibility. While some experienced trekkers enjoy the lush greenery and wildflowers during this season, it's generally not recommended due to potential rain, slippery trails, and the possibility of landslides.
• Winter (December-February): Winter trekking is possible, but the weather can be very cold, and the trails may be snow-covered, requiring experienced guides and appropriate gear. While some adventurous trekkers venture out in winter, the weather can be harsh, with snow and freezing temperatures.

Khopra Danda Alternatives: Explore Short, Long, Luxury, and Offbeat Treks

Looking for more. Not sure if Khopra Ridge is the right fit? Annapurna Region offers everything for the trekkers, from off-the-beaten treks, short and long, and challenging to luxury.

There are short treks like Mardi, Annapurna Panorama, and the short Annapurna Hike. If you are looking for longer treks, check out our Classis Annapurna Circuit or Annapurna Sanctuary.

If you feel the need to explore more trekking routes with off-the-beaten paths, like Khopra Ridge, you can try our Mohare Danda or the Tilicho Lake Trek.

For those who want premium-level comfort and luxury, Annapurna Luxury Trek will be a great package.