Khopra Ridge Community Trek : 13 Days
Drift away from the main trails of the Annapurna region and enjoy walking on the solitary trails of the Khopra ridge trek
The Khopra Ridge trek offers a unique and less crowded experience in the Annapurna region, providing stunning views of the Himalayas, including Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Fang, and Nilgiri. The trek also includes a visit to the holy Kaire Lake, adding a spiritual and scenic dimension to the journey. Here’s an overview of the trip:
Starting Point: The trek begins in Kathmandu, where participants have the opportunity to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Travel to Pokhara: The next day involves a flight to Pokhara, followed by a drive to Syauli Bazaar, the starting point of the trek.
Off the Beaten Path: After Tadapani, the trek deviates from the main trail, leading participants along a more remote path. Accommodations during this stretch are provided in community tea-houses.
Duration: The 13-day trek offers a well-paced journey, allowing participants to savor the grandeur of Mt. Annapurna and appreciate the tranquility of the less-traveled route.
Highlights:
- Khopra Ridge Views: The trail offers panoramic views of notable peaks, including Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Fang, and Nilgiri, from the vantage point of Khopra Ridge.
- Kaire Lake: A detour from Khopra Ridge leads to the holy Kaire Lake, providing a spiritual and serene experience.
Suitability: The trek is suitable for those seeking a balance between the breathtaking landscapes of the Annapurna region and the peaceful ambiance of a less-trodden path.
Cultural Aspects: Along with natural beauty, the trek encompasses unique heritage and cultural experiences, adding depth to the overall journey.
Time Well Spent: Despite its duration, the 13-day trip promises to be a rewarding adventure, offering a diverse blend of natural wonders, cultural richness, and moments of solitude on the trail.
| Day | Itinerary | Maximum Altitude / Walking-Hiking Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 01 | Arrival in Kathmandu | 1,350m/4,429ft |
| 02 | Sightseeing in Kathmandu | 1,350m/4,429ft |
| 03 | Fly to Pokhara, drive to Syauli Bazaar, trek to Ghandruk | 1,940m/6,365ft / 3 hrs |
| 04 | Ghandruk to Tadapani | 2,700m/8,859ft / 3-4 hrs |
| 05 | Tadapani to Dobato | 3,350m/10,991ft / 4-5 hrs |
| 06 | Dobato to Upper Chistibung | 2,975m/9,761ft / 4-5 hrs |
| 07 | Trek to Khopra Ridge | 3,660m/12,008ft / 3-4 hrs |
| 08 | Rest day in Khopra Ridge: Tour of Kaire Lake | 4,500m/14,765ft / 10-11 hrs |
| 09 | Trek to Swanta Village | 2,200m/7,218ft / 5-6 hrs |
| 10 | Trek to Ulleri | 2,050m/6,726ft / 5-6 hrs |
| 11 | Trek to Naya Pul then drive to Pokhara | 827m/2,713ft / 5-6 hrs |
| 12 | Sightseeing in Pokhara then fly to Kathmandu | 1,350m/4,429ft |
| 13 | Final departure |
Day 01
Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon our arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, a representative from Ngimalaya Adventure will greet us and transfer us to our hotel. After checking in, Strolling through Thamel, a tourist hub in Kathmandu, is also an option for souvenir shopping. In the evening, a welcome dinner hosted by Ngimalaya Adventure will introduce us to excellent Nepalese cuisine, providing a glimpse into the country’s food culture. Overnight in Kathmandu.
- Maximum Altitude: 1,350m/4,429ft
- Lodging Level: Hotel
- Meals: Dinner
Day 02
Sightseeing in Kathmandu
After breakfast, we embark on a guided tour to several historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu, UNESCO World Heritage sites. The tour includes visits to Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the famous ‘Monkey Temple’ (Swayambhunath), and the Buddhist shrine (Bouddhanath), one of the largest stupas globally.
- Maximum Altitude: 1,350m/4,429ft
- Lodging Level: Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 03
Fly to Pokhara, drive to Syauli Bazaar and trek to Ghandruk
We take an early morning flight to Pokhara, enjoying breathtaking views of the Himalayas from the airplane’s right side. Upon arrival in Pokhara, known as the beautiful lake city, we are rewarded with magnificent views of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhre, and the five peaks of Annapurna. Later, we drive to Syauli Bazaar and begin our trek to Ghandruk. Ghandruk serves as a major recruitment center for Gurkha soldiers and is the hub of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project. Overnight in Ghandruk.
- Flight: 30 min
- Hiking: 3 hrs
- Driving: 2 hrs
- Maximum Altitude: 1,940m/6,365ft
- Lodging Level: Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
- Accommodation: Varies
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 04
Ghandruk to Tadapani
In Ghandruk, we enjoy astonishing views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli Mountains. Continuing upwards through Deurali and dense rhododendron forests, we reach Tadapani. Tadapani offers excellent views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, and Hiunchuli mountains. The village has many Tibetans selling souvenirs. Overnight in Tadapani.
- Hiking: 3-4 hrs
- Maximum Altitude: 2,700m/8,859ft
- Lodging Level: Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
- Accommodation: Varies
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 05
Tadapani to Dobato
Leaving the main trail, we walk in a more remote area of the Annapurna region for the next five days. The trek offers diverse flora and fauna, along with magnificent views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South. Trekking on a relatively easy trail, we reach Dobato, dominated by an excellent view of Annapurna South. Overnight in Dobato.
- Hiking: 4-5 hrs
- Maximum Altitude: 3,350m/10,991ft
- Lodging Level: Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
- Accommodation: Varies
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 06
Dobato to Upper Chistibung
After breakfast, we descend through open ground and beautiful forest to reach the pastures of Lower Chistibung. Gradually ascending through a forest, we reach Upper Chistibung, a temporary herder’s settlement. If lucky, we might spot the colorful Lophophorus (Danphe), the national bird of Nepal, and Himalayan thar on the grassy ridge high above the trail. Overnight in Upper Chistibung.
- Hiking: 4-5 hrs
- Maximum Altitude: 2,975m/9,761ft
- Lodging Level: Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
- Accommodation: Varies
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 07
Trek to Khopra Ridge
We embark on a steady climb above the tree line through alpine meadows and pastures to reach Khopra. Approaching Khopra Ridge, we see the tip of Annapurna South. Reaching Khopra, we take a short walk down Khopra Ridge to a viewpoint overlooking the Kali Gandaki river far below in this deep valley. We admire the stunning mountain panorama, including Mt. Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Annapurna South. Overnight in Khopra.
- Hiking: 3-4 hrs
- Maximum Altitude: 3,660m/12,008ft
- Lodging Level: Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
- Accommodation: Varies
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 08
Rest day in Khopra Ridge: Tour of Kaire Lake
We begin trekking around six in the morning towards Kaire Lake, offering excellent views of the Fang and surrounding mountains. Considered a sacred lake by Hindus, it is believed that bathing in the lake will help attain Nirvana. Hindu and Buddhist shrines adorn the lakeside due to the intricate relationship between Hinduism and Buddhism in Nepal. For those not walking all the way to the lake, a half-day walk from Khopra can be arranged. Packed lunch is provided. Overnight in Khopra Ridge.
- Hiking: 10-11 hrs
- Maximum Altitude: 4,500m/14,765ft
- Lodging Level: Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
- Accommodation: Varies
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 09
Trek to Swanta Village
From Khopra Ridge, we descend off the hillside and continue downhill on a steep trail. Along the way, more views of Mount Dhaulagiri provide a lovely backdrop to terraced fields and traditional houses in nearby villages. Overnight in Swanta village.
- Hiking: 5-6 hrs
- Maximum Altitude: 2,200m/7,218ft
- Lodging Level: Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
- Accommodation: Varies
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 10
Trek to Ulleri
From Swanta, we descend through village fields to a small river, taking a quick look at the local water mill. Crossing a suspension bridge, we head upwards to the village of Chittre, joining the main trekking trail at Ghorepani. After Ghorepani, we descend through a rhododendron forest to Ulleri, where we stay the night.
- Hiking: 5-6 hrs
- Maximum Altitude: 2,050m/6,726ft
- Lodging Level: Hotel/Tea House (Hotel/Teahouse)
- Accommodation: Varies
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 11
Trek to Naya Pul then drive to Pokhara
On our way to Nayapul, we enjoy the amazing hill landscape of western Nepal. Our trek ends at Nayapul, where we board our vehicle to Pokhara, the beautiful lake city. Even from the city, we are rewarded with magnificent views of the Himalayas. We check-in to our hotel and take a rest, strolling through Pokhara’s streets and enjoying the city. Overnight in Pokhara.
- Hiking: 5-6 hrs
- Driving: 1 hour
- Maximum Altitude: 827m/2,713ft
- Lodging Level: Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 12
Sightseeing in Pokhara then fly to Kathmandu
We leave our hotel early to visit the Shanti Stupa, a Buddhist Stupa with amazing views of the sunrise from the Himalayas. Continuing to explore the city’s landmarks, including Davis Falls, Shiva Cave, and the International Mountain Museum (IMM), we also do some boating in Phewa Lake. We fly to Kathmandu in the late afternoon, concluding our journey with a farewell dinner to celebrate the successful adventure. Overnight in Kathmandu.
- Flight: 30 min
- Maximum Altitude: 1,350m/4,429ft
- Lodging Level: Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 13
Final departure
Our journey in Nepal concludes today. A Ngimalaya Adventure representative will escort us to the airport approximately 3 hours before our scheduled flight, providing ample time to plan our next adventure in this wonderful country.
- Meals: Breakfast
- US $2550.00
- US $196 per day
FAQS
Khopra Ridge Community trek is a unique trek that is perfect and a great choice for a week-long trek in the land of the Himalayas. Khopra is the name of a ridge where trekkers will walk for two whole days with big mountains on either side of the ridge. It is unique in the sense of changing sceneries, mountain views and a spectacular sunrise view from the top of the ridge. You can spot up to 23 major Himalayan peaks from the top while the trail on the trek leads through alpine meadows, dense forests, and pristine villages comprising rural communities and homestays. This trek is definitely a perfect choice if you are looking for an offbeat trekking trail in Nepal amid beautiful landscapes. Some days during this trek requires more hours of walk than you can anticipate. Lodges, homestays or teahouses on the trail are very basic. As long as you are physically fit, there is nothing to worry about including acute mountain sickness (AMS). Khopra trek is a moderate grade trek that demands a good fitness level because the route has a fair share of ascends and descends.
Like most of the popular treks in Nepal, Khopra Ridge trek during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) is considered the best time around with moderate temperature and clean weather. During the hot pre-monsoon season in late May-June, things get uncomfortable and humid. The trails become muddy and slippery and the landscapes are distorted by thick fogs. Winter season during the months between mid-November and February can get really cold with heavy snowfall.
After a long day’s hike, a relaxing night of comfortable sleep is very much crucial for the next day’s walk. Keeping your comfort into account, we make sure to book the best lodge with two beds in each room and western toilet facilities wherever available. Normally, the beds are clean and comfortable with an electric blanket (upon availability) and attached bathroom for most nights. The room’s temperature is usually maintained at 10-12°C / 50-54°F.