Overview
The Khopra Ridge trek (also known as Khopra Danda) is a hidden gem of the Annapurna region — a quiet route walked by relatively few trekkers. Branching west from Ghorepani, famous for Poon Hill, it follows little-travelled high trails while taking in grand panoramas of Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), and Nilgiri (7,061 m).
At 3,660 m, Khopra Ridge is one of the finest viewpoints in the entire Annapurna region, yet it sees so few visitors that you can enjoy a rare and special stillness. The optional Khayer Lake (4,600 m) is a sacred glacial lake set beneath the enormous rock wall of Annapurna South — its turquoise surface against the surrounding snow peaks delivers a reward found only on this trail.
Highlights
- Panorama of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Nilgiri from Khopra Ridge (3,660 m)
- Day hike to the remote, sacred Khayer Lake (4,600 m)
- One of the quietest trails in the entire Annapurna region
- Little-walked high route from Ghorepani to Dobato
- Varied scenery of rhododendron forest and alpine meadow
- The quiet mountain time only a minor route can offer
Itinerary
Pokhara → Banthanti → Ghorepani (2,860 m)
Drive by private vehicle to Banthanti in the morning, then set off on foot up a stone-stepped trail to Ghorepani, ringed by rhododendron forest. If the weather is clear, the Dhaulagiri range may already be in view on arrival. Trek: approx. 2–3 hrs.
Ghorepani → Deurali → Dobato (3,350 m)
Leave the bustle of the Poon Hill area and branch onto the Khopra route. Beyond Deurali the trekkers thin out abruptly and quiet walking begins. Through rhododendron and along open ridgelines, with views of Annapurna South and the Dhaulagiri range, continue to Dobato. Trek: approx. 5–6 hrs.
Dobato → Bayeli → Chistibung → Khopra Ridge (3,660 m)
An optional short morning hike to the Mulde View Point (approx. 3,640 m) is possible. Then cross the high meadows of Bayeli to the grazing grounds of Chistibung, before climbing once more to Khopra Ridge, with Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South rising directly ahead. Trek: approx. 5–6 hrs.
Day Hike to Khayer Lake (4,600 m) → Overnight Khopra Ridge
Set out early, climbing beneath the enormous rock wall of Annapurna South toward Khayer Lake. A sacred pilgrimage site for local people, this lake is the great highlight of the Khopra trek; on a clear day the snow peaks mirror beautifully on its surface. Return to Khopra Ridge in the afternoon. Trek: approx. 8–9 hrs.
Khopra Ridge → Chistibung → Swanta Village (2,270 m)
Retrace your steps to Chistibung, then descend through deep forest to Swanta Village. Among its terraced fields and traditional houses you can glimpse the simple, unhurried life of the mountains. Trek: approx. 5–6 hrs.
Swanta Village → Road → Pokhara
Descend through hillside settlements to the road head, then transfer to a private vehicle and return to Pokhara along the Beni valley. Trek: approx. 3–4 hrs · Drive: approx. 3–4 hrs.
Includes & Excludes
✓ Included
- All accommodation (teahouse & community lodge)
- All meals on trek
- Licensed guide (English- or Japanese-speaking)
- Porter (1 per 2 trekkers)
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area) entry fee
- Private vehicle (Pokhara ⇔ trek start / end points)
- First-aid kit
- Government taxes
✕ Excluded
- International & domestic flights
- Nepal visa fees
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Personal trekking gear
- Tips for guide and porter
- Snacks other than meals and drinks
- Paid lodge showers, charging & WiFi
- Pokhara / Kathmandu hotel
Trek Photos
Cancellation Policy
| Notice Period | Refund |
|---|---|
| 60 days or more | 90% refunded |
| 45 – 59 days | 75% refunded |
| 30 – 44 days | 50% refunded |
| 15 – 29 days | 25% refunded |
| 14 days or fewer | No refund |
| No show | No refund |