| Trip code | |
| Package name | Khopra Danda Trek |
| Duration | 12 |
| Max. elevation | 3660 m |
| Level | Moderate |
| Transportation | Toursit Bus/ Private Jeep |
| Accomodation | Included |
| Starts at | Kathmandu |
| Ends at | Kathmandu |
| Trip route | |
| Cost | USD 0 per person |
The Khopra Danda trek, also known as the Khopra Ridge trek, is among the most beautiful treks in the country, and it is one of the best treks in the region. For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path alternative, this trail delivers a deeply authentic Nepalese trekking experience. The path will lead you through the most scenic tracks through the traditional settlements of Swanta Nepal and Dobato Nepal, where you will find nature, beautiful vegetation and high mountains. This trek is an alternative to a typical, busy Nepal trek, dubbed the Kopra Ridge trek or the Khopra Hill trek.
Naturally, the area is also rich in beauty, with breathtaking vistas of the majestic peaks such as Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Nilgiri, and others. As you adjust to the Khopra Danda altitude, the sweeping landscapes of Khopra Ridge, Nepal gracefully unfold around you. You have probably never seen the famous Khopra Ridge (at an impressive altitude of 3,660 meters), which stands up to the sapphire waters of Khayer (Khair) Lake. The additional trek to Khopra Khayar Lake will definitely make your Khopra Danda Nepal experience magical.
Khopra Danda is a 12-day trek that begins in the busy capital city of Kathmandu, followed by a short but beautiful flight to the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara. Then, a lovely drive to Kimche. Along the way, the passing scenery- vibrant mustard fields, terraced rice paddies, and lush vegetation under clear blue skies sets a peaceful tone for the adventure ahead.
We start our trek when we start walking to Kimche; here you will see a true picture of the life of local communities. It is a taste of the rich traditions of remote mountain villages, which is the real essence of Himalayan trekking! Ultimately, the trail will lead you to the renowned Gurung village of Ghandruk, as you make your way through the area. The mountains are truly alive here – meet you face to face with breathtaking, up-close views of Mt. Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and Mt. Hiunchuli.
The trail also leads us to the famous Poon Hill for its spectacular sunrises over the magical Himalayan landscapes. The natural vistas get even more dramatic as we move away from the main trails and up to Khopra Ridge. Jaw-dropping views await you over the majestic peaks, with a view down to the world's deepest gorge, the Kali Gandaki.
It's as though you stepped into the picture, in a living frame set against the backdrop of an amazing Himalayan tapestry. A highlight of the tour is the walk from the ridge to the holy Khayer (Khair) lake. Dusk brings a magic to the sapphire lake at the foot of the ethereal Fang Mountain and its surrounding peaks. It's a moderate route and fairly new, so it's decent for beginners but is great for those looking for a rewarding backpacking experience.
It's all about sweeping mountain views for you, but you need something a bit different? We have some great alternatives for you! If you're on a shorter time budget, the classic Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek provides a comparably scenic perspective on seeing the viewpoints.
For those who prefer to experience the Himalayas up close and personal, however, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek offers a more immersive experience, placing you in the heart of Himalayan sanctuary, right in front of the 10th highest peak in the world.
If you're another explorer who enjoys the more private, off-the-beaten-path atmosphere of Khopra, then our Mohare Danda Trek or our spectacular Mardi Himal Trek are for you. In case you are planning to trek to high-altitude alpine regions, then the exhilarating trek to the Tilicho Lake is an absolute must.
When planning a Khopra Ridge or Khopra Danda trek, it is essential to look for an operator with strong local roots in Pokhara or Kathmandu and on-the-ground ties to lodge managers in Swanta and Chhistibang. The best packages offer seamless, end-to-end service and personalized logistics, handling permit requirements like your Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Whether you want an affordable 7-day itinerary or a 10-day route blending the classic Annapurna foothills, a good operator will let you customize the trip based on your preferred duration and whether you want to include Khayar Lake or stick strictly to the ridge.
Majestic Trails Nepal is an emerging trekking company with real guiding experience and professionalism that stands out for delivering exactly this level of service. Highly rated by independent trekkers for their dedicated community lodge itineraries, they provide expert, licensed, English-speaking guides who prioritize high-altitude safety.
If you are craving untouched alpine trails, panoramic Himalayan sunrises, and authentic community lodges, the Khopra Ridge await.
Please come with us on this amazing 12-day journey! The Khopra Ridge Trek is a perfect mix of stunning scenery from the Annapurna region and people-less, less commercial. If you are seeking a tranquil and serene hike in the backcountry of remote mountain areas where you can immerse yourself in nature, then this hike is for you.
Book your trip package to Khopra Danda for 2026/27 with Majestic Trails Nepal.
On this day, you'll arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport. One of our staff members will pick you up from the airport and transfer you to the hotel. You can then rest well at the hotel and get ready for the programs.
Start your day with breakfast and prepare to leave for Pokhara. Travel by bus and enjoy the scenic countryside of Nepal along the way. Witness hills, mountain views, villages, farms, and rivers. If you have energy left, take a leisurely evening stroll around the lakeside city.
Due to ongoing road expansion projects and severe monsoon damage along the Prithvi Highway, the journey between Kathmandu and Pokhara now takes approximately 8-9 hours instead of the usual 6-7 hours. Recently, a massive landslide at the Krishnabhir section completely severed the highway, requiring vehicles to carefully navigate narrow, temporary tracks while crews work day and night to stabilize the fragile slope. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused by the resulting traffic congestion and increased dust during this period, and we greatly appreciate your patience and understanding as these essential infrastructure repairs continue.
If you prefer not to drive, you have the option of taking a domestic flight to/from Pokhara. The flight takes only 25 minutes, but there is an additional cost of USD 115.00 per person for one way flight. However, it's worth noting that flight delays and cancellations are common, especially during the summer and winter seasons.
From Pokhara, we'll smoothly drive to Kimche before embarking on a picturesque hike to Ghandruk.
The village, adorned with untouched traditional houses, offers stunning views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre peaks. Immerse yourself in the charm of Ghandruk as we explore its rich cultural heritage. Prepare for an unforgettable journey through this serene region.
Embark on a captivating journey from the idyllic village of Ghandruk, ascending through the enchanting Deurali and traversing forests adorned with blooming rhododendron flowers. As you tread over a small pass, you'll be rewarded with the sight of Tadapani, a charming settlement nestled amidst nature's tranquility. The trekking trail unravels a breathtaking panorama, inviting you to immerse yourself in its untouched beauty.
Experience the verdant explosion of rhododendron blossoms during spring, as their vibrant canopy transforms the trail into a floral paradise.
Allow yourself to be embraced by nature's serenity, etching indelible memories amidst the resplendent rhododendron-laden landscapes.
From Tadapani, we traverse a lesser-known path through lush rhododendron and oak forests. Along the way, we encounter picturesque villages, diverse plant and animal life, and ancient trees. After a brief climb and descent, we trek on a more challenging ascent to reach the Dobato lodges. The journey offers stunning views and a rewarding experience in the heart of nature.
Experience the breathtaking sunrise views of Annapurna South, Machapuchare, and Dhaulagiri as you hike to Munde View Point. Take in the stunning scenery and immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere of the Himalayas.
Afterward, continue your journey to Chistibung, encountering diverse terrains and discovering unique flora and fauna along the way. Rest and connect with the friendly locals in the cozy mountain village, where you can indulge in delicious authentic cuisine.
As the day comes to a close, take a moment to reflect on the adventures you've had and appreciate the natural wonders that surround you in the Annapurna region. Lace up your boots and get ready for an extraordinary journey through captivating landscapes that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
We'll wake up to a beautiful morning at Chistibhung, savor breakfast, and continue our journey to Khopra Ridge. Following the path leading uphill, we'll slowly ascend to our destination.
Gradually, we'll reach Khopra Ridge, where we'll be awarded the majestic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, and other mountain ranges.
Today we leave Khopra Ridge and begin the long walk down to Swanta. The trail descends about 1,460m, first across open meadows with views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South, then into the forest. The final section into Swanta is steep and can be slippery, especially after rain or frost, so take it slowly and use your trekking poles.
Swanta is a quiet Magar village, known for its friendly people and community-run lodges, and the warmer air here is welcome after the cold nights on the ridge.
Optional extra day: Khayer Lake (4,660m)
Want to see the sacred Khayer Lake? Add one extra day and stay a second night at Khopra Ridge. You’ll hike to the lake at the foot of Annapurna South and back in a full day (about 8–9 hours, climbing roughly 1,000m), then continue to Swanta the following morning.
It’s a long, high, demanding day. Your guide will turn back if the weather closes in, because the upper trail is easy to lose in cloud or snow. In winter we provide crampons for the icy sections. Tell us when you book, so we can reserve the extra night at the lodge. Adding this day makes the trek 13 days.
After resting well at Swanta Village, we'll now make our way toward our next destination, Ghorepani.
We'll walk into the dense forests and enjoy the views of the breathtaking landscapes. After some hours of hiking, we'll reach the traditional village- Ghorepani. Ghorepani is a beautiful village in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Once you reach the village, you can rest well.
In the morning, we'll hike up to Poon Hill- the most popular viewpoint. From this viewpoint, we'll witness the views of Gangapurna, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhare, and Tukuche Peak.
Then, we'll trek to Banthanti and then take a drive to Pokhara. And then in Pokhara, you can rest or else take a walk by the lake.
Early morning, we'll hop on a ride from Pokhara to Kathmandu. You can enjoy the ride and watch the scenery.
A representative from Majestic Trails Nepal will take you to the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight. You will bid farewell to the stupendous turn of affairs, filled with memories and wonderful stories to tell.
Accommodations along the Khopra Danda (Ridge) Trek provide a unique experience compared to standard teahouse routes in Nepal. Operated heavily on an eco-tourism cooperative model, the lodging profits directly support local mountain communities, schools, and medical funds.
The place of Swanta, Upper Christibung and Khopra Danda has 2 to 3 lodges; each Lodge has 5 to 7 rooms, and each room has 2 to 4 beds and an excellent heater inside the dining hall. So a 6 to 10 pax group can stay in the same lodge comfortably. But sometimes has to share with other hostels if a large number in a group or if our booking is late; however, we at Majestic Trails Nepal have all the lodge owners' phone numbers in the Khayer Lake Trekking region, including Swanta, Upper Christibung and Khopra Danda. We call them early and book the rooms after confirming your trip with us.
The best seasons to trek to Khopra Ridge are spring, autumn, and early winter. The temperatures during spring and autumn remain fairly warm. Nights can be a bit cold.
Late autumn and early winter are best for stellar views of the mountains. There are no lingering monsoon clouds, and the skies remain clear. You can enjoy crystal-clear views of the mountains during this time. However, you will have to endure extreme cold if you want to trek in winter.
Trekking in summer or monsoon season for Khopra Danda is not recommended as there is incessant rainfall and the trail gets muddy. With overcast skies, it will be nearly impossible to get good views of the Himalayan Mountains.
Yes, one can trek the Khopra Danda route as a beginner, but as a beginner, you need to know something. It covers some easy places at the beginning of the trek, including short hiking trails through the forests of rhododendrons and some villages that help beginners adapt to the high terrain of Annapurna. But once you get to Khopra Ridge, the path is steep and tough, especially as you progress from Tadapani and when approaching Khopra Danda from Chistibung. The climb is somewhat demanding, but the rewards are undisputed as travellers stand to enjoy breathtaking views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountains.
First-timers should also expect to encounter changes in altitude, especially when reaching Khopra Danda, which sits at 3,660 m. Pace yourself, make sure to drink water, and listen to your body. However, with proper timing and the assistance of professional guides, first-timers can also pull through this trek and be rewarded with spectacular views.