Khopra Ridge Trek – 12 Days

The Khopra Ridge trekking is one of the lesser-known treks through the Annapurna but which still affords views of the giants: Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Nilgiri (7,061m), Bhara Shikhar (7,647m), Annapurna I (8091m), Machhapuchhre (6,997m), to name just a few.

The Khopra Ridge is located in the Annapurna Conservation Area in Nepal. We combine Khopra Ridge trek with a visit to Khayar lake, an alpine lake at the altitude of 15,750 ft above MSL.

The base camp of the Khopra Ridge Trek is Pokhara. A drive of 3 hours will take you to Syauli Bazaar. It takes another four days of trekking from Syauli Bazaar to reach Khopra Ridge through Ghandruk, Tadapani, and Dobato.

On the way Khopra Ridge Trek, you cross Muldhai viewpoint from where you get a panoramic view of the region. The trek ends at Ulleri, from where you exit to Pokhara by road. It’s a 2-3 hour journey to Pokhara from Ulleri.

The trail of Khopra ridge trek is partially moderate and partially strenuous. With enough preparations, any new trekker can accomplish the journey, though. The path to Kopra goes through dense and lush green forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron. In the meantime, you can observe the high Himalayan panoramas from various angles.

The Khopra Ridge (3,660m) is reached by a steady climb through alpine meadows and pastures and provides a fine viewpoint overlooking the Kali Gandaki River far below in the world’s deepest gorge. From the ridge, the mountains are a panorama of shimmering snow and ice. With only one long walking day (and which can be, and with a panorama on the ridge to rival any viewpoint in the Himalayas, this trek is a great way to experience the beauty of the Himalaya landscape and mountain ranges in a more tranquil and solitude manner.

Moreover, the green terraced farming lands of the lower valleys play a significant role in decorating the trail. On the route, you will see especially the Magar and the Gurung communities who have developed for themselves the identity of successful hospitality providers.

You can find tea houses for some initial days, and after that, you have to spend the remaining few days in community lodges. Staying especially at community lodges on Khopra ridge trek trail is a splendid opportunity to explore the exotic lifestyle and culture of local communities.

Khopra Ridge Trek Highlight

• Enjoy an amazing sunrise over Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna.
• Stay at a tea-house with one of Nepal’s best panoramic views.
• Descend through pastoral villages to Tatopani.
• You will walk to the Khayer Lake, a sacred pilgrim spot for Hindu people.

Khopra Ridge Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Day 2: Sightseeing to Swayambhunath, Boudha, and Patan

Day 3: Flight to Pokhara, trek to Tirkhedhunga

Day 4: Trek to Tirkhedhunga

Day 5: Trek from Tirkhedhunga to Ghorepani

Day 6: Trek from Ghorepani to Upper Chistibung

Day 7: Trek from Upper Chistibung to Khopra Danda

Day 8: Rest day in Khopra Danda, Day-trip to Khayer Lake (4660m)

Day 9: Trek from Khopra Danda to Tatopani

Day 10: Drive from Tatopani to Pokhara

Day 11: Morning flight to Kathmandu

Day 12: Departure