Khopra Danda Trek
Khopra Danda Trek
The Khopra Ridge Khayer Lake trek is one of least explored trekking regions in Nepal. It is located to the south of Annapurna Ranges and is often compared with the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek. Mt. Khopra Danda is marginally higher at 3,640m, while Poon Hill is 3,210m. Khopra Danda may offer marginally better views than Poon Hill due to it being higher.
Some of the mountains seen from Khopra Danda are: Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m), Annapurna I (8091m), Nilgiri (7061m), Bahrashikhar (7,647 meters), Annapurna South (7,219 meters), Annapurna II (7,937 meters) and other massive mountains. Khayer Lake lies at an altitude of 4,660 meters.
In the early hours you will head to the renowned viewpoint of Poon Hill (3210m) where you can observe the sunrise over the neighboring snow-covered mountains. The trail passes through lush green forests with beautiful red/pink/white rhododendrons that make you take out your camera. The Poon Hill section of this trek is the most popular trek in the Annapurna region.
The trail heading to Khopra Ridge passes through thick forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron. Along the trail you have numerous views of the Himalayan Mountains. At lower altitudes you will pass numerous terraced farmlands and witness various cultures, such as Magar and Gurung in their respective villages. There are a number of lodges and tea houses on Khopra Ridge where we can stop for a break and get to know the locals.
This trekking route is less traveled, quieter and more peaceful than other more popular treks. This trek is ideally suited for families whose sole endeavor is to observe first-hand the magnificent mountain views without having to acclimatize before heading to higher elevations.
Sherpa Teams has an excellent reputation within Nepal and overseas. They will take care of all logistics, including permits, meals and accommodation on the trek.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Arrival at Kathmandu & transfer to hotel (1,350m)
Upon arrival at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be met by a Sherpa Expedition & Trekking representative, and taken to your hotel. After checking in at the hotel, you will be briefed on what to expect on your trek to Khopra Danda Via Mohare Hill.
Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (8,50m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Our journey begins with a 6-7 hour drive toward the Pokhara Valley and its beautiful Phewa Tal (lake) and then checking in to your hotel close to Phewa Tal. There is plenty to see and do along Lakeside with its many shops, bars and restaurants to choose from.
Day 3 : Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul (1,070m) & trek to Purna Gaun (1,780m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
After a one hour drive, we arrive at Nayapul where our trek begins. From Nayapul we head in a westerly direction crossing a suspension bridge over the Modi Khola (rIver) and continue along the trail until we reach Deupur village. Continuing along an undulating trail we finally reach today’s destination at Purna Gaun where we stay the night.
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 4 : Trek from Purna Gaun to Lespar Village (2,060m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we follow the trail from Purna Gaun and follow the trail for about one hour through several villages and their terraced fields prior to entering a forest and then reach Lespar where we stay the night.
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 5 : Trek from Lespar to Nangi Village (2,260m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Our trek today begins with a steep climb up hills and through the forest up to Nangi Village. In order to become a learning center it is now equipped with wireless internet introduced to the area by the Magar - Mr. Mahabir Pun. It boasts of having a secondary school and a paper manufacturing cottage industry which is worth a visit. The Dhaulagiri Massif is visible from the village where we will stay the night.
Day 6 : Trek from Nangi Village to Mohare Danda (3,300m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we climb uphill to Mohare Danda through a dense forest. Mohare Danda offers panoramic vies of the majestic Annapurna mountain ranges. Tonight we stay at Mohare Danda.
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 7 : Trek from Mohare Danda to Swanta Village (2,200m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
This morning we get up early in order to capture the morning rays reflecting off the snow-covered peaks. After admiring the beautiful views we descend along a trail surrounded by rhododendron, pine, oak, and juniper trees. The birdlife here is amazing and a good way to start the day. We head towards the famous location of Poon Hill where we have 360-degree views of the Annapurna Massif. This is a photographer’s dream location, especially on sunrise as the light reflects off the snow-clad mountains. From Poon Hill, we head down to Ghorepani for about two hours and stop here for lunch. From Ghorepani we continue downhill through more forest until we reach After lunch, we continue walking down through the forest to Chitre Village (2350m) and then continue on a new trail to a new path to Santa Village (2260m) - the beginning of the trail to the Khopra.
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 8 : Trek from Swanta to Chhsitibang (3,020m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Immediately after leaving Swanta we enter the forest and walk through a very cool and pleasant path, hearing the sound of the river and the birds singing. After two hours, we cross a stream and we have lunch at the Kharka before we start to climb the steep Khopra Hill for another one and a half to two hours, reaching Chhsitibang at 3020 m. We will stay here the night in this wooded area of rhododendron and oak trees. This is a good place to relax.
. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 9 : Trek from Chhsitibang to Khopra Danda (3,660m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today it is an uphill climb to Khopra Ridge (3660m) where we will spend the night. Khopra has internet and phone facilities available.
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 10 : Khopra Danda (Ridge 3660m) to Dobato (3,350m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today’s trek takes us to Dobato, in springtime we can take the high trail or alternatively head straight up on a trail above Khopra which offers spectacular views of the Kali Gandaki Valley through rhododendron forests and with amazing views along the way of the snow-capped mountains. If it is wet caution must be exercised as the trail can be slippery. If there is bad weather we will take the lower trail that is safer.
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 11 : Trek from Dobato (3350m) to Ghandruk (2,012m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
After leaving the lodge in Dobato we take the trail through the forest until we come to a junction that takes us to Tatopani well known for its thermal springs situated right next to the river. From Tatopani, we have an easy trek passing through the rhododendron forest before reaching Ghandruk. Passing through the forest you may see Langur monkeys frolicking in the trees.
Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 12 : Trek from Ghandruk to Nayapul then drive to Pokhara; Duration: 6-7 hours.
Our trek today takes us to Nayapul and along the way offers awesome views towards the west. Once we arrive at Nayapul we will drive to Pokhara. We will stay the night in Pokhara where you will have the chance to wander along Phew Tal (lake) and watch the sunset, or maybe stroll along the road with its many shops.
Breakfast included..
Day 13 : Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu; Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we head back to Kathmandu, either by bus or private vehicle depending on the size of the group. Upon arrival at Kathmandu, you will be taken to your respective hotels situated close to the main tourist hub – Thamel.
Day 14 : International departure from Kathmandu Airport.
Our journey in Nepal comes to an end today! A Sherpa Expedition and Trekking representative will drop us off at the airport approximately 3 hours before our scheduled flight.
SERVICES
Cost Included In Your Package
- International Airport pick-up and drop by car.
- Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner/ the main course) during the trek in the mountain.
- Two nights’ standard accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu in a twin-sharing basis including 2 breakfasts.
- 2 nights’ standard accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Pokhara in a twin-sharing basis including 2 breakfasts.
- An experienced and Knowledgeable English-speaking Govt. registered trekking guide.
- Strong, helpful Sherpa porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment, his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
- All Food, Accommodation, Insurance, and transportation for porter and guide.
- Annapurna conservation area permit
- TIMS card (Trekking Information Management System)
- Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag and walking poles (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after trip completed).
- Trekking lodge (Tea House) throughout the trek.
- Assistant guide group size of more than 8 people in a group.
- Transportation from Kathmandu-Pokhara-Nayapul-Pokhara-Kathmandu by bus.
- Seasonal fresh fruits every day
- Appreciation of certificate after the successful trek
- Sherpa Teams company T-shirt
- Emergency rescue operation assistance in arranging in case of complex health condition (funded by travel insurance)
- All government, Local taxes/ vat and official Expenses
Cost Excludes
- Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $30 USD for 15-day, $50 USD for 30 Days, and $125 USD for 90 Days visa.
- Extra drinks as alcoholic & non-alcoholic such as Fanta, tea, coffee, hot water, Coca-cola, sprite, water, beer, etc.
- Additional cost by out of management control due to the landscape, weather condition, illness, change of government policies, strikes, and physical condition, etc.
- Personal expenses such as snacks, laundry, telephone, WIFI, hot shower, etc at tea houses on a trek.
- Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Travel insurance has to cover emergency rescue evacuation from the high-altitude
- Personal trekking equipment for this trek
- Tipping ( traditional way and expected by guides and staff)
- Any other expenses that are not mentioned in the Price Include section of this trek.
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
- Sleeping Bag (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Duffel Bag (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Fleece jacket or pullover
- Waterproof windbreaker or windcheater
- Thermal underclothes
- Rain poncho
- Down jacket (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Fleece or wool trousers
- Sun hat or scarf
- Trekking pants (two pairs)
- Mittens or woolen gloves
- Hiking socks (several pairs)
- Moisture-wicking shirts, including t-shirts
- Trekking shoes or boots with spare laces
- Flip-flops or sandals for relaxing in the evenings
- Underwear (several pairs)
- Swimsuit or swimming costume
- Sunglasses
- Headlamp or flashlight/torch
- Sleeping bag (Sherpa Teams can provide this for you)
- Trekking poles (if desired)
- Hiking backpack with a capacity of at least 40 liters
- Small lock for your backpack
- Reusable water bottles (at least two liters)
- Water purification tablets or filtration device
- Wash towel
- Basic first aid kit
Toiletries (tissues, toilet paper, moisturizer, lip balm, sunscreen, sanitary pads, hand sanitizer, nail clippers, a small mirror, toothbrush, toothpaste, glasses, contacts, etc.)
GOOD TO KNOW
Accommodation
You will be accommodated in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu. During the trek, we will be staying at lodges/ teahouses. You may find comfort and better quality teahouses - having attached bathroom at lower levels- until you reach higher elevations, where the accommodation is more basic with bare necessities.
Meals during the trek
In Kathmandu, your hotel includes breakfast, whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek. A staple food of these regions is potatoes, oats, buckwheat, Sherpa stew and Tibetan bread. Sherpa’s’ started farming potatoes when the first seeds were introduced to the region in the early 90s. There is a limited choice of food at higher elevations and except many potato dishes. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates – an excellent source of energy needed at high altitudes.
Transportation
We use a private car for sightseeing and for the airport to hotel pick and drop off. We use public transportation or local buses during the trek.
Physical fitness
This can be a challenging trek where you often have to walk 6-7 hours a day. You don’t need past experience of hiking or trekking but if you have done any kind of trekking activities then it is always a plus! We have met people from all walks of life, shapes and sizes who have completed the trek. The only difficult part is when altitude sickness strikes and the effect that it can have on your body. Before leaving for Nepal it is good if you can prepare yourself physically by increasing your stamina and oxygen intake.
Remember – The better prepared – the more enjoyable your trek!
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FAQS
What is the Khopra Danda Trek?
The Khopra Danda Trek is a lesser-known trekking route located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience, with breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
How long is the Khopra Danda Trek?
The Khopra Danda Trek can be completed in 7-14 days, depending on your pace and itinerary. The total distance covered is approximately 55-60 kilometers.
What is the best time to do the Khopra Danda Trek?
The best time to do the Khopra Danda Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer clear skies, mild temperatures, and favorable weather conditions.
Is prior trekking experience required for the Khopra Danda Trek?
Prior trekking experience is not mandatory for the Khopra Danda Trek. However, it is recommended to have a reasonable level of fitness and some hiking experience, as the trek involves steep ascents and descents.
What is the difficulty level of the Khopra Danda Trek?
The Khopra Danda Trek is considered a moderate trek. It involves some challenging sections, including steep uphill climbs and rocky trails. Good physical fitness and proper acclimatization are important for a successful trek.
Are permits required for the Khopra Danda Trek?
Yes, permits are required for the Khopra Danda Trek. You will need to obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card. These can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Are there teahouses or lodges along the Khopra Danda Trek route?
Teahouses and lodges are available along the Khopra Danda Trek route, but they are limited compared to other popular treks in Nepal. Basic accommodation and meals are provided, but it is advisable to carry some cash as ATM facilities may not be available in remote areas.
What should I pack for the Khopra Danda Trek?
Some essential items to pack for the Khopra Danda Trek include sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing layers, a good quality sleeping bag, a waterproof jacket, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a first aid kit, and a water bottle. It is also recommended to carry some snacks and energy bars.
Is altitude sickness a concern on the Khopra Danda Trek?
Altitude sickness can be a concern on the Khopra Danda Trek, as you will be reaching elevations above 3,500 meters. Proper acclimatization, staying hydrated, and listening to your body are important to prevent altitude-related issues.
Are there any side trips or optional extensions on the Khopra Danda Trek?
Yes, there are optional side trips and extensions available on the Khopra Danda Trek. One popular extension is the visit to Khayer Lake, a pristine glacial lake located at a higher altitude. This can be added to the main Khopra Danda Trek itinerary.
Can I hire a guide or porter for the Khopra Danda Trek?
Yes, hiring a guide or porter for the Khopra Danda Trek is possible and recommended, especially if you are new to trekking or prefer additional assistance. A guide can provide valuable information about the route, culture, and ensure your safety, while a porter can carry your heavy backpack.
Is drinking water easily available on the Khopra Danda Trek?
Drinking water is easily available on the Khopra Danda Trek. You can refill your water bottles at teahouses along the route, but it is recommended to use water purification tablets or a water filter to ensure the water is safe to drink.
Are there any communication facilities available on the Khopra Danda Trek?
Communication facilities, such as Wi-Fi and mobile network coverage, may be limited or unavailable in some parts of the Khopra Danda Trek. It is advisable to inform your loved ones beforehand and carry a local SIM card for emergency communication.
Can I do the Khopra Danda Trek solo?
Yes, you can do the Khopra Danda Trek solo. However, it is always safer to have a trekking partner or join a group, especially if you are a first-time trekker. It is also recommended to inform the local authorities or your hotel about your trekking plans.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
100%
Based On 19 Reviews
Ivan Marinov
United Kingdom
August 29, 2024
Outstanding Khopra Ridge Trek
Sherpa Expedition provided an outstanding trekking experience on the Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake route. Their team’s professionalism and support were evident throughout the journey. Our guide was experienced and engaging, making the trek both enjoyable and informative. The route was well-managed, with cozy lodgings and tasty meals. The views from Khopra Ridge and the serene beauty of Khayer Lake were highlights of the trek. Sherpa Expedition’s commitment to providing a top-quality experience ensured a memorable adventure. Highly recommended for trekkers seeking a unique experience.
Carlos Garza
Australia
August 13, 2024
Amazing Khopra Ridge Trek
Our Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake trek with Sherpa Expedition was an amazing experience. The team was incredibly professional and attentive from start to finish. Our guide was knowledgeable and passionate about the region, enhancing the trek with his insights. The route was well-planned, with comfortable lodges and excellent food along the way. The views from Khopra Ridge and the serene beauty of Khayer Lake were breathtaking. Sherpa Expedition’s dedication to ensuring a memorable experience was evident throughout. Highly recommended for a unique trekking adventure!
Finn Surman
Canada
August 2, 2024
Perfect Trekking Adventure
The Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake trek with Sherpa Expedition was a perfect adventure. The team’s professionalism and care were evident from start to finish. Our guide was knowledgeable and made the trek both enjoyable and educational. The accommodations were cozy, and the meals were consistently good. The breathtaking views from Khopra Ridge and the peaceful Khayer Lake were the highlights of the trek. Sherpa Expedition’s commitment to providing an exceptional experience made this trek truly memorable. Highly recommended for a fantastic trekking adventure!
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