Khopra Danda Trek 9 Days
Khopra Danda Trek 9 Days
9 Days Short Khopra Danda Trek is One of the rarer trails of the Annapurna region with equally magnificent views of the high Himalayas peaks. The Khopra Ridge Khayer lake trek is one of the lesser-crowded treks through the Annapurna but which still Splendid views of the giants: Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m) (Seventh highest peak in the world), mt. Nilgiri (7,061m), Bhara Shikhar (7,647m), Annapurna I (8091m), Mt. Fishtail (6,997m), and other Himalayan peaks. This trek explores the Khayar Lake, considered sacred by Hindus religion, high pastures, and a temporary herder’s settlement winds its way through colorful rhododendron forests and through Tibetan-Tamang, Gurung and Magar village.
Khopra Danda Trek is reached by a steady climb through alpine meadows and pastures and provides an excellent viewpoint overlooking the Kali Gandaki River very far below in the world’s deepest gorge. From Khopra Ridge, the Himalayans are a panorama of shimmering snow and ice. Just only long walking day (and which can be, and with a panorama on the ridge to rival any viewpoint in the Himalayas, Khopra ridge trek is a great way to experience the beauty of the high Himalaya landscape and Annapurna mountains ranges in a more tranquil and solitude manner. If you're feeling up for it, option for the day hike to Khayer Lake: Hindus believe that dipping into the water here will help you achieve Nirvana. You'll also bookend your trek in Nepal's Kathmandu, and the lakeside city of Pokhara, home to the stunning Phewa Lake.
This standard Khopra Danda With Khayer Lake Trek is a 9 -day program. However, depending upon your time availability we can extend it to more days and even curtail it to 8-16 days if you are scarce of time. Please contact us if you need a custom itinerary if this standard program does not fit your vacation.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : 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 2 : Drive from Pokhara to Ghandruk (1940 M) 6,365 ft and Trek To Tadapani. (2,300m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we drive from Pokhara to Ghandruk Village and after stopping for a lunch break begin our trek to Tadapani. We continue on a trail through oak and rhododendron forests and on the way have some stunning views of Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, and Lamjung Himal.
Day 3 : Trek To Bayeli Kharka (3450 m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
You will need to get up early to enjoy the magnificent sunrise in the perpetually changing morning light. We then head out on the trail through a rhododendron forest before coming to Bayeli Kharka. You will also have some excellent views of the Annapurna Ranges along this section of the trail. From Bayeli you have a view of Mt. Dhaulagiri (the world’s 7th highest peak).
Day 4 : Trek To Khopra Danda / Ridge (3,660 m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
The first leg of our trek takes us downhill to Chhsitibang Village and then to Khopra ridge. On the trail we will likely see pheasant (Nepal’s national bird), yaks grazing in alpine meadows and Himalayan Tahr. From the ridge you will have awesome views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, South, Tukuche Peak, Dhampus Peak, Mt. Nilgiri, and other massive snow covered mountains.
Day 5 : Day Hike To Khayar Lake - Khopra Danda. Duration: 7-8 hours.
Today we follow the trail to Khayer Lake (4,600m/15,092ft). The crystal clear lake views are particularly attractive this high up in the mountains. We will then return to Khopra Ridge for the night.
Day 6 : Trek from Khopra Danda to Swanta (2270m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today will be easy-going as we trek to Swanta, famous for having its own cheese factory that you can visit and sample some of its cheeses – including yak cheeses. We will stay here tonight.
Day 7 : Trek from Swanta To Ghorepani (2,860m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we head out on the trail to Ghorepani, renowned for its mountain views – especially during the changing light at sunrise and sunset. Initially we trek to Chitre Village and then take the larger trail to Ghorepani from where we can view Mt. Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, I and other glorious snow capped peaks. Prior to sunset you may choose to take the short trek up to Poon Hill, celebrated for its stunning sunset views. Tonight we will stay at a lodge at Ghorepani.
Day 8 : Hike up to Poon Hill (3,210m) & trek to Nayapul & drive to Pokhara (8,50m) Duration: 7-8 hours.
Poon Hill has a well earned reputation for having some of the most excellent sunrise views anywhere in Nepal of the nearby Himalayan Mountains. Views of the Annapurna Ranges include: Dhaulagiri (8167m), Annapurna I (8091m), Annapurna II (7937m), Annapurna III (7855m), Annapurna IV (7525m), Annapurna South (7219m), Nilgiri (6940m), Tukuche (6920m), Varaha Shikhar (7847m) & Lamjung Himal (6931m). After a frantic photo session we will return to Ghorepani for breakfast. We will then head to Nayapul and then drive to Pokhara.
Day 9 : 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.
SERVICES
Cost included In Your Package
- Two nights’ standard twin sharing Hotel in Pokhara with breakfast.
- Kathmandu to Pokhara To Kathmandu transportation by Tourist Bus.
- Pokhara to Nayapul to Ghandruk transportation By private car/Jeep
- Best Possible Teahouse, lodge accommodation (Generally twin Sharing room)- 7 Nights
- All Standard meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
- Government License holder English Speaking Sherpa Expedition and Trekking’s experienced and qualified trek leader,(8 or above trekkers: 1 assistant guide)
- Strong, helpful Sherpa porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment, his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
- Coverage of Guides and Porters, Their meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation, flight, and other necessary equipment.
- Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag and walking poles (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after trip completed).
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) Fee.
- Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card fee.
- All government, Local taxes, and official Expenses
- Assistance in arranging rescue operation in case of complicated health condition (funded by travel insurance)
- Sherpa Expedition and Trekking’s appreciation of certificate after the successful trek
- Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) which will ensure your health during the trek.
Cost Excludes
- International flight airfare
- 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.
- Excess baggage charges (Limit is 9kg per Person)
- All Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu, before and after we start our journey
- Lunch and Dinner in Pokhara.
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu due to early arrival or late departure, early return from the trek.
- Personal expense (shopping, snacks, boil bottle water, tea, coffee, hot and cold drinks, hot shower, Alcohol, Wi-Fi, telephone call, battery re-charge fee), extra porters, etc
- Personal clothing and gear
- Travel insurance which has to cover emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation compulsory
- Tips for guide and porters (Recommended by the Culture)
- Additional costs or delays caused by out of management control, for example, landslide, weather conditions, itinerary modification due to safety concerns, illness, change of government policies, strikes, etc.
- All the costs and expenses which are not listed in "cost includes" will be counted as Excludes
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 the Manang & Mustang 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 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, also known as the Khopra Ridge Trek or Khopra Ridge Community Trek, is a lesser-known trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, as well as a chance to experience the local culture and hospitality of the Gurung and Magar communities.
How long does the Khopra Danda Trek take?
The Khopra Danda Trek usually takes around 8 to 10 days, depending on your itinerary and pace. It can be customized to fit your preferences and time constraints.
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. The weather is generally clear with mild temperatures, making it ideal for trekking. However, it is possible to do the trek during other months as well, with appropriate gear and preparations.
Is the Khopra Danda Trek difficult?
The Khopra Danda Trek is considered a moderate trek, suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers. The trail involves some steep ascents and descents, but it is not as challenging as other popular treks in the region, such as the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp.
Do I need a guide for the Khopra Danda Trek?
While it is not mandatory to have a guide for the Khopra Danda Trek, it is recommended, especially if you are not an experienced trekker or unfamiliar with the region. A guide can provide navigation assistance, help with accommodation and permits, and enhance your overall trekking experience.
What permits do I need for the Khopra Danda Trek?
To trek in the Annapurna region, you will need two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card. These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara before starting the trek.
What is the accommodation like during the Khopra Danda Trek?
Accommodation during the Khopra Danda Trek is available in teahouses or lodges along the trail. These teahouses provide basic facilities such as a bed, blankets, and meals. However, the facilities may vary, and it is advisable to carry a sleeping bag for added comfort.
Is altitude sickness a concern on the Khopra Danda Trek?
Altitude sickness is generally not a major concern on the Khopra Danda Trek, as the maximum altitude reached is around 3,660 meters at Khopra Ridge. However, it is still important to acclimatize properly by ascending gradually and staying hydrated.
What should I pack for the Khopra Danda Trek?
Some essential items to pack for the Khopra Danda Trek include trekking boots, comfortable clothing, a waterproof jacket, a hat, gloves, a sleeping bag, a backpack, sunscreen, a water bottle, and a first aid kit. It is also recommended to carry some snacks and water purification tablets.
Can I do the Khopra Danda Trek solo?
Yes, it is possible to do the Khopra Danda Trek solo. However, as mentioned earlier, having a guide is recommended for safety and navigation purposes. If you choose to trek solo, make sure you are well-prepared, physically fit, and have some prior trekking experience.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
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Based On 32 Reviews
Rebecca Gorgan
Australia
September 4, 2024
Top Choice for Trekking Adventures
Sherpa Expedition & Trekking is a top choice for trekking adventures, as evidenced by our Khopra Danda Trek. The team’s expertise and attention to detail ensured a smooth and enjoyable experience. Our guide was both professional and friendly, adding to the overall enjoyment of the trek. The breathtaking landscapes and comfortable accommodations were highlights. Sherpa Expedition’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction makes them a highly recommended option for anyone planning a trek.
Joseph Belony
Canada
August 22, 2024
Fantastic Khopra Danda Trek
Our Khopra Danda Trek with Sherpa Expedition & Trekking was fantastic. The team’s organization and professionalism were top-notch. The guide was knowledgeable and made the trek enjoyable with interesting facts about the local culture. The trek provided stunning views and the accommodations were well-chosen. Sherpa Expedition’s dedication to providing an exceptional trekking experience was evident throughout. For a well-organized and memorable trek, Sherpa Expedition is an excellent choice.
Izabela Rutkowska
Hong Kong
August 8, 2024
Excellent Trekking Services
Sherpa Expedition & Trekking offered excellent services on our Khopra Danda Trek. The team was well-organized and attentive, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trek. Our guide was professional and provided valuable insights into the region. The trek’s natural beauty was complemented by comfortable lodgings and good food. Sherpa Expedition’s focus on customer satisfaction and attention to detail made this trek a fantastic experience. Highly recommend their services for a memorable adventure.
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