Khopra Ridge Khayer Lake Trek
Khopra Ridge Khayer Lake Trek
Looking to get away into the least explored wilderness and far from the regular more crowded destinations, then the Khopra Ridge Khayer Lake trek may be just what you are looking for. It is situated to the south of Annapurna Ranges and is often compared with the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek. Khopra Danda is a little higher at 3,640 meters, whereas Poon Hill is (3,210m). The views from Khopra Danda are slightly better than Poon Hill due to it being at a higher altitude.
Some of the enormous 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 close-up views many others. Khayer Lake is located at an altitude of 4,660 meters.
An early morning start to the day ensures that you are at the viewpoint of Poon Hill (3210m) in time to watch the sunrise over the surrounding snow-clad mountains. The trail passes through profuse green forests with beautiful red, white and pink rhododendrons that make you constantly reach for your camera. The Poon Hill segment of this trek is the most popular trek in the Annapurna region.
The trail leading to Khopra Ridge passes through dense and lush green forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron. Along the trail, you have numerous perspectives of the Himalayan Mountains. At lower altitudes, you will pass by fertile terraced farmlands and be exposed to various cultures, such as Magar and Gurung in their villages. There are several lodges and tea houses on Khopra Ridge where we can stop for a rest and meet the locals.
One attraction of this trek is that it is less traveled and hence it is quieter and more peaceful. This trek is suitable for families whose sole aim is to witness first-hand the impressive views without having to acclimatize before trekking to higher elevations. It is hence far less strenuous trekking at lower altitudes.
Sherpa Expedition Teams have an excellent reputation in the trekking business and will take care of all logistics, including permits, all meals and accommodation on the trek.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Arrival at Kathmandu (1400 m/ 4,600 ft) & transfer to hotel.
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 Ridge Khayer Lake.
Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (892 m/ 2926 ft) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Our journey begins with a 6-7 hour drive to Pokhara Valley and its attractive 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. Watching the sunset over the lake is a peaceful way to end the day.
Day 3 : Drive from Pokhara to Ghandruk (1940 M/6,365 ft) & trek to Tadapani (2,630m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we drive from Pokhara to Ghandruk Village and then after a break for lunch start on our trek to Tadapani. We pass through oak and rhododendron forests and along the trail will have some great views of Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, and Lamjung Himal.
Day 4 : Trek from Tadapani to Bayeli Kharka (3420 m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
If you get up early you can see a beautiful sunrise in the forever changing morning light. We then head out on the trail walking through rhododendron forest before arriving at Bayeli Kharka. You will also have some superb views of the Annapurna Ranges along the trail. From Bayeli you can see Mt. Dhaulagiri (the world’s 7th highest peak).
Day 5 : Trek from Bayli Kharka Trek To Khopra Danda / Ridge (3,660m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
The first leg of our journey takes us to We will descend to Chhsitibang Village and then on to Khopra ridge. On the trail we can see pheasant, yaks and Himalayan Tahr. From the ridge you have some fantastic views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, South, Tukuche Peak, Dhampus Peak, Mt. Nilgiri, and other snow clad peaks.
Day 6 : Hike to Khayer lake (4827m) & back to Khopre Ridge; Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we head out to Khayer Lake (4,600m/15,092ft). The lake views are especially beautiful high up in the mountains with its crystal clear water. We will then head back to Khopra Ridge for the night.
Day 7 : Trek from Khopra Ridge To Swanta (2,270m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today is a relatively easy trek to Swanta that is famous for having its own cheese factory that you may wish to visit and sample some of its cheeses – including yak cheeses. We will stay here overnight.
Day 8 : Trek from Swanta to Ghoreapni (2,860m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we follow the trail to Ghorepani, famous for its mountain views – especially at sunrise and sunset. At first we will trek to Chitre village and then follow the main trail to Ghorepani from where we can see Mt. Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, I and other magnificent snow covered peaks. Just prior to sunset you may wish to take the short trek up to Poon Hill, famous for its spectacular sunset views. Tonight we will stay at a lodge here in Ghorepani.
Day 9 : Hike to Poon Hill (3,210m), trek to Nayapul & Drive to Pokhara (8,50m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Poon Hill has a well deserved reputation for having some of the best sunrise views anywhere in Nepal of the surrounding Himalayan Mountains, such as well known for offering unheralded views of the Annapurna Ranges, such as: Dhaulagiri (8167m), Annapurna I (8091m), Annapurna II (7937m), Annapurna III (7855m), Annapurna IV (7525m), Annapurna South (729m), Nilgiri (6940m), Tukuche (6920m), Varaha Shikhar (7847m) & Lamjung Himal (6931m). After frantically snapping photos we will return for breakfast at Ghorepani, after which we head to Nayapul and then drive back to Pokhara.
Day 10 : Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1310 m/ 4297 ft) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we drive 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. You can wander around Thamel and do some last minute shopping or maybe visit one of the many cafes.
Day 11 : Transfer to the International Airport for your final Departure.
This is your final day in Nepal and a representative from Sherpa Expedition and Trekking representative will drop you at the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight. On your journey home you can look back at this amazing time in Nepal and plan your next adventure to the Himalayan Mountains.
SERVICES
Cost Included In Your Package
- All airport pick-up & drop off by private vehicle (international)
- Two-night accommodation in Kathmandu with Breakfast.
- Both way transportation for Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu by Tourist Bus.
- Both way private transportation service between Pokhara and Nayapul (trek start and endpoint)
- Two-night accommodation in a selected hotel in Pokhara with Breakfast.
- Best Possible Teahouse, lodge accommodation during the trek
- All Standard Meals -3 meals a day (Lunches, Dinners, and Breakfasts) during the trek.
- Government License holder English Speaking Sherpa Expedition and Trekking 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 meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation, and other necessary equipment.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) Fee.
- Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card fee.
- All government, Local taxes, and official Expenses
- Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag and walking poles (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after trip completed).
- Assistance in arranging rescue operations in case of complicated health conditions (funded by travel insurance).
- Sherpa Expedition and Trekking T-shirt
- Sherpa Expedition and Trekking of certificate after over 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.
- Assistant guide for groups of 8 or more people.
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.
- Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu & 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 water, 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 condition, 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 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 Ridge Khayer Lake Trek?
The Khopra Ridge Khayer Lake Trek is a relatively new and less crowded trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It offers a unique combination of stunning mountain views, diverse landscapes, and cultural experiences.
How long does the trek take?
The duration of the Khopra Ridge Khayer Lake Trek is typically around 10-12 days. This includes acclimatization days, rest days, and the side trip to Khayer Lake. The exact duration may vary depending on your pace and itinerary.
What is the difficulty level of the trek?
The Khopra Ridge Khayer Lake Trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek. It involves trekking through varied terrain, including steep ascents and descents, as well as some off-the-beaten-path sections. A good level of fitness and previous trekking experience is recommended.
What are the highlights of the trek?
The trek offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, including close-up views of mountains like Annapurna South, Himchuli, and Nilgiri. The Khopra Ridge viewpoint is a highlight, providing a stunning 360-degree view of the surrounding peaks. Additionally, the trek allows you to experience the local Gurung and Magar cultures, visit traditional villages, and explore beautiful rhododendron forests.
Do I need a permit for the trek?
Yes, you will need two permits for the Khopra Ridge Khayer Lake Trek. The first is the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), which can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara. The second is the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card, which is also available in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
What is the best time to do the trek?
The best time to do the Khopra Ridge Khayer Lake Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer clear skies, moderate temperatures, and great views of the mountains. However, the trek can be done throughout the year, except during the monsoon season (June to August) when the trails can be slippery and prone to landslides.
What kind of accommodation can I expect during the trek?
The trekking route has a network of teahouses and lodges where you can stay overnight. These teahouses provide basic facilities such as a bed, blankets, and meals. The accommodation can vary in terms of comfort and cleanliness, but they generally offer a cozy and warm environment.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
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Based On 22 Reviews
Isabel Caliao
Netherlands
August 28, 2024
Excellent Khopra Danda Trek
Trekking with Sherpa Expedition A Teams to Khopra Danda was an excellent experience. The service was impeccable, with guides who were both professional and personable. The trek was well-organized, with stunning views and comfortable accommodations. The team’s dedication to our comfort and safety was evident throughout the journey. The meals were well-prepared, and the support staff were always friendly. Sherpa Expedition A Teams ensured that every detail was managed effectively, resulting in a superb trekking adventure. I would highly recommend their services for a top-tier experience.
Walter Haider
Canada
August 19, 2024
Remarkable Trekking Experience
Trekking with Sherpa Expedition A Teams to Khopra Danda was a remarkable experience. Their team showed exceptional professionalism and care throughout the trek. The guides were well-informed and attentive, ensuring a safe and enriching journey. The trek itself was beautifully planned, with stunning landscapes and comfortable accommodations. The meals were well-prepared and satisfying. Sherpa Expedition A Teams made sure every aspect of the trek was smooth and enjoyable, making it a standout adventure. I would definitely choose them for future treks.
JanXada HaMdaRd
United States
August 9, 2024
Excellent Organization and Service on Khopra Danda Trek
Sherpa Expedition A Teams excelled in organizing and providing service on our Khopra Danda Trek. The trek was well-structured, with a clear itinerary and well-chosen accommodations. Our guide was knowledgeable and provided insightful commentary about the region. The stunning views from Khopra Danda were a highlight of the trek, and the team’s attention to detail made the journey enjoyable and comfortable. The food was good, and the support staff were always helpful. Sherpa Expedition A Teams made this trek an excellent experience.
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