Khopra Danda Trek

Duration

15 days

Max Alt

4,700m

Difficulty

Medium

Trek Overview

The Khopra Danda Trek is a newly introduced, short, and rewarding trekking route in the stunning Annapurna Region of Nepal. Often considered an alternative extension of the classic Ghorepani Poon Hill trail, this off-the-beaten-path journey is quickly gaining popularity among both domestic and international trekkers.

Perfect for those seeking a peaceful Himalayan experience without extreme difficulty, the Khopra Danda Trek offers breathtaking panoramic views of iconic peaks such as Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchre. In addition to mountain scenery, this trek provides rich cultural encounters with local Gurung and Magar communities.

Trekking at a Glance

Duration

15 days

Trip Grade

Medium

Max Altitude

4,700m

Accommodation

Lodge and Tea-House

Starts/Ends

Kathmandu/Pokhara

Activities

Trekking and Hiking

Best Time

Autumn and Spring

Itinerary

15 Days Journey

Day 1:

Arrival in Kathmandu

Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. You can relax and recover from jet lag. In the evening, a short briefing about the trek preparation will be conducted. Overnight in Kathmandu

Hotel

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 2:

Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara

After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive to Pokhara, Nepal’s most beautiful lakeside city. In the afternoon, you may enjoy boating on Phewa Lake and visit the Tal Barahi Temple located at the center of the lake. Explore the vibrant Lakeside area in the evening. Overnight in Pokhara

Hotel

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

820m

5-6hrs drive

Day 3:

Drive to Nayapul & Trek to Ghandruk

Drive (1.5 hrs) to Nayapul, the trek starting point. Begin trekking along the Modi Khola River, crossing suspension bridges and charming villages like Birethanti and Syauli Bazaar. After lunch, ascend stone steps through Kimche and Chane to reach the beautiful Gurung village of Ghandruk. Enjoy stunning views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchre.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

1,940m

5-6 hrs

Day 4:

Ghandruk to Tadapani

Enter dense rhododendron and oak forests filled with birdlife and waterfalls. In spring, the forests bloom in vibrant colors.

Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

2,700m

4-5hrs

Day 5:

Tadapani to Bayeli Kharka

Today you leave the busy Ghorepani trail and follow a peaceful off-the-beaten path. Climb gradually through rhododendron forest before emerging above the tree line. From Bayeli Kharka, enjoy incredible views of Dhaulagiri, the seventh-highest mountain in the world.

Community Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

3,460m

6-7 hrs

Day 6:

Bayeli Kharka to Upper Chistibung

Descend through alpine meadows and buffalo pastures to Lower Chistibung, then gradually ascend to Upper Chistibung. This area operates under the community lodge model, directly benefiting local villages and schools.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

2,950m

4–5 Hours

Day 7:

Upper Chistibung to Khopra Ridge

A steady climb takes you above the tree line to spectacular Khopra Ridge. Wildlife sightings may include Himalayan Tahr and Danphe (Nepal’s national bird).

Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

3,660m

3-4 hrs

Day 8:

Day Hike to Khayer Lake

Optional but highly recommended hike to sacred Khayer Lake. This high-altitude alpine lake sits beneath Annapurna South and offers breathtaking Himalayan panoramas, including views toward Annapurna I. Alternative shorter hike to Thanti (4,200m) is available. Return to Khopra Ridge.

Logde

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

4,700m

7-8hr

Day 9:

Khopra Ridge to Swanta

Descend back through Chistibung and continue toward Swanta village. Visit the local school supported by community tourism initiatives and interact with villagers.

Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

2,260m

5-6 hours

Day 10:

Swanta to Ghorepani

Descend to a river, cross a suspension bridge, and climb to Chittre village. Join the main trekking trail to Ghorepani. Enjoy mountain views and rest.

Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

2,840m

7-8 hours

Day 11:

Sunrise at Poon Hill & Hike to Mohare Hill

Early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) for one of Nepal’s most famous sunrise panoramas. Witness 360° views of: Dhaulagiri Range, Annapurna Range, Manaslu Continue hiking along scenic ridges to Mohare Hill before returning to Ghorepani.

Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

3,300m

6-7 hours

Day 12:

Ghorepani to Tikhedhunga

Descend through beautiful rhododendron forests to Ulleri village. Continue steep stone staircases to Tikhedhunga.

Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

1,540m

6-7 hours

Day 13:

Trek to Nayapul & Drive to Pokhara

Trek gently along the Modi River to Nayapul. Say farewell to porters and drive back to Pokhara. Relax at Lakeside.

Hotel

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

4-5 hours trek and 1 hours drive

Day 14:

Drive Back to Kathmandu

Scenic return drive to Kathmandu. Enjoy free time for shopping or sightseeing.

Hotel

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

6-7 hours driving

Day 15:

Departure from Nepal

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport at least 3 hours before your flight. We hope the Himalayas, culture, and natural beauty of Nepal leave lasting memories — and inspire your next adventure.

What's Included & Excluded

What's Included

Airport arrival & departure transfers
Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (twin-sharing)
Teahouse/lodge accommodation during the trek (twin-sharing as per schedule)
Meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Domestic flights (Kathmandu to Pokhara and return)
Transportation by vehicle (Pokhara to Sikles and return)
Porter to carry your personal luggage (2 trekkers equal 1 porter)
Trekking guide and porter insurance
All necessary permits (National Park Entry Permit, TIMS)
Kathmandu sightseeing tour
First aid kit, duffle bag, and filtered drinking water

What's Not Included

International airfare
Nepalese visa fee
Travel and rescue insurance
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharges)
Meals in Kathmandu
Tips for guide, porter, and driver
Additional drinks or meals not included in the itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Khopra Danda Trek?

The Khopra Danda Trek is considered a moderate-level trek in the Annapurna Region. It is suitable for beginners with good physical fitness as well as experienced trekkers looking for a quieter alternative to busier routes like Ghorepani Poon Hill.
The trail includes gradual ascents, stone staircases, and a few steep sections, especially near Khopra Ridge and the optional hike to Khayer Lake. No technical climbing skills are required, but proper acclimatization and basic trekking preparation are recommended.

What is the best time to do the Khopra Danda Trek?

The best seasons for the Khopra Danda Trek are:
Spring (March–May) – Clear mountain views and blooming rhododendron forests
Autumn (September–November) – Stable weather and excellent visibility
During these months, trekkers enjoy panoramic views of peaks like Annapurna South and Dhaulagiri. Winter is possible but colder at higher elevations, while monsoon season brings heavy rainfall and limited mountain views.

Is Khayer Lake included in the Khopra Danda Trek itinerary?

Yes, most Khopra Danda Trek itineraries include an optional day hike to Khayer Lake (4,700m) from Khopra Ridge. Khayer Lake is a sacred alpine lake located beneath Annapurna South and offers spectacular high-altitude Himalayan scenery.

However, the hike is long (7–8 hours round trip) and physically demanding due to altitude gain. Trekkers who prefer a shorter option can hike partway to Thanti viewpoint and return to Khopra Ridge.

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Khopra Danda Trek