Trip Facts

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Trip Duration 12 Days
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Trip Difficulty Moderate
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Maximum Altitude 3,660 m
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Best Season To Visit March-May, October-December
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Average Group Size Min 2 pax

Trip Overview

Khopra Ridge Trek: A Hidden Gem in the Annapurna Region

The Khopra Ridge Trek offers a peaceful alternative to busier trails in the Annapurna region. This trek lets you explore pristine landscapes, stunning mountain views, and rich culture. Nepal Sanctuary Treks brings over 27 years of experience, providing a unique Khopra Ridge Trek adventure that supports local communities and promotes sustainable tourism practices.

On the Khopra Ridge Trek, you’ll trek through diverse terrain, from lush forests to high alpine meadows. The route offers spectacular views of the Annapurna range and vibrant rice terraces. Each day brings a fresh perspective on the valley, making the Khopra Ridge trek a truly unforgettable experience.

The Highlight: Khopra Ridge Views and Khayer Lake

The Khopra Ridge Trek offers stunning panoramic views. From Khopra Ridge, you can see Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machapuchhre, and Himalchuli. The sunrise over the snow-capped peaks creates a golden glow, making the landscape unforgettable. Enjoy sweeping vistas of lush valleys, terraced rice fields, and dense forests throughout your journey.

Khayar Lake is another highlight of the trek. This hidden glacial lake, deep in Annapurna Sanctuary, feels like a secret treasure. The peaceful surroundings make it an awe-inspiring stop on your adventure.

A Trek for Everyone: Families, Solo Trekkers, and Small Groups

The Khopra Ridge Trek is moderate, making it ideal for families, solo trekkers, and small groups. Along the way, you will stay in local homestays, community lodges, and tea houses, many of which are operated by the local community. These community-operated lodgings offer an authentic cultural experience while directly supporting the local economy. The Khopra Ridge Trek allows you to immerse yourself in local culture and contribute to community-based tourism.

Best Time to Experience the Khopra Ridge Trek

The best time to undertake the Khopra Ridge Trek is from October to December and from March to May, when the weather provides clear skies, moderate temperatures, and stunning mountain vistas. For a memorable Khopra Ridge Trek, timing is crucial to witness the beauty of the Annapurna region trekking.

During autumn, the average temperature is about 20°C (68°F), with sunny days reaching highs of 25°C (77°F) and cooler mornings and evenings dropping to -5°C (23°F) at higher altitudes. In spring, temperatures remain around 20°C (68°F), with daytime highs of 25°C (77°F) and nighttime and early morning lows of 0°C (32°F) at higher elevations. Winter temperatures are chillier, averaging 10°C (50°F), with a high of 17°C (62.6°F) on sunny days, and dropping to a low of -10°C (14°F) at night and in the morning.

Khopra Ridge Trek Difficulty Level: What to Expect

The trek is rated as moderate, making it suitable for those with basic fitness levels. No prior trekking experience is required, but it’s important to be in good physical health and maintain a positive attitude. If you’re in good shape, the trek should be manageable. We recommend starting a fitness plan at least two months before your trip, with activities like hiking, cycling, walking, or cardio exercises.

Mental preparation is just as crucial as physical fitness for the Khopra Ridge Trek. A positive mindset will help you stay motivated, overcome challenges, and fully embrace the experience. Meditation can be a great tool to boost mental readiness, helping you stay calm and focused along the way. Stay flexible, patient, and open to the unexpected to make the most of your Khopra Ridge adventure.

Why Choose Nepal Sanctuary Treks for Your Khopra Ridge Trek?

With Nepal Sanctuary Treks, your Khopra Ridge Trek is fully customized. As a Travelife Certified Company, we are committed to sustainable tourism and supporting local communities. Our focus is on both adventure and cultural immersion, ensuring a unique and enriching experience. Your trek also supports local communities through stays in community lodges, promoting responsible tourism that benefits both you and the people of Nepal. Our experienced team, who knows the Khopra Ridge well, will guide you every step of the way.

We focus on small group sizes and strict safety protocols, offering personalized care and attention. Our long-standing relationships with trusted suppliers ensure you have high-quality accommodations and reliable transportation during your Khopra Ridge Trek.

Ready for Your Next Adventure?

Explore the breathtaking Khopra Ridge Trek in Nepal’s Annapurna region. Book your trek with Nepal Sanctuary Treks today. This is only a sample itinerary of Khopra Ridge Community Trek. We shall tailor-make the program according to your preferences and requirements.

Note: Below Khopra Ridge Trek’s hours, altitudes and distances are approximate, and absolutely for the general idea only.

Trip Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive at Kathmandu airport

Altitude above sea level: 1,302 m / 4,269 ft.
Driving Time: Approximately 30 minutes (depending on traffic)
Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative holding a “Nepal Sanctuary Treks” placard.

You will then be transferred to your hotel in a private vehicle. After checking in and freshening up, our representative will meet you to provide a detailed briefing on your upcoming itinerary, along with important safety guidelines and hygiene practices to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trek.

Day 02: Cultural Introductory Tour and Trek Preparation

Altitude above sea level: 1,302 m / 4,269 ft.
Tour Duration: Approximately 8 hours
Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast

9:00 AM – Guided Cultural Tour of Kathmandu Valley
Start your day with a guided cultural tour of Kathmandu Valley, exploring the city with expert guides who will share insights into its rich history and heritage.

Kathmandu Durbar Square
Visit Kathmandu Durbar Square (Hanuman Dhoka Durbar), a royal historical complex filled with temples, palaces, and shrines dating back to the 15th century. Highlights include Kumari Ghar, the residence of the living goddess, and Kasthamandap, an architectural marvel constructed from a single tree.

Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)
Next, head to Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, a sacred site for both Hinduism and Buddhism. Admire the striking white dome and golden spire while soaking in the serene atmosphere of incense, prayer wheels, and panoramic city views.

Boudhanath Stupa
In the afternoon, visit the massive Boudhanath Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and spiritual center of Tibetan culture. Witness colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind, monks performing rituals, and devotees chanting “Om Mani Padme Hum.”

Pashupatinath Temple
Conclude your tour at Pashupatinath Temple, one of Hinduism’s most sacred sites, situated along the Bagmati River. Here, observe profound spiritual rituals, including the moving sight of open-air cremations, which hold deep cultural and religious significance. After this immersive experience, you will return to your hotel.

Day 03: Flight to Pokhara – Drive Syauli Bazaar - Trek to Ghandruk

Altitude above sea level: 2,012 m / 6,601 ft.  Ghandruk Village
Flight Duration: 25 minutes
Driving Time: Approximately 2 hours
Hiking Duration: 3–4 hours 
Ascent: 294 m / 965 ft.
Descent: 10 m / 32 ft.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, begin your journey with a scenic flight to Pokhara, followed by a short drive to Syaulibazzar (682 m / 2,240 ft.), the starting point of the trek. The trail winds through lush forests and terraced fields, offering spectacular views of Machhapuchhre Himal (6,696 m / 22,690 ft.) and the Modi River. Arrive at Ghandruk, a picturesque village rich in culture and traditional architecture. Explore its cobbled streets, visit the cultural museum, and soak in unforgettable sunrise and sunset views over the Annapurna Massif.

Day 04: Trek to Tadapani

Altitude above sea level: 2,590 m / 8,497 ft. Tadapani
Hiking Duration: Approximately 3–4 hours (9.33 km / 5.84 mi)
Ascent: 558 m / 1,830 ft.
Descent: 43 m / 140 ft.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast in Ghandruk, begin the trek uphill through Deurali, passing into a lush rhododendron forest. Continue to a small pass before arriving at Tadapani. In spring, the trail is adorned with vibrant rhododendron blossoms, adding bursts of color to the journey.

Tadapani is a tranquil village surrounded by rhododendron, magnolia, and oak forests. From here, enjoy spectacular views of Machhapuchhre (6,996 m / 22,953 ft) and Annapurna South (7,219 m / 23,684 ft). It’s an ideal spot to relax and take in the natural beauty of the Khopra Ridge region.

Day 05: Trek to Dobato

Altitude above sea level: 3,350 m / 10,990 ft. Dobato
Hiking Duration: Approximately 5–6 hours (8 km / 4.97 mi)
Ascent: 876 m / 2,879 ft.
Descent: 60 m / 197 ft.
Accommodation: Tea House Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, start your trek toward Dobato. The trail continues to ascend, with stone steps guiding you through a dense rhododendron forest. In spring, the forest bursts with vibrant shades of pink and red, creating a spectacular scene.

As you follow the ridge, enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and the lush valleys below. Eventually, you will reach Dobato, where you will stay overnight. After a fulfilling day of trekking, the tea house offers a perfect spot to relax and soak in the serene surroundings.

After breakfast, start your trek toward Dobato. The trail continues to ascend, with stone steps guiding you through a dense rhododendron forest. In spring, the forest bursts with vibrant shades of pink and red, creating a spectacular scene.

As you follow the ridge, enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and the lush valleys below. Eventually, you will reach Dobato, where you will stay overnight. After a fulfilling day of trekking, the tea house offers a perfect spot to relax and soak in the serene surroundings.

Day 06: Sunrise hike to Mulde Peak -Trek to Upper Chistibung

Altitude above sea level: 3,150 m / 10,335 ft. Upper Chistibung
Hiking Duration: Approximately 4–5 hours (8 km / 4.97 mi)
Ascent: 378 m / 1,240 ft.
Descent: 770 m / 2,529 ft.
Accommodation: Community Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, begin an early morning hike to Mulde Peak (3,637 m / 11,932 ft.) to catch the sunrise. From the summit, enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the Annapurna range, including Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Annapurna III. Spring trekkers will be delighted by vibrant rhododendron blooms along the forested ridges, making it a perfect spot for photography.

Following the summit visit, descend through peaceful meadows and serene forests to reach the grazing fields of Lower Chistibung. Continue with a gentle uphill walk through another stretch of forest to arrive at Upper Chistibung, a seasonal settlement used by local herders.

Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way—you may spot the Danphe (Nepal’s national bird) or Himalayan Thar grazing on the ridgelines. This hike combines stunning mountain panoramas, rich wildlife, and the tranquil beauty of the Himalayas, offering an unforgettable trekking experience.

Day 07: Trek to Khopra Ridge

Altitude above sea level: 3,660 m / 12,008 ft. Khopra Ridge
Hiking Duration: Approximately 3–4 hours (3.84 km / 2.39 mi)
Ascent: 638 m / 2,094 ft.
Descent: 6 m / 20 ft.
Accommodation: Community Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, begin a gradual ascent through alpine meadows toward Khopra Ridge. Along the way, catch your first glimpse of Annapurna South, signaling your approach to the ridge.

Arrive at Khopra Ridge Lodge in time for lunch. From the lodge, take in sweeping views of Annapurna South, just 6 km (3.7 mi) away, with Fang and Nilgiri peaks rising majestically to the north.

In the afternoon, enjoy a short hike to a viewpoint overlooking the Kali Gandaki River in the deep valley below. From here, marvel at the breathtaking panorama of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. For those interested, a hike towards Khayer Lake. It is a sacred site in the Annapurna region offers both spiritual significance and stunning scenery.

Day 08: Trek to Swanta Village

Altitude above sea level: 2,214 m / 7,267 ft.  Swanta Village
Hiking Duration: Approximately 5–6 hours (9.6 km / 5.9 mi)
Descent: 1,390 m / 4,560 ft.
Accommodation: Community Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, begin the descent from Upper Chistibung, retracing your path through the hillside. Walk through dense green oak forests, which contrast beautifully with the brown oak trees seen earlier. Pass Chistibung Lodge, cross a wooden bridge, and continue through bamboo forests, navigating both gentle ascents and descents along the way.

Upon arriving at Swanta Village, the scenery opens up to reveal traditional homes nestled among rice and potato fields. In the afternoon and evening, explore the village at your own pace. Don’t miss a visit to Swanta Primary School, a community-supported school run by two dedicated teachers, giving you a glimpse into local life and culture.

Day 09: Trek to Ulleri

Altitude above sea level: 2,050 m / 6,726 ft. Ulleri
Hiking Duration: Approximately 5–6 hours (9 km / 5.6 mi)
Ascent: 150 m / 492 ft.
Descent: 300 m / 984 ft.
Accommodation: Community Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, begin your descent through village fields toward a small river, passing by a traditional watermill along the way.

Cross a suspension bridge and then climb up to Chittre, where you reconnect with the main trail to Ghorepani. From Ghorepani, follow a steep trail descending through rhododendron forests, eventually arriving at Ulleri, a charming village nestled in the hills.

Day 10: Trek to Birethathi –Drive Pokhara

Altitude above sea level: 895 m / 2,936 ft.  Pokhara
Hiking Duration: Approximately 6 hours (7.8 km / 4.9 mi)
Descent: 56 m / 187 ft.
Driving Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours – Birethathi to Pokhara
Accommodation: Mount Kailash Resort or similar
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

After breakfast, begin a downhill hike through hills, villages, farmlands, and ethnic settlements, making your way toward Birethathi. Upon reaching Birethathi, meet your private jeep for a scenic drive back to Pokhara.

After checking in at your hotel, enjoy some leisure time to explore the city.

Day 11: Flight back to Kathmandu

Altitude: 1,302 m/4,268 ft. Kathmandu
Flight Duration:Approximately 25 minutes 
Accommodation: Hotel Tibet or similar
Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, take a short flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy some free time to relax. You can shop for souvenirs or unwind after your unforgettable adventure.

Day 12: Final Departure

Meal: Breakfast

As your unforgettable journey comes to an end, it’s time to fly back home, cherishing all the incredible memories of Nepal. A representative from Nepal Sanctuary Treks will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). Please make sure to check in 3 hours prior to your scheduled flight for a smooth departure.

Price Included

What's Included

  • Private Airport transfers,
  • Internal flight: Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu
  • Transfer to from trek point,
  • 3 nights Hotel Tibet or similar in Kathmandu & 1 night Mount Kailash Resort or similar with breakfast,
  • Tea house lodge accommodation during trek on full board,
  • Guided Kathmandu Sightseeing tour with entrance fees
  • Annapurna Conservation Fees,
  • Staff insurance on the trek,
  • Trek guide & porter
  • Duffel bag
  • Map
  • First aid kit supplies

What's not Included

  • Additional tours and meals that are not mentioned,
  • Beverages,
  • Personal equipment,
  • Personal bills,
  • International airfare
  • Excess baggage beyond 15 kilos, including day pack
  • Visa fee: US$ 30 for 15 days, US$ 50 for 30 days, and US$125 for 90 days of multiple entries
  • Insurance (for cancellation, accident, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of or damage to baggage and personal effects), liability insurance
  • Tips

Faqs

Why choose Kopra Ridge trek?

Khopra Ridge Trek is a newly discovered short trekking route in the Annapurna region; it is an alternative to Ghorepaani Poonhill trek. Although Khopra Ridge is in the heart of the Annapurna region, it remains rural and unknown to trekkers. The trek includes experiencing traditional village culture, wildlife, panoramic mountain views, and a range of landscapes from forest to high alpine, it is a classic trek. The trek passes through a different trail away from the crowded Annapurna trail.

How fit do I need to be for this trek?

You will be walking for minimum of 5 – 7hrs a day, you don’t have to really fit but the minimum level of fitness is required as the trek is not an easy one. You do have to be healthy and mentally prepared for trekking in this region although it doesn’t require mountaineering skills.

What is the best time of the year for this trek?

The trek is possible throughout the year. However, autumn and spring are the best seasons; choose to trek in autumn (Sep-Nov) as spring is busy with expedition stuff.

Why should I trek with Nepal Sanctuary Treks (NST)?

For over two decades, Nepal Sanctuary Treks has been crafting sustainable and bespoke trekking adventures in Nepal. Our deep knowledge of the region allows us to meticulously tailor itineraries to guest’s specific desires, ensuring a transformative journey. Committed to sustainability, our efforts are recognized by the prestigious Travelife Certified Award. Nepal Sanctuary Treks actively empowers local communities by supporting female-owned businesses and promoting girls’ education. Learn more

 

Can children do trek with their families in Nepal?

Yes, children can join trek, as there are no age restrictions. Generally, children acclimatize well to altitude, but our travel expert will reach out to you beforehand to provide personalise advice tailored to your family’s needs. At Nepal Sanctuary Treks, we specialize in creating family-friendly itineraries, and our guides have extensive experience working with families to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure. For more information or to discuss specific details about the trek, please don’t hesitate to email us at info@nepalsanctuarytreks.com.

Do I need travel insurance covered while trekking/traveling in Nepal?

Insurance is a compulsion as anything can happen in the trek; for emergency rescue, personal liabilities, cancellation, loss of luggage and other reasons if necessary.

How much weight do I have to carry or how much will my porter carry?

You can bring as much as clothes you want but extra luggage is not required for the trek, you can leave your extra luggage in Kathmandu or Pokhara’s hotel. For the trek you can carry enough clothes you require in your backpack or carry only the camera, water bottle few clothes etc in your backpack. The potter can carry your extra duffle bag clothes which can weigh up to  30kg. However the local domestic flights (Lukla, Jomsom, Juphal, Simikot) allows maximum of 15kg per person including carry-on baggage.

What medical facilities are there on Kopra Ridge trek?

In case of an emergency, you need to get evacuated by helicopter to Kathmandu, you need to take proper care of your health. Anyway, you will find small clinics along the trek. However, you need to bring your medicine (if any) and a first aid box will be provided by Nepal Sanctuary Treks, also your guide will be trained for first aid in case of emergency.

For further inquiries, you can contact Nepal Sanctuary Treks at: info@nepalsanctuarytreks.com or sanctuarytreks@gmail.com

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Khopra Ridge Trek