Khopra Danda Trekking
Raw Beauty of Annapurna Massif

Khopra Danda and Khayer Lake Trek

  • Duration: 11 Days
  • Diffculty Level: Moderate 
  • Destination: Nepal
  • Best Time: Spring and Autumn
  • Activity: Trekking
  • Max. Altitude: 4500m

Highlights

  • Gurung Village of Ghandruk
  • Khopra Danda
  • Khayer Lake
  • Magar Village of Narchyang
  • Narchyang Waterfall
  • Hot Springs of Tatopani
  • Views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhre, and several other peaks in the Annapurna mastiff

Khopra Danda Trek with Yolo hike takes you through the hidden trails of the Annapurna region. we will collect a unique experience to make it to Khopra Danda. We’ll experience one of Nepal's best off-the-beaten trail trekking from this tour. Also, let us not forget the holy Khayer Lake, sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists.

Khopra Danda and Khayer Lake Trek provide you with diverse experiences. you will hike through the authenticity of the Gurung community and culture. During our free time here, we’ll explore the Gurung museum. you will get in touch with the local values and norms of the Gurung people.

"Khopra Danda – Raw beauty of the Annapurna massif"

The initial trail follows the stone paved stair. Once you start increasing the altitude you will see a natural trail. In Khopra ridge you will see a wide panorama view of the Annapurna Range. You will also experience the diversity of tropical landscapes and cherish rhododendron forests.

You will hike up to Khayer Lake which will be the ultimate location for the journey. this location has a spiritual and inspiring beauty. Follow the lonely trail and observe the unique and hidden perspective of Annapurna.

Getting There and Away

Khopra Danda's journey starts with a long drive along the Prithvi Highway to the lake city of Pokhara. Relish the rest time roaming around Pokhara. The next day, we’ll drive for an hour and a half to make it to the Gurung village of Ghandruk.

After a splendid stay in Nepal's first model village the Ghandruk, we will then head towards Tadapani. There are many ascents and descents till Dobato also known as Bhaisi Kharka. Get a stunning view of the mountain panorama and landscape from the top of Muldai Peak (Hill). Trekkers then trek through small forests to make it to Upper Chitsibung. 

An uphill climb from here will see us at Khopra Danda. Viewpoint in Khopra Danda offers breathtaking views of the nearby Annapurna peaks. such as Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhre, and Annapurna. On the next day, we’ll visit the sacred Khayer Lake which sits atop 4500 meters.

Get back to Khopra Danda and explore the hillside. Hike downhill via the Magar village of Narchyang to make it to Tatopani. While here, enjoy its soothing hot springs. We’ll drive back to Pokhara and then to Kathmandu the next day before ending our 11-day trip.

Khopra Ridge (Khopra Danda)

The view from Khopra Ridge is beyond the famous trails. This location challenges the so-called best viewpoints. Khopra ridge is higher in altitude than Poon Hill with an altitude of 3660m. Khopra Danda is 400m higher.

The Khopra Danda provides a magnificent view of the Annapurna range. you can see the cloud layer surrounding the mountains with a beautiful white glow. you will see the river shores and cliffs with a tropical landscape underneath.

When you arrive at Khopra, a stunning mountain range will surround you. You get welcomed by Mt. Tukuche, Mt. Nilgiri South and North, Mt. Annapurna South, Mt. Annapurna Fang, Mt. Annapurna I, and the Dhaulagiri range.

Here, the tea house itself is a vantage point. Observe the sun and clouds getting ready for a stunning sunset.

Khayer Lake

Khayer Lake is a tranquil lake surrounded by the Annapurna range and Himalayan terrain. with an altitude of 4700m, a trail to Khayer lake conserves the diversity of the Himalayas. the interesting thing about Khayer lake is that this trek takes at a higher altitude than Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

We have amazing views of the Fang and the mountains around. You could hike along the ridge and observe the peak from all sides. Hindus consider Khayer Lake a sacred body of water. they believe that taking a bath there will assist in achieving Nirvana.

You may even observe some Hindu and Buddhist shrines around the lake. This resembles Hinduism and Buddhism are tied to one another. Khayer Lake conserves a spirituality with its Hindu and Buddhist followers. Khayer Barahi Temple is another great aspect to visit Khayer Lake.

Which Is The Best Khopra Ridge Trek Itinerary?

This trail is one of the best off-the-beaten treks in the Annapurna Region. Yolo Hike designed the itinerary for those who want to enjoy the raw beauty of the Annapurna massif. The itinerary includes two fantastic Locations Khopra ridge and Khayer Lake.

The most attractive vista from the trail is Mt. Dhaulagiri. Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri are at a touching distance at nearby horizons. It is a must to do off the beaten trekking trail of Nepal.

If you want to travel a peaceful trail, the Khopra danda trek itinerary will provide you with the best value. This trek is the best alternative for Poon Hill Trek with a better view. Yet, some travelers are keen to trek both Khopra and Poon Hill. Contact us for trip details, booking prices, and customization.

How to prepare for Khopra Danda Trek

Preparation is ideal for trekking in high altitudes and difficult terrain. you should not prepare or train hard for the trek. the proper preparation at the right time will provide you a value. you can perform simple training to keep your body fit. you can start the exercise at least 5 months before your arrival in Nepal.

  • Pack your bag with a light weight of 5 to 8 kg and hike the nearby hills in your location.

  • You can perform jogging and running exercises to keep your Leg fit.

  • Cross-training is a great way to keep a body fit and mismatch your training with swimming, cycling, etc.

  • The squat can do great with your lower body, your lower body is the main aspect to prepare for trekking.

  • Yoga and spiritual exercise can be great. prepare your Lungs and high-altitude breathing.

  • You can join a gym to keep your body healthy.

Itinerary

  • Altitude1310m
  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast

Land in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel. Freshen up and meet with the company rep to discuss the upcoming trek to the Khopra Danda. After the meeting is over, the company guide will suggest a few places to visit during your free time here in Kathmandu.

  • Altitude1310m
  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast

Get up early to the hustle and bustle of the capital. Kathmandu valley has six UNESCO-listed world heritage sites. We’ll start our short-day tour by exploring Swoyambhunath, then move on to Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bouddhanath, Pashupatinath, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, and Patan Durbar Square. Please note, we can alter the chronology of these sites.

  • Altitude820m
  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast

Today, we’ll drive along the Prithvi Highway to cover over 200 km distance to get to the City of Lakes, Pokhara. Freshen up at the hotel and if time persists, we’ll boat at the Fewa Lake. Savour in the views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre peaks. Overnight in a hotel in Pokhara.

  • Altitude2610m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Wake up to the breathtaking views of the Annapurna peaks and enjoy your breakfast. After breakfast, drive for an hour and a half to make it to the Gurung village of Ghandruk. While at Ghandruk, explore the traditional Gurung museum and also the temples, if time persists. After lunch, we’ll move out of the village of Ghandruk towards Tadapani. Overnight at a local tea house in Tadapani.

  • Altitude3350m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Following breakfast, our trail takes us out of the village of Tadapani through a rhododendron forest. After a short climb, we’ll start descending along the ridgeline. Our hike again climbs uphill to Meshar Danda after a short while. Keep on the trail and after a short stretch, we’ll arrive at Dobato, AKA Bhaisi Kharka.

  • Altitude2975m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Climb uphill to get to Muldai Peak. The summit offers astounding views of the Annapurna massif. A short descent will take us to Lower Chitsibung. After a short while, we’ll climb uphill through a small forest to arrive at Upper Chitsibung for an overnight stay.

  • Altitude3660m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Ascent on a narrow forest trail to make it to Khopra Danda. After lunch, we’ll hike up to the Khopra Viewpoint to get astounding views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Machhapuchhre peaks. The viewpoint also offers great views of the Kali Gandaki River. Overnight in a local tea house in Khopra Danda.

  • Altitude4500m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Wake up to the views of the Annapurna massif. After breakfast, we’ll hike downhill for a short while before ascending on a steep trail to the sacred Khayer Lake. This lake is believed to be holy to both Hindus and Buddhists. Enjoy the tranquil lake and savour in the views of the Dhaulagiri and Fang peaks. Hike back to Khopra Danda and explore the local culture and lifestyle.

  • Altitude1190
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Leave the village of Khopra Danda behind and hike downhill to get to the Magar village of Narchyang. Explore the traditional Magar culture and lifestyle before descending again to arrive at the village of Tatopani. Enjoy the hot springs of Tatopani and rest for the day.

  • Altitude1310m
  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast

After breakfast, we’ll drive back to the lake city of Pokhara. After a while there, we’ll drive back along the Prithvi Highway to make it back to Kathmandu. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.

  • Altitude1310m
  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast

After 11 days of Khopra Danda Trek, it’s finally time to head home or off to your next destination.

Trip map

What's Included
  • All Ground Transportation by private Vehicle
  • 2 Night accommodation in Kathmandu in BB Basis in 3- Star category Hotel
  • 2 Night accommodation in Pokhara in BB Basis
  • Three times meal with tea/coffee (breakfast, lunch, and Dinner) during the trek
  • Best available accommodation in Tea House Lodge on a twin-sharing basis during the trek.
  • Snacks (Seasonal fruits) During Trek
  • Highly Experienced and Certified Guide and porter (2 trekkers:1 porter)
  • Trekking Guide and Porter Salary, Food, Accommodation, and Insurance
  • Kathmandu -Pokhara - Kathmandu by Tourist Bus (alternate flight can be taken with extra charge)
  • All entrance fees and taxes including Airport Tax
  • All Government Taxes and Services Charges
  • Down Jacket and Sleeping Bag by YOLO Hike
  • Duffle bag by YOLO Hike
  • First Aid Medical Kit
What's Excluded
  • Meals are not listed in the itinerary.
  • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Travel Insurance
  • International Flight Tickets
  • Nepal Entry Visa fee (Nepal entry Visa can be taken upon your arrival in Tribhuwan International Airport, Single entry Visa fee cost USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, and USD 125 for 90 days), For Arrival Visa you are requested two Passport size photograph
  • Soft Drinks including water and other beverage not listed in the itinerary
  • Snacks
  • Personal expenses like bar bills, laundry, and others
  • Personal Trekking Gears
  • Internet, Phone calls
  • Tips for Staffs

Additional Info

Best time to trek to Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake

Almost the trek in Nepal is best to trek during Spring and Autumn. The same applies to Khopra Danda Trek. Autumn season is the primary season to trek Khopra Danda. The daytime is pleasant and warm and trails are clear and marked. You will see a bright sky and an open view of the majestic Himalayas.

Spring is also an ideal month to trek. during your hiking period, the temperature fits the trekking presenting around 8 degrees. It is not too warm or neither cold. The trail starts to bloom with the rhododendron and Tundra's natural vegetation. you will start to smell the spring once you enter the trail.

You can also perform Khopra Danda and Khayer Lake Trek during the Monsoon and Winter. during this season trekking is a bit hard due to rainfall and landslides. you will also find that the view is often covered with thick rays of smoke.

How Difficult is Khopra Danda Trek?

Khopra Danda Trek is a shorter-duration trek. you will find this trek to be easy than Annapurna Circuit or similar treks. Yet, this itinerary is moderate if considering Khopra Danda and Khayer Lake ascend. These ascend takes you higher in altitude than ABC.

The initial trail follows the village and communities and the walk is pleasant. The uphill stair trail will start to make your feet heavy. After a day and some rest, you will adjust to the walk. Yet, some altitude gain will stroke you. you will feel heavy and ill, if this happens you will immediately contact the Guide.

The uphill ascends in Himalayan terrain are harder than anywhere else. you need the right preparation and ideal guides to lead you to the success of the Khopra Danda Trek. This trek is completely doable for beginners and intermediates.

Meals During Khopra Danda Trek

During Khopra Danda Trek we provide you with Healthy and Nutrients Foods. we provide you with three meals during your trek days: breakfast, lunch, and Dinner. The choices are Traditional Nepalese, Tibetan, Indian, Continental, and International cuisine. Though you have a limited selection of foods, these serve you best for your trekking.

You will get your meals in the Tea House. these Tea House won't provide you with spotless and the best taste of cuisine but good and hygienic food. you will somehow miss the taste and lose your preference for food in the Himalayas.

Accommodation During Khopra Danda Trek

Accommodation is standard when it comes to Khopra Danda Trek. Yolo Hike will provide you with the rooms on a twin-sharing basis. you can upgrade to a private room at an extra cost. Your accommodations are basic, clean, and cozy. The typical rooms have two beds, and some have an attached bathroom with no charging plugs.

You will get a hot shower during your stay and charge in the dining room. you need to pay extra for all these services and hardly charge at a speed like your home. you will find a large dining area in the Tea House where you can warm yourself and socialize with fellow travelers.

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