Ever wanted to explore the Annapurna region but with a kick of off-beaten trails where you can see not 1, not 2, but more than 20 countable peaks, including the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna massifs? Want to feel the serenity at its best while walking past the less crowded trails?
This is the Khopra Ridge Trek in Nepal, allowing you to enjoy a mirthful walk along terraced fields and charming old villages, encountering a rich tapestry of culture with every step. Residing at an elevation of 4,500 meters, the sacred Khayer Lake and the famous iconic Poon Hill await your discovery!
Detailed Overview
Khopra Trek is a newly introduced hidden treasure that runs through the corner of the Annapurna region. It is also referred to as Khopra Danda Trek by the locals, being introduced way back in time in 2009 A.D. Even though it has been a long year since its initiation, Khopra started gaining popularity in just 2012 AD after the government built the community lodges. That's what makes it a less explored trekking trail far away from modernization and of course! the only secret gem with a less traveled footprint within this world-renowned region.
In present days, Khopra Ridge Trek is a hot trending destination among the youths, beginners, and family that lets you get an experience of remote trails where several glorious Annapurna ranges such as Annapurna South, II, III, Dhampus, and Tukuche Peak befriend you in every step. Not only that, it also lets you witness the valley of the world's deepest gorge- Kali Gandaki with a blooming rhododendron in the vibrant tone of red and pink making the hike serenely peaceful with a perfect crisp of nature surroundings.
Right from the start, the Khopra Ridge Trek route passes along the pristine wildlife and flora as we enter the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area)- said to be the home of more than 300 species. Here, we might even get to encounter endangered wild creatures such as the elusive Red Panda, Himalayan Tahr (wild goat), and many more. Do you know that Danfe (Himalayan Monal), Nepal's national bird said to resemble what real beauty and grace look reside here? For bird watchers and keen wanderers like you, it’s a dream come true adventure.
Our 7-day Khopra Ridge Trek itinerary begins with a jeep ride from Pokhara to Ghandruk then we'll trek towards Tadapani. Staying a night there in this famous tiny settlement we will immerse ourselves in the rich hospitality of the Gurung community. Leaving the village behind, we will ascend to Bayeli Kharka- entering the Khopra ridge area that begins to give authenticity to this trek with only a few settlements of local tea houses providing a homely cozy environment to us.
Leaving Bayeli Kharka, we move towards Khopra Danda (Khopra Hill) on the third day from where the first glimpse of the world's 7th highest peak Mt. Dhaulagiri with surrounding other peaks welcomes us rising highly in the clear sky.
Next day in the morning we will head upwards to the sacred holy of none other than Khayer Lake (4500m.), where the sparkling twinkling lake with several Himalayan peaks can be seen. Paying a visit to the holy pilgrimage site following the Hindu and Buddhist religion we can truly feel the rich essence and vibration of this shining lake. We'll also visit the Khayer Barahi Temple with just a few minutes away from this site. Retracing our step back we'll spend overnight at Khopra Danda once again to gradually adopt the rising altitude.
While we may perceive it is the end of the captivating voyage! we'll go to the Swanta village- popular for its cheese factory of yaks and the rich culture of the Magar community. It is also referred to as "Swiss-like cheese in the Himalayas" by locals.
On the 6th day, we'll go downhill to Ghorepani following a well-maintained path from where many other famous trails like Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trail get connected. On the last 7th day, we'll do a morning hike to the Poon Hill View Point and witness the sunrise view over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges while sipping a cup of coffee, a perfect way to conclude the trip. Our adventure of Khayer Lake Khopra Danda ends after getting back with a drive to Pokhara via Nayapul (New Bridge).
Special offer!!!! Although this trip starts right from Pokhara. If you are in Kathmandu let us know we'll provide a free transportation facility without any additional cost of extending days. On top of that, if you are a family of above 3 members willing to do this trek then, we will provide you 10% off. Destination Himalaya Team highly believes in making you tick off your bucket list in the best way possible. Grab this deal and make your way to the himalayas with us.
Major Highlights of Khopra Danda Trek
- Get an adventurous walk along the Annapurna region on a less crowded trail and authentically raw paths
- Enter the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area) feeling the serenity of pristine flora and fauna amid the Himalayas from the beginning of the hike
- Pay a visit to the sacred Khayer Lake rising at 4500 meters elevation believed to be the adobe of the Hindu God "Lord Vishnu" in the form of the Barahi (Boar) deity
- Witness the panoramic views of several Himalayan peaks such as Dhaulagiri, Fishtail, Tukuche, and Dhampus peaks rising beautifully from the Khopra Danda View Point
- Stroll around the Swanta village trying a delicious variety of "Yak Cheese" immersing in the culture of Gurung and Magar communities
- See the yaks and buffalo grazing in the terraced fields of mustard or rice with the backdrop of mountain views
- Ascend to the Poon Hill View Point- 3210 and reward yourself with the golden sunrise view over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
- Encounter the valley of the world's deepest gorge Kali Gandaki
- Savor yourself with the "Hot Yak Blood" if the trek is during the festive of "Janai Purnima" - which falls in August
What makes the Khopra Ridge Trek special?
There’s no doubt how rich significance the Annapurna region of Nepal holds, whether it’s a cultural immersion, the vista of glorious mountains, or the crisp, soothing air coming out of these great Himalayas. However, every day, there are hundreds of packages popping out of this region, trying to cater to everyone's taste and time duration.
Due to this, it might be a head-scratching total confusion to know whether the Khopra Danda Trek is worth giving a shot or not. If you are wondering such, Then you are at the perfect place with a top-notch itinerary to make everything enthusiastic trekker like you experiencing the raw version and authentic version of the Annapurna trail. So, to answer the curiosity of what makes this trip unique and special amongst all, here are the short little descriptions about each famous spot that you are going to explore during this 7-day Khopra Ridge Trek in Nepal.
Discovering Khayer Lake: A holy sacred gem at 4500 meters
Khayer Lake is also highly recognized as a Baraha Lake which means "Boar" in the Sanskrit/Hindu language and is highly associated with one of the forms of the Hindu God "Vishnu". Wondering how this holds a rich cultural holy significance? It is said that, if you shower here or take a dip at this holy Khayer Lake then, all the sins will be washed away.
Many individuals across the globe following Hinduism and Buddhism come to pay a visit here just to witness this sparkling sacred lake. Located in the district of Baglung, it mainly attracts tourists to witness the "Yak drinking tradition" Yes, you heard it right! At the time of Janai Purnima (falls in August) thousands of people came here to drink the hot yak blood that is said to purify the soul and provide good fortune.
Besides being a holy gem, it serves as a heavenly place with the sparkling lake reflecting on the shadow of surrounding Himalayan peaks such as Annapurna I, Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri, and many others. Just imagining it feels like a mystique land so, who wouldn't want to feel this once-in-a-while opportunity? Of course! everyone that's what makes this gem hidden treasure truly special.
Poon Hill: The Legendary viewpoint of Annapurna region
Ever heard of Poon Hill Trek where people come to Nepal for 4-5 days just to witness the sunrise views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges? Well! In this Khopra Ridge Trek itinerary, we'll cover this place as well. Waking up early in the morning and ascending the stone staircase that feels like a way to paradise, we will reach the Poon Hill View point. Residing at an elevation of 3210 meters, with the golden sunlight painting not 1, not 2 but 19 countable peaks views of Mt. Annapurna south, Mardi, Dhampus Peak sipping a cup of tea witnessing it feels like a dream come true.
Rich Cultural and Tradition diversity
While we may think that Khopra Trek is all about eye-captivating beauty, the unchanged culture of Gurung and Magar will surprisingly amaze us. The best part about this journey is that we'll be accommodated at the tea houses run by none other than locals. As community lodges are only available up there unlike modern trails like Ghorepani and Tadapani. After we enter the Khopra Danda Ridge area we'll see the unchanged version of locals residing in the Himalayas. We can get a lively experience of what local foods taste like, how these Gurung family are running their life just by harvesting crops, and see their lifestyle on the backdrop of mountains with the buffalo and yaks grazing on terraced fields.
Exploring Ghorepani- A Heart of Annapurna trails amid the Himalayas
Nestled at the midpoint of other famous trails like Mardi and Annapurna Base Camp, this Ghorepani tends to win everyone with its heart anyone trailing along the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area). It is a famous stop point everyone prefers due to its rich culture and the finest portion is the "home of locals here on the same pattern made in white clays with the roof of dry leaves" which seems like an ancient town straight out of 90's. The fascinating part is the soul-stirring hospitality of the Gurung people residing here and we can even try their traditional customs and jewels to make our trip memorable.
Ascending to Khopra Danda View Point (3660 m.)
Just visualize being in serenity with the 360 panoramic views of Annapurna massifs such as Annapurna II, and Annapurna III along with Dhaulagiri massifs, sound heavenly? This is the Khopra Danda View Point where the snowcapped peaks wrap you and the red and pink rhododendrons bloom beautifully rewarding white mountains with vibrant shades of colors. It is also said by the locals once you visit this vantage point, you'll forget any other high altitude points as the peaceful, hidden place far away from crowds makes it even more precious.
Why Trek with Destination Himalaya Treks?
Having said that "No one can make you feel the thrill of adventure and the significance of special places without experiencing them for themselves". Just like that, we have been providing services to hundreds of enthusiastic hikers like you in the spots that we actually went to. We have known by far every hidden corner of the Annapurna region and our DHT family ensures that you explore every one of them.
We've customized this Khopra Ridge Trek itinerary with proper famous spots without extending many days and budget. Not to forget! with one proper rest/acclimatization day so, you don't rust out and panic yourself which could lead to altitude sickness.
Our guides and porters are medically equipped, and registered, from the local places so, that not only ensure your safety but also make sure that you are visiting the right spots and of course! they will detail explain to you making the journey even more fun.
Benefits of Choosing Us
- Great family discount of up to 20% valid for early bookings
- Trekking company cap, t-shirt, duffle bag, and trip completion certification
- No hidden charges and an easy payment system
- Oximeter (to check oxygen level) and Basic Medical Kit
- Farewell Dinner with cultural program in Kathmandu or Pokhara
- Unlimited luggage storage facility at KTM or Pokhara
- Trip Briefing before and after booking
- Free Airport Shuttle (Free departure and arrival by private vehicle)
