Khopra Ridge Trek
Destination
Nepal
Duration
16 Days
Difficulty
Moderate
Max Altitude
2,800 m
Accomodation
Lodge/Tea House
Best Season
April-May, Jun-July, Sep-Oct-Nov
Trip Start
Pokhara
Trip End
Pokhara
Overview of Khopra Ridge Trek
The Khopra trek is one of the most awesomely beautiful untouched nature and newly opened territory for trekking sport. This trek is suitable for all opinionated trekkers. Parts of this trail are more strenuous while other parts are easier. The path goes through deeply lush thick pine, oak, rhododendron and bamboo forest with gorgeous vistas, crossing beautiful Magar, Gurung, Kami, Damai and Kshetri – Brahmin villages with its beautifully terraced farming lands. This trip can be done as a special combined tour and adventure hike up to Khayar Lake 4600m, the highest point, the most spectacular, picturesque and breath-taking views of snowcapped peaks and mesmerizing landscapes! On this trip you will have chances to observe real Nepali life styles (their culture, art of living and religion), stay together with the family at home stay, that’s why you have chances to share experiences with the families, hiking in the lush pristine forest with great vistas and the best place being far away of crowd and hectic boring life!! Another main thing to do on this trail is; very few tourists you see on the way, so it’s a quiet and peaceful trail also. Mountain views are just awesome, 180 degrees from Dhaulagiri 8167m, Annapurna I 8091m, Manaslu 8163 m etc…. + green high hills, rhododendron forest and the southern green slopes with terraced farming lands. Khopra Trek or South of Annapurna region is one of Nepal’s last Himalayan jewels; a glittering array of panoramas, gigantic peaks and peaceful nature awaits the adventurous explorer. However, as magnificent as the mountains are, it is perhaps the people of Nepal that are its greatest asset. Khopra trek is the diversity of ethno-culture, colorful festivals, temples and gompas, mixture settlement of friendly loving people. On this trip you will have chances to mix with those people and observe their lifestyle, culture and traditions. These things make this trip one of the best.
Trek to Mohare Danda, within the Annapurna region is definitely a new experience to the alternative route of Ghorempani for the trekkers that support Magar communities. It’s main purpose is to create sustainable economic stability by promoting tourism potentialities and possibilities in this area. Exploring the unexplored region, trekkers can enjoy the wonderful culture, nature, friendly people and stunning view of one of the longest chains of mountains. Mohare Danda (3300m) is the closest point to view the massive Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The Mohare Danda Trekking is the perfect alternative to the overcrowded Ghorepani – Poonhill Trekking.
Mohare Danda is the ‘high road’ alternative to the Ghorepani Trek, and follows an alternative trail up from Pokhara itself up to Banskharka, along to Nangi and Mohare. The treks are along scented forests of oak, rhododendron and spruce and sometimes along exposed ridges that offer exhilarating views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South dead ahead and the forked summit of Machapuchre to the east. You have a long circuit lasting a week to Dhankharka, or you can do a shorter five-day version fast-tracking through Tikot.
Mohare Danda Trek is an initiative of Magsaysay winner Mahabir Pun for developing a unique concept of eco-trekking that benefits the environment and development of the area.
Trekking in Annapurna Area, Poon Hill Trekking is a famous for short trekking who does not have enough holidays in Nepal, lies to northwest of Pokhara valley along Annapurna base camp trekking. Walking through the village, we see Magar and Gurung unique cultures and lifestyles. You are going to have the opportunity of talking to the native residents along the way who are known for their hospitality and warmth. It is one kind of experience to be one of them for a while and rejoice in their hospitality. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek starts the village with the river bank of the Modi River after short drive from Pokhara to Nayapul and keeps changing the settings as you ascend uphill, it transforms its natural landscapes from the river bank to the thick oak forests, rhododendron forests and from lush green grazing lands to the paddy field. It offer a variety of superb natural beauty from Ghorepani Poon Hill tower at 3210 mtrs, we see the spectacular views of the âfishtailâ spire of Machapuchare (6993m), Annapurna 1 (8091m), Dhaulagiri (8167 m) and Annapurna South (7219m) and many other peaks. We see unique settlements of Ghorepani and Ghandruk village where you can experience their rich culture and religion.
Highlights
- Short & Scenic Trek – Ideal for beginners and families
- Experience the rich cultural heritage of Kathmandu and the
- Serene beauty of Pokhara.
- Trek through lush rhododendron forests, crossing suspension bridges over the Modi Khola river.
- Stunning Sunrise View from Poon Hill over Annapurna & Dhaulagiri ranges
- Perfect Photography Opportunities – Golden mountain views and vibrant flora
- Spring Rhododendron Bloom – Trail bursts with colors during March–April
- Peaceful Trails – Less crowded than longer treks, yet equally rewarding
Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264ft)
Upon our arrival in the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, we will be greeted by a representative from Beauty Nepal Adventure who will drop us off at our hotel. After checking in,we take a rest or visit Nepalese Markets.We may also stroll in the streets of Thamel, a tourist hub in Kathmandu for some souvenir shopping. In the evening, there will be a welcome dinner hosted by Beauty Nepal Adventure.During our dinner, we will enjoy excellent traditional Nepalese cuisine.
Day 02: Fly to Pokhara (823m/2,700ft), trek to Ghandruk (1940m/6360 ft): 30 minutes flight, 5 - 6 hours trek
We take an early morning flight to Pokhara, the beautiful lake city and catch great views of the Himalayas from the right side of our airplane. After landing in the Pokhara airport, we drive to Naya Pul (1 hour and 20 minutes) and start the trek. From Birethanti, we trek to Ghandruk.
The Guide and porter will be waiting, and after a brief stop to stretch your legs while the porters organize the load, you will set off on the walk. You will walk through the busy trading post of Nayapul. You will cross a small stream via suspension bridge and continue on a dirt road before crossing the Modi River to reach Birethanti. At Birethanti your trekking permits will be checked at the Annapurna Conservation Check Post. You will continue to hike following the Modi Khola upstream, passing through settlements inhabited by the Chettris and Brahmins. On a clear day looming majestically in the distance, you will see Machhapuchhare (6993m). Soon you will reach the small hamlet of Shyauli Bazaar where you will stop for lunch. After lunch you will start the climb to Ghandruk. The trail gradually climbs out of Shyauli, and you will cross a steel suspension bridge. From here the trail climbs more steeply up stone steps through settlements of Klieu, Kimche and Chane, where one can see beautiful scenery and village life. From the small village of Chane the trail traverses and then climbs up to the village of Ghandruk, where you will stop for lunch and spend the night. Ghandruk is one of the biggest Gurung villages in the area, the difference in the Gurungs lifestyle here to that of their neighbours in the lower areas is very apparent. Ghandruk is well known for the number of its men folk who have served in the British Gurkha regiments. From the lodge at Old Ghandruk, you will have spectacular views of Annapurna South (7219m), Hiunchuli (6441m), Machhapuchare (6993m), and Hiunchuli (6434m). Stay overnight at Lodge.
Day 03: Trek from Ghandruk to Tadapani 4./5hrs
Another day ascending ahead, but the walk will be easier now that you’ve found your trekking legs! Leaving the terraced hillsides and the village of Ghandruk behind, you will enter oak and rhododendron forest. This is a particularly pretty part of the walk, the forest is alive with the sound of birds and small tumbling waterfalls, and if you visit in spring, (late March to April) the rhododendron will be in full bloom. There are no villages on today’s route, but there will be a few teahouses at Baisi Kharkha, providing welcome drinks and a place to rest. There will be fine views of Annapurna II (7937m), Annapurna III (7555m), Annapurna IV (7525m), Annapurna South (7237m), Machhapuchhare (6993m) and Lamjung Himal (6931m) along the way. Your lodge at Tadapani is the perfect setting for sunset and sunrise views. Stay overnight at Lodge.
Day 04: Trek from Tadapani to Bayli Kharka 5/6hrs
You will leave the main trail that leads to Ghorepani today and follow a rarely used trail – initially through thick rhododendron forest – that leads to local water buffalo pastures. The climb is gradual and soon you will emerge above the tree line to superb views of the Annapurna range. You will take lunch by a small stream and then continue to climb gradually though open countryside to reach a small pass, where the trail descends through rhododendron to an open clearing known as Bayli Kharka, and the lodge. From the lodge there are great views of Dhaulagiri Himal. Stay overnight at Lodge/Home-Stay.
Day 05: Trek from Bayli to Chistibung 6/7hrs
This morning you will descend through open ground and forest to reach the pastures of Lower Chistibung, where you will have lunch. After lunch you will continue to walk through forest, ascending gradually and passing through several buffalo grazing pastures to reach a clearing and temporary herder’s settlement at Upper Chistibung, where you will stay in the small community lodge. For the next week you will stay in lodges run by the local communities. We have contributed to the construction of these lodges, part of a series of projects designed to aid the local community. Being off the beaten track, the villages haven’t previously enjoyed the benefits of tourism. Now with the network of our Community Lodges, there are profits to benefit local projects and schools. Stay overnight at Lodge/Home-Stay.
Day 06: Trek from Chistibung to Kopra Ridge 4 /5 hrs
To reach the ridge at Kopra, you will embark on a steady climb that carries you above the tree line. This area is noted for wildlife, so you should keep your eyes open for Himalayan tahr and Danfe pheasant. The best way to tackle the climb is to ascend steadily, take your time and rest as often as you wish.
You will reach the lodge on Kopra Ridge in time for lunch and will be greeted by more awe-inspiring views. This extraordinary panorama includes Annapurna South, towering directly above you at only six kilometres away, with Fang and Nilgiri prominent to the north. Across the depths of the Kali Gandaki
Valley, the Dhaulagiri Himal dominates the entire western skyline. The Kopra Community Lodge is the highlight of our work in the region. Stay overnight at Lodge/Home-Stay.
Day 07: Khopra excursion trip
It is a very good idea to stay here for at least two days; you can take a beautiful day’s hiking trip to Khayar Lake at 4600m. This, however, is not recommended for every trekker, because it is a very long way to trek to the lake and come back the same way to Khopra. It takes a minimum of 7 to 8 hours as a round trip. But it is a good idea to go as far as Thanthi (around 4200m. high) and come back. At Thanthi, there are some shelters for yak herders and shepherds to stay in during the monsoon. Khayar Lake is very famous for Hindu belief; on the occasion of Janai Purnima , around the full moon of Saaun (July-August) the high caste men, Brahmin and Kshetri , must change the janai, which they wear looped over their left shoulder. So Janai Purnima brings crowds of pilgrims to this sacred Khayar Lake and many pilgrims come from India as well. There they garland a statue of Shiva and throw coins at a temple and into the lake. There are two places to make pooja, seven minutes before this lake and a temple, where hundreds of sheep and goats are sacrificed on the same occasion. The pilgrims sleep one or two nights at Thanthi, where the yak herders’ shelters are used to sleep in, but those are not enough for all these people. They bring large tents and set them up as shelter for many people and then they go up to the lake, making pooja, and it would be fantastic to take the Khayar lake trip. The views of nature’s beauty are mesmerizing!!
Day 08: Khopra Ridge to Swanta 6/7hrs
From Kopra Ridge you will descend off the hillside and continue steeply downhill. You will retrace the route back to Chistibung. You will then head to the village of Swanta, where you will stay overnight in the newly constructed lodge. We have supported the local school over the years, and there is time to pay a quick visit, and perhaps interact with the kids. Stay overnight at Lodge.
Day 09: Swanta to Mohare Danda View Point Trek 3/4 hrs
From Swanta you will descend through the village fields to a small river and take a quick look at the local water mill. From here you will cross the suspension bridge and head upwards to the villages of Chittre,Falate and Fulbari to Mohare Danda.
Today descend a bit on the other side, walk along a flat trail walk, then go up into the forest. There is a steep, grassy path along the ridge and finally you come to see the house of Mohare Danda. Still continue hiking along the ridge with Dhaulagiri and Annapurna and Manaslu for sunset vistas! And views of the surrounding forest and the mysterious, southern landscapes! Mohare Danda is a good place to take an extra day’s rest! Mohare Danda itself is a perfect natural towering ridge. It offers a spectacular 360 degree mountain view through the Dhaulagiri range ((8167m.) high, Annapurna range (8091m.), Manaslu Himal ( 8163m .) vistas of deep magical landscapes and magnificent sunrises and sunsets over the mountains.
You can even view them from your bedroom or fire- heated dining hall or you just can step out of the door to see them. There is a Community Lodge with 10 rooms and 20 beds. There is also a newly built porters’ house and two yak shelters. The Lodge has a fire- heated dining hall, the food is on the menu system, and Wi-Fi internet and solar light are available. There is a communal toilet and a hot bucket shower is available on request.
Mohare Danda is the ‘high road’ alternative to the Ghorepani Trek, and follows an alternative trail up from Pokhara itself up to Banskharka, along to Nangi and Mohare. The treks are along scented forests of oak, rhododendron and spruce and sometimes along exposed ridges that offer exhilarating views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South dead ahead and the forked summit of Machhapuchhre to the east.
Mohare Danda Trek is an initiative of Magsaysay winner Mahabir Pun who has developed a unique concept of eco-trekking that benefits the environment and development of the area.
Community Eco Lodge Trek – Mohare Danda Trekking
The Annapurna Dhaulagiri Community Eco Trek Trail, also called Myagdi Community Eco Trek Trail, Nagi Mohare Danda trekking community-managed Ecotrail was established in 2010 with the financial support of UNDP/MEDEP and village contribution. This is a unique trekking route in Nepal due to its objective to develop the community of Parbat and Myagdi Districts in order to support the education system of community based schools in the villages. The Mohare Danda Trekking is the perfect alternative view point sunrise choice of the Ghorepani Poonhill Trekking. Trekking to Mohare Danda is famous for village tourism and the trekkers will have a chance to stay in the local family run homestay and community lodges. The trek route offers you a mixture between fabulous landscape and great cultural experience. This is an “off-beaten” trek which gives you the opportunity to see the real Nepali life while walking in quiet and peace without the crowd that you can usually find in other trails.
During your trek, in each village you can visit the local projects and buy some of the local products. The benefits from your visit will reach the whole community and will not go to one individual person except some places. Mohare hill (Danda) at an altitude of 3300 meters is the main attraction of this Eco community trek trail offering splendid views of highest mountain ranges like Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan ranges can be viewed and also visitors can see the one of the best sunrise and sunset view from Mohare viewpoint. There are many options of itineraries for this trek but our below given eco community trek itinerary just Mohare hill (Danda) climb and trek end at Tiplyang . Overnight Mohare Danda.
Day 10: Mohare Danda to Ghodepani Poon Hill Trek 2800 Mtrs 4/5hrs
After breakfast We make our trip flat/descent way to Ghorepani village. will be walking through beautiful ridge Mohare to Phulbari & Poon Hill Viewpoint.The name Ghorepani in Nepali means horse-water owing to its role as an important campsite for traders before it became a trekker’s stop. Ghorepani is an interesting place with small shops and stalls for selling local products and craft. The town has two parts: one in a saddle and the other a few hundred feet lower. We stop at the higher part of the Ghorepani village that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains including Annapurna South and Nilgiri mountains. Since Ghorepani lies quite higher than our previous stop, we begin to feel the chilly weather especially in the evenings. Overnight at Ghorepani.
Day 11: Ghodepani to Tikhedhunga 5/6hrs
Early in the morning, 45 minutes hike to Poon Hill through the Rhododendrons forests for the spectacular view of Mountains like Mt. Dhaulagiri 8167m, TukuchePeak 6920m, Nilgiri 6940m, Baraha Shikhar 7847m, Mt. Annapurna I 8091m, Annapurna South 7219m, Annapurna III 7855m, Machhapuchhre 6993m, Annapurna IV 7525m, Annapurna II 7937m, Lamjung Himal 6931m and unobstructed view of sunrise over the mountains. We can enjoy a brilliant view of mountains and a sunrise view. Then we returned back to Lodge. After having breakfast, for the rest of the day it is all downhill. The walk passes through beautiful rhododendron forest and you will have lunch at the village of Nangethanti. In the afternoon you will continue to trek through the forest and for those trekking in late March or April the rhododendron should be in full bloom. You will arrive at Ulleri with plenty of time to explore this picturesque village. You will have lunch there and make the most of the day ahead. From the Ulleri there is a very steep descent of 500 meters on a stone staircase to the Bhurungdi Khola River where you will cross a small suspension bridge to reach the village of Tirkedunga. Stay overnight at Lodge.
Day 12: Trek from Tikhedunga to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara 4/5hrs
After giving your knees next day to recover, you will continue a more gentle descent to the village of Birethanti, we trek to Sudame,Ramghai and then down to Birethanti. this is beautiful valley to walking along Bhurungdi Khol ‘ Small Stream river.Which is river coming from Ghorepani/Poon Hill and another north side Annapurna region.About an 3 hour trek we arrive at NayaPul to Birethanti.We can have lunch at Birethanti.The trek ends at Naya Pul. From Naya Pul we drive by vehicle to reach Pokhara in about an hour.You will be transferred to your hotel.To celebrate the successful completion of our journey, we will have a farewell dinner in the evening at a typical Nepali restaurant.Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 13: Rest day in Pokhara
Rest and sightseeing day in beautiful city Pokhara
Day 14: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu: 7 hours ( If you wish then you can fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu )
Today, after breakfast, we made a 200 kilometers drive back to Kathmandu. Better to hold on the left side seat of the vehicle to enjoy the scenery through the route. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. There is nothing to do but trade emails with travel companions and organize the photos. You can spend the evening leisurely, perhaps catch up on some last minute shopping.Overnight at Kathmandu.
Day 15: Obverse the Kathmandu activities
Day 16: Final departure
You are saying goodbye to the mountains as your journey in Nepal comes to an end today! We take you to the airport for your flight time. We hope you enjoyed the trek, and are sure you will be back trekking somewhere in the Himalaya again. Approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight a representative from Beauty Nepal Adventure will take you to the airport. On your way home you’ll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.
Note :- This Itinerary is meant only as a guideline and is subject to change to suit the local conditions. Walking hours are based on an average walking pace and may change as per individual pace.
What's include
- Kathmandu Airport pickup and drop.
- As per itinerary accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- All accommodation and meals during the trek.
- Meal three times a day during the trek.
- Breakfast, Lunch & dinner.
- Land Transport for both way trek starting and trek ending Point.
- An experienced English-speaking Professional / Competent / Flexible trekking Guide.
- Porters service ( One strong & experienced porter service between two clients).
- Including their salary, equipment, transport, food ,lodging ,insurance etc.
- A comprehensive medical kit for Nepali staff.
- All necessary paperwork and permits.
- (ACAP) Annapurna Conservation Area Park Permit.
- (TIMS Card) Trekking Information Management System Card.
- Farewell dinner in the evening at Pokhara tricycle Nepali restaurant.
- Government Tax, Vat etc.
What‘s excluded
- Kathmnadu - Pokhara - Kathmandu flight tickets.
- Kathmnadu - Pokhara - Kathmandu bus tickets.
- Personal & medical insurance during the trip.
- Lunch, dinner and Accommodation in Pokhara and Kathmandu.
- Bar bills & beverages (like mineral water, coke, fanta , rum,beer etc.
- Tips for guide and porter.
- Personal expenses.
Essential Info
Suggested Equipment List
- Duffel/Rucksack bag
- Walking Pole
- Day pack.
- Trekking shoes.
- Sports shoes or sandals.
- Sun Hat/cap
- Warm woolen cap.
- Warm fleece jacket or puffy jacket
- Waterproof Gore-Tex layer
- Pullover or warm sweeter
- Raincoat
- 4/5 pairs of good quality socks
- Hand gloves.
- 2/3 pairs of trekking trousers.
- 3/4 pairs of trekking shirts.
- 3/4 pairs of underwear (non cotton preferred).
- Sun glasses
- Water bottle
- 4 season sleeping bag
- Flash or Torch light
- Camera and batteries
We at Beauty Nepal Adventure understand that every traveler has different dreams, schedules, and expectations when it comes to trekking and exploring Nepal.
That’s why each of our trekking itineraries is flexible and customizable. Whether it’s the duration of the trek, the destination, or the type of experience you’re looking for, we’re more than happy to tailor the journey according to your interests, time availability, and travel preferences.
If you have any specific wishes or suggestions, please don’t hesitate to share them with us. We are always open, friendly and generous when it comes to adjusting our programs to better suit your needs. Your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities.
Feel free to express your ideas without any hesitation. We genuinely welcome your input.
Thank you for trusting Beauty Nepal Adventure. We look forward to creating a beautiful journey together !
Namaste !
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