Khopra Ridge Trek-13 Days

Departure Date

01 Oct

Duration

13 Days

Views

1903

Maximum Seats

8

The Khopra Ridge trek route lies next to the popular Annapurna Sanctuary Route, and yet remains almost unnoticed. Khopra Ridge Trek is named after one of the many western spurs of Annapurna South. The iconic ridgeline of Khopra navigates the most beautiful and secluded trails and offers the best view of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, and Annapurna. The hike to Khayar Lake is the main highlight of the trek, as you walk under the shadow of Annapurna South, to holy Khayar Lake. The view from Mulde ViewPoint to Machhapuchhre, Annapurna Massif, and Dhaulagiri soares up your adrenaline and excitement and marks the perfect start of the trek. Walk past isolated yak and buffalo herds and try freshly made cheese and butter. Traverse through subalpine and Alpine forests to meadows and immerse into the Gurung and Magar culture in the villages of Ghandruk and Swanta. 

Drive to Ghandruk and follow the forested trail to Tadhapani. Following the trail towards the north, spend the second night in Dobato and hike to Mulde Viewpoint for sunset and an amazing mountain view. Walking downhill through the forest, spend another night in Chistibung and prepare for a climb to Khopra ridge the next day. Stay two nights in Khopra Ridge bagging one free day to hike to Khayar Lake. Descend to Swanta village through beautiful forest. Explore the village and trek to Banthanti via Ghorepani. Catch up the jeep and drive back to Pokhara. 

Highlights

Mulde View Point

Enjoy the sunrise over Annapurna Massif and Dhaulagiri, from up close.

Khopra Ridge

Spend two nights at a remote and peaceful ridge with breathtaking views from sunrise to sunset.

Khayar Lake

Hike to Khayar Lake, cradled amidst giant Annapurna through a beautiful trail.

Hidden Trails

Trek the trails that are still unspoiled by the imprint of trekking boots. The trails are not only isolated but also beautifully adorned by lush forests.

    Trip Facts

    Highest Elevation

    Khayar Lake: 4600m

    Trip Length

    13 Days

    Trekking Days

    7 Days

    Start/Ending point

    Kathmandu

    Difficulty Level

    Moderate to Difficult
    Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

    Kathmandu 1400m

    Welcome to Kathmandu, the valley of gods. Upon arrival, complete the visa process and proceed to the arrival terminal from where our staff will drive to your hotel. At the hotel, meet our team and get the information about the group meeting and dinner that will follow.
    Day 2: Drive to Pokhara

    Pokhara 820m

    Early in the morning you head to the tourist bus station and catch the bus. The bus drives through river valleys, terraced fields and roadside towns, and stops at a couple of places for meals and snacks. Upon reaching Pokhara, check in your hotel and take a short walk on the lakeside and have dinner at one of the restaurants. Overnight.
    Day 3: Drive to Ghandruk and Trek to Tadapani

    Tadapani 2610m

    Drive uphill on a weaving road to Naudanda, followed by a downhill section to Nayapul. Drive off road, following Modi River upstream and hit the trail, starting from Ghandruk village. After half an hour of uphill walk, we stop for lunch along with the view of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre. Ascend gradually through the mixed forest of Oak and Rhododendron. As we near Tadapani, the trail becomes more vibrant, fenced by Rhododendron trees adorned with moses. Overnight in Tadapani.
    Day 4: Trek to Dobato,, hike to Mulde View Point

    Dobato 3349m, Mulde 3637m

    Have breakfast with the beautiful view of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre in Tadapani and climb slowly to Meshar for a tea break. Continue following a path under a beautiful forest that occasionally looks animated. Have lunch at Isharu and climb a grassy trail, followed by a narrow gully and dotted forest. Upon reaching Dobato, hike to Mulde viewpoint for sunset and stunning vew of Annapurna Massif and Dhaulagiri. If the weather is not clear, we will give it a try next morning.
    Day 5: Trek to Chistibung

    Chistibung 3026m

    Follow a gentle grassy path, through Rhododendron forest to Bayeli, and have a tea break and prepare for a long descent to Chistibung. The trail meanders through colorful forests and crosses small rivers. Depending on the season of your trek, you might have a chance to stop by a Yak shelter and taste fresh cheese. Overnight in Chistubung
    Day 6: Trek to Khopra Ridge

    Khopra Ridge 3660m

    Find yourself enveloped by tranquility, as you wake up. We have a short distance to cover, so take your time and have breakfast with ease. Though the distance is very short, the intensity of the climb is high due to its steepness. Start climbing through forest and past Yak and sheep sheds, eventually reaching above tree line. As we approach the ridgeline, find Mt. Dhaulagiri standing right in front of you. Check in a community lodge and hike to the small view point at the end of the ridgeline.
    Day 7: Hike to Khayar Lake

    Khayar Lake 4600m

    Navigate the trail east of Khopra Ridge under the shadow of Annapurna South. Climbing gradually, we arrive at a small valley near Khayar Khola, and have lunch in a small tea house. Climb steeply on stone staircases to Khayar Lake, a holy lake among the local hindu community. The lake hosts hundreds of Hindu pilgrims and shamans during a festival in the month of August, where hundreds of sheeps are sacrificed ritually. Retrace the trail to Khopra Ridge and stay overnight.
    Day 8: Trek to Swanta

    Swanta 2200m

    Bidding goodbye to Khopra ridge we retrace the route till Chistibung then follow the downhill trail through beautiful forest. Cross a small river and waterfall and continue walking through the forest that seems to change its color every turn you take. Since there is no tea house en route, we will have lunch upon making it to Swanta village. After lunch, explore the village and its authenticity.
    Day 9: Trek to Banthanti and Drive to Pokhara

    Pokhara 820m

    Leaving Swanta village behind, we walk down a short trail to the river and cross it on a suspension bridge. Then ascend through small villages and Rhododendron forest to Ghorepani, followed by a downhill path to Banthanti. Catch a jeep and drive back to Pokhara. Enjoy the comfort and decent meals in Pokhara.
    Day 11: Free day in Pokhara

    Pokhara 820m

    Enjoy a well deserved free day in Pokhara. You can do activities independently, or simply enjoy walking by the lake side. If you have time, you can do a short yoga course in Pokhara or do jungle activities in Chitwan National Park.
    Day 12: Drive back to Kathmandu

    Kathmandu 1400m.

    Early in the morning you head to the tourist bus station and catch the bus. The bus drives through river valleys, terraced fields and roadside towns, and stops at a couple of places for meals and snacks. Upon reaching Kathmandu, check in your hotel. Overnight.
    Day 13: Trip Ends

    Kathmandu 1400m

    Your standard itinerary ends here. We will arrange a transfer for your departure if you are heading home. Or you can proceed on your own if you have any plans.

    Upper Body

    1 set of Base/Thermal Layer (Merino is ideal)

    1 mid-layer/Hoody (fleece or similar).

    1 Set of outer layer 

    2 sets of Merino Top.

    Waterproof trousers and top (gore-tex is ideal)

    1 pair of lightweight trekking trousers or zip-off pants.

    Fleece trouser

    Hiking shorts

    2 trekking t-shirts/shirts-merino is ideal

    Four Season Sleeping bag.

    Four Season Down Jacket.

    1 pair of liner gloves.

    1 warm wool hat.

    1 buff or similar.

    Sleeping bag liner

    Underwear.

    Feet

    1 pair of trekking boots (must be worn in).

    Sandals or hut shoes.

    1 pair of thick walking socks / 2 pairs of lighter walking socks.Running Shoes or sneakers.

    Toiletries

    Travel towel.

    Sun cream.

    Hand gel.

    Moisturizer.

    Lip Balm.

    Face Wash.

    Listerine mouthwash.

    Toilet Paper.

    Soap

    Shampoo

    Tooth brush

    Tooth paste

    Razor

    Optional

    Trekking poles.

    Personal medication and first aid kit.

    Power bank.

    Playing Cards.

    Book.

    1 small roll of repair tape, 1 sewing repair kit.

    1 small folding knife.

    Maps.

    Note and pen.

    Thermal Flask

    Permanent Marker

    Adhesive Hand or toe warmer

    Warm scarf

    Fleece Pants

    Blister sticker

    Difficulty Level

    The trek is leveled moderate to difficult characterized by its undulating trail that steepens quite often, and for the elevation

    Weather Condition

    The weather should be good if you do this trek in peak season. But having said that it is advisable to be prepared for rain, clouds, and snow as these factors can significantly impact your trek schedule. The weather has been pretty unpredictable for the past few years due to global warming. 

    Fitness Required

    Hiking with a backpack at least once a week, three months before the trip is recommended. Other exercises like jogging, running, and cardio regularly help you a lot.

    Best Season

    Any month between September to May but  September to November and March to May are considered best.

    Atmosphere of Trek

    As you hit the trail, the tapestry of the mule train, suspension bridge, quaint villages, and lush forest brings you lots of energy and excitement. Morning offers stunning views and fresh air while evening provides an opportunity to be social, by the fire talking to your fellow trekkers, playing cards, riddles, or other fun games. But the steep trails and cold tea houses can bother you at times. But try to get the best out of what is before you, and you will have the experience of a lifetime.

    A typical day in the mountain.

    A typical day begins between 8-9 am depending on the length you are to cover. After walking for a couple of hours, there is a tea break, followed by a lunch break at another place. Upon reaching the overnight lodge, check in your room, freshen up and gather in the dining hall, order dinner, and get it served between 6 to 7 pm. After dinner, you will get the briefing about the next day and play cards, riddles, and other fun games.

    What is the local culture like?

    Nepal has a diverse and rich culture that is heavily influenced by its history, and religion. As a tourist, you may encounter locals who approach you to chat, take pictures, or sell goods.

    The roads in Kathmandu are busy most of the time so you might get stuck in traffic jams whenever you take local transportation. It is not uncommon to see cows, and dogs in the middle of the roads, beggars around the temple, and street children in the streets of Thamel. Please refrain from giving money and food to these people. 

    The local vendors try to charge higher than the normal price. So make sure you have a good deal before you pay for whatever you want to buy. 

    However local restaurants have fixed prices for the meals they serve so no need to bargain the cost. 

    Local restaurants close after ten and bars but pubs remain open all night but it is good to go to bed before 10 pm. 

    Locals you meet in the pubs and bars are usually friendly and helpful but they can be rude sometimes depending on how you treat them. To stay safe, it is strongly advised that you remain sober and avoid consuming excessive amounts of alcohol.

    How to get the Visa?

    Your spending on this trip will depend on your personal preferences and appetite. As a general guideline, it is recommended to budget around US$25-30 per day for expenses such as meals, chocolates, showers, internet, and drinking water.

    How much do I need to budget?

    It’s recommended that you schedule your return flight for 2 days after the default itinerary ends. This allows for an additional day in Kathmandu after your trek. Or if you want to extend your trip to Chitwan then you can book the flight that fits your plan. 

    Do I need the photo for my visa and permit? 

    Yes, you need one for trekking permits.

    What should I do if my luggage did not arrive on my flight?

    File a report: Report it to the airline’s baggage service office at the airport. 

    Get a tracking number: Ask for a tracking number so that you can check the status of your luggage. 

    Provide contact information: Provide the airline with your contact information and the name and address of the hotel you are staying at. Keep the form: Make sure to keep a copy of the report you filed at the airline’s office in the airport. To be on the safe side it is advisable to pack essential trekking gear in your hand luggage on an international flight.

    What currency do I bring?

    Nepal uses the Nepalese Rupee as its currency. It is viable to carry NPR (Nepalese Rupees) to pay for the meals and other services you use along the way because all the prices for the services, meals, drinks, etc are quoted in NPR.

    You can bring US$/GBP/AUS $/Euro and exchange them at an exchange booth on every street. However, they don’t follow the rate published by the Central Bank of Nepal. 

    Make sure that the foreign currency notes you bring are not old, torn, or faded as it is difficult to exchange them.

    For better rates, you can go to the local bank in Kathmandu with your passport and it may take between one to one and a half hours, and they only do cash service till 3 pm local time. Saturday is a bank holiday and Friday is a half holiday. 

    Getting cash out of an ATM usually gives the best exchange rate but they will charge around $5 on each transaction. In a single day, you can withdraw NPR 100000 only but not more than NPR 35000 in one transaction. This means you have to make multiple transactions and on each transaction, you will be charged around $5. If you are planning to use cards to withdraw cash from an ATM booth, make sure to inform your card issuer that you will be using it outside Europe/America/Australia.

    How does drinking water work?

    Drink only treated or boiled water and avoid using bottled water. The best option is to bring a filter to treat the water so that the taste of the water remains natural. You can also bring purifying tablets but it ruins the taste of water.

    What can I rent in Kathmandu?

    Sleeping Bag and Down Jacket

    Back up fund

    The itinerary we have planned is subject to change locally due to unavoidable circumstances. In such an event, the extra cost incurred is subject to be covered by you. Unavoidable circumstances we generally categorize are:

    • Airport closure. 
    • Flight delay or cancellation
    • Extreme weather
    • Natural Disaster
    • Pandemic
    • Political Unrest, riots, and demonstrations. Road Closure due to landslides, broken bridges, accidents, etc. Health issues experienced by guests Common accidents that can occur such as slips and falls, ankle twists, etc. 

    How much does a porter carry?

    Please bring a maximum of 10 kg. per person to ensure porters are not given more than 20 kg to carry in total. 

    Can I store my unnecessary luggage at the hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara?

    You can store your luggage at the hotel free of cost. You will need to fill out a form provided by the hotel to store your luggage.

    Are there internet services available?

    You can get the wifi at most of the tea houses at an extra cost of $1/2 but the reception might be intermittent. 

    Do I get altitude Sickness?

    Trekking to Khopra Ridge, including a hike to Khayar Lake involves the very low possibility of getting AMS. There is no fixed way to prevent Altitude sickness as it can impact your body from various perspectives depending on your medical history, age, rest, food, and water intake. The general guidelines to avoid are to eat and drink properly, sleep well, avoid speeding up the pace, and have a positive mindset.

    Can I bring a drone?

    Taking a drone inside Sagarmatha National Park requires a permit from the National Park Authority and the government of Nepal. The process to obtain a permit is lengthy and costly. If you intend to bring a drone please let us know in advance so that we can begin the process. 

    Can I extend my stay in Pokhara?

    Yes, you can. Pokhara is a beautiful city and has so many things to offer. Please let us know in advance and we will arrange the accommodation accordingly.

    Can I extend my stay in Pokhara?

    Yes, you can. Pokhara is a beautiful city and has so many things to offer. Please let us know in advance and we will arrange the accommodation accordingly.

    What can I do to extend my stay?

    You can do multiple activities ranging from Paragliding to Bungee jump, or simply walking by the Fewa lake. You can also drive/fly south of Pokhara to Chitwan National Park to experience the diverse culture, terrain, and climate, and see the wildlife.

    Included

    Accommodations.

    Ground Transportation.

    Permits and National Park Fees.

    Guides and supporting staff.

    Tourist Bus between Kathmandu and Pokhara.

    Welcome meal.

    Excluded

    International Flights

    Visa Fees

    Meals

    Personal Insurance

    Personal Expenses

    Tipping and gratitude

    Extra Expenses due to unforeseen situation

    Drinking Water

    Accommodation

    All the accommodations are on a twin-shared basis. You will get standard accommodations with breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara. In the mountain tea house/lodges, accommodations are pretty basic with toilets and bathrooms shared. 

    How to get there?

    The trip starts and ends in Kathmandu so make sure to book the flight accordingly. You can book any flight you want that fits your trip’s start and end date. However, it is good to arrive before 3 pm local time so that you can make it to the group meeting and welcome dinner.

    Supporting Crew

    We make sure that every trip we run is led by a very experienced, professional, and friendly guide. All our guides are hand-picked, trained, and passionate about the outdoors.

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    Are you looking for a quote, or to customize this itinerary? Please drop us an email. 

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