Khopra Ridge Khayar Lake Trek

Khopra Ridge Trek – An off-beat trek to Nepal

Choosing trekking in Nepal is confusing because several treks lead you to different regions filled with exotic nature and stunning landscapes. Everest region and Annapurna region being mostly chosen trek, Nepal welcomes thousands of trekkers and travelers every year who wish to explore different corners of Nepal. Nepal is always rewarding with its astonishing natural beauty and unique historical places. Sometimes there is a wish to get lost in the mountains and just enjoy the serenity of nature without bothering about the destination. Walking up and down in the mountains gives the heavenly feeling that makes your heart pound for more and more pleasing sceneries. You walk on and fall in love with the mountains of Nepal.

The Khopra Ridge trek is one such trekking trail that is enjoyed by many trekkers and has loved the environment. It is an off-beat trek to Nepal that lets you have a close encounter with 22 big mountains in the world. Mt Dhaulagiri (the 7th highest) and Mt Annapurna I (the 10th highest) are the top 2 mountains in the world. Hold on, there are more namely Mt Nilgiri North and South, Mt. Ganga Purna, Mt Himchuli, and the ever-beautiful Annapurna massifs. The Khopra Ridge trek is a relatively new and less crowded trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Nowadays it is also selected as an alternative to the popular Annapurna Base Camp Trek. This trek to Khopra Ridge lets you enjoy the mesmerizing views of the Himalayas as well as gives you a chance to experience the local culture and way of life.

Ghandruk is the first village of this Khopra Ridge Trek. Starting from Nayapul of Pokhara, you will reach Ghandruk and then walk towards Tadapani with the amazing view of the sunrise along the soaring mountains. Heading towards Dobato, nature offers you more of its exotic charms. The view of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Himchuli from the Mulde viewpoint is fascinating and lets you indulge in the calmness. The Khopra Ridge Trek is a peaceful and quiet place, far from the crowds of other popular trekking routes. It is a comparatively less busy trek but is surely an excellent option for those seeking serene and crowd-free zone trekking. Khayer Lake is one of the highlights of this trek that is situated at 4660m. Accommodation wise as similar to other trekking routes and meals is mostly local Nepalese authentic foods. When you are in Khopra Ridge, always advisable to be adjusted for moderate to strenuous hiking and acclimatize yourself. Do not push ahead if you need to rest, take a day's rest and go further. It is the basic rule for all trekking to higher altitudes. 

The Khopra Ridge Trek is a beautiful and rewarding trekking experience that offers a chance to explore the natural beauty and culture of Nepal. It leads you to charming villages where you can experience local culture and customs. Most of all, once you reach the top of the Khopra Ridge, the views of snow-capped peaks towering above the lush green hillsides are heart-pounding. To have a clear view, it is recommended to travel during the months of March to May and September to November which are Spring and Autumn seasons respectively. Let’s get prepared for the adrenaline rush and get going to one of the astonishing places in the Annapurna region, the Khopra Ridge Trek.

Khopra Ridge Trek Highlights

• An off-the-beaten trek offering mesmerizing views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan ranges

• Opportunity to explore and discover the isolated areas of the Annapurna region

• An escape from the bustling towns to calm nature and pure nature

• Pleasant walk to the highest point of Khopra ridge

• Astonishing view of Khayer Lake at the foot of the Annapurna South

 Thinking about Difficulty level?

While grading the Khopra Ridge Trek, is easy to moderate and a perfect trek for novice trekkers and also for those who want to trek with families and friends with children or the elderly as well. Fitness always matters to trekkers. Every trekker needs a level of fitness but it doesn’t mean a novice trekker cannot go trekking without any training. So, if you are opting for any trek, it would be best to be in good shape with daily exercises or at least climb stairs without difficulty or brisk walks or jogs to improve your cardio. Maintain your pace and set yourself to walk for at least 6 hours daily and be able to ascents and descents. The highest point reached during the Khopra Ridge trek is Khayer Lake, at 4500m. So, one must be physically fit enough to attain this level without any health issues. It is always advised for trekkers to be prepared for the changes in high altitude such as headaches, fatigue, shortness of breath, etc. Better to practice hiking or walking or running or cycling daily before starting the trek. It helps improve your endurance and build muscle strength. 

Variations in Itineraries of Khopra Ridge Trek

Khopra Ridge Trek is among the few trails that can draw your attention to spend your holiday time in Nepal. The beauty of this trek is letting you explore around without maddening crowds. This off-the-beaten trek has 2 variations in reaching the Khopra Ridge. Nayapul is the starting point for many trekking to the Annapurna region. Being the main trailhead, there is frequent public transport such as buses and jeeps. 

1. By flight: The quickest way to reach Pokhara from Kathmandu is by flight which is about 25-30 minutes and offers stunning aerial views of the mountains. 

2. By road: Kathmandu and Pokhara are well-connected by roadways which take around 6-7 hours of road journey. The scenic views of the countryside are mind-blowing. Tourist buses and private vehicles are readily available for travel between the two cities.

Short Itinerary for Khopra Ridge Trek

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,593ft) - Transfer to hotel & Trip Preparation

Day 2: Fly to Pokhara  - 25 to 30-minute flight or Road trip to Pokhara about (6 to 7 hours)

Day 3: Pokhara to Kimchi (2 to 3 hours) then 6 to 7 hours trek to Tadapani (2,600m/8,528ft) via Ghandruk (1,940m/6,365ft) 

Day 4: Trek to Dobato (3,350m/10,990ft) - 4 to 5 hours trek

Day 5: Trek to Khopra Ridge or Khopra Danda (3,660m/12,006ft) - 6 to 7 hours trek

Day 6: Hike to Khayer Lake (4,500m/14,762ft) and return to Khopra Ridge - 8 to 10 hours trek

Day 7: Trek to Swanta Village (2,214m/7,263ft) - 5 to 6 hours trek

Day 8: Trek to Ghorepani (2,858m/9,376ft) - 4 to 5 hours trek

Day 9: Hike to Poon Hill for sunrise view, descend to Hile, and drive to Pokhara - 4 to 5 hours trek and 2 to 3 hours drive

Day 10: Afternoon flight back to Kathmandu, 1400m (25-30 minutes) or Early morning Road trip from Pokhara to Kathmandu  about (6 to 7 hours)

Day 11: Final Departure

Khopra Ridge Trek cost

The cost differs from trek to trek and depends completely upon the group's size and requirements. It is always kept in mind the budget, accommodation, and services chosen by the clients. Step on Himalaya always maintains their arrangements to a comfortable level with safety but also has the special needs and preferences of our clients, we customize the package as well.

Trekking permits such as TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) permit and ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) are essential to begin trekking in the Annapurna region. Regarding the accommodation and food during the Khopra Ridge Trek, it will be included in the package cost and managed accordingly. So, do not stress out about it. The salary and expenses of the trekking guide and porter also is included in the package as per the requirement of the trekkers. Thinking of more, transportation also is covered in the package cost but can vary depending upon the group size and the kind of transportation used. Extra expenses are snacks and drinks, internet usage, hot showers, extra bedding, tips, and souvenirs.