The Khopra Ridge Trek is a hidden gem tucked away in the quieter folds of the Annapurna region. A relatively offbeat route, it offers spectacular ridge-top views rivaling the popular Poonhill trek, but with far fewer trekkers. The highlight of the trail is the majestic Khayer Lake, perched at 15,700 feet, surrounded by towering snow-clad peaks. The trek is perfect for those who seek a moderate Himalayan experience that combines rich local culture with diverse landscapes and striking alpine scenery.
The journey begins in Pokhara and takes you through lush rhododendron forests, terraced farmlands, and quaint villages like Ghandruk and Tadapani, known for their strong Gurung heritage. From Dobato, the trail ascends toward the ridge-line, offering sunrise views over Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South from the famed Muldai View Point.
As you move to Chistibhang and Khopra Danda, you enter a realm of unmatched tranquility. The ridge trails offer stunning panoramic views, and with each step, the landscape turns more dramatic. The side trip to Khayer Lake is both physically demanding and spiritually rewarding, believed to be sacred by locals. The trail back descends through the charming village of Paudwar before finally reaching the hot springs of Tatopani—a perfect ending to soothe your trek-weary muscles.
Unlike circuit treks, Khopra Ridge is linear and relatively short in distance but rich in variation. With comfortable tea house stays, warm village hospitality, and a wide range of scenery—from forests to high ridgelines to alpine lakes—this trek is a perfect balance between adventure and accessibility. It’s ideal for those looking to explore the lesser-known side of the Annapurna region while still enjoying grand Himalayan vistas.
Day 1
Arrival in Pokhara
Drive Distance: ~210 km (Kathmandu to Pokhara)
Time Taken: 6–7 hours
Elevation Profile: 4,600 ft → 2,950 ft
The journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. You travel alongside river valleys and winding hill roads, passing traditional villages and subtropical landscapes. By afternoon, you reach the vibrant lakeside town of Pokhara—nestled below the Annapurna range. This day is about settling in, exploring the lakeside, and preparing for the journey ahead.
Day 2
Drive from Pokhara to Kimche ; Trek from Kimche to Gandhruk
Drive/Trek Distance: 3-hour drive to Kimche + 4.5 km trek to Ghandruk
Time Taken: ~6 hours total
Elevation Profile: 2,950 ft → 6,660 ft
After breakfast, you head out for a picturesque drive through Nayapul and Syauli Bazaar to Kimche. From here, you begin your trek. The trail ascends via stone staircases through lush forests and terraced farms. Ghandruk, a charming Gurung village, welcomes you with slate-roofed houses, Himalayan culture, and stunning views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare. It’s an ideal introduction to the beauty and hospitality of the region.
Day 3
Gandhruk to Tadapani
Trek Distance: ~9 km (Ghandruk to Tadapani via Bhaisikharak)
Time Taken: 5–6 hours
Elevation Profile: 6,660 ft → 8,530 ft
You leave Ghandruk on a forested trail that winds uphill through dense rhododendron and oak forests. Birds chirp around you as the sound of waterfalls echoes through the trees. You take a break at Bhaisikharak, a quiet meadow with filtered mountain views. The final stretch climbs gently to Tadapani, perched on a ridge. The sunset here paints Annapurna South and Hiunchuli in gold.
Day 4
Tadapani to Dobato
Trek Distance: ~8 km (Tadapani to Dobato via Isharu)
Time Taken: 6–7 hours
Elevation Profile: 8,530 ft → 10,135 ft
The trail continues through ancient rhododendron forests, some trees centuries old and towering. You gain altitude steadily as you pass Isharu, where yak herders sometimes set camp. After lunch, the route opens up onto a ridge-line walk to Dobato. Just above this tiny forest settlement lies Muldai View Point—offering 360-degree views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. You’ll have time in the evening to explore or relax in the cozy tea house.
Day 5
Dobato to Chistibhang via Muldai View Point
Trek Distance: ~7.5 km (Dobato to Chistibhang via Bayeli)
Time Taken: 5–6 hours
Elevation Profile: 10,135 ft → 9,500 ft
You start the day with an optional early hike to Muldai View Point for sunrise—where the golden peaks light up a stunning skyline. After breakfast, you descend gradually into pine and rhododendron woodlands, eventually reaching the open pastures of Bayeli for lunch. The route then skirts around hillsides to reach Chistibhang, a peaceful spot ideal for acclimatization and photography.
Day 6
Chistibhang to Khopra Danda
Trek Distance: ~5.5 km (Chistibhang to Khopra Danda)
Time Taken: 3–4 hours
Elevation Profile: 9,500 ft → 12,000 ft
From Chistibhang, the trail steadily climbs through open alpine terrain. The vegetation thins and snow-capped peaks begin to dominate every direction. Yak sightings are common as you approach Khopra Danda—a panoramic ridge camp with jaw-dropping views of Annapurna South, Nilgiri, Baraha Shikhar, and Dhaulagiri. The tea house here sits like a fortress above the clouds, making it a highlight stay of the trek.
Day 7
Khopra Danda to Khayer Lake and back
Trek Distance: ~15 km (Khopra Danda to Khayer Lake and return via Khayer Khola)
Time Taken: 8–9 hours
Elevation Profile: 12,000 ft → 15,700 ft → 12,000 ft
This is the longest and most demanding day of the trek. You start before sunrise with headlamps lighting the ridge trail. The high-altitude landscape is barren and mystical, dotted with cairns and shrines. After 4–5 hours, you reach Khayer Lake, a glacial lake sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. The lake lies in an amphitheatre of cliffs and peaks. After spending time in quiet reflection and a hearty lunch at Khayer Khola, you return to Khopra Danda by late afternoon.
Day 8
Khopra Danda to Tatopani
Trek Distance: ~11 km (Khopra Danda to Tatopani via Paudwar)
Time Taken: 6–7 hours
Elevation Profile: 12,000 ft → 3,937 ft
The descent is steep and sustained, taking you through forests, alpine meadows, and into temperate woodlands. You pass through the large village of Paudwar, known for its herbal medicine traditions and cultural homestays. After lunch, you reach Tatopani—a riverside settlement famed for its natural hot springs, where a soak awaits to relieve your muscles and celebrate your trek.
Day 9
Tatopani to Pokhara
Drive Distance: ~105 km (Tatopani to Pokhara)
Time Taken: 4–5 hours
Elevation Profile: 3,937 ft → 2,950 ft
Your final day is a drive back through the Kali Gandaki Valley. The road winds past waterfalls, orchards, and lively mountain bazaars. Once you reach Pokhara, the vibrant lakeside vibe welcomes you back to civilization. Enjoy a final group meal or relax by the lake, reflecting on the transformative days spent in the Himalayas.
Our Expectations from the participants
- Participants should have completed at least one multi-day Himalayan trek previously.
- Familiarity with trekking for 6–9 hours daily on uneven, hilly terrain is essential.
- Must be comfortable with high-altitude walking at elevations up to 15,700 ft.
- International participants must carry valid passports; we assist with required ACAP and TIMS permits.
- Basic understanding of altitude acclimatization is helpful, though our guides monitor participants closely.
Minimum Fitness Requirement
- Daily cardio endurance of at least 45–60 minutes (e.g., running, brisk walking, swimming, or cycling).
- Strength in legs and core, with the ability to walk long durations while carrying a 5–7 kg backpack.
- Trekkers must build hiking practice into their routine at least 4–6 weeks before departure.
- Mental preparedness for early morning starts, cold temperatures, and sleeping in remote locations.
Expedition Behaviour
- A cooperative, team-oriented attitude and willingness to support group pace and dynamics.
- Commitment to following your trek leader’s instructions during unpredictable weather or route challenges.
- Respect local customs, environment, and teahouse protocols.
- Bring curiosity and a sense of adventure to fully engage with nature and culture.
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₹39799 per person