- TRIP DURATION
- 10 Days
- MAX. ALTITUDE
- 4750 m/ 15584 ft.
- TRIP GRADE
- Moderate
- LODGING
- Hotel & Tea House
- BEST SEASON
- Springs and Autumn
- MEALS
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- COMMUNICATION
- Wi-Fi/ Local SIM Card
- PER DAY WALK
- 5 to 6 Hours
Khopra Danda Trekking
Khopra Danda trek, popularly known as Mohare Danda Khopra Ridge trek, is one of the best newly opened short treks in the Annapurna region.
The craggy trail passes through beautiful rhododendron, pine, and oak forests and some ethnic villages of Gurung, Magar, and Chhetri, giving you the opportunity to learn the lifestyle, traditions, and cultural facts of the locals.
One of the most important attractions of this Mohare Danda Khopra trek is to explore the three best viewpoints: Mulde viewpoint, Khopra Ridge viewpoint, and Poon Hill viewpoint, in a single trip.
Location of Khopra Danda Trekking on the map of Nepal
Khopra Dands trekking is a beautiful viewpoint located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Situated in the Southwest of Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trekking area and north of Pokhara, it offers a panoramic view of various mountains in the region. You can see the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Machhapuchhre mountains from one of the three viewpoints.
Khopra Danda Trek Overview
Trek the newly opened route to Khopra Danda, which is a spectacular destination that gives you deep satisfaction and probably makes you fall in love with it.
Khopra Danda trekking offers a beautiful view of blooming rhododendrons, awe-inspiring landscapes, and magnificent snow-capped mountains. Mainly, the vibrant environment during the spring season gives you deep satisfaction.
The sunrise, from any viewpoint, is the major highlight of the Khopra trip. Also, with just about an hour’s hike to Ghorepani Poon Hill, you will be able to see 360-degree mountain views and vistas, especially at dawn.
Khopra Danda Trek Facts
Duration of the trek: 10 days
Beginning/Ending Point: Pokhara
Trek Beginning Point: Naya Pul
Trek Ending Point: Hille
Maximum Elevation: 4660 meters at Kayer Lake
Best Season to Visit: Autumn and Spring
Accommodation: Teahouse/Guesthouse/Hotel
Transportation: Private Jeep/Public bus/Flight
Trek Category: Moderate
Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), TIMS
Cost: $780
Highlights of Khopra Danda Trekking
- Off the beaten trail of the Khopra Ridge Trek.
- The sacred water of Kayer Lake is situated at 4660 meters.
- Ravishing mountain and sunrise views from Khopra Ridge.
- Enjoy the best three viewpoints in a single trip – Mulde viewpoint, Khopra Danda viewpoint, and Poon Hill viewpoint.
Documents for Khopra Ridge Trek
- A copy of your passport
- A copy of your flight ticket
- Two passport-size photos
- A copy of your travel insurance
- Emergency contact details
What’s Most Exciting About Khopra Ridge Trek?
Khopra Dhanda, or Khopra Ridge, is known for the best view of Mount Dhaulagiri (8167 m/26,795 ft), the World’s 7th highest peak. Along with Mt. Dhaulagiri, you can see Annapurna I, II, III, and the South, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, Nilgiri, and Lamjung Himal.
Although it is an optional hike from Khopra Danda to Kayer Lake, we suggest you not miss being amused by the panorama of towering mountains and delightful landscapes. In addition, Kayer Lake is famous for Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimages as they believe the water of Kayer Lake to be sacred.
Near the lake of Mohare Danda Khopra trek, Kayer Barahi temple is also located. The temple and the lake hold a religious significance for millions of people.
It is believed that taking a bath or just dipping their hands into the lake and praying to the idol of the Barahi temple helps cleanse them of all diseases. Eventually, by doing so, they believe that their soul is led to Nirvana (heaven) after death.
The day to hike Kayer Lake will be one of the most challenging days of your trip as it gains more altitude (nearly 1000m), and you need to walk 7 to 8 hours to ascend to the lake and descend to Khopra Danda overnight.
Culture and Wildlife
Khopra Danda trek is a new trek route in the Himalayas of Nepal. But you will be amazed to see the local culture and traditional people around the Khopra area. Along with culture, you will be able to see a wide range of wildlife.
Landscapes
The landscapes during the Khopra Danda trek vary with the change in altitude. You can see dense, lush rhododendron forests, terraced farmlands, and a beautiful mountain range when you are on the trek.
The trekking trail goes via an alluring rhododendron forest in a rocky mountainous region. As you move to higher altitudes, you can see terraced farmlands with local villages.
The Khopra ridge and viewpoints are the major attractions of this region.
Wildlife
You can see a wide range of wildlife when you are on the trek. You can see a few domestic animals in the lower region of Khopra. In contrast, as you ascend, you will see numerous bird and animal species.
You might be able to see musk deer, langur monkey, wild boar, Himalayan Tahr, and many more. If you are lucky enough, you might be able to see a black bear.
Likewise, you will be seeing various bird species such as Danphe (Himalayan Monal – the national bird of Nepal), blood pheasant, vulture, eagle, etc.
People
The people on the Khopra Danda trek traverse via different villages. In the lower regions, you might encounter Brahmin and Chhetri people. However, as you trek to higher regions, you can experience the Buddhist culture and the Gurung and Magar communities.
Khopra Danda is situated in the Annapurna rural municipality, with a total population of 1825 (975 males and 850 females).
Culture
The people living in the Khopra region are typically Gurung and Magar. They are one of the most hospitable communities in Nepal.
You can explore their cultural tradition through their livelihood, language, dance, and festivals. They celebrate various festivals such as Lhosar, Maghi Sakranti, Dashain, and Tihar.
A festival, Jatra, which is celebrated during Janai Purnima in Khayer Lake, in Khayer Temple, is one of the most exciting festivals.
Khayer festival is lesser-known yet holds significant spiritual importance in the Khopra region. During this festival, animals are sacrificed to the Goddess Durga. Also, freshly extracted blood by piercing a small hole in the sheep’s neck is drunk. Doing so is believed to give strength and even cure some diseases.
A Typical Day on Mohare Danda Khopra Danda Trek
Mohare Danda Khopra Danda Trek is a blend of serene nature, cultural immersion, and adventure. Every day, you will wake up with a gentle sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountain ranges.
You will then have a delicious breakfast at 7 am and start trekking at around 8 am. Each day, you will be amazed to see a vibrant rhododendron forest during its blooming season and a high mountain view in the foreground. On rare occasions, you might even experience snowfall.
Then, after walking for 1 or 2 hours, your guide will find a beautiful location with a teahouse for a short break and a warm tea/ coffee made of buffalo milk. Again, continue to walk for an additional 2 hours and stop for lunch at around 11 am to 12 pm.
With an invigorating lunch, we will head towards our day’s destination. Throughout the journey, feel free to stop anywhere to capture stunning scenery and rest. Finally, you will reach the teahouse, where you will stay overnight at about 3 or 4 pm.
Upon arrival, order your food for dinner and maybe for breakfast for the next day. You can have your dinner at 7-8 pm, and after that, your guide will give a briefing about the next day’s trek. Ultimately, end the day of Khopra Danda trekking at around 10 pm and go to sleep.
Notes to Remember for Khopra Danda Ridge
- Airport pickup and drop-off are provided by Himalayan Masters, with additional amenities.
- You will be visiting 3 major viewpoints during the trek: Mulde Viewpoint, Khopra Ridge Viewpoint, and Poon Hill Viewpoint.
- All the meals, accommodation, permits, and transport costs are included in the trip package.
- A porter can be shared with other trekkers if you have less weight, i.e. less than 12 kg. A porter can carry up to 26 kg.
- Although having travel insurance is not compulsory, it is better to have it.
- There are no ATMs or banks on the trek route, so remember to carry enough Nepali cash for the trek.
- You are not allowed to bring a thermos to Poon Hill Viewpoint.
- Listen to your guide at all times for a safe and comfortable trekking experience.
Mohare Danda Khopra Trek Itinerary
The Mohare Danda Khopra Trek itinerary includes a visit to Kathmandu and Pokhara before and after the trek. Kathmandu offers a cultural and historical perspective of Nepal, whereas Pokhara serves as a gateway for several Himalayan treks and is a naturally beautiful location.
Inclusion of a day in a popular tourist hub, Pokhara, to explore more about the mystery of Nepal. It complements the experiences that you get from the Khopra Trek itinerary.
Another important thing to remember is to travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara or vice versa. There are various options for travelling from Kathmandu to Pokhara. This 200 km distance can be a great experience for you whether you choose the roadway or the airway.
ITINERARY
Day 01: Drive to Nayapool and Trek Nayapool to Ghandruk
Drive Route: Pokhara → Nayapul
Trek Route: Nayapul – Birethanti – Chimrung – Syauli Bazar – Kimche – Ghandruk
Beginning Point: Pokhara
Trek Beginning Point: Nayapul
Ending Point: Ghandruk
Lunch: Syauli Bazar
Pokhara to Nayapul Distance: 42 km (26 miles)
Nayapul to Ghandruk Trek Distance: 11 km (6.5 miles)
Total Ascent: 1118 meters (3668 ft.)
Overnight: Ghandruk
After having an appetizing breakfast in one of the best hotels in Pokhara, our vehicle will receive you from the hotel and take you to Nayapool, where the Kopra Ridge trek itinerary officially begins. A nearly two-hour drive offers you a pleasant experience with stunning mountain views and beautiful nature.
The distance of 42 km from Pokhara to Naya Pul is an amazing journey. You can request your driver to slow down or stop the vehicle to capture the scenery.
After a short break and tea/coffee, your trek starts to Ghandruk. The trek route passes through beautiful villages like Birethanti, Chimrung, Syauli Bazaar, and Kimche. The picturesque landscapes, waterfalls, amazing fields of rice and suspension bridges along the trail will be the assets of the trip.
After trekking for about 30 minutes, approximately 1.5 km, you will reach Birethanti and have your permits checked. Then, with an additional 1.5-hour trek, we will stop at Syauli Bazar for lunch.
With the breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and lunch, we will head towards Ghandruk. Ghandruk is 2 hours trek from Syauli Bazar via a steep uphill route.
Ghandruk is considered to be the trekkers’ paradise in the Annapurna region. You can visit the Gurung Museum and the handicraft centre, exploring the Gurung culture and tradition overnight in one of the fine teahouses.
The trail then passes through the oak, pine, and rhododendron forests. The suspension bridges, amazing waterfalls, and rivulets add extra charm, making you forget all the tiredness.
Brief About Syauli Bazar
Syauli Bazar is a small local village on the Khopra trek. The village is situated at an elevation of 1220 meters, which offers a beautiful view of Fishtail Mountain and the surrounding rhododendron jungle.
There are about 8-10 basic teahouses serving delicious food and a warm bed to rest.
About Ghandruk
Ghandruk is a traditional Gurung village in the Annapurna region. It is one of the most popular Gurung villages, and you can experience its culture. You can enjoy their warm hospitality and stay in one of the local’s homes. You can even dress in their traditional dress and dance with them during the festive season.
From the village, you can see various panoramic vistas, such as Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Gangapurna, Hiunchuli, etc., from here.
Teahouses in Ghandruk
- About 20 teahouses
- Attached bathroom
- Wi-Fi, hot shower, heated dining hall
- Charging plug in room
Meal : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation : Tea House
Walking / Driving : 1.5 hours driving and 5 hours walking
Day 02: Trek from Ghandruk to Tadapani
Trek Route: Ghandruk → Bhaisi Kharka → Tadapani
Beginning Point: Ghandruk
Ending Point: Tadapani
Lunch: Tadapani
Ghandruk to Tadapani Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
Total Ascent: 690 meters (2264 ft)
Overnight: Tadapani
After waking with a beautiful view of the mountains, you will have breakfast at around 7 am and start trekking at 8 am. After walking for about 2 hours, you will reach Bhaisi Kharka. The trek route goes to through the beautiful rhododendron jungle, artistic villages, and scenic farmland.
There are 2 basic teahouses in Bhaisi Kharka. You can enjoy some snacks or have lunch amidst a dense rhododendron forest. Finally, head towards the day’s destination, Tadapani. Tadapani is a 1.5-2 hour trek from Bhaisi Kharka, about a 2 km trek on a sloppy uphill trail.
About Bhaisi Kharka
Bhaisi Kharka is a local village with just a few houses. Here, you can drink milk from buffalo and other milk products. It is just a tea break spot for the trekkers en route. But you can also spend the night here. The teahouses here are cheap, with no attached bathrooms, serving satisfactory food from the menu.
About Tadapani
Tadapani is a popular traditional village in the Annapurna region. The village, situated at 2630 meters (8629 ft), offers an awesome view of Annapurna South and Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Fishtail mountains.
Additionally, you can see different plants and animals around here. Animals like buffalo, leopard, monkey, Himalayan Tahr, jackal, and black bear can be seen occasionally as a few varieties of birds.
Teahouses in Tadapani
- 8-10 good quality teahouses
- Attached bathroom and charging plugs in the room
- Single, double, and dormitory rooms
- Chicken meat, pork and mutton can occasionally be eaten
Meal : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation : Tea House
Walking / Driving : 3 hours
Day 03: Trek from Tadapani to Dobato
Trek Route: Tadapani → Meshar → Isharu → Dobato
Beginning Point: Tadapani
Ending Point: Dobato
Lunch: Isharu
Tadapani to Dobato Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
Total Ascent: 719 meters (2359 ft)
Overnight: Dobato
After you have your breakfast in the teahouse, you will begin the trek to Dobato. It is a nearly 6-hour hike, though the distance is only about 7-8 km. If the day is clear, you can enjoy the superb views of the Annapurna range and Fishtail along the trail.
The trail from Tadapani to Dobato is a more remote area of the Annapurna region that passes through the rhododendron forest. The unique local villages, various flora and fauna, and the magical atmosphere are the attractions of this off-the-beaten-path section of the Khopra Trek Itinerary.
The trek route follows sloppy uphill for about 2 hours until Meshar. There onward, it’s a steep uphill trek to Dobato.
After a 5-6 km long trek from Tadapani, we will stop at Isharu for a quick lunch. You can enjoy your meal with the beautiful rhododendron jungle view around you. Then the trail takes a little harder trek for about 2 hours, covering 3 km, to each Dobato, where we will stay overnight.
About Isharu
Situated at an altitude of 3137 meters (10,292 ft) elevation, Isharu is a local village in Mohare Danda Khopra trek. It is just a place for lunch, with a beautiful, vibrant rhododendron forest all around during its blooming season.
About Dobato
Dobato (3349 m/10,987.5 ft) is a beautiful local village. There is nothing much to visit around. So you can rest and acclimate to the increasing weather. However, you can wake up with a beautiful mountain view and views of valleys below the mountain.
Teahouses in Dobato
- 3 basic teahouses
- There is no attached room or charging plug in the room
- Wi-Fi, hot shower, and hot water cost an additional charge
Meal : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation : Tea House
Walking / Driving : 5 hours
Day 04: Trek from Dobato to Chistibung
Trek Route: Dobato → Mulde Viewpoint → Dobato → Bayali → Chistibung
Beginning Point: Dobato
Ending Point: Chistibung
Lunch: Bayali or Chistibung
Trek Distance: 12-13 km (7.5-8 miles)
Total Ascent: 288 meters (945 ft) up to Mulde Viewpoint
Total Descent: 611 meters (2005 ft) from Mulde Viewpoint to Chistibung
Overnight: Chistibung
Today’s destination of the Khopra Nepal trek is Chistibung, at an elevation of 3026 meters. Also, you will be hiking to one of the viewpoints on the trek, Mulde Viewpoint, at an altitude of 3637 meters (11,932 ft).
You need to wake early in the morning and hike on a sloppy uphill route for half an hour to reach the Mulde Viewpoint. You can spend a few moments at the top enjoying the panoramic mountain view.
After enjoying the mountain and sunrise view, we will hike back to Dobato and have breakfast. Then, continue our trek to Chistibung. There are a few teashops on the route where you can stop for tea/coffee or some snacks.
With about a one-and-a-half-hour trek (3-4 km), we will reach Bayali, which is a small lunch camp. You can satiate your hunger if you feel like it; if not, after some rest, we will start the trek to our destination.
From Bayali, you need to descend through the beautiful forest and the amazing pastures for about one-and-a-half-hour. Again, an additional hour upward ascends, passing the dense forest of pine, oak, and rhododendron, until you reach Upper Chistibung. It is a total of 4-5 km long trek.
About Mulde Viewpoint
Mulde Viewpoint is a great location to view the majestic mountain ranges such as the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri range, and Manaslu from afar during clear weather. There is a teahouse at the top, where you can have some basic breakfast and black or milk tea and coffee.
About Bayali
Bayali is a small lunch stop on the Khopra Danda Trekking journey. It is situated at an altitude of 3437 meters altitude, with just a teahouse there. You can have some lunch or snacks there and have just a little but beautiful view of Dhaulagiri.
About Chistibung
Chistibung (3026 m/9928 ft) is a small local village in the Khopra region of Nepal. It is also known as “Danda Kharka” or “Dhan Kharka”. The jungle view from the teahouses here is one of a kind. You can hear birds chirping in the background, and if lucky, you can see some wild animals, too.
Teahouses in Chistibung
- 2 basic teahouses.
- Hot showers, Wi-Fi, hot water, and electronics might cost an additional charge.
- Bathroom outside the room.
- Neat and clean food and accommodation.
Meal : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation : Tea House
Walking / Driving : 5 Hours
Day 05: Trek Chistibung to Khopra Danda
Trek Route: Chistibung → Khopra Danda
Beginning Point: Chistibung
Ending Point: Khopra Danda
Lunch: Khopra Danda
Chistibung to Khopra Danda Distance: 3-4 km (2-2.5 miles)
Total Ascent: 634 meters (2080 ft)
Overnight: Khopra Danda
The fifth day of the trek to Kopra Danda trekking begins with a wonderful breakfast at Chistibung. The nearly 4-hour walk becomes really memorable for you as the trail offers incredible views of the mountains.
Though it is just a 3-4 km trek, the trail is a little challenging uphill trek. You can rest in between and pack some snacks for the trek. We will only have lunch upon reaching Khopra Danda.
After having a tummy-full lunch, you can rest and acclimatize or go for a short walk down to the Khopra Ridge viewpoint. It is the 2ndviewpoint of the trek.
About Khopra Ridge Viewpoint
Situated at 3660 meters altitude, Khopra Ridge Viewpoint offers an awe-inspiring golden sunset view. From this viewpoint, you can see a beautiful 360-degree view of Annapurna South, Barha Shikhar, Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, Hiunchuli, Fishtail, and many more.
Teahouses in Khopra Danda
- One community teahouse (group of teahouses run by an owner).
- Teahouse can accommodate about 70-80 people.
- Rooms with attached bathroom.
- Bucket shower.
- Neat and clean room with healthy food.
Meal : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation : Tea House
Walking / Driving : 4 hours
Day 06: Acclimatization day at Khopra Danda- Hike to Khayer Lake (4750 m)
Hike Route: Khopra Danda → Khayer Lake → Khopra Danda
Khopra Danda to Khayer Lake Distance: 3-4 km (2-2.5 miles)
Maximum Elevation: Khayer Lake (4750 m/15,584 ft)
Total Ascent: 1090 meters (3576 ft)
Lunch: Packed lunch or en route
Today is a special and more strenuous day for you of Khopra Ridge trekking.
It is special in the sense that you will be reaching the final destination and the highest point of the trip, Khayer Lake. And it is strenuous in the sense, that you will have to walk nearly 9 hours to reach it and return back, covering almost 10 km.
Khayer Lake is the sacred lake situated at the foot of Annapurna South. It is one of the important pilgrimage destinations for Hindus and Buddhists. Bathing in the Khayer Lake and worshipping at Khayer Barahi Temple is believed to be helping you to attain Nirvana.
The panoramic views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, Barha Shikhar, Dhaulagiri I, II, III, IV, Gurja Himal, and Nilgiri from the Khayer Lake valley at an elevation of 4660 meters are amazing.
Remember to pack lunch and enough water as no good quality hotels and lodges are along the trail. There is only one teahouse serving basic snacks and some lunch items. Very few trekkers spend the night at Khopra Lake arranging the camp.
Meal : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation : Tea House
Walking / Driving : 9 hours
Day 07: Trek Back to Swanta from Khopra Danda
Trek Route: Khopra Danda → Chistibung → Swanta
Beginning Point: Khopra Danda
Ending Point: Swanta
Lunch: Chistibung
Khopra Danda to Swanta Distance: 9.6 km (5.9 miles)
Total Descent: 1390 meters (4560 ft)
Overnight: Swanta
The seventh day of your trek is to return from the major destination, Khopra Danda. Around five hours of the trek is required to reach Swanta, a beautiful village where you will have an overnight stay. The trail mostly descends through the small villages, terraced farmland, and forest.
The first part of the trek up to Chistibung follows a downhill route for about 1.5 hours. Then, we will have a delicious meal there and continue to trek for an additional 3-4 hours to Swanta.
About Swanta
Swanta is a small local village on the trekking route of Khopra Danda. The village, situated at an altitude of 2270 meters (7447.5 ft), offers one of the best views of Dhaulagiri. Swanta is also famous for its cheese factory, which is run by the community. There are around 20-25 local houses.
Teahouses in Swanta
- 3-4 teahouses.
- Attached bathroom inside the room.
- Warm and comfortable accommodation.
- Wi-Fi, hot shower, hot water, and electronic charging services are available.
Meal : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation : Tea House
Walking / Driving : 6 hours
Day 08: Trek back to Ghorepani from Swanta
Trek Route: Swanta → Chitre → Ghorepani
Beginning Point: Swanta
Ending Point: Ghorepani
Lunch: Ghorepani
Swanta to Ghorepani Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
Total Ascent: 590 meters (1936 ft)
Overnight: Ghorepani
After having breakfast at Swanta, you begin trekking for Ghorepani on the 8th day of the Khopra Trek itinerary. The trail descends through the village up to a small river. You will probably see a local water mill grinding grain nearby. After crossing the suspension bridge, the trail moves upwards to the small village of Chitre.
Chitre is around 1.5 hours trek, covering 2-3 km, from Swanta. You can have some tea or coffee and rest for some time at Chitre. Then, continue to trek for an additional 1.5 hours; we will reach the traditional village of Ghorepani, where you will have lunch and stay overnight.
About Ghorepani
Ghorepani is an amazing and sophisticated village in the Annapurna region, which is also the trekkers’ hub of Nepal. This village offers standard guesthouses, supermarkets, a volleyball court, and a snooker house. Visitors can enjoy beautiful mountain views from the hotel rooms.
There is an interesting reason behind the name “Ghorepani” for this village. As there was plenty of water, the ancient traders used to stop their horses to make them drink water. “Ghora” means “horse”, and “Paani” means “water” in Nepali. Thus, “Ghorepani” is the place for the horses to drink water.
Teahouses in Ghorepani
- 25-30 good quality lodges
- Rooms with attached bathroom and charging plug in room
- Wi-Fi, hot shower, hot water, etc.
- Cultural experience
Meal : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation : Tea House
Walking / Driving : 3 hours
Day 09: Hike Ghorepani to Poon Hill and Trek back to Hille
Hike Route: Ghorepani → Poon Hill – Ghorepani
Trek Route: Ghorepani → Ban Thanti → Ulleri → Tikhedhungga → Hille
Beginning Point: Ghorepani
Ending Point: Hille
Lunch: Ulleri
Ghorepani to Hille Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
Maximum Elevation: 3210 meters (10,531.5 ft) at Poon Hill Viewpoint
Total Ascent: 350 meters (1148 ft) from Ghorepani to Poon Hill Viewpoint
Total Descent: 1780 meters (5840 ft) from Poon Hill Viewpoint to Hille
Overnight: Hille
This day begins with a hike to Poon hill peak at an elevation of 3210 meters. Poon Hill Viewpoint is the 3rd viewpoint on Khopra Danda Trekking.
Nearly an hour hike to the steep ascend is quite tough early in the morning. But the pleasure you gain at the top makes you forget all your tiredness. Remember to take a bottle of water but not the thermos. In case they find your Thermos, you might have to pay penalties.
After spending some time in the viewpoint, we will descend back to Ghorepani. Descending down from the peak is easier than ascending. You might be able to reach Ghorepani in about 30 minutes.
After having breakfast at the teahouse, we will head to our 9th day’s destination, Hille. Hille is a 5-hour trek from Ghorepani, covering around 10 km. Stay in one of the fine teahouses in the beautiful village of Hile during the final night of Khopra Danda Trekking.
In between, you will stop for lunch at Ulleri for a couple of hours. The trek up to Ulleri is around 4-hour trek from Ghorepani and about a 1.5 to 2-hour trek from Ulleri to Hille.
About Poon Hill
Poon Hill is one of the most important viewpoints for sunrise and amazing mountain views. Moreover, the peak offers you marvellous views of Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhre, Dhampus, and many more.
The close views of eight-thousanders, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri are really mesmerizing from the peak.
About Hille
Hille is a small village in the Ghorepani region, situated at an elevation of 1430 meters (4692 ft). It is a peaceful village offering a scenic view of lush forests and terraced farming lands.
Teahouses in Hille
- About 20 basic teahouses
- Serves traditional foods from the menu, along with some Western dishes
- Cozy accommodation
- Additional services such as Wi-Fi, hot showers, etc., cost extra money
Meal : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation : Tea House
Walking / Driving : 7 hours
Day 10: Drive back to Pokhara from Hille
Drive Route: Hille → Birethanti → Naya Pul → Pokhara
Beginning Point: Hille
Ending Point: Pokhara
Lunch: Pokhara
Hille to Pokhara Distance: 51 km (31.6 miles)
Total Ascent: 608 meters (1995 ft)
Overnight: Pokhara
Take the last breakfast in the Annapurna region and explore the beautiful Hile village. Then, a private jeep arranged by Himalayan Masters will take you to one of the best hotels in Pokhara.
The drive is going to take around 3 hours, about 20 km long. The drive takes you through a beautiful jungle and local villages.
After freshening up and having lunch, you can take a rest and get out for a stroll around the Pokhara boating paradise. You can visit Pokhara and go for boating, paragliding, ice skating, shopping, etc.
Later, find one of the best restaurants to enjoy the last dinner in Pokhara and return back to your hotel. Pokhara also offers you amazing stores for shopping. Buy the things you feel are unique to your country/region, and grab the souvenirs for each of your friends and relatives.
Meal : Breakfast and Lunch
Accommodation : Hotel
Walking / Driving : 3 hours driving
Fixed Departure
Trip Date | Trip Status | |
---|---|---|
02-12-2024 | FULL | book now |
include / exclude
Trip Cost Includes
- Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu by bus.
- Two-night accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast.
- Pokhara to Nayapool and Nayapool to Pokhara by car.
- Eight nights accommodation in Mountain.
- Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during Trekking days.
- Guide for 10 days.
- Annapurna Conservation Area permits.
- Trekkers information Managment system (TIMS) permits.
- Poon Hill Entrance fees.
Trip Cost Excludes
- International Flight ticket.
- Lunch and dinner in kathmandu and pokhara.
- Tips for guide and potters.
- Your personal expenses.
useful info
Best Time To Do Khopra Danda Trekking
Whichever it might be, either trek to Khopra Danda or any other trek in Nepal, spring and autumn are the best time to do Khopra Trek Nepal. Also, the trekking routes in the Annapurna region are open throughout the year.
During spring (March to May), the climate is clear with temperate warmness. You can see a clear view of mountains and their surroundings. Likewise, autumn (September – November) offers one of the most favourable climates for trekking.
The days are calm and pleasant with a gentle breeze, and the nights are serene with a clear sky filled with twinkling stars.
In contrast, summer or monsoon (June to August) and winter (December to February) seasons are a little challenging.
The Khopra region observes unpredictable rain during monsoon season, with muddy trails and dangers of leeches and mosquitoes in lower altitudes, typically below 3000 meters (9842.5 ft).
Further, the winter season is colder, with occasional snowfall. The view of simmering mountain peaks such as Annapurna South and III, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri range is the most alluring feature of the winter trek.
Weather Information
The weather conditions on the Khopra Ridge trek itinerary can change throughout the year. During the peak seasons, spring and autumn, the skies are clear with mild temperatures and stunning mountain views.
During these seasons, the daytime temperature ranges from 10°C to 20°C. The nights could be freezing, with the temperature dropping to a negative 5°C at higher altitudes.
The winter season is colder, with occasional snowfall. During this season, the temperature ranges between -15°C and 10°C at night and day, respectively.
Moreover, the monsoon season faces unpredictable heavy rainfall. You might encounter some leeches, mosquitos, and other insects at lower altitudes. In contrast, you will be rewarded with a mesmerizing view of a vibrant forest coloured with different coloured rhododendrons.
Khopra Hill Trek Difficulty
The Khopra hill trek is considered a moderately difficult trek in the Annapurna trek compared to Annapurna Circuit Trek or ABC Trek. However, as you trek above 2500 meters (above 8200 ft), there is a chance of getting altitude sickness.
Moreover, other accidents that occur when walking in the mountainous region are common. You might fall down, sprain your legs, scratches, back and knee pains, and many more are common when trekking.
Also, if you are unable to adjust to Nepali, especially food and water in the mountains, you might get diarrhea, too.
Insomnia, loss of appetite, insect bites, allergies, etc., make your trek more challenging. Therefore, it is advised to eat digestible food and avoid eating meat when trekking in high-elevation treks.
Additionally, consult with your physician if you are fit for the trek or not, and be open about any allergies with Himalayan Masters’s team so that we can plan accordingly.
With proper preparedness and guidance, you can easily and safely complete the Khopra Hill trek.
Roads on the Khopra Valley Trek and How to Avoid
There are roads up to the village of Ghandruk when going to the Khopra Danda and from Banthanti to Pokhara when returning. To avoid these motorable roads, you can walk via the jungle or follow a different path.
Overall, the route on the Khopra Valley Trek follows a trekking trail. Instead of trekking on motorable, we have planned an itinerary that avoids these roads.
Moreover, until Ghandruk, you might come across roads, but while returning, you will be trekking on a complete trek trail until Hille. From Hille, you will be driving back to Pokhara.
Trip Grade: Fitness Level, Medical, and Health
Fitness Level
To trek to the Khopra Ridge viewpoint, you should have good enough physical and mental condition. You might find it challenging if you have a frail body.
There will be long trek days, which demands some level of mental and physical stability. To improve your physical state, do some strength-building exercises, and for mental stability, try doing some meditation and going for short treks 1 month before your trek.
Medical
Knowing your body’s limit is crucial for any trip. It is recommended that you should not trek if you are diabetic, suffering from asthma, or pregnant.
Furthermore, if you are not prepared to walk for several days on a rugged terrain, then you should consider before trekking.
Health
Your health is the first and foremost thing that you should care for. It is our utmost priority that you complete the trek with ease and without any health issues.
Therefore, while on trek, we see that you eat fresh and healthy food. Without good food, you won’t be able to trek properly. In addition to food, rest and proper sleep is also essential.
Special Training for Khopra Trekking
Khopra trekking is a moderately difficult trek in the Himalayas. So, you do not need any special training in it. However, it is essential to have some level of trek experience and physical condition.
You can do some core and stamina-building exercises like running, swimming, burpees, cycling, and some short hikes.
Altitude Sickness During the Mohare Danda Trek Map
The altitude sickness above the 2500 meters elevation is common. The Mohare Danda Trek map reaches a significant altitude of 4750 meters (15,584 ft) at Khayer Lake.
So, you need to be careful not to get altitude sickness. To avoid it, you need to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, eat liquid digestible foods, and be mentally positive all the time to enjoy the trek.
Emergency and Evacuation
During the Khopra Danda trekking or any trips, emergencies could occur. In the worst case, you might need helicopter evacuation.
Since the trekking trail does not have motorable roads, helicopter evacuation is the only option. You can find local medical only in Ghandruk and Ghorepani in between the trek.
To cover your medical and evacuation costs, we recommend that you have travel insurance. Moreover, your trek guide will always have a first-aid kit for minor injuries.
Insurance for Khopra Ridge Trek
It is not compulsory to have travel insurance for the Khopra Ridge trek or any other trek. However, it is better to have it in case of any emergencies.
Your travel insurance will cover your medical bills, helicopter evacuation, trip cancellations, and interruptions if needed. Further, you must read the insurance policy carefully to understand which insurance package to take.
Khopra Danda Trek Cost
All your 3 meals, accommodation, transport, and permits will be covered in the Khopra Danda Trekking package. However, you might need to pay some additional amount for additional services.
Here is a trek cost breakdown.
Food: Each meal during the trek costs around $8-$10, and for the package (accommodation, dinner, and breakfast), it costs about $20-$25.
Accommodation: The cost of accommodation is about $10, or you can take the package service as mentioned above.
Transport: The travel cost from Kathmandu to Pokhara comes to around $20, and nearly $10 from Pokhara to Naya Pul. A private shared jeep costs around $100 from Hille to Pokhara, which can be shared among 5-7 individuals.
Permit: You will need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS card. ACAP costs around NPR 3000, and TIMS card costs around $20.
Additional Expenses: Throughout the trekking journey, you might need to pay extra for some additional services, snacks, drinks, buying souvenirs, and tips for the porter and guide. So, you can carry around $200-$300 for these.
Additional Expenses During Trek
The additional expenses on the Khopra Danda trek map go for additional services like Wi-Fi, hot shower, electronics charging, and hot water. Wi-Fi and hot shower might cost $2-$3 each, and electronic charging and hot water costs around $1-$2 each.
If you want to drink some soft (made out of millet wine) or hard drink, it costs around $10. You can keep a few dollars for snacks and buying souvenirs.
Additionally, 10% of the trip is for the tipping guide and porter, but you can tip as you feel like more is always appreciated.
ATM During the Khopra Danda Trek
Whenever you are trekking to Khopra Danda or other treks in the Annapurna region, like ABC Trek or Annapurna Circuit Trek, you must know that there are no ATMs en route. They are only available in Pokhara and Kathmandu.
So, you must carry Nepali currency for the trek. Some teahouses might accept mobile banking or card payment for Nepali trekkers, but it is better to be on the safer side.
Money Exchange
Nepalese currency is used all over Nepal. Payments can be made in cash, by ATM, or through online payment systems like mobile banking in major cities of Nepal.
However, payment by Visa or Mastercard will charge an additional 3.5%. So, you are advised to exchange your currency for Nepali currency at one of the money changer booths in Kathmandu or Pokhara before going to the Khopra trek.
Permits for Mulde/Khopra Danda Trek
The Khopra Danda Trek, also known as the Mulde Trek, requires two permits: an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and a Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card.
The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit costs $30 for foreigners and $2 for the SAARC nationalities. Likewise, a TIMS card can be obtained for $20 for solo trekkers and $10 for each trekker in a group.
The money you pay goes into the management and protection of flora and fauna, as well as your security. These permits can be issued either in Kathmandu, Pokhara or at the gate of Annapurna National Park.
Packing List for Khopra Danda Short Trek
It is common to get baffled about what to include and what to exclude in the packing list for the Khopra Danda short trek or any trip. This article will explain each and everything that is required for the Khopra Danda trek. However, the packing list might vary from person to person.
Accommodation and Food
Travelling to a new place is also an opportunity to experience the new taste of food and a different bed to sleep in. You will find some decent teahouses in Khopra throughout the trail with a bed, mattress, blanket, and pillow.
Similarly, the human body does not function well unless it gets enough sleep at night. Thus, the food you consume and the bed you sleep in are the most important factors for making your trip successful and purposeful.
Khopra Ridge Trek Accommodation
A large number of teahouses in Khopra have been added in the past few years. But it is still very hard to find accommodation during the peak season.
If you are travelling from March to June or September to December, make sure to book suitable accommodation before the trip.
The teahouses are mostly empty in the winter and summer, and one can enjoy the best hospitality.
The accommodation on the Khopra Ridge trek is not as good as other treks in the Annapurna region. They provide clean and healthy food with a warm and comfortable bed and a blanket to sleep on. The rooms are normally shared dormitory.
The dining hall generally has a heating system and electric charging plugs. However, it is better to inquire beforehand.
Khopra Ridge Trek Food
Regardless of the region you trek, you must eat healthy, hygienic, and nutritious food to gain enough stamina for a long hike. The locally managed teahouses serve tourists a limited food option.
The teahouses make sure that you have warm and healthy food in Khopra. Every teahouse has the same menu provided by the authorities. The prices are set as per the altitude.
You will be surprised by the variety of options available on the menu. Along with the standard Dal baht (unlimited refills), other great options for lunch and dinner.
Basically, you will never be out of options for food, and the meals will cost somewhere between $4 and $7. We also recommend avoiding all kinds of alcoholic products and even meat in the higher regions.
Breakfast at Mohare Danda Khopra Trek
- Tibetan bread and toast
- Any kind of egg items
- Muesli and corn flex
- Puri and chapati
- Noodle soup, chicken soup, etc.
- Champa porridge (made of buckwheat)
- Apple pancake, banana pancake, and plain pancake, etc.
Lunch at Mohare Danda Khopra Trek
- Dal Bhat with veg or non-veg curry
- Tea/coffee
- Noodle and other soup
- Mo:Mo
- Chowmin
- Potato curry
- Chicken meat, etc.
Dinner at Mohare Danda Khopra Trek
- Variety of veg and non-veg soup
- Dal Bhat and curry
- Thukpa
- Mo: Mo
- Chowmin, etc.
Dessert at Mohare Danda Khopra Trek
- Apple pie
- Banana pie
- Rice pudding
- Chocolate and sneaker roll, etc.
Electricity and Battery Recharge
The electricity is available throughout the trek route of Mohare Danda Khopra trek. You can charge your electronics in the dining hall or at the reception desk. Some of the teahouses might even have charging plugs in your room. Moreover, you might need to pay an additional $1 or $2 fee for some of the teahouses.
Water During Khopra Trekking
You need to stay hydrated wherever and whenever you are trekking. Carrying a reusable water bottle and purifying the water before drinking with a water purifying tablet is an essential measure during Khopra Danda trekking.
Using plastic bottles is banned in the mountains, so you need to carry a refillable bottle. You can refill the bottle in a hotel for a dollar. However, the best option is to refill the bottle with the natural tap and use a Steripen (UV sterilizer) for safe drinking water.
Himalayan Masters will provide you with a complimentary water purifying tablet for the trek.
Communication on Trek
The means of communication on Mohare Danda Khopra Trek are Wi-Fi and cellular networks. Wi-Fi connection is available throughout the trek, but you might need to pay an additional $2-$3 charge for it. Likewise, you can get NTC and NCELL cellular connections in almost every part of the trek.
If you want to be connected to the internet, you can buy an NTC or NCELL SIM card from a shop in Kathmandu or Pokhara and use cellular data.
Safety and Security on Khopra Ridge Trek
Nepal is a safe country to visit. Despite some instances of robbery, theft, or demonstrations, it is not a big threat. However, when you are on the Mohare Danda Khopra trek, we recommend that you do not carry any valuable items. You can store them in our office or at the hotel.
Additionally, there are some other threats, such as avalanches, floods, landslides, earthquakes, etc. But with preparedness and proper guidance, they can be avoided.
Guide Vs Solo Trekking
The Khopra Danda trek can be done with or without a guide. If you are a solo trekker, you need to have thorough instructions about the trek. You need to know about the trek route, food, accommodation, emergency contacts, weather, local traditions, and so on. You might also want to learn a few Nepali phrases too.
In contrast to the Khopra Danda trek without a guide, with a guide, you need not worry about anything. Everything will be arranged by your guide. He/she will know almost everything from their experience. Not to mention, he is going to be your companion for several trekking days.
Additionally, there is a rule set by the Nepal government that if you are travelling in the high mountainous region, you need to compulsorily hire a licensed guide.
Porters Vs No Porter
Khopra Hill trek might not be long like the EBC and Gokyo Lakes Trek, Mount Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, or Upper Dolpo Trek, but trekking for several days with heavy luggage is quite challenging. In that case, hiring a porter would be a wise decision.
Hiring a porter will allow you to be free and enjoy the trip. Also, by hiring a porter, you are not only helping them but helping his entire family and providing them employment.
Tips on Hiring a Porter for Khopra Hill Trek
- Each porter will only carry 26 kg of your load. But it will be easier for the porter if it is less.
- If your luggage is less than 12 kg, you can share a porter with other fellow trekkers.
- As the porters will walk faster than you and will only meet you at the teahouse where you will spend the night. So, it would be better if you carried a backpack.
- When you hire a porter, you are directly benefiting him and his family’s income.
Tipping Culture for Guides and Porters
Your guides and porters are dedicated to making your trek safe, enjoyable, and memorable. Therefore, tipping them for their dedication is viable.
Normally, 10% of your trip is the tips for guides and porters. However, it is not mandatory, so you can tip them more or less as you feel like.
Extending Trip to Nepal
Extending Khopra Danda Trekking
Khopra Danda trekking can be extended by 1 or 2 to 8-10 days from your standard itinerary. If you add an overnight stay at Syauli Bazar on the 1st day of your trek, Khopra Danda trekking can be extended by a day.
Likewise, we can combine the Mardi Himal trek with the Khopra Danda trek to add thrill to the trip, with an additional 2 days of trek.
Additionally, if you add Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) and Mardi trek after Khopra Danda trek, this is going to take around a total of 18-20 days.
Trip Extension to National Parks
Chitwan National Park and Bardiya National Park are some of the best and most easily accessible national parks in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Moreover, due to their geographical differences, both of them offer a variety of wildlife that you can explore.
Jungle safaris, jeep safaris, elephant safaris, and short canoe trips are some of the best ways to explore wildlife in Chitwan National Park. You can see rhinos, gharial crocodiles, deer, tigers, and many other animals thriving in the protected ecology.
Likewise, Bardiya National Park is another popular tourist destination in the Bardiya district of Nepal. It is a less visited national park offering you an experience of wildlife and local culture. Additionally, you can see tigers, elephants, jackals, and a wide variety of birds around here.
How do you book a trek to Khopra Danda?
Himalayan Masters is a Nepal government-registered adventure and travel company. You can book a trek to Khopra Danda by any means you feel comfortable with.
You can contact us by messaging us on mobile or WhatsApp, emailing, or a phone call. There is another option, too. You can fill out our contact form. We will then prepare a trip package according to your preference or in the best manageable manner.
We will then provide a guide and a porter, permits, and some souvenirs on behalf of the agency.
How can I book a Khora Danda trip at the last minute?
If you want to book a trip to Khopra Danda just before the day of your trek, do not worry. You can make last-minute bookings with Himalayan Masters by directly contacting us.
You can visit our office at Saat Ghumti Marg 3, Thamel, Kathmandu, or reach out to us through email, WhatsApp, phone call, or by filling out an online form.
But remember that you should do it 1 or 2 days before starting the trek for trek preparation and briefings. Also, you need to pay the full amount for the trek.
Why choose Himalayan Masters?
With Himalayan Masters, you trek with a highly skilled and experienced team. You will be trekking with one of the most experienced and professional guides and porters. They will not only provide you with guidance and ensure your safety but also provide you with a journey filled with adventure and the experience of a lifetime.
Feedback/Review
Do not forget to give feedback or a review after completing the trek. It helps us know our good and bad points and improves our team’s quality in offering a comfortable and successful trekking experience.
Reviews
I just finished the most incredible 10-day Khopra Danda trek with HM. We were incredibly blessed with great weather, especially during the season, and the views were outstanding, but the real highlight of our trip was our AMAZING guide, RAM!! RAM’s decades of knowledge guiding ment that he knew the areas (which were not as common or popular to trek) very well and was able to give us advice and help modify our trek mid way to ensure that we got the best experiences.
He checked in several times daily to see how we handled the altitude, the hiking and the experience, which made me and my friend feel incredibly safe. To top it off, he would ensure we were in the room with the best view at each tea house, would get us extra blankets and would freshly cut fruit daily for us to snack on after dinner.
In addition to this, my experience organising the trip through HM was very smooth.Sandip even let me change my plans mid-hike, stay extra days in Pokhara, and then provided transport back to Chitwan instead of Kathmandu. Could not recommend this company more, whilst you might pay a little more then organising it all yourself with a guide like Ram every dollar was worth it.
Monique VThailand
My friend and I have just completed an 8 day Khopra Danda trek with the absolute man – Ram. My friend did most of the liaison with Sandip but my short interaction with him at the office was unreal. So friendly and accomodating – the sleeping bag and down jacket for the trip was also so appreciated! The trek itself was absolutely gorgeous. We struck luck with the weather and the views are breathtaking. Our trip wouldn’t have been so memorable without our phenomenal guide, Ram. Ram is the most warm, knowledgeable, patient and attentive guide!! He was more than willing to offer advice regarding certain elements of our trip, match pace during the trickier inclines, check in regularly or answer questions he’d probably answered a millions times before. He’d be so fast with our meals at the tea houses making sure our hands were always warm with a cup of tea or some freshly chopped fruit. A genuine heart-felt thanks to Ram and the HM team for making this such a wonderful experience 🙂
Emma DAustralia
FAQs
What is the Transportation we use for Mohare Danda Khopra Danda Trek?
Our trekking Itinerary to Khopra begins from a place called Nayapul in Pokhara and ends in Hile, Pokhara. From Kathmandu to Pokhara, we will either travel in a tourist bus or fly on a domestic plane as per your budget. From Pokhara, private jeep and public buses are available to Nayapul from Hari Chowk. From Hile, we drive back to Pokhara in a private bus. Here is Khopra Ridge Trek Map.
Is there Wi-Fi in Khopre Danda Trekking?
What are the people of Khopra Danda like?
Is Khopra Danda Trek very hard?
Speak to an Expert
Sandip Dhungana
Nepal 🇳🇵
Whatsapp: +977-9823636377
Speak to an Expert
Sandip Dhungana
Nepal 🇳🇵
Whatsapp: +977-9823636377