Khopra Ridge Trek

Overview of Khopra Ridge Trek

The Khopra Ridge Trek also known as Khopra Danda Trek is a popular trekking destination in Nepal located to north-east of Pokhara’s border linking it with Myagdi district.It is a relatively new and untouched trekking route that takes you off the beaten track through some remote villages, dense forests, and scenic landscapes. Alongside, it also offers the mountain views including Mt.Dhaulagiri (8167m), Mt.Annapurna(8091m) , Mt.Machhapuchre, Lamjung Himal etc. Being quite similar to Poonhill trek but with less number of crowds and groups which is good for the trekkers who want peace and sense of relaxation in the journey. The trek lasts about 5-6 days approximately depending upon your itinerary and time schedule.

Despite not being one of famous treks of the nation it has got almost all the offerings that other trekking routes bestows you with. Along with panoramic mountain views and other various eye-gazing sights it also offers you good accommodation facility all over your trek. Opposing to other trekking routes, hotels and lodges that are privately run by individuals this trek provides you community based lodges that are run by local communities. It gives you an opportunity to be a part of local community and their culture during the trek. http://Khopra Ridge Trek

The best time to visit Khopra Ridge is from mid October to November till early December as it is autumn season and you can witness the panoramic views of Himalayas of Nepal. It’s also a peak and best time to trek in Nepal including this trek. If not possible during this time in season you have another three months February,March and April respectively to visit the Khopra Ridge as it is the end of dry season and considerably the second best time to visit the site because the sky remains clear and blooming rhododendrons on the way will make you feel refreshed.

The journey of Khopra Ridge trek starts from Kathmandu to Pokhara through road transportation (200km) approximately six or seven hours to reach. After reaching Pokhara a short ride through any means of road transportation will take us to Kimche passing through Nayapul. The trek starts from Kimche a small town located about an hour’s drive from Pokhara, and follows a less-traveled path towards the village of Ghandruk. Ghandruk itself is a beautiful place where you can enjoy cultural diversities of Gurung community as they will offer you warm hospitality.

After a stay at Ghandruk for the night trek starts again to Bayli Kharka in the morning through the route of Tadapani’s rarely used trail. Following the route you then proceed to Khopra Danda from Bayli Kharka passing through eye-stunning landscapes of grazing pastures and timberline forests.

The highlight of the Khopra Danda Trek is the ascent to Khopra Ridge, which offers breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South. Along the way, you will pass through small settlements, grazing pastures, and dense forests of rhododendron and oak trees.

Another option after you reach Khopra Danda is to visit Khayer lake. One of the major highlights of the trek is to visit the holy Khayer Lake, which is considered a sacred site by the local Gurung people. The lake is located in remote and pristine valley at the height of 4600 meters. It also offers stunning and eye-gazing views of the surrounding peaks. The trail to the lake is steep and challenging, but the views and the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the lake makes it all worth it.

After visiting Khayer Lake another worth visiting place is to visit nearby Swanta village. It is not so popular village but it offers warm hospitality which is heart welding in such a long trek. You can also witness cultural diversity only few meters away from city. It is also famous for its community run cheese factory.

You have multiple options for your return journey for Khopra Ridge Trek. You may either choose to return back via dense Gurung settlement of Ghandruk or Hike up to Ghorepani, trek to Poonhill then descend down to Ulleri and drive to Pokhara.

Khopra Ridge Trek offers one of the best off beaten experience in the Himalayan foothills of Nepal. Traversing through remote and virgin landscapes of Annapurna region, this trek bestows trekkers with once in a lifetime experience of trekking the Himalayas.

Khopra Ridge Trek requires a you to have TIMS ( Trekkers Informations Management System) and Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permits. You will need these two documents for your Khopra Ridge Trek:

• Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP): 3000 Nepalese Rupees (About $30)
• Trekkers Informations Management System (TIMS): 2000 Nepalese Rupees ( About $20)