The Khopra Danda Trek is a moderate trekking experience that can be completed in 7-10 days. Despite the name Khopra Danda, the major highlight of this trekking itinerary is the holy Khayar Lake, located at an altitude of 4665m. Since Annapurna south is just 6km from the lake, you can enjoy the panoramic views of Annapurna Range, Machhapuchhre (6993m), Nilgiri (7061m), Dhaulagiri (8167m), Himchuli, and other Himalayas from the lake. With Khopra Danda trek cost blog post, we aim to provide comprehensive information for nature enthusiasts. Our focus will be on the cost, itinerary, weather conditions and map, which will allow you to plan your trip more effectively.
Khopra Danda Trekking Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu:
Beyond the Limits Treks and Expedition welcomes you to the Himalayan kingdom Nepal. Upon your landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be received by our representative, who will transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Later in the day, we will arrange a pre-briefing with your Khopda Danda trek guide. Your guide will provide information about the trail and the necessary equipment for the trek. You can also put forth any queries during the meeting.
Day 2: Drive/Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara:
On the second day of your trip, we will transfer you to Pokhara. You can choose between a flight or a bus ride to Pokhara. The Kathmandu-Pokhara flight takes around 25 minutes, while the drive takes 6-7 hours, covering a 201 Km distance.
If you choose a bus ride to Pokhara, you will get the chance to enjoy a lovely ride passing through the highway offering the views of the gushing River, green hills, farmlands, and small villages and as you approach Pokhara, you can also see the snow-capped pinnacles.
After arriving in Pokhara, you will be transferred to your Hotel room, and later you can stroll down the streets of Lakeside and do last-minute shopping. The Lakeside of Pokhara is one of the liveliest parts of the city, so spend some time around Phewa Lake and watch a beautiful sunset.
Day 3: Drive to Ghandruk (2012m) and Trek to Tadapani (2610m):
Our official trekking starts today. In the morning, we will drive to Ghandruk, which will take around 3-4 hours, covering a 55 Km distance. On the way, you can enjoy the views of green hills, ethnic village settlements and the Modi River. The village of Ghandruk is known for its traditional house, beautiful landscape and Himalayan views. So, after arriving in Ghandruk, we will spend some time soaking in the scenery and head to Tadapani after having a hearty lunch.
The Ghandruk to Tadapani trek is an easy hike that takes around 3 hours. On the way to Tadapani, there is no particular village, so you will mainly walk through the dense rhododendron and oak forest, listening to the sounds of the birds. You can also see waterfalls and the Himalayas on the way to Tadapani. From Tadapani, you can enjoy the sunset view and the panorama of the Annapurna ranges, Lamjung Himal, Macchapuchre and other surrounding Himalayas.
Day 4: Trek from Tadapani to Dobato (3350m):
In the morning, we will leave Tadapani behind and head towards Dobato, passing through the rhododendron forest and buffalo pastures. The first stop for the day is, Isharu, where you will have lunch. From Isharu, you can see Pokhara and the beautiful Phewa Lake in the distance. Ahead on the trail, you will continue to walk through the forest for about 2-3 hours to arrive at Dobato.
Day 5: Trek from Dobato to Chistibung (3000m):
Today, we will wake up early to enjoy the sunrise view from Muldai View Point. The hike to the Muldai viewpoint takes 30-45 minutes and offers a splendid sunrise view and the panorama of 25 mountains, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Macchapuchre.
From Muldai viewpoint, we will head down to Dobato for breakfast and continue our journey to Chistibung, also known as Dhan Kharka, passing through the village settlements of Bayeli Kharka. Initially, the trail to Bayeli Kharka is mostly flat, and from Bayeli, the trek is mostly downhill and through the dense forest area of the region. However, you will trek via a narrow uphill path near Chistibung. On the way, you will also walk past waterfalls and several buffalo grazing pastures before arriving at Chistibung.
Day 6: Trek to Khopra Danda/Khopra Ridge (3640m):
The Chistibung to Khopra Danda trek offers an off-the-beaten trekking experience as it is uphill climb that passes through the dense forest. As we walk along, we will notice the change in the landscape, where we leave behind the tree line and open up into the ridge of Khopra, offering incredible views of Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri Himal and others. On your way, watch out for the Himalayan Tahr and the national bird of Nepal, Danfe.
Day 7: Hike to Khayar Lake (4665m) and trek down to Khopra Danda (3640m):
The hike to Khayar Lake is extra challenging as you will be walking for approximately 9-10 hours. Since Khayar Lake is one of the major attractions of the trek, you will be enthralled by the panorama of the lake adorned by the backdrop of the Himalayas. The Hindus consider the lake as the abode of Goddess Khayar Barahi. Hence the lake is holy and is believed to wash off sins. From the lake, you can enjoy the views of the Annapurna Range, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, Hiunchuli, and other Himalayas.
Day 8: Trek from Khopra to Swanta (2270m):
As you have explored the Khopra Danda and Khayar Lake, we shall head down the hill to Swanta. Enjoying the downhill journey, you will walk past the forested ridge to arrive at the beautiful settlement of Ratmate. You will also cross several streams, dense forests, and shrines before arriving at Swanta for overnight.
Day 9: Trek from Swanta to Ghorepani (2874m):
On the first half of the Swanta to Ghorepani trek, you will descend through the farmlands, cross a suspension bridge over a small river and ascend to the village of Chittre. From Chittre, you will start your trek on the main trekking trail, making your way to Ghorepani with an uphill climb. The trekking trail mainly passes through the rhododendron forests and looks magical during the spring and autumn.
Day 10: Hike to Poonhill (3210m), Trek down to Tikhedhunga (1480m) and drive to Pokhara:
Today we will witness the splendid sunrise over the Himalayas from Poonhill. The Ghorepani to Poonhill hike takes 45 minutes to 1 hour but is a steep ascent to the top. Apart from the sunrise, you can also enjoy majestic views of Annapurna I (8091m), Annapurna III (7855m), Macchapuchre (6993m), Tukuche Peak (6920m), Nilgiri (6940m), Annapurna South (7219m), Annapurna IV (7525m), and Lamjung Himal (6931m). after soaking in the views, we will head down to Tikhedhunga, enjoying the surrounding views.
From Tikhedhunga, we will hop on a jeep to Pokhara via Nayapul.
After arriving in Pokhara, you can rest or explore the attractions around Pokhara.
Day 11: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu:
Biding goodbye to the Himalayas, we will drive back to Kathmandu, enjoying the natural views. After arriving in Kathmandu, you can spend time on your own.
Khopra Danda Trek Shorter and Faster Itinerary:
Route-1:
- Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Ghandruk and then Trek to Tadapani.
- Day 2: Trek from Tadapani to Bayeli Kharka.
- Day 3: Trek from Bayeli Kharka to Khopra Danda.
- Day 4: Hike to Khayar Lake and trek to Khopra Danda/Khopra Ridge.
- Day 5: Trek from Khopra Ridge to Swanta.
- Day 6: Trek from Swanta to Ghorepani.
- Day 7: Hike to Poonhill and trek to Birethani and drive to Pokhara
✔ Also Read:Khopra Danda Trek 11 Days
Permits required for Khopra Ridge trek:
The Khopra Danda trek requires two permits, Trekkers Information Management System Card (TIMS) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Since the Khopra Danda lies within the Annapurna conservation area, the ACAP is mandatory, and the TIMS card is needed to safeguard trekkers by registering them along all the checkpoints along the trail. The cost of ACAP is USD 30, and the TIMS is USD 20 per person.
Khopra Danda Trek Cost:
The Khopra Danda Trek cost is determined by several factors like lodging, food, transportation means, personal expenses and the itinerary you choose. However, if we break down the cost for each day, breakfast will cost you around 4-5 USD, Lunch 5-6 USD, and Dinner 6-7 USD per person. Similarly, the accommodation will be around 6-7 USD per person on twin bed sharing.
The cost for transportation may vary as per your choice of transportation means, a local bus, jeep or taxi up to the starting point of the trek. The two permits will cost you 50 USD. And since trekking with a Guide has been mandatory for International trekkers, the guide charge will be around 30-40 USD per day. The key to reducing the trek cost is planning your trip better and packing snacks to munch.
A smart way to cut off this hassle is buying a trekking package from a trusted trekking company that will include your accommodation in Pokhara and Kathmandu, Meals and stay on the trekking trail, Guides, Porters, Permit fees, transportation and Government vat and tax and offer the best service at a reasonable price range.
Khopra Danda Weather:
The weather of the Khopra Danda trek is lovely all year round. However, each season offers a different experience to the trekkers. So, read below and choose your trekking season.
Spring (March to May): This season is believed to be the best time for the Khopra Danda trek, as the temperature lies between 10C to 20C during the day and 0C to 10C at night. During this time of the year, the sky is clear, the flowers are in full bloom, and the environment is pleasant.
Autumn (September to November): This season is another preferred season for trekking. The skies clear after the monsoon cloud, and the temperature decreases. The day temperature is between 10 to 20C and drops to 0C to 10C at night. During this season, you can see great views of the Himalayas and blooming marigolds and other flowers on the trail.
Monsoon Season (June to August): The Monsoon season brings heavy rainfall and risks like landslides and floods. However, if it's not raining, you can plan your Khopra Danda trek and complete it. In case it's raining, it is better to wait for the weather to clear off as the trail is slippery, creating more challenges and may also lead to accidents.
Winter Season (December to February): Trekking during winter in Nepal means snow and more snow, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The temperature during this season is -10C to 10C in the day and drops to -15C to -5C at night, making it hard to trek on the trail. Trekkers with previous trekking experience or with special equipment can trek this season.
Whether you are a novice or an experienced trekker willing to explore the incredible Khopra Danda and Khayar Lake, plan your trip around the Autumn and Spring seasons to enjoy the best views and have a wonderful time in the lap of Annapurna South.
Khopra Ridge Trek Map:
Most Commonly Asked Questions on Khopra Ridge Trek:
1. How difficult is the Khopra Dada Trek?
✔ Khopra Danda trek is a moderate trekking experience in the Annapurna region that can be completed in 7-10 days.
2. What are the accommodations like on the Khopra Dada Trek?
✔ During your Khopra Danda trek, you will be accommodated in teahouses on sharing basis. Teahouses in the area offer basic facilities like shared or attached bathrooms, fooding and twin bed-sharing accommodation.
3. What permits are required for the Khopra Dada Trek?
✔ The Khopra Danda trek requires two permits, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and a Trekkers Information Management System Card.
4. What is the altitude of Khopra Ridge?
✔ The altitude of Khopra Ridge is 3640m.
5. What mountain is seen from the Khopra Dada trek?
✔ You can see several mountains from Khopra Danda like Dhaulagiri (8167m), Annapurna South (7219m), Macchapuchre (6993m), Annapurna II (7937m), Annapurna III (7555m), Dhampus peak (6012m), Nilgiri Himal (7061m), Tukuche Peak (6920m) and others.
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