Max. Elevation
Khopra Ridge Trek
Overview
Annapurna & Dhaulagiri in Comfort: A Refined Himalayan Balcony Trek
The route follows the renowned “Annapurna Balcony”, celebrated for its exceptional viewpoints and well-preserved villages. Walking through terraced hillsides, rhododendron forests, and traditional settlements, we immerse ourselves in the daily life of the Gurung people. The charming village of Ghandruk, with its stone houses and warm hospitality, marks a highlight of the trek. From here, we leave the classic trail behind and venture onto quieter paths toward two remarkable viewpoints, Khopra ridge, that bring us astonishingly close to the massive faces of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre, and the distant Dhaulagiri range.
This khopra Ridge lesser-traveled section adds a true sense of exploration, offering serene landscapes and unobstructed mountain vistas far from the crowds. The trail then descends toward Poon Hill, the historic and iconic viewpoint of the region. At sunrise, the snow-capped peaks ignite in shades of gold and crimson—an enduring image that has inspired generations of trekkers.
Rather than ending the journey here, we continue onward to the still relatively unknown Mohare Danda. Reached via a fourth panoramic ridge, this community-run lodge sits atop a broad summit, providing sweeping 360-degree views and a peaceful atmosphere. Staying here supports local initiatives while offering an authentic and intimate mountain experience.
A superb introduction to trekking in Nepal, this itinerary combines classic highlights with hidden gems. It is also a wonderful alternative for those wishing to avoid the busier traditional routes, without sacrificing scenery, comfort, or cultural depth.
Itinerary
Expand AllUpon your arrival in Kathmandu, our local team warmly welcomes you at the airport. You will then be escorted to the hotel, where you can enjoy some well-deserved relaxation.The itinerary includes a briefing about the trek's progress and presentation, followed by leisure time. If you arrive in the morning, you'll have the entire day at your disposal. This can be used for rest or for those interested in exploring the surroundings freely. It's an ideal chance to experience Nepalese culture and indulge in the local culinary delights.
- Transfer to hotel
- Final altitude: approximately 1,350 m
- Meals: Dinner
- Accommodation: one night in the hotel
Breakfast and finalization of luggage. Flight to Pokhara in the morning. Once landed, we board local jeeps. On the road to Nayapul, we make a stop at Khare to admire the mountains before following the Modi Khola by a track. A few bends lead us to the village of Chane around 1700 m. Here, the porters load the bags and we start the trek on a beautiful path, with already views of Machhapuchhare, Gangapurna, and Annapurna South. From Chane, the trail climbs up to the village of Gandrung, where we stop to spend the night. Superb views of the Annapurnas and the Machapuchare.
- flight: 30 Min
- Drive: 2hrs
- walking: 1Hrs
- Final Altitude: 1,990 m
- Meals: Breakfast- Breakfast- Lunch- Dinner
Gandrung is the largest village of the Gurung ethnic group. Each family is proud to have at least one member belonging to the clan of the famous warriors who are the Gurkhas! We take the time to visit the village, its temples, and museums before starting the walk towards Thadapani. Tadapani means “distant water” in Nepali. We resume the climb towards the Komrong Danda pass (2650 m). Very nice views of the Machapuchare. A balcony path leads to the villages of Melanje (2,050 m) and Chiule (2,050 m). The path straightens and crosses a forest of imposing rhododendrons, real trees, in bloom from March. Placed on the ridge, Thadapani (2590 m) offers a plunging view of the steep-sided valley leading to the Annapurna sanctuary. Annapurna III (7555 m) and Gangapurna (7454 m) dominate the scene.
- Walking: 5 hours
- Elevation Gain/ Loss:+700m/ -90m
- Final altitude: approximately 2,600 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: night in a lodge, Tea House
We leave the main path that leads to Ghorepani to follow a path rarely used by people other than locals. The path first climbs through the thick rhododendron forest before arriving at the water buffalo pastures. Short grass is a precious commodity in these villages. The views of the Annapurna Range emerging above the tree line are stunning. We arrive at Dobato after the place called Isharu.
- Walking: 6 hours
- Elevation Gain: +780m
- Final altitude: approximately 3,400 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: one night in a lodge
For the more adventurous, the day begins before dawn with an optional sunrise walk to the Muldhai Viewpoint, reached in about 45 minutes from the lodge. This first encounter with Dhaulagiri is nothing short of spectacular. From this outstanding 360-degree panorama, the Himalayan giants unfold in every direction. To the north rise the Nilgiri peaks (North, Central, and South), Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Annapurna III, and the iconic Machhapuchhre. To the east, emerging through the morning mist, lie Lamjung Himal and Himalchuli, extending as far as Ganesh Himal. To the south, rolling hills descend endlessly toward the distant Terai plains. Turning west, the view opens toward the remote ranges bordering Dolpo, with Putha Hiunchuli, Gurja Himal, and the vast Dhaulagiri massif dominating the skyline, crowned by Dhaulagiri I. Nearby stand Tukuche Peak and the rugged mountains of western Mustang.
It is the kind of viewpoint where one could linger for hours, captivated by the sheer scale and silence of the high Himalaya. Eventually, we descend back toward the trail and continue along this quieter second balcony route, far removed from the main trekking paths. After a few hours of walking, we reach the alpine pastures of Bayeli, home to a single, remote lodge. If weather conditions allow, the setting sun paints the surrounding peaks in warm evening light, offering another unforgettable moment high above the valley.
From here, the landscape becomes increasingly wild and serene. There are no signposts or famous viewpoints—only yak pastures, rhododendron forests, and wide-open mountain scenery. Surrounded by these magnificent Himalayan giants, we continue our descent to Chistibung, arriving after approximately three hours of downhill walking.
- walking: 5hrs
- Elevation Gain/ loss: +300 m / –700 m
- Final altitude: approx. 3,020 m
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge
The path crosses a beautiful forest of rhododendrons to a small sacred pond; the view clears; the path winds between the blocks and joins a spur from where the view of the Dhaulagiri is remarkable. Another effort to reach the Kopra community lodge. Magnificent views, extraordinary panorama formed by the Annapurna South, close to a few kilometers (but the ascent of which takes weeks!), and the peaks of Fang and Nilgiri to the north. Beyond the depths of the Kali Gandaki valley, the Dhaulagiri Himal dominates the entire skyline to the west. After lunch, to enjoy this sumptuous landscape even more, a hike on the ridges that dominate Kopra Ridge, towards the sacred lake of Khayar (4025 m), is possible. In summer, a pilgrimage takes place on the shores of the lake; in spring and autumn, the snow does not allow it to be reached. A belvedere located at 4000 meters is already a beautiful objective. Return to the lodge.
NB: Allow 3 to 4 hours of walking for Kopra Ridge and 3 hours of walking for the optional hike to Khayar Lake.
- Walking: about 7 hours
- Elevation Gain: 600m
- Final altitude: approximately 1,300 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: one night in a lodge
After admiring one last sunrise over the familiar peaks—Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and Hiunchuli—we begin a long descent toward lower valleys. The trail winds through high alpine pastures, first shared with grazing yaks, then gradually giving way to buffalo herds as we lose altitude. Beyond Chistibung, the landscape changes once more, leading us into rhododendron-covered slopes. Crossing a suspension bridge, we tackle a final short climb before reaching the welcoming village of Swanta.
- Walking time: 6 hours
- Elevation Gain/: +200 m / –1,700 m
- Final altitude: approx. 2,250 m
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge
After leaving the village, we descend to a river and cross it by suspension bridge before rejoining the classic trekking trail. The path then climbs gently through a series of villages toward Ghorepani, whose name—“water of the horses”—recalls its long history as a stop on regional caravan routes. Today, Ghorepani is a lively mountain settlement with numerous lodges and convenient facilities.
- Walking: 5 hrs
- Elevation Gain/ Loss: +800m/ -100m
- Final altitude: approximately 2,685 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: night in a lodge
Early departure for Poon Hill (about 45 minutes), the region’s iconic viewpoint. While the sunrise attracts many visitors, once the crowds turn back we continue onward toward our fourth panoramic ridge, heading for the quiet heights of Mohare Danda. The trail becomes increasingly wild, crossing open alpine pastures where yaks and buffalo graze, with the immense face of Dhaulagiri constantly in view.
Reaching Mohare Danda, we spend our final evening in the highlands, surrounded by vast Himalayan scenery. As the light fades, the silhouettes of Lamjung Himal, Mardi Himal, and many other peaks stand out against the sky. With clear conditions, some may even catch a distant glimpse of Phewa Lake far below in Pokhara—a fitting and memorable conclusion to this high-altitude journey.
- Walking: 6 hrs
- Elevation gain/ Loss: +880m / -100m
- Final altitude: approximately 3,300 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: night in a lodge, Tea house.
On this final day of walking, we remain on the ridge with Dhaulagiri still in view. The trail leads us gently toward the Hampal Pass (2,990 m) before descending into the beautiful Gurung and Magar village of Lespar, a fitting and authentic conclusion to our journey through the highlands.
- Walking: 6 hrs
- Elevation Gain/ Loss: +200m/ -1200m
- Final altitude: approximately 2,160 m
- Meals: breakfast – lunch – dinner
- Accommodation: a night in a lodge
Early departure for our last day of the trek. We walk “on a balcony” first in the heart of forest landscapes then from hamlet to hamlet, we descend along the Patikhola river to Patichaur. Transfer to Pokhara. Enjoy rest and a comfortable night at Phewa Lake.
- Walking: 4 hrs and driving: 2 hrs
- Elevation Gain/ Loss: +100m / - 1000m
- Final altitude: approximately 850
- Meals: breakfast – lunch
- Accommodation: one night in a Hotel
Return to Kathmandu along the Himalayan range. The peaks of Annapurnas, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Langtang parade on the horizon
- Drive: 6 hrs
- Final altitude: 1,355 m
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: one night in a Hotel
Free day. Take advantage of this day to stroll in the city center or visit the cultural sites. Marvel at Shree Buddhanath, a 36-meter-high stupa in the Tibetan Quarter of the Nepalese capital. Discover Pashupatinath, the holy place of Hindus dedicated to Shiva, one of the four highest places of pilgrimage in Asia. Nestled in the center of old Kathmandu, Durbar Square never fails to captivate the visitor with its fine woodcarvings and rich history. Explore the dynamic district of Thamel and its colorful bazaars, an ideal place to do your last shopping. In the Kathmandu Valley, the traditional village of Bhaktapur will amaze you with its 17th-century architecture.
- Final altitude: 1,355 m
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: one night in a Hotel
We will drive you back to Tribhuvan International Airport for your scheduled flight to your destination.
- Meal: Breakfast
Note:
If you have a private group and prefer a personalized experience, we can organize a custom trip tailored to your requirements and group size, running it any day you choose.
Plan a Private TripIncluded & Excluded
Included Points
AIRPORTORT PICK-UP & DROP : Airport - Hotel transfer – Airport (Pick Up and Drop).
ACCOMMODATION IN KATHMANDU : 3 nights sharing twin bedroom at the hotel (3-star category) in Kathmandu – Sharing twin Bedroom on BB Plan.
ACCOMMODATION IN POKHARA : 1-night sharing twin bedroom at the hotel (3-star category) in Pokhara on a bed and breakfast basis.
WELCOME DINNER : One Welcome Dinner in a tourist standard restaurant in Kathmandu with Office’s Staff.
PERMITS All necessary paper works : Annapurna Conservation Area permit, TIMS card, and conservation entry fee.
STAFF INSURANCE : Insurance for all involved Nepalese staff during the trek.
MAP : Annapurna Region Trekking map.
TRANSPORTATION DURING TREK : Air Transportation: (Domestic Flight) from Kathmandu to Pokharaland Transportation: from jeepPokhara to Ghandrukland Transportation: Private jeep from Pokhara to Kathmandu
MEMBER LUGGAGE : Up to 15 Kg per member for personal baggage during the trek carrying by porters.
FOODS & LODGING : Food 3 meals a day (BLD; including tea and coffee) along with accessible accommodation at Hotel/Lodge during the trek.
TREKKING GUIDE : Local government-licensed Guide (English speaking) during the trek and sightseeing in Kathmandu valley.
PORTER : Porters (2 trekkers: 1 porter) during the trek.
STAFF SALARY & ALLOWANCE : All Nepalese staff and porters’ daily wages, salary, equipment, food, and clothing.
VALLEY SIGHTSEEING : Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley [ Swoyambhu (Monkey temple) and Kathmandu Durbar Square] by a professional guide.
COMPLIMENTARY SERVICES FROM THE ALPINIST CLUB : Alpinist Club -25 degree sleeping bag during the trip ,oximeter to monitor your oxygen saturation and heart rate,Alpinist Club water bottles with purification tablets.First aid kit box,Seasonal fruits for dessert,Alpinist Club Duffle Bag for the Trek
Excluded Points
INTERNATIONAL AIRFARE : International flight airfare (from and to Kathmandu).
NEPAL VISA FEES : The Nepal Visa fee is US$ 40 per person for 30 days (to be applied for 60 days (USD$ 100).
LUNCH & DINNER : Lunch and dinner during the stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara (also in case of early return from Trekking than the scheduled itinerary).
EXTRA NIGHTS IN KATHMANDU & POKHARA : Extra nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara. In case of early arrival or late departure, early return from Trekking (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
INSURANCE : Travel and high altitude insurance, accident, medical and emergency evacuation.
PERSONAL EXPENSES : Telephone calls, Internet, Toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beer, and any alcoholic beverages.
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT : Clothing, Packing Items or Bags, Personal Medical Kit, Personal Trekking Gears, etc.
TOILETRIES : Soaps, shampoos, toilet and tissue papers, toothpaste, and other items used to keep yourself clean.
FILMING : Special Filming, Camera, and Drone permit fee.
INTERNET SERVICE : Internet facilities during the trek are not included.
TIPS : Tips for Guide, porters, and staff.
EXTRA : Any other services or activities that are not mentioned in the itinerary. Any other item not listed in the “Cost Includes” section.
Trip Information
Know More Khopra Ridge, Ghorepani, and Mohare Dandan at once
Your guide, from your arrival in Kathmandu until your departure, is responsible for the success of your trip and oversees your team. Do not hesitate to ask him questions, respect his position as the team leader, and above all follow his advice! Often your guide is the only English-speaking member of the team. In the mountains and, especially during high-altitude travels, your guide is responsible for the group's safety. The instructions and remarks he gives to all participants must be carefully followed. The interest and safety of the trekking group must be preserved, even when it may be to the detriment of an individual member of the group.
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Your Nepalese team may consist of several people, each with different responsibilities. They are:
- The Guide Leader (Sirdar): is responsible for and leader of the whole team and is treated with respect by all. Often he has earned his position by starting as a porter and rising through the ranks.
- The Assistant Guide: is actively helping clients under the leader’s direction and set camp.
- The Porter: is the load carrier for the trekking group. As Nepal is a mountain country with few roads, porters are employed to carry loads. Compliance with regulations and common courtesy dictates the maximum weight carried and the minimum wage paid. Porters are provided with gear based on the routes they follow and with insurance for treks.
Each trekker is allotted the following maximum weights per person:
For Lodge (tea house) Accommodations Trek:15 kg maximum;
Tent Camping: 22 kg maximum; Expeditions/summit ascents: 20 kg maximum. The porters are given a premium wage for carrying loads over 30 kg.
Additionally, the Alpinist Club ensures that insurance is provided for the guide and porters. They are also equipped with specific gear for crossing high-altitude passes.
Accommodations in Kathmandu
In Kathmandu, you will be accommodated in a hotel. We use different hotels depending on availability. The two preferred hotels are: Upon arrival in Kathmandu, a welcome dinner is provided on the first evening. Similarly, upon return from the trek, a farewell meal is provided. In the cities, many small (or large) restaurants allow us to discover the typical local cuisine.
- Hotel Himalayan Suit: Located in the heart of Thamel, this hotel is ideal for walking the bustling streets of Kathmandu. The spacious rooms all have a bathroom, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. A fully equipped and active dining room is available for all meals, and the breakfast buffet offers a wide choice of foods. The hotel offers currency exchange, laundry services, and luggage storage.
- Sampada Garden: Located just 20 minutes on foot from Thamel and Durbar Square, this hotel is convenient for exploring Kathmandu. The rooms have all the necessary comforts for your stay: air conditioning, bathroom, and Wi-Fi. Breakfasts are served as a generous buffet. The hotel provides currency exchange, laundry services, and luggage storage.
Accommodation And Meals during the Trek
For lodge accommodation: during the Poon Hill and Khopra Ridge trek, you will stay in the lodge or Tea House with twin shared bedrooms. for this trek Meals are prepared by the Lodge's cook and Serve in the dining room.
Here is a typical one-day menu:
- Breakfast: eggs, toast or chapati, or Tibetan bread or pancakes, or pancakes, butter/jam, tea or coffee
- Lunch: a main course, tea or coffee
- Dinner: soup, main course, fruit (fresh or canned), tea or coffee. During the trek, tea or coffee is served with meals. Two cups per person are included. Apart from these included menus, other drinks and foodstuffs will be at your expense.
- Water: We provide water purification tablets. and Recommended to bring refilling bottles with purified water. Avoid buying mineral water due to its environmental impact.
Physical level in Khopra Danda Trek
This program is designed for those who exercise regularly, especially in endurance activities. You only need to carry a daypack with essentials. The trek lasts 14 days, with daily hikes of 6 to 7 hours and altitude changes between 400m and 1,350m. The Larkya Pass (5,150m) often has snow later in the season.
Preparation for the Khopra Trek Nepal
Preparing for the trek requires several months of preparation with 4 to 6-hour walks every weekend for stamina and participating in a sport that requires short periods of high exertion.
Group size for the Khopra, Ghorepani, and Mahare Danda Trek
The group is composed of 1 to 10 participants maximum. The number of participants is voluntarily limited to allow a better immersion, to not embarrass our hosts, to develop spaces of freedom, and to allow great flexibility of operation. However, the maximum number can be exceeded in the case where the last person who registers wishes to travel with another or several other people. The services will not be modified and the conditions of the trip will be identical as a result
Medical check-up
Being in good health is essential to fully enjoy your Alpinist Club trip. If your last medical visit was more than four years ago, please get another general physical exam and tell your doctor the nature of your trip (climate, altitude, difficulty, etc.). The altitude also has the effect of reviving dental problems or other chronic pain, so getting a dental checkup is also prudent. If you are undertaking a high-altitude expedition, we advise you to consult a mountain medicine specialist.
Acute Mountain Sickness
This trip takes place at high altitudes, so some people may experience altitude-related discomforts like headaches, loss of appetite, and swelling of limbs. Most of these symptoms usually go away within a few days, but sometimes they can develop into a serious illness: pulmonary or cerebral edema. There are no preventive drugs for AMS. Diamox diuretic is often effective for symptomatic relief, but you should first check with your doctor to verify that it is not contraindicated for you. Think about it before you go.
Safety During Khopra Ridge Trek Route
Safety has always been our top priority at Alpinist. Our team of expert guides is dedicated to leading a fun and successful climb while ensuring safety remains uncompromised. We plan carefully, considering daily weather forecasts and paying diligent attention as we venture into high altitudes. Throughout the journey, we carry comprehensive medical kits, rescue equipment, and reliable radio and satellite communication gear.
Security And Communication
We have at least one Iridium satellite phone for logistics, weather updates, and security. Participants may use it under certain conditions—please contact us for private use. All camps are connected by radio, with access for the expedition leader, participants, and high-altitude Sherpas. A hyperbaric chamber will be available at base camp, and a lighter, essential pharmacy will be stocked at higher camps.
Gears List
Trip Map
Trip Gallery
FAQ's
Expand AllAnnapurna Dhaulagiri Trek isn’t difficult. It is considered to be a moderate trekking trail. However, it is suggested to prepare yourself with some prior exercise. The trek is moderate and welcomes trekkers of all ages from 9- 10 years. The trek can be executed by all age groups with some proper planning and guidance.
The ideal seasons for this trek are Spring ( March to May ) and Autumn ( September to November ). These months are ideal because of the stability of weather, clear skies, and pleasant trekking conditions. During winter seasons, it can be possible but it is colder at the higher altitudes and monsoon seasons bring heavy rainfall and leeches.
Yes, you need to hire a Guide and a porter for this trek.You can hire them through the government-licensed trekking agency in Nepal. They will help you for the successful completion of the trek. They ensure your safety and an enjoyable trek in Nepal.
Our porters can carry up to 20 kgs which includes 2 bags. We Alpinist Club provide 1 porter for the two clients. In case of odd numbers, we will take an extra porter to carry 1 bag.
The trek is regarded as moderate trekking with few emergencies. Acute Mountain sickness isn’t a common issue in the Annapurna Dhaulagiri region. There is a low chance of you having altitude sickness.
You don’t have to worry about the accommodations and the food during the trek. You can find various teahouses, lodges, and hotels along the route. They have basic facilities and food available during the trek.
You get to witness majestic peaks such as Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Nilgiri (7,061 m), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), and Tukuche Peak (6,920 m). You will be stunned by the beauty of breathtaking Himalayas views.
On average, you have to trek about 6- 7 hours a day during the trek. However, the duration of the trek depends upon your pace and the itinerary you follow. Some days are shorter and some are longer.
You have to prepare yourself as the trek involves long hours of walking. You can start your training yourself in the physical activities such as leg strength, and cardiovascular fitness. You can also do regular hiking, along with exercises like stair climbing and leg strengthening that will prepare you for the trek.
You must have good-quality trekking shoes, warm clothing for higher altitudes, good sleeping bag, a raincoat, trekking poles, and personal medical supplies. You shouldn't forget the sun protection and the water purification tablets for the trek.
To reach Khopra Ridge, start from Pokhara, drive to Nayapul or Ghandruk, and trek via Tadapani, Dobato, and Khopra Danda. The journey takes about 5-7 days, depending on the route.
The trek costs approximately $500–$1,200, depending on permits, guide/porter fees, accommodation, and food.
ACAP Permit: $30
TIMS Card: $20
Teahouse Stay & Meals: $25–$40 per day
Expect breathtaking mountain views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, cultural experiences with Gurung and Magar communities, peaceful trails, and the option to trek to Khayer Lake (4,500m)
This trek is moderate and suitable for beginners with good fitness. Daily walks range from 5-7 hours, with some steep ascents. Proper preparation and acclimatization are recommended.
- Spring (March-May): Blooming rhododendrons, clear skies.
- Autumn (September-November): Best weather, clear mountain views.
- Winter (December-February): Cold but peaceful.
- Monsoon (June-August): Not recommended due to rain and leeches.