Khopra Danda Trek
73 reviews in Tripadvisor
Trip Duration
11 Days
Destination
Nepal
Max. Altitude
4,660 m.
Trip Difficulty
Moderate
Group Size
1-12
Transportation
Bus, Jeep
Accommodation
Hotel/Lodge
Activity
Trekking
Meals
All Inclusive
Start / End
Nayapul/Pokhara
Region
Annapurna
Best Season
Spring & AutumnUS$ 790
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+977 9764792172Trip Overview
Khopra Danda Trek, a tourist destination located inside Annapurna region, which is considered one of the quietest and peaceful trek. This trek is still not recognized by people, so the place still looks pure, untouched, and full of nature. Khopra Danda Trek remains a quiet adventure where you can genuinely enjoy the scene along the journey at your own pace, while well-known routes like Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp get crowded during peak season.
What can you see during the Khopra Danda Trek?
The trek takes you through small local villages, lush green forests, and stunning mountain where the landscape slowly changes into dense rhododendron forest. The entire jungle appears to be vibrant and colorful with red, pink, and white flowers if you visit in the spring. You can also hear the bird singing, peaceful sound of nature and sometimes even spot wild animals along the trek.
As you walk higher, you can see the mountains getting closer and closer as you can just touch it. Here, people are mostly Gurung and Magar communities. They welcome every trekkers with kind smile and appreciate their hard work. The lodges are community-run, which means the are managed and owned by local villagers and the income they generate through the lodge is used in community development.
The best part of Khopra Danda Trekking is the sunrise and sunset in Khopra Ridge (3,660 m). When the sunlight touches the peak of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and other giant peaks, the mountains look bright golden.
A sacred divine lake known as Khayar Lake (4,660m) is also available. It’s a long day and a little tough, but if you make it, the view of the glacier and the silence of that holy lake will make the experience unforgettable. Locals believe that visiting the lake blesses the people and brings good fortune.
How difficult is the Khopra Danda Trek?
The Khopra Danda Trek is mostly considered moderately difficult. The Khopra Danda Trek is quiet, peaceful, and easy trek suitable for beginners, and it’s not tough like high altitude trek, but it still requires a significant level of physical and mental fitness. Although the trekking route of Khopra Danda Trek is substantially gentle, there are some steep uphill sections, particularly the rise from Tikhedhunga to Ulleri and the final ascent to Khopra Ridge.
Some trekkers may find altitude challenging, since the main ridge is 3,660 m and Khayar Lake (4,660 m) is the highest point. If you choose to go on the optional day hike, you may witness mild altitude sickness or lack of breath if you don’t acclimatize properly.
The trekking of Khopra Danda Trek is mostly marked but some parts of the route can be challenging because of rocky and slippery trails, especially after rain.
Tips: If you are a beginner or inexperienced in high altitude trekking, it’s better to avoid optional Khayar Lake (4,600 m) hike.
Distance, Duration, and Altitude for Khopra Danda Trek
The entire Khopra Danda Trek is around 85 to 90 km long and this trek includes traditional villages, forest trails surrounded by rhododendron, and scenic viewpoints .It takes about 9 – 11 days for the Khopra Danda Trek to complete, depending on your walking pace and the rest you take on the way.
The highest point during this trek is Khayar Lake which is estimated at 4,660 m. But this part of the trek is optional and depends on the interest and health condition of the trekkers, if they want to do it or are capable of doing it.
Best Season for Khopra Danda Trek
Spring (March – May)
Spring is the beautiful season for the Khopra Danda Trek. The forest is full of vibrant and colorful rhododendrons and flowers. The weather is stable with clear crystal skies, giving stunning views of peaks like Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre.
Autumn (September – November)
Autumn is the peak season for trekking in Khopra Danda. It’s starts after the monsoon, when the air is clean and visibility is excellent. It allows trekkers to watch the panoramic view of the mountains without any problem. Autumn is also a festival season in villages, so you can enjoy the local culture with the Himalayan views.
Winter (December – February)
During winter the trails are calmer and peaceful. The mornings and nights at Khopra Ridge can be cold, but the days are sunny and warm. If you don’t have any problem with cold, it’s also a great season for the Khopra Danda Trek.
Monsoon (June – August)
Of all 4 seasons, monsoon is the least recommended for the Khopra Danda Trek. During this season heavy rain fall, slippery and muddy trails, and less visibility of the mountains make this season less enjoyable.
Highlights of Khopra Danda Trek
- Peaceful nature exploration with no stress from crowd
- Mesmerizing sunrise and sunset with Himalayan panorama
- Visit the sacred Khayar lake
- Kind and welcoming locals
- Explore Ghandruk and traditional villages
Photo Gallery & Video Gallery
Khopra Danda Trek - Distance, Duration, and Altitude
| Trekking Route | Distance (Kilometers) | Duration (Hours) | Altitude (Meters) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drive From Pokhara to Nayapul and trek to Ghandruk | 12 KM | 6 hours | 1940 m. |
| Ghandruk to Tadapani | 8 KM | 4 hours trek | 2630 m. |
| Tadapani to Dobato | 13 KM | 6 hours trek | 3420 m. |
| Dobato to Khopra Danda | 17 KM | 6 to 7 hours trek | 3660 m. |
| Excursion to Khayar lake and Khopra Danda | 13 KM | 8 to 9 hours trek | 4700 m. |
| Khopra Danda to Swanta | 15 KM | 5 to 6 hours Trek | 2214 m. |
| Swanta to Ghorepani | 9 KM | 4 to 5 hours trek | 2860 m. |
| Poonhill Sunrise and Trek to Nayapul | 22 KM | 8 hours trek | 3210 m. |
| Heading Back to Kathmadu | 205 KM | Drive Back | 1400 m. |
Itinerary of Khopra Danda Trek
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmadu
Upon arrival at the Kathmandu airport, you’ll be greeted by our guide or representative and transferred to your hotel. Take this day to rest from the journey and explore the Thamle area and spend the day at your leisure. In the evening, there will be a brief explanation about the trek, inclulding itinerary detail, and what to pack for the trek.
Activity: 35 min drive
Max. Altitude: 1400m./4,593ft. (Kathmandu)
Accommodation: 3 Star hotel
Day 2: Drive From Kathmandu to Pokhara
After breakfast enjoy the drive to Pokhara with scenic view of river, hills and small villages. Pokhara is a beautiful place, famous for Phewa Lake, mountain views and peaceful lake side streets. After reaching Pokhara check in hotel and take some time to explore lakeside. In the evening the group will gather for the final word and prepare for your trek.
Activity: 7 hours drive
Max. Altitude: 822m./2,697ft. (Pokhara)
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 3 star hotel
Day 3: Drive From Pokhara to Nayapul and trek to Ghandruk
Early morning drive about 1.5 hours from Pokhara to Nayapul. It is the starting point of the trek where you will begin the trek with peaceful paths, small villages, crossing stone bridge and terraced farmland. It will take approximately 12 km of hiking from Naya Pul to Ghandruk (approximately 6 hours). Ghandruk itself is a classic Gurung Village, and the experience of staying in a warm and welcoming mountain tea house in Ghandruk is truly an incredible experience.
Activity: 6 hours trek
Max. Altitude: 1940m./6,365ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse/lodgs
Day 4: Ghandruk to Tadapani
Today will be a much shorter trek to Tadapani of 8 kilometres (4 hours). The area we hike through is stunning, with enormous rhododendron trees lining the path. Depending on the weather, you may get great views of the Annapurna range and Machapuchre (known locally as “Fishtail”) as they will be scenic from time to time. We will stay in a lodge in Tadapani for the evening.
Activity: 4 hours trek
Max. Altitude: 2630m./8,629ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
Day 5: Tadapani to Dobato
Today, things become increasingly authentic as we ascend to the higher altitude toward Dobato, a distance of approximately 12 or 13 km. It will take us about 6 hours, and you will feel the climb, but the views of the Annapurna range are just getting better and better. The teahouse in Dobato is a great spot to take a rest on those legs.
Activity: 6 hours trek
Max. Altitude: 3420m./11,220ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
Day 6: Dobato to Khopra Danda
Make sure you fuel up with a hearty breakfast before you head out today as we have a long way to go today, approximately 17km. Expect to be walking for around 6 to 7 hours through some very peaceful, sounds of nature and many small and isolated villages. It’s all worth it when reaching Khopra Danda for the sunset view! You won’t forget this sunset experience anytime soon!
Activity: 6 to 7 hours trek
Max. Altitude: 3660m./12,008ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
Day 7: Excursion to Khayar lake and Khopra Danda
This is the big one! We are taking a day trip to the holy Khayar Lake at an altitude of 4,700m. This will take about 8 to 9 hours because of the altitude, as the round trip is about 13 km long. The scenery up here is just wild and peaceful. We will head back to our same lodge at Khopra Danda to sleep.
Activity: 8 to 9 hours trek
Max. Altitude: 4700m./15,420ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
Day 8: Khopra Danda to Swanta
The knees get a bit of a workout on this day as we head back down. We’re dropping 15 km down to a village called Swanta. The trek is 5 or 6 hours through a combination of woods and local farms. The atmosphere is much more relaxed today as we get back into the green zones.
Activity: 5 to 6 hours Trek
Max. Altitude: 2214m./7,264ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Community lodge
Day 9: Swanta to Ghorepani
Today will be an easy day. We only have to trek 9 kilometers; it’ll take between 4-5 hours. This area has been known for its stunning views of the Himalayas, and my purpose for being in Ghorepani is to rest before our early trip tomorrow.
Activity: 4 to 5 hours Trek
Max. Altitude: 2860m./9,383ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
Day 10: Poonhill Sunrise and Trek to Nayapul
We wake up before dawn to make the trek to the top of Poon Hill to see the sunrise over Dhaulagiri and the Annapurnas. A potential “bucket list” experience. After that we head back Ghorepani for breakfast as we have a long trek to Nayapul, where we will take a short drive back to Pokhara for a much-needed shower and bed.
Activity: 8 hours Trek
Max. Altitude: 3210m./10,531ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 3 Star hotel
Day 11: Heading Back to Kathmadu
The 7-hour drive to Kathmandu happens again as we travel the same route. But unlike when we were trekking and had to constantly watch our footing, today we can sit back and enjoy all the beautiful scenery. To finish off your trip, you will have one more night in the city for last-minute souvenir shopping or one last meal in Nepal.
Activity: Drive Back
Max. Altitude: 1400m./4,593ft.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
Day 12: Departure
This is the final day where you will be transfered to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight home ending your memorable Khopra Danda Trek adventure.
Includes/Excludes
What is included?
- Permits and Local fees: All the required permits for Khopra Danda Trek, including ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and TIMS(Trekker’s Information Management System) included.
- Accommodation: Teahouse and Lodges are include during this trek, two night before and after trek accommodation at kathmandu and pokhara in 3 star hotel on BB plan. (twin sharing basis)
- Meals: Most packages will include three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek also includes two times hot beverage (in breakfast and lunch) and seasonal fruits after dinner.
- Guide and Porter: An Experienced English speaking trekking guide and porter to carry luggage is provided.(one porter for two trekers)
- First aid kit: A basic first aid kit for any emergency situation
- Trekking map: A map for the trekking route.
- Pick up and drop off.
- tranceportation provided in whole trek.
What is not included?
- International Flight: International flight from Nepal is not included.
- Travel insurance: You are expected to have your own travel insurance that covers emergency rescue is not included.
- Personal Expenses: Expenses for extra meals, drinks, snacks or other personal stuff are not included.
- Nepal Visa Fees: Entry visa fee for Nepal is not included.
- Additional day and meals: Any extra hotel night or meals are not included.
- Emergency Rescue: Evacuation in case of accident or sickness are not covered.
- Tips: Tipping for guide and porter is not necessary but a kind appreciation for their support — fully your choice.
- meal: meal is not included at kathmandu and pokhara.
Trip Map of Khopra Danda Trek
Trip Information
Cultural and Local Experience
There is more to Khopra Danda Trek than just the mountains and the terrain. It’s an opportunity to learn about new culture, tradition and explore unique ways of living life, particularly those of the Gurung and Magar people who live in villages like Sikha, Tadapani, and Ghandruk. These people are renowned for their rich history, warm hospitality, and strong traditional values.
Tourists can observe traditionally stone-built houses and old style terraced farming, where locals grow potatoes, barley, millet, and seasonal vegetables. You can also experience a new year festival called Lhosar, celebrated by the local people by wearing traditional dress, dancing, and singing, if you visit in spring.
Another highlight of this trek is local teahouses or community run lodges. These lodges are run by local villagers, which helps to support the local community from the income they generate. The trail also passes through an old route with prayer flags and small monasteries along the trek, influenced by Buddhist religion.
Permits and Fees
To do this trek inside the Annapurna region, all trekkers must have 2 compulsory permits.
ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
This permits is necessary because it allows you to enter Annapurna Conservation Area, which protect the natural land and wildlife. This trek passes through beautiful villages, old villages and high ridges that are all part of the conservation area.
Cost: NPR 3,000 per person
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
This card is mostly used for record keeping. It help authorities to track the entire trekking journey of the trekkers and ensure their safety if anything goes wrong. Since Khopra Danda is non-restricted area, you will need the Green TIMS card.
Cost: NPR 2,000 per person
The permits are available at:
- Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu
If you’re trekking with a registered agency like ours, you have no need to worry, Just provide us:
- Copy of your passport
- Passport size photo.
Our team will arrange all the permits as part of the service package, making the process hassle-free for travelers who prefer to trek with Epic Trek Nepal.
Safety and Health Tips
Safety is first and important on the Khopra Danda Trek.
- Acclimatization plays a crucial role during your trek in preventing altitude sickness. Ascend slowly and allow your body to adapt.
- Hydration is equally important. Drink plenty of water throughout the trek, aiming for at least three liters daily.
- Know your limits and listen to your body. If you’re feeling unwell or exhausted, take some rest before continuing the journey.
- Keep emergency contacts accessible and inform friends or family about your itinerary before beginning on this adventure.
Cancellation Policy for Khopra Danda Trek:
At Epic Trek Nepal, we know that things don’t go as planned. Plans can change unexpectedly. That is why we keep our cancellation policy to be fair and simple.
Cancellation Notice:
For any reason, if you need to cancel your Khopra Danda trek then please let us know at least 15 days before your scheduled trek start date. This allows us to adjust the arrangement without any loss.
Administrative Fee:
When you cancel the trek before the 15-day period, we will refund your payment, but a 25% fee will be reduced from the total cost of the trek as an administrative charge. This fee covers the planning and organizational cost we’ve already done for your trip.
Non-Refundable Period:
If the cancellation happens less than 7 days before the trek start date, no refund will be provided, but by looking at the situation, if we feel the reason for cancellation is valid, then the amount will be refunded after deducting 70% of the total trek amount. In such time we have already submitted the cost and reserved the spots for you.
Documentation Support:
We know insurance claims can be important. In caseyou cancel, we would gladly provide the necessary documents, such as receipts, to help with your insurance process.
Accommodation:
Please note that if your trek is canceled due to personal reasons, illness or bad weather, refunds for unused accommodation are not available.
If you have questions or want to discuss your situation, our team is here to help. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to guiding you safely on your Khopra Danda Trek.
Required Gear for Khopra Danda Trek
Clothing
- Warm layer of clothes for cold mornings and nights
- Thermal leggings
- Base layer pants
- Fleece jacket for insulation
- Down jacket
- Waterproof shell jacket and waterproof pants
- Trekking pants and shorts
- Trekking socks
- Warm hat
- Sun hat
- Gloves
Footwear
- Trekking Boots
- Camp shoes/sandals
- Gaiter for snowy or muddy trails
Bags
- Large bag or duffel bag
- Rain cover for bag
Electronics
- Camera and phone for photos
- Extra batteries and memory card
- Power bank
- Flashlight
Important Documents
- Passport
- Trekking permits
- Insurance paper
- Emergency contact number
Additional helpful item
- Basic first aid kit
- Reusable water bottles
- Trekking poles for stability
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Khopra Danda Trek is the perfect journey for anyone, especially beginners who wants to experience the stunning Himalayan views with a cultural touch without the crowds or any complications. Whether you choose Khopra Ridge or the optional hike to Khayar Lake, the memories of the Khopra Danda Trek will stay with you forever.
In short, the Khopra Danda Trek is further than just a walk to mountains; it’s a cultural exploration with a peaceful and breathtaking experience that will refresh your body, mind and spirit.
Join Epic Trek Nepal for an epic adventure you will never forget!
Frequently Asked Questions
The Khopra Danda Trek is mostly considered moderately difficult. The trail of Khopra Danda is quiet and peaceful and it’s not tough like high altitude trek, but it still requires a significant level of physical and mental fitness. Walking slowly and taking some rest between the trek make the journey enjoyable.
This trek is popular because of its quiet and peaceful trail that gives the glimpse of real Himalayan beauty without pushing yourself too hard. It is quite challenging enough to feel rewarding not extreme.
The Khopra Danda Trek can be done throughout the year, but the best recommended season for this trek are Spring (March – May) and Autumn (September – November) which offers clear skies, mild temperature and colorful natural scenery with stunning views of the mountains.
The highest altitude for this trek is around 3,600 m but if you to do optional Khayar Lake trek, it is around 4,600 meters, offering more stunning views for your Khopra Danda Trek.
Yes, it is suitable for beginner who have some moderate fitness and hiking experience. The Khopra Danda Trek is not as extreme as EBC or ABC, trails are well marked and hiring a guide and porter ensure safety and comfort.
In this trek, you will find local tea houses and community lodges, which are simple, cozy and clean run by local families. Lodges at Khopra Danda Trek includes warm meals, drinks and seasonal fruits with panoramic view of the mountains .
Yes, an experienced guide is highly recommended due to dense forest which can be confusing and guide also help with understating local culture.
Yes, you will need two main permits:
- ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
- TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
If you are trekking with registered agency, they will handle all the paperwork for you with just a passport copy and a passport size photo.
Altitude sickness is rare but above 3,000 m you might get slight symptoms of altitude sickness. Walking slowly, drinking water and allowing you body to acclimate help prevent altitude sickness. Guides can also monitor symptoms of altitude sickness and suggest descending if necessary
Trip Reviews
US$ 790
Need Help? Talk to Expert
+977 9764792172
