Khopra Ridge Trek

Khopra Ridge Trek, also recognized as Khopra Danda Trek, is a newly opened short and delightful off-the-beaten hike in the remote hills of Annapurna. The trail runs between different ranges of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri and connects with other famous trekking trails such as Mardi Himal Trek, Annapurna Base Camp, and Ghorepani Poon Hill.

First, the fantastic Himalayan panorama as seen from Muldai viewpoint and Poon Hill, and second, the up-close look at the Dhaulagiri from the Khopra Ridge is the biggest highlight of this trek.

You will encounter untouched traditional Magar and Gurung houses/towns, and your accommodations will be at culturally developed community lodges. Contributions from figures like Mahabir Pun have helped enhance community-based tourism, creating a more genuine trekking experience.

If you are someone who wants to travel unharmed beauty with fewer crowds and discover the emerging trekking route in the Nepal Himalayas, this 12–day Mohare Ridge Trek is the perfect option for you.

Khopra Ridge Trek: A Beginner’s Challenge with Incredible Rewards

Yes, one can trek the Khopra Danda route as a beginner, but as a beginner, you need to know something. It covers some easy places at the beginning of the trekking, including short hiking trails through the forests of rhododendrons and some villages that help beginners adapt to the high terrain of Annapurna. But once you get to Khopra Ridge, the path is steep and tough, especially as you progress from Tadapani and when approaching Khopra Danda from Chistibung. The climb is somewhat demanding, but the rewards are undisputed as travelers stand to enjoy breathtaking views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountains.

First-timers should also expect to encounter changes in altitude, especially when reaching Khopra Danda, which sits at 3,660 m. Pace yourself, make sure to drink water, and listen to your body. However, with proper timing and with the assistance of professional guides, first-timers can also pull through this trek and be rewarded with spectacular views.

Khopra Ridge Trekking: Off the Beaten Trek Highlights

• Witness over 22 Himalayan Peaks of Nepal, including some of the highest peaks like Dhaulagiri and Annapurna I.
• Experience a less crowded, peaceful, and off-the-beaten trekking route in Nepal. Enjoy the untouched beauty and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the remote part of the Annapurna Region.
• Engage with local communities in villages like Ghandruk and Ghorepani, covered mainly by Magar and Gurung villages. Experience their warm hospitality and learn about their tradition, history, and rich cultural heritage.
• One of the highlights of this trek is a hike to Muldai Viewpoint. Get beautiful 360-degree Mountain Views, including uniquely shaped Machhapuchhre, from there.
• Walk into the dense forest of flowering rhododendrons forest in shades of red, pink, and white, making and enhancing your trip even more with natural beauty.
• Stay in community-run lodges. Staying in this place directly supports local development efforts. It contributes to education and healthcare, meaning a sustainable trekking experience.
• Get a chance to encounter wildlife in their natural habitat.
• The trek is accessible to beginners, offering moderate challenges balanced with breathtaking rewards, and guided support ensures a safe and enjoyable journey.
• For a more thrilling experience, choose an optional adventure to Khayer Lake at 4,500m. Get a peaceful and spiritual retreat.
• Conclude your trek with a memorable hike to view the sunrise view from the famous viewpoint, PoonHill.

How to Reach Khopra from Kathmandu: A Complete Route Overview

As soon as you land in Nepal, your adventure begins! If you are not tired after your flight, you can explore, go shopping in the Thamel area, or rest in your hotel. You will leave Kathmandu early in the morning after breakfast and go to Pokhara, where you will spend the night.

On the following day, you will first take a short drive to Kimche and start your trek towards Ghandruk village. At Ghandruk, you can explore the village and visit the Gurung Cultural Museum. The next day, you walk through the lush rhododendron forests to Tadapani.

After Tadapani, there is an up-and-downhill trail. Crossing this path, you will reach the Gurung village of Isharu, where you can rest and have lunch. From Isharu, it's a steep hike to Dobato, along paths carved on the side of hills covered with stubby grasses. It is located just below the Muldai Viewpoint, one of the best viewpoints in the Annapurna Region. Dobato is a name that translates to “two ways ” in Nepali. One path leads us to Khopra, whereas another connects to the other routes in Annapurna.

You can enjoy a Sunrise hike to the Muldai Danda and savor 360-degree views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchre or Fishtail Peak, Annapurna Fang, Dhaulagiri, Hiunchuli, Gurja Himal, and Tukuche Peak.

Leaving Dobato, you head to the village of Chistibung via Bayeli. The trail, at this point, gets pretty secluded and lonely. Not many locals or trekkers use this route. To reach Chistibung, you make a steep descent into a dense forest. After spending a night at the small hamlet of Chsitibung, you continue your ascent to Khopra Ridge. It's a short but tiring hike. The trail is steep and narrow with a sheer drop.

There's only one community-run lodge at Khopra Danda. The lodge is pretty basic, but the wi-fi reception is perfect. After a hearty breakfast, you trek down to Swanta village and later hike to Ghorepani.

On your return, you will enter the Magar village and then to the famous Ghorepani Poon Hill route. Spend one night there and enjoy a beautiful sunrise view from the Poon Hill viewpoint. Slowly descend to Banthati via Nange Thanti (resting point) and end your trek after returning to Pokhara by vehicle. Your trip ends finally after you get back to Kathmandu.

Note: If you want a more exciting experience, you can add an additional day to this Khopra-12-day itinerary to hike up to Khayer Lake. The lake is at a height of approx—4500, which is more than the height of Annapurna Base Camp. But keep in mind the hike to the lake is quite difficult as you will gain an altitude above 800m. By planning and preparation, everyone can do it.

Khopra Alternatives: Explore Short, Long, Luxury, and Offbeat Treks

Looking for more. Not sure if Khopra Ridge is the right fit? Annapurna Region offers everything for the trekkers, from off-the-beaten treks, short and long, and challenging to luxury.

There are short treks like Mardi, Annapurna Panorama, and the short Annapurna Hike. If you are looking for longer treks, check out our Classis Annapurna Circuit or Annapurna Sanctuary.

If you feel the need to explore more trekking routes with off-the-beaten paths, like Khopra Ridge, you can try our Mohare Danda or the Tilicho Lake Trek.

For those who want premium-level comfort and luxury, Annapurna Luxury Trek will be a great package.