None
None

Khopra Trek 9 Days Itinerary

Tour Info

trip code

EN-027

Starting Point/ End Point

Kathmandu

Accommodations

Lodge/ Tea House

Max Altitude

3660m (Khopra Danda)

Duration

9 days

country

Nepal

Trip grade

Moderate

Activities

Trekking

Best Season

March, April, May, September, October, November

Overview

The Khopra trek is a trekking route that combines the mountain views with local culture, making it good for both tourism and trekking. From Khopra Danda, you are able to witness peaks like Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre, and Nilgiri. The trail passes through varied landscapes, including rhododendron forests, terraced farms, waterfalls, and mountain ridges. This allows you to witness the region's natural diversity. Along the way, you can experience the traditional life, local houses, and cultural practices of local people. The trek duration is 9 days, and provides a balance of adventure, nature, and cultural experience, making it suitable for trekkers with moderate fitness. 

Details

Khopra Trek is a pathway located in the Annapurna region. This trek offers a view of the mountains and a glimpse of local culture. From the Khopra Ridge (Danda), you can witness mountains such as Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Machhapuchree and Nilgiri Himal.

Trails go through different types of landscapes, such as rhododendron forests, terraced farms, waterfalls, and mountain ridges. The paths contain the slopes as well as steeper sections, showing the natural variety of the region. You can also notice the local farming and seasonal changes in plants during trekking.

On the route, there are villages of Gurung and Magar. You can experience the mode of living, the traditional house, and the cultural practices of the people. The trails are relatively quieter on the whole, which is good for those looking to enjoy nature and want to experience the local life.

Highlights

  • Trek through rhododendron and pine forests. 

  • Enjoy beautiful views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains.

  • Visit Khopra Danda (3660m) for sunrise and sunset views.

  • Watch the culture of the Gurung and Magar communities.

  • Trek through fields, valleys, and landscapes.

  • Stay in tea houses and enjoy local hospitality.

  • Trek to Poon Hill for more mountain views.

  • Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

  • Explore the attractive places of Pokhara. 

  • Spot wildlife such as Himalayan Tahr, monkey and Danphe (pheasant) during the trek.

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu and Pre-Trek preparation

Your tourism journey to Khopra Danda begins once you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). There, you meet the Ever Nepal representative. After that, you get transferred to your 3-star hotel. In the hotel, you check into your room and take a rest. After that, you are invited to attend a pre-trek briefing session with our experienced guide. This session can help you learn about the route, safety and permits. After learning about these, you can prepare yourself by checking the trekking gear, packing essentials, and getting a good rest for the trek ahead. At night, you get dinner and stay overnight. 

  • Max Elevation: 1,400 meters (Kathmandu, arrival point)

  • Travel Distance: 6 to 8 kilometers

  • Travel Hours: 20 to 30 minutes

  • Accommodation: 3-star hotel 

  • Meals: Dinner

Day 02: A Full Day Guided Tour

This day is fully reserved for exploring Kathmandu city. After breakfast, your sightseeing tour to Kathmandu begins with our guide. You visit the UNESCO World Heritage site in a private vehicle for around 4 to 5 hours. The site you are visiting are:

  • Swayambhunath Stupa (The Monkey Temple): Situated at the top of the hillock on the western side, this stupa is also known as Samhengu or the monkey temple, as it is home to many monkeys. From here, you can observe the whole Kathmandu valley. 

  • Pashupatinath Temple: Located in the heart of Kathmandu alongside the sacred Bagmati River, this temple is a revered site constructed in pagoda architecture. The holy temple is visited by Hindu devotees and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is made up of ancient temples, statues and scriptures. The design of this temple is unique and impressive. It has four main doors and a golden Gajur at the top.

  • Boudhanath Stupa: The Boudhanath stupa is an ancient Buddhist stupa (25,00 years old) that was built around the 5th century. The stupa contains the four pairs of eyes that are facing in the four cardinal directions. The eyes watch people's karma and guide them on the right path. You can see Tibetan Buddhist pilgrims walking around the stupa, spinning prayer wheels for enlightenment.

  • Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Bhaktapur Durbar Square, the former palace of King Bhupatindra Malla, is located in the Bhaktapur district. It is built in pagoda- and shikhara-style and attracts the people to see famous monuments such as the 55-Window Palace, Nyatapole Temple, Golden Lion’s Gate, Bhairava Temple, and Vatsala Temple. 

After exploring these monuments, you can walk through Thamel, check out local stores, and purchase handmade souvenirs.

  • Max Elevation: 1,450 meters (Swayambhunath Stupa, highest point in the Kathmandu sightseeing tour)

  • Travel Distance: 25 to 30 kilometers (total driving between sites)

  • Travel Hours: 6 to 7 hours

  • Accommodation: 3-star hotel 

  • Meal: Breakfast 

Day 03: Fly or Drive to Pokhara- Full Day Guided Tour

After breakfast, you continue your tourism journey towards Pokhara. To reach Pokhara, you have two options: travel by road or by air. If you choose to reach the Day 3 destination by flight, it takes around 25 minutes and offers an aerial view of the diverse landscapes, hills, and Trishuli River gorge. Otherwise, you can choose the road route, which takes around 5 to 6 hours by covering the distance of 215 km. If you take the ground transportation, you can witness the green valleys, Bandipur town, Annapurna foothills and Trishuli river. You can take any medium to reach Pokhara. Upon reaching Pokhara, you can take a short rest and get ready to explore Pokhara city. Our guide comes with you to help you explore the city. In Pokhara, you can visit Phewa Lake, World Peace Pagoda, Mahendra Cave, Gupteshor Cave, Seti River gorge and Begnas Lake. In the evening, you can also witness the sunset view from Sarangkot. After that, you come to your hotel where you eat dinner and sleep. 

  • Max Elevation: 827 meters (Pokhara)

  • Travel Distance: 215 kilometers (Kathmandu to Pokhara by road)

  • Travel Hours: 5 to 6 hours (drive) or 25 minutes (flight)

  • Accommodation: 3-star hotel 

  • Meals: Breakfast

Day 04: Drive to Kimche (1,784m),Trek to Tadapani via Ghandruk(1,940m)

On this day, your trekking journey begins. After an early breakfast, you have a drive towards a kimchi. While on a drive, you have an opportunity to witness a view of Mt. Machapuchhree, Modi Khola, local villages and a glimpse of Gurung culture. After a 2 to 3 hour drive, you reach Kimche. Upon reaching Kimche, you start your first trek towards Tadapani. To arrive here, you follow the route of Ghandruk. While trekking, the trails offer beautiful views of Mt Annapurna South and Mt Machhapuchhre. Furthermore, you can witness a forest, a traditional Gurung village, and a farm during the trek. It takes around 5 to 6 hours covering a distance of 7.8km(4.9 miles) to reach Tadapani. Upon reaching here, you can take a rest and wait for a sunset view. At night, you eat dinner and stay overnight. 

  • Max Elevation: 1,940 meters (Tadapani)

  • Travel Distance: 7.8 kilometers

  • Travel Hours: 5 to 6 hours (trek) and 2 to 3 hours (drive to Kimche)

  • Accommodation: Tea house/Lodge

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 05: Trek To Byali kharkha(3,450m /11,318fts)

In the early morning, you are provided with breakfast. After that, you continue your trek towards the Byali Kharkha. On the way to the day 5 destination, the trail offers you a beautiful view of mountains such as Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri. Moreover, you can also witness forest (rhododendron, oak, and bamboo), wildlife ( monkeys, deer, Himalayan Tahr, and Danfe) and the Kali Gandaki river. After you trek for around 5 to 6 hours, covering a distance of 10km (6.21 miles), you reach the Byali Kharkha, where you eat dinner and spend a night. 

  • Max Elevation: 3,450 meters (Byali Kharkha)

  • Travel Distance: 10 kilometers

  • Travel Hours: 5 to 6 hours

  • Accommodation: Tea house/Lodge

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 06: Trek from Bayali to Khopra Danda(3,660m)

On this day, you reach your final destination of the trek. After breakfast, you continue your trek towards the Khopra Danda, which takes around 5 to 6 hours by covering a distance of 8km (4.9 miles). The trail ascends through the forest and open areas. You can observe the view of mountains such as Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Nilgiri, and Machhapuchhre. Furthermore, if you are lucky, you also have a chance to spot wildlife such as the Himalayan Tahr and Danphe (pheasant). After a few hours of trekking, you finally reach the Khopra Danda - a viewpoint from where you can witness beautiful views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains. Here, you can enjoy the Gurung/Magar culture, take photos, create memories and watch the sunset before having dinner and going to sleep. 

  • Max Elevation: 3,660 meters (Khopra Danda)

  • Travel Distance: 8 kilometers

  • Travel Hours: 5 to 6 hours

  • Accommodation: Tea house/Lodge

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 07: Trek from Khopra Ridge to Swanta (2,240m/7,874ft)

From day 7, your return journey starts. After an early breakfast, you start to descend towards Swanta. It takes around 4 to 5 hours, covering a distance of 9.6 km (5.9 miles) to reach the destination. While on the way towards the day 7 destination, you can observe a scene of mountains, rhododendron forest, landscapes, waterfalls, and a glimpse of Gurung/Magar culture and farming life. The trail is less crowded, which allows you to experience a beautifully serene atmosphere and enjoy nature and village life. After some hours of trekking, you reach a Swanta where you have dinner and stay overnight. 

  • Max Elevation: 3,660 meters (between Khopra Danda and Swanta)

  • Travel Distance: 9.6 kilometers

  • Travel Hours: 4 to 5 hours

  • Accommodation: Tea house/Lodge

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 08: Trek from Swanta to Ghorepani(2,870m/9,413ft)

In the early morning, you get your breakfast. After that, you continue your return journey towards Ghorepani. The trails ascend through the forest and fields, while offering a nice view of the surrounding hills. During the trek, you can also observe the Gurung and Magar villages, fields, and waterfalls. You also need to cross the high-suspension bridge to reach Ghorepani. After a few hours of trekking, you arrive in Ghorepani, where you have dinner and stay overnight.

  • Max Elevation: 2,870 meters (Ghorepani)

  • Travel Distance: 10 kilometers

  • Travel Hours: 5 to 6 hours

  • Accommodation: Tea House/Lodge

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 09: Detour to Poon Hill (3210m),Trek to Hile (1450m),Drive to Pokhara

This day is the final day of your journey. In the early morning, you take a short hike towards Poon Hill to witness 360-degree beautiful views of the Himalayas (Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Manaslu, and Hiunchuli), the sunrise view and the surrounding valleys. You can take photos, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and take a moment to enjoy the views. After that, you start trekking towards the Hile. The trail descends through the Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Banthanli to reach Hile. You also need to pass the streams, rhododendron forests, and stone staircases. After that, you reach Hile, and from here, you take a road transportation to return to Pokhara - the place where your journey ends. Upon reaching Pokhara, you can visit places you did not see earlier, such as Rupa Lake, Bindhyabasini temple and the International Mountain museum. After that, you can return to your home country. 

  • Max Elevation: 3,210 meters (Poon Hill)

  • Travel Distance: 18 kilometers

  • Travel Hours: 6 to 7 hours (trek) and 2 to 3 hours (drive to Pokhara)

  • Accommodation: Tea house/Lodge

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Trek Route

Khopra Trek Route

Packing List

The Khopra Trek requires elevation gain within a short span. In this trek, you will move from the sub-tropical zone at Pokhara to the alpine zone of the Khopra Ridge. Below is the list to make sure that you are ready for the treks.

  • Head & Hands

    • Warm wool or fleece hat

    • Sun hat or baseball cap

    • Polarized sunglasses with UV protection

    • Lightweight inner gloves

    • Waterproof outer gloves or mittens

  • Upper Body

    • Moisture-wicking base layers (synthetic or merino wool)

    • Mid-layer fleece jacket or pullover

    • Waterproof and windproof breathable shell jacket

    • Insulated down jacket (essential for evenings at 3,600m)

  • Lower Body

    • Hiking trousers (zip-off versions are useful)

    • Thermal leggings for higher altitudes

    • Waterproof shell trousers

    • Comfortable shorts for lower elevations

  • Footwear

    • Well-broken-in waterproof hiking boots

    • Sandals or lightweight shoes for the teahouse

    • Moisture-wicking trekking socks (4-5 pairs)

  • Gear & Accessories

    • 30-40L Daypack with rain cover

    • Telescopic trekking poles (highly recommended for descents)

    • Sleeping bag rated to -10°C

    • Headlamp with extra batteries

    • Reusable water bottles or hydration bladder (2L minimum)

  • Toiletries & First Aid

    • Sunscreen (SPF 40+) and lip balm

    • Personal medical kit (ibuprofen, bandages, blister tape)

    • Biodegradable wet wipes and hand sanitizer

    • Quick-drying travel towel

    • Water purification tablets or a filter

  • Specific Gears for Women

While on the trek, there are certain essentials that women must carry in order to complete the journey successfully. Having these gears ensures comfort, hygiene, and protection throughout the trek in changing weather and altitude conditions.

  • Comfortable, high-support sports bras

  • Sanitary products (menstrual cups or biodegradable pads)

  • Pee cloth (optional for long trail sections)

Documents Required

The Annapurna Conservation Area is a protected zone. While the Khopra Trek does not require a restricted area permit, you must have the standard documentation for the Annapurna region, which will be checked at various checkpoints along the trail.

  • ACAP Permit (Annapurna Conservation Area Project): This permit is an entry fee for the protected conservation area. It costs approximately. 3,000 NPR for foreigners.

  • TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System): It is required for hiker safety and tracking, and can cost around 2,000 NPR.

  • Passport: Must be valid for at least six months. Carry several photocopies.

  • Passport Photos: You will need at least 4-6 photos for your trekking permits and local SIM cards.

  • Travel Insurance: Must specifically cover emergency helicopter evacuation and medical expenses up to 4,000 meters.

What's included

  • Two nights’ hotel stay in Pokhara on a Bed & Breakfast (B/B) plan.

  • All shuttle services are between the airport, hotel, and bus park.

  • Meals throughout the trip, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a cup of coffee or tea.

  • Round-trip tourist bus seat from Kathmandu to Pokhara and back.

  • Transportation by Jeep or car during the trek.

  • Services of a licensed English-speaking trekking guide.

  • All guide-related expenses, including meals, insurance, salary, accommodation, food, and necessary equipment.

  • Hiking poles and a first aid medical kit were provided by the guide.

  • All required permits (including trekking permits and TIMS) and necessary paperwork.

  • Managed all the local and government taxes and official fees. 

  • Farewell dinner at Pokhara after the trek concludes.

What's excluded

  • Airfare charges (both domestic and international).

  • Visa fees.

  • Travel and medical insurance.

  • All personal expenses, including shopping, bar bills, hot showers, phone calls, laundry, snacks, and internet.

  • Personal trekking gear and clothes. 

  • Extra accommodation within the lively city of Nepal – Kathmandu.

  • Emergency expenses, such as helicopter evacuation.

  • Expenses for tours in Pokhara and entrance fees in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

  • Tips for guides and porters. 

  • Any other expenses  that are not listed in the cost includes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the level of difficulty for the Khopra Trek in comparison to the Annapurna Base Camp Trek?

In comparison to the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, the Khopra Trek is seen to be moderate in difficulty. The climb to the top of the Khopra Ridge from either Swanta or Tadapani will have some fairly steep parts.

Is there a risk of altitude sickness on this trek?

Yes, because at Khopra Danda, you will be staying at an elevation of 3,660m, although this is much lower compared to other treks, altitude sickness can still pose a potential problem.

Can I do this trek in the winter?

Winter months, such as December and January, can be extremely cold, with possible snowfall in the Khopra ridge area, making the route difficult to trace. The best times are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November).

What kind of food is available at the "Community Lodges" on this route?

The Khopra Trek is well-known for the existence of community-owned lodging facilities that provide fresh food sourced locally. Most of the food is in the form of Dal Bhat, pasta, and potatoes.

Is there coverage by any mobile networks in the ridge?

There is occasional coverage from Ncell and NTC in some places, but it is unreliable at Khopra Danda and Byali Kharka.

Do I need to carry a sleeping bag for the trip?

Yes, you should. Even though the teahouses have blankets available, they may not suffice in the chilly nights up high, and your personal sleeping bag can be more sanitary.

Are there hot showers available?

Most teahouses at lower elevations (Ghorepani, Ghandruk) offer hot showers for a small fee. At Byali and Khopra, facilities are much more basic.

Am I able to see the sunrise from the lodge at Khopra Danda?

Yes, the uniqueness of this trip is that the lodge at Khopra Danda is located on top of the ridge, so that you will be able to watch the sunrise at Dhaulagiri from the lodge.

How much cash should I carry?

You need to carry enough money in Nepalese rupees for your individual needs because once you get out of Pokhara, you won’t be able to find any ATMs.

Is the water safe to drink?

You should use water purification tablets or a filter. Most lodges also sell "Safe Drinking Water," which is UV-treated or boiled, but avoid buying single-use plastic bottles to protect the environment.

User Review