Khopra - Ridge and Khayer Lake Trekking
The Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake Trek is a hidden gem in the Annapurna region, offering some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, and Nilgiri. This moderate trek takes you through traditional Gurung and Magar villages, lush forests, and high alpine ridges. The hig...
Trip Highlights
- Peaceful off-the-beaten-path trek with fewer trekkers
- Majestic sunrise views over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
- Ideal combination of nature, culture, and adventure
- Scenic ridge walks with panoramic mountain views
- Experience authentic Gurung and Magar culture
- Visit the sacred alpine Khayer Lake (4,660m)
Start and End Points
WhatsAppDetailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
1400mArrive in Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. After airport transfer and hotel check-in, meet your guide for a detailed briefing about the trek. The evening is free to explore the colorful streets of Thamel. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Drive or Fly to Pokhara (820m)
820mAfter breakfast, travel to Pokhara—either a 25-minute flight or a 6–7-hour scenic drive. Upon arrival, enjoy the calm lakeside atmosphere and views of Machhapuchhre reflecting over Phewa Lake. Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 3: Drive to Nayapul, Trek to Ghandruk (1,940m)
1940mA short drive (1.5 hours) from Pokhara brings you to Nayapul, where your trek begins. Following the Modi River, ascend gradually to Ghandruk, a charming Gurung village with stone houses and rich culture. The trek takes about 5–6 hours. Overnight in Ghandruk.
Day 4: Trek from Ghandruk to Tadapani (2,630m)
2630mThe trail climbs through oak and rhododendron forests, offering glimpses of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre. The trek takes about 3–4 hours, reaching Tadapani, a small settlement with close-up mountain views. Overnight at Tadapani.
Day 5: Trek from Tadapani to Dobato (3,350m)
3350mLeaving the main trail, you’ll enter a quieter path toward Dobato. The walk through dense forest gradually opens to stunning ridge views. On clear days, you can enjoy sunset over Dhaulagiri from Muldai Viewpoint. Trekking time is 5–6 hours. Overnight in Dobato.
Day 6: Trek from Dobato to Khopra Ridge (3,660m)
3660mToday’s trail climbs steadily toward Khopra Ridge, one of the best viewpoints in the Annapurna region. The views from Khopra include Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Fang, and Annapurna South. You can explore the ridge and relax at the community lodge. Trekking time is 5–6 hours. Overnight at Khopra Ridge.
Day 7: Hike to Khayer Lake (4,660m) and Return to Khopra Ridge
4660mThis is the most rewarding day of the trek. Start early for a challenging but scenic hike to Khayer Lake, a sacred glacial lake at the base of Annapurna South. Enjoy breathtaking views and spiritual tranquility before returning to Khopra. The full-day hike takes 7–8 hours round trip. Overnight at Khopra Ridge.
Day 8: Trek down to Swanta, Drive to Pokhara, Return to Kathmandu (1,400m)
1400mDescend through traditional Magar villages and terraced hillsides to reach Swanta Village. After a few hours of walking, take a jeep back to Pokhara and continue to Kathmandu either by evening flight or drive. Overnight in Kathmandu or departure.
Click an itinerary day on the left to focus the map.