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11 days
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Annapurna
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Moderate
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4,660 m
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From 1 person
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Trekking
Highlights
- Khopra Danda (3,640 m), a high ridge facing Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South and Nilgiri
- Views straight across the Kali Gandaki gorge
- Community-run lodges that support the local villages
- Quiet trails through rhododendron forest
- The traditional village of Swanta
- A day hike to Khayer Lake (4,660 m)
Overview
The Khopra Danda Trek is a quiet ridge trek west of Poon Hill, on community-run trails away from the main routes. From Tadapani you walk through rhododendron forest to Dobato and Chistibung and up to Khopra Danda (3,640 m), a high ridge facing Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South and Nilgiri, with a day hike to Khayer Lake (4,660 m).
Simple community lodges, few other trekkers and views straight across the Kali Gandaki gorge make this a good choice for a trek that still feels remote. The route descends through the traditional village of Swanta before returning to Pokhara.
Know before you go
Best time to go
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best seasons, with stable weather and clear mountain views. In spring the rhododendron forests are in bloom.
Winter (December to February) is also possible, with clear days and quiet trails, though nights are cold and the Khayer Lake hike at 4,660 m depends on conditions. The monsoon (June to August) brings rain and cloud, and we do not recommend it.
Difficulty and fitness
This is a moderate trek with five to seven hours of walking on most days, including some steep climbs and descents through the forest, and a demanding round trip of seven to nine hours to Khayer Lake. The highest overnight at Khopra Danda (3,640 m) is reached gradually, and the high point of the trek is Khayer Lake (4,660 m), visited on a day hike.
No technical skills are needed, and the trek suits beginners with good general fitness. Lodges are simpler than on the main trails.
Permits
You need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System).
We arrange all permits for you before the trip. See Includes/Excludes for what is covered in the price.
Itinerary
Welcome to Nepal. On arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a Pikey Sherpa Adventure representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Later in the day your guide gives a trek briefing, checks your equipment and answers any questions. Overnight in a hotel in Kathmandu (1,400 m).
A scenic bus journey of six to seven hours follows the river valleys west to Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurna region. In the evening you can relax by Phewa Lake and prepare for the trek. Overnight in a hotel in Pokhara (820 m).
A short drive takes you to Kimche, where the trek begins with a steady climb through farmland and forest. The trail continues up through rhododendron woods to the ridge-top settlement of Tadapani, with views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre. Overnight in a teahouse in Tadapani (2,630 m).
Today you leave the main trails behind and follow a quiet forested ridge, gaining height steadily. Dobato is a small and peaceful stop with fine mountain views in clear weather. Overnight in a teahouse in Dobato (3,420 m).
An early start brings you to Muldai viewpoint for sunrise over the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. After returning for breakfast, the trail descends through quiet forest to the small settlement of Chistibung, where you stay in a community lodge. Overnight in a lodge in Chistibung (2,975 m).
A short but steady climb of three to four hours leads out of the forest onto the open ridge of Khopra Danda, facing Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South and Nilgiri. The afternoon is free to rest and enjoy the views across the Kali Gandaki gorge. Overnight in a lodge in Khopra Danda (3,640 m).
An early start takes you on a long climb to Khayer Lake (4,660 m), the highest point of the trek, before you return to Khopra Danda. The round trip takes seven to nine hours, so set off at a steady pace and carry warm layers. Overnight in a lodge in Khopra Danda (3,640 m).
Wake early for dawn views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South from the ridge, one of the highlights of the trek. You then descend through forest and farmland to the village of Swanta. Overnight in a teahouse in Swanta (2,200 m).
A walk of two to three hours leads down to the road head, where a vehicle meets you for the drive of three to four hours back to Pokhara. The afternoon is free to rest, stroll by the lake or enjoy a meal in town. Overnight in a hotel in Pokhara (820 m).
A scenic bus journey takes you back along the river valleys to Kathmandu, usually six to seven hours. On arrival you are transferred to your hotel, and the evening is free to relax or explore the city. Overnight in a hotel in Kathmandu (1,400 m).
Your trip ends today. Depending on your flight time, you may have a few free hours for last-minute shopping or a final stroll, before a Pikey Sherpa Adventure representative transfers you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight.
