Khopra Danda – 13 Days
Khopra Danda – 13 Days

Trip Overview
This 13-day treks, with a maximum altitude of 4660 meters (Khayer Lake, which is an optional short hike), takes travelers to an incredible viewpoint overlooking the Kali Gandaki deepest Gorge in the world. The trekking trail consists of rare wildlife and flora, including Nepal’s national flower, the rhododendron. Dense forests, rushing rivers and snow-covered mountain peaks make each day of walking extraordinarily enjoyable and lifetime memorable.
Best Season to Go
The best times to do Khopra Danda trekking are in the spring (March to May) and the fall (September to November). Khopra danda weather is stable, the skies are clear, and the mountains are easy to see during these times. The rhododendron forests are in full bloom in the spring, and the trails are dry and the landscapes are bright in the fall. Winter (December to February) is also an option, especially for people who want to be alone, but the weather can be very cold. The monsoon season, which runs from June to August, isn’t great because of the rain and leeches.
What Makes Khopra Danda Trek Special?
The Khopra Danda trekking is different from other treks because it has quiet trails, real cultural experiences, and mountain views that are as good as any in Nepal. The path takes you through beautiful villages like Swanta and Chistibung before taking you to the amazing viewpoint at Khopra Ridge. This trek is less busy than the Ghorepani route, so it feels more personal and immersive. This adventure also has more depth because you can take side trips to Khayer Lake and hidden local shrines.
How Difficult Is Khopra Danda Trek?
The trek is moderate, so most people with a basic level of fitness can do it. Walking for 5 to 7 hours a day is possible on well-kept trails with gradual climbs. The highest point is Khopra Danda with an altitude of 3,660 meters high. This is high enough to see some amazing views but low enough that most travelers won’t get sick from the altitude. It helps to have been on a trek before, but it’s not required.
Permits Required
To complete the Khopra Danda Trek, you will need two permits:
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Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
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TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
Skyline Treks will arrange all necessary permits on your behalf before the trek begins.
Training and Preparation
This trek isn’t too hard, but it’s still a good idea to get in shape beforehand. Walking, hiking, or doing light cardio workouts on a regular basis for a few weeks before your trip will help you build up your stamina. Training should focus on building leg strength and stamina, as well as getting ready for long days of walking at high altitudes. For comfort and stability, you need trekking poles and the right shoes.
Mountain Views
The Khopra Danda ridge has clear views of some of Nepal’s most famous peaks, such as Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). The view from the ridge at sunrise and sunset is especially beautiful. You can enjoy these views in peace and quiet because there aren’t as many people around, unlike the busier viewpoints in the Annapurna region.
Altitude Sickness and Prevention
Khopra Danda altitude is just under 3,700 meters high, which is high enough for some people to get sick from the altitude. It’s important to go up slowly and drink enough water, even though the risk is lower than on higher Himalayan treks. Skyline Treks includes days for proper acclimatization in the itinerary and has guides who are trained to spot and deal with early signs of altitude sickness. If symptoms show up, the first thing to do is rest and go down.
What to Expect
Expect a good mix of cultural experiences, forest trails, and mountain scenery. You’ll walk through thick rhododendron and oak forests, stay in real mountain lodges, and see how people live in remote villages. In some places, the trail isn’t as well-kept, which makes for a more authentic and rustic trekking experience. Side hikes to Khayer Lake and secret viewpoints are great ways to connect with nature and your spiritual side.
Brief Khopra Danda Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu
Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (Duration: 6-7 Hours) or, 30 minutes flight to Pokhara (910m/2985ft)
Day 3: 45 minutes drive from Pokhara to Nayapul and commence trek to Tikhedhunga (1495m/4905ft)(Covering Distance: 9 km, Duration: 4 Hours)
Day 4: Trek to Ghorepani (2853m) 5 hrs (B,L,D)
Day 5: Early in the morning 40 minutes hike to Poon Hill (3210m) and back to Ghorepani
Day 6: Trek from Bhaishi Kharka – Khopra Danda (Ridge) (3660m.)
Day 7: Trek from Khopra Danda – Paudwar (1750m.)
Day 8: Trek from Paudwar – Swanta (2400m) 3 hours
Day 9: Trek from Swanta – Bhaishi Kharka (3450m.)
Day 10: Trek from Bhaishi Kharka – Tadapani (2675m.)
Day 11: Trek from Tadapani- Pokhara (900m)
Day 12: 7 Hours drive or 30 minutes flight to Kathmandu
Day 13: Departure to the Airport in our Private vehicle/Farewell
Why Choose Skyline Treks for Khopra Danda Trek
Skyline Treks is the best at professionalism and local knowledge, so you can be sure your trip will be safe and memorable. We don’t just guide; we make meaningful Himalayan experiences by planning trips carefully, hiring experienced guides, and giving each customer personal attention. Because we care about responsible tourism, respect for other cultures, and making our guests happy, trekkers from all over the world trust us.
Things You Should Know
There aren’t many services along the upper trail past Chistibung, and phone and internet signals can be spotty. Teahouse rooms are simple but comfortable, and guests share bathrooms. At lower elevations, you can often get hot showers and charging options, but they may cost more. Weather can change quickly, especially at higher altitudes, so it’s important to be ready for anything.
Is Khopra Danda Trek for Me?
Khopra Danda is a great choice if you want to go on a trek that isn’t as crowded as the Ghorepani or Annapurna Base Camp. It’s great for trekkers who want a moderate challenge, real culture, and amazing Himalayan views without going too high or too far away. This hike is good for both people who have never hiked before and people who have hiked a lot and want to try something new.
Here are some key highlights and information about the Khopra Danda Trek:
- Scenic Beauty: The trek offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, as well as picturesque landscapes, lush rhododendron forests, and charming villages.
- Community-Based Trek: The Khopra Danda Trek is known for its community-based tourism approach. Trekkers have the opportunity to stay in teahouses and lodges run by local communities, which helps to support the local economy.
- Itinerary: The typical Khopra Danda Trek itinerary varies, but it usually takes around 7-10 days to complete. It can be customized to suit your preferences and fitness level. The trek often starts and ends in Nayapul or Phedi and includes stops at Ghorepani, Tadapani, Bayeli, Khopra Danda, and Swanta among other villages.
- Khopra Danda: The main attraction of the trek is Khopra Danda, a ridge that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.
- Less Crowded: One of the advantages of this trek is that it is less crowded than some of the more popular routes, allowing for a quieter and more serene trekking experience.
- Fitness Level: The Khopra Danda Trek from Pokhara is considered moderately challenging, and it’s suitable for trekkers with a moderate level of fitness. You will encounter some steep ascents and descents along the way.
- Permits: Trekkers need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) card to trek in this region. It’s advisable to obtain these permits in Kathmandu or Pokhara before starting the trek.
- Best Time to Trek: The best time to undertake the Khopra Danda Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is favorable, and the views are at their best.
Meals
Local teahouses and lodges serve food during the trek. You can expect simple but healthy foods like dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, vegetable curry, soups, and Tibetan bread. You can also get tea, coffee, and snacks from the area. Skyline Treks makes sure that all meals are clean and tasty, and they can also make vegetarian and special dietary meals upon request.
Accommodation
There are clean and friendly teahouses and community-run lodges where you can stay. Most of the time, two people share a room and a bathroom. You can expect warm hospitality and beautiful views, even though the amenities are basic. You can get blankets, but it’s best to bring your own sleeping bag for extra comfort.
Why Choose Khopra Danda Trek?
The Khopra Danda Trek is a great mix of peacefulness, cultural understanding, and natural beauty. It doesn’t have the crowds that more touristy routes do, and the mountain views are just as good, if not better. This hike is both peaceful and enriching because you can visit Khayer Lake, meet people from the area, and walk through quiet forests. It’s the perfect adventure for people who want to go deeper without going too far.
Plan Your Khopra Danda Trek Today
Let Skyline Treks handle the details so you can enjoy the trip comfortably without any worry. We can make the perfect itinerary for you, whether you’re traveling alone, with a partner, or with a group of friends. Contact us today to find out about prices, dates, or a custom trekking package.
Itinerary
Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu
When you get to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, a staff member from our Skyline Treks will greet you and take you to your hotel in the center of the city. After you check in, you can relax or walk around the busy streets of Thamel, which are known for their shops, cafes, and stores that sell trekking gear. The hotel will give you a short briefing before you go on your trek. Stay the night at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (Duration: 6-7 Hours) or, 30 minutes flight to Pokhara (910m/2985ft)
We will then go to Pokhara after having breakfast. We can either drive through hills and river valleys for 6 to 7 hours or take a short domestic flight that lasts only 30 minutes. Pokhara is a peaceful city by the lake with beautiful views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare ranges. When we get there, you can relax or take a boat ride on Phewa Lake. Stay in a hotel in Pokhara for the night.
Pokhara to Kade drive and trek to Pothana
This morning, we will drive a short distance to Kande, where our trek begins. The trail goes up from Kande through rhododendron and oak forests, passing through the beautiful Australian Camp before reaching Pothana, a Gurung village with beautiful views of Machapuchare (Fishtail). It takes about three to four hours to walk. We spend the night in a teahouse in Pothana.
Pothana trek to Jhinudanda
Today, we will go down through green forests and small towns to the Modi Khola River, and then back up to the village of Landruk. Jhinu Danda is known for its natural hot springs, and the trail to get there goes steadily up after we cross a suspension bridge. We can then relax in the hot pools by the river and take a dip. Then stay the night in a teahouse in Jhinu Danda.
Jhinudanda trek to Chuile
The trail goes up through thick forests where we can hear birds singing and see wildlife from time to time after a hearty breakfast. Before we get to Chuile, we’ll pass through quiet and peaceful villages like Chhomrong and Ghurjung. This quiet village has great views of the mountains and is a great place to relax before going to more remote areas. We stay the night at a teahouse in Chuile.
Chuile to Dobato
The trail today goes deeper into the Annapurna region. You will hike through thick forests of rhododendrons and bamboo, with occasional clearings that give you amazing views. Dobato is a quiet village in the woods that leads to the panoramic viewpoint of Mulde. The air starts to feel thinner as you get higher up. A night at a teahouse in Dobato.
Dobato trek to Mulde for the best panoramic view of Annapurna Range and trek to Sristibung (Dhankharka)
We get up early and take a short hike to the Mulde Viewpoint, which is one of the most beautiful places to see in the Annapurna region. If the weather is nice, we’ll also get to see a beautiful sunrise over all of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. After taking in the views, we go back to Dobato for breakfast. Then, we continue on our trek through untouched alpine forests and meadows to Sristibung (also known as Dhankharka). We stay the night at a teahouse in Sristibung.
Sristibung to Khopra Danda
The trek today is short but worth it. The trail goes up slowly through alpine plants and yak pastures until it reaches the Khopra Ridge. When we get to Khopra Danda, we can see Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Annapurna South, and the Kali Gandaki Gorge below in all their glory. This is one of the best parts of the trek because it gives you a real sense of the wilderness in the Himalayas. We spend the night in a teahouse on Khopra Ridge.
Khopra Danda Saunta via Sristibung
After seeing the sunrise from Khopra Ridge, the trail goes back to Sristibung and then goes down even more through peaceful scenery to get to Saunta, a quiet village in a lower-altitude area. Today’s trip includes both forested paths and visits to traditional villages where we can learn about their culture. We stay the night at a teahouse in Saunta.
Saunta to Tatopani
As we go down more, we’ll pass through terraced hillsides and subtropical forests on your way to Tatopani, a well-known village on the Kali Gandaki River. Once we’re there, we can then relax our tired muscles in the natural hot springs, which are a favorite treat for hikers. This quiet village by the river is a great place to eat local food and meet people. We spend the night in a guesthouse in Tatopani.
Tatopani drive back to Pokhara
A private car will take us back to Pokhara after breakfast along beautiful mountain roads. After we get to Pokhara, we check into the hotel and have a relaxing afternoon. You can walk around the Lakeside area, see the Peace Stupa, or just relax and enjoy the view of the lake and the local food. We stay the night at a hotel in Pokhara.
7 Hours drive or 30 minutes flight to Kathmandu
We will then go back to Kathmandu today, either by car for seven hours or by plane for thirty minutes. When we get there, you’ll be taken to your hotel where you can spend the rest of the day seeing more of the capital, shopping for souvenirs, or just relaxing before you leave. Stay overnight in a hotel in Kathmandu.
Departure to the Airport in our Private vehicle/Farewell
Your trek to Khopra Danda is over. A Skyline Treks representative will take you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your next flight, depending on when your flight leaves. We hope that you enjoyed your trip and will see you once again for another trip to the Himalayas!
Include/Exclude
What's Included
- Pickup and drop off, from and to International/Domestic Airport in our private transport.
- Accommodation including Breakfast (B) at a hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Trekking route map to Annapurna Base Camp.
- Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) trekking permit fee.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) entry permit fee.
- Accommodation and three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) while on Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Lodge.
- Professionally escorted hike to ABC by licensed local guide speaking English with one porter for every two persons.
- Accommodation, food, wages, equipment and insurance to staffs.
- Safety and first aid kit.
- All land travels in our private vehicle as per above itineraries.
What's Not Included
- Nepal entry visa fee. You may easily issue the visa upon your arrival at Tribhuvan
- International Airport, Kathmandu within a few minutes for US $30 (Duration 15 days from the date of issue). You will each need to bring 2 passport-size photos.
- Kathmandu/Pokhara Hotel Lunch and Dinner (L and D).
- Kathmandu-Pokhara or Pokhara-Kathmandu, Domestic Airfare per person US $125 only (If you require).
- Travel insurance and emergency medical evacuation.
- International air ticket.
- Personal expenditures (lunch, dinner, alcoholic drinks and snacks not mentioned in the above itinerary) and trekking equipment of your own.
- Laundry, hot showers, bar bills, internet charges etc.
- Tips for the porter, driver, and trekking guide. (Tipping is practical)
Fixed Departure
Reviews
Khopra Danda
Khopra Danda Trek was an absolute gem! The trails were peaceful, with fewer crowds than the main trekking routes. The panoramic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri were simply stunning, and the sunrise at Khopra Ridge was worth every step
Khopra Danda
Khopra Danda Trek was an absolute gem! The trails were peaceful, with fewer crowds than the main trekking routes. The panoramic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri were simply stunning, and the sunrise at Khopra Ridge was worth every step
Khopra Danda
Watching the sunset from Khopra Danda was magical! The colors lighting up the mountains were breathtaking.
Khopra Danda
Watching the sunset from Khopra Danda was magical! The colors lighting up the mountains were breathtaking.
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