Khopra Danda Trek- 6 Days

The Khopra Danda Trek is one of the best off-the-beaten-path treks in the Annapurna region of Nepal, ideal for those seeking quiet trails, authentic village experiences, and breathtaking Himalayan views. This less-crowded route takes you through traditional Gurung and Magar villages, dense rhododendron forests, open alpine meadows, and dramatic ridgelines. The trek culminates at Khopra Danda (3,660 m) — a scenic ridge offering panoramic views of Annapurna South, Mt. Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Tukuche Peak.

Your trekking adventure starts with a drive from Pokhara to Ghandruk, a picturesque village known for its cultural richness and traditional stone houses. From there, you hike through lush forests to Tadapani, then continue toward Bayeli Kharka, gradually gaining elevation. As the landscape changes from green hills to high-altitude pastures, you’ll reach the spectacular Khopra Ridge, a quiet and peaceful alternative to the crowded viewpoints on other treks.

One of the highlights of this trek is the optional day hike to Khayer Lake (4,660 m) — a sacred glacial lake that holds religious significance for Hindus and Buddhists. This day trip adds a challenging yet rewarding element to the trek and gives trekkers a chance to connect with the spiritual side of the Himalayas.

The descent takes you through Swanta village, known for its warm hospitality and local cheese production, then onward to Ghorepani. From here, a pre-dawn hike takes you to Poon Hill (3,210 m), a world-famous viewpoint offering one of the best sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The trek ends at Birethanti, where you’ll be picked up and driven back to Pokhara, a relaxing lakeside city perfect for unwinding after the journey.

This 6-day Khopra Danda Trek is perfect for nature lovers, culture seekers, and adventure enthusiasts looking to experience Nepal’s Himalayas without the crowds. With stunning Himalayan landscapes, rich local traditions, and varied terrain, this trek is a hidden treasure in the heart of the Annapurna region.

Important Travel Note

The Khopra Danda Trek begins with a 6–7 hour tourist bus ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara (approximately 200 km), included in the trek package. For those with limited time or preferring convenience, a 20-minute domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara can be arranged at an extra cost.

We recommend that all trekkers arrive in Kathmandu by 3:00 PM at least one day before the departure date to allow for last-minute gear checks, document submission, and other preparations.

Online Trip Briefing

Once your booking is confirmed, our team will schedule an online trek briefing session to help you prepare for the Khopra Danda Trek. The session will cover:

• A complete equipment checklist
  
• Detailed day-by-day itinerary
  
• Trail conditions and weather expectations
  
• Safety guidelines and cultural etiquette

We’ll send you available dates and times via email. The briefing will be conducted once we receive your essential documents, ensuring you’re fully prepared for a safe and memorable Himalayan trekking experience

Depending on the trekking season, you need to adjust your clothing and equipment accordingly. However, the following is a necessity list compiled to help you pack smartly. Please bring only the essentials as the luggage limit is 9 kg per trekker. We assign one porter to carry no more than 18 kg of luggage. It’s best to team up with a fellow trekker and pack your items in a duffle bag with a capacity of over 60 liters.

Head

• Sun hat (wide-brimmed) for sun protection
  
• Beanie for warmth during cold conditions
  
• Buff or neck gaiter for sun protection and warmth
  
• Lightweight headlamp with adjustable brightness for nighttime use
• High SPF sunscreen to protect your skin
  
• Lip balm with SPF to prevent chapping
  
• Sunglasses with UV protection
  
• Face wipes for freshening up
  

Upper Body

• Moisture-wicking t-shirts (both short and long sleeves)
  
• Thermal base layer for colder temperatures
  
• Fleece jacket and down jacket for insulation
  
• Lightweight puffy jacket for additional warmth
  
• Waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
  
• Raincoat for wet conditions
  
• Lightweight, breathable long-sleeve shirt
  
• Polypropylene underwear (four pairs recommended)
  

Hands

• Insulated gloves or mittens for cold weather
  
• Waterproof gloves for rainy or wet conditions
  

Lower Body

• Quick-drying pants or trousers (convertible or full-length)
  
• Insulated pants for colder weather
  
• Lightweight cotton pants for comfort
  
• Thermal leggings or long underwear for extra warmth
  
• Two pairs of thermal or trekking trousers

Feet

• Thick wool or synthetic moisture-wicking socks (4 pairs)
  
• Waterproof, ankle-supportive, broken-in hiking boots with good traction
  
• Sandals for camp use or river crossings
  
• Gaiters to protect against mud, water, and debris
  

Toiletries

• Biodegradable bar soap
  
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
  
• Medium-size drying towel
  
• Wet wipes or hand sanitizers
  
• Toilet paper (carry in a Ziplock bag)
  
• Feminine hygiene products
  
• Travel-sized shampoo
  
• Nail clippers
  
• Small mirror
  

Backpacks

• Duffle bag (over 60 liters capacity) for porter to carry — one duffle bag per two trekkers
  
• Backpack or daypack (20-30 liters capacity) for personal use
  

Accessories

• Adjustable, lightweight trekking poles (preferably collapsible)
  
• Water bottle or hydration bladder with at least 2 liters capacity (insulated recommended)
  
• Water purification system (tablets, filter, or UV purifier)
  
• Sleeping bag rated for -10 to -15 degrees Celsius
  

Extra Items

• Camera or smartphone with extra memory cards and batteries
  
• Extra batteries or rechargeable power bank for charging devices
  
• Two-pin charging plug
  
• Basic first aid supplies (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, Diamox)
  
• Personal medications (inhalers, allergy meds, etc.)
  
• Few passport-size photos
  
• Photocopies of passport
  
• Notebook and pen
  
• Binoculars
  
• Swiss army knife or multi-tool with scissors, can opener, etc.
  

Note:

We provide used (non-waterproof) duffle bags, down jackets, and sleeping bags if you do not have your own.

Arrival, Welcome, and Trek Start

Please arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu by 3 PM at least one day before your trek departure date. This allows enough time for your final preparations. We offer free airport pick-up for a smooth arrival experience. Our friendly representative will greet you with a traditional Marigold garland and transfer you to your hotel in a private vehicle.

On the trek departure day, you will board a tourist bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara. If you prefer a quicker journey, a 20-minute domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara is available at an additional cost.

Accommodations

During the trek, you will stay five nights in carefully selected trekking lodges and two nights in a comfortable hotel in Pokhara, providing you with rest and relaxation after long trekking days.

At Ghorepani, enjoy rooms with attached bathrooms for added privacy and comfort.

Twin-sharing rooms with cozy bedding and warm hospitality are provided at Tadapani, Bayeli Kharka, Khopra Danda, and Swanta.

Please note that two nights of accommodation in Kathmandu before and after the trek are required but not included in the package.

Hot showers, electricity for device charging, and Wi-Fi are available at lodges for an additional charge.

Meals

The package includes six breakfasts, six lunches, and five dinners on a full-board basis during the trek, featuring one main course per meal.

You’ll enjoy a variety of dishes including local, Asian, and Western cuisine such as traditional Dhal Bhat, soups, pasta, momos, sandwiches, and burgers.

We recommend consuming fresh vegetables and fluids such as garlic soup, green tea, and ginger tea to maintain energy levels and help with acclimatization.

For optimal health during trekking, please avoid meat, dairy products, alcohol, and caffeinated beverages.

Meals in Pokhara and Kathmandu are not included, giving you the freedom to explore a variety of dining options in these cities.

Luggage

Each porter carries luggage for two trekkers, with a combined weight limit of 18 kg (9 kg per person). We recommend packing together with a fellow trekker in a duffle bag with a capacity of over 60 liters.

You are expected to carry a small daypack for personal items such as water bottles, snacks, important documents, and a camera.

Excess luggage can be stored free of charge at our office during the trek.

Facilities and Essentials

Water

You can purchase bottled water from shops along the trekking route. However, to help protect the environment, we strongly encourage you to bring a reusable water bottle and buy boiled or filtered water from lodges.

For added safety, we recommend using water purification tablets before drinking. We can provide these tablets upon request. Please avoid drinking untreated water from rivers, taps, or wells to prevent illness.

Communication

You can buy a local SIM card in Kathmandu for mobile connectivity. Please note that mobile signals may be weak or unavailable at higher altitudes during the trek.

Your guide will maintain regular communication with our office, providing updates at least once a day via mobile phone.

Our team remains on standby at all times to respond quickly to any emergencies that may arise.

Travel Essentials

Visa

You need a visa to enter Nepal. On-arrival visas are available at Tribhuvan International Airport and designated border points. A 30-day visa costs USD 50.

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your arrival date and that you have a passport-size photo. For the latest visa requirements and updates, please visit www.immigration.gov.np.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory for all trekkers and must cover medical treatment and helicopter rescue up to 3,600 meters altitude.

Please confirm the coverage details with your provider in advance to avoid any complications during your trek.

Currency Exchange

The local currency in Nepal is the Nepali Rupee (NPR). The exchange rate is approximately 1 USD = 133 NPR.

You can exchange major foreign currencies at authorized money exchanges or banks in Kathmandu. ATMs are widely available, especially in tourist areas like Thamel, but they may have restrictions and fees.

Carry cash in clean, undamaged bills, as banks may refuse torn or worn notes. Regarding Indian Rupees (INR), only INR 100 bills are legally accepted in Nepal.

Extra Expenses

You will need to cover your own costs for:

• Meals and accommodation in Kathmandu
  
• Lunch and dinner in Pokhara
  
• Extra meal courses during the trek
  
• Travel insurance
  
• Visa fees
  
• Beverages (hot drinks like tea/coffee, cold drinks, alcoholic drinks)
  
• Snacks
  
• Tips for guides and porters
  
• Souvenirs and personal shopping