KHOPRA DANDA TREK 9 DAYS
KHOPRA DANDA TREK 9 DAYS
9 Days Short Khopra Danda Trek is One of the rarer trails of the Annapurna region with equally magnificent views of the high Himalayas peaks. The Khopra Ridge Khayer lake trek is one of the lesser-crowded treks through the Annapurna but which still Splendid views of the giants: Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m) (Seventh highest peak in the world), mt. Nilgiri (7,061m), Bhara Shikhar (7,647m), Annapurna I (8091m), Mt. Fishtail (6,997m), and other Himalayan peaks. This trek explores the Khayar Lake, considered sacred by Hindus religion, high pastures, and a temporary herder’s settlement winds its way through colorful rhododendron forests and through Tibetan-Tamang, Gurung and Magar village.
Khopra Danda Trek is reached by a steady climb through alpine meadows and pastures and provides an excellent viewpoint overlooking the Kali Gandaki River very far below in the world’s deepest gorge. From Khopra Ridge, the Himalayans are a panorama of shimmering snow and ice. Just only long walking day (and which can be, and with a panorama on the ridge to rival any viewpoint in the Himalayas, Khopra ridge trek is a great way to experience the beauty of the high Himalaya landscape and Annapurna mountains ranges in a more tranquil and solitude manner. If you're feeling up for it, option for the day hike to Khayer Lake: Hindus believe that dipping into the water here will help you achieve Nirvana. You'll also bookend your trek in Nepal's Kathmandu, and the lakeside city of Pokhara, home to the stunning Phewa Lake.
This standard Khopra Danda With Khayer Lake Trek is a 9 -day program. However, depending upon your time availability we can extend it to more days and even curtail it to 8-16 days if you are scarce of time. Please contact us if you need a custom itinerary if this standard program does not fit your vacation.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (8,50m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Our journey begins with a 6-7 hour drive toward the Pokhara Valley and its beautiful Phewa Tal (lake) and then checking in to your hotel close to Phewa Tal. There is plenty to see and do along Lakeside with its many shops, bars and restaurants to choose from.
Day 2 : Drive from Pokhara to Ghandruk (1940 M) 6,365 ft and Trek To Tadapani. (2,300m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we drive from Pokhara to Ghandruk Village and after stopping for a lunch break begin our trek to Tadapani. We continue on a trail through oak and rhododendron forests and on the way have some stunning views of Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, and Lamjung Himal.
Day 3 : Trek To Bayeli Kharka (3450 m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
You will need to get up early to enjoy the magnificent sunrise in the perpetually changing morning light. We then head out on the trail through a rhododendron forest before coming to Bayeli Kharka. You will also have some excellent views of the Annapurna Ranges along this section of the trail. From Bayeli you have a view of Mt. Dhaulagiri (the world’s 7th highest peak).
Day 4 : Trek To Khopra Danda / Ridge (3,660 m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
The first leg of our trek takes us downhill to Chhsitibang Village and then to Khopra ridge. On the trail we will likely see pheasant (Nepal’s national bird), yaks grazing in alpine meadows and Himalayan Tahr. From the ridge you will have awesome views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, South, Tukuche Peak, Dhampus Peak, Mt. Nilgiri, and other massive snow covered mountains.
Day 5 : Day Hike To Khayar Lake - Khopra Danda. Duration: 7-8 hours.
Today we follow the trail to Khayer Lake (4,600m/15,092ft). The crystal clear lake views are particularly attractive this high up in the mountains. We will then return to Khopra Ridge for the night.
Day 6 : Trek from Khopra Danda to Swanta (2270m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today will be easy-going as we trek to Swanta, famous for having its own cheese factory that you can visit and sample some of its cheeses – including yak cheeses. We will stay here tonight.
Day 7 : Trek from Swanta To Ghorepani (2,860m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we head out on the trail to Ghorepani, renowned for its mountain views – especially during the changing light at sunrise and sunset. Initially we trek to Chitre Village and then take the larger trail to Ghorepani from where we can view Mt. Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare (Fishtail), Annapurna South, I and other glorious snow capped peaks. Prior to sunset you may choose to take the short trek up to Poon Hill, celebrated for its stunning sunset views. Tonight we will stay at a lodge at Ghorepani.
Day 8 : Hike up to Poon Hill (3,210m) & trek to Nayapul & drive to Pokhara (8,50m) Duration: 7-8 hours.
Poon Hill has a well earned reputation for having some of the most excellent sunrise views anywhere in Nepal of the nearby Himalayan Mountains. Views of the Annapurna Ranges include: Dhaulagiri (8167m), Annapurna I (8091m), Annapurna II (7937m), Annapurna III (7855m), Annapurna IV (7525m), Annapurna South (7219m), Nilgiri (6940m), Tukuche (6920m), Varaha Shikhar (7847m) & Lamjung Himal (6931m). After a frantic photo session we will return to Ghorepani for breakfast. We will then head to Nayapul and then drive to Pokhara.
Day 9 : Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu; Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we head back to Kathmandu, either by bus or private vehicle depending on the size of the group. Upon arrival at Kathmandu, you will be taken to your respective hotels situated close to the main tourist hub – Thamel.
SERVICES
Cost included In Your Package
- Kathmandu to Pokhara to Kathmandu transportation by Tourist Bus
- Pokhara- Nayapul to Ghandruk -Pokhara transportation By private car/Jeep
- Two night’s standard twin sharing Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- Best Possible Teahouse, lodge accommodation (Generally twin Sharing room)
- All Standard meals 3 meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
- Government License holder English Speaking Sherpa Expedition and Trekking’s experienced and qualified trek leader,(8 or above trekkers: 1 assistant guide)
- Strong, helpful Sherpa porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment, his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
- Coverage of Guides and Porters, Their meals, insurance, salary, lodging, transportation, flight, and other necessary equipment.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) Fee.
- Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card fee.
- Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag and walking poles (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after trip completed).
- Sherpa Expedition and Trekking T-shirt
- All government, Local taxes, and official Expenses
- Assistance in arranging rescue operation in case of complicated health condition (funded by travel insurance)
- Sherpa Expedition and Trekking’s appreciation of certificate after the successful trek
- Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) which will ensure your health during the trek.
- Assistant guide for groups of 8 or more people.
Costs Exclude
- Meals whilst you are in Kathmandu & Pokhara - lunch, and dinner.
- Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $30 USD for 15-day, $50 USD for 30 Days, and $125 USD for 90 Days visa.
- Personal travel and medical insurance.
- Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu
- International airfare.
- Your personal expenses.
- All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic, soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, extra food, cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses)
- All desserts & sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
- Hot shower and battery charging at the tea houses.
- Tips for the guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected)
- NOTE: If you return earlier from the trek due to sickness or any problem, the money you paid for the flight, hotel, mountain room, food, etc. is nonrefundable, and you will need to bear the expenses for the hotel, food, etc. in Kathmandu yourself.
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
General
- All season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide if you need it, but has to be returned after the trek)
- Duffle bag ( Sherpa Expedition & Trekking provide duffle bag during the trek but has to be returned after the trek)
- A wind and waterproof thin layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above 3,000m)
- Daypack
Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear
- A pair of half gloves
- A warmer hat that covers the ears
- Sunglasses
- Neckwarmer
- Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
- Headlamp and an extra set of batteries
Hands
- A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
- Warmer shell gloves and liner
Upper Body
- long sleeve t-shirts
- Thermal tops
- wool jacket or pullover
- Sports bras for women and girls
- Water and windproof shell jacket
Lower Body
- Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
- windproof and waterproof trousers
- warmer trousers
- Comfortable trekking pants
- Extra casual sport pants
Footwear
- A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
- Pair of sandals
- 4-5 pairs of woolen socks
- Sock liners
- Light shoes and sneakers
- First Aid Kits and Medicines
- Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
- Blister treatment cream or similar
- Insect / anti-itch ointment
- Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
- Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for altitude sickness)
- Warps, splints, and wound coverings butterfly bandage
- Water purifying pills
(Note our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well)
Miscellaneous - but must useful on the trek
- 4 passport size photos with original passport
- Water bottle & filter
- Flight details (please make a copy and leave one pic at our office in KTM because in case you want to change your flight date)
- Bathroom kit (conform, should be included toilet paper, plastic bags, hand wipes, towel, and soap, etc.)
Extra things
- Comfortable trekking poles
- Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
- Power bank and music players
- Camera (memory card, chargers, and extra batteries)
GOOD TO KNOW
Accommodation
You will be accommodated in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu. During the trek, we will be staying at lodges/ teahouses. You may find comfort and better quality teahouses - having attached bathroom at lower levels- until you reach higher elevations, where the accommodation is more basic with bare necessities.
Meals during the trek
In Kathmandu, your hotel includes breakfast, whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek. A staple food of these regions is potatoes, oats, buckwheat, Sherpa stew and Tibetan bread. Sherpa’s’ started farming potatoes when the first seeds were introduced to the region in the early 90s. There is a limited choice of food at higher elevations and except many potato dishes. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates – an excellent source of energy needed at high altitudes.
Transportation
We use a private car for sightseeing and for the airport to hotel pick and drop off. We use public transportation or local buses during the trek.
Physical fitness
This can be a challenging trek where you often have to walk 6-7 hours a day. You don’t need past experience of hiking or trekking but if you have done any kind of trekking activities then it is always a plus! We have met people from all walks of life, shapes and sizes who have completed the trek. The only difficult part is when altitude sickness strikes and the effect that it can have on your body. Before leaving for Nepal it is good if you can prepare yourself physically by increasing your stamina and oxygen intake.
Remember – The better prepared – the more enjoyable your trek!
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FAQS
What is the Khopra Danda Trek?
The Khopra Danda Trek is a lesser-known trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It takes you to the beautiful Khopra Ridge, also known as Khopra Danda, which offers stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
How long is the Khopra Danda Trek?
The duration of the Khopra Danda Trek can vary depending on the specific itinerary and trekking agency. Typically, it takes around 6-10 days to complete the trek. This includes the trekking days and acclimatization/rest days.
What is the best time to do the Khopra Danda Trek?
The best time to do the Khopra Danda Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer pleasant weather, clear skies, and favorable trekking conditions. However, the trek can be done throughout the year, with the exception of the monsoon season (June to August) when the trail can be muddy and prone to landslides.
Do I need a permit for the Khopra Danda Trek?
Yes, you will need a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) to do the Khopra Danda Trek. These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
What is the difficulty level of the Khopra Danda Trek?
The Khopra Danda Trek is considered to be a moderately challenging trek. It involves walking for several hours each day on varied terrain, including uphill and downhill sections. A reasonable level of fitness and prior trekking experience are recommended.
What is the maximum altitude reached during the Khopra Danda Trek?
The maximum altitude reached during the Khopra Danda Trek is Khopra Ridge, which stands at an elevation of 3,660 meters (12,008 feet). However, you also have the option to extend the trek to reach Khayer Lake at an altitude of 4,600 meters (15,092 feet).
What are the accommodation and food options during the trek?
Accommodation during the Khopra Danda Trek is usually in basic teahouses or lodges along the trail. These provide simple rooms with shared facilities. As for food, you can expect to find a variety of Nepali and international dishes, including dal bhat (rice and lentil soup), momo (dumplings), and noodles.
Is a guide necessary for the Khopra Danda Trek?
While it is not mandatory to hire a guide for the Khopra Danda Trek, it is recommended, especially if you are not familiar with the area or have limited trekking experience. A guide can provide valuable insights, help with navigation, and ensure your safety throughout the trek.
What should I pack for the Khopra Danda Trek?
Some essential items to pack for the Khopra Danda Trek include sturdy trekking shoes, warm clothing, a good-quality backpack, a sleeping bag, a water bottle, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first aid kit.
Can I combine the Khopra Danda Trek with other treks in the region?
Yes, it is possible to combine the Khopra Danda Trek with other treks in the Annapurna region, such as the Annapurna Base Camp Trek or the Poon Hill Trek. This allows you to customize your trekking experience and explore more of the stunning landscapes and cultural diversity of the area.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
100%
Based On 9 Reviews
Felicia Milea
Haiti
November 28, 2023
Great Trek!!
Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and was above and beyond helpful and our porter just brilliant. I really admire the Sherpa Expedition and Trekking team and I would recommend this team. This is the short and best trek, also highly recommend for beginners. Thanks, guys
Valérie Dubois
Jordan
October 24, 2023
Best Local Company!
Great from start to finish, and I really enjoyed the Khopra Danda Trek. Easy to communicate with and answered all my questions in a timely manner. As a single traveler I was matched with another single traveler to share a room and the group as a whole was fantastic. We had well organized tours and our walk in the Annapurna region was well organized with friendly, helpful and knowledgeable staff. The whole trip was very sociable.
Saida Kinga
Austria
September 20, 2023
One Of the Best experience in my life
We joined the Poonhill trek. It very nice and lucky to have Sherpa Guide who was very professional and caring. All the arrangements were great. No problem at all, highly recommended!
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