The Khopra Ridge Trek is an easy route, away from busier trails, making it ideal for families and anyone seeking a peaceful Himalayan experience. The journey begins in Kathmandu, followed by a flight to Pokhara and then a drive to Kimche, from where the trek starts in the Annapurna region. Along the way, the trail passes through Gurung and Magar villages, terraced farmlands, and vibrant rhododendron and oak forests, reflecting the authentic mountain lifestyle and local traditions.
As the trail climbs, expansive views of the Himalayan giants unfold. From the ridges and viewpoints along the route, Annapurna South (7,219 m), Dhaulagiri I (8,167 m), Machhapuchhre (Fishtail, 6,993 m), Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Gangapurna (7,455 m), and Lamjung Himal (6,983 m) come into view. Scenic spots such as Muldai, Khopra Danda, and Mohare Danda offer unforgettable sunrise and sunset panoramas across these towering mountains. Walking along the natural “balcony” of Annapurna South and Dhaulagiri, high ridges provide sweeping vistas and a true sense of Himalayan grandeur.
Along the route, the trail passes near Khayer, a holy lake visited by many pilgrims once a year, though it is not the main destination. The objective is to reach a maximum altitude of around 4,000 m before Khayer, ensuring a rewarding high-altitude experience. The route continues through tranquil alpine landscapes, providing a strong sense of remoteness. With its combination of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and quiet trails, the Khopra Ridge Trek delivers a memorable, family-friendly Himalayan adventure.
Arrive Kathmandu (1350m). Transfer to the hotel
Your memorable holiday begins in Kathmandu. After arrival, you will have time to freshen up before meeting your guide for an afternoon briefing. This is the perfect moment to organize your trekking gear and prepare your bags for the journey ahead.
Accommodation: Hotel. Meals included: morning
Transport : 20 M drive hotel
Flight to Pokhara (850 m) - Drive to Kimche (1740 m) - Trek to Ghandruk (2,000 m)
After your picturesque flight to Pokhara, you arrive at Pokhara International Airport, where a private car will take you to Kimche. After Birethanti, the road becomes quite rough. We take a short break, then begin our trek to Ghandruk . The trail climbs gently on stone-paved steps until we reach Ghandurk. A traditional Gurung village, where you can visit the Gurung Cultural Museum and a Buddhist monastery
Gandruk - Tadapani (2690 m)
Our journey continues toward Tadapani, a name that means ‘far water’ in Nepali. We climb again to reach the Komrong Danda pass, then follow a scenic balcony trail through the traditional villages of Melanje and Chiule at about 2,050 meters. From here, the path becomes steeper and leads us into a forest of tall rhododendron trees, which bloom beautifully from March onward. Tadapani sits high on a ridge, offering dramatic views of the deep valley stretching toward the Annapurna Sanctuary. Above it all, Annapurna III (7,555 m) and Gangapurna (7,454 m) rise proudly on the horizon
Tadapani- Dobato(3450 m)
After breakfast, we leave the well-trodden trail to Ghorepani behind and take a lesser-known path, used mostly by locals. The trail ascends gently through a dense forest of rhododendrons, creating a tunnel of greenery. As we climb higher, the forest gives way to open pastures where water buffalo graze, short grass here is highly valued by the nearby villages. As we break above the tree line, beautiful views of the Annapurna range unfold before us. We end the day in the quiet hamlet of Dobato, where we spend the night.
Dobato - Muldai viewpoint (3630) - Dobato - Chistibung (3000 m)
We set out before dawn to catch the sunrise, moving quietly through a shadowy rhododendron forest. As we reach the summit, the majestic Dhaulagiri appears in the morning light, joined by stunning views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the iconic Machapuchare. The Muldai viewpoint rivals the famous Poon Hill but without the crowds. After soaking in the panorama, we descend to the lodge. Following breakfast, the trail leads us toward Chistibung along a scenic ridgeline. We cross small passes before making a long descent through more rhododendron forest to the valley floor, then continue with a steady climb - still surrounded by the vibrant colors and towering trunks of the rhododendrons.
NB: For the Muldai view point, up/down1 hour: and 4 to 5 hours to reach Chistibung.
Chistibung - Khopra Danda (3,660?m) - Hike to 4,000?m
The day begins with a pleasant ascent through a peaceful rhododendron forest. The trail follows the path leading to Khayar Lake, a sacred site visited by thousands of pilgrims in August. The final stretch before reaching Khopra Community Lodge is steeper but rewarded with breathtaking views: Annapurna South rises nearby, while Fang, Nilgiri, and the majestic Dhaulagiri range tower over the deep Kali Gandaki valley.
After lunch, there is the option for a hike to Khayar Lake (4,025?m), an important pilgrimage site. The goal of the day is to reach a viewpoint at around 4,000?m, offering exceptional panoramas of the surrounding peaks. Afterwards, return to the lodge to enjoy the calm and serenity of the high mountains.
Accommodation: lodge. Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Practical information:
Ascent to Khopra Ridge: 2-3 hours, +650?m
Optional hike to 4,000?m: about 3 hours round trip
Khopra - Swanta (2200 m)
Today is a long descent all the way to Swanta. We retrace our steps to Chistibung, following a pleasant and easy-to-follow path. Eventually, we arrive at the picturesque hamlet of Swanta, set among terraced rice fields, providing a peaceful end to the day’s walk. This area is rich in wildlife, so keep your eyes open - you might spot the Himalayan tahr, a sure-footed mountain goat, or the colourful Danphe pheasant, Nepal’s national bird.
Swanta - Mohare viewpoint Dada (3320 m)
After a warm breakfast, we begin a gentle descent to a small river, pausing to see a traditional watermill, an important source of power for the local villages. We cross a well-used path to Ghorepani and then turn south onto a quieter trail. Passing through a beautiful tropical forest, we reach NakakoBisaune Pass at 2,670 metres, and continue to the small hamlet of Phulbari at 2,925 metres, where we stop for lunch in a peaceful mountain setting. In the afternoon, we make a final climb to the high ridge connecting Poon Hill with Mohare Danda. The views are spectacular, with the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna massifs stretching out before us. Following the ridge, with the majestic Dhaulagiri always in sight, we arrive at the Mohare Danda Community Lodge
Mohare viewpoint -Pokhara
After enjoying the sunrise, the trek continues along beautiful ridges with rhododendron and tropical forests, before descending steeply to the village of Ulleri via long stone steps. After lunch in Ulleri, you will take jeeps to Pokhara.
Pokhara - Kathmandu
After breakfast, you will drive back to Kathmandu. The scenic journey along the Prithvi Highway takes approximately six to seven hours.
Kathmandu - Souvenirs day | Sightseeing Day.
If you choose sightseeing, this full-day cultural tour offers a well-rounded experience of Kathmandu’s history, spirituality, and art, guided by a certified expert who will enrich your understanding of the city’s unique heritage.
Suggested itinerary (maximum three sites per day):
- SwayambunathThe price includes a certified cultural guide, a reserved vehicle, and a professional driver for the day.
Pricing per person:
2 - 3 People: €70Final Departure / Back to Native Land
According to your flight schedule, we will drive you to the airport for your onward journey.