🏔️ Khopra Ridge Trek
The Khopra Ridge Trek (also called Khopra Danda Trek) is a beautiful and less-crowded alternative to the popular Poon Hill route in the Annapurna Region. It offers close-up mountain views, peaceful trails, and a sacred alpine lake visit.
Gateway city: Pokhara
Trek duration: 7–10 days
Maximum altitude: 4,660m (Khayer Lake)
Difficulty: Moderate
🌄 Highlights
Stunning sunrise views from Khopra Ridge
Close views of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Annapurna South
Cultural experience in Gurung and Magar villages
Visit to sacred Khayer Lake
Fewer crowds compared to Poon Hill
📅 9-Day Khopra Ridge Trek Itinerary (From Pokhara)
Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul – Trek to Tikhedhunga
1.5 hr drive, 4–5 hrs trek
Overnight in teahouse
Day 2: Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani
6–7 hrs trek
Climb stone steps through rhododendron forest
Day 3: Early hike to Poon Hill – Trek to Swanta
Sunrise at Poon Hill
6–7 hrs total walking
Day 4: Swanta to Dhankhar
5–6 hrs trek
Traditional Magar village experience
Day 5: Dhankhar to Khopra Ridge
6–7 hrs trek
Amazing mountain views
Day 6: Explore Khopra Ridge – Optional hike to Khayer Lake (4,660m)
7–8 hrs round trip
Challenging but rewarding
Day 7: Khopra Ridge to Tadapani
6–7 hrs trek
Day 8: Tadapani to Ghandruk
4–5 hrs trek
Beautiful Gurung village
Day 9: Ghandruk to Nayapul – Drive to Pokhara
3–4 hrs walk
Drive back to Pokhara
📝 Permits Required
ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
TIMS Card
💰 Approximate Cost
Independent trek: $25–35 per day
Guided trek: $600–900 total (depending on service)
🥾 Best Time to Go
Spring (March–May) 🌸
Autumn (September–November) 🍂