Khayer Lake and Khopra Ridge Trekking - 11 days

Khayer Lake and Khopra Ridge Trekking - 15 days
Trip Information
  • Duration11 Days
  • DestinationNepal
  • Difficulty Level Easy to Moderate
  • Max Altitude3865 m/ 12680 ft.
  • ActivityTrekking
  • Group Size+1
  • Trip StartKathmandu
  • Trip EndPokhara
  • Best TimeMarch-May and September-November
Highlights

"Trek into the wilderness of the Annapurna region with a visit to Khair Lake and Khopra Ridge"

  • Explore the Annapurna region with a visit to Khayer Lake and Khopra Ridge
  • Get a close-up panoramic view of the highest mountains like Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.
  • Experience the hospitality of culturally rich Gurung Villages like Ghorepani and Ghandruk.
  • View a magnificent sunrise or sunset from the Ghorepani viewpoint.

Introduction: Khayer Lake and Khopra Ridge Trekking

Khayer Lake and Khopra Ridge trekking in Nepal is a marvelous trek in the rugged, beaten trail of the Annapurna region. The Khopra Ridge Trek, also known as Khopra Dadha Trek, takes trekkers to scenic landscapes and high mountain views with spectacular sunrises or sunsets. 

Similarly, the Khayer Lake is between Annapurna Base Camp and Jomsom region trekking. The Khopra Dadha trek is also known as the Mulde Hill trek, which is close to theAnnapurna Base Camp (ABC) and an alternative to the Ghorepani Trek. Visitors who embark on the trek witness two of the world’s 14 highest mountains, Mt Dhaulagiri (7th highest) and Mt Annapurna (10th highest). 

Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake trek also provide breathtaking views of Annapurna Massif, Machhapuchre, Mt Nilgiri, Mt Huichuli, and Mt Ganga Purna. Travelers can traverse through alpine forests filled with rhododendrons in spring, passing various rivers and waterfalls. As diverse communities like Gurung and Magar inhabit the Khopra region, individuals can immerse themselves in the cultural and traditional practices of the locals to get insights into the region's daily life.

Khopra and Khayer Lake are some of Nepal's best and easiest treks. The Himalayan view point Poon Hill offers breathtaking views of Mulde Peak and Khopra. Poon Hill is also the best location for sunrise and sunset, which offers the golden sights of Tukuche Peak and Nilgiri and Annapurna South face. The same view is closer to Khopra Ridge.

How does the Khopra Ridge with Khayer Lake Start and End?

The Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake start from the bustling city of Kathmandu. Exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Khopra Ridge Itinerary adds an extra touch to Nepal's cultural and traditional history. After exploring the capital city, the journey continues to the lake city of Pokhara. Explore the vibrant city, including night walks on the shores of Phewa Lake. Afterward, the journey continues to Tikhedunga via Nayapul, which is the gateway to Poon Hill. Explore the green pastures, historical villages, and waterfalls. 

The Khayer Lake trek commences towards Ghorepani after Nayapul. Ghorepani is a fascinating Gurung village regarded as the finest viewpoint for sunrise and sunset. The place also provides terrific mountain views. Later continue the hike to poon hill, which is one of the major highlights in the Khopra Ridge trekking route.

Poon hill is a hill station in Nepal that provides excellent views of the Annapurna Massif range and Dhaulagiri Mountain range. The Annapurna range mountain peaks like Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, and Annapurna IV can be seen from Poon Hill.

After the mesmerizing view from the hilltop, the trek moves towards Sauta village, mainly inhabited by the Magar community. After Sauta, the trek proceeds toward Chistibang, seeing mesmerizing mountain flowers and vegetation. Chistibang, also known as Dhankharka, has community-based teahouses and lodges suitable for breaks.

As the journey proceeds, the major highlight of the Khopra Dadha Khayer Lake trek, Khair or Khopra Ridge, can be seen. The route is newly introduced, and a minimum number of trekkers are embarking on the trail. However, the trek has gained much attention due to its short time interval and mesmerizing view.

As the exploration of Khopra Ridge is completed, the trek moves towards a side trip to Khopra Lake. Glaciers, water sources, and mountains surround the holy lake. Trekkers can visit the small temple known as Barahai Temple, located in the lake.

After that, march towards Dobato and Ghandruk. Visit the Gurung museum or a nearby marketplace in Ghandruk. After Ghandruk, trekkers drive back towards Pokhara, which marks the end of Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake Trekking with Holiday Tours Nepal.

What is the best time/season for the Khopra Dadha Khayer Lake trek?

The Khopra Khayer Lake trek can be done in almost all seasons in Nepal. However, the best trekking season for the Khopra Dadha trek is spring and autumn. Spring lasts from March to May. The skies are clear with a vibrant atmosphere. The maximum temperature is 18 to 24 degrees Celsius, while the minimum can be 0 to 5 degrees. The forests come alive as the rhododendron becomes full bloom.

Meanwhile, autumn is another great season for the Khopra Khayer Lake trek. The maximum temperature of the region in autumn is 10 degrees Celsius to 20 degrees Celsius, while the minimum can be 0 to -4 degrees Celsius. The campsites can be chilly at night, but the teahouses provide a cozy atmosphere. 

The Khopra Lake Khayer Ridge itinerary can also be completed in monsoon and winter. However, embarking on the trail during these seasons is relatively difficult and not recommended. The trails become slippery with extreme temperatures covered with snow. The trekking provides a good adventure and adrenaline-filled experience to hardcore trekkers who want to push the limits.

Trekking in the Khopra region requires more logistic and mental preparation. Holiday Planner Nepal can arrange a well-managed winter trek to Khopra Ridge; however, prior information regarding the time of travel should be provided.

Accommodation options at Khayer Lake and Khopra Ridge

Several Khopra Khayer Lake trekking accommodation options provide essential, comfortable amenities. The place can be a teahouse, lodge, and guesthouse.

Teahouses are the most basic accommodation place in the Khopra Dada trekking route. They provide basic bed and blanket facilities with shared bathroom facilities. Electricity and Wi-Fi may cost extra. The teahouse mostly has two single beds with bed covers and blankets.

Lodge and Guesthouse are other Khopra Khayer Lake Trekking accommodation options. They provide suitable facilities and a cozy environment. A heating system can be installed with attached bathroom facilities. This accommodation can only be found in some areas during the trek.

Food options at Khayer Lake and Khopra Ridge trek

There are various food options per the teahouse or accommodation place. However, the food is classified according to the time of consumption.

  • Breakfast: Eggs, Bread and Chapatti, Pancakes, Porridge, Vegetable soup.
  • Lunch: There are several options for Lunch. The variety can range from authentic Nepali cuisine to Indian, Chinese, and continental. The options primarily include Dal Bhat (Nepal’s number one dish). Dal Bhat is a cuisine with Rice, Lentil soup, and vegetables. Other options include Noodles, Spaghetti, Pizza, Pasta, Mo: Mo (dumplings), and fries.
  • Dinner: The dinner option is similar to Lunch. Dal Bhat is the primary option for Nepalese for dinner. However, individuals can order anything of personal choice on the menu.

Electricity and communication facilities at Khayer Lake trek

Trekkers can find electricity at all the teahouses or accommodation places. Charging can be done in the teahouse lobby if lucky ports for charging can be found in the room itself. However, trekkers need to pay an extra amount for the charge. Similarly, Holiday Tours Nepal advises all our fellow trekkers to carry solar chargers and extra batteries for charging their electronic devices if they are on a budget trek to Khopra Ridge.

Likewise, the company provides free SIM cards to our guests. This enables accessible communication throughout the route. However, there can be a problem in specific locations due to altitude or technical issues.

Permits and documents required for Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake trek

As Khopra lies under the Annapurna region, some special permits are required for trekking. The permits for Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake trekking are 

Is travel insurance required for Khopra Ridge trekking?

Yes, travel insurance is required for Khopra Ridge trekking. However, it is not mandatory. Having travel insurance can safeguard against various unforeseen circumstances, such as:

  1. Having travel insurance can cover trip cancellation or withdrawal of a trip midway.
  2. Medical expenses in case of injury and health problems.
  3. Theft is not standard. However, loss of baggage and personal belongings can be covered. 

Outline itinerary for Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake trek

Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu 1,350 m / 4,430 ft, and transfer to hotel.

Day 02: Drive to Pokhara 860 m/2,700 ft. on Nepal mid-west highway - 06 hrs.

Day 03: Drive to Nayapul 1,070 m/3,510 ft. and trek to Tikhedhunga 1,540 m/5,052 ft -04 hrs.

Day 04: Trek to Ghorepani 2,860 m/9,383 ft. - 05 hrs.

Day 05: Morning Hike to Poon Hill 3,210 m/10,532 ft and trek to Swanta village 2,270 m/7,447 ft - 05 hrs.

Day 06: Trek to Chistibung 3,000 m/9,843 ft -05 hrs.

Day 07: Trek to Khair or Kopra Ridge 3,660 m/12,008 ft - 03 hrs.

Day 08: At Kopra Ridge for an optional excursion to holy Khair Lake.

Day 09: Trek to Dobato 3,400 m/11,154 ft - 05 hrs.

Day 10: Trek to Ghandruk 1,940 m/6,365 ft- 05 hrs.

Day 11: Drive to Pokhara- 3 hrs.

Itinerary
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Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from Holiday Tours Nepal will be at the arrival section to pick you up. After the meeting, the representative will transfer you to the hotel in a private vehicle.

As you arrive in the tourist hub of Kathmandu (Thamel), we will help you with the check-in. Later in the afternoon, you will meet with the company head for a detailed briefing about the trip. After that, we will meet in the evening for a welcome dinner in an authentic Nepalese restaurant. After dinner, return to the hotel and stay overnight in Kathmandu.

  • Max. Altitude:1,350 m / 4,430 ft

Start the day with a fulfilling breakfast. Prepare to leave for Pokhara in a shared or private vehicle. You will pass various waterfalls and walk across multiple rivers on the way. The transition from urban to rural areas can be felt as you can witness traditional villages. Upon reaching Pokhara, our hotel representative from Pokhara will pick you up and transfer you to the Pokhara hotel. After checking, you will rest and get out to explore Pokhara later in the evening. A night walk stroll in Pokhara Lakeside with dinner at the place of interest. Stay overnight in Pokhara.

  • Max. Altitude:860 m/2,700 ft.

As you wake up, prepare to have a delicious breakfast in Pokhara. After breakfast, you will qualify to drive towards Nayapul. Upon reaching Nayapul, start your trek towards Tikhedunga. This marks the beginning of the hike. Along the route, you will walk along the rugged, off-beaten trail while passing through various teahouses with views of surrounding mountains. After reaching Tikhedhunga, settle in an accommodation place and rest. Dinner is served in the area, and after dinner, stay overnight in Tikhedunga.

  • Max. Altitude:1,540 m/5,052 ft

Start the day with a fulfilling breakfast. After breakfast, prepare to leave Tikhedunga and trek towards Ghorepani. This section is often referred to as the Poon Hill Trek. The trekking route is relatively easy with low elevation. However, some steep climbs are followed by dense forests and picturesque villages.

After reaching Ghorepani, witness the views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Depending on the time of arrival, you can also see the sunset in the evening or sunrise in the morning. As the exploration of Ghorepani is complete, settle in an accommodation place and rest. After that, have dinner while tasting the local cuisine of the Annapurna region. Stay overnight in Ghorepani.

  • Max. Altitude:2,860 m/9,383 ft.

Wake up early and get a packed breakfast (optional). Prepare to hike the infamous poon hill for an astonishing sunrise view. The poon hill trek distance from Ghorepani is one hour for average walkers. A magnificent view welcomes you as you reach the top, walking through the stepping stones and paved path. Spectacular golden mountains and traditional Gurung and Magar villages with beautiful sunrises are what await you.

After spending some time in poon hill, we return to Ghorepani and have breakfast. After having breakfast, we will move towards Sauta village. Be sure to re-check your belongings before moving towards Sauta village. The trekking time from Ghorepani to Sauta takes about five hours. You will pass Chitre Village while walking downhill.

Upon reaching Sauta village, witness the rhododendron and oak forests with views of Annapurna South. Afterward, settle in a place of accommodation and have dinner. Stay overnight in Sauta Village.

  • Max. Altitude:3,210 m/10,532 ft

Wake up early in the morning to a delicious dinner. Today's journey lasts from Sauta to Chistibung. You will walk past farmlands, mainly rice and mustard. You will also pass through some scattered villages. The walk continues with a slow climb to reach Chistibung. After reaching Chistibung, settle down in a place of accommodation and have dinner. Stay overnight at Chistibung.

  • Max. Altitude:3,000 m/9,843 ft

The morning begins with breakfast. After breakfast, you will trek toward Khopra Ridge, the trip's main highlight. The trekking route will start with a steep climb for a few hours. As the journey continues, there is a chance of witnessing Himalayan Thar and Himalayan Monal on the route.

As you reach the Khopra ridge, which is situated in the north of poon hill, you can see Annapurna South, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri. Upon reaching the top of the Khopra ridge, settle down in an accommodation and have dinner. Savor the chilly atmosphere and stay overnight in Khopra Ridge.

  • Max. Altitude:3,660 m/12,008 ft

After Khopra Ridge, we move on an optional excursion to witness the holy lake of Khair Lake. This is marked as an acclimatization day or a day for a tour around the Khopra region. You can have breakfast at the teahouse located here. After breakfast, enjoy the views of Khopra Dadha and ascend to Khayer Lake.

The lake also holds a holy temple. Explore the symbols and bells around the temple while Annapurna South lies above the lake. After you explore the lake, trek down to Khopra Ridge. The descent can take about 3-3.5 hours while enjoying the sunset. After reaching Khopra Ridge, settle in a place of accommodation and have dinner at the teahouse. After dinner, stay overnight at Khopra Ridge.

  • Max. Altitude:3,660 m/12,008 ft

As you explore the Khopra Khaire Lake region, start descending towards Dobato from Khopra Ridge. Get past grazing pasture fields and walk into dense rhododendron forests. You can see the majestic views of Annapurna South and Mt. Machapuchare.

Upon reaching Dobato, settle in a place of accommodation. Get a taste of delicious Nepalese cuisine during dinner. Stay overnight in Dobato.

  • Max. Altitude:3,400 m/11,154 ft

Start the day with a filling breakfast. After breakfast, walk down to Ghandruk from Dobato. Pass along a significant village named Tadapani, with views of the Annapurna range. As you move through Tadapani, continue to descend towards Ghandruk.

Ghandruk is a beautiful village inhabited by the Gurung community. It is famous for its hospitality and rich cultural programs. The town provides a unique experience to visitors while reflecting the culture and traditions of the Gurung people. Visitors can savor local cuisines and participate in cultural and musical ceremonies upon reaching Ghandruk, immersing themselves in the hospitality to get insights into the way of life of the Gurung community of Nepal. Stay overnight in Ghandruk.

  • Max. Altitude:1,940 m/6,365 ft

This is the final day of the Khopra Ridge Khaire Lake Itinerary. Today, you will leave Ghandruk after breakfast and drive towards Pokhara. As you leave Ghandruk, walk downhill for about an hour to reach the base of the hill. As you get to the ground, a private or shared vehicle will be waiting for you to take you on a scenic drive toward Pokhara. As you reach Pokhara and settle in, this will mark the end of the journey.

    Cost Details
    What's Included
    • All airport Pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle for both international and domestic flights.
    • 01 nights twin/double sharing deluxe accommodation on BB in Kathmandu.
    • Welcome dinner at an authentic restaurant.
    • 01-night twin/double sharing deluxe accommodation on BB in Pokhara.
    • Kathmandu to Pokhara to Kathmandu by deluxe tourist bus (if you want a two-way flight or a private vehicle, both are available at an additional cost).
    • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TTIMS card).
    • A highly experienced, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English-speaking, well-trained government license holder guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport, and insurance.
    • 02 guests = 01 porter with their insurance, salary, food, accommodation, and equipment.
    • Twin- or double-sharing accommodations in the mountains during the trekking.
    • Three meals a day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and tea or coffee during the trek.
    • Safe drinking water (if mineral water is something you need to buy yourself).
    • All applicable government and local taxes per the itinerary.
    • Holiday Planner Nepal’s customized sleeping bag, down jackets, T-shirts, caps, duffle bags, city and trekking route maps, if necessary.
    • Oxymeter to check your pulse, oxygen saturation, and heart rate twice daily during the trek (very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS) symptoms). This helps ensure your trek is in the safest hands possible.
    What's not Included
    • Nepal visa fees.
    • International air fare from and to Kathmandu.
    • Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
    • Personal travel and health Insurance, Insurance for helicopter evacuation.
    • In case of extra night accommodation, lunch and dinner in the city due to early arrival and late departure as well as early back/return from mountain/trekking (due to any reason) than the given time period of the itinerary.
    • Your Personal expenses such as ( laundry, baggage charge, phone calls, battery recharge, bar and beverage bill, boiled or bottled water, hot and cold shower, extra porter.. etc).
    • Extra expenses due to flight delays, strikes, weather conditions, or any event out of our control.
    • Tips to the trekking crew guides and porters.
    Useful Information

    If you would prefer to alter the itinerary or just select the accommodations rather than the entire package, we also offer those services

    • Customized itineraries as per client requirement.
    • First aid box and all medicine required during the trek.
    • Guide and porter-only service.
    • Arrangement of emergency evacuation service (should have insurance for emergency evacuation and will be paid by your travel insurance company)
    • Renting the trekking gears and equipment is also avaiable if necessary.
    • Flight service (from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu).
    • Transportation servies (from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Pokhara to Kathmandu).
    • Accommodation -only facilities during the trek at mountains as per client requirement. 
    • Hotels facilities of different categories or normal affordable lodge as per client requirement.

    Equipment and Gear List

    GeneralGeneral

    • Four-season (-20 degree) sleeping bag (We provide rental sleeping bags available for an additional USD 35)
    • Puffy down jacket (We provide rental jackets for an additional USD 35)
    • Daypack (25-30 liters recommended) with rain cover

    CatUpper Body

    • Sun hat or cap (We'll provide you with a trekking cap.)
    • Warm woolen hat
    • Scarf/Neck Buff (highly recommended to get saved from wind and cold)
    • Headlamp or mobile torch light for nighttime
    • Polarized sunglasses

    TorsoTorso

    • Technical fabric base layer thermals are light for warmer months, heavy for colder months
    • Technical fabric t-shirts and sleeve sweaters or high-necks
    • Waterproof rain jacket
    • Windproof jacket for the walk as it gets windy
    • Fleece jacket or down jacket

    LowerLower Body

    • Thermals inner
    • Hiking pants at least 3
    • Comfortable pants for teahouses
    • Waterproof, windproof shell
    • Hiking shorts

    glovesHands

    • Woolen gloves for the tea house
    • Hard-shell windproof outer gloves for the walk

    feetFeet

    • Marino Wool or comfortable, warm socks
    • Hiking socks
    • Liner socks
    • Trekking/hiking boots (waterproof recommended)
    • Crampons (For passes)
    • Casual shoes or sandals that are comfortable for the time in the tea house
    • Gaiters (lightweight for rain and snow)

    undergarmentUndergarments and Inner Wears

    • Technical fabric/quick drying (can be washed during the trek)
    • Sports bras (women)
    • Sleeping clothes as per the comfortability

    FirstaidFirst Aid Kits and Medications

    Note: Our guides carry medications, oxygen cans, and first aid kits during the trip. However, personal kits and medications are recommended.) 

    • Sunscreen SPF- 50+
    • Lip balm or Vaseline
    • ointment cream
    • Cough Syrup and strepsils (recommended for Khumbu Cough)
    • Creams and medicines (for any allergies or diseases)

    Optional Other Essentials

    • Passport
    • Extra copies of passport-sized photos
    • Reusable water bottle
    • Toilet paper, small soap, and shampoo
    • Water purification tablets or UV water purifier (if you plan to treat water)
    • Water bladder for the day bag
    • Small towel for personal use
    • Pillowcase in case of allergies to new pillows
    • High-protein snacks (such as mountain bars or nuts)
    • Waterproof/dry bags for carrying essential documents, stuff, frequently used items, and money
    • Power bank or extra batteries
    • Cameras and mobile phone
    • Cards/book
    • Pee bottle/ pee funnel for women
    • Trekking poles
    • Whistle in case your voice is not loud enough to stop or start
    • Thermos for hot water during the nighttime
    • We give you a free duffel bag, trekking cap, maps, and t-shirt during your pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu. The duffel bag will be used to pack your trekking supplies.
    • For every two participants, we assign one porter. The porter will carry the duffel bag, which should weigh around 10 kg/22 lbs., throughout the walk.
    • Daypack bag for daily used stuff like cash, documents, papers, a water bottle or bladder, a camera, toiletries, sunscreen, a notebook, clothing, etc. (with a waterproof cover).
    • You can store your luggage (on-trekking items) at the hotel in Kathmandu, and we can assist and help.
    • Total luggage for the Kathmandu-Lukla flight is (15 kg/33 lbs.), including duffel (10 Kg/22 lbs.) and backpack (5 kg/11 lbs.)
    • A down jacket with a hood(cap) to be warm in altitudes above 3,000m.
    • We can provide a down jacket for USD 35. In case of loss or damage, you need to pay back the cost of USD 200 per item.
    • We can provide a sleeping bag for USD 35. In case of loss or damage, USD 200 per item must be paid.

    What to pack for nepal trekking?

    Note: Supplies and gear can be rented or purchased in Kathmandu. Once you are in Nepal, you can buy supplies and gear for hiking if you have spare time. Trekking Planner Nepal representatives will assist you in purchasing the equipment. Thamel a tourist hub, offers a wide range of trekking equipment at affordable prices. Don't wear short clothes inside the monasteries and religious places.

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