Grade:Moderate

Location: Nepal

Altitude:3900 m

Duration:10 Days

The Khopra Ridge trek is a unique trek in the land of the highest Mountains in the world, Nepal. Different from the other treks in Nepal in terms of changing sceneries, mountain views, and the most unique aspect of walking on a ridge which gives a spectacular "on top of the world" feeling. The highlight of the trek is the sunrise view from Khopra ridge which is towering at a height of 3900 meters from where one can spot not one or two, but 23 major Himalayan peaks. The trail takes you through alpine meadows, dense forests, beautiful Rhododendron abundant sections, and pristine villages based in the Annapurna range of mountains. Unlike the popular and crowd favorite Annapurna Base Camp Trek, the Khopra Ridge Trek takes you away from the crowd and presents you with two major points: Khopra Ridge, and Khayar Lake, a very rare find in a single trek. This is a moderate grade trek which demands a good fitness level due to its fair share of ascends and descends. The Khopra Ridge Trek is perfect for anyone looking for an offbeat trekking trail in Nepal along with stunning mountain views and beautiful landscapes. Stay on this page for more info - Khopra Ridge Trek, Route Map, Itinerary, Photos, Videos, and Reviews that will help you plan your trek. Head to our FAQ section for the detailed packing list specific to Nepal treks.

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive at Pokhara

Reach Pokhara today and check into your accommodation. Spend the day exploring the bustling city and various cafes and bars around. Buy any last minute necessities.

Day 2

Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul by vehicle and Trek to Ghandruk (6,654 ft); 3.5 hours

Today we will drive from Pokhara to Nayapul. From here we will trek to Ghandruk which will take about 3.5 hours. Overnight in teahouse/lodge.

Day 3

Ghandruk (6,654 ft) to Tadapani (9,020 ft); 5 hours, 8 km

Today we will trek from Ghandruk to the big hamlet of Tadapani which also connects the trail to the major trek of Annapurna Base Camp. The trek has a steep incline with almost 2500ft of heigh gain that will help you to acclimatize for future days as well. The trial enters a lovely forest. The excitement of what lies ahead of you is at an all-time high. Overnight in the teahouse.

Day 4

Tadapani (9,020 ft) to Dobato (11,826 ft); 5 hours, 7 km

Today's trek to Dobato is a steep ascent with over 2800ft of altitude gain that might be hectic. Dobato is a lovely hamlet located at a meadow ridge and if the weather is clear then there are high chances of getting glimpses of snow-capped mountains from this Hamlet.

Day 5

Dobato (11,826 ft) to Khopra ridge (12,581 ft); 7 hours, 10.8 km

Wake up early before sunrise and make your way to the Khopra viewpoint. Today you will descend and ascend through thick rhododendron forest with beautiful streams crisscrossing their way through the trail. You will eventually reach lovely alpine meadows and cross the same to reach Khopra Ridge. One side you will get to see the green valleys of Nepal Mountains and on the other end, you have the giant snow-capped mountains. The best of the lot will be Mt. Dhaulagiri, it will be the clear winner among all in terms of views, there will be nothing in between you and Dhaulagiri to block the view. Spend the night in teahouses. One of the best highlights of the Khopra ridge trek is the impressive ridge walk with panoramic views and also the fact that you get stunning views of peaks and mountain ranges from the teahouses.

Day 6

Khopra ridge (12,581 ft) to Khayar lake (15,640 ft) and back to Khopra ridge; 8 hours, 15.5 km

Today's trek is the longest. We will start early and proceed towards Khayar Lake, a holy lake that is the adobe of goddess Khair Barahi. You will get a grand and unobstructed view of Annapurna and Mt. Machapucchare. The trail has a decent ascent at the beginning followed by a steep trail before reaching the Khayar Lake. Spend some time in awe of the majestic peaks surrounding this stunning lake and retrace your steps back to Khopra ridge. Overnight in teahouse.

Day 7

Khopra ridge (12,581 ft) to Shwata (7,786 ft); 5 hours, 9.6 km

We start our day with an initial descent of over 700m and you will be passing through dense jungle with the trail cutting through rhododendron and oak trees in a zig zag fashion. Swanta is a giant hamlet on a mountain surface surrounded by never ending terrace farms. Explore the village and retire for the night. Overnight in homestay.

Day 8

Shwata (7,786 ft) to Ghorepani (9,775 ft); 4.5 hours, 9 km

The trail from Shwanta to Ghorepani is a series of ascents and descents which is certainly not monotonous. You will be crossing through dense forests with frequent clearings and you get a glimpse of Annapurna range rising high and mighty. We cross and isolated village named Chitre to eventually reach Ghorepani. Overnight in homestay.

Day 9

Ghorepani (9,775 ft) to Nayapul Trek; 3 hours, 7 km; Depart for Pokhara; 2-3 hours drive

Today we will trek through thick rhododendron forest to reach Nayapul where our vehicles will be waiting for you and we will drive down to Pokhara. Overnight in hotel.

Day 10

Depart from Pokhara

What's Included

Accommodation in guesthouse/lodge on all trek days
Permits (Upto the amount charged for Indian nationals)
Safety Equipment includes static rescue rope, seat harness, carabiners, pulleys
Experienced guide
Pokhara to Nayapul and Nayapul to Phokhra Transport

What's Not Included

Any Expense of personal nature.
Any Expense not specified in the inclusions list.
Any meals during the trek/road journey/hotel accommodation
Travel Insurance and Rescue Evacuation in case of emergency
Backpack Offloading of more than 10 kg
Gaiters, microspikes and sleeping bags (wherever necessary) are not included and thus have to rented from Pokhara by you.
Portage of personal backpack

Are you Eligible for this Adventure?

Located at an elevation of 3,900M, Khopra Ridge Trek is a moderate level trek which for its difficulty level is suitable for anyone with some prior experience of high-altitudes. The Khopra Ridge Trek is perfect for trekkers looking for an offbeat trail in Nepal.

Moderate

3900 m

50 km

BRS Level Required

BRS 4

Khopra Ridge Trek is a level 4 adventure on the Bikat Rating Scale.

This makes it mandatory for you to have high-altitude experience of preferably multiple treks marked at level 3 on the BRS. The altitude, the terrain, and the nature of the climb demand a certain level of endurance and a need for you to be aware of how your body reacts to the various features of the high-altitude environment.

If you do not know what level of BRS trek would suit you best, worry not! Fill out this Form:

we will send you a progression chart to help you comfortably get out of your comfort zone in order to level up and ultimately reach your highest potential in the big, bad world of outdoor adventure.

Packing List

This is a list of essential items for individuals doing the trek with Bikat Adventures. This list contains only those items which the participants are required to bring with them. The list excludes those items which are provided by Bikat Adventures on the trek. We have divided the items into five categories. All the items in the list are essential except for those marked as optional.

Trekking Gear

Ruck sack bag with rain cover. Qty -1
Day Pack Bag - Recommended for treks with summit day
Head Torch with spare Batteries. Qty -1
U V protection sunglasses. Qty -1 Here is how you can choose the best sunglasses for trekking.
Water Bottles: 2 bottles of 1 liter each

Footwear

Non-skid, deep treaded, high-ankle trekking shoes Qty -1
Pair of light weight Slipper/Sandals Qty -1

Clothing

Quick Dry Warm lower or Track Pants. Qty - 2
Full sleeves T-shirts/ Sweatshirts. 1 for every 2 days of trekking
Pair of thick woolen socks. 1 pair for every two days of trekking
Thermal Body warmer Upper & Lower. Qty-1
Undergarments. Qty - 1 for every day of trekking
Warm jacket closed at wrist & neck .Qty-1
Full sleeves sweater. Qty -1
Rain wear ( Jacket & Pants ) . Qty-1
Pair of waterproof, warm gloves. Qty-1
Woolen cap. Qty-1
Sun shielding Hat. Qty -1

Toiletries

Personal toiletries kit (Small Towel, Toilet paper, paper soap, Bar soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, cold cream, etc.)
Sun screen lotion small pack. Qty -1 Here is your Sun Protection 101 to stay safe in the bright sunny outdoors.
Lip Balm small pack. Qty-1

Utensils

Small size, Light weight & Leak proof lunch box. Qty-1
Plate. Qty- 1
Spoon.Qty-1
Tea/Coffee (plastic) Mug.Qty-1

Miscellaneous

Camera (Optional)
Carry your medicines in plenty in case you have any specific ailment. Consult your doctor before joining the trek.
Dry fruits, Nuts, Chocolate bars (Optional)

Frequently Asked Questions

You must have done a small trek of 2-3 days before Khopra Ridge Trek and hiked to an altitude of more than 3000 meters.

Jog/Run for 4 Kms in 35-40 mins or Walk continuously for 8 Kms (with 3-4 small breaks) on plain terrain (slight incline is better) - - You would be required to produce a screenshot from a fitness app testifying the same
Hold your breath for 25-30 seconds

If you are not meeting these benchmarks, please use the preparation schedule to improve your fitness till you achieve the above benchmarks.

Know campsite basics like how to use a sleeping bag, sleeping tet, toilet tent.
Ascending & Descending technique for mountain trails.
Basic mountain mannerisms.

The Khopra Ridge Trek is a unique trek in Nepal completely different from any other trek in the Himalayas. It involves a unique ridge walk unlike any other trek with a constant change in sceneries along with mesmerizing views of mountains from the Annapurna Range. Climbing to a height of 3900m, this trek is perfect for beginners and experienced trekkers alike who wish to trek on less crowded trails without compromising on views.

This trek can be done throughout the year but the best months to do his trek are April due to the fresh bloom of Rhododendron flowers and the second one is in November due clear views and good weather throughout. Avoid the monsoon months of July - September. This particular trek in Nepal can be done in the winter months of December - March as well but be prepared to walk in the snow and bear cold temperatures.

The base for the trek is Pokhara, which is well connected from Delhi by air and land.
By Air: There are multiple daily flights from Delhi to Kathmandu.
By Rail:You can take a train from Delhi to Raxaul Junction in Bihar on the Indo - Nepal border. From Raxaul, take a 5 km bus/taxi to the border, from where Kathmandu is a 10 hour road journey. Buses and taxis are easily available at the border.
By Road: The road distance from Delhi to Kathmandu is 1,145 km. There is a Delhi Government luxury bus service from Delhi Gate for Kathmandu that takes around 36 hours. This is the most time consuming but budget-friendly option at INR 2300 for the bus journey. From Kathmandu, you can opt to fly to Pokhara, or take one of several shared cabs that ply on the route daily. Since the trek starts from Pokhara you can take regular buses and taxis that ply from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Pokhara is also accessible from Delhi by road or rail.

Over the last few years, the mobile/ cell phone network has improved significantly in more remote areas of Nepal. The best network above Nayapul on Khopra Ridge Trek is Nepal Telecom (NTC) or NCell. It is easy to buy an NTC SIM card from Kathmandu or Pokhara. You will need to provide your passport, so don't forget to bring it along.

Kathmandu, Nepal's capital, is a vibrant, noisy city. Packed full of history, palaces and temples, it is also within touching distance of Nepal's premier attraction: the Himalaya. Kathmandu is home to places to visit like Durbar Square (with temples dating back to the 12th century), Boudhanath Stupa (a world heritage site), and Pashupatinath Temple (the country's most important Hindu temple, on the banks of the Bagmati river).
Another must-see attraction is the Royal Palace, the site of the infamous 2001 massacre of the Royal Family by the then Crown Prince, and now converted into the Narayanhiti Palace Museum.

The minimum age limit is 13 years. However, minors aged between 13 to 17 should be accompanied by their parents or guardians. If you are above the age of 60, kindly carry a medical certificate from your doctor that deem you fit for adventure activities like trekking.

You will be provided shared accommodation in a hostel in Pokhara. On the trail, you will be provided twin or triple sharing accommodation in lodges/tea houses/guest houses.

Since this is not a camping trek, tents and sleeping bags are not required. However, if it is too cold then, sleeping bags do come in handy. Rental options are available in Pokhara.

There are adequate, hygienic facilities throughout the trail and at all accommodations.

Gaiters and microspikes will not be provided by us. If needed, then you can rent the same from Pokhara. However, these are not needed for Nepal treks.

Meals are not included on this trek. The lodges / guest houses on this trek have ample eating options.

You can rent following items from Pokhara - Trekking Pole, Trekking Shoes, Fleece Jacket, Rucksack, gaiters, microspikes, sleeping bags.

Mid-September to October – partially Clear, Day – 10 deg. To 15 deg. Centigrade / Night – 5 deg. To -3 Deg.
November to January – generally clear skies, moderate chances of fresh snowfalls, Day – 8 to 10 deg. / Night – 3 Deg. To -5 Deg.
February to April – Chances of heavy snowfall in the month of February to March and the temperature will be below freezing most of the time during the evenings and night, however, during the day time the temperature will be pleasant.

There may be fresh snowfall in the region depending on the weather. There will be permanent snow accumulation at higher altitudes, though not necessarily on the trail itself.

You can offload your backpack (up to 10 kgs) on this trek. For availing this facility, you need to book this add-on while booking your trek.

A team of participants will be led by a course certified trek leader and an experienced local guide. All participants are requested to abide by the directions of the leader. There will also be a team of kitchen staff and porters on the trek. We maintain a 1:8 ratio of trek leader and participants. All our trek leaders and staff have certified training in first-aid and rescue operation.

It is not mandatory but it is more convenient with the pole. If you don’t want to buy one, you can rent it from us on minimal daily basis charges. You can request the renting link from us.

You can buy your trekking necessities from Kathmandu. However we recommend that you do not leave anything essential for the last minute purchase as you might not find sufficient time for shopping.

Yes, it is absolutely safe for a solo woman to travel in fix departures. Women on the trek will be sharing a room with each other. In case you are the only woman on the trek, you will be given a separate room depending on availability.

Yes, e-certificates will be given at the end of each trek provided that you completed it. It will bear your name, the trek, and the maximum altitude you achieved on the trek.

You will have to arrive at Pokhara on your own.

We will reach Pokhara by late evening, so plan your further travel or stay accordingly.

Please do carry either your passport or Voter ID card, along with a few passport size photographs.

Why Bikat?

Small Group Size

Our batch sizes are capped at 15 for smaller treks with the trek leader and trekker ratio of 1:8. This ratio, in our years of experience, has proven to deliver the best trekking experience for individuals as well as groups. Capping the size of the group ensures individual attention to each trekker so that no signs of distress or need during the trek go unnoticed. It also helps to form a more cohesive cohort with better group energy which helps define the rhythm and pace of days on the trek.

As you go higher up on the BRS scale, since the stakes are higher, expeditions have an even smaller group size with the ratio of expedition leader to climber set at 1:2.

Qualified Trek Leaders

We follow a rigorous regime of hiring and training our experts in the field. Each trek leader is a certified mountaineer with years of experience in the field. In addition to their qualification, they also go through practical and situational training to tackle any and all kinds of sudden conditions that may present themselves on the ground. Being unpredictable is the core nature of the mountains but being ready for any circumstance as best as possible is a controllable asset that we try to nurture.

Our field experts are also trained in basic medicine and first-aid response.

Watch: Forerunners - The Making of A Trek Leader At Bikat Adventures

Guided Progression

Since Bikat Adventures is a learning-based organization, we help you climb up the ladder of difficulty within the sphere of outdoor adventure systematically. Our on-ground training modules are designed to handhold you through the upskilling process so that you are ready to take on bigger challenges.

Equipment Quality and Check

All the gear used on our treks and expeditions is tried and tested, maintained for good quality, and is overall top-notch in quality and condition. We are continually looking to obtain the best of everything there is in the market so as to ensure optimum safety.

Support Systems

Along with the staff you see on-ground, we have a team of superheroes working in the background to give you the best experience possible. Our background team also comprises local staff from each area who know the region best. Having local support helps with studying the area, pre-planning, execution, and in receiving timely support in case of emergencies in these remote locations.

Communication

Our on-field staff is in constant contact with our teams based in primary locations so as to eliminate any avoidable delay in reaching additional help and support when required. We try to use the best tools for communication available, including satellite phones, in regions where they are not restricted.

Reviews

Cancellation Policy

Cash refund

Cancellations up to 30 days prior to departure date

Cancellations between 30 days to 15 days prior to departure date

Cancellations within 15 days prior to departure date

Voucher refund

Cancellations up to 5 days prior to departure date

Cancellations within 5 days prior to departure date

Please Note:

Cash refund is applicable only in case of bookings made without using any promotional offer code or vouchers
This is only a brief of cancellation terms. For finer details please refer Detailed Cancellation Policy.

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