Khopra Ridge Community Trek

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  • Duration

    14 days

  • Bookable From

    September - November March - May

  • Trip Style

    Privately Guided

  • Country

    Nepal

  • Physical Rating

    Average

Overview

This off-the-beaten-path adventure along Nepal's Khopra Ridge is a serene alternative to more popular treks in the region. Rest and recover at community lodges and homestays along the way as you discover the hidden treasures of the Annapurna region.

Are you dreaming of an adventure that combines breathtaking natural beauty with authentic cultural experiences? Wishes come true! Our sustainable trekking trip to Khopra Ridge and Khayar Lake is the perfect choice! This incredible journey takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to high alpine areas, where you'll witness panoramic mountain views and the vibrant colors of cascading rice fields. The hike to Khayar Lake, a hidden gem nestled in the Annapurna Sanctuary, is a true highlight - a glacial lake so beautiful, it will take your breath away.

The stunning scenery of this trip is combined with a deep immersion in the local culture. By staying at community lodges and homestays along the trail, you'll directly support local communities and gain a unique perspective on traditional life.

Highlights

  • Take a guided cultural tour around Kathmandu and see a UNESCO world heritage site
  • Visit Monkey Temple, the center of faith of Hinduism and Buddhism, and witness religious practices
  • Hike through different trails in the Annapurna region surrounded by mountains, rivers, and dense forests
  • Explore Ghandruk, a settlement of a local ethnic group, to gain an understanding of their traditional lifestyle
  • Spot endemic species such as mountain goats and the Danphe pheasant, Nepal's national bird
  • Enjoy free time in Pokhara by either exploring cultural attractions such as caves, museums, and pagodas or engaging in adventurous activities like paragliding or bungee jumping.

With moderate trails that are perfect for solo travelers or families with children, our sustainable trekking holiday is the ideal way to experience the beauty of nature while learning about authentic local culture. From the warm hospitality of the local people to the magnificent mountain views and serene natural surroundings, this adventure will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

So why wait? Book your journey today and join us on a sustainable trekking trip. Visit Khopra Ridge and Khayar Lake, a glacial holy lake that is nestled in a base in the Annapurna Sanctuary. Soak in unforgettable sceneries and cultural experiences while making a positive impact on the local communities you encounter along the way.

Seasonal Notes

The ideal season for this trek is autumn (September-November), as it offers pleasant weather conditions, moderate temperatures with clear skies, and enticing mountain vistas. In addition, trekkers would get opportunities to explore local people’s festivals and culture because these months are festive seasons when most Hindu festivals in Nepal celebrate grand festivals like Dashain and Tihar.

Spring in Nepal is another great season for trekking and climbing. Extended through the months of March to May, this period offers a diverse range of wildflowers blossoming that create a real paradise. The weather is mildly warm at lower altitudes and there are quite moderate temperatures at higher elevations over 4000 meters. However, trails tend to be much more crowded than in autumn.

Itinerary

Day 1 Kathmandu [Nepal] (arrival day)

Upon arrival at Tribhuwan International airport, our representative will cordially welcome you with great hospitality. The representative will be displaying an “Earth Yugen” placard outside the airport terminal.

You will be then escorted and transferred to the hotel in our private vehicle. Further, you will be given a brief description of the activities that will take place during the upcoming trip and a preliminary briefing on hygiene and safety.

  • Accommodation in a hotel
  • Driving time: approx. 30 minutes, depending on the traffic
  • Altitude above sea level: 1,302 m.

Day 2 Kathmandu: Cultural Tour

Today you start a guided cultural tour around Kathmandu Valley. Experience the numerous colors, sounds, and tastes of authentic Kathmandu and its surroundings. Our experienced tour guides will tell you all you need to know and answer all your curiosities regarding those sites.

You drive to Kathmandu Durbar Square, an ancient site that used to be the residence of the Nepali royal family and administrators. It incorporates an architecturally extraordinary complex of ancient palaces, temples, courtyards, and shrines dating from the 15th to the 18th century.

After that, we will visit the sanctuary of Boudhanath, one of the biggest Stupas in Nepal. Feel the spiritual energy from this UNESCO World Heritage Site and witness monks draped in maroon robes rolling the prayer wheels, burning incense, and flickering butter candles.

Our last visit of the day is to Pashupatinath temple. In this Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, appreciate the magic blend of religion, art, and culture. There are people performing spiritual rituals and funeral pyres burning at open-air cremation.

  • Accommodation in a hotel
  • Breakfast included
  • Tour duration: 8 hours approx.
  • Altitude above sea level: 1,302m.

Day 3 Start trek. Kathmandu - Pokhara - Lumle: Trek Syauli Bazaar (~3-4 hrs)

After having a decent breakfast, our representative will transfer you to the airport for a short, spectacular flight to Pokhara. Upon arrival, take a drive along the Seti River valley to the trek starting point off the road at Lumle.

The path follows through the forest in the lower foothills of the Annapurna, where there are good views of the mountains and of the Modi River far below in the valley. The trail passes through Tomijung, known as the bee village due to the old-style beehives attached to the side of the traditional houses. There are terraced fields nearby growing rice and maize as well as a variety of vegetables. Descending from Tomijung, cross the suspension bridge over the Modi River, and then take a short walk along the jeep track to Syauli Bazaar.

  • Accommodation in a lodge
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
  • Hike duration: approx. 3-4 hours
  • Altitude above sea level: 1,100 m.

Day 4 Syauli Bazaar - Ghandruk Village (~5-6 hrs)

After a hearty breakfast, you hit the trail to Ghandruk village. The trail goes up between the picturesque agricultural terrace fields. Along the way, you will witness the mesmerizing view of Machhapurchhre Himal (6,696 m). After passing through small villages, terraced rice fields, and forests, eventually, you arrive at the flag-stone-lined streets of the Ghandruk.

This is one of the major settlements of the Gurung, an ethnic group of Nepal. Exploring around this village gives you a glimpse of the local way of life in Nepal’s mountains. From here, you have an incredible panorama of the surrounding Annapurna massif.

  • Accommodation in a lodge
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
  • Hiking duration: 5-6 hours
  • Altitude above sea level: 2,012 m. Ghandruk Village

Day 5 Ghandruk - Tadapani (~3-4 hrs)

Your day starts with the superb view of the Annapurna range and adjacent snowy peaks smiling toward you. After breakfast, trek uphill through Deurali, and then through lovely forests of rhododendron. Further, you will hike to a small pass to reach the Tadapani settlement. It is situated in the midst of a beautiful forest with rhododendron, magnolia, and oaks trees with marvelous views of Mt. Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South, so soak it all in.

The trail is going to be picturesque, and you will get to see magnificent scenery. If you are trekking during the Spring, then you will witness hills covered with blossomed rhododendrons. Upon reaching Tadapani, you can take a rest and spend the evening at leisure.

  • Accommodation in a lodge
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
  • Hiking duration: 3-4 hours approx.
  • Altitude above sea level: 2,590 m. Tadapani

Day 6 Tadapani - Bayeli Kharka (~4-5 hrs)

Today you will trek to more unexplored villages of the Annapurna region, going through lovely forests of oak and rhododendron trees. Later, follow a ridge to Deurali (small pass) and enjoy a spectacular view of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), the seventh-highest mountain in the world.

The last part of the trail will take you to Bayeli Kharka, your overnight location. There, the scene is absolutely heavenly, with mountain goats and sheep grazing peacefully, as well as lofty mountains covered with glistening snow.

  • Accommodation in a lodge
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
  • Hiking duration: 4-5 hours approx.
  • Altitude above sea level: 3,150 m.

Day 7 Bayeli Kharka - Upper Chistibung (~4-5 hrs)

After breakfast, leave Bayeli Kharka behind and head towards Chistibung. You start walking on a grassy slope and pass through pastureland with a number of herder’s huts and Dzo grazing (crossbred cow and yak). Along the way, you may encounter the colorful Danphe pheasant, the national bird of Nepal.

Even, you may also have a glimpse of the Himalayan Tahr on the grassy ridge high above the trail. Hiking through such a naturally rich trail crossing through small villages, you will reach Upper Chistibung. 

  • Accommodation in a lodge
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
  • Hiking duration: 4-5 hours approx.
  • Altitude above sea level: 3,150 m.

Day 8 Upper Chistibung - Khopra Ridge - Khayer Lake (~3-4 hrs)

Begin your day with breakfast and then take a gradual ascent through alpine meadows. As you approach Khopra Ridge, you can witness the tip of Annapurna South.  This is also a hint that you are close to Khopra Ridge.

By lunchtime, you will reach Khopra Ridge. There, you will be greeted by a breathtaking sight, as Annapurna South towers above you, and Fang and Nilgiri stand out prominently to the north.

After that, you can either hike toward holy Khayer Lake or down Khopra Ridge. Both will offer beautiful views.

  • Accommodation in a lodge
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
  • Hiking duration: 3-4 hours approx.
  • Altitude above sea level: 3,660 m.

Day 9 Khopra Ridge - Swanta Village (~5-6 hrs)

Today you will be descending off the hillside, retracing the way back to Chistibung. Dense green oak trees and bamboo forests will surround you throughout the trail.

Once you reach Swanta village, the setting changes to traditional houses surrounded by paddy and potato fields. The afternoon is free for you to enjoy. A great way to spend your time is by exploring the village and visiting the Swanta primary school.

  • Accommodation in a lodge
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
  • Hiking duration: 5-6 hours approx.
  • Altitude above sea level: 2,214 m.

Day 10 Swanta Village - Ulleri (~5-6 hrs)

After having a hearty breakfast, you descend through the village fields to a small river and take a glance at the local watermill.

From here, you cross the suspension bridge and climb up to the village of Chittre, where you join the main trekking trail to Ghorepani. Afterward, you descend through a rhododendron forest on a steep trail to Ulleri.

  • Accommodation in a lodge
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
  • Hiking duration: 5-6 hours approx.
  • Altitude above sea level: 2,050 m.

Day 11 End trek. Ulleri - Nayapul (~6 hrs); Pokhara

Your hike today takes you through the hills, settlement areas, farmlands, and ethnic villages to Nayapul. Upon arrival, a private jeep transfer will take you back to Pokhara.

Check in at the hotel and spend some time at leisure exploring Pokhara. You can either visit caves and pagodas or hire a boat that takes you to Tal Barahi, a temple that sits on a small island in Phewa Lake.  It is worthwhile visiting International Mountain Museum if you are keen on Nepal’s indigenous history and mountain climbing.

  • Accommodation in a hotel
  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
  • Hiking duration: 6 hr. approx.
  • Altitude above sea level: 895 m.

Day 12 Pokhara: Leisure Day

You can choose to spend your day simply by relaxing or exploring Pokhara. You can visit caves, museums, waterfalls, and pagodas. If you are an adventure enthusiast, then you can involve in various activities like paragliding, bungee jumping, and many more. You can enjoy the tranquility of a boat trip on the beautiful Phewa Lake and admire the reflection of the majestic Himalayas in its crystalline waters. The image of Fishtail Mountain in the crystal clear and calm water of Phewa Lake is something not to be missed.

  •  Accommodation in a hotel
  • Breakfast included
  • Tour duration: 4 hours approx.
  • Altitude above sea level: 825 m.

Day 13 Pokhara - Kathmandu

After breakfast, you take a short flight back to Kathmandu. Check in at the hotel and spend some time at leisure. You can go shopping for souvenirs for your beloved ones or simply relax after an exhausting but momentous adventure.

  • Accommodation in a hotel
  • Breakfast included
  • Flight duration: 25 minutes approx.
  • Altitude above sea level: 1,302 m.

Day 14 Kathmandu (departure day)

It is time to fly back home, keeping all the terrific experiences of Nepal in mind. Make sure you reach TIA airport on time, as you should check in 3 hours prior to your scheduled flight. If you wish to stay a few more days, there are still plenty more places to explore around Kathmandu valley.

  • Breakfast included
  • Driving duration: 25-30 minutes depending on traffic.

Inclusions & Exclusions

  • 3 nights hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast

  • 2 nights hotel in Pokhara with breakfast

  • 9 nights at Comfort Lodge throughout the trek on full board

  • Breakfast in hotel in Kathmandu

  • Breakfast in hotel in Pokhara

  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during the trek

  • Domestic flight from Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu

  • Private airport pick-up and transfer

  • Sightseeing in Kathmandu (Day 2)

  • Conservation fees

  • TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management Systems. For safety, all trekkers in Nepal must acquire the TIMS Card before trekking and this is in the inclusions.)

  • Trek permits

  • Kathmandu sightseeing tour

  • Any meals not mentioned as covered above and in the itinerary

  • Flights to/from Nepal

  • Tips

  • Travel Insurance

  • Liability Insurance

  • Beverages

  • Personal equipment

  • Visa fee: US $30 for 15 days, US $50 for 30 days, and US $125 for a 90-day, multiple-entry visa

  • Any activities not mentioned in the itinerary

  • Excess baggage beyond 20 kilos including day pack

Pricing

Prices exclude flights to/from the destination.

Prices are for double room occupancy unless indicated otherwise.

Solo travelers will have private rooms.

  • Deposit per person

    $200 pp

  • Group of 2 Travelers - price per person

    Contact for pricing

  • Group of 10 Travelers - price per person

    Contact for pricing

  • Single Supplement

    $200 (if traveling with a group and you prefer a private room)

Sustainability

Our company is Travelife certified, and we are committed to minimizing our negative impact on the environment and society. To achieve this, we work with our business partners such as accommodation providers and excursion providers to encourage the adoption of sustainable practices. We also create awareness among our guests and staff about the importance of sustainability. We believe that by promoting sustainable tourism, we can contribute to the preservation of natural and cultural resources for future generations.

Environmental Initiatives

We have taken various measures to reduce our carbon footprint. For example, we encourage guests to bring reusable water bottles and water filter tablets to reduce plastic waste. Our guides also collect trash along the trail and dispose of it in designated areas. During the trip, we avoid plastic-related items as much as possible, and we use cloth bags instead. Additionally, the trip is centered around trekking, which is a low-carbon impact activity. Our accommodations, including hotels and mountain lodges, are environmentally friendly, and most electricity and heating are generated by solar power and village electricity schemes.

Lastly, our office is an example of our economic practices, where we prioritize the use of sustainable products. We use biodegradable hand soap and cleaning powder, which are handmade and hand-packed by women from poor, remote communities. The office is solar-powered, and we use energy-efficient lights and water-efficient toilets. By incorporating sustainable practices in all aspects of our operations, we aim to promote responsible tourism that benefits both the environment and society.

Sociocultural Initiatives

We support the local community in various ways. The mountain lodges we use are made by locals with local materials, and they employ locals as staff. These lodges serve organic meals prepared from local produce and ingredients, catering to guests' dietary requirements such as vegetarian and vegan. The trip also includes hiking through villages, providing guests with an opportunity to interact with locals and witness their traditions and way of life.

Health & Safety

Be sure you have traveler's insurance.

FAQs

What does the Physical Rating of "Average" mean?

The minimum level of fitness is required as the trek is not an easy one, you will be walking for a minimum of 5 – 7 hours a day. Although it doesn’t require mountaineering skills, you do have to be healthy and mentally prepared for trekking in this region.

We recommend you undertake a variety of exercises to prepare for your trek, and specific activities that you relish to help you stay motivated. It is also important to take on some outdoor trek training, rather than just walking on flat terrain.

Pre-existing health conditions can make trekking at high altitudes even more complicated for you. We do recommend you consult your doctor or health advisor beforehand and talk about your trekking plans to take medical advice.

What are the accommodations like?

We use boutique hotels and lodges throughout the trip. Depending on the guest’s budget and preferences, we arrange three to five-star hotels. The hotels offer furnished rooms with all the modern amenities and Wi-Fi. We accommodate our guests at established hotels that are sustainable and implement safety, security as well as quality plan.

Lodges tend to be basic but adequate. Services vary according to altitude. So, at the lower elevation hot showers, boasting flush toilets, and neat rooms are available. In higher altitudes, the service is a bit more basic, with a standard shared toilet without a flushing device and a pot of hot water available for the shower. Toilet paper is not provided, so you should bring your own or purchase it locally. The food offered is varied, with some lodges offering local Nepali meals.

We try to use eco-lodges and eco-hotels as much as possible. This will ensure high standards when it comes to quality and comfort.

What is the best time of the year for this trek?

The trek is possible throughout the year. However, autumn and spring are the best seasons; choose to trek in autumn (Sep-Nov) as spring is busy with expedition stuff.

Can children trek in this region or are there any age restrictions?

Yes, children can trek as there is no age restrictions. We design suitable trekking itineraries for all age groups above 8 years old.

What clothes and personal kit should I bring on my trek in Nepal?

Trekking equipment and clothing are requisite items for the trekking and expedition in the Himalayas. The following trekking gear and clothes are essential to bring for your trekking:

Lightweight walking boots with ankle support and rubber soles are best, along with waterproof/wind trousers, jackets, and gloves. Down jackets are also recommended due to the higher altitude, along with light, comfortable, and quick-drying T-shirts, jumpers, and trekking trousers. Thermal underclothing is also advisable. A torch or head torch with spare batteries, a basic medical kit, and a multipurpose knife are also essential for the treks. We highly encourage bringing sunglasses with UV protection, for the sun and snow can be quite harmful to your eyes.

Other important items to bring include reusable bottles, tissue and toilet paper, a separate change of clothes to wear in the lodges and overnight, a 30-liter day bag, and a duffel bag to make transport easier on the porters. Snacks such as energy bars, electrolyte replacement drinks, cookies, and multivitamins are recommended.

Additionally, you should bring suntan lotion, soap, toothpaste, and insect repellent if you trek during the summer months. As regards accessories, we suggest that you bring camera equipment, binoculars, adapters, and earplugs. A Nepalese phrasebook, a walking stick, a cotton scarf or bandana, a sun hat, chapstick with SPF protection, spare shoelaces, a padlock or combination lock, whistles for emergencies, and a large plastic bag for lining your backpack are all items that would come in handy during this holiday trek.

Can I rent or purchase trekking equipment and snacks in Kathmandu to save bringing from home?

Yes, there are stores to buy clothes and personal equipment, we recommend Shonas Store in Thamel. So, in case you do not already have the personal gear, there is no need to purchase it at home.

Will it be possible to recharge the camera batteries? Do mobile phones work on the trek?

In most lodges, it is possible to recharge your batteries. The cost is approx. 300 rupees (US $ 4) per hour of charging.

Over the last few years, the mobile/ cell phone network has improved significantly in more remote areas of Nepal. There are now cell phone masts installed at Gorakshep so it is possible to get 3G connectivity throughout the entire Everest Base Camp trek. It is advisable to use local SIMs which are very reasonable. You will need one passport picture and a passport copy to get them. Roaming would be very expensive to use.

The electrical sockets in Nepal are one of two types: the most common being the European two-pin plug and also in some places the Indian three-pin plugs are also used.

What happens if I get sick in Nepal? Do I need to take malarial medicine as a prophylactic when traveling in Nepal?

On the vast majority of our trips, there are no issues with sickness as we allow sufficient time for acclimatization to the high altitude and people follow our guidelines regarding health and hygiene.

We strongly recommend you visit your local doctor or travel clinic before departure to get their latest advice.

How long do I need to trek every day?

The walk after breakfast is usually 3-4 hours long. Stop for lunch and take a rest and then walk for another 2-3 hours to the campsite/lodge.

We encourage members to walk at their own pace. There will usually be a guide to bring up the rear. On average you walk for about 6 to 7 hours on a trek per day.

Do I need travel insurance covered while trekking/traveling in Nepal?

Traveler's insurance that covers air/surface evacuation is mandatory; medical and lost baggage (especially cameras) is also recommended.

Where do I get my Nepal Visa?

All nationals must hold a valid passport. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your expected date of departure from Nepal.
An entry visa for all Nationals except Indians for Nepal is required. You need to arrange these prior to departure with the relevant embassy/consulate or you even get a visa on arrival. If you plan to obtain it in Nepal be sure to bring one passport-size photo with you for this purpose as well as the current visa fee in cash.

Are the trekking guides certified?

Our guides are well-trained, certified guides, have many years of experience in providing customized services, and speak very good English. They are trained in First Aid procedures and carry a comprehensive First Aid kit as well.

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