Igloo Himalaya Treks
Annapurna Region • 11 Days Forest & Ridge Trek
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Khopra Ridge Trek — 11 Days

Walk through the forests above Ghandruk to Khopra Ridge on our eleven-day trek in the Annapurna region. Tadapani and Dobato lead towards the ridge, where clear weather opens views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South and Nilgiri. The programme includes a planned return hike to Khayar Lake, subject to conditions and how you feel, before descending through Swanta to Ghorepani. A Poon Hill sunrise begins the final walking day, followed by the road return journey through Pokhara to Kathmandu.

Key Trip Facts

Duration 11 Days 6 walking stages + Khayar Lake hike
Difficulty Moderate to Demanding Moderate ridge; demanding lake excursion
Maximum Altitude 4,660 m / 15,288 ft Khayar Lake (3,660 m Khopra Ridge overnight)
Destination Nepal Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP)
Activity Trekking & High Ridge Walking Alpine trail & sacred lake excursion
Accommodation Hotels (4N) & Mountain Lodges (6N) 3★ KTM & PKR; community teahouses on trek
Transport Private Transfers & Road / Flight KTM–PKR overland/flight & private trailhead jeep
Meals City B'fasts + All Trek Meals Full board on trek (B, L, D) & KTM farewell dinner
Recommended Season Spring & Autumn Mar–May (rhododendrons) & Sep–Nov (clearest views)
Trek Starts Ghandruk (1,940 m) Scenic private drive from Pokhara
Trek Ends Birethanti (1,025 m) Via Poon Hill sunrise & Pokhara drive
Trek Region Annapurna Himalayas Khopra Danda, Khayar Lake & Poon Hill
Package Start Point Kathmandu (1,400 m) Airport arrival transfer & trek briefing
Package End Point Kathmandu (1,400 m) Airport departure transfer on Day 11
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Khopra Ridge Trek Overview

Our eleven-day Khopra Ridge Trek follows forest trails from Ghandruk through Tadapani and Dobato to a ridge at around 3,660 m. The programme combines two nights at Khopra with a planned Khayar Lake excursion and a return through Swanta and Ghorepani. A Poon Hill sunrise begins the final trekking day before the descent towards Birethanti.

After travelling from Kathmandu to Pokhara, you drive to Ghandruk, a Gurung village above the Modi valley. The trail climbs through rhododendron and oak forest towards Tadapani, where you spend the first mountain night. From there, you continue towards Dobato as the air becomes cooler and the forest opens in places. These stages involve sustained climbs and uneven ground, with mountain views between the trees in clear weather.

Beyond Dobato, the route continues through higher pasture and ridge country towards Khopra Danda. At around 3,660 m, the lodge stands above the valleys, with Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South and Nilgiri visible when skies clear. You stay for two nights, using the intervening day for the hike to Khayar Lake when conditions and your health allow.

Khayar Lake is around 4,660 m, higher than the ridge lodge. The return hike involves a long climb and descent on rocky paths, so it requires more effort than the ridge route. Your guide considers weather, trail conditions and how you feel before proceeding. After the second Khopra night, descend towards Swanta, then climb through forests and farmland to Ghorepani.

The final trekking morning begins with Poon Hill sunrise before the descent to Birethanti. Ten nights, travel and departure complete the eleven-day programme, beginning and ending in Kathmandu.

Key Route Highlights & Destinations

Ghandruk (1,940m) Tadapani (2,630m) Dobato (3,350m) Khopra Ridge (3,660m) Khayar Lake (4,660m) Swanta (2,214m) Ghorepani (2,850m) Poon Hill (3,210m) Pokhara (827m) Kathmandu (1,400m)
6 Walking Stages Alpine Lake Excursion Poon Hill Sunrise Dhaulagiri & Annapurna Vistas

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Khopra Ridge Trek Highlights

Stay on Khopra Ridge at around 3,660 m, with views towards Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South and Nilgiri when clouds clear across the mountains.
Plan a return hike to Khayar Lake, around 4,660 m, when conditions and your health allow.
Follow rhododendron and oak forest paths above Ghandruk, continuing through Tadapani and Dobato towards the ridge country.
Descend to Swanta, a Magar village surrounded by farmland below the higher mountain slopes.
Watch sunrise from Poon Hill before descending through Ulleri and Hile to Birethanti for your transfer.
Combine forest trails, ridge walking and lodge stays, with a route returning through Ghorepani and road access from trekking endpoints.

Why Book the Khopra Ridge Trek with Igloo Himalaya Treks?

We help you prepare in Kathmandu and support the forest and ridge trek through these arrangements, equipment and staff services.

Trek Briefing and Gear Check

Before departure, we discuss the route, equipment and transport. Your briefing gives you time to ask about lodge facilities, the ridge ascent and Khayar Lake before travelling towards Pokhara.

Guide and Porter Support

Your package includes a professional English-speaking guide and one insured porter for every two trekkers. The guide leads the route and discusses daily conditions, while your porter carries the trekking luggage.

Equipment Provided for the Trek

We provide a sleeping bag, down jacket and duffel bag for use during the trek. Return all three afterwards. Bring your own boots, clothing and other personal essentials for the journey.

Communication When Plans Change

Weather, trail and road conditions can affect the programme, particularly the lake hike. Our team explains options and discusses changes, with additional accommodation or transport costs clarified when services exceed your quotation.

Khopra Ridge Trek (11 Days) Itinerary: Day by Day Details

Our authentic 11 Days Khopra Ridge Trek itinerary is expertly paced for safe acclimatization and panoramic mountain vistas. Review the full day-by-day stages, distances, elevations, and overnight stops below:

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu – 1,400 m / 4,593 ft – Arrival Transfer

Arrival Transfer
Overnight: Authentic Teahouse / Mountain Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Our Igloo Himalaya Treks representative warmly welcomes you outside the terminal and transfers you to your hotel. Evening pre-trip orientation, gear check, and welcome dinner.

Day 2: Drive or Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara

Scenic flight between Pokhara and Kathmandu – 820 m / 2,690 ft – 25-min scenic flight

25-min scenic flight
Overnight: Authentic Teahouse / Mountain Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Spectacular morning flight between Pokhara and Kathmandu, soaking in panoramic aerial vistas across the snow-clad peaks of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu massifs.

Day 3: Drive to Ghandruk and Trek to Tadapani

Drive to Ghandruk and Trek to Tadapani – 1,860 m / 6,102 ft – 6-8 hrs scenic road drive

6-8 hrs scenic road drive
Overnight: Authentic Teahouse / Mountain Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Private overland transport through lush river valleys, terraced hillsides, and traditional rural settlements. Enjoy scenic lunch stops along the scenic highway.

Day 4: Trek from Tadapani to Dobato

Trek from Tadapani to Dobato – 2,673 m / 8,770 ft – 5-6 hrs trek

5-6 hrs trek
Overnight: Authentic Teahouse / Mountain Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Follow well-maintained stone trails winding past prayer wheels, mani walls, cascading waterfalls, and traditional Himalayan teahouse settlements with warm hospitality and freshly cooked meals.

Day 5: Trek from Dobato to Khopra Ridge

Trek from Dobato to Khopra Ridge – 2,891 m / 9,485 ft – 5-6 hrs trek

5-6 hrs trek
Overnight: Authentic Teahouse / Mountain Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Follow well-maintained stone trails winding past prayer wheels, mani walls, cascading waterfalls, and traditional Himalayan teahouse settlements with warm hospitality and freshly cooked meals.

Day 6: Hike to Khayar Lake → Return to Khopra Ridge

Hike to Khayar Lake → Return to Khopra Ridge (High Pass / Ascent) – 4,660 m – 7-9 hrs challenging trek

7-9 hrs challenging trek
Overnight: Authentic Teahouse / Mountain Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Early pre-dawn departure under starlight with headlamps. A steady, rhythmic ascent brings you to the prayer-flag adorned high summit or pass. Marvel at 360-degree Himalayan panoramas before descending safely to the overnight lodge.

Day 7: Trek from Khopra Ridge to Swanta

Trek from Khopra Ridge to Swanta – 3,327 m / 10,915 ft – 5-6 hrs trek

5-6 hrs trek
Overnight: Authentic Teahouse / Mountain Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Follow well-maintained stone trails winding past prayer wheels, mani walls, cascading waterfalls, and traditional Himalayan teahouse settlements with warm hospitality and freshly cooked meals.

Day 8: Trek from Swanta to Ghorepani

Trek from Swanta to Ghorepani – 3,545 m / 11,631 ft – 5-6 hrs trek

5-6 hrs trek
Overnight: Authentic Teahouse / Mountain Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Follow well-maintained stone trails winding past prayer wheels, mani walls, cascading waterfalls, and traditional Himalayan teahouse settlements with warm hospitality and freshly cooked meals.

Day 9: Sunrise Hike to Poon Hill → Trek to Birethanti → Drive to Pokhara

Sunrise Hike to Poon Hill → Trek to Birethanti → Drive to Pokhara – 1,860 m / 6,102 ft – 6-8 hrs scenic road drive

6-8 hrs scenic road drive
Overnight: Authentic Teahouse / Mountain Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Private overland transport through lush river valleys, terraced hillsides, and traditional rural settlements. Enjoy scenic lunch stops along the scenic highway.

Day 10: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu – 1,860 m / 6,102 ft – 6-8 hrs scenic road drive

6-8 hrs scenic road drive
Overnight: Authentic Teahouse / Mountain Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Private overland transport through lush river valleys, terraced hillsides, and traditional rural settlements. Enjoy scenic lunch stops along the scenic highway.

Day 11: Farewell by Igloo Himalaya Treks

Kathmandu Departure – 1,400 m / 4,593 ft – Airport Transfer

Airport Transfer
Overnight: Authentic Teahouse / Mountain Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, explore local Kathmandu markets for souvenirs before our private vehicle transfers you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight home.

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What's Included in the Khopra Ridge Trek (8 Days)

All Ground Transportation

Private Vehicle Transfers as specified in the itinerary.

All Official Permits

Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit and TIMS registration card.

Licensed Guide & Porter Support

Government-certified Wilderness First Aid trained lead guide and strong local mountain porters (1 porter per 2 trekkers, max 20 kg total) with full insurance and gear.

All Teahouse & Lodge Accommodations

Community Eco-Lodges & Teahouses (twin-sharing rooms with cozy dining halls throughout the trek).

Full Board Wholesome Meals

Three wholesome meals a day chosen from lodge menus during the trek, plus Welcome and celebration Farewell dinners in Kathmandu/Pokhara.

Down Jacket, Sleeping Bag & Duffel

Complimentary down jacket and 4-season (-20°C) sleeping bag rental for the trek upon request, plus official Igloo Himalaya Treks waterproof duffel bag.

What's Excluded

International Airfare & Nepal Entry Visa

International flights to/from Kathmandu and Nepal tourist entry visa fees ($30 for 15 days, $50 for 30 days).

Travel & Medical Evacuation Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter rescue up to 4,660 m (15,288 ft).

Hot Showers, Device Charging & Teahouse Wi-Fi

Incidental teahouse utility services along the mountain trail (gas-heated bucket showers, device charging, and Wi-Fi access cards: typically $2–$4 per item).

Personal Drinks & Crew Gratuities

Bottled/boiled water, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, and customary tips for your trekking guide and porter team.

Khopra Ridge Trek Dates & Availability

Select your preferred month to view 2026 guaranteed fixed group departures, or request custom private dates. Prices are per-person starting rates in US dollars.

Starting Prices by Group Size

Prices per person based on group size with full service inclusions, private transfers, and experienced local guides:

1 Person (Solo) $1,015 Guaranteed Departure
2–4 People $965 Guaranteed Departure
5–9 People $925 Best Value Deal
10–20 People Request a quote Custom Group Rate
Other group sizes Request a quote Tailored Quote
2026
05
AUG

Aug 5 – Aug 15, 2026

AVAILABLE
$925 pp
15
AUG

Aug 15 – Aug 25, 2026

AVAILABLE
$925 pp

What to Pack for the Khopra Ridge Trek

Pack layers for warmer forest walks, cold ridge nights and the higher Khayar Lake excursion. Keep water, warm clothing, rain protection, medicines and valuables in your daypack. Use our interactive checklist to track your preparation.

Packed: 0 / 37

Hiking Gear

7 items

Clothing

11 items

Sleeping Equipment

2 items

Toiletries & Hygiene

5 items

Electronics

4 items

Documents & Personal Items

8 items

Read before you book, Khopra Ridge Trek

Before booking your Khopra Ridge Trek, consider the walking days, ridge accommodation and demanding Khayar Lake excursion. Review these details against your experience and discuss the programme with us.

If you are still unsure if this trek is for you, then email or WhatsApp us. We will get back to you within 24 hours to answer any more questions.

0/10 read Nice start — keep going

Trek Difficulty and Fitness

The main trek is moderate, with six walking stages through forests, villages and ridge country. The Khayar Lake excursion adds a more demanding day, climbing to around 4,660 m before returning. Expect long uphill sections, uneven paths and substantial descents, including the final walk from Ghorepani.

Previous hiking experience is helpful. First-time trekkers should build endurance before departure and become comfortable walking uphill and downhill regularly with a daypack.

Begin preparing around two to three months beforehand, allowing longer if you are starting from a low fitness level. Gradually combine regular walks, hill hikes and strength exercises. Practise in the boots you will wear on the trek.

Altitude and Acclimatisation

The itinerary has no dedicated acclimatisation day. You climb from Tadapani through Dobato to Khopra Ridge, with two nights there. The lake excursion adds substantial altitude and physical effort.

Tell your guide about headaches, nausea, dizziness or unusual fatigue. Do not continue higher while experiencing symptoms of altitude illness. If symptoms worsen despite rest at the same elevation, descend. The lake excursion is optional, and the decision should reflect your health, weather and trail conditions.

Medical Conditions and Travel Insurance

If you have an existing medical condition, seek advice from a healthcare professional familiar with high-altitude travel before booking. Discuss the planned route and any medicines you take.

Travel insurance is strongly recommended and excluded from the package. Choose cover for trekking to approximately 4,660 metres, medical treatment and emergency evacuation in Nepal. Check exclusions, excess charges and the insurer’s assistance procedure. Carry policy details and emergency contacts throughout the journey.

Accommodation and Room Facilities

You stay in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara for two nights each, with six mountain nights in local teahouses and community lodges. Two consecutive nights are spent at Khopra Ridge.

Most mountain rooms have twin beds, mattresses, pillows and blankets, with shared bathrooms. Facilities become simpler around the higher ridge. Ask about room arrangements before departure and keep warm layers accessible for cold lodge evenings and mornings.

Food and Dietary Requirements

Lodge meals include dal bhat, noodles, soups and vegetable dishes. Trekking meals include tea or coffee, with fruit and Snickers at dinner.

Tell us about allergies or dietary requirements before booking so we can discuss what can be arranged along the route. Explain strict requirements clearly, including any concerns about shared cooking equipment.

Drinking Water Safety

Carry reusable bottles and drink boiled or appropriately treated water. Stream water and untreated tap water may still contain germs that cause illness.

Boiling is the most reliable way to kill germs. If boiling is unavailable, filtration followed by disinfection offers broader protection than many portable filters alone. Follow the instructions for your water-treatment equipment or tablets.

Guide and Porter Support

A professional English-speaking guide and one porter for every two trekkers are included. Team insurance, fair salaries and necessary equipment are covered. Confirm the baggage allowance and any solo porter arrangement before packing.

Showers, Charging and Communication

Hot showers, Wi-Fi and device charging may cost extra, with availability varying between lodges. Electricity and communication can be less reliable at Khopra Ridge. Carry a charged power bank and tell family that contact may be limited. Ask your guide about available services at each stop.

Permits and Documents

ACAP is included. The Khopra route also requires an agency-issued TIMS card and licensed guide under the tourism board’s listed provisions. Confirm TIMS arrangements and costs before departure. Carry your passport, insurance details and permit copies.

Travel Delays and Extra Time

Rain, landslides and roadworks can affect the transfers. Snow, wind and visibility can affect the lake hike, so allow flexibility around walking and travel.

Allow extra time before your international departure. Additional accommodation, meals or transport can cost extra when delays or changes require services outside the programme.

Altitude Profile of the Khopra Ridge Trek

The route climbs from Ghandruk through Tadapani and Dobato to Khopra Ridge, where you spend two nights. Khayar Lake is higher than the overnight lodge and involves a return day hike. You then descend to Swanta, climb towards Ghorepani and visit Poon Hill before leaving.

Interactive elevation map showing daily gain and acclimatization stopping points. Switch units below to convert between meters (m) and feet (ft).

Overnight Altitudes

Day Overnight Stop Approximate Altitude
Day 1 Kathmandu 1,400 m (4,593 ft)
Day 2 Pokhara 827 m (2,713 ft)
Day 3 Tadapani 2,630 m (8,628 ft)
Day 4 Dobato 3,350 m (10,990 ft)
Day 5 Khopra Ridge 3,660 m (12,008 ft)
Day 6 Khopra Ridge (Khayar Lake Day Hike: 4,660 m) 3,660 m / 4,660 m peak
Day 7 Swanta 2,214 m (7,264 ft)
Day 8 Ghorepani 2,850 m (9,350 ft)
Day 9 Pokhara (Poon Hill Sunrise: 3,210 m) 827 m / 3,210 m viewpoint
Day 10 Kathmandu 1,400 m (4,593 ft)
Day 11 Departure No overnight stay

Higher Places You Visit on the Trek

  • undefined: Around 3,350 m, an overnight stop above Tadapani before continuing towards Khopra.
  • undefined: Around 3,660 m, the highest overnight stop, with two nights planned here.
  • undefined: Approximately 4,660 m if reached, before returning to sleep at Khopra Ridge.
  • undefined: Around 3,210 m, for sunrise before descending towards Birethanti and Pokhara.

Weather and Best Time for the Khopra Ridge Trek

Spring, from March to May, and autumn, from September to November, are generally the best seasons for the Khopra Ridge Trek. Both offer opportunities for mountain views and favourable walking conditions, although cold, wind, rain and snowfall remain possible around the ridge and lake.

Find out the temperature ranges you will experience along the trail. Toggle between daily variation and monthly averages, and switch units below to convert between Celsius (°C) and Fahrenheit (°F).

Seasonal Weather Conditions

Season Months What to Expect
Spring March–May undefined
Autumn September–November undefined
Winter December–February undefined
Monsoon June–August, sometimes into Sep undefined

How Weather Changes Along the Route

Forest walks can feel warmer in sunshine, while Dobato and Khopra are colder after sunset. The Khayar Lake route is higher and more exposed, with wind adding to the cold. Carry warm layers and check conditions before attempting the longer excursion.

Which Season Should You Choose?

Choose spring for warming days and blooming rhododendron forests. Choose autumn, especially October or November, if mountain visibility is your priority. Winter needs checks for snow, while monsoon departures require flexibility around wet trails.

Khopra Ridge Trek Map

Book the Khopra Ridge Trek

Send us your travel dates, number of travellers and questions about Khopra Ridge. We’ll confirm the price, accommodation and transport for your group. Tell us about your hiking experience and any previous altitude difficulties so we can discuss the ridge ascent and planned Khayar Lake excursion before you decide to book this trek.

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Khopra Ridge Trek FAQs

General & Route

Can I do this trek without previous trekking experience? ∨

Yes, with suitable fitness and preparation. The route includes sustained climbs, uneven paths and long descents. Practise hill walks with a daypack before departure. The Khayar Lake excursion is demanding and depends on conditions and how you feel.

Does this route include sunrise at Poon Hill? ∨

Yes. We stay in Ghorepani on Day 8 and hike to Poon Hill the next morning for sunrise, weather permitting. Afterwards, descend through Ulleri and Hile to Birethanti before driving to Pokhara for another hotel night.

Do we sleep overnight at Khayar Lake? ∨

No. Khayar Lake is a daytime excursion from Khopra Ridge, with the return planned for the same day. We spend two nights at the ridge lodge. The lake visit depends on weather, trail conditions and your health during trekking.

How does this trek differ from Poon Hill trekking? ∨

This itinerary adds the Khopra Ridge section and a planned Khayar Lake excursion before finishing through Ghorepani and Poon Hill. A standalone Poon Hill trek focuses on forest and village trails. Choose according to your time, fitness and altitude preferences.

Do I need to carry my main trekking bag? ∨

A porter carries your main bag, with one porter for every two trekkers. Confirm the baggage allowance before packing. You carry a daypack with water, warm layers, medicines, valuables and essentials for the walking day.

Do I need to bring a sleeping bag and down jacket? ∨

We provide a sleeping bag, down jacket and duffel bag for use during the trek. Return all three afterwards. Bring your own boots, clothing and personal essentials. Confirm the equipment’s warmth and suitability for your departure season.

What is the highest altitude on this itinerary? ∨

The Khayar Lake hike reaches approximately 4,660 metres if completed. Khopra Ridge, around 3,660 metres, is the highest overnight stop. You return to the ridge lodge after the excursion, rather than staying overnight at the lake.

Is the Khayar Lake hike compulsory? ∨

No. The lake hike is planned for Day 6 but remains optional. Your guide considers weather, trail conditions and how you feel. Discuss suitable alternatives at the ridge if the excursion cannot go ahead safely.

Does being fit protect me from altitude sickness? ∨

No. Good fitness helps with the demands, but it does not prevent altitude illness. Fit and experienced trekkers can also become unwell. Follow your guide’s advice and report symptoms instead of assuming fitness will protect you at altitude.

What should I do if I feel unwell at altitude? ∨

Tell your guide about headaches, nausea, dizziness or unusual fatigue. Do not ascend while experiencing symptoms of altitude illness. If symptoms worsen despite rest at the same elevation, descent is necessary. Skip the lake hike when unwell.

Can I book as a solo traveller? ∨

Yes. The solo starting price is from USD 1,015 per person. Send us your dates so we can confirm availability and your quotation, including the room arrangement, porter allocation and any supplement for your departure.

Is insurance covering trekking to 4,000 metres sufficient? ∨

That limit does not cover the Khayar Lake excursion, which reaches approximately 4,660 metres. Choose insurance covering the full route, trekking activity, medical treatment and emergency evacuation in Nepal. Check exclusions and the insurer’s assistance procedure before departure.