• Duration:11 Nights 12 Days
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Max. Altitude: 4400m
  • Group Size: 1-12
  • Activity: Hiking and Trekking
  • Pick Up: TIA Airport

About Khopra Danda Trekking

Khopra Danda Trekking (Khair Trek) is an exciting adventure into the remote and glacial wilderness below Annapurna South, 7237m, where few trekkers have ever gone. The Khair Trek is demanding but well worth the effort with ever-changing views of the stunning, snow-covered Annapurnas to inspire each step of the way.

Khopra Danda Trekking starts in terraced lowlands dotted with villages of the Gurung and Magar ethnic groups of the sub-tropical valley outside of Pokhara. The trail climbs to the middle hill country where rhododendron and oak forests areas are alive with exotic birds and beautiful flowers and finally reaches high glacial basins in the Annapurnas. We finally emerge above the tree line at Khopra Danda, meaning Skull Hill for a magnificent view. Annapurna I, 8091m and Dhaulagiri, 8167m, tower above us and at the same time, we can look down into the deepest gorge in the world, the Kali Gandaki.

An extra day is scheduled to visit the sacred lake of Khair near the base of Annapurna where the yearly festival celebrated by drinking fresh yak blood. The hike to Lake Khair is long and strenuous hike with some frozen mountain streams to cross, but we rewarded with marvelous views. The trek back to Pokhara takes us via Ghorepani, Poon Hill for one of the most famous panorama views of the Annapurna range. This exciting trek can be enjoyed all year around. The departure dates depending upon the time and flexibility of the guests.

Highlights of Khopra Danda Trekking

  • few trekkers visit this rugged glacial area below Annapurna South
  • view from Kopra Danda:high peaks of Annapurna I, Daulagiri, and down into the deep Kali Gandaki Gorge
  • beautiful Khair Lake, 4572m
  • rich varieties of flora and fauna
  • tea house trek gives great opportunity to interact with locals

Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu, 1300 m/4,265 ft

Flying to Kathmandu is in itself an exciting and memorable experience. On a clear day, you will get a panoramic view of the snow-capped towering peaks. After completing the visa formalities in airport, collect your luggage downstairs. As you exit the airport terminal, you will be welcomed by one of our representatives carrying your name on our company’s’ signboard, Annapurna Foothills Treks & Expedition. Moving forward, you’ll be taken to your hotel in our vehicle. Once you reach at hotel, you’ll be welcomed by them as well and after that you can relax in your room or go for a walk exploring the city.

  • Welcome Dinner
  • Hotel

Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara early in the morning by tourist bus or Private vehicle passing the River side of Trisuli. It takes about 7 hours to reach in Pokhara valley. We can visit some interesting places like Devi’s Fall, Guptswor Cave, Tal Barahi Temple and boating on Phewa Lake in Pokhara.

Option: We have not included the airfare Kathmandu- Pokhara (USD $125 Per Person). The exciting half hour flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara gives you the feeling of a mountain flight, high in the Himalayas where you can see the Langtang, Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. If you chose to travel to Pokhara by flight, we give free Airport Drop and Pick up. 

  • Breakfast
  • Hotel

Early in the morning, we drive to Kimchi from Pokhara in a private vehicle. From there, we begin ascending through the beautiful rhododendron forests. Further, we walk to a small pass to reach Tadapani settlement. The trail is going to be gorgeous and you will get to see the wonderful landscape during the trek. 

  • Breakfast
  • Tea House/ Lodge

Today, we leave the main trail behind and trek on an off-beaten path of Annapurna region. We trek through lush forests of oak and rhododendron and ascend along the tree line to reach a ridge. From here, the trail will take you to Bayeli Kharka where we stay overnight.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

We ascend on a grassy slope and trek through rich the pasture lands. We might see colorful Danphe pheasants (the national bird of Nepal) and Himalayan Thars on the grassy ridges high above the trail. Then to Upper Chistibung. 

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

After having breakfast, we ascend gradually through the alpine meadows and as we trek further, we will get to see a glimpse of Annapurna South in a distance. Moving forward, we will ascend all the way up to the Khopra Ridge to stay overnight.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

Reserve day today. We hike around the ridge and take a good rest here to cope up better with the thin air of the Himalaya.

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

Today, we begin trekking towards the Swanta village. We trek through the terraced farmlands and small traditional houses. On a clear day, we will get to see the spectular scenes of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167 m) along the trail..

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

Today, we wake up early in the morning and begin our trek. Walking through the forest of oak and rhododendron, we reach Ghorepani. From Ghorepani, we'll hike down all the way to Ulleri and stay overnight there. 

  • Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Tea House/ Lodge

Today, we end our trek by heading back down to Nayapul where a vehicle will pick us up for the short drive back to Pokhara. 

  • Breakfast
  • Hotel

Early morning, we depart from Pokhara Tourist Bus Station to travel back to Kathmandu. If you are interested in continuing on to Chitwan Jungle Safari, River Rafting Adventure or any other tours you can start today.

Option: We have not included the airfare of Pokhara – Kathmandu (USD $120 Per Person). The exciting half hour flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu gives you the feeling of a mountain flight, high in the Himalaya where you can see the Langtang, Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. If you chose to travel to Kathmandu by flight, we give free Airport Drop and Pick up. You need to book this flight before start the trek. 

  • Breakfast
  • Hotel

We will accompany you to the International Airport in time to board your flight. Check in at the Kathmandu international airport 3 hours prior to your flight time.

  • Breakfast

What's Included

  • Transfer from Airport – Hotel – Airport: Car, Van, Hi-ace or Coaster in a private vehicle.
  • Authentic Nepali welcome dinner with Live Nepalese Cultural Program.
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu, Two nights on Twin share Bed and Breakfast Basis.
  • Accommodation in Pokhara, Two nights on Twin share Bed and Breakfast Basis.
  • Accommodation during Trek ; local lodges 7 nights (With twin-share rooms ,beds with comfortable foam mattress and pillows)
  • All standard meals(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the trekking
  • English speaking experienced Sherpa guide (Govt. Trained/License Holder).
  • One Sherpa guide-assistant if group size is more than 4 Trekkers.
  • Porters: One porter for 2 Trekkers basis.(Max 25 KG per porter)
  • Trek Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, food and accommodation.
  • Personal insurance for Nepalese staff.
  • Annapurna Foothill’s Duffle bag for Trekking.
  • Annapurna Foothill’s T-shirt.
  • Energy Supplies; Snickers, Mars, Bounty etc. 
  • First aid medicine kit.
  • Annapurna Conservation Fee, TIMS permits & all required permits or Official Documentation.
  • All ground transfers Kathmandu –Pokhara - Kathmandu
  • All government and local taxes.

What’s Excluded

  • Your Personal Travel Insurance.
  • Nepal Entry Visa Fee.
  • Lunch & Dinner in cities - allow $ 10 to 14 for per meal in Tourist restaurants.
  • Beverages (drinks, mineral water, boiled water and beer).
  • Tips for guide, porters and driver (customary).
  • Additional night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara because of early return from Trek (due to any reason) than the planned itinerary

Departure Dates

FromToStatusPrice  
Start Date02 Apr, 2024End Date13 Apr, 2024AvailableUS$ 900
Start Date18 Apr, 2024End Date29 Apr, 2024AvailableUS$ 900
Start Date30 Apr, 2024End Date11 May, 2024AvailableUS$ 900

Departure Note:

Guaranteed - We already have trekkers booked for those dates and you can join the group.

Available - The date is available to book and once you confirm your trip it will be guaranteed.

Limited - The departure date is filling fast and only limited seats are available to join.

Closed- The Trip cannot be booked on that specific date. Contact us for customized dates.

The departure dates are your arrival dates in Nepal.


We have set dates for departure to the Amazing Khopra Danda Trekking. So, pick your preferable date and let the adventure begin.

Khopra Danda Trekking is available and can be done throughout the year. So, if the date you prefer is not listed on our departure dates then you can contact us directly to book the trip on your own desired date.

We have listed the price up to 12 trekkers at maximum. If you are more than 12 trekkers, then please feel free to contact us for amazing discounted group price and further booking process.

Private Trips to Khopra Danda Trekking is possible on any date of the year. Contact us to design your own private trips with you loved ones.

Solo Trips: Single trekkers are always welcome to join the trek. On your arrival at Kathmandu, you’ll have a single room in Kathmandu Hotel as per your requirement and have to share a room at the local teahouses during the trekking.

Useful Info

The Best Time to do Khopra Danda Trekking:

The best seasons for trekking in the Annapurna region are spring (February to late April) and autumn (late September to late November). Winter is also possible. During winter there are very few tourists. Some people prefer this season, as they enjoy the beauty of the snow, and the environment of the remote areas without the influx of foreigners.

Cultural Aspects of the Khopra Danda Trekking:
The most prominent ethnic groups in the Annapurna region are the Gurungs, Thakali, and Manangba. The Gurungs are the most widely dispersed, being found from the hills of Gorkha district to as far West as Palpa. The Thakalis come from the upper Kali Gandaki Valley around Jomsom, where their traditional farming has been supplemented by trade, in particular the hotel and restaurant business.

Spending Money per Day:

Although it depends on your spending habits, you should allocate US$ 10 - 15 per meal in Kathmandu. On the trek, your meals are included, but you may wish to purchase extras which are not included in your package, such as chocolate bars, Coca Cola or a beer. US$10 - 15 a day should be enough, but keep in mind the cost of all items increases proportionately with the distance from the trail head.

Drinking Water on the Khopra Danda Trekking:

While trekking, it is important to keep hydrated; you should drink at least 3 liters of water each day. In the Annapurna Region there are Euro-guard filters, so all you need is your own water bottle and you can refill it easily. We suggest you bring a supply of water purification tablets in case Euro-guard water is not available. We request that you avoid using bottled mineral water, as the bottles are not easily disposed of.

Washing and Toilet facilities for Khopra Danda Trekking:

Most lodges offer hot showers, though sometimes a hot shower means a bucket of hot water. You can ask your trekking guide about the availability. For ecological reasons please try and limit your use of hot water unless the water is solar-heated. Please note that at higher altitude and in colder seasons there is very little chance to have enough hot water for all the trekkers. If the water is frozen then ask your guide to get warm bowl of water. Every lodge will have some kind of hand washing facility but it is good idea to carry a bar of soap with you.

Toilets are usually Asian squat style and vary in how clean they are. Normally toilets are outside the lodge but now some lodges have attached or indoor toilets. The rubbish bin in the toilet is kept for your used toilet paper.

Re-charging Batteries of Electronic Items on the Trek:
You can recharge your digital camera, iPod, batteries etc. with electricity or solar power sources. You may need to buy an adaptor in Kathmandu before the trip since the plugs in Nepal might be different. The lodges charge a small fee per hour for recharging facilities. Nepal uses 220-240 volts to power your appliances. The sockets fit both round and flat plugs.

Fitness/Health:

If you have a reasonable level of fitness, this trek should be more than manageable. The altitude becomes more noticeable the higher we go, so we walk at a slow pace and take plenty of breaks to rest and acclimatize.

Trip Grading and Suitability:

To assist you in choosing a trek and to give you an idea of what you can expect, we have categorized our trips by their level of difficulty, A is the easiest, D, the most hard. In addition to this, the levels have been sub-divided into four areas, suitability, walking times, highest altitude, terrain type, and remoteness.

Khopra Danda Trekking Grade: Moderate:
1. Walking times: 5-6 hours per day for up to 10 days
2. Altitude: up to 4400m
3. Terrain: mostly following well-travelled trails, daily ascent and descent
4. Remoteness: reasonable level of local infrastructure, including lodge accommodation

Safety:

When travelling in remote mountain regions, uncertainties such as weather, health problems and natural disasters require a certain amount of flexibility. While our goal is to follow the itinerary, that is not our first priority; your safety is always our first priority. Annapurna Foothills Treks and Expeditions request your cooperation to accept the decisions and advice of our trusted and experienced guides if they deem it necessary to change or cancel any part of the itinerary due to safety concerns.

Travel Insurance:

It is strongly recommended to be sufficiently protected when you go into remote areas. You need specialized travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation, injury, lost baggage, liability and medical treatment. Make sure the insurance covers all the activities that you will be undertaking during your stay in Nepal. Annapurna Foothills Treks and Expeditions Pvt. Ltd. can organize the appropriate medical response based on your policy.

How Can I Plan and Confirm My Trip?
Annapurna Foothills Treks and Expedition is a government licensed trekking and touring company in Nepal. On the following terms and conditions, we accept your bookings. In order to confirm your bookings we require a non-refundable deposit US$ of 15% down payment in advance is mandatory to book the flight tickets and hotel booking and permit process too. Bookings must be done 60 days prior to your planned trekking date, to reserve a place. This amount can be sent by bank-to-bank transfer, Western Union, money grams, or credit card (telex transfer or wire transfer). And the rest of the money must be paid to us upon arrival.