The Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake Trek offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience in the Annapurna region of Nepal. This trek is perfect for those seeking breathtaking Himalayan views, cultural immersion, and a serene atmosphere. Ideal for beginners, families, and seasoned trekkers alike, this journey takes you through vibrant rhododendron forests, traditional Gurung villages, and picturesque terraced farmlands.
One of the main highlights is the opportunity to witness the stunning sunrise over the Himalayas from Poon Hill, offering panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and other majestic peaks. The trek also takes you to Khayer Lake, a sacred high-altitude lake surrounded by awe-inspiring mountain scenery, where you’ll feel the spiritual energy of this revered site.
This trek introduces you to the rich cultural heritage of the Gurung and Magar communities, while supporting the local economy by staying in community-run teahouses. The route was established to uplift the living standards of villagers along the trail, creating a meaningful connection between travelers and locals. Along the way, you'll pass through traditional villages like Ghandruk, Swanta, and Dobato, where you can experience the local way of life and enjoy the warm hospitality of the mountain communities.
The Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake Trek not only offers extraordinary views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, and Himchuli, but it also provides a peaceful trekking experience away from the crowds, making it a memorable adventure for those looking for a more tranquil Himalayan trek.
Detailed Itinerary for Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake Trek
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m/4593ft)
Arrive in Kathmandu, where a representative from Peregrine Treks will welcome you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel in Thamel, the heart of the city. In the afternoon or evening, you’ll have a briefing with your trek guide to review the itinerary and any final preparations. Enjoy your free time to explore the bustling streets of Thamel and make any last-minute gear purchases.
Meals: Not included
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Kathmandu
Day 2: Fly to Pokhara and Drive to Kimchi – Trek to Ghandruk (1940m/6365ft)
In the morning, take a short scenic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre ranges. Upon arrival, drive to Kimchi (about 2-3 hours), the starting point of the trek. Begin your trek to Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung village. The trek will be a leisurely 1-2 hours, allowing time to explore Ghandruk, its monasteries, and the Gurung Museum.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse in Ghandruk
Walking Time: 1-2 hours
Day 3: Trek from Ghandruk to Dobato (3350m/10990ft)
Today, the trek takes you through lush rhododendron and oak forests with stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The trail is filled with vibrant flora, especially during spring, when the forest is in full bloom. The journey will take about 7-8 hours, and you’ll reach Dobato, a beautiful hilltop village offering amazing mountain views.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse in Dobato
Walking Time: 7-8 hours
Day 4: Trek from Dobato to Khopra Ridge (3660m/12006ft)
Start your day early with a short hike to Muldai Viewpoint, where you can enjoy a stunning sunrise over the Himalayas. Afterward, continue your trek to Khopra Ridge. This section of the trek offers magnificent views of Annapurna South, Himchuli, and Dhaulagiri. The trek is relatively steep but rewarding as you ascend through forests and remote villages before reaching Khopra Danda, where you will stay overnight at a community-run teahouse.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse in Khopra Ridge
Walking Time: 6-7 hours
Day 5: Rest Day in Khopra Ridge – Hike to Khayer Lake (4500m/14762ft)
Today is a challenging but rewarding day. Start early to hike up to Khayer Lake, a high-altitude sacred lake located at 4500 meters. This lake is considered holy by locals and offers a spectacular close-up view of Annapurna South and other peaks. The round-trip hike will take 9-10 hours, passing through rugged terrain and beautiful landscapes. After exploring the lake and its surroundings, return to Khopra Ridge for a well-deserved rest.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse in Khopra Ridge
Walking Time: 9-10 hours
Day 6: Trek from Khopra Ridge to Swanta Village (2214m/7263ft)
Begin your descent towards Swanta Village, a charming settlement surrounded by terraced farms. The trek takes you through forests and offers stunning views of Dhaulagiri. The day’s walk is easier as you descend from the high ridges into the lower elevations. Swanta is a quiet, peaceful village where you can relax and enjoy a cultural experience with the local people.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse in Swanta Village
Walking Time: 5-6 hours
Day 7: Trek from Swanta Village to Ghorepani (2858m/9376ft)
Continue your trek towards Ghorepani, one of the most popular trekking stops in the Annapurna region. The trail passes through beautiful rhododendron forests, and you’ll cross suspension bridges over rivers and streams. Ghorepani is a well-known stop on the Annapurna Circuit and Poon Hill trek, where trekkers gather to witness stunning Himalayan views.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse in Ghorepani
Walking Time: 4-5 hours
Day 8: Hike to Poon Hill for Sunrise – Trek to Hile and Drive to Pokhara
Wake up early for a 30-minute hike to Poon Hill (3210m) to witness the iconic sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The panoramic view of the Himalayas bathed in golden sunlight is unforgettable. After soaking in the beauty of the mountains, descend back to Ghorepani for breakfast. Continue trekking downhill to Hile, where a vehicle will drive you back to Pokhara.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara
Walking Time: 4-5 hours, followed by a 2-3 hour drive
Day 9: Fly Back to Kathmandu – Free Time for Shopping
After breakfast, take a 25-minute flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you’ll have free time to explore Kathmandu or go shopping in Thamel for souvenirs. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with your guide and fellow trekkers to celebrate the successful completion of your trek.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Kathmandu
Day 10: Departure from Kathmandu
On your final day, a Peregrine Treks representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. If you wish to extend your trip to other destinations in Nepal, Tibet, or Bhutan, additional travel arrangements can be made.
Meals: Breakfast