STAY CONNECTED
Government Licence No.: 131483/071/072
STAY CONNECTED
August 5, 2019
The Khopra Ridge Trek, also known as the Khayer Lake Trek, is a relatively new trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is a less-crowded alternative to the popular Annapurna Base Camp and Ghorepani Poon Hill treks.
The Khopra Ridge Trek starts from Nayapul, and the trail passes through beautiful Gurung villages like Ghandruk, Tadapani, and Chistibung before reaching Khopra Ridge. The trek also includes a visit to Khayer Lake, a sacred lake located at an altitude of 4,660 meters.
The trek offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, including the spectacular views of Mt. Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). The trail also takes you through dense forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine trees, which are home to many species of birds and animals.
The trek is considered moderate to challenging and requires a good level of fitness. The best time to go for the Khopra Ridge Trek is from March to May and September to November when the weather is clear, and the skies are bright.
Annapurna Khopra Hill Trekking is one of the most beautiful treks in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is a moderate trek that takes you through picturesque villages, dense forests, and stunning landscapes. Here are 14 essential pieces of information you should know before embarking on the Annapurna Khopra Hill Trekking:
Breathtaking Mountain Views: The trek offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, including the majestic Mt. Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).
Overall, the Khopra Ridge (Khayer Lake) Trek is a great way to explore the natural beauty and cultural diversity of the Annapurna region of Nepal.
Trek starts: Nayapul
Trek ends: Tatopani
Per day walk: 5 to 7 hrs
Max. Altitude: 3640 m (Khopra ridge) & 4,660 m (Kayer Lake)
Trek style: Tea House & Community lodge base,
Trek difficulties: moderate,
Trek group size: 1 up to 20 People
Best seasons: Spring (March to May) & autumn (Sep. to Nov)
Essential permit: ACAP permit ($30 US) & TIMS ($20 US)- Per person
Risk of AMS: Very rare case
If you’re looking for an alternative to the popular and crowded trekking areas, the Khopra Trek is an excellent option. It’s a week-long trek on remote trails that offer magnificent views of the Annapurna region.
The Khopra Trek follows a small hiking route that takes you through the lush green valley located north of the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek. As you ascend gradually through the forest, you’ll reach Khopra Ridge, which offers stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna mountain range and is an excellent spot to see the sunrise.
The Khopra Trek is less touristy than other treks in the region, making it a peaceful and enjoyable experience. Along the trekking route, you’ll pass through pastoral villages, see colorful Buddhist prayer flags, rest at stone-made resting places, and witness dazzling mountain views. You’ll also have the opportunity to observe some rare wild animals, including the elusive Snow Leopard.
If you’re well-equipped with a tent and food, you can continue trekking further up from Khora Danda to make the trek even more enjoyable. However, it’s important to note that the Annapurna Khopra Hill trek is remote, and you’ll be walking through the forest most of the time. Therefore, it’s highly recommended to have an experienced guide and porter with you for your safety. They will also organize your food and accommodation before you reach the community lodges and tea houses each day.
Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu (1400m)
Day 2: Flight to Pokhara and same day trek to Hile/Thikhedunga (1500 m):25 Min Flight & 3 hrs walk
Day 3: Trek from Thikhedunga to Ghorepani(2875 m): 6 hrs walk
Day 4: Trek from Thikhedunga to Upper Chistibung(3000 m): 6 hrs walk
Day 5: Trek from Upper Chistibung to Khopra Danda(3640 m):3 hrs walk
Day 6: Rest day in Khopra Danda- you may explore beautiful Khyaer Lake(4660 m) and back to Khopra Danda: 8 hrs walk
Day 7: Khopra Danda to Tatopani(1250 m): 4 to 5 hrs walk
Day 8: Drive from Tatopani to Pokhara (850 m): 4 hrs drive
Day 9: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1400 m)
Day 10: Departure to homewards
Typically, the best seasons for trekking in Nepal are autumn and spring, with autumn (September to November) being the preferred season for various reasons.
The second most popular trekking season in Nepal is spring (March to May). This season offers a plethora of highlights from the Annapurna mountain region, including stunning views of the mountains and lush green landscapes.
A. Khopra trekking during spring season:
Spring is the second-best time for trekking and hiking in Nepal and is considered the best peak season in the country. The months of March and April are particularly ideal for trekking, with the season running from March to May.
February can also be a good month for trekking if you prefer peaceful trails, but it’s not considered part of the spring season.
Spring in Nepal is a dry season that follows winter, and it’s the second-best trekking season in the country. The season offers excellent visibility, good weather, clean trails, and no risk of avalanches and landslides, making it perfect for hiking and trekking.
During the spring season, the temperature in the mountains can rise up to about 25 degrees Celsius during the day, while at night and in the early morning, it can drop down to as low as 6 degrees Celsius.
The Khopra Trail is a moderate category trail, and trekking it during the spring season offers a fantastic walking experience. You’ll be treated to breathtaking views of colorful rhododendron flowers along the route, making your trip even more memorable.
B. Khopra trekking during autumn season:
Autumn is the ideal time of the year to visit Nepal for trekking and hiking, particularly from mid-September to the end of November. After the monsoon season, the skies are cleansed by the rain, resulting in enhanced visibility, which allows you to see the towering mountain peaks and rolling green hills.
In the autumn season, the rainfall ceases, and greenery can be found almost everywhere, providing excellent photography opportunities. The sky is often clear, and the waterfalls and rivers are filled with water, making them look bigger and clearer. Moreover, the temperature is relatively mild compared to other trekking seasons.
The temperature at Khopra during the autumn season is approximately 20 degrees Celsius during the day, while it drops to around 4 degrees Celsius at night and early morning.
Khopra Trek is a mesmerizing trail located in the Midwest north of Nepal, inside the breathtaking Annapurna conservation area. It is a moderate category trek, which offers the option of staying in tea houses and community lodges, adding a unique cultural aspect to your trekking experience.
Despite being off the beaten path, Khopra trek is an excellent budget-friendly option as accommodation and food are not too expensive. Although the prices may vary depending on the group size, package base trek, number of guides and porters, means of transportation to/from Pokhara, and total trekking days, in general, a week-long trek to Khopra Hill with all-inclusive prices per person costs approximately $690 USD. This amount covers your transportation from Kathmandu to Pokhara and back, three meals per day during the trek, community-based lodge accommodations, an experienced English-speaking guide, porters in a ratio of 2:1, guide salary, Pokhara and Kathmandu hotel stays as per the itinerary, pick and drop services, and TIMS & ACAP permits.
To make your trekking experience more comfortable and enjoyable, package-based trekking is highly recommended as it offers a stress-free and well-planned itinerary. Moreover, the breathtaking views and cultural experiences that Khopra trek has to offer are sure to make it a memorable journey.
Food and accommodation are essential components of any trekking or hiking trip, and this is especially true for the stunning Annapurna Khopra hill trek. This trail is known for being less touristy, and there are no roads or other means of supplying goods for visitors and locals. As a result, food needs to be ordered based on estimates to avoid waste.
During the Khopra hill trek, food is typically provided by tea houses and community lodges run by local people. There are several options for food, including Nepali, Indian, Tibetan, and Western cuisines. However, the cooking methods are based on local technology, so visitors should not expect professional cooking. Nevertheless, the food served is fresh and healthy.
The most common food items during the Khopra hill trekking include Mo:mo, fried rice, chapatti, boiled eggs, fried eggs, vegetable curry, egg curry, plain rice, Nepali Dal Bhat set, fried noodles, rolls, Gurung bread (deep-fried sugary bread), porridge, oat porridge, instant noodle soup, pasta, and more.
Due to the remote nature of the area, visitors are advised not to consume meat items as they are not fresh and need to be carried by porters for several days. The cost of meals during this trek is typically between 4 to $10 US per meal.
Similarly, the standard of accommodation during the Khopra hill trek is very basic, with limited lodges run by local people. Visitors will share accommodation with other trekkers, and the prices are relatively cheap, ranging from 3 USD to 10 USD.
It is important to note that visitors are recommended to bring their own power banks or solar chargers for their electrical devices or cameras, as there are few lodges on this trek that provide a place to charge, and it is usually a paid service.
The Khopra Hill Trek is considered a moderate level trek, and it can be completed by individuals with an average level of fitness. However, like any trek, it requires some preparation and training beforehand to ensure a comfortable and safe experience.
The trek is challenging due to the steep ascents and descents, especially during the first few days of the trek. Additionally, the high altitude and changing weather conditions can also pose a challenge. Therefore, it is crucial to acclimatize properly and take necessary precautions to prevent altitude sickness.
However, the Khopra Hill Trek is less crowded than other popular treks in the region, making it a great option for those seeking a more peaceful and off-the-beaten-path experience.
Overall, with the right preparation and a positive attitude, the Khopra Hill Trek can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience for trekkers of all levels.
The cost of a trekking trip typically depends on various factors such as your interests, budget, group size, level of services, standard of hotels and lodges, and number of staff for the trek. These factors can significantly influence the overall cost of the trek.
In the case of the Khopra trek, the cost is relatively affordable, with a budget of around $600 to $700 US per person. This price covers all essential things for the entire Khopra Hill trek, including meals, accommodations, transportation, hotels in the city, guide, porter, and permits.
For those who are unable to afford the all-inclusive package, hiring a guide can be a more cost-effective option. You can approach a trekking agency to obtain permits and pay for service charges, and then hire an experienced guide for the trek. The cost of hiring a guide is approximately $30 US per day, covering their food, salary, and accommodations.
Choosing a package for the Khopra trekking can be a stress-free and wonderful way to explore the area, as all aspects of the trek will be taken care of.
When preparing for the Khopra Hill trekking, it is important to pack wisely to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here are some essential items that you should consider taking with you:
Clothing: Depending on the season and time of the year, you should pack appropriate clothing for the trek. It is best to dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Comfortable hiking pants, t-shirts, a warm jacket, raincoat, and sturdy hiking boots are essential.
Trekking Gear: A good quality trekking backpack, trekking poles, and a comfortable sleeping bag are necessary for the trek. Additionally, a headlamp or flashlight, water bottle, and a first aid kit are important items to have.
Personal Hygiene: Pack personal hygiene items such as toilet paper, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and a small towel.
Miscellaneous: A camera to capture the scenic views, a power bank or solar charger to charge your electronic devices, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Snacks: It is always a good idea to pack some energy bars, nuts, and dry fruits to keep yourself fueled during the trek.
Cash: You should carry enough cash for any additional expenses, such as tips for your guide and porter or purchasing souvenirs.
If you need more information about trekking gears then here is the link.
Like any trekking experience, there are potential risks and hazards associated with the Khopra Hill trek. Here are some of the major risks that you should be aware of:
Altitude Sickness: The Khopra Hill trek reaches an elevation of over 3,600 meters (11,800 feet), which can cause altitude sickness. Symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. It is important to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and listen to your body to avoid altitude sickness.
Weather Conditions: The weather in the Khopra Hill region can be unpredictable, and sudden changes can occur. It is important to check the weather forecast before starting the trek and be prepared for rain, snow, and cold temperatures.
Trail Conditions: The trekking trail in the Khopra Hill region can be challenging, with steep ascents and descents, rocky terrain, and narrow paths. You should take caution and wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip.
Food and Water: As the food and water are sourced from the local lodges, it is important to ensure that the food and water are clean and safe to consume. Carry water purification tablets or a water filter to avoid any water-borne diseases.
Wildlife: The Khopra Hill trek is situated within a protected conservation area, which is home to several species of wildlife such as Himalayan Thar, Musk deer, and Himalayan black bear. It is important to take precautions and avoid any risky interactions with wildlife.
Emergency Services: The Khopra Hill trek is a remote trek, and access to emergency services can be limited. It is important to carry a first aid kit and be prepared to handle any medical emergencies. Additionally, it is advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergency medical evacuation.
By being prepared and taking necessary precautions, you can minimize the risks associated with the Khopra Hill trek and enjoy a safe and memorable trekking experience.
Altitude sickness is a serious concern, particularly when trekking alone without proper medication or insurance. Engaging a local guide and obtaining comprehensive insurance coverage can mitigate this risk.
Fortunately, the Khopra Hill trek is not particularly risky for altitude sickness since the maximum elevation is below the threshold for potential AMS. Nevertheless, it is important to be properly equipped with the necessary gear and medications and to follow some key tips for the trek:
While it is possible to trek Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake without a guide or porter, it is highly recommended to hire one or both for a more enjoyable and safe experience.
Here are some reasons why:
Navigation: The trek can be challenging and the trails may not always be well-marked. A guide can help you navigate the trail, which can reduce the risk of getting lost.
Safety: Trekking in the mountains always involves some level of risk, and having a guide who knows the terrain and the local conditions can help you avoid dangerous situations. A porter can also help carry your gear, making it easier for you to focus on the trek and reducing the risk of injury.
Cultural Experience: A local guide can provide valuable insights into the local culture and customs, and can help facilitate interactions with locals along the way.
Support the Local Economy: Hiring a guide or porter supports the local economy and provides employment opportunities for people in the area.
Overall, having a guide or porter can greatly enhance your trekking experience in Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake by providing safety, navigation, cultural immersion, and support for the local economy.
Safe Holiday Adventure Pvt. Ltd.
P.O.Box: 20065
Nayabazar-16,Khusibu,Kathmandu, Nepal
Cell: 00977 9849116284
Email: info@safeholidayadventure.com,
safeholidayadventure@gmail.com
We are associated with
We accept
