Budget
USD 1590
Per Person
Rating
No review has been posted yet
Duration
17 Days
Trip Overview
The Khayer Lake (Khopra Danda) Trek is a stunning off-the-beaten-path Himalayan journey in the Annapurna region, offering spectacular mountain views, peaceful trails, and a sacred alpine lake experience. This trek is known for its quiet environment, community-based lodges, and breathtaking ridge-top scenery, making it one of Nepal’s best alternatives to the busier Annapurna routes.
The highlight of the trek is Khayer Lake (4,600 m), a sacred glacial lake located beneath the Annapurna massif. The journey also includes panoramic views of Himalayan giants such as Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and Nilgiri ranges. This trek is ideal for trekkers seeking solitude, raw nature, and cultural authenticity away from crowded trails.
Geography and Landscape
The Khayer Lake (Khopra Danda) Trek is located in the Annapurna region within Annapurna Conservation Area. The route typically begins from Nayapul or Ghandruk and ascends through traditional villages and dense forests before reaching the Khopra Danda ridge.
The landscape is extremely diverse and visually striking. Lower sections feature terraced farmland, subtropical vegetation, and river valleys. As the trail climbs higher, it passes through dense rhododendron and oak forests, which are especially beautiful during spring when the hillsides bloom with vibrant flowers.
One of the main highlights is the Khopra Ridge (Khopra Danda), a spectacular viewpoint offering uninterrupted panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. From this ridge, trekkers can see a wide Himalayan horizon with fewer crowds compared to other popular viewpoints like Poon Hill.
The trek then continues toward Khayer Lake, a high-altitude sacred site surrounded by rugged cliffs and alpine terrain. The lake is considered holy by local communities, and its remote location adds to its spiritual and natural significance. The final section involves a challenging hike across rocky terrain and high ridges, rewarding trekkers with a pristine and peaceful alpine environment.
Climate and Best Time to Trek
The best seasons for the Khayer Lake (Khopra Danda) Trek are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). These months provide stable weather, clear skies, and excellent visibility of the Himalayan peaks.
Spring is especially beautiful due to blooming rhododendron forests that color the trails in red, pink, and white. Autumn offers crisp air and the clearest mountain views after the monsoon season, making it the most popular and reliable trekking period.
Winter (December–February) is colder and can bring snow to higher elevations such as Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake, making the trek more challenging but rewarding for experienced trekkers. The monsoon season (June–August) is less suitable due to rain, slippery trails, and limited visibility.
Overall, autumn is considered the best season for safety, comfort, and panoramic Himalayan views.
People and Culture
The Khopra Danda region is inhabited mainly by Gurung and Magar communities, known for their hospitality, traditional lifestyles, and deep cultural ties to the Himalayas. The trek is also a model of community-based tourism, with locally operated teahouses supporting village development.
Villages along the route, such as Ghandruk and Swanta, offer authentic cultural experiences including traditional stone houses, terraced farming, prayer flags, and local monasteries. Among these, Ghandruk is particularly significant, showcasing Gurung heritage and offering excellent mountain views.
Trekkers experience warm hospitality in community lodges, where local families share traditional food, stories, and cultural insights. The combination of sacred lake, peaceful ridge trekking, and authentic village culture makes the Khayer Lake (Khopra Danda) Trek one of the most rewarding hidden gems in the Annapurna region.
Package Highlights:
- Sacred Khayer Lake (4,660m) beneath Annapurna South
- Sunrise from Khopra Ridge – spectacular Himalayan panorama
- Views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Machhapuchhre
- Gurung and Magar culture with warm local hospitality
- Peaceful, less-crowded trekking trails
- Traditional villages, yak pastures, and rhododendron forests
- Wildlife sightings including Himalayan tahr and musk deer
- Optional extensions to Poon Hill or Annapurna Base Camp
Book This Trip
Trip Information
Start : Kathmandu
Finish : Kathmandu
Difficulty :
Moderate
Max Altitude : 4660m
Group Size : 17 People
Season : SEP-NOV, MAR-MAY
Trip Gallery
Trip Itinerary
Altitude: 1,400m
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, where you’ll be warmly welcomed by your guide or a representative from Nord Extreme and transferred to your hotel in Thamel, Kathmandu’s vibrant tourist district.
Depending on your arrival time, you may explore the bustling local streets, trekking gear shops, cafés, or nearby heritage temples. In the evening, attend a short introductory briefing about the trek and enjoy your first night in Nepal.
Accomadation: Hotel
Place to visit: Nepal
Meals: Dinner
Altitude: 1,400m
Trek duration: 2–4 hrs
Today is dedicated to final trekking preparations and official permit arrangements for the Annapurna region. Our Nord Extreme team will assist you with all required documentation, including trekking permits and entry procedures.
You will attend a detailed pre-trek briefing covering the itinerary, altitude awareness, weather conditions, safety protocols, and trail expectations.
A complete gear check will also be conducted to ensure you are fully prepared for the journey ahead. Any missing equipment can be rented or purchased in Thamel. The remainder of the day is free for relaxation or sightseeing around Kathmandu.
Place to visit: Nepal
Meals: Breakfast
Altitude: 820m
Trek duration: 25 min flight / 6–7 hrs drive
After breakfast, travel to Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurna region. The scenic drive follows the Trishuli and Marshyangdi Rivers through hills, villages, and terraced landscapes, while the short flight offers breathtaking Himalayan panoramas.
Upon arrival in Pokhara, enjoy beautiful views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) reflected in Phewa Lake. Spend the evening relaxing at your lakeside hotel or exploring the vibrant lakeside area.
Accomadation: Hotel
Place to visit: Nepal
Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Altitude: 1,940m
Trek duration: 4–5 hrs
Drive approximately 1.5 hours to Nayapul, the starting point of your trek. Begin hiking through subtropical forests, terraced rice fields, and charming mountain villages.
Reach Ghandruk, a picturesque Gurung settlement known for its traditional stone houses, rich culture, and magnificent mountain scenery. You may also visit the local Gurung museum to learn about the history and traditions of the region.
Accomadation: Tea House
Place to visit: Annapurna Region
Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Altitude: 2,630m
Trek duration: 4–5 hrs
Today’s trail climbs steadily through dense oak and rhododendron forests filled with birdsong and occasional wildlife sightings. During spring, the forests bloom with colorful rhododendrons, creating one of the most scenic sections of the trek.
Arrive at Tadapani, a peaceful ridge-top settlement offering spectacular views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre.
Accomadation: Tea House
Place to visit: Annapurna Region
Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Altitude: 3,420m
Trek duration: 5–6 hrs
Leave the main trekking route behind and follow a quieter trail toward Dobato. The path winds through enchanting forests, yak grazing areas, and alpine terrain with increasingly open mountain views.
Optional evening hike to Muldai View Point (3,637m), one of the finest panoramic viewpoints in the Annapurna region, offering incredible 360-degree views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Accomadation: Tea House
Place to visit: Annapurna Region
Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Altitude: 3,020m
Trek duration: 4 hrs
A shorter trekking day allows your body additional time to acclimatize. The trail passes through highland vegetation, dwarf bamboo forests, and peaceful yak pastures.
Chistibang is a quiet seasonal herding area with simple teahouses and beautiful sunset views over surrounding peaks.
Accomadation: Tea House
Place to visit: Annapurna Region
Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Altitude: 3,660m
Trek duration: 3–4 hrs
Today is one of the highlights of the trek as you ascend to the dramatic Khopra Ridge. The trail offers breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Nilgiri, and Tukuche Peak throughout the climb.
Arrive at the Khopra Community Lodge, perched high above the valleys with panoramic mountain scenery in every direction. Spend the afternoon relaxing and enjoying one of the best ridge-top settings in Nepal.
Accomadation: Tea House
Place to visit: Annapurna Region
Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Altitude: 4,660m
Trek duration: 8–9 hrs
Begin early for the challenging but rewarding hike to Khayer Lake, a sacred alpine lake located beneath Annapurna South. The trail traverses rocky high-altitude terrain and remote alpine meadows.
Khayer Lake is an important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists and offers a peaceful spiritual atmosphere surrounded by towering snowy peaks. After spending time at the lake, return to Khopra Danda for overnight stay.
Accomadation: Tea House
Place to visit: Annapurna Region
Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Altitude: 2,200m
Trek duration: 5 hrs
Descend through alpine forests, rhododendron groves, and terraced farmland to the traditional Magar village of Swanta.
The village is known for its warm hospitality and local cheese production. You may visit a nearby cheese factory and learn about daily life in this remote Himalayan settlement.
Accomadation: Tea House
Place to visit: Annapurna Region
Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Altitude: 2,050m
Trek duration: 5–6 hrs
Continue descending through lush forests and traditional farming communities. Along the trail, pass watermills, grazing livestock, and scenic terraced hillsides that showcase rural Himalayan life.
Arrive at Ulleri, a charming hillside village famous for its long stone staircases and mountain views.
Accomadation: Tea House
Place to visit: Annapurna Region
Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Altitude: 820m
Trek duration: 5 hrs trek + 1.5 hrs drive
Your final trekking day follows forested trails and riverside paths as you gradually descend toward Nayapul.
Upon arrival, drive back to Pokhara and check into your hotel. Enjoy a hot shower, lakeside walk, or celebratory dinner after completing the trek.
Accomadation: Hotel
Place to visit: Nepal
Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Altitude: 1,400m
Trek duration: 25 min flight / 6–7 hrs drive
Return to Kathmandu either by scenic flight or overland drive. After arriving in the capital, enjoy free time for shopping, sightseeing, or visiting cultural landmarks such as Durbar Square, Boudhanath, or Pashupatinath Temple.
Accomadation: Hotel
Place to visit: Nepal
Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Altitude: 1,400m
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. Depart Nepal with unforgettable memories of Himalayan landscapes, remote villages, and authentic mountain culture.
Place to visit: Nepal
Meals: Breakfast
Cost Includes
1. Transportations
- Private/tourist vehicles for airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu.
- Private/tourist vehicles transfer as per itinerary to access the trailheads.
- Domestic flight included for access to the trekking starting & ending point.
2. Accommodation & Meals
- 3 Nights 3 star hotel in Kathmandu with bed & breakfast basis.
- 1 Night 3 star hotel in Pokhara with bed & breakfast basis.
- All Meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner with tea & coffee) during the trekking Period.
3. Permits
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permits.
- Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) permits.
4. Guide & Staff
- Professional and experience License holder trekking guide salary & insurance.
- Porter salary, equipments & insurance.
- First aid medical kit for emergency support.
1. Transportations
- Private/tourist vehicles for airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu.
- Private/tourist vehicles transfer as per itinerary to access the trailheads.
- Domestic flight included for access to the trekking starting & ending point.
2. Accommodation & Meals
- 3 Nights 3 star hotel in Kathmandu with bed & breakfast basis.
- 1 Night 3 star hotel in Pokhara with bed & breakfast basis.
- All Meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner with tea & coffee) during the trekking Period.
3. Permits
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permits.
- Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) permits.
4. Guide & Staff
- Professional and experience License holder trekking guide salary & insurance.
- Porter salary, equipments & insurance.
- First aid medical kit for emergency support.
Cost Excludes
1. International Flights
- Airfare from your home country to Nepal (Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu).
- Return airfare from Nepal (Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu) to your home country.
2. Visa Fees
- Nepal entry visa fee for entering Nepal (available on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, or through a Nepalese embassy).
3. Travel Insurance (Mandatory)
- Comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, emergency medical treatment, helicopter evacuation, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen circumstances.
4. Personal Expenses
- Tips, gifts, and souvenirs for trekking guides and porters.
- Personal trekking equipment and gear.
- Charges for lodge Wi-Fi, hot showers, battery charging, and laundry services.
5. Meals & Beverages
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and other locations where accommodation is provided in 3-star category hotels.
- Soft drinks, bottled water, alcoholic beverages, and snacks consumed during meals
1. International Flights
- Airfare from your home country to Nepal (Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu).
- Return airfare from Nepal (Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu) to your home country.
2. Visa Fees
- Nepal entry visa fee for entering Nepal (available on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, or through a Nepalese embassy).
3. Travel Insurance (Mandatory)
- Comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, emergency medical treatment, helicopter evacuation, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen circumstances.
4. Personal Expenses
- Tips, gifts, and souvenirs for trekking guides and porters.
- Personal trekking equipment and gear.
- Charges for lodge Wi-Fi, hot showers, battery charging, and laundry services.
5. Meals & Beverages
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and other locations where accommodation is provided in 3-star category hotels.
- Soft drinks, bottled water, alcoholic beverages, and snacks consumed during meals
Trip Date And Time
We'll Be There, Like We've Been There Before
|
Start |
End |
Trip Cost |
Action |
Enquire |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 Nov, 2026 | 01 Dec, 2026 | 1590 | Book Now | |
| 09 Nov, 2026 | 25 Nov, 2026 | 1590 | Book Now | |
| 01 Nov, 2026 | 17 Nov, 2026 | 1590 | Book Now | |
| 27 Oct, 2026 | 12 Nov, 2026 | 1590 | Book Now | |
| 20 Oct, 2026 | 05 Nov, 2026 | 1590 | Book Now | |
| 13 Oct, 2026 | 29 Oct, 2026 | 1590 | Book Now | |
| 04 Oct, 2026 | 20 Oct, 2026 | 1590 | Book Now | |
| 29 Sep, 2026 | 15 Oct, 2026 | 1590 | Book Now | |
| 22 Sep, 2026 | 08 Oct, 2026 | 1590 | Book Now | |
| 14 Sep, 2026 | 30 Sep, 2026 | 1590 | Book Now | |
| 06 Sep, 2026 | 22 Sep, 2026 | 1590 | Book Now | |
| 31 Aug, 2026 | 16 Sep, 2026 | 1590 | Book Now |
Essential Information
Accommodation
Accommodation is provided in community-run teahouses and eco-lodges, especially along the Khopra Ridge section.
Lower villages such as Ghandruk, Tadapani, and Bayeli Kharka offer basic but comfortable lodges. At Khopra Danda and higher sections toward Khayer Lake, accommodation becomes very simple due to remoteness and limited infrastructure.
Rooms are typically twin-sharing with basic bedding and shared bathroom facilities. In peak season, space can be limited.
Meals
A full-board meal system (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) is provided throughout the trek. Meals are locally prepared and focus on energy-rich trekking food.
Typical menu options include:
- Traditional Dal Bhat set meals
- Noodles, pasta, and fried rice
- Soups, potatoes, and seasonal vegetables
- Eggs, pancakes, and Tibetan bread
- Local herbal tea and hot beverages
Food variety becomes limited at higher elevations, especially on the Khopra Ridge section.
Difficulty & Physical Requirements
The Khopra Danda – Khayer Lake Trek is classified as moderate to moderately strenuous, suitable for trekkers with good fitness and some hiking experience.
Daily trekking ranges from 5 to 7 hours, with steep ascents, forest trails, and a challenging day hike to Khayer Lake.
The lake excursion involves high-altitude walking above 4,500m and requires good endurance.
Permits
Required permits include:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
All permits are arranged by the trekking agency.
Best Season
- Spring (March–May): Rhododendron forests in full bloom and clear mountain views
- Autumn (September–November): Best weather and visibility conditions
- Winter (December–February): Cold but very scenic with snow-covered landscapes
- Monsoon (June–August): Not recommended due to slippery trails and leeches
Transportation & Access
The trek typically begins with a drive from Pokhara to Nayapul or Ghandruk, followed by trekking through forested ridges toward Khopra Danda.
Pokhara serves as the main gateway city for access to the route.
The Khayer Lake side trip is usually a full-day hike from Khopra Danda.
Safety & Acclimatization
Although the main trek is moderate altitude, the excursion to Khayer Lake reaches high elevation and requires proper pacing.
Key considerations include:
- Gradual ascent through forest and ridge trails
- Acclimatization at Khopra Danda before lake hike
- Staying hydrated and maintaining steady pace
- Awareness of weather changes at high altitude
Guides ensure safe navigation, especially on the lake trail.
Travel Insurance
Recommended travel insurance should include:
- Trekking coverage up to at least 5,000m
- Emergency medical treatment
- Helicopter evacuation coverage
- Trip cancellation and accident protection
Additional Information
Guide & Porter Services
Licensed guides are highly recommended for navigation and cultural interpretation, especially for the Khayer Lake side trip.
Porters are available to carry luggage, making the ridge trek more comfortable.
Cultural & Natural Highlights
The Khopra Danda – Khayer Lake Trek is known for its peaceful environment and dramatic scenery:
- Panoramic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges
- Stunning ridge walk along Khopra Danda
- Sacred alpine lake of Khayer Lake
- Traditional Gurung and Magar villages
- Rhododendron and alpine forests
- Less crowded alternative to ABC trek
- Community-based eco-lodge experience
- Sunrise and sunset Himalayan viewpoints
Essential Equipment
Recommended trekking gear includes:
- Comfortable trekking boots
- Layered clothing system
- Warm jacket for Khopra Danda and lake hike
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Gloves, hat, and sunglasses
- Trekking poles (important for lake ascent)
- Daypack (30–40L)
- Basic first aid kit and personal medication
Communication & Connectivity
Mobile network coverage is available in lower villages but becomes weak or unavailable at Khopra Danda and towards Khayer Lake.
Wi-Fi is limited and generally unavailable in higher sections.
Why Choose the Khopra Danda – Khayer Lake Trek?
This trek is perfect for travelers seeking peace, scenery, and off-the-beaten-path adventure:
- Less crowded alternative to Annapurna Base Camp
- Spectacular ridge views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri
- Sacred high-altitude lake experience at Khayer Lake
- Community-based eco-lodge trekking model
- Ideal for moderate-level trekkers
- Beautiful sunrise and sunset viewpoints
- Rich cultural experience in Gurung and Magar villages
- One of Nepal’s best hidden trekking gems
USD 1590 / person
See group booking discount- No. of person Price per person
- 1 USD 1590.00
- 2-3 USD 1280.00
- 4-7 USD 1190.00
- 8-12 USD 1130.00
- 13-17 USD 1090.00
The price may varies
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