Introduction

Famous treks such as the Annapurna and Everest Base Camp have been on many people’s bucket lists for decades. If you’re an outsider, these two places definitely come to mind. Part of the Annapurna Dhaulagiri community trek, there is a lesser-known trek in this region, the Khopra Ridge Trek. This underrated gem near Pokhara is a must-visit. This off-the-beaten-path trek provides panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountains.

Unlike its more popular counterparts, the Khopra Ridge Trek offers a quieter and more intimate experience, making it ideal for adventurers seeking solitude and tranquility. You’ll also see glorious mountains like Mt Machapuchare. On this trek, you will pass forests, pastures, and small villages to a stunning lake and the high Khopra Ridge. Khopra Ridge is 3,600m / 12,007 ft in height. Whether you like to trek often or are a beginner setting off on your first trek, this trek is ideal for everyone. However, ideal physical fitness is needed to complete this trek.

Some Quick Info On This Trek:

  • Location: Annapurna Region, Gandaki Province, Nepal
  • Distance: 60 km round trip
  • Duration: 7-9 days (depending on your itinerary)
  • Maximum Elevation: 3600 meters
  • Trek’s Difficulty: Moderate-Challenging
  • Trail: Out and Back
  • Permits: TIMS card

Khopra Ridge’s Itinerary:

  1. Day 1: Reach Pokhara From Kathmandu—On the first day, you’ll reach Pokhara from Kathmandu. The distance is around 210 km, and the journey will take 7 hours. If you choose to fly to Pokhara, the flight is 35 minutes long. Along the way, enjoy the scenic views.
  2. Day 2: Drive from Pokhara to Kimsee & Trek to Ghandruk: You’ll drive to Kimsee and then trek to Ghandruk. The drive will take 2-3 hours, and the trek can be completed in 1-2 hours. The trekking distance is around 4 km.
  3. Day 3: Trek from Ghandruk to Tadapani: This day’s trekking distance is 6.4 km and will take 5 hours to complete.
  4. Day 4: Trek From Tadapani to Dobato: This day’s trekking distance is 6.2 km and will take 6 hours to complete. At the end of the fourth day, you’ll reach 11,225 ft.
  5. Day 5: Trek from Dobato to Chistibang: During this part of the trek, you’ll pass Muldai top. This is a relatively longer hike; you’ll complete this stretch in 7 hours.
  6. Day 6: Chistibang To Khopra Ridge: This is the last stretch of the trek, which will take you to the destination, Khopra Ridge. It will take you 3 hours to complete this 3.5 km trail.
  7. Day 7: Trek from Khopra Ridge to Paudwar: On this part of the trek, you’ll cross George Point and descend towards Pudwar.
  8. Day 8: Paudwar to Tadapani & Drive to Pokhara: This 4.8 km part of the trail can be easily completed in 3 hours. From Tadapani, you’ll drive to Pokhara.
  9.  Day 9: Drive From Pokhara to Kathmandu: On the last day of the trek, you’ll drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu.

Best Time To Trek In This Region

Spring (April)

The daytime temperature stays between 20 and 24 degrees Celsius. At night, it drops to 10 to 5 degrees Celsius. You may find some patches of snow at higher altitudes around April. However, Spring is pretty moist and chilly. There can be occasional rain during this period. This is a favorable time frame for trekking to the Khopra Ridge.

Autumn (October)

The monsoon will have ended around this time, and the conditions will be pretty dry. If there is any rain around this time, the temperature will drop significantly. Nights in Autumn get chilly. In October, the temperature dips to 0° C. This is an equally favorable time for trekking around the Annapurna Region.

Khopra Region
Khopra Region, Myagdi (Source: Facebook)

What essentials should you pack?

  • Sturdy Trekking Shoes: The Khopra Ridge trek requires sturdy trekking shoes with good grip and ankle support. These shoes will enhance your experience and make it much easier to walk long distances.
  • Warm Clothes: Clothes are probably the most important thing to carry. It is advised to wear layered clothes on such treks, as layers give you maximum protection from all elements. Insulating cotton clothes are perfect for such conditions.
  • Backpack: A spacious backpack is key for treks. For a trek like Khopra Ridge, you need a 50-60 liter backpack. Ensure your backpack has good hip and shoulder support and quick-access pockets.
  • Trekking accessories: Carry trekking poles, sunglasses, hats, raincoats, and good trekking pants. These accessories will assist you if conditions worsen.
  • Food and Water: Carry ample food and water supplies for the trek. These essentials should last you the entire trip.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a lesser-known off-the-beaten-path trek around the majestic Annapurna Region, then the Khopra Ridge trek is the one for you. This stunning trek offers majestic views of the surroundings and is ideally located. If you’re planning your next trek, consider this underrated yet beautiful trek over the traditional famous treks that are overcrowded all year long.

You may also like: A Guide To The Majestic Saipal Base Camp Trek