Introduction

The Annapurna region has many different trekking destinations. Trekkers seeking solitude and pristine natural beauty can embark on this trek. Unlike the more popular trekking routes in Nepal, Khayer Lake remains relatively unexplored, making it an ideal destination for those looking to experience the raw, untouched wilderness of the Himalayas. This trek takes you through dense rhododendron forests, remote villages, and alpine meadows.

Perched at an altitude of 4660 meters, Khayer Lake is a tranquil, turquoise sanctuary at the heart of the Annapurna Conservation Area. The Annapurna Khayer trek offers a mix of cultural and natural experiences, with stunning views of the Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Machhapuchhare. As you cross 4000 meters, the landscape changes to dry, barren terrain. Many people also visit this place to worship at the Baraha Temple. In this article, we’ll explore this amazing trek in detail.

Some Facts about the Khayer Lake Trek:

  1. Maximum Elevation: 4660 meters.
  2. Trek’s Duration: 10-12 days.
  3. Trek’s Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
  4. Best Times: Spring and Autumn
  5. Starting Point: Pokhara
  6. Trek’s Destination: Khayer Lake

Highlights of this trek:

  • Ghandruk Village: To start the trek, you must get to Ghandruk village. The drive from Pokhara to Ghandruk is scenic and full of lush green hills. Along the way, you can see the amazing panoramas of the Annapurna Range. The rich culture and traditions of Ghandruk village can also be explored.
  • Off-The-Beaten Path: This is one of the less crowded trails in the entire Annapurna region. Trekkers can enjoy solitude and tranquility throughout the trek, and this less-traveled path is also naturally gifted.
  • Panoramic Mountain Views: You can glimpse many mountains towering over 7000 meters. Some famous mountains include Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Machchapuchhre, and other mountains of the Annapurna Massif.
  • Serene Khayer Lake: This stunning lake at 4660 meters is one of the main highlights of this trek.

Itinerary:

  1. Day 1- Pokhara to Ghandruk and trek to Tadapani: On the first day of your trek, drive from Pokhara to Ghandruk in a jeep. It is a beautiful village inhabited by Gurung people. From Ghandruk, start walking towards Tadapani. As you ascend, you’ll walk through dense forests with majestic views of the Annapurna Range. You’ll stay overnight at Tadapani.
  2. Day 2- Trek from Tadapani to Dobato: On the second day, the views get even better as you’ll glimpse the stunning Dhaulagiri range from the trail. You’ll encounter waterfalls, small settlements, and cross streams along the way. You’ll stay the night at Dobato.
  3. Day 3- Dobato to Chistibang: On the way to Chistibang, you’ll quickly gain altitude as there are some steep ascents along the way. You will pass by several waterfalls, suspension bridges, and meadows. You can also worship at a temple on the way to Chistibang. You’ll spend the night at one of the community lodges at Chistibang.
  4. Day 4- Trek from Chistibang to Khopra: This day’s hike will be roughly around 5-6 hrs. You’ll reach Khopra Ridge at an altitude of 3660 meters. You can also visit a temple on the way to Khopra. You’ll stay the night here.
  5.  Day 5- Trek from Khopra to Khayer and back to Khopra: This is by far the toughest section of your trek, where you’ll quickly gain altitude. You’ll walk around 3 hours to reach Khayer Lake. After spending some time at the lake, you’ll descend back to Khopra, where you’ll stay the night.
Khayer Lake
Khayer Lake (Source: Facebook)

 

This is your Trek’s Mid-point:

  1. Day 6- Khopra Ridge to Swanta: On this day, you’ll descend through oak and rhododendron forests. You’ll descend the same route you took to ascend. You can sense local people’s warmth and stay the night at Swanta.
  2. Day 7- Swanta to Ghorepani: On this day, you’ll descend back to yet another famous tourist spot around Pokhara, Ghorepani. The trail passes through dense forested parts on the outskirts of Pokhara. You’ll stay the night at Ghorepani.
  3. Day 8- Trek from Ghorepani to Tikedhunga: An early morning hike to Tikedhunga will be an easy one. The descent is not too strenuous, and you can enjoy the beautiful views of the mountains of this region. You’ll stay overnight at Tikedhunga.
  4. Day 9- Trek to Nayapool and drive back to Pokhara: On the last day of your trek, you’ll hike down to Nayapool, catch a vehicle, and drive back to Pokhara.

Some Practical Info:

Best Time For This Trek:

The two best times for this trek are Autumn and Spring. These seasons bless trekkers with the best views of the entire region. The weather is also stable, and the trail is easily navigable around these times.

What To Pack:

Carry plenty of food and water supplies that will last you the entire trek. Acquire all the necessary permits needed to trek in this region. Carry a good backpack with enough storage. Also, carry plenty of medicines with you.

Also Read: Choose The Perfect Season: Trekking In Nepal