Khopra Ridge & Khair Lake Trekking

Adventure on the hidden pockets of Annapurna Himalayas

No-shopping | Group Tour

Overview

The Khopra Ridge & Khair Lake Trek takes you on an unforgettable journey through the hidden gems of the Annapurna Himalayas, far from the crowds of the main trekking routes. This off-the-beaten-path adventure combines breathtaking mountain views, cultural immersion, and a peaceful, remote atmosphere, making it ideal for trekkers seeking a unique experience.

Offered by Eco Himalaya Treks & Travels, this trek extends beyond the popular Ghorepani-Poon Hill route, guiding you into the untouched beauty of the Annapurna region. With a blend of well-known trails and quieter, less-visited paths, it provides a perfect balance of adventure and peace for nature lovers.

After witnessing the iconic sunrise at Poon Hill, the trek takes you to Khopra Ridge and Khair Lake. Here, you’ll marvel at panoramic views of snow-covered peaks and serene mountain landscapes while enjoying the solitude of this remote area. Khair Lake, a sacred site for locals, is a highlight of the journey, offering a meaningful connection to both nature and spirituality.

By the end of the trek, you’ll have explored the best of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri regions, soaking in their natural beauty and peaceful energy. Returning to Pokhara, you can rest, reflect, and celebrate the sense of accomplishment from this extraordinary adventure.

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in Kathmandu

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (1400m), you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. You’ll have the day free to relax and adjust to the altitude. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 2Kathmandu to Pokhara (820m)

After breakfast, travel by road to Pokhara, a journey that takes approximately 6-7 hours, or opt for a 25-minute flight. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you can explore the lakeside city, visiting Phewa Lake and Sarangkot for stunning views. Overnight stay in Pokhara.

Day 3Pokhara to Tikhedhunga (1540m)

You will take a 1-hour drive to Nayapul (1070m) and begin your trek to Tikhedhunga (1540m), which will take about 4-5 hours. The trek passes through picturesque villages and terraced fields. Overnight stay in Tikhedhunga.

Day 4Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2850m)

Today’s trek is a steady uphill climb, taking 6-7 hours, through beautiful rhododendron forests and charming villages. You will reach Ghorepani (2850m), offering spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Overnight stay in Ghorepani.

Day 5Ghorepani to Poon Hill (3210m) & Tadapani (2630m)

Start early to hike up to Poon Hill (3210m) for an unforgettable sunrise over the mountains. The hike to Poon Hill takes about 1-2 hours. Afterward, descend and continue your trek to Tadapani (2630m), a 4-5 hour journey through lush forests. Overnight stay in Tadapani.

Day 6Tadapani to Sinuwa (2360m)

Today, you will trek for about 5-6 hours, passing through forests and local villages as you descend to Sinuwa (2360m). Along the way, you’ll be treated to views of the surrounding peaks and landscapes. Overnight stay in Sinuwa.

Day 7Sinuwa to Deurali (3230m)

The trek from Sinuwa to Deurali takes about 6-7 hours. As you ascend, you will trek through bamboo forests and alpine meadows. Deurali (3230m) is the last stop before reaching the higher altitude of Machapuchare Base Camp. Overnight stay in Deurali.

Day 8 Deurali to Machapuchare Base Camp (3700m)

You will trek for 4-5 hours today to reach Machapuchare Base Camp (3700m). This is a steep climb, but the panoramic views of the surrounding peaks make it worthwhile. Overnight stay at Machapuchare Base Camp.

Day 9Machapuchare Base Camp to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m)

Today, you will trek for 3-4 hours to Annapurna Base Camp (4130m), where you will be surrounded by towering peaks like Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. This is a day to relax and take in the incredible scenery. Overnight stay at Annapurna Base Camp.

Day 10Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo (2310m)

Descend from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo (2310m) in 6-7 hours. The trek takes you through forests and villages, providing a different perspective of the surroundings. Overnight stay in Bamboo.

Day 11Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1760m)

From Bamboo, you will trek for 5-6 hours to Jhinu Danda (1760m), passing through rhododendron forests and terraced fields. Jhinu is known for its hot springs, perfect for a relaxing dip after a long day of trekking. Overnight stay in Jhinu Danda.

Day 12Jhinu Danda to Nayapul (1070m) and Drive to Pokhara

After a 4-5 hour trek to Nayapul, you will drive back to Pokhara in about 1 hour. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you’ll have the afternoon free to relax or explore more of the city. Overnight stay in Pokhara.

Day 13Pokhara to Kathmandu

Travel back to Kathmandu by road (6-7 hours) or take a 25-minute flight. Once in Kathmandu, you’ll have time to explore the city’s markets, temples, and shops. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 14Departure

On your final day, you’ll be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. You will leave with unforgettable memories of your trek in the Annapurna region.

Whats Included

Whats Excluded

Important News

Reviews

Booking

Place Location

Booking

Major Highlights

Adventure Beyond the Mainstream: The trek begins along popular routes but quickly veers into isolated, scenic high ridges and hidden areas of the Annapurna region.
Breathtaking Natural Beauty: The trek takes you through misty rhododendrons and pine forests, offering stunning views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Vara Shikar (Annapurna Fang), and Annapurna South.
Scenic Sunrise at Poon Hill: Start the journey with an early hike to Poon Hill for spectacular sunrise views of some of the world’s highest peaks.
Khopra Ridge & Khair Lake: A visit to the pristine Khopra Ridge at 3,870 meters, followed by a day hike to the sacred Khair Lake, offers unmatched views and a deep connection with nature.

Short Trek Profile

Best Seasons

Spring (March to May): Ideal for wildflower blooms, including rhododendrons, and pleasant walking conditions.
Autumn (September to November): Clear skies and excellent trekking conditions with cooler temperatures, though days are shorter.
Monsoon (June to August): Best avoided due to heavy rainfall, making the trails slippery and less enjoyable.

What to Expect

Cultural Exploration: Encounter the Magar, Gurung, and Poon Magar people, who follow both Hinduism and Buddhism, adding rich cultural flavor to the trek.
Scenic Terrain: From lush forests and rhododendron valleys to the high Himalayas, you will enjoy diverse landscapes as you walk through rural farm villages, dense forests, and ridgelines offering panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

Extension trips

People with enough time in Nepal, can join in for various adventure sports activities in Pokhara. Likewise Paragliding, Ultra-Light Flight, Bungee Jumping,Zip Flyer, White water or scenic float Rafting. Other extension program is Mountain Biking for few days, and trip to Chitwan National Park for Wild-Life Safari.