Poon Hill's famous sunrise, then deep into wild Annapurna ridgelines the crowds never reach.
The Khopra Danda Trek is the finest off-the-beaten-path alternative to the Annapurna Base Camp and Poon Hill routes — delivering equally spectacular mountain panoramas of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Annapurna South from a remote, rarely-crowded ridgeline at 3,660 m, combined with the optional high-altitude pilgrimage to the sacred Khayer Lake (4,660 m). Beginning with the iconic Poon Hill sunrise and ending with a cultural finish in Ghandruk, this 9-day itinerary covers the complete Khopra Danda experience at a safe, well-paced rhythm.
Unlike the Annapurna Base Camp or classic Poon Hill circuits, the Khopra Danda trail beyond Swanta sees dramatically fewer trekkers — creating a genuine sense of wilderness and discovery. The ridge teahouses at Khopra Danda sit in one of the most spectacularly positioned locations in the entire Annapurna region. This trek rewards those willing to go slightly further off the map with experiences rarely found on busier Himalayan routes.
Trail gallery
Drive: 1.5–2 hrs | Trek: 3–4 hrs | Altitude: 1,540 m | Overnight: Tikhedhunga
A short drive from Pokhara to Nayapul marks the start of your Khopra Danda adventure.
Trek: 5–6 hrs | Altitude: 2,850 m | Overnight: Ghorepani
The day begins with the iconic Ulleri stone steps — a long, steep staircase ascending through one of the most beautiful rhododendron forests in Nepal.
Early Start: 5 AM | Total Trek: 5–6 hrs | Altitude: ~2,200 m | Overnight: Swanta
Rise before dawn for the short climb to Poon Hill (3,210 m) — one of the most celebrated sunrise viewpoints in the Himalayas.
Trek: 5–6 hrs | Altitude: 3,660 m | Overnight: Khopra Danda
A gradual and increasingly dramatic ascent from Swanta to Khopra Danda — the defining ridgeline of this trek.
Day Hike: 8–10 hrs round trip | Max Altitude: 4,660 m | Overnight: Khopra Danda
The highlight of the entire trek. An early start is essential for the round-trip hike to Khayer Lake (4,660 m) — a sacred alpine lake revered by Hindus and considered a holy site dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Trek: 5–6 hrs | Altitude: 3,350 m | Overnight: Dobato
Descend from Khopra Danda and continue along the remote, rarely-walked trail to Dobato.
Trek: 4–5 hrs | Altitude: 2,630 m | Overnight: Tadapani
A pleasant descent through beautiful forest trails from Dobato down to Tadapani.
Trek: 3–4 hrs | Altitude: 1,940 m | Overnight: Ghandruk
A gentle morning descent through mixed forest to Ghandruk — one of the largest and most beautiful Gurung villages in Nepal.
Trek: 3 hrs | Drive: 1.5–2 hrs | End of Trek
A final pleasant morning trek from Ghandruk descends through terraced farmland and river paths to Nayapul, where your vehicle awaits to return you to Pokhara.
| Permit Type | Cost (NPR) | Obtained From |
|---|---|---|
| Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) | NPR 3,000 / person | NTB Office or through your agency |
| TIMS Card (with agency) | NPR 1,000 / person | Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) |
| TIMS Card (independent trekker) | NPR 2,000 / person | Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) |
| Trek Duration | 9 Days / 8 Nights |
| Trek Grade | Moderate |
| Maximum Altitude | 4,660 m (Khayer Lake) |
| Ridge Altitude | 3,660 m (Khopra Danda) |
| Trek Start | Tikhedhunga (via Pokhara–Nayapul drive) |
| Trek End | Pokhara (via Ghandruk–Nayapul drive) |
| Best Season | Spring (Mar–May) & Autumn (Sep–Nov) |
| Accommodation | Teahouses / Lodges |
| Meals on Trek | Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner |
| Daily Walking | 3–10 hrs (varies by day) |
| Required Permits | ACAP + TIMS Card |
| Minimum Age | 12+ Years |
Read before you go
Key route details for timing, cash, safety and comfort on this trek.
Carry sufficient NPR cash before leaving Ghorepani — no ATMs beyond this point
The Khayer Lake day hike (Day 5) is long and demanding — only attempt it if you feel strong
Start early each day — mornings offer the clearest weather and safest conditions
Trails beyond Swanta are less marked than the main ABC route — a licensed guide is strongly recommended
Travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation is mandatory. Carry proof at all times
Teahouse facilities become basic beyond Tadapani — set expectations accordingly
Tipping is customary: USD 8–12/day for guide; USD 5–8/day for porter
The itinerary may need adjustment due to weather or individual pace — flexibility is key
