Khopra Ridge Trek is an exciting adventure around remote and isolated corners of massive Annapurna Himalaya range of mountains with close views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Tukuche and Nilgiri’s peaks, an awesome panorama to witness from the ridge of Khopra.Khopra Ridge Trekking takes you to hidden pockets around north-west of Annapurna Mountains to reach high and scenic ridge at Khopra. This area is less visited and seldom ventured by few groups of trekkers as it is located beyond villages within pure wilderness of enchanting alpine woodlands and mountains.
It is truly a most wonderful and fascinating adventure to experience where first part of the journey leads you on main trails visiting nice farm villages of Gurung and Magar Hill tribes. The walk then guides you to famous Ghorepani situated in the midst of lovely rhododendron and blue pine trees woodland.
The early morning hike in the following day takes you on top scenic view point at Poon Hill. Enjoy spectacular sunrise views over chain of Himalayan range of mountains that includes world’s three highest peaks from Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna and Manaslu with majestic towering Machhapuchare Himal famously known as Fish Tail, due to its twin summit tops.
After relishing wonderful moments with super panorama of high mountains from Ghorepani and Poon Hill, route diverts from main popular trekking. The trek goes on to reach serene tranquil surroundings on peaceful, undisturbed and unspoiled area by mass flow of trekkers.
Journey continues with an ascent leaving lush green vegetation and tree lines for complete wilderness to reach the high ridge of Khopra, the highlight of the trek. Bask in the glory of panoramic mountain views at Khopra Ridge that includes peaks of Vara-Shikar or Annapurna Fang with Annapurna South near distance.
On rest day at Khopra Ridge, one can go for the hike to reach holy lakes of Khayer located within high peaks of Annapurna. Hindu religious festival called Janai Purnima is held in the month of August during monsoon wet season as per Hindu calendar which falls during the Full Moon. Villagers from far and wide visit the holy Khayer Lake for bathe and dip in icy pond. Sheep and goats are also sacrificed as religious activities to please the mountain and nature spirits.
After an exciting time at Khayer Lake, walk back to Khopra ridge taking more than 5-6 hours hike both ways. Then slowly our adventure comes to near end as return route heads down back into dense forest of rhododendron, pines, oaks, magnolia and fir trees with ever present views of Annapurna peaks.
Adventure continues with few short climb but more downhill to reach back on main trail at Tadapani followed by a descend to Ghandruk, a large village populated by Gurung people the hill tribe of Annapurna Himalaya region. Enjoy exploring this exquisite village and witness the local culture interwoven with Buddhism and ancient practice known as Bon (pre-Buddhism) that worships nature and mountain spirits.
After a pleasant and wonderful last overnight stop on high hills of Annapurna, complete the last day walk taking a short drive to reach Pokhara. The famous touristic city of Pokhara is a great scenic place to start and end this fabulous Khopra Ridge Trek where you will be blessed with natural beauty of high mountain range of Annapurna and Macchapuchre that reflects on its calm Phewa and Begnas Lakes.
March to May and September to November are the best times of the year for this wonderful Khopra Ridge Trek. Marvel Adventure organizes this trek with a professionally designed itinerary, license holder trekking guide, permits and all the necessary arrangements. Join us and enjoy one of the most rewarding treks in the Annapurna region.
If you're want an extended trek to experience the breathtaking beauty of Annapurna region, we also offer a Annapurna Circuit Trek 12 days itinerary, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Himalayas in a slightly longer timeframe.
