10-Day Khopra Danda Trek in Nepal with Poon Hill and Ghandruk

Your tour representative will welcome you at TIA, Kathmandu, and assist with your transfer to the hotel. Once you have had time to settle in, you will meet your guide to discuss the details of the trip before joining a welcome dinner. Stay overnight at the hotel.

• The drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, Syauli Bazaar, or Kimche is the starting point for the Khopra Danda Trek. From there, you will trek to Ghandruk, which is situated at an altitude of 1,940 meters (6,364 feet).
• Here is an overview of this part of the trek:
• Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul/Syauli Bazaar/Kimche: The drive takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on road conditions and your starting point. These are the common starting points for the Khopra Danda Trek, and you can choose the most convenient one based on your trekking itinerary.
• Trek from Nayapul/Syauli Bazaar/Kimche to Ghandruk: From Nayapul, Syauli Bazaar, or Kimche, you will begin your trek to Ghandruk. The trail passes through terraced fields, lush forests, and traditional villages. It is a scenic and relatively easy trek, with some uphill and downhill sections. The duration is typically around 5 to 6 hours, depending on your pace.
• Ghandruk: Ghandruk is a beautiful Gurung village and a popular stopover point on the Khopra Danda Trek. The village offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) mountains. You can explore the traditional stone houses, visit the local museum, and immerse yourself in the rich Gurung culture.
• Accommodation: Ghandruk has several tea houses and lodges where you can stay for the night. These accommodations provide basic facilities such as rooms with beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms. Some tea houses may also have attached bathrooms and hot showers available for an additional cost.
• Food and drinks: The tea houses in Ghandruk offer a variety of meals, including local Nepali and Western dishes. You can enjoy traditional dal bhat (rice, lentils, and curry), momo (dumplings), noodles, and other delicious food options. It is advisable to carry some cash, as credit card facilities may not be available in these remote areas.
• After spending a night in Ghandruk, you will continue your trek towards Tadapani and then proceed further to reach Khopra Danda. The trek offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, diverse landscapes, and cultural encounters with local communities along the way.

• The trek from Ghandruk (1,940m/6,364ft) to Bayeli Kharka (3,450m/11,318ft) is a significant ascent in altitude and takes you deeper into the Khopra Danda Trek. Here is an overview of this section of the trek:
• Departure from Ghandruk: After spending a night in Ghandruk, you will trek towards Bayeli Kharka. The trail initially descends for a short distance, crossing a river, before gradually ascending through beautiful rhododendron forests.
• Tadapani: As you trek from Ghandruk, you will pass through the village of Tadapani. Tadapani is around 2,630 meters (8,628 feet) and is a common stopover point along the Khopra Danda Trek. The village offers magnificent views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) mountains.
• Rhododendron forests: After Tadapani, the trail continues through enchanting rhododendron forests, which are especially vibrant during the spring (March to April), when the rhododendron flowers are in full bloom. The trail gradually ascends, offering glimpses of the surrounding mountain peaks.
• Bayeli Kharka: After several hours of trekking, you will reach Bayeli Kharka, which is situated at 3,450 meters (11,318 feet). Bayeli Kharka is a scenic grazing pasture and offers panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. It is a tranquil and peaceful place to spend the night and acclimatize to the increasing altitude.
• Accommodation: Bayeli Kharka has a few basic tea houses and lodges where you can stay for the night. The facilities may be more basic compared to lower altitudes, with shared rooms and common bathrooms available. It is essential to carry a suitable sleeping bag to keep warm at the higher elevations.
• Altitude considerations: The trek from Ghandruk to Bayeli Kharka involves a significant gain in altitude. It is important to take your time, maintain a steady pace, and stay hydrated. Acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude-related illnesses. It is recommended to consult your trekking guide and follow their guidance regarding altitude acclimatization and safety measures.
• From Bayeli Kharka, the Khopra Danda Trek continues to the Khopra Ridge and other trek highlights, including Khayar Lake and Swanta Village. The trek offers stunning mountain views, diverse landscapes, and opportunities to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and culture of the region.

• The trek from Bayeli Kharka (3,450m/11,318ft) to Khopra Danda (Ridge) (3,660m/11,811ft) is a relatively short but steep ascent, taking you to the stunning viewpoint of Khopra Danda. Here is an overview of this section of the Khopra Danda Trek:
• Departure from Bayeli Kharka: After spending a night in Bayeli Kharka, you will begin your trek towards Khopra Danda. The trail initially climbs steadily through alpine meadows and sparse vegetation.
• Steep ascent: The trail becomes steeper as you progress towards Khopra Danda. You will be trekking uphill and gaining elevation quickly. The path can be rocky and uneven, requiring effort and stamina. Take regular breaks to catch your breath and enjoy the surrounding views.
• Khopra Danda viewpoint: As you reach Khopra Danda (Ridge) at 3,660m (11,811ft), you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. On a clear day, you can see majestic mountains like Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and others. The view from Khopra Danda is one of the trek's highlights and is often described as a hidden gem.
• Accommodation: Khopra Danda has a community-run lodge called Khopra Ridge Community Lodge, which provides basic accommodation for trekkers. The lodge offers simple rooms with shared bathrooms. Carrying a suitable sleeping bag for added comfort and warmth is advisable.
• Facilities: The facilities at Khopra Danda are limited compared to lower altitudes. The lodge provides basic meals like dal bhat (rice, lentils, and curry), noodles, and other simple dishes. Hot showers and electricity may not be available, so be prepared for more basic amenities.
• Side trips: From Khopra Danda, you can explore additional attractions like Khayar Lake and Swanta Village. Khayar Lake is a glacial lake situated at around 4,500m (14,764ft) and requires an additional day of hiking. Swanta Village is a traditional Gurung village known for its cultural significance and terraced fields.
• It is important to note that Khopra Danda offers a quieter and less crowded alternative to the popular Poon Hill viewpoint. The trek provides a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience in the Annapurna region, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and serenity of the mountains.

• The trek from Khopra Danda (Ridge) (3,660m/11,811ft) to Swanta (2,214m/7,874ft) takes you downhill from the high ridge to the beautiful village of Swanta.
• Here is an overview of this section of the Khopra Danda Trek:
• Departure from Khopra Danda: After enjoying the magnificent views from Khopra Danda, you will start your descent towards Swanta. The trail initially descends through forests and meadows, offering picturesque views of the surrounding landscapes.
• Forested path: As you trek downhill, you will pass through dense forests with varied vegetation. The trail is mostly well-defined, although some sections can be steep and rocky. Take caution while descending and use trekking poles for added stability.
• Traditional villages: Along the way, you will pass through several traditional villages, including Chistibung and Dobato. These villages provide insights into the local culture and way of life. You can interact with the villagers, observe their traditional houses, and experience the warmth of Nepalese hospitality.
• Swanta: After several hours of trekking, you will reach Swanta, a beautiful Gurung village situated at an altitude of 2,214m (7,874ft). Swanta offers a peaceful and authentic rural experience, surrounded by terraced fields and lush greenery. It is a great place to relax and immerse yourself in the local culture.
• Accommodation: Swanta has a few tea houses and lodges where you can stay for the night. These accommodations provide basic facilities such as rooms with beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms. Hot showers may not be available, and electricity may be limited or unavailable in some lodges.
• Cultural experience: Swanta is known for its rich Gurung culture. You can explore the village, interact with the locals, and learn about their traditions, customs, and daily activities. The villagers are friendly and welcoming, offering a glimpse into their way of life.
• Alternative route: Alternatively, some trekkers continue the trek from Khopra Danda to Tatopani, which is a longer route. This route takes you through more villages and offers hot springs at Tatopani for a relaxing experience.
• The trek from Khopra Danda to Swanta provides a blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and a peaceful trekking experience. You will witness the changing landscapes, encounter local communities, and enjoy the serenity of the mountains throughout your journey.

• The trek from Swanta (2,214m/7,874ft) to Ghorepani (2,880m/9,350ft) takes you through scenic landscapes and charming villages in the Annapurna region.
• Here is an overview of this section of the Khopra Danda Trek:
• Departure from Swanta: After spending a night in Swanta, you will trek towards Ghorepani. The trail initially descends through terraced fields and small streams before gradually ascending.
• Village walk: As you trek from Swanta, you will pass through several traditional villages, including Chittre and Chitrepani. These villages offer a glimpse into the local way of life, with traditional houses, terraced fields, and friendly villagers.
• Forested trails: The trail takes you through beautiful forests, primarily of oak, rhododendron, and pine trees. These forested sections provide shade and add to the trek's natural beauty.
• Waterfalls and streams: Along the way, you will come across charming waterfalls and streams, adding to the scenic beauty of the trek. You can stop to refresh yourself and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
• Ulleri: One of the notable stops on this section is the village of Ulleri. Ulleri is around 2,070m (6,791ft) and is known for its stone staircases. You must climb around 3,000 steps to reach the village, which can be challenging but rewarding.
• Ghorepani: After several hours of trekking, you will reach Ghorepani, a popular village at an altitude of 2,880m (9,350ft). Ghorepani is a common stopover point for trekkers heading towards Poon Hill for sunrise views. The village offers various accommodation options, tea houses, and restaurants.
• Accommodation: Ghorepani has a range of tea houses and lodges where you can stay for the night. These accommodations provide basic facilities such as rooms with beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms. Hot showers may be available, and some lodges may have limited electricity for charging devices.
• Views and sunsets: From Ghorepani, you can take an optional early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210m/10,531ft) to witness the stunning sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The panoramic views from Poon Hill are breathtaking and well worth the early morning wake-up.
• The trek from Swanta to Ghorepani combines natural beauty, cultural encounters, and the opportunity to witness magnificent mountain vistas. It offers a mix of uphill and downhill sections, providing a moderate level of difficulty suitable for trekkers with a reasonable fitness level.

• After enjoying the sunrise views from Poon Hill (3,210m/10,525ft), you will continue your trek towards Birethanti (1,039m/3,250ft) and then drive back to Pokhara.
• Here is an overview of this final section of the Khopra Danda Trek:
• Early morning hike to Poon Hill: Before sunrise, you will start your hike to Poon Hill, a popular viewpoint in the Annapurna region. The hike usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace. From the top of Poon Hill, you will witness breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges and other surrounding peaks. The sunrise over the mountains is a spectacular sight and a highlight of the trek.
• Descend to Ghorepani: After enjoying the sunrise and spending some time at Poon Hill, you will trek back to Ghorepani, where you will have breakfast and rest for a while.
• Trek to Tadapani: From Ghorepani, you will continue your trek towards Tadapani (2,590m/8,497ft). The trail descends through rhododendron forests and offers beautiful views of the mountains. Tadapani is a small village with several tea houses and lodges where you can stop for lunch or stay overnight.
• Trek to Ghandruk: After leaving Tadapani, the trail descends further towards Ghandruk (1,940m/6,364ft), a traditional Gurung village. The trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) peaks. Ghandruk is a popular village known for its rich culture, traditional houses, and warm hospitality.
• Trek to Birethanti: From Ghandruk, you will trek downhill towards Birethanti, which is located at an altitude of 1,039m (3,250ft). The trail passes through beautiful forests, terraced fields, and small settlements. Birethanti is a gateway to the Annapurna Conservation Area and has basic facilities such as tea houses, lodges, and shops.
• Drive to Pokhara: From Birethanti, you will take a scenic drive back to Pokhara, which usually takes around 1 to 2 hours, depending on road conditions. Once you reach Pokhara, you can relax, celebrate the completion of your trek, and enjoy the lakeside city.
• The trek from Poon Hill to Birethanti offers a mix of downhill sections, picturesque landscapes, and cultural experiences. It allows you to witness the grandeur of the Annapurna mountains and immerse yourself in the region's local culture.

• If you plan to travel from Pokhara to Kathmandu, you have two main options: a tourist bus or a flight.
• Tourist bus: A tourist bus from Pokhara to Kathmandu is a popular and affordable option for many travellers. The journey takes around 7 hours and offers stunning views of the Nepalese countryside. The tourist bus departs from Pokhara early in the morning and arrives in Kathmandu in the afternoon. The bus is comfortable and equipped with air conditioning and basic amenities.
• Flight: A flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu is quicker and more convenient for those who want to save time. The flight takes around 25 to 30 minutes and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Flights depart several times a day from Pokhara Airport and arrive at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport.
• Recommendation: While both options have advantages, taking the flight is recommended if you are short on time or prefer a more comfortable journey. The flight is more expensive than the bus, but it offers stunning views of the mountains and saves you from a long and tiring road journey. However, if you have plenty of time and enjoy a scenic road trip, the tourist bus is a great option that allows you to enjoy the beautiful Nepalese countryside.
• In conclusion, whether you take a tourist bus or a flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience in Nepal. The journey offers stunning views of the Himalayas and the Nepalese countryside, making it a highlight of any trip to Nepal.

• After your trek, spending a leisurely day in Kathmandu is a great way to relax and explore the city. One of the most popular areas to explore is Thamel, a vibrant and bustling district filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes.
• You can wander through the narrow streets and alleys, shop for souvenirs or locally made handicrafts, or simply sit at a cafe and watch the world go by. Thamel is also home to many trekking and adventure gear shops, so it is a good place to pick up any last-minute items.
• If you are interested in exploring Kathmandu's cultural and historical sites, you can choose from many optional sightseeing tours. Some of the top attractions include:
• Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple): This ancient Buddhist temple sits atop a hill overlooking the city and is known for its colourful prayer flags, intricate carvings, and resident monkeys.
• Pashupatinath Temple: This sacred Hindu temple complex is located on the banks of the Bagmati River and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a fascinating place to observe the rituals and customs of Hinduism.
• Kathmandu Durbar Square: This historic square in the heart of the city is home to many temples, palaces, and statues, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Boudhanath Stupa: This massive Buddhist stupa is one of the world's largest and a center for Tibetan Buddhism in Kathmandu.
• Special information: If there is bad weather or low cloud conditions, your flight back to Kathmandu may not operate, giving you an extra day in Lukla to relax or do a day walk. In this case, you will return to Kathmandu by late morning on day 15, and the trip will end with an arrival transfer back to your hotel. Please note that during peak travel times, domestic flights to and from Kathmandu may arrive at or depart from Ramechhap (also known as Manthali) Airport. The airport is located 130 km (approximately 4 to 5 hours' drive) from Kathmandu.
• Optional activities:
• Kathmandu - Panorama Hike Urban Adventure - USD57
• Kathmandu - Spiritual Nepal Urban Adventure - USD80
• Kathmandu - In Focus: Handmade Kathmandu - USD93
• Kathmandu - Exploring Patan & Bhaktapur Urban Adventure - USD97

• It looks like you have completed your adventure in Nepal. Before you head back home, please take a moment to share your feedback with us. We hope you had an amazing time exploring Nepal's natural beauty and cultural richness.
• As you prepare for your international flight home, we would like to thank you for choosing us as your travel partner. We hope that you will cherish the memories of your trip to Nepal for years to come, and we look forward to welcoming you back for another adventure in the future. Please be ready in the hotel lobby 3 hours before your international flight. Namaste! See you again next time.