Khopra Danda trek

Khopra Dhada Trek is the newly designed community lodge-based trekking in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Being the newly opened trekking trail, it is less crowded and is regarded as the best alternative to popular Ghorepani Trek. If you are willing to do the short and exciting off-the-beaten-path trek along with the splendid views then the trek to Khorpa Ridge is a perfect choice. You will be elated with a wonderful opportunity to chill out in the pristine nature and get spectacular views of the mountains. You will also get to witness Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Dhauligiri, Gandarvachuli, Fishtail, Nilgiri, and so on during this trek. Undoubtedly, this all makes Khopra Danda Trek one of the best short treks in Nepal.

The trek to Khopra Danda serves you with an astonishing view of picturesque villages, terrace fields, lush green hills, and various flora and fauna.  If you want more adventure than trekking further from Khorpa Danda, there is Khayare Lake. Strolling around this sacred Lake provides peace to your body and soul. In addition, the ravishing view of mountains from this point is awe-inspiring.

Besides the ecstasy of enjoying the natural beauty the trek also provides the trekkers an opportunity to experience the unique culture and lifestyle of the locals. The culture of this place is another reason to attract tourists. On the special day of Janaipurnima, locals in this place drink the blood of Yak. These locals believe that drinking the blood of Yak is a cure for many diseases including cancer. According to the locals, yak of this place graze ‘Yarshagumba’ the medicinal herds. People do not kill the yak to take the blood, rather they just inject yak to get blood for drinking. The experience of rustic mountain life, intriguing hospitality, and the adventure found in this place are really hard to find elsewhere in Nepal.

How to get to the Khopra Danda?

Either taking a flight or scenic drive from Kathmandu you can reach to Pokhara. From Pokhara, you can commence your trekking following the same trekking trail of Ghorepani up to Tadapani. Taking a one and half hour of drive from Pokhara you can reach Nayapul and further trekking from Nayapul the trail leads you to the beautiful Gurung village named Ghandruk. Leaving Ghandruk behind, you can continue your trekking enjoying the fascinating views of Annapurna South, Mt. Machhapuchhre a Mt.Himchuli. 

The trail takes you to Tadapani from where, leaving behind the main trekking trail of Annapurna you head towards Bayeli Kharka, crossing the beautiful rhododendron and oak forest. Walking through the beautiful forest you reach the pasture of Lower Chistibung. Gradually climbing upwards from there the trail takes you to the Upper Chistibung. While trekking you can witness the Danphe as well as Himalayan Thar. Passing through the alpine meadows and pastures you finally reach the Khorpa Danda. From here you can see the top of Annapurna South. Moreover, you can also have the enthralling views of the Kaligandaki river along with other snowcapped mountains such as Mt. Nilgiri, Mt Dhauligiri, and many more. A short trek from Khorpa Danda you can reach to Khyare Lake(4500m), the holy lake of Hindus. You can see several shrines in the vicinity of the lake. The lake also offers a surreal view of Mt.Fang and other surrounding mountains.

 After having a great time there you descend towards Swanta village relishing the captivating views of Mt.Dhauligiri and terraced fields. The trail then leads you down towards Chitre and then to Ghorepani. Ghorepani is the popular spot among trekkers. From here you can have the mesmerizing distant views of  Annapurna and Dhauligiri. Trekking to the Poonhill from Ghorepani, one can have a stunning sunrise view. Some of the Trekkers join Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek just only to have the spectacular sunrise and mountains from the top of Poon Hill.  Further trekking from Ghorepani you can finally conclude you trekking in Nayapul from where you can drive back to Pokhara.

What type of accommodation is available during Khopra Danda Trek?

Well, the Khopra Danda Trekking is the community lodge-based trekking so simple lodge/teahouse accommodation is available. You can have the standard accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara as per your demand but when you head towards the Khorpa Danda you have to adjust yourself with the available accommodation. You spend the night in the lodge which is run by the locals. The rooms are basic normally with just a pillow and blankets on the trekking lodge.  All of the lodges/teahouses provide a spacious dining room. Similar to the other place in Nepal, Dal Bhat tarkari is the most common food available here. You can also order meat items, eggs, bread, tea, coffee, momo, and so on. You will get the homely vibes during your stay in those lodges. The heartwarming hospitality of the locals makes your stay in this lodges memorable.

What fitness level is required for trekking for Khopra Ridge Trek?

 Khopra trek does not follow the difficult trekking route so any person with a normal physical condition can do this trek. A moderate level of fitness is sufficient to complete the trek. Even the beginner can join this trek as no previous experience is required for this trek. You have to walk around  5 to 6 hours per day, hence good stamina is required.

What is the best time for trekking to the Khorpa Danda?

Spring and Autumn seasons are the peak seasons for trekking in Nepal and so is for the trek to Khorpa Danda. The moderate climate and favorable weather make the trekking journey rejuvenating and reminiscing. Blooming rhododendrons along with other fauna make the trail extremely beautiful and walking through this trail provides you an amazing experience which is beyond the words to explain.

What is the equipment required for this trek?

Equipment that you should carry during the Khopra Danda Trek are:

• Daypack for yourself
• Warm wool hat
• Sunhat
• Lightweight Warm Gloves
• T-Shirts (2 to 3 pieces)
• Rain and waterproof jacket
• Fleece Jacket
• Shorts/ Skirts
• Sand shoes
• Trousers/Tracksuits
• Warm Shocks
• Torchlight
• Pocket Knife
• Medium-sized Towel
• Walking Poles
• Sun cream
• Lip Balm
• Water bottle
• Water Pills
• Toiletry Kit
• Personal medical supplies
• 
   

Are there ATMs available on the way to Khopra Danda Trek?

There are no ATMs on this trekking route of Khopra Danda. You have to carry enough cash from Kathmandu or Pokhara as there are a number of ATMs in these cities.

Is it necessary to hire a Guide or Porter for this trek?

Well, this all depends on you. Khopra Danda trekking is possible to do independently. However, if you are for the first time in Nepal then it is recommended to take a guide or porter on the trekking. Guide, Porter Guide, Porter Hire in Nepal is easy however you have to be careful while hiring them. If you book the trekking package with the Local trekking company in Nepal then they will provide you licensed and experienced local guides for you. Among various trekking companies in Nepal, Mountain Rock Treks and Expedition Pvt. Ltd is one of the best trekking company in Nepal. Booking the trekking package with them you can have the wonderful experience of trekking in Nepal.

Do I need the special trekking permit for trekking in this route to reach Khopra Danda?

As you will not trek in the restricted areas of Nepal, a special permit is not required. You only require TIMS Card and Annapurna Conservation Area Project permit for Khopra Danda trekking.