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Your adventure begins with a scenic journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara, Nepal’s beautiful lake city. You can either take a comfortable 8 to 9 hours’ drive through winding hills, terraced fields, and riverside landscapes or opt for a short 20 minute flight with breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you’ll have time to explore the city, visit the tranquil Phewa Lake, or prepare for the trek ahead.
After an early breakfast, we take a scenic drive to Ghandruk, a picturesque Gurung village known for its rich culture and stunning mountain views. From here, we begin our trek through rhododendron forests and charming settlements. The trail gradually ascends to Tadapani, offering breathtaking glimpses of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). The peaceful forested path and the sound of chirping birds make this day’s trek a delightful experience. Overnight in Tadapani.
Leaving Tadapani, we venture deeper into the untouched wilderness, following a less-traveled trail towards Dobato. The trek takes us through dense rhododendron forests, with occasional clearings offering spectacular mountain panoramas. As we gain altitude, the views become more dramatic, with Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges appearing closer. Dobato is a peaceful spot nestled in the hills, perfect for stargazing at night. Overnight in Dobato.
Early in the morning, we hike up to Muldai View Point (3,637m), one of the best vantage points in the region, to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas. The panoramic view of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Machhapuchhre is truly mesmerizing. After soaking in the beauty, we descend through alpine meadows and forest trails to Chistibung, a remote pastureland with a few teahouses. This is an excellent place to observe local wildlife, including Himalayan tahr and pheasants. Overnight in Chistibung.
Today's trek is relatively short but steep as we ascend towards the iconic Khopra Ridge. The climb is rewarded with awe-inspiring views of Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Nilgiri, Annapurna South, and surrounding peaks. As we reach the ridge, we are greeted by the most spectacular mountain scenery. The sense of solitude and tranquility at Khopra Ridge makes it a perfect spot for meditation and relaxation. Overnight at a lodge in Khopra Ridge.
For adventure seekers, this is the most challenging yet rewarding day of the trek. We start early for an optional full-day hike to the sacred Khyar Lake, located at 4,600 meters. This high-altitude lake is revered by Hindus and Buddhists, and its turquoise waters are set against a dramatic backdrop of snow-covered peaks. The strenuous trek is worth every step, offering unparalleled views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. After exploring the area, we return to Khopra Ridge for the night.
After enjoying a final sunrise from Khopra Ridge, we begin our descent towards Swanta village. The trail takes us through alpine meadows, rhododendron forests, and terraced farmlands. Swanta is a charming Magar village where you can experience local hospitality and traditional culture. Enjoy a relaxing evening in this peaceful setting. Overnight in Swanta.
Today's trek leads us towards Ghorepani, one of the most popular trekking destinations in the Annapurna region. The trail passes through terraced fields and forests filled with oak and rhododendron trees. As we approach Ghorepani, we rejoin the classic Annapurna Circuit route, with trekkers from different parts of the world. Enjoy the warm hospitality of this vibrant trekking hub. Overnight in Ghorepani.
We start the day with an early morning hike to Poon Hill, one of Nepal’s most famous viewpoints. Witnessing the sunrise over Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Machhapuchhre is a magical experience. After capturing stunning photos, we continue towards Mohare Danda, a lesser-visited yet equally scenic ridge offering peaceful surroundings and breathtaking views. Overnight in Mohare Danda.
Descending from Mohare Danda, we trek down through lush forests and traditional villages, eventually reaching Ulleri. From here, a private vehicle awaits to take us back to Pokhara. Upon arrival, you can relax by Phewa Lake, enjoy a nice meal, or explore the lively Lakeside area. Overnight in Pokhara.
After an unforgettable journey in the Himalayas, we return to Kathmandu. You can choose between a scenic drive or a short flight, depending on your preference. Upon arrival, you can explore Kathmandu’s cultural heritage, shop for souvenirs, or simply unwind. This marks the end of an incredible trekking adventure with Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition.
The Khopra Ridge and Mohare Danda Trek is considered a moderate trek, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers. The daily trekking duration ranges from 4 to 6 hours, with a mix of gradual ascents, steep climbs, and downhill sections. Unlike high-altitude treks such as Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit, this trek does not require technical climbing skills, but a good level of fitness and endurance is essential. The optional hike to Khyar Lake (4,600m) from Khopra Ridge is more challenging and recommended for those looking for an extra adventure. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and steady pacing are key to making the trek more enjoyable.
The best time for this trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. Spring offers mild temperatures, lush green forests, and blooming rhododendrons, creating a stunning trekking atmosphere. Autumn is the most popular season due to its stable weather, clear mountain views, and comfortable trekking conditions. Winter trekking (December to February) is possible, but temperatures can drop below freezing at higher elevations, making it a colder experience. Monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rainfall, slippery trails, and limited visibility, but it is the best time for those who enjoy quieter trails and lush landscapes.
The Khopra Ridge and Mohare Danda Trek primarily offers accommodation in teahouses and community eco-lodges. These lodges provide basic yet comfortable rooms, typically with twin-sharing beds, warm blankets, and communal dining areas. Some teahouses in larger villages like Ghandruk and Ghorepani may have attached bathrooms, while higher-altitude lodges like Khopra Ridge and Mohare Danda offer more basic facilities with shared toilets. Community-run lodges in Mohare Danda focus on sustainable tourism, ensuring that tourism benefits local communities. Trekkers should be prepared for simple accommodations with limited facilities at higher elevations.
Teahouses along the trek offer a variety of meals, primarily based on traditional Nepali and Tibetan cuisine. The staple meal is dal bhat (rice, lentil soup, and vegetables), which is highly recommended as it provides ample energy for trekking. Other food options include Tibetan bread, chapati, momo (dumplings), noodles, pasta, fried rice, soups, and omelets. Some teahouses also offer continental breakfast options such as pancakes, porridge, and toast. Vegetarian meals are widely available, and trekkers with special dietary requirements should inform their guide in advance.
Drinking water is available at teahouses along the route, but trekkers are encouraged to use boiled water, water purification tablets, or portable filters to ensure safety. While bottled water is available for purchase, we recommend carrying a reusable water bottle to minimize plastic waste. Some teahouses offer refill stations with filtered water, promoting eco-friendly trekking. Staying hydrated is crucial for avoiding altitude sickness, so it is recommended to drink at least 3 to 4 liters of water daily.
Charging facilities are available in most teahouses, especially in lower-altitude villages like Ghandruk and Ghorepani. However, as you ascend to remote areas such as Khopra Ridge and Mohare Danda, charging may come at an additional cost due to limited power sources. Many teahouses rely on solar energy, so charging availability may be inconsistent during cloudy weather. To avoid extra charges, trekkers should carry a power bank or solar charger to keep their electronic devices powered throughout the trek.
Mobile network coverage is available in most lower-altitude villages, with service from Nepal Telecom (NTC) and Ncell. However, as you ascend to higher elevations like Dobato, Chistibung, and Khopra Ridge, network coverage becomes weaker or unavailable. Some teahouses offer WiFi services for an additional cost, but internet speeds are slow and unreliable. Trekkers are advised to purchase a local SIM card before the trek and inform family members about possible communication delays while in remote areas.
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for the Khopra Ridge and Mohare Danda Trek. The insurance should cover medical emergencies, high-altitude evacuation, accidents, and trip cancellations. While this trek is not extremely high in altitude, unexpected weather conditions or health issues may require emergency evacuation. Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition strongly advises trekkers to purchase insurance that includes helicopter rescue services before starting the trek.
While it is possible to do the trek independently, hiring an experienced guide and porter enhances the trekking experience by ensuring safety, navigation, and cultural insights. A guide provides valuable information about local traditions, landscapes, and mountain conditions, while a porter helps carry your luggage, allowing you to trek more comfortably. Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition provides professional, government-licensed guides and reliable porters to make your journey stress-free and enjoyable.
Trekkers need two main permits for the Khopra Ridge and Mohare Danda Trek:
These permits are included in the trekking package when booked with Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition, and our team will handle all the necessary paperwork on your behalf.
Packing the right gear is essential for a successful trek. Recommended items include:
Cime Himalaya Trek & Expedition is a trusted trekking company known for its professional service, experienced guides, and responsible tourism approach. We specialize in off-the-beaten-path treks like Khopra Ridge and Mohare Danda, ensuring an authentic Himalayan adventure away from the crowded trails.
We provide: