The Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek 29th October- 4th November 2023

from $ 1,566.00

The Annapurna Region in central Nepal is the most geographically and culturally diverse region for trekking. This area has sub-tropical lowlands, valleys, bamboo, oak and rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, windswept desert plateaus and the towering Annapurna Mountains. This area has the world’s deepest river gorge, Kali Ghandaki, lying some 6900 meters /22,563 ft, below some of the world’s largest and most beautiful mountains as the Annapurna I (world’s 8th highest) and the most beautiful Fishtail Peak. Animals and birds are in abundance in this region. 440 species of birds and animals like the marten, deer, langur and the elusive snow leopard live in this area. Stretched over 2,600 sq. km., the area boasts of a variety of diverse cultures, tribes and castes as the Brahmins, Chettris, Newars, Gurungs, Magars, Thakalis, Manangis and the Tibetans.

 

 

  • Reviews 0 Reviews
    0/5
  • Vacation Style Holiday Type
      Trekking
    • Activity Level Challenging
      5/8
    • Min 2 Pax
    All about the The Annapurna Khopra Ridge Trek 29th October- 4th November 2023.

    This is a spectacular adventure trek through the Annapurna foothills to the wild and remote Khopra Ridge – one of the best vantage points in the Himalaya. Accommodations are in teahouses while on the main trail but after we leave the main trail at Tadapani we stay in the community lodges. The profits go directly to the local community thus helping them with village and school projects. After Tadapani, leave the popular main trail and for the next week head through remote alpine terrain to Bayeli, before ascending to Khopra Ridge. Here one can have a view of the mighty peaks of Nilgiri, Annapurna South, Vara Shikhar and Tukuche. Dhaulagiri dominates the western skyline across one of the deepest gorge in the world, the Kali Ghandaki. Our return route descends through open alpine pastures, oak forest and rhododendrons to Swanta, Fulbari OR Paudwar and then head on to the hot springs of Tatopani to enjoy soaking in the pool.

    Then a local jeep ride to Beni and then on to Pokhara for a night before flight back to Kathmandu.

    The tour package inclusions and exclusions at a glance
    What is included in this tour?Items that are included in the cost of tour price.
    • All Transfer from Airport / Hotel / Airport in a private deluxe a/c vehicle accompanied by the representative / guide from Sacred Summits (P) Ltd.
    • 02 Nights accommodation at Hotel (Standard 3 Star) OR on Bed & Breakfast Basis inclusive of all the government taxes. (Currently 24.3%)
    • Welcome dinner at typical Nepali Restaurant with transfer in a private deluxe a/c vehicle accompanied by the representative / guide from Sacred Summits (P) Ltd.
    • Airfare for sector Kathmandu / Pokhara / Kathmandu (Pre & Post Trek) of USD …….. (Subject to change without prior notice)
    • Pokhara / Nayapul / Pokhara drive in a private deluxe car / van pre and post trek
    • Drive from Nayapul / Kimchi in a locally hired jeep.
    • Annapurna Area Conservation Fee US$35.00 plus taxes per person. (Subject to change without prior notice)
    • Trekker Information Management System Card (TIMS) Card of US$10.00 plus taxes per person. (Subject to change without prior notice)
    • 08 Nights / 09 Days Annapurna Khopra Trek as per the given itinerary with accommodation at standard Lodges / Guest houses on the main Annapurna Trail (Ghandrung, Tadapani and Tatopani) and Community lodges with all meals (breakfast + Lunch + Dinner) prepared by the cook at the Tea Houses / Lodges from the menu upon discussion with the group’s preference and the things that are available. NOTE : Attached baths will be available only at Ghandrung and Tatopani)
    • Services of an experienced (knowledgeable and trained in High altitude and first aid) Trek Sirdar /Escort/Guide.
    • Services of locally hired Porter (1 porter for 2 person) who will assist the guest to carry their luggage.
    • All expenses for the guide and support staff including their daily allowances, meals and accommodations.
    • Hire of a Local jeep for the drive from Tatopani to Beni post trek
    • Contribution to Porter Insurance
    • 1 nights twin sharing accommodation at the Hotel in Pokhara (2 star) along the lake side inclusive of breakfast and all taxes (currently 24.3%).
    • Departure Transfer from Pokhara lakeside to domestic airport in Pokhara in a private deluxe a/c vehicle.
    • Arrival Transfer from domestic airport of Kathmandu to hotel in a private deluxe a/c vehicle.
    • Farewell Dinner at the Rum Doodle restaurant with transfers.
    • A comprehensive medical kit
    • All the applicable monument and entrance fees
    • Contribution to Porter insurance of USD 1.50 per person per day.
    • Government taxes and tolls and entrance fees where applicable.
    Whats not included in this tour.Items that are not included in the cost of tour price.
    • International Airfares.
    • Nepal Visa fees (If applicable).
    • Personal Insurance
    • Meals (Lunch ) while the guest stay at hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara if applicable.
    • Items of a personal nature such as bar bills telephone calls, laundry, extra mileage and any extra costs incurred due to natural calamities, flight delays etc.
    • Personal medication
    • Insurance for or against accidents, loss of life, theft etc.
    • Personal insurance, evacuation and medical expenses.
    • Costs incurred due to cancellation of flights, altitude sickness or unforeseen circumstances (riots, natural calamities etc) and situations beyond the control of Sacred Summits (P) Ltd.
    • Tips for the trek
    • Any item not mentioned in the above ‘cost includes’.
    1. Day 1 ARRIVAL IN KATHMANDU (1360 M)

      Upon arrival in Kathmandu, meet the representative from sacred Summits (P) Ltd and transfer to the hotel (30 minutes drive) . .

       

      18:00 Hrs: A short briefing about the tour and trek will be carried out at the hotel lobby. Later board the waiting vehicle and proceed for a welcome dinner at typical Nepali Restaurant (Bhojan Griha)

       

      Bhojan Griha is an authentic Nepali Restaurant located in Dilli Bazar very closer to Durbar Marg (The Kings Way). It is more than 100 years old historical & artistic Nepali building which has been restored and converted into a multi-storied restaurant tastefully decorated in local decor. Bhojan Griha serves Nepali as well as foreign drinks and cocktails. The featured snacks in the menu are momo-cha (meat dumplings), fried or boiled wild boar meat, fried potato Nepali style with masala, dried and marinated venison meat, grilled chicken/mutton/duck, etc. An hour Nepali folk dance program is also organized here. This is the first Nepali restaurant of its kind in Nepal.  After dinner, board the waiting vehicle and drive to Hotel.

       

      Overnight at the Hotel

    2. DAY 02 FLY KATHMANDU / POKHARA AND DRIVE TO KIMCHI & TREK TO GHANDRUNG

      After breakfast, transfer to Airport and fly Kathmandu / Pokhara (30 minutes).

       

      Upon arrival, met by guide and waiting vehicle and drive to Nayapool, 47 kilometers from Pokhara and takes us about 1 ½  – 2 hours. Upon arrival, stop for a quick lunch and then meet porters and Sherpas and then board the local jeep for a 45 minute drive to the settlement of Kimchi.

       

      After distribution of load for the porters, set out for Ghandrung. The trail starts by a hike along an easy trail and then steady climb for about 1 ½ – 2 hours leave behind the motor able road and continue on a trekking trail until we arrive at a gate with a signboard saying “Welcome to Ghandrung”. However, there is a steep climb for another 20/ 25 minutes to arrive at the main village of Ghandrung.

       

      Weather permitting; there are spectacular views of Annapurna South (7219m), Hiunchuli (6441m), Machapuchhare (6993m), and Hiunchuli (6434m).

       

      Ghandrung is one of the largest Gurung villages in Annapurna region in Nepal where the sons and male members of the local community have sacrificed their lives to serve for the Gorkha Armies and security Forces around the world. The brave and chivalrous Gorkhas have earned themselves the reputation as the most loyal and indomitable soldiers in the world.

       

      The afternoon is free for rest or optional activities such as a visit to the Annapurna Conservation Museum and a tea break at the home of a renowned Gorkha soldier who may show you his Victoria Cross won during the first or Second World War.

       

      In the evening the local Gurung women folk will join the campers for a village get together to show their talents in singing and dancing. Guests are welcome to join in. A contribution to the dancing group may be necessary.

       

      Meals included: B, L, and D

      Overnight at the lodge in Ghandrung

       

    3. DAY 03 TREK TO TADAPANI (2450M)

      Today’s walk will be easier with not many steep ascents to encounter. Once you leave Ghandruk, you will enter into a cool oak and rhododendron forest. The forest comes alive with the sounds of birds, streams and small waterfalls. There are no villages on today’s walk but there a few tea houses at Bhaisikharka .we stop for our morning tea and rest. There will be fine views of Annapurna II (7937m), Annapurna III (7555m), Annapurna IV (7525m), Annapurna South (7237m), Machhapuchhare (6993m) and Lamjung Himal (6931m) teasing you all along the way.

       

      Lodges at Tadapani has basic amenities but are perfectly located between the rhododendron forests. One must not miss a sunrise and sunset views from here

       

      Meals included: B, L, and D

       

      Overnight at the Lodge

    4. DAY 04 TREK TO BAILIKHARKA (3400 M)

      Today we will leave the main trail that leads to Ghorepani and follow a rarely used trail – (mainly used by the local shepherds). We will be trekking through thick rhododendron, pine and bamboos forest and soon emerge above the tree line to superb views of the Annapurna range and the Fishtail Mountain.

      There are little tea shops here and we stop for lunch. After lunch we will continue to climb gradually through rhododendron forest to reach Dobato. From here one can absorb great views of the ‘Fish Tail’ Machapuchhare (6993m) and Annapurna south.

       

      The trail descends for a while before making the final ascent to Baili Kharka where you stop for the night.

       

      This is the first community lodge of the trek which provides great views of Dhaulagiri Himal.

       

      Meals included, L, D

       

      Overnight at Community Lodge

    5. DAY 05 TREK TO DHANKHARKA TREK (3000M)

      This morning we will be descending through open ground, forest and crossing the river to reach the pastures of Lower Chistibung. We will now make a climb from the river to reach a clearing and temporary herders settlement at Dhankharka or upper chistibung.

       

      Being off the beaten track, the villages haven’t previously enjoyed the benefits of tourism. Now with the construction of the Community Lodges, there are profits to benefit local projects and schools. This lodge supports the school at Kindu, a nearby village.

       

      Meals included: B, L, and D

      Overnight at the Community Lodge

    6. DAY 06 TREK TO KHOPRA RIDGE (3700 M)

      Today we will embark on a steady climb that will carry us above the tree line to reach the ridge at Khopra. The best way to tackle the climb is to ascend steadily, take your time

      and rest as often as you wish.

      You come across few herders with their Yaks grazing on the slopes. You will reach the lodge on Khopra Ridge in time for lunch and will be greeted by more awe-inspiring views.

       

      Khopra Community Lodge supports the secondary school at Nangi.

       

      Spectacular sunset and sunrise view is possible from here.

       

      Meals included: B, L & D

      Overnight at community Lodge

       

    7. DAY 07 EXCURSIONS AROUND KHOPRA

      This is a rest day to venture out and explore the area around Khopra Ridge. The ridge provides extraordinary panoramic view that includes are Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Nilgiri (7061m),  Bharha Shikhar (7647m), Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South (7219m)  Hiunchuli (6434m), Fishtail (6997m), Annapurna II (7937m) Annapurna IV (7525m), Lamjung Himal (6983m) and other famous mountains in this area.

       

      Meals included: B, L & D

      Overnight at community Lodge

    8. DAY 08 TREK TO PAUDWAR VILLAGE

      Today we will wake up early for the sunrise over Gigantic Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna ranges.

      After breakfast, start our trek which is mostly downhill. It is a relatively easy day following the trail through the forests until our arrival at the village of Paudwar. The village is predominantly a “Magar” Village belonging to the “Poon” community.

      Upon arrival check into the lodge.

       

      Meals included: B, L, and D

      Overnight at the Lodge

       

    9. DAY 09 TREK TO TATOPANI (4 HRS WALK)

      After breakfast, there is more down hill until we arrive at the road-head that links Pokhara with the Mustang District. Follow the highway for a few kilometers until our arrival at the famed settlement of Tatopani.

       

      In Nepal almost every town next to a hot spring is named Tatopani (hot water in English). The Tatopani on this trail is popular because it lies in the Annapurna region.  It is believed that the natural minerals in hot springs relieve ailments associated with joints, gastritis and skin among others.

      The afternoon is free to enjoy a hot dip in the mineral hot springs of Tatopani.

      Meals include: B, L & D

      Overnight at the Lodge

    10. DAY 10 DRIVE TO POKHARA

      After breakfast, walk down to the jeep station and then board the local jeep to Beni.  At Beni, met by Van from Pokhara and for 3 ½ – 4 hours drive to Pokhara (Enroute stop for lunch at a local restaurant / Guest house), and check into the Hotel.

      Pokhara stands at 8, 84 m above sea level, about 700 m lower than Kathmandu Valley. In Kathmandu Valley the high temples are all around you, in Pokhara it is the mountains. Only foothills separate Pokhara form the full height of the Himalayas, and the magnificent 8000 m. peaks of the Annapurna range. It is a vacationer’s paradise with its crystal clear lakes and fantastic views of the Annapurna range including the Fish Tail Mountain.

      The rest of the day is free to walks along the lake side bazaar or take a boat ride on the famous Few lake..

      Overnight at the Hotel.

    11. DAY 11 FLY POKHARA / KATHMANDU

      A leisurely morning and then transfer to the airport for the 25 minute flight to Kathmandu, (Enroute stop for lunch at a local restaurant / Guest house). Upon arrival in Kathmandu. Meet and transfer to the Hotel.

       

      Rest of the evening is free to relax or last minute shopping.

       

      19:00 Hrs : Farewell dinner in Rum Doodle

       

      Rum Doodle restaurant is situated in Naxal Kathmandu. Established in 1980, the restaurant is known to climbers, walkers and backpackers from all over the world. Behind the bar are wooden boxes with the signatures of hundreds of Everest summiteers, including Sir Edmund Hillary. It basically offers International cuisine to its guests. ”Wood-Fire Pizza” is their main specialty and free meals would be provided to all the successful Mt. Everest Pinnacles.

       

      Overnight at the Hotel 

    12. DAY 12 FINAL DEPARTURE

      Free for last minute packing and shopping until departure to Airport for final Departure