Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake
In Nepali: खोप्रा डाँडा र खयर ताल · Also known as: Khopra Danda · Khayer Lake · खोप्रा डाँडा
Khopra Ridge (about 3,660 m) looks straight across the Kali Gandaki at Dhaulagiri and down onto the Annapurna South glaciers. The trail, sometimes called the Khopra Danda or Mohare trek, runs through dense forest with lodges owned by local communities, whose profits fund schools and health posts.
A long day hike from the ridge climbs to Khayer Barahi Lake (about 4,660 m), a pilgrimage site at the full moon of August. The route branches from the Poon Hill trail at Tadapani or Ghorepani and takes about a week.
What to see and do
From Khopra's community lodge, watch sunrise on Dhaulagiri, Tukuche, Nilgiri and Annapurna South. Take the long day hike to the sacred Khayer Lake, and walk through the Swanta and Chistibang villages on the way down. Wildlife includes Himalayan tahr and danphe pheasants.
Good to know
Lodges are community-owned, so profits support local schools. Weather can close in quickly; the Khayer Lake trail should be done with a guide. ACAP permit required.
Quick answers
- Where is Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake?
- Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake is in Myagdi district, Gandaki Province, in the Pahad belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake?
- About 3,660 m (12,008 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake?
- For a 8-day trip from Pokhara, about NPR 45,500 (≈ US$335) per person on a budget, or NPR 62,000 (≈ US$460) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food, entry fees, a guide and porter. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 22,500 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake?
- Plan 6 nights there for the trek; with travel from Pokhara and back, about 8 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake?
- Foreign visitors pay about NPR 3,000 / US$22 to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP) (SAARC visitors about half, Nepali citizens a small fee).
- Do I need a guide for Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake?
- Yes, for foreign trekkers: since 2023 a licensed guide is required in Nepal’s national parks and conservation areas. Nepali trekkers may go on their own.
- When is the best time to visit Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake?
- October–November; March–May
- How do I get to Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake?
- From Ghorepani or Tadapani on the Poon Hill trek. It is about 44 km (straight line) from Pokhara.
- What is Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake called in Nepali?
- खोप्रा डाँडा र खयर ताल
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