Kopra Ridge Trek is located away from the busier trails of Annapurna region of Nepal and for four nights of the itinerary you stay in community lodges set up local villagers. The mountain views from Kopra Ridge are superb and include Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Fang and Nilgiri and also from Ghandruk one can see Machhapuchhre (also known as Fishtail) and Hiunchuli. The concept behind the community lodges at Bayeli Kharka, Upper Chistibung, Kopra and Swanta is that ownership of these lodges belongs to a village rather than individuals with profits contributing to community projects such as funding local schools.
A training program has been provided to the local villagers who run each lodge covering food preparation and lodge management. There is no doubt that Kopra Ridge is one of the best short treks in Nepal. This short trek contains all of the elements of a classic Nepal trekking experience including villages, wildlife, panoramic mountain views and range of landscape from forest to high alpine.
Day 01: Arrival and transfer to Hotel in Kathmandu
Upon arrival in Kathmandu Airport, our airport representative will welcome you and give you short info about Kathmandu and directly drive to the Hotel. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 02: Sightseeing for a full day in Kathmandu Valley.
World heritage sites like Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhu Nath, Boudha Nath, Pasupati Nath, etc. Preparation for the trekking.
Day 03: Drive To Pokhara [930 m]
After breakfast at the Hotel we begin our drive towards Nepal’s lake city, Pokhara. The drive will take about 6-7 hours where we follow meandering road over the valley. We then drive along the Trishuli River followed by another river, MArshyangdi River after we cross the half way. Crossing many local settlements we reach Pokhara normally in the afternoon. The rest of the day is at leisure after you have checked in. Overnight stay at Hotel Peninsula or Similar.
Day 04: Drive to Nayapul (1080m) & Trek to Ghandruk (1940) - approx 5/6 hrs
We begin our trekking holiday from Pokhara to Nayapul (1050m) which is a 01 hour drive, from Nayapul; our trek begins as the trail ascends slightly through forests to Ghandruk, a bustling village of the ethnic Gurung community who has their own dialect, culture, dress and traditions. Ghandruk is also home to many Gurkha soldiers. It is a well known destination for trekkers as it is known for its beautiful mountain views and also because it's just a stone’s throw from Pokhara and Kathmandu. The afternoon is ours to visit the Annapurna Conservation Office, museums and explore the interesting village.
Day 05: Trek to Tadapani (2590m) - Approx. 3/4 hrs
We first descend further along the trail showcasing rich rhododendron forests, splendidly cascading sparkling mountain streams and other magical vistas of nature that surprise us. After continuously climbing for 3 hours, we step on the territory of Tadapani at an altitude of 2590m. Tadapani offers the most awesome mountain views of the overpowering peaks of Annapurna South.
Day 06: Tadapani to Dobato [3420m] - 5 hrs
Our walk is on the gradual path for sometime through lush rain forest, after several hours of healthy hiking we come to a small clearing; we might stop here for lunch depending on the time. After a stop here, our walk continues to a slow climb for an hour through the rhododendron and pine wood, coming to an open large pasture with a strong wooden Shepard’s shade, from here our route diverts east with a short climb to a ridge through the short rhododendron bushes, from the ridge few minutes of descend brings us to a small path above the cliff side, this almost level path for 5-10 minutes could be risky walking in snow and hail-storm, which may occur sometimes, however this small section has to be undertaken cautiously. After reaching the other side of the ridge near the boulders, our hike goes on a downhill slope overlooking terrific views of the surrounding landscapes, Annapurna range including the most amazing peak of Machhapuchare and Dhaulagiri range to the west. From here a gradual climb of less than two hours brings us to our overnight camp at Do Bato, which is a cowherd spot full of scattered temporary built huts in the middle of rhododendron and magnolia forest with excellent close-up views of Annapurna mountains and as far as to Manaslu range to the east.
Day 07: Trek to Chhistibung (3100m) – 4-5 hrs
After breakfast, we descend through clear ground and fine-looking forest to reach the pastures of Chistibung. After this, we ascend gradually through a forest before reaching Upper Chistibung which is a temporary herder’s settlement. If you are able to identify it, you might be fortunate to catch sight of the colorful Lophophorus (Danphe), the national bird of Nepal, as well as Himalayan Thar on the grassy ridge high above the trail.
Day 08: Trek to Khopra Danda (4020m) – 3-4 hrs
After a warm hearty breakfast, we set out on a steady climb above the tree line through alpine meadows and pastures to reach Khopra. On nearing the Khopra Ridge, we see the tip of Annapurna South. Upon reaching Khopra we go for a brief hike down Khopra Ridge to a viewpoint overlooking Kali Gandaki river far below in this deep valley. From Khopra we also approve of the stunning mountain panorama including Mt. Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and Annapurna South.
Day 09: Trek to Khayer BC (4620m)-visit to Kalibaraha Lake (4827m) – 5-6 hrs
At our own leisurely pace, we can head for a short hike around the ridge which has always been a summer pasture for the local shepards from Chitre and Ghorepani, and from as far of as Kimche Khola village. The scenery hereabouts of the surrounding snowcapped peaks are awesome and just simply unique; for folks who’ve got the stamina, a healthy stroll to Kalibharaha also called Khayer BC lake at 4620m can be done in a day, taking about 5-6 hours both ways. Kalibaraha Lake is a revered lake, which is glacier fed from the peaks of Annapurna south and Bhara Shikhar (Annapurna Fang). Local folks from almost the whole region of Annapurna area and as far as from Ghasa and Tatopani head out here for pilgrimages annually, the auspicious time being the month of August for a holy ritual in which they sacrifice young goats and sheep's blood in the lake and offer prayers to the mountain gods. When there’s heavy snowfall, trekkers are advised to avoid this trail completely as the route is narrow with steep drops and the snow around this area takes a pretty long time to melt because its hidden from direct sunlight.
Day 10: Trek to Chitre (2370m) or Swanta (2270m) – 4-5 hrs
From Khopra Ridge we descend off the hillock and hike coolly downhill on a steep trail. Along the route we get more views of Mount Dhaulagiri with the towering peak providing a glorious backdrop to the terraced lush green fields and traditional houses in the villages scattered close by. Overnight in Swanta village
Day 11: Trek to Ghorepani (3190m) approx 4-5 hrs
From Swanta village, we hike at our pace further along steep trails. Nature displays exotic sight of majestic snow-capped mountain peaks, lush vegetation and rich plant life before us. We climb through rhododendron forest to Deurali [3100m] and reach a hamlet and cultivated fields. We then continue walking for 3 hours and finally we will find ourselves in Ghorepani. Ghorepani also houses lodges to provide food and accommodation to travelers.
Day 12.Rest day at Ghorepani explor Day
Day 13: Trek to Tirkhedhunga (1540m) or Hille (1080m) 5-6 hrs
After a short hike along the banks of the Modi Khola, we reach Birethanti (1,015m) a large village with several shops and teahouses. From here, the trail continues through the village and follows the north bank of the Bhurungdi Khola. Our trail then climbs progressively up the side of the valley to Hille at 1,495m and after a brief climb, we reach Tikhedhunga at 1,570m. The hike today is pretty brief and easy going, a lead up to the most pleasant trekking styles in the Annapurna region.
Day 14: Trek to Nayapul (820m). Drive to Pokhara, half day sightseeing in Pokhara – Hotel – 4-5 hrs
Same day guided tour of Barahi Temple and Boating in Fewa Lake. From Jhinu hot springs we walk by the right banks of Modi Khola for 4.5 hrs to Birethanti which can be considered one of the best and the most relaxing hikes of the entire trek. We reach Nayapul and then it’s an hour drive which will take us back to serene Pokhara. We check into our hotel, refresh, have some tea and snacks and head out for a guided tour of Barahi temple, David’s fall and some lovely boating on the Fewa Lake. We then get back to our hotel and simply chill out.
Day 15: Fly / Drive to Kathmandu [1,330 m]
After breakfast in Pokhara, we have a mountain flight to Kathmandu; it is a thrilling exciting flight over forests, fields and villages with the Himalayas at the background. On arrival, we transfer to the hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Overnight stay at Hotel.
Day 16: Departure (Farewell)
Today is the end of your Trek to Mardi Himal. You will be dropped at the International airport 3 hours before your flight time by our representative. We hope you had a great time with us. Thank you, and have a safe journey.
Note: This itinerary is meant only as a guideline and is subject to change to suit the local conditions. Walking hours are based on an average walking pace and may change as per individual pace.
Free airport transfer on arrival and departures by private vehicles.
4 Nights hotel in Kathmandu with bed and breakfast basis.
2 night hotel in Pokhara with bed and breakfast basis.
Meals on a full-board basis (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner/ the main course) during the trek in the mountain.
Trekking lodges (Tea House) throughout the trek.
Adventure High Mountain experienced, government-licensed, English-speaking trekking guide.
Compressive first aid box (Guide will carry it throughout the trek).
All salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport, and insurance for the guide.
All necessary papers including Annapurna conservation permit and TIMS card (Trekking Information Management System).
All government, Local taxes, and official Expenses.
Pokhara to Kathmandu by bus/flight.
Kathmandu Sightseeing by Private Car/Van/Bus.
Farewell Dinner at a typical Nepalese restaurant with traditional music and dance.
International airfare.
Nepal entry visa and airport fees.
Personal equipment and clothing.
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, room service, extra hotel nights, extra meals, shopping, hot shower, hot and cold drinks, alcohols, snacks, water, Wi-Fi, battery re-charge, heater charge, etc.)
Personal porter.
Alcoholic and bottled beverages.
Travel insurance with trip cancellation, medical and evacuation policy.
All expenses associated with non-scheduled departure.
Guide Gratuity - Tipping is always a personal choice, but is greatly appreciated by your guides.
The following booking terms and conditions represent the contract between the customer and Adventure High Mountain. Adventure High Mountain is a government registered tour and trek company based in Kathmandu, Nepal, established with an aim to provide quality travel services.
At the time of booking, you are expected to read all the terms and conditions carefully. The booking confirmation will be given, thinking that you have read all the terms and conditions entitled by the core values of this company. After the booking process, you are completely obliged by the conditions mentioned below.
These booking conditions are only applied to the bookings you have made with this company.
The following terms and conditions apply, however the circumstances and regulations, contractual obligations to suppliers and affairs related to locations, and product type may slightly vary depending upon the situation.
$700 deposit at time of registration, which includes a $300 non-refundable registration fee.
Balance due 60 days prior to departure.
Payment must be paid in full prior to the beginning of the trek.
Bank Name : NEPAL INVESTMENT MEGA BANK LIMITED.
Beneficiary Name : ADVENTURE HIGH MOUNTAIN (P)LTD.
Account Number : 13201100003230
Swift Code: NIBLNPKT
Bank Address: Thamel, Saraswati Sadan - 29, Kathmandu Nepal.
We strongly recommend the purchase of travel cancellation insurance to protect you from the unexpected. You aren’t likely to think of it now, but people do get ill, break a bone, have a family emergency or get assigned to a last minute business trip. If you are in remote areas, please note that emergency rescue & evacuation can be very expensive.
We also strongly urge you to consider rescue and evacuation insurance if your own policy does not provide the coverage needed. Services available may include, but are not limited to, helicopter evacuation, medical care, etc.
If you choose not to purchase insurance, you assume full responsibility.