Khopra Ridge Trekking

Khopra Ridge Trekking

Khopra Ridge Trekking

Khopra Ridge (Danda) Trek is a suitable trek for  trekkers in search of new destination in the Annapurna region. Annapurna Dhaulagiri trek offers such a rich variety of spectacular scenery, peace and isolation and experience of so many diverse Himalayan Culture. The panoramic sunrise view of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Nilgiri, etc. The trial is a recently opened trekking trial in the Annapurna region leading you to experience the warm hospitality of Gurung and Magar people. Throughout the trekking in the Khopra Ridge trekking route we stay at community operated lodges whose profits are contributed for the welfare of local schools and people living in this region. Khopra Ridge Trek offers many gripping traditional villages, beautiful forests and occasionally trekkes high alpine pastures with the enchanting Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

Trip Details

  • Itinerary
  • Detail Itinerary
  • Trip Info
  • Weather
  • Equipment
  • Useful Info

Itinerary:

Day 01:
Arrival in Kathmandu [1,338m] Transfer to the Hotel Manag or Similar.

Day 02: Drive to Pokhara [970 m]. (06-07 Hrs.). "B".   Hotel Peninsula or Similar.

Day 03: Drive to Ghandruk [1,945 m]. (03-04 Hrs), Trek to Tadapani [2,657 m]. "B,L,D". Trek (03-04 Hrs). Normal Tea House.

Day 04: Trek to Dobato [3,420 m]."B,L,D". Trek (05-06 Hrs). Normal Tea House.

Day 05:
Trek to upper Chistibung [2,950 m]. "B,L,D". Trek (05-06 Hrs). Normal Tea House.

Day 06:
Trek to Kopra Ridge [3,650 m]. "B,L,D". Trek (03-04 Hrs). Normal Tea House.

Day 07:
Trek to Swanta. [2,290 m]. "B,L,D". Trek (06-07 Hrs). Normal Tea House.

Day 08:
Trek to Ghorepani (2810m). "B,L,D". Trek (05-06 Hrs). Normal Tea House.

Day 09:
(Sunrise trip to Punhill) Trek to Trikhedunga. [1,545 m]. ("B,L,D". Trek (05-06 Hrs). Normal Tea House.

Day 10:
Trek to Nayapul Drive to Pokhara [970 m]. "B,L,D". Trek (03-04 Hrs and 1.30 M drive). Hotel Peninsula or Similar.

Day 11:
Fly back oo Kathmandu [1,338m]. “B”. (Car+Flight+Car). Hotel Manang or Similar.

Day 12:
Trip ends! Fly back home, taking with you the memory of a life time. “B”.


Note: If the above itinerary does not meet your needs, we can design individualized travel plans based on your preferences.

Detail Itinerary:

Day 01: Arrival to Kathmandu [1,330 m]:
Representative from Adventure Treks Nepal will be waiting outside the airport according to your fight time who will transfer you to the hotel. A short briefing will be done after you have settled down. If you have any queries please do let us know. Overnight in Hotel.

Day 02: Drive to Pokhara [970 m] - (B): Early in the morning, we drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara, Nepal's lake city. Our bus follows a winding road over the valley rim and descends onto the Trisuli River. The journey is slow and steady as the road winds through villages and passing terrace fields before reaching our destination.

Pokhara is best known for its tranquil atmosphere and the beauty of the surrounding countryside. Normally, we arrive by mid afternoon so you have time to explore or relax as you prepare for the journey ahead.  Overnight in Hotel.

Day 03: Drive to Ghandruk [1,945 m], Trek to Tadapani [2,450 m] - (B,L,D): After breakfast we start our driving around 03-04 hour to Ghandruk, a beautiful village mostly inhabited by the Gurung community. We will have a lunch in Ghandruk. After lunch if time permits, we visit the Gurung museum. After lunch we start our trekking to Tadapani by gradually ascending. The trail today offers magnificent view of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli followed by a walk inside Rhododendron and Oak forests and a small river joining us during the trek but flowing in the opposite direction. The trail today doesn’t have any human settlements except few Teahouses at Bhaisi Kharka. The views of Annapurna II (7937m), Annapurna III (7555m), Annapurna IV (7525m), Annapurna South (7,237m), Machhapuchhare (6993m) and Lamjung Himal (6931m) is just awe-inspiring from Tadapani which also offers glorious sunrise views. Overnight in Tea house. (Walking hour 3-4 hours).

Day 04: Trek to Dobato [3,420 m] - (B): From Tadapani we leave the trail towards Ghorepani and trek inside the Rhododendron forest which takes us to local water buffalo pastures. The trail from Today is comparatively less crowded which offers great trekking experience. We continue trekking higher eventually above the tree line with Annapurna Himalayan range standing tall in front of us. After Lunch near a small stream, we continue towards a small pass and descend through rhododendron forests and reach Dobato. Overnight in Tea house. (Walking hour 5-6 hours).

Day 05: Trek to Upper Chistibung [2,950 m] - (B,L,D): The initial trail today is a descend through open ground and forests to arrive at the pastures of Lower Chistibung, our lunch stop for today. We slowly continu climbing uphill passing many buffalo grazing pastures to reach Upper Chistibung where we will be spending the night. Overnight in Tea house. (Walking hour 5-6 hours).

Day 06: Trek Kopra Ridge [3,600 m] - (B,L,D): After breakfast we resume our trek towards Khayer Lake. On this day we trek above tree line while watching out for Himalayan Thar and Danphe Pheasant. The trail today is mostly uphill so we trek without any hustle with breaks to observe the natural beauty of this region. When we reach Khopra Ridge Annapurna South and Nilgiri welcome us with exceptional panoramic view. Overnight in Tea house. (Walking hour 3-4 hours).

Day 07: Trek to Swanta [2,200 m] - (B,L,D): After your breakfast we start our way back towards Pokhara via Poonhill. The trail today is steep downhill. We unwaveringly descend to Chistibung from where we turn towards Poonhill. We stop at the village of Swanta for overnight stay. Overnight in Teahouse. (Walking hour 5-6 hours).

Day 08: Trek to Ghorepani [2,810 m] - (B,L,D): From Swanta we descend through the village fields to a small river and take a quick look at the local water mill. From here we cross the suspension bridge and head upwards to the village of Chittre. Here we join the main trekking trail and it is a further ascent to reach the village of Ghorepani where there are great views of the Dhaulagiri massif. Overnight in Tea house. (Walking hour 4-5 hours).

Day 09: Sunrise trip to Poonhill then trek to Trikhedhunga [1,540m] - (B,L,D): You guide will check the sunrise time and will inform you during the dinner in previous day. We start early morning towards Poonhill, one of the best place to view sunrise from where we witness magical sunrise over Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, Nilgiri, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Hiunchuli and many other peaks. After spending sometime at the view point we descend back to Ghorepani for breakfast. After breakfast trek to Trikhedhuga. The trail passes through settlemts at Nangethanti, Ulleri, Banthanti before finally reaching Trikhedhunga. Overnight in Tea house. (Walking hour 4-5 hours )

Day 10: Trek to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara [980 m] - (B,L): Today is the last day of the trek. We start our trek after breakfast towards Nayapul, which translates New Bridge in Nepali. We trek along the Burungdi River crossing few suspension bridges during today’s trek. After reaching Nayapul, we drive to Pokhara. Overnight in Hotel. (Walking time 03-04 Hrs and drive 1.30 hrs).

Day 11: Mountain Flight to Kathmandu [1,338m] - (B): 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 in Hotel. (22-25 m flight).


Day 12: Fly back home - (B): A representative from Adventure Treks Nepal will drop you to the airport according to your flight time. Trip ends. “NAMASTE!”.

Trip Cost Includes:

  • Arrival and Departure Transport.
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast.
  • Duffle Bag using for Trekking.
  • Breakfast (With cup of Tea or Coffee), Lunch & Dinner (Without ) during the Trekking.
  • Accommodation in Tea house (mountain lodge) while trekking. (In Khopra can be Dormitory sometimes).
  • Pokhara-Ghandruk and Nayapul Pokhara Transport.
  • Kathmandu -Pokhara drive and Pokhara - Kathmandu flights with airport Tax.
  • Trekking Porters with insurance. (We provide 01 Porter for 02 People carrying abt. 22 KG).
  • Trekking Guide with insurance.
  • Trekking guide and porters food and accommodation, wages etc.
  • First Aid kit.
  • Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trekking Region map.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) entry permit fee.
  • Trekker’s Information Management system (TIMS).
  • All Government taxes.
  • Office service charge.

Trip Cost Excludes:

  • International Airfare.
  • Your travel insurance of any kind
  • Nepal entry Visa fee (US$ 30 for 15 days you should get visa open your arrival)
  • Drinks, Dessert, Juice, Mineral Water, Extra Tea/Coffee, Hot Shower during the Trekking and main meals in cities. 
  • Tips for Guides, Porters and drivers.

 

Weather information

We offer trekking in Nepal from September to May. However within this period there are clear seasons in the weather. From early September the monsoon rains decrease. By mid-October through to December the weather is usually stable with mild to warm days, cold nights and clear views. Daytime temperatures can reach 25-30 deg C at low altitude in October and nights can drop to below 0 deg C at higher altitudes.

Winter trekking, from December to February, offers cool to mild and clear days with often very cold nights. Daytime temperatures at low altitudes will be mild, around 20 deg C and at night may drop to 0 or as low as -10 deg C at the higher points. Occasionally winter storms can bring snow as low as 2500m.

In March the cold, dry winter season begins to give way to warmer, wetter spring conditions. Mornings are usually clear with cloud build-up occasionally bringing afternoon rainstorms. Daytime temperatures increase quickly in March, with temperatures of up to 30 deg C and mild nights at low altitudes. The increase in rainfall in the hills is more than compensated for by the spectacular displays of rhododendrons and other wildflowers at this time of year. Late spring conditions, as in April and May, are generally hot at low elevations and as the clouds build up to the next monsoon, daily afternoon rainstorms are common. This is a period that generally has clear weather at the higher altitudes and is traditionally a time when mountaineering expeditions commence their ascents.

The monsoon creates a rainy season in Nepal, which lasts from mid-June to mid-September. During this time the Nepal Himalaya is unsuitable for trekking, with the exception of a few remote valleys. We offer treks during this period in Low altitude Treks in the Nepal Himalaya, Tibet & India (Kulu, Ladakh).

The post-monsoon period: From early September the monsoon rain starts to decrease. By mid-October through to mid-December the weather is usually stable with mild to warm days, cold nights and clear views. Daytime temperatures can reach 25-30 degrees Celsius at lower altitudes and decrease as you gain height. Over 3000 meters the daytime temperatures can vary as much as 10 to 20 degrees Celsius, and may be hotter or colder, depending on whether it is sunny or windy etc. At night at lower altitudes, temperatures do not normally drop much, although as you approach November it does get colder and the days shorter. Up high it can drop sharply at night, from 0 to minus 10 or 15 and more when camped on the ice or snow.

The pre-monsoon period: In March the cold, dry winter season begins to give way to warmer, wetter spring conditions. Mornings are usually clear with cloud build-up bringing occasional afternoon rainstorms. Views of the mountains in the middle of the day and afternoon may often be obscured. Daytime temperatures increase quickly in March with temperatures of up to 30 degrees Celsius and mild nights. At higher altitudes it is similar to the conditions of the post-monsoon period, however there is usually more snow, which has accumulated over the winter period. There are spectacular displays of rhododendrons and wildflowers at this time of year. Late spring conditions ie April and May, are generally hot at low elevations and as the clouds build up to the next monsoon, daily afternoon rainstorms are common.

List of Clothing Equipments & Personal Effects

  • Lightweight Trekking (walking) (Waterproof) boots and spare laces. If new one is being bought, “walk then in” to avoid blisters. Also bring spare laces.
  • A pair of track shoes for evening and walk around campsite.
  • Warm Jackets (Fiber fill or down) down should be adequate.
  • A rainproof jacket with hood or ponchos (Get guaranteed Waterproof)
  • Woolen shirts and thick sweaters.
  • A pair of lightweight/heavyweight trousers. Jeans are unsuitable to wear on treks.
  • Thermal underwear.
  • A tracksuit.
  • 2 pair of loose fitting long shorts/skirts.
  • Few pairs of cotton T-shirts.
  • At least 1 lightweight long sleeved shirt is particularly to avoid sun born.
  • A woolen hat for morning and evening and Sun cap (Hat) during the day and ensure it has a wide brim to cover the face and neck..
  • A pair of gloves.
  • A pair of sandals to shower and campsite.
  • Few pair of thin and thick woolen socks.
  • Underwear: normal quantity and swimming costume.
  • Sleeping bags for night. (At least -20 Celsius)

Equipment and Accessories

  • Duffle bag or kit bag to carry gears while trekking. (We provide)
  • Daypack to carry personal day requirements. (25-30 Ltr) This is a small rucksack to carry personal requirement for the day
  • Water bottle.
  • Snow glasses and sunglasses.
  • 2-5 large plastic bags to separate clean and dirty clothes.
  • Toiletries with large and small towels. Toilet paper can be by in Kathmandu and some villages in the mountains.
  • Headlamp or torch light with spare batteries and bulbs.
  • Snow gaiters essential during winter and High Altitude trekking.
  • Walking poles. (If you like to have).
  • Camera with spare batteries and films
  • Reading materials, game items (optional), note book, rubber band, pen and pencil, envelopes, a diary, a calendar, a pocket knife, binoculars (optional), a small pillow or headrest (optional). Thermoses (optional)- an inflatable sleeping mat, trekking map, adequate quantities of
  • passport photograph
  • First aid kit with enough Personal medicine.

Physically prepare yourself: It is important that your body is adequately prepared for the physical challenges of trekking. It is thus important that you assess your own condition and train accordingly. In general, the fitter you are, the easier it will be for you to handle the rigors of the trek. A well-rounded training program would include strength training, aerobic cross training, and hiking (ideally at high altitude but not necessary).

Mentally prepare yourself: Mental preparation is often overlooked. You should always keep a positive state of mind, but not ignore the signals your body sends you. Your mental stamina will, without a doubt, make the most difficult parts of the trekachievable.

We will keep the packing list update asnew equipment becomes available. If you have reviews or suggestions please send us an email.

Trekking in Nepal need not be considered risky affair as far as your health is concerned. Nevertheless, preventive measures such as a through medical checkup and inoculations before you start trekking can save you from unexpected hazards. Since the remote places of Nepal are not supplied with necessities that are essential for modern medical facilities and as the rescue and evacuation are measured in days, it is imperative to make a comprehensive first aid box consisting of basic drugs and accessories as part of the paraphernalia for trekking. Modern dentistry is unknown in the hill of Nepal so it is advised to have a checkup before departure from home. Tooth fillings; sometimes loosen in cold temperatures and high altitudes, so it is recommended to have them checked. Travelers are requested to bring medicine prescribed by their doctor at home. Common medicine for stomach problems, headache, and malaria is available in Kathmandu. Medicine is usually not available in remote areas. So necessary medicine is advisable to carry with you. Before going to Nepal, it is advised to get injections against typhoid, meningitis and hepatitis.

OVERCOMING ALTITUDE PROBLEM: This is often known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), which is particularly a matter of important medical consideration while trekking in the Himalayas. Altitude Sickness means the effect of altitude on those who ascend too rapidly to elevations above 3000 meters. Early mountain sickness will manifest itself in headache, nausea, shortness of breath, fatigue; etc can be encountered as initials of the sickness. The major information source on prevention and treatment of the sickness is Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) and Adventure Treks Nepal (P). Ltd. is the confide life member of it. We assure every trekker that all our guides have followed the training conducted by HRA with the understated information.

CAUSE/FACTOR OF ALTITUDE SICKNESS
1. Less Oxygen
2. Low Pressure i.e. Barometric Pressure
3. Rapid Ascent
4. Possible Dehydration
5. Hypothermia TYPE OF ALTITUDE SICKNESS

  TYPES ALTITUDE SICKNESS
1. AMS - Acute Mountain Sickness
2. HAPE - High Altitude Pulmonary Edema
3. Hace - High Altitude Cerebral Edema

SYMPTOMS:

1. (AMS) ACUTE MOUNTAIN SICKNESS

Mild symptom feels like hangover/not feeling good

a. Headache
b. Fatigue/Tiredness
c. Nausea
d. Shortness of breath
e. Loss of appetite
f. Sleep disturbance
g. Dizziness

2. (HAPE) HIGH ALTITUDE PULMONARY EDEMA (Water in lungs)
a. Increasing shortness of breath even at rest
b. Severe cough-dry/Productive
c. Very tired-Unusual fatigue while walking
d. High Pulse rate i.e. 110
e. Blueness of face, lips, finger nails that means inability to transport Oxygen into the blood

3. (HACE) HIGH ALTITUDE CEREBRAL EDEMA (Water in the head)
Severe symptoms of altitude sickness
a. Severe Headache
b. Vomiting
c. Walking like a drunk (Ataxia)
d. Mental confusion/Altered mental status
e. Irritable-Does not want to be bothered by other people
f. Unconsciousness or Coma
TEST - Tandem walking test, Heel to toe step fall off from the line.

DECISION MAKING
1. Find out the main problem i.e. at altitude. Assume all problems are Altitude Sickness unless proven otherwise.
2. If it is an altitude problem with mild symptoms, stay at the same altitude until the symptoms are completely gone. Take an Aspirin tablet, try to go up but listen to your body. If symptoms are worsening, go down.

PREVENTION
1. Acclimatization: - After a 1000m. Ascent, stay one more night for acclimatization.
2. Do not make RAPID ASCENT; don't go too fast too high.
3. No alcohol, sleeping pills and smoking.
4. Drink more fluid 3-4ltrs a day… clean, boiled or treated water/tea/coffee/soup/juice etc.
5. Do not carry heavy packs.
6. Climb higher sleep lower.
7. Do not travel alone.

TREATMENT
1. DESCENT is the best medicine; do not wait for the Helicopter.
2. Medicine:
a. Oxygen.
b. Diamox…for AMS 125mg. Before dinner, for sleeping problem if feeling suffocated.
c. Nafedipine for HAPE
d. Steroids/Dexamethasone for HACE
3. Hyperbolic Bag - Gammow Bag
4. Golden Rules
a. Awareness of ALTITUDE SICKNESS
b. If you have mild symptoms, do not go higher. Take Aspirin.
c. If you have worsening symptoms, go down.
d. Do not leave your team member behind unattended, either trekker or porter.
5. IMPORTANT
a. Go up slowly.
b. Drink plenty of fluids (at least 3 liters per day)
c. Get all information about Altitude Sickness before your trekking tour that will make you confident to make your tour successful.

Our advice: Drink 3-4 ltr of water minimum a day, don't exhaust yourself so much and breathe deep and take rest more than usual.

Physically prepare yourself: It is important that your body is adequately prepared for the physical challenges of trekking. It is thus important that you assess your own condition and train accordingly. In general, the fitter you are, the easier it will be for you to handle the rigors of the trek. A well-rounded training program would include strength training, aerobic cross training, and hiking (ideally at high altitude but not necessary).

Mentally prepare yourself: Mental preparation is often overlooked. You should always keep a positive state of mind, but not ignore the signals your body sends you. Your mental stamina will, without a doubt, make the most difficult parts of the trekachievable.

We will keep the packing list update asnew equipment becomes available. If you have reviews or suggestions please send us an email.