Khopra Ridge, Hidden Lake, and Glacier Trek
- 14
days
The Khopra Ridge, Hidden Lake, and Glacier Trek takes you to one of the rarely explored corners of the Annapurna Region. Trek along the isolated trails of the Khopra Ridge and visit the Hidden Lake or Khayer Lake, a sacred lake that is the resting place of a wish-fulfilling goddess. Walk along highland pastures and the summer camps of shepherds and yak herders. Descend to Annapurna South Base Camp via the highland pastures of Khayer and enter a glacial wonderland. Stand in awe of the impressive Himalayan giants that tower above 8000 and 7000 meters. On your return, you will hike along the world-famous Annapurna Base Camp trail.
This fourteen-day trekking adventure also takes you to the remote Magar and Gurung mountain settlements, where the indigenous communities have kept alive their ancient culture and traditions. If you make this trek during the full moon festival of Janai Purnima, you will be able to witness religious rituals complete with blood sacrifices to the guardian goddess of Hidden or Khayer Lake, who is known to fulfill the wishes of her devotees. The festival is also an auspicious time for shamans, or jhankris, to gather at the lake and perform rituals.
Your trip will begin in Kathmandu with a short flight to Pokhara. From Pokhara, you will take a scenic ride to Kimchi, the trailhead of Khopra Ridge, Hidden Lake, and Glacier Trek. You will trek to the Gurung Heritage Village of Ghandruk and spend the night at a local teahouse. The next day, you will make your way to Tadapani, a small hamlet set amidst one of the largest rhododendron forests in the world. During spring, the forests burst into pink, red, and white blooms, filling the trail with a heavenly ambiance.
The route to Khopra Ridge goes through a pristine wooded area with very few human settlements in between. This trail was only used by shepherds, cattle rearers, and pilgrims before the tourism department introduced it to tourists. As it can be accessed easily from Pokhara, the Khopra Ridge Trek is becoming quite popular among tourists. In a very short time, you will be able to get close to the Himalayan mountains and enjoy close-up views of 7000 and 8000-meter peaks.
A tough ascent from Bayeli Kharka will bring you to Khopra Ridge. Walk on the saddle of the ridge while savoring 360-degree views of Dhaulagiri, the seventh-highest mountain in the world, Nilgiri Himal, Tukuche, Annapurna Fang, and Annapurna South. The snowy spire of Annapurna Southrears directly in front of the trail. The landscape changes once you reach Khopra Ridge. You are high above the tree line, and the thick forests disappear, leaving you walking on green pastures (if it's spring or summer) filled with wildflowers. The path toKhayer Khola and Hidden Lake is well maintained, and stone staircases have been built on the steep, rocky sections.
You will spend an extra day at Khayer Khola to rest and acclimatize. The river originates from the Khayer, or Hidden Lake, and flows down. This is a sacred river where Hindu pilgrims bathe and purify themselves before heading to the Khayer Laketo worship at the goddess’s shrine.
Walk on the grassy highland, surrounded by snow-covered peaks. The raw beauty of nature is striking and impressive. In the following days, you will camp at Celli Kharka and Hidden Lake. Walk around the tranquil Hidden Lake, surrounded by craggy hills, and pay your respects at the shrine of Barahi Mata, the wish-fulfilling goddess of this lake.
Trek on the highland pastures high above the lake and cross a mountain pass to make a steep descent to Annapurna South Base Camp. This trail is only used by mountaineering expedition groups, and you will hardly find any trekkers here. Once you reach the Annapurna South Base Camp, revel in the beauty of the Annapurna South and the rest of the Annapurna Massif, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, etc. You will be surrounded by glaciers tumbling down from Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. It's a mesmerizing sight that you will cherish forever.
On the return leg of your trek, you will walk along the famous Annapurna Base Camp trail. The final leg of your trek will take you past the foot of the Fishtail Peak or Machapuchhre Base Camp, the dense bamboo and oak forests along the banks of the Modi Khola (river), and the charming Gurung settlements of Sinuwa, Chhomrong, and Jhinu Danda. Your trek ends with a ride from Matque to Pokhara. From Pokhara, you will catch a flight to Kathmandu and return to the capital city. Your trip will finally end in Kathmandu.
The Khopra Ridge, Hidden Lake, and Glacier Trek is a difficult trek recommended only for experienced trekkers. One needs to have experience in high-altitude trekking, as you will be walking at elevations close to 5000 meters. There are some steep ascents and descents en route, including exposed sections with sheer drop-offs.
While technical climbing is not necessary, one should be used to walking on hilly terrain to be able to do this trek. You can expect and snow on the trail during bad weather. An experienced local guide will guide on the trail.
The most favorable seasons to embark on this trek are spring and autumn. You can also do this trek during summer and early winter. However, you should be prepared to face extreme weather conditions during the off-season.
The Khopra Ridge, Hidden Lake, and Glacier Trek is highly recommended for those looking for a fresh and challenging trekking route in the Nepal Himalayas.
The trip's price depends on the type of services chosen by our clients and the group size. The cost of each trip we organize is different because we see travelers as individuals having their own particular needs and preferences.
Get ready for an incredible journey tailored to your interests and preferences, whether you're looking for a budget-friendly adventure or a luxurious getaway. Leave the planning to us as we take care of all the details, ensuring your dream trip becomes a reality. You can relax and focus on creating unforgettable memories that will stay with you forever.
| Day | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Kathmandu (1,400 m/4,593 ft) and trek preparation |
| Day 2 | Fly to Pokhara, drive to Kimchi, and trek to Ghandruk (1,940 m/6,365 ft) - 25 minutes flight, 2 to 3 hours drive, and 1 to 2 hours trek |
| Day 3 | Trek from Ghandruk to Tadapani (2,600 m/8,528 ft) - 4 to 5 hours trek |
| Day 4 | Trek from Tadapani to Bayeli Kharka (2,900 m/9,514 ft) - 6 to 7 hours trek |
| Day 5 | Trek from Bayeli Kharka to Khopra Ridge (3,660 m/12,006 ft) - 4 to 5 hours trek |
| Day 6 | Trek from Khopra Ridge to Khayer Khola (4,200 m/13,719 ft) - 3 to 4 hour s trek |
| Day 7 | Acclimatization Day at Khayer Khola (4,200 m/13,719 ft) |
| Day 8 | Trek from Khayer Khola to Celli Kharka ( 3,800 m/12,631 ft ) – 3 to 4 hours trek |
| Day 9 | Trek from Celli Kharka to Hidden Lake ( 4,250 m/13,943 ft ) – 4 to 5 hours trek |
| Day 10 | Trek from Hidden Lake to Annapurna South Base Camp ( 3,400 m / 11 , 154 ft ) - 6 to7 hours trek |
| Day 11 | Trek from Annapurna South Base Camp to Chhomrong ( 2,100 m/6,889 ft ) - 7 to 8 hours trek |
| Day 12 | Trek from Chhomrong to Matque (1,070 m) and drive to Pokhara – 3 to 4 hours walk and 3 hours drive |
| Day 13 | Afternoon flight to Kathmandu - 25 minutes |
| Day 14 | Final Departure |
If you arrive in Kathmandu during the daytime, you will be able to enjoy incredible views of the mountains and the Kathmandu Valley. On reaching the Tribhuvan International Airport, complete the immigration formalities and make your way toward the airport's terminal. You will find our guide waiting for you, holding a placard with your name or our company's name (Third Rock Adventures) written on it. After welcoming you, he will escort you to your hotel and help with the check-in. Take a brief rest.
Later in the day, you will meet your trekking guide, who will brief you about your Khopra Ridge, Hidden Lake and Glacier Trek. If you want to rent or shop for trekking gear, you can do it in Thamel. You will find a whole lot of shops and outlets selling and renting out branded as well as ordinary gear and equipment. You can also shop for your snacks, as there will be very few shops on the trail. Things are also pretty expensive on the mountain. So it's better to stock up on whatever you may need in the mountains.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Ghandruk Village - one of the most famous Gurung villages that has preserved the culture and traditions of the Gurungs, an ethnic mountain community
Have your breakfast and get ready to fly to Pokhara. Our vehicle will drop you off at the domestic airport, where you will catch one of the early flights to Pokhara. If the weather is clear, you can savor views of the Langtang Range, Dhaulagiri Range, Manaslu, and the Annapurna Range.
On reaching Pokhara, you will board a vehicle bound for Kimchi, the trailhead of the trek. The ride is filled with refreshing views of green hills, rural towns and villages, streams, paddy fields, and the snow-covered spires of Fishtail Peak and Annapurna South. While the first few kilometers pass smoothly and are paved, the condition of the road deteriorates as you head deep into the mountains. Depending on the condition of the road, you will arrive at Kimchi in 3 or 4 hours.
From Kimchi, you will start your trek and head towards the Gurung Heritage Village of Ghandruk. Enjoy the scenic views as you hike to the village. You will reach the village after a brisk hike of about an hour or two.
Ghandrukis the largest village along the ABC route. The sprawling village is filled with old traditional houses and new concrete buildings. There's a museum in the village where one can get an insight into the culture and lifestyle of the Gurung people. Terrific views of snowcapped Annapurna South, Gangapurna, and Hiunchuli can be enjoyed from the village. Once in the village, walk to a comfortable guesthouse run by a local family and stay the night.
Overnight in Ghandruk.
Colourful rhododendrons bloom on the way to Kopra Danda Trek
After breakfast, you will leave Ghandruk and trek towards Tadapani. As you leave the village, enjoy mesmerizing views of the Himalayas. The path out of the village is even and easy. Once you enter the dense forest, the trail goes up and down. The path goes deep into a pristine jungle filled with oak and rhododendron trees and streams. You will stop at Bhaisi Kharka en route to have lunch. After lunch, it will only take about an hour to reach today's destination, Tadapani.
The Gurung village of Tadapani is one of the most picturesque villages in the Annapurna Region. It is an important stop along the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek route. The village is surrounded by one of the largest rhododendron forests in the world. Panoramic views of Machapuchhre, or Fishtail Peak, Annapurna South, Gangapurna, and Hiunchuli can be savored from the village. Follow your guide to a teahouse and take a rest.
Overnight in Tadapani.
Captivating panorama of Annapurna South's majestic mountainous expanse.
Wake up early to enjoy the sunrise over the Himalayan mountains. Later, get ready to start your hike. Today's trek is going to take you past some of the least-inhabited areas in the Annapurna region. There are not many villages en route, and you will be walking on a wild trail. Also, there is less tourist traffic along this route, and you can enjoy your walk in peace. The trail goes through a thick forest of moss-covered rhododendron and oak trees. If it's springtime, the trees and trail will be filled with pink rhododendron blooms.
After a tough uphill hike, you will reach Bayeli Kharka, a grazing pasture for yaks and sheep. The place, surrounded by a humongous rhododendron forest, has a couple of teahouses. You will stay overnight at one of the teahouses.
Overnight in Bayeli Kharka.
Khopra Ridge Area (12,006 ft)
Leaving Bayeli Kharka, you will head towards Khopra Ridge. The route is secluded, with only a couple of yak herder's camps en route. Very few trekkers or locals take this route. The trail is filled with gorgeous forests of rhododendron and oak. The rhododendron forest, covered with pink and red blooms, looks heavenly during springtime. You can enjoy your hike in solitude, surrounded by pristine nature. There are some steep uphills and downhills, and you need to be careful walking on the narrow trails with exposed sides. The final leg of the trek involves ascending a steep hill up toKhopra Ridge. On reaching Khopra, you will check into the community lodge and have a well-deserved rest.
The Khopra Community Lodge is operated by the local community. While the amenities are basic, there's good mobile and internet network coverage. A brainchild of Myagdi native Mahabir Pun, a techie, social entrepreneur, and activist, the Khopra Community Lodge was established to facilitate the tourists walking on this new trail.
Unlike the Annapurna Base Camp and Ghorepani Poon Hill trails, the Khopra Danda trail is relatively new. This trail was only used by Magar shepherds and cattle rearers before it was opened for tourists.
The Khopra Danda, or Ridge, is regarded as a sacred place by locals. As per the locals, 'kho' means 'pure’, and 'para' means buffalo. Before yaks were introduced in this region, summer camps for buffaloes were built here. One can still see the ruins of sheds and huts used by the cattle herders. The rich grassy pastures above the Khopra Ridge are the summer grazing grounds of sheep and yaks. The herders spend the whole summer on this highland and migrate to the lower reaches as winter approaches.
The route to Khora Ridge doesn't offer many views of the mountains, but once you reach the ridge, the views open up, and you will be able to savor stunning views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Nilgiri Himal, Baraha Shikhar, Tukuche, etc. You will be able to enjoy the whole view of Dhaulagiri, from the base to the summit.
Overnight in Khopra Ridge.
Khopra Ridge to Khayer Khola
Leaving Khopra Ridge, you will make your way towards Khayer Khola. The trail winds up and follows the saddle of the Khopra Ridge. Enjoy 360-degree views of the mighty Himalayas. You can get a full view of Dhaulagiri (from base to summit), the highest in the world, rearing in the distance. Close to Dhaulagiri stand Gurja Himal, Nilgiri, Tukuche, Baraha Shikhar, Mardi, and AnnapurnaSouth, which rises close to the trail.
The first half of the trek is easy walking on the ridge and the side of the hill. Later, you will make an ascent up a stone staircase and reach the Khayer Khola. The Khayer Khola flows down from the sacred Khayer Lake. The landscape at this point is different from the lower reaches. There are no trees, and only stubby grasses cover the landscape. If you are doing this trek during the summer, you will be greeted with green pastures where herds of sheep and yaks will be grazing. This is the highest summer grazing pasture for sheep and yaks. Shepherds and yak herders make their way from the Magar villages of Swanta, Chistibung, Paudwar, etc. with their herds to spend the summer at these high-altitude grassy pastures.
At Khayer Khola, you will stay overnight at a local teahouse.
Overnight inKhayer Khola.
You will spend a day at Khayer Khola resting and exploring the nearby pastures. Khayer Khola is located in an isolated spot far away from civilization. There are no villages for miles on end, and only pristine nature surrounds the landscape.
During the Janai Purnima (Full Moon Summer Festival) held during the Nepali month of Shrawan (July or August), devotees heading to the sacred Khayer Lake take a bath in the river and purify themselves before proceeding to the lake to pray to the guardian goddess of the lake (Barahi Mata). The lakeside shrine of the goddess is an important pilgrimage site for locals who wish to ask for a boon. It's believed that one should return to the shrine after the wish is fulfilled and thank the goddess. People generally offer animal sacrifices (sheep or fowl) to the goddess. Shamans, or jhankris, also flock to this lake during the Janai Purnima Festival.
Enjoy your rest day at Khayer Khola, exploring the area and drinking in the gorgeous views.
Overnight in KhayerKhola.
Trek from Khayer Khola to Celli Kharka ( 3,800 m/12,631 ft ) – 3 to 4 hours trek
After spending a restful day at Khayer Khola, it's time to proceed further. Leaving Khayer Khola, you will head towards Celli Kharka. 'Kharka' means a summer grazing pasture, and during spring and summer, the grounds are covered with fresh and green grasses. The highland looks beautiful covered in wildflowers during these seasons. Savor your hike in this beautiful corner of the Annapurna Region. Connect with nature and feel the peaceful ambiance. Head to teahouse and spend the night.
Overnight in Celli Kharka.
Lake side ( 13,943 ft )
Leaving Celli Kharka, you will walk towards the Hidden Lake. Known as Khayer Lake, this sacred lake lies ensconced in a deep and hidden bowl-shaped crater surrounded by craggy hills and grassy pastures.
This lake is a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus who flock to this lake during the Janai Purnima (full moon of summer) festival to ask for a boon and to thank the goddess. Locals believe that the Barahi Mata, or goddess of the lake, fulfills the wishes of her devotees on the condition that they return to her shrine after their wishes are fulfilled. The priest acts as a mediator between the goddess and the devotees, stands on the lake's water, and invokes the goddess to listen to each of the devotee's prayers as well as receive their gratitude. Animal sacrifices are offered to the goddess by grateful devotees whose wishes have been fulfilled. The shamans, or jhankris, can also be seen at the Khayer Lake during this time performing sacred rituals.
Lined with small stone shrines, one can feel a strong spiritual vibe at this lake.
Since you are at a high altitude, there's always the risk of altitude sickness. So make sure to keep yourself hydrated and warm.
Overnight in Hidden Lake.
Wake up early in the morning to catch the sunrise over the mighty Himalayan mountains. It's a heavenly sight as the warm rays of the sun touch the white summits and change their color from red, orange, and pink to honey-golden. The lake looks equally mesmerizing. After a hearty meal, you will begin your trek and head to your destination, the Annapurna South Base Camp. This highland trail filled with wildflowers (during spring and summer) and green pastures is one of the most beautiful in the Annapurna Region.
Take the trail up the lake and walk on the ridge. Enjoy the close-up view of Annapurna South and the massive frosted chunk of Dhaulagiri rearing in the distance. You can see the entire Dhaulagiri Himal from the base to the summit. Rearing close to it are the Nilgiri Himal and Baraha Sikhar, or Annapurna Fang.
The gigantic face of Annapurna South stands right before you. Later, take a steep descent to the Annapurna South Base Camp via a mountain pass. This portion of the trail is rarely used by trekkers. Only mountaineering expedition groups heading to conquer Annapurna South via theKhopra Ridge route take this trail.
The Annapurna South Base Camp offers mesmerizing views of the glacier between Annapurna South and Hiunchuli and close-up views of the two mountains as well as Gangapurna, Annapurna I, II, III, and IV. Savor the beautiful views and take pictures. If the night sky is clear, you can enjoy stunning views of the Milky Way galaxy. The starlit view of the sky and the silhouette of the mighty Himalayan mountains are worth capturing with your camera. You can also meet climbers preparing to summit the mountain during climbing season.
Overnight in Annapurna South Base Camp.
Wake up before sunrise, while it's still dark, and head outside. Witness the sunrise over the towering spires of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Gangapurna, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, and Annapurna IV. Enjoy this mesmerizing sight and take pictures.
The heavenly view of the glaciers and snow-covered summits glowing in the warm golden light of the early morning sun is a sight that you will cherish forever. Later, have breakfast and start your descent to Chomrong. It's a long way down to Chomrong, so you keep a brisk pace.
Along the way, enjoy close-up views of Machhapuchhre or Fishtail Peak from the MachhapuchreBase Camp (MBC). This is one of the highest peaks in Nepal that hasn't been climbed. Climbing activities are barred on this mountain, as this is a sacred mountain for the locals. The Gurungs believe that their guardian deities reside on this mountain, so stepping on the mountain is strictly prohibited.
After crossing the MBC, you will enter a deep valley surrounded by tall mountains. This part of the trail is easy and filled with amazing views. Later, follow an up-and-down trail to Himalaya, Bamboo, and Sinuwa. The trail over here is covered with thick forests of bamboo and oak. After spending days in the stark and raw environment above the treeline, the walk past the dense growth of moss-covered trees provides a welcome change.
You will stop at one of the villages for lunch. You will have to ascend and descend a stone staircase before finally arriving at the Gurung village, Chhomrong. The charming landscape, filled with terraced fields and pretty stone cottages with marigold flower beds, is sure to cheer you up after that long and tiring hike. Head to a local teahouse with a nice view of the mountains and get settled for the night.
Overnight in Chhomrong.
Wake up to a beautiful sunrise over the snow-covered Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna. After a quick breakfast, it's time to hit the trail. You can look ahead to more descents and some ascents on the long stone staircase today. There will be river crossings on swaying metal bridges and stops at pretty villages for rest and refreshment.
Start your hike with a descent via the stone staircase. It's downhill all the way to Jhinu Danda, a village famous for its hot springs. Savor your hike, as this is the last leg of your trek. From JhinuDanda, you will cross the Modi Khola via the Kadoorie Bridge. Also known as the Jhinu Danda Bridge, this metal suspension bridge is 287 meters long and is the longest bridge on the ABC trail. After crossing the bridge, you will take a gentle ascent up to Matque. Head towards the bus and jeep park and take a vehicle back to Pokhara. Enjoy the scenic views of mountains, waterfalls, rivers, and rural settlements during your ride. On reaching Pokhara, check into your hotel and take a rest.
You can relax at the hotel or explore Pokhara on your own. Pokhara is a popular tourist destination. It is known for its picturesque location (flanked by the peaceful Phewa Lake and Fishtail Peak) and restful vibe.
If you are not too tired, you can take a stroll beside the Phewa Lake in the evening and experience the nightlife in Pokhara. The city has a lot of good restaurants, cafes, and clubs where you can dine out and enjoy a good meal.
Overnight in Pokhara.
You can spend the morning relaxing at your hotel or visiting the tourist sites in Pokhara. The sightseeing tour is not included in the trip cost, so if you want to book a tour, you will have to do it at your own expense. We can help you book a tour if you wish at an added cost. You can also book a taxi and visit the sites by yourself.
The most popular tourist attractions in Pokhara are the Phewa Lake, Peace Stupa, Sarangkot View point, Gupteshwar Cave, International Mountain Museum, and Bindyabasini Temple. Late in the afternoon, head to the Pokhara Airport to catch your flight back to Kathmandu. On reaching Kathmandu, you will be escorted to your hotel by your guide. Explore a bit of Thamel and shop for souvenirs before calling it a night.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Today marks the end of your Khopra Ridge, Hidden Lake and Glacier Trek. Bid goodbye to Kathmandu and head towards the airport. Our driver will drop you off at Tribhuvan International Airport on time to catch your scheduled flight. If you wish to explore more regions in the Himalayas, please let us know. We run tours in Bhutan, India, and Tibet too.
