Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek
Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek
Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek

Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek

Duration13 Days
Trip GradeEasy
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude4560 M
Group Size1-12
StartsKathmandu / Pokhara
EndsPokhara / Kathmandu
ActivitiesTrekking / Hiking
Best TimeThrough Out the Year

Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek Highlights

  • Shortest off-beat path suitable for family trek
  • Actual knowledge about the Magar and Gurung lifestyle, culture, and tradition
  • Dense forests of pine, oak, bamboo, and rhododendron of ACAP
  • Sunrise view from Poon Hill (3,210m) as well as sunrise and sunset view from Khopra Danda
  • 360-degree view of Annapurna (8,091m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Mt. Nilgiri (7,061m), Mt. Fishtail (6,993m) and Lamjung Himal (6,983m), Barha Shikhar (7,647m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Hiunchuli (6,434m), Tukuche Peak (6,920m)
  • Less risk of altitude sickness
  • Customizable to Jomsom Trek and Annapurna Base Camp trek

Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek Overview

Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek is a newly introduced trekking destination of Nepal. It is one of the shortest off the beaten path trek that takes you around Annapurna region. This trek rewards you with the amazing combination of nature and culture.

Khopra Ridge trek combines Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, which is popular for its captivating sunrise view. Ghorpani Poon Hill trek (also known as Annapurna Sunrise View trek) rewards you with the amazing sunrise and sunset view of the region.

From the top of a 3,210 m-high-hill, you see Annapurna (8,091 m), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Mt. Nilgiri (7,061 m), Mt. Fishtail (6,993 m) and Lamjung Himal (6,983 m). The other peaks seen during this trek are Barha Shikhar (7,647 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Hiunchuli (6,434 m), Tukuche Peak (6,920 m) and so on.

As the trekking destination lies in Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), you will also sight the flora and fauna. Walking along the dense bamboo, pine, oak and rhododendron forests, you come to see some animals and birds.

The lifestyle, culture and tradition of the Gurung and Magar communities make this trek a lifelong memory. You get to know the actual information about their customs and costumes including typical cuisines.

Khopra Danda (Khopra Ridge) is just 3,660 m high that provides the best sunrise and sunset view like that of Poon Hill. The snow capped peaks seen from Poon Hill viewpoint are seen right from this ridge but from a different angle.

You can also visit Khayer Lake by keeping an exploration day at Khopra Danda. Khopra Danda Khayer Lake trek takes you to a famous pilgrimage site of the Hindus. On Janai Purnima Festival, thousands of the Hindu people visit this lake for taking a dip into the holy water. Janai Purnima Festival falls on Full Moon day of Shrawan (the 4th month of Nepali Calendar).

Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek Itinerary

Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek itinerary ranges from 5 days to 14 days and even longer. If you want to visit Khopra Danda only for the brilliant sunrise view, you can customize it up to 5 days. It is possible to cut short the two-weeks-long trek into just 5 days due to the transportation facilities.

This trek is specially designed to let you know more about the Gurung and Magar culture and tradition. The villages like Ghorepani, Tadapani, Bayali Kharka, Khopra Danda, Ghandruk are all Gurung villages. You can observe their customs and costumes during this leisurely trek. Ulleri is a Magar village of Annapurna region famous for the stone-paved trails and clean surrounding.

As Khopra Danda lies between the trails of Jomsom trek and Annapurna Base Camp trek, you can extend it accordingly. In doing so, you can reach the base camp of Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m) and witness the best sunrise view from Poon Hill and Khopra Danda as well.

Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek Cost

You know the cost of any tour or trek package depends upon a few factors. They are trekking duration or itinerary, the services of food and accommodation, mode of transportation, etc. This trip can be customized from 5 days to more than 3 weeks. Poon Hill Khopra Trek cost is fixed according to the itinerary you choose.

It is totally a teahouse trekking in Nepal that you don’t have to worry about managing camping equipment. You don’t have to pay higher for numerous crew members. As the teahouses on the route to Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek are community based, the cost is comparatively low.

Somewhere you will find homestay facilities provided by the community people. There also you find the typical food items: Daal Bhaat or Gundruk Dhindo with chicken soup. In some places, you can also find Mo:mos, chow main, spaghetti, noodles as well.

As you begin this trek from Pokhara, you can reach there by flight or driving along the Prithvi Highway. If you use domestic flight the cost goes to be higher while the roadway transportation cost is lower.

Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek Difficulty

Talking about Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek Difficulty level, it is an easy type of trekking in Nepal. Due to the low altitude destination and well-maintained trails, it is suitable for family trek.

The highest place to reach is Khopra Danda (3,660 m). Per day, you have to walk not more than 6 hours along the comfortable trails. The trails are not ice-coverer, so it is easy to cover them. But in winter, the downpours may make the trials muddy and slippery that it is a bit challenging to walk through.

There are not any high pass's en route Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek until the final destination. Even the children and senior citizens can complete this trek without any difficulty.

Nevertheless, altitude sickness may sometimes be a cause for Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek difficulty. It is 1,000 m higher than the altitude safe from Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). To avoid this trek, you need to follow some steps like drinking enough water; having hygienic food and sound sleep. Moreover, you should walk with the slow pace by taking pauses in the middle of the trek.

Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek Solo Vs Organized

You can do Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek is possible as a solo trekker or in an organized group. As there is not any restricted area, you can trek independently as well. There is not any high pass en route to the final destination. In addition, the Nepal Trekking trail condition is good that even the children and senior citizens can do this trek.

As it lies close to the Lake City Pokhara, you can also visit Poon Hill and Khopra Danda region alone. It can be customized up to 5 days that you don’t need any guide or porter to carry your load as well. Doing this trek solo can help you minimize the cost also.

But we recommend you to book for an organized trek to Poon Hill Khopra Ridge. The guide and the porter can really help you in case of difficulty like missing the route or altitude sickness. More than this, they will give you the detailed briefing about the natural and cultural landmarks of the region.

Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek Map

To know about Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek Map, you must be clear that from where you start the trek. You fly or drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and spend a night over there. Then, you drive up to Nayapul and begin Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek formally ending at Tikhedhunga on the first day. Then, you walk up to Ghorepani, a classic Gurung Village of Annapurna region. Next morning, you hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m) for experiencing the wonderful sunrise view of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Massifs. You spend another night at Tadapani and then move towards Khopra Danda via Bayali Kharka.

You can stay at Khopra Danda one more day if you want to visit Khayer Lake. Then, you trek back to Bayali Kharka and Ghandruk respectively. You stay  a night at Ghandruk by exploring the Gurung Museum and typical culture and tradition of the Gurung community. Next day, you trek up to Nayapul and after that, drive to Pokhara. You celebrate the accomplishment of Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek at the Lake City Pokhara. Finally, you return to Kathmandu via bus service or air service.

Itinerary
Trip PlanExpand All

On your arrival day, the representative of NTR receives you at the Kathmandu Airport. Then, he will guide you to the hotel. You can visit Thamel Bazar on your own after you become fresh.

This is Kathmandu Sightseeing tour and trek preparation day. Therefore, the tour guide of NTR takes you around the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Capital City. The art and architecture of these cultural sites will please you and make your trekking in Nepal more memorable.

After having breakfast, you begin the journey towards the Lake City Pokhara. You will drive by the side of the Prithvi Highway on the banks of the Trishuli and the Marsyangdi Rivers. You will drive past some popular trading centers like Malekhu, Mugling, Dumre and Damauli to reach there.

You can also take a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara. By enjoying the aerial view of the snowcapped peaks of Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Annapurna and Dhaulagiri region, you land at the Pokhara Airport in just 25 minutes.

When you reach Pokhara, the representative of our agency takes you to the hotel. In the remaining time, you can explore the touristic centers of the Lake City. Boating on the Phewa Lake, visiting the Devi’s Fall, etc. are some of the activities you can do there.

After having breakfast, you begin travelling towards Nayapul and you reach there within  2 hours. From there, you formally begin the trek by enjoying the snowcapped peaks, farmlands, traditional Nepali villages, and natural waterfalls.

By getting the permits for the Annapurna Conservation Area Project and TIMS Card at Birethanti, you move ahead. walking along the snaky trails going up and down, you finally reach Tikhedhunga at the end of the day.

Following the rugged trail that goes past the dense rhododendron forests and the cliff, you continue the travel. You walk past Ulleri, a Magar ethnic village of Annapurna region. It is popular for stone-paved paths and clean surrounding. By observing the amazing vistas of Annapurna Massif and Mt. Fishtail, you reach Ghorepani in 5 hours. Here, you get the permits checked as it is the gateway to ACAP.

Early in the morning, you begin climbing towards Poon Hill from Ghorepani. Ghorepani Poon Hill (also known as Annapurna Sunrise View Trek) rewards you with the enchanting sunrise and sunset view of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Massifs.

After getting the lifelong memory of sunrise view from Poon Hill (3,210m), you trek back to Ghorepani. You then have breakfast and move towards Tadapani along the dense rhododendron forests of ACAP.

Crossing some farmlands, mountain streams and some settlement areas, you reach Tadapani at the end of the day. Tadapani is a small Gurung village from where you can see the captivating sight of Gangapurna Peak, Annapurna South, Annapurna III and Mt. Machhapuchhre.

Walking along the dense forests of rhododendron and bamboo, you move ahead towards Bayali Kharka. On the way, you will walk past some pasturelands while enjoying the majestic outlook of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Massifs. Bayali Kharka is popular for homestay facilities provided by the community people.

Taste the typical food and beverage (if you like) served at the best hospitality. In the evening, you can observe the cultural shows performed by the community people. The traditional songs and dances of the Gurung community can be watched here.

Following the trail that runs across the dense forests and some pasturelands, you reach Chhistibung. This is a small village having some teahouses or homestay sites to provide food and accommodation services to the trekkers.

From Chhistibung, the trail is a little steep that you should walk slowly to avoid altitude sickness. Enjoying the greenery all around and the snowcapped peaks above it, you reach the top of Khopra Danda.

This is the highest point to reach during Poon Hill Khopra Danda trek. From the top of this beautiful hill, you witness the enthralling vistas of Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri Massif, Mt. Nilgiri and Tukuche Peak. You can enjoy the sunset and sunrise view of the snowcapped peaks of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna region from here.

If you want to explore Khayer Lake, you can keep this day as spare. Khayer Lake is a famous pilgrimage site for the Hindu pilgrims who visit this lake during Janai Purnima Festival. The Holy Thread Day falls in the month of August, so, the Hindus go to the lake for taking a holy dip. They believe that taking a dip into the holy water of Khayer Lake cleanses their sins if any.

Or else, you descend towards Bayali Kharka after having breakfast. The trail leads you along the dense bamboo and rhododendron forests of Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP). Walking past some pasturelands, you reach the destination after 5 hours.

From here, you can enjoy the enchanting view of Dhaulagiri (8,167m) Massif and other peaks of Annapurna region. Overnight at a homestay of Bayali Kharka relishing the typical hot and spicy food of Gurung people.

Descending along the banks of a small stream, you move through the dense rhododendron forests enjoying the amazing view of Annapurna Massif. Walking past Tadapani, the trail leads you along the dense rhododendron woodlands inhabited by diverse bird species.

By listening to the chirping of the birds and enjoying the snowcapped peaks, you reach Ghandruk village. You will notice Annapurna II, III & IV, Annapurna South, Mt. Fishtail and Lamjung Himal during the journey.

Ghandruk is one of the largest Gurung ethnic villages of Annapurna region. You can visit the Gurung Museum and talk with the Gurung people here. As the males of this village are serving in the British and Indian Army, they are known as the Brave Gurkhas. The old Gurkhas might share the interesting stories of the World Wars with you.

Overnight stay at a homestay with the Gurung Family. You can also learn their daily activities and interesting stories about their history and culture tradition.

Today is the last day of trekking in Annapurna region, so you begin the trek after having breakfast. Enjoying the alluring views of Annapurna South, Himchuli Himal and Mt. Fishtail,  you reach Chane Village. From here, the trail leads you across some beautiful villages like Kinche, Hile and Birethanti until you reach Nayapul.

From Nayapul, you catch a private jeep or a public bus for Pokhara. After you reach Pokhara, you will be transferred to the hotel. In the leisure time, you can visit the remaining places of Pokhara.

By driving along the Prithvi Highway, you arrive in Kathmandu within 6 hours. Alternatively, you can also fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu that takes nearly 25 minutes. After you arrive in Kathmandu, the representative of NTR relocates you to the hotel. In the spare time, you can take a round of Thamel to purchase some products of art and craft of Nepal.

In the evening, you are invited for farewell dinner at a cultural restaurant around Thamel Bazar. You will enjoy the typical Nepali cuisines and the cultural performances of the talented artists.

The team member of NTR transfers you to the Kathmandu Airport according to your flight schedule.

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Cost Details
Includes
  • Trekking Guide and Trekking porter (Two participant=1 porter =Maximum 25 kg of luggage )
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and accommodation during the trekking
  • Sleeping bags, down jackets, duffel bags and trekking sticks if required,
  • Trekking permit of National park,
  • TIMS(Trekking Information Management System )
  • Insurance and equipment for the trekking staff
  • First aid kit
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu with a cultural program in a typical Traditional Nepali restaurant
Excludes
  • Personal expenses
  • Drinks, beverages, hot shower,
  • Travel Insurance
  • Tips for Guide and porter (trekking staff)
  • Meals & hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (without itinerary )
Route Map
Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek
Essential Information

The Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek is a newly introduced off-the-beaten-path trek in Nepal’s Annapurna region. It offers stunning sunrise and sunset views from Poon Hill (3,210m) and Khopra Danda (3,660m). The trek passes through rhododendron forests and traditional Gurung and Magar villages.
Here are the useful information you need to know:

Location & Accessibility
The Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek is located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The trek starts from Nayapul, about a 1.5-hour drive from Pokhara. The trail passes through Ghorepani, Poon Hill, Tadapani, Bayeli, and Khopra Ridge, offering stunning views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The route is well-maintained and accessible for most trekkers.

Maximum Elevation
The highest point of this trek is Khopra Danda (3,660 meters / 12,008 feet). It provides panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Annapurna South, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain).

Best Time for Trekking
 

Weather Situation: 
The best trekking seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). During these seasons, the weather is clear, and the mountain views are spectacular. The temperature is moderate, and the forests are filled with blooming rhododendrons.
 

Peak Season: 
Autumn and spring are ideal for trekking due to stable weather conditions and excellent visibility. The trails are busy, and teahouses can get full, so booking in advance is recommended.
 

Challenges of Off-Season Trekking: 
Winter (December-February) can be extremely cold, with snow at higher elevations.

Monsoon (June-August) brings heavy rainfall, making trails slippery and leech-infested.

However, trekking in the off-season offers solitude and a peaceful experience.

Accommodation During the Trek
Teahouses and community lodges along the trail provide basic lodging.

Showers: Hot showers are available in most teahouses, but they may cost extra at higher altitudes.

Internet: Wi-Fi is available in some villages, but the connection is slow and unreliable at higher elevations.

Food & Drinking Water: Meals include dal bhat, noodles, soups, momos, and pancakes. Drinking water is available as boiled water in teahouses. Carry a water purification system or tablets for refilling.

Trekking Cost
The trek costs $500-$900 per person, depending on the itinerary and services. This includes guide/porter fees, transportation, permits, accommodation, and meals. Additional costs include Wi-Fi, hot showers, and personal expenses. Luxury options with upgraded lodges and private transport cost more.

Permit Required
Trekkers need two permits:
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – NPR 3,000 ($23) per person.
Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card – NPR 2,000 ($15) per person.

Tipping Guidelines
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. A general guideline is $5-$10 per day for a guide and $3-$5 per day for a porter. Tipping is typically done at the end of the trek. It’s recommended to hand over tips directly to the individual as a token of appreciation.

Last-Minute Booking with Nepal Trekking Routes
Nepal Trekking Routes allows last-minute bookings for the Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek. However, securing guides and accommodation in peak season can be challenging. Trekkers booking at the last minute should be flexible with accommodation and permits. We offer a hassle-free arrangement even on short notice.

Eco-Friendly Options

  • To minimize your environmental impact, carry a reusable water bottle and purification tablets instead of buying plastic bottles. 
  • Use biodegradable soap and avoid single-use plastics. 
  • Stick to designated trails to prevent erosion. 
  • Support eco-lodges and local businesses that practice sustainable tourism and waste management.

Mode of Transportation
The trek begins with a drive from Pokhara to Nayapul or Ghandruk (depending on the chosen route). Private jeeps or local buses are available. 
Some trekkers prefer starting from Ulleri or Hile to modify the itinerary. 
At the end of the trek, a similar drive returns trekkers to Pokhara.

Equipment Required

  • Trekking boots (broken-in for comfort)
  • Layered clothing (warm jacket, fleece, base layers)
  • Rain gear (especially for monsoon treks)
  • Sunglasses, hat, and gloves
  • Trekking poles (helpful for descents)
  • Sleeping bag (optional but useful)
  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • First-aid kit and personal medications
  • Water purification system (bottle or tablets)

Financial Institution 
There are no ATMs along the trekking route. The last ATM is in Pokhara. Carry enough cash (Nepali rupees) for accommodation upgrades, snacks, Wi-Fi, and other expenses. Money exchange is available in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Having small denominations is recommended for teahouse payments.

People & Culture 
The trek passes through villages of Magar and Gurung communities. They are known for warm hospitality and unique traditions. Prayer flags, Buddhist chortens, and monasteries line the trail. Trekkers can experience traditional dances, local food, and the Gurkha heritage. You can learn about the region’s deep-rooted cultural and spiritual beliefs.

Type of Travel

  • Beginner-Friendly: Moderate difficulty, suitable for first-time trekkers.
  • Solo Travelers: Safe, but hiring a guide is recommended.
  • Family-Friendly: Short trek duration makes it great for families.
  • Luxury Trekkers: Possible with upgraded lodges and private transport.

Travel Tips for the Trekking

  • Start early to enjoy clear morning views.
  • Train in advance to prepare for uphill and downhill sections.
  • Hydrate well and carry a reusable water bottle.
  • Bring cash since there are no ATMs along the route.
  • Dress in layers to adapt to changing temperatures.
  • Use trekking poles for support during descents.
  • Respect local culture by dressing modestly and greeting locals.
  • Book in advance during peak season to secure accommodation.
  • Hire a guide or porter for a better trekking experience.
  • Follow eco-friendly practices to keep the region clean.

Best Alternative

FAQs

We recommend you to do Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek for its wonderful sunrise and sunset views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Massifs. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek (Annapurna Sunrise View Trek) is recognized as one of the best sunrise views in the world. From Khopra Danda also, you can witness the best sunrise and sunset view of Dhaulagiri Massif, Annapurna Massif, Mt. Nilgiri, Mt. Machhapurchhre, Mt. Nilgiri and many more. The wonderful culture and tradition of Gurung and Magar ethnic communities also make this trek more memorable.

As the highest point to reach is 3,660m, you can do Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek all times of the year. However, doing Poon Hill Khopra Danda Trek in summer may not be as favourable as in other seasons. The heavy rainfall makes the trails muddy and slippery that it is not easy to walk through.

Khopra Ridge Trek is around 84 kilometers far from the Lake City Pokhara. You need nearly 5 days to reach the peak point of Poon Hill Khopra Ridge Trek.

You need TIMS Card and Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Entry Permit for Poon Hill Khopra Ridge Trek.

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