Khopra Ridge & Khayar Lake Trek — 9 Days

Morning drive from Pokhara to Nayapul. Trek through Birethanti and along the Bhurungdi Khola through terraced farmland and subtropical forest. Reach Tikhedhunga at the base of the Ulleri staircase as the day closes.

Climb the famous 3,000-step stone staircase through Ulleri (1,960 m) and continue through rhododendron and oak forest via Banthanti. Ghorepani on the ridge offers commanding views of Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna range at sunset.

Pre-dawn ascent to Poon Hill for the iconic sunrise panorama over Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Machhapuchhre and Nilgiri. Return for breakfast then descend south via the less-trodden Swanta trail, leaving the main trekking crowds behind. Swanta is a peaceful Magar village with traditional stone houses and views south towards the Annapurna foothills.

Trek uphill through mixed forest and open ridgeline to Dobato, a high pasture area with exceptional 360-degree views of Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna South Face. This upper section of the Khopra Ridge trail sees far fewer trekkers than Poon Hill, offering genuine solitude and superb photography.

Short morning trek along the ridge to Khopra Danda — a community-managed camp operated by local Gurung communities. The viewpoint here is arguably superior to Poon Hill: an unobstructed panorama of Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre, with virtually no other trekkers.

Early start for the day hike to Khayar Lake (also spelled Khayer), a sacred glacial lake at 4,700 m beneath the south face of Annapurna South. The 3–4 hour ascent is steep but the lake — set in a high mountain bowl with prayer flags — is one of Nepal hidden gems. Return to Khopra Danda for the night.

Descend the western flank of the Khopra ridge through forest and terraced farmland, passing through the village of Chitre on the descent towards the Kali Gandaki valley. The landscape opens significantly and Dhaulagiri remains visible to the north.

Descend steeply to the Kali Gandaki river and the hot spring village of Tatopani. Soak in the famous natural hot springs on the riverbank — a perfect reward after days at altitude. Tatopani is a popular overnight stop on the Annapurna Circuit and has good lodge facilities.

Final morning trek south along the Kali Gandaki river to the town of Beni (830 m), where the road from Pokhara terminates. Board a private vehicle for the 2-hour drive back to Pokhara through the Kali Gandaki and Modi valleys. Arrive mid-afternoon in time for a lakeside celebration dinner.