The Khayer Lake (Khopra Danda) Trek is one of the Annapurna region’s best-kept secrets, a trail that weaves together quiet wilderness, timeless Himalayan villages, and awe-inspiring ridge walks overlooking two of Nepal’s greatest mountains: Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. Unlike the more frequented paths of the Annapurna Base Camp or Ghorepani, Khopra Danda offers solitude and a raw, unfiltered connection with the Himalayas.
Stretching through terraced hillsides, deep forests of rhododendron and oak, and onto wide grassy ridges that seem to float between the peaks, the journey feels both peaceful and powerful. Each village from Ghandruk’s stone houses to the yak pastures of Chistibung offers a glimpse into the rural rhythms of life in the mountains. At the heart of the trek lies Khayer Lake (4,660 m), a sacred alpine lake shimmering beneath the icy crown of Annapurna South. To reach it is to walk not just into higher altitudes, but into local legend: villagers believe bathing in the lake cleanses one’s spirit and brings blessings from the mountain gods.
This trek is perfect for those who seek a quieter, more meditative journey, one that rewards with grand panoramas, personal reflection, and genuine human connection. The Khayer Lake Trek is an unforgettable chapter in Nepal’s great mountain story.
Highlights
- Panoramic ridge views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Nilgiri, and Machhapuchhre.
- Khayer Lake (4,660 m) — a sacred and serene alpine lake tucked beneath Annapurna South.
- Authentic Gurung and Magar hospitality in villages untouched by heavy tourism.
- Rhododendron forests in full bloom (March–May) painting the hills in reds and pinks.
- Rich biodiversity — langurs, Himalayan monals, and wildflowers along the trail.
- Cultural intimacy — shared kitchens, local yak cheese, and mountain life stories.
- Peaceful trails with fewer trekkers, yet equally breathtaking scenery.
- Optional sunrise detour to Poon Hill for the classic Annapurna panorama.
What Can I Expect from the Khayer Lake (Khopra Danda) Trek?
The trail offers everything trekkers love about Nepal, suspension bridges, forest paths, stone stairways, open ridgelines but without the rush or crowd of busier routes. Expect days that unfold gently where mornings begin with warm tea and mountain light spilling across the valleys, and evenings that end around a fire, sharing stories with locals under a sky so clear it feels infinite.
The trek blends gradual ascents with steady ridge walks, making each day varied and rewarding. From the terraced farmlands of Ghandruk, where the Annapurnas loom like silent guardians, you’ll climb into forests scented with wildflowers and moss. Higher up, the trees thin, replaced by open yak pastures and crisp alpine air. The climb to Khopra Ridge (3,660 m) is a highlight. A long, quiet rise to one of the best viewpoints in the entire region.
Major Attractions of the Khayer Lake (Khopra Danda) Trek
Your adventure begins in Pokhara, the tranquil lakeside city that acts as the gateway to the Annapurna region. From here, a short drive leads to Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung village filled with stone-paved lanes, slate-roofed houses, and cascading terraces. The village’s old museum and warm-hearted locals provide a glimpse into traditional Himalayan life.
As you ascend toward Tadapani and Dobato, the scenery transforms, lush rhododendron forests give way to open pastures, and the air becomes sharper. The Muldai Viewpoint, near Dobato, rewards trekkers with an extraordinary sunrise, the kind of morning where the entire Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range glows gold and pink as the sun rises.
The trail then leads to Khopra Danda, a high ridge where you can see both the Kali Gandaki Valley which is the world’s deepest gorge and the towering white spires of the Himalayas. It feels like walking the spine of the mountains themselves. From here, the trek’s spiritual heart awaits, the Khayer Lake, a sacred glacial pool said to be blessed by Lord Shiva. Each summer, pilgrims gather here to pray and bathe, believing the icy waters wash away sins.
On the way back, you descend through Swanta, a charming Magar village where time seems to move slower. You can visit a small local cheese factory or simply rest among the stone houses and fields. Finally, your return to Pokhara feels like a soft landing and a chance to unwind, eat well, and celebrate your journey beneath the gaze of Machhapuchhre.
Who Can Do the Khayer Lake (Khopra Danda) Trek?
This trek is ideal for anyone with a moderate level of fitness and an adventurous spirit. It doesn’t require mountaineering experience, but stamina for long days (5–7 hours of walking) will help you enjoy the route comfortably. It’s a great choice for those who’ve already done shorter treks like Poon Hill or Langtang and want something quieter but equally scenic.
Iconic Himalaya welcomes solo trekkers, couples, groups or families with older children looking for a blend of nature and culture. With fewer crowds and family-run teahouses, it feels intimate and authentic.
