Interactive Route Explorer Map
Explore the complete Khopra Ridge Trek loop — stage itinerary, elevation profile, daily distances, village checkpoints, and offline GPS navigation tips.
65–75 km (Loop)
7 to 9 Days
Khayer Lake (4,660m)
Non-Technical Mountain Loop
ACAP & TIMS Verified GPS Route Data
Maintained and verified by Pokhara local operator EMD Treks (License #8928-091). All elevation data and node distances are synchronized with official Annapurna Conservation Area trail markers.
The Khopra Ridge Trek is one of the few routes in the Annapurna region where you can walk for days without crowds, sleep in community-run lodges, and still stand face-to-face with Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, and Nilgiri.
Below, you will find an interactive route explorer that lets you click through every stage of the Khopra Ridge loop — from Pokhara to Khayer Lake and back — along with elevation changes, distances, village checkpoints, and offline GPS guidance.
Interactive Circuit Loop & Node Inspector
Click on any node in the schematic diagram below to view detailed altitude, pacing schedule, and landmark highlights for that stop.
Circuit Schematic Diagram
*Schematic representation. Click circles to inspect segment details. Green dashed line indicates Khayer Lake extension.The ultimate destination ridge lodge. Positioned right on the grassy edge of the deep valley facing Dhaulagiri directly.
Stage-by-Stage Distance & Walking Hours
| Trek Stage | Distance | Walking Time | Elevation Delta |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pokhara/Kimche to Ghandruk | 10–12 km | 5–6 hrs | +1,120m |
| Ghandruk to Tadapani | 8–10 km | 5–6 hrs | +690m |
| Tadapani to Dobato | 10–12 km | 6–7 hrs | +800m |
| Dobato to Khopra Ridge | 5–6 km | 3–4 hrs | +228m |
| Khopra Ridge to Khayer Lake (Round Trip) | 12–14 km | 6–7 hrs | +1,000m |
| Khopra Ridge to Swanta Village | 10–12 km | 5–6 hrs | -1,446m |
| Swanta to Ghorepani | 8–10 km | 4–5 hrs | +620m |
| Ghorepani to Poon Hill & Nayapul | 12–14 km | 5–6 hrs | -1,790m |
Elevation Profile & Major Stop Breakdown
| Trek Stop | Altitude | Facility Type | Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ghandruk | 1,940 m | Village Lodge | Gurung culture & museum |
| Tadapani | 2,630 m | Forest Junction | Fishtail peak views |
| Dobato | 3,420 m | Pasture Lodge | Muldai 360° sunrise deck |
| Khopra Ridge | 3,660 m | High Ridge Lodge | Dhaulagiri & Annapurna South edge |
| Khayer Lake | 4,660 m | Glacial Shrine | Highest point & sacred basin |
| Swanta Village | 2,240 m | Magar Farming | Terraced barley & honey hives |
| Ghorepani | 2,860 m | Trail Hub | Poon Hill sunrise access |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I complete the Khopra Ridge Trek without a guide?▼
While independent trekking is possible, hiring a licensed local guide is strongly recommended (and required under TIMS regulations for solo trekkers). Key junctions like Tadapani and Dobato require reliable navigation.
Is the Khopra Ridge Trek route clearly marked?▼
The trail is well-defined between major villages, but high-altitude sections above Dobato and around Khayer Lake can become obscured by fog or snow. Having an offline GPS map is essential.
Which offline map app works best for the Khopra Ridge Trek?▼
Maps.me and Organic Maps both offer accurate offline mapping for the Annapurna region. Pre-download the Western Nepal regional map before departing Pokhara.
Can I use GPS on the Khopra Ridge trail?▼
Yes, phone GPS functions reliably without cellular service as long as you have downloaded offline maps or GPX tracks in advance.
How long is the Khopra Ridge Trek?▼
The standard full loop covers 65 to 75 kilometers over 7 to 9 days, depending on entry/exit points and whether you include the Khayer Lake day hike.
What is the highest point on the route?▼
Khayer Lake, at approximately 4,660 meters (15,288 ft), is the highest elevation point reached on the trek.
Where does the Khopra Ridge Trek start and finish?▼
Most trekkers start from Pokhara via Kimche or Nayapul, loop through Ghandruk, Tadapani, Dobato, Khopra Ridge, Swanta, and Ghorepani, before descending back to Nayapul and driving to Pokhara.
How far is Khayer Lake from Khopra Ridge?▼
The round trip between Khopra Ridge Lodge and Khayer Lake is 12 to 14 kilometers, taking roughly 6 to 7 hours of strenuous high-altitude walking.
Is the Khopra Ridge Trek suitable for beginners?▼
It is rated moderate (novice-friendly). Beginners with good baseline physical fitness can complete the trek, provided they maintain a steady pace and build in acclimatization.
Can I customize the standard itinerary?▼
Yes. The loop can be shortened to 6 days or extended to 10–12 days by incorporating Mohare Danda or additional rest days in Swanta or Ghandruk.
Plan Your Circuit with Local Experts
Let local Pokhara operators EMD Treks (NTB License #8928-091) handle your ACAP permits, TIMS cards, community lodge reservations, and experienced mountain guide logistics.