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9-Day Khopra Ridge Trek Itinerary & Cost
Trekkers enjoying panoramic views of Mount Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South from Khopra Ridge viewpoint during the 9-day trek with HGI Nepal
9 Days Itinerary

Khorpa Trek

Leave the busy trails behind on this off-the-beaten-path journey to Khorpa Ridge (3,660 m) in the Annapurna region. Walk through rhododendron and oak forests and traditional villages to a quiet ridge with sweeping views of Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and Machhapuchhre.

9 DaysMax 3,660 mModerate to ChallengingTeahouse Stay
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Trip Facts

CountryNepal
Duration9 Days
DifficultyModerate to Challenging
ActivityTrekking / Hiking
Max. Altitude3,660 m / 12,008 ft
Best SeasonMar–May, Sep–Nov
AccommodationTeahouse & Hotel
MealsFull Board on Trek
Start / EndKathmandu

Khorpa Trek Overview & Highlights

The Khorpa Trek is a quieter alternative to the popular Annapurna routes. This 9-day journey begins and ends in Kathmandu and leads to Khorpa Ridge (3,660 m), a spectacular viewpoint in the Annapurna region that is far less crowded than the main trails.

The trail climbs from the Modi Khola valley through Tikhedhunga and Ghorepani, then follows forested ridges through rhododendron and oak forest. The scenery changes from terraced farmland and waterfalls to quiet alpine ridgelines with wide mountain panoramas.

From Khorpa Ridge you can enjoy views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). A full day on the ridge allows time to acclimatize and explore the surrounding viewpoints before the descent.

The route returns through Swanta, Tadapani and Ghandruk, where Gurung culture and hospitality add to the experience. The trek finishes with a return to Pokhara and a scenic drive back to Kathmandu.

Trek Highlights

  • Stay on Khorpa Ridge (3,660 m) with sweeping mountain views
  • Panoramas of Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and Machhapuchhre
  • Quieter, off-the-beaten-path alternative to busy Annapurna trails
  • Rhododendron and oak forests
  • Traditional Gurung villages such as Ghandruk
  • Optional Poon Hill sunrise from Ghorepani
  • Acclimatization day on the ridge
  • Lakeside evening in Pokhara

Khorpa Trek Detailed Itinerary

9-Day Short Itinerary

Day 1

Kathmandu → Pokhara (Drive)

Pokhara · 822 m
Day 2

Pokhara → Nayapul → Tikhedhunga

Tikhedhunga · 1,570 m
Day 3

Tikhedhunga → Ghorepani

Ghorepani · 2,860 m
Day 4

Ghorepani → Khorpa Ridge

Khorpa Ridge · 3,660 m
Day 5

Rest and Explore Khorpa Ridge

Khorpa Ridge · 3,660 m
Day 6

Khorpa Ridge → Swanta

Swanta · 2,200 m
Day 7

Swanta → Tadapani

Tadapani · 2,610 m
Day 8

Tadapani → Ghandruk → Nayapul → Pokhara

Pokhara · 822 m
Day 9

Pokhara → Kathmandu (Drive)

Kathmandu · 1,400 m

Detailed Itinerary

DAY 1

Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara

Travel by road along the Prithvi Highway through river valleys, hills and small towns. On arrival in Pokhara, check in to your hotel and enjoy the relaxed lakeside atmosphere with views towards the Annapurna range.

  • Max. altitudePokhara (822 m)
  • Duration6–7 hrs drive
  • OvernightHotel in Pokhara
DAY 2

Drive to Nayapul and Trek to Tikhedhunga

Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, then begin trekking through Birethanti and along the Modi Khola valley. Follow village trails, terraced fields and suspension bridges to reach Tikhedhunga.

  • Max. altitudeTikhedhunga (1,570 m)
  • Duration1.5–2 hrs drive + 4–5 hrs trek
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 3

Trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani

Climb the stone staircase to Ulleri and continue through rhododendron and oak forest to Ghorepani, a lively village with views of the surrounding mountains.

  • Max. altitudeGhorepani (2,860 m)
  • Duration6–7 hrs trek
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 4

Trek from Ghorepani to Khorpa Ridge

Leave Ghorepani early and follow the ridge through forest and open meadows to Khorpa Ridge. The trail is quieter than the main routes, with expanding views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South.

  • Max. altitudeKhorpa Ridge (3,660 m)
  • Duration7–8 hrs trek
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 5

Rest and Explore Khorpa Ridge

Spend a full day on the ridge to acclimatize and enjoy sunrise and sunset views. Short walks to nearby viewpoints are possible, and trekkers with energy and good weather may attempt a longer optional hike.

  • Max. altitudeKhorpa Ridge (3,660 m)
  • DurationOptional short hikes
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 6

Trek from Khorpa Ridge to Swanta

Descend through forest and small settlements on a steep trail to the village of Swanta. Enjoy the change from alpine ridgeline to warmer farmland.

  • Max. altitudeSwanta (2,200 m)
  • Duration6–7 hrs trek
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 7

Trek from Swanta to Tadapani

Follow forest trails and village paths to Tadapani, with views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre when the weather is clear.

  • Max. altitudeTadapani (2,610 m)
  • Duration5–6 hrs trek
  • OvernightTeahouse
DAY 8

Trek to Nayapul and Drive to Pokhara

Descend through Ghandruk, a large Gurung village, and continue along stone steps to Nayapul. Drive back to Pokhara for a hotel night and a relaxed evening by the lake.

  • Max. altitudePokhara (822 m)
  • Duration6–7 hrs trek + 1.5–2 hrs drive
  • OvernightHotel in Pokhara
DAY 9

Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

Return to Kathmandu via the Prithvi Highway, following scenic river valleys and hillside settlements. Arrive in Kathmandu, marking the completion of your Khorpa Trek.

  • Max. altitudeKathmandu (1,400 m)
  • Duration6–7 hrs drive
  • Trip endsDeparture or extension

Please note: The itinerary may change due to weather, trail conditions, health or other factors beyond our control. Facilities are simpler than on the main Annapurna trails. We recommend keeping one or two additional days available.

Khorpa Trek Route Map

Detailed route map for the 9-day Khopra Ridge trek showing key stops including Ghandruk, Tadapani, Dobato, Khopra Ridge, and Swanta

Route: Kathmandu – Pokhara – Nayapul – Tikhedhunga – Ghorepani – Khorpa Ridge – Swanta – Tadapani – Ghandruk – Nayapul – Pokhara – Kathmandu.

Elevation Profile

The trek climbs from the Modi Khola valley through Tikhedhunga and Ghorepani to Khorpa Ridge (3,660 m) on Day 4. After a rest day on the ridge, the route descends through Swanta, Tadapani and Ghandruk to Nayapul and Pokhara.

01,0002,0003,0004,000 m8221,5702,8603,6602,2002,6108221,400Khorpa Ridge3,660 mDay 1PokharaDay 2TikhedhungaDay 3GhorepaniDay 4KhorpaDay 5KhorpaDay 6SwantaDay 7TadapaniDay 8PokharaDay 9Kathmandu
Highest Point3,660 mKhorpa Ridge, Days 4 and 5
Lowest Point822 mPokhara, Day 1 and Day 8
DifficultyModerate to ChallengingRemote ridge trek

Highest altitude reached each day in metres, Day 1 to Day 9.

Trek Difficulty

The Khorpa Trek is a moderate to challenging trek. Expect 5–8 hours of walking on trekking days, with steep stone staircases, long ascents and descents, and simpler facilities than on the main Annapurna trails. The ascent to Khorpa Ridge is the most demanding day. No technical climbing is required.

Physical Effort
Altitude
Technical Difficulty
Comfort Level

Scale 1 to 5. Ratings are guidance and depend on fitness and weather.

Best Season

Spring

March–May. Mild weather, blooming rhododendrons and beautiful mountain scenery.

Autumn

September–November. Clear skies, excellent mountain views and favourable trekking conditions.

Summer

June–August. Monsoon rain, leeches and cloudy conditions affect the trail and views.

Winter

December–February. Cold nights and possible snow on the ridge; the route may be difficult.

Accommodation & Meals

Accommodation

  • Teahouse accommodation during the trek
  • Twin-sharing rooms with basic beds
  • Shared bathrooms in many locations
  • Hot showers may cost extra
  • Hotel accommodation in Pokhara is not included unless specified

Meals

  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trek
  • Dal bhat, noodles, soup, momos, eggs and porridge
  • Tea and coffee
  • Boiled or purified drinking water

Dietary Needs

Vegan

Vegan meals can be arranged at teahouses. Please inform us when booking.

Gluten Free

Gluten-free meal options may be available. Bring specialist products if required.

Packing List

General

  • Four-season sleeping bag
  • Sleeping bag liner
  • Down jacket
  • 30–40 L daypack

Head & Upper Body

  • Sun hat or cap
  • Warm beanie
  • Neck gaiter
  • Headlamp
  • Sunglasses

Torso

  • Thermal base layer
  • Trekking shirts
  • Fleece jacket
  • Waterproof shell

Lower Body

  • Thermal base layer
  • Trekking trousers
  • Comfortable trousers
  • Waterproof shell trousers

Hands & Feet

  • Liner and insulated gloves
  • Warm hiking socks
  • Waterproof trekking boots
  • Casual shoes or sandals

First Aid

  • Personal medication
  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • Blister plasters
  • Throat lozenges

Essentials

  • Passport and photocopies
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Water purification tablets
  • Toiletries and towel
  • Trekking poles
  • Energy snacks

Optional

  • Power bank
  • Camera or phone
  • Book or cards
  • Binoculars
  • Rain cover for daypack

Safety & Altitude

This trek reaches 3,660 m at Khorpa Ridge, so altitude symptoms are possible for some trekkers. The itinerary includes a rest day on the ridge. Our guides monitor trekkers and adjust the pace according to conditions.

  • Ascend gradually and follow acclimatization advice
  • Stay hydrated throughout the trek
  • Report headache, nausea or dizziness immediately
  • Descend if symptoms worsen
  • Guides carry a first aid kit
  • Insurance must cover trekking to 4,000 m and helicopter evacuation

Khorpa Trek Cost & Inclusions

Included

Transportation

  • Kathmandu – Pokhara
  • Pokhara – Nayapul
  • Nayapul – Pokhara
  • Pokhara – Kathmandu

Meals & Accommodation

  • Full-board meals and accommodation during the trek
  • Tea and coffee
  • Drinking water as specified in package

Guide & Staff

  • Professional licensed trekking guide
  • Porter service
  • Guide and porter wages
  • Guide and porter insurance

Permits & Taxes

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
  • Applicable TIMS permit or registration fees
  • Government and local taxes

Safety

  • First aid kit

Not Included

  • Hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance and emergency evacuation
  • International airfare
  • Extra nights due to delays
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Personal trekking gear
  • Hot showers and device charging
  • Additional snacks and beverages
  • Optional sightseeing
  • Medical and emergency expenses
  • Nepal entry visa fees

Trekking with Children

Children under 10 may qualify for exemption from certain conservation-area entry fees, subject to applicable regulations. The Khorpa Trek involves long, steep walking days and reaches 3,660 m. Please inform us about your child’s age and trekking experience before booking.

Booking Cancellation & Refund Policy

We understand that travel plans can change. Please review our cancellation and refund policy carefully before confirming your booking.

Booking amount / deposit only

Cancellation Within 7 Days

If you have paid only the booking amount and cancel within 7 days of your booking confirmation, you will receive a refund equal to 25% of the amount paid.

If you cancel after the 7-day period, the booking amount is non-refundable.

Full trip payment

25% Refund at Any Time

If you have paid the full trip amount, you will receive a refund of 25% of the total amount paid if you cancel, whether the cancellation is made within or after the 7-day window.

The 7-day cancellation window does not affect this full-payment refund policy.

Please Note

The refund amount depends on whether you have paid only the booking amount or the full trip cost. A booking-only payment is eligible for a 25% refund only when cancellation is made within 7 days of booking confirmation. A full trip payment is eligible for a 25% refund regardless of when you cancel.

Important: The 7-day cancellation period begins on the date your booking is confirmed. We recommend reviewing your travel dates and plans carefully before making a booking.

Why Trek with HGI Nepal

Licensed Local Guides

Experienced, first-aid-trained and English-speaking guides.

Clear Pricing

Permits, transport, meals and staff costs are explained upfront.

Safety First

Flexible pacing and emergency evacuation coordination.

Fair Staff Treatment

Fair wages and insurance for guides and porters.

Private Treks

Private and small-group departures available.

Local Support

Our Kathmandu team is available before and during your trip.

Customer Reviews

See what trekkers say about HGI Nepal on Google.

 
 
 
 
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HGI organise our trip to Tibet from Nepal. They arranged all permits and everything to get all facilities in our tour. It was a great experience and we enjoyed it a lot. We recommend their services, they are very professional and caring! Thanks Jeevan
  
 
  
 
 
 
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I hiked the everest base camp trek with Laxmi, not only was the journey an amazing experience but the kindness and professionalism shown was outstanding. His knowledge and experience truly made the trek more enjoyable and his skill in nepali card games posed quite a challenge for me. Highly recommend
  
 
  
 
 
 
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The crew at HGI are exceptional.  Really careful planning and communication. Everything is explained,  the guides are experienced and totally trustworthy. The trek was awesome,  and the friendly attention to detail meant everything went smoothly.  If you want a personalised trip, where friends are made,  make a great decision and go with HGI.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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Good guide and fast solution in case of emergency!
  
 
  
 
 
 
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We had an amazing experience on our trek organised by HGI. They were extremely professional and took care of everything from the start. The stand out of the whole trip was definitely our Guide Laxmi and assistant guide Aasish. Laxmi was extremely good at his job, he always made sure we were comfortable and safe. He was extremely knoweldgable and shared his knowledge of the environment and different cultures we encountered along the way.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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Our group went around Manaslu with Laxmi and Aasish and couldn't be happier with the service provided by HGI.  Laxmi was very professional, knowledgeable and very skilled at card games.  The team at HGI really went above and beyond our expectations at every point in the trip.  Thank you.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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One of the most experienced Trekking Companies in Nepal working since the 80's Staff are the best,friendly and they know what has to be done while in mountains. If you are looking for serious people they are the best option for your Hiking routes in Nepal.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
   
 
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Khorpa Trek FAQs

General

How many days does the Khorpa trek take?

The itinerary takes 9 days from Kathmandu to Kathmandu, including travel to Pokhara, six trekking days and the return journey.

How high is Khorpa Ridge?

Khorpa Ridge reaches 3,660 metres (12,008 feet), the highest point of the trek.

Do I need a guide or porter?

We recommend trekking with a licensed guide and can arrange porter services. Current permit and guide requirements should be confirmed before departure.

Difficulty & Fitness

Do I need prior trekking experience?

Previous trekking experience is helpful but not essential. Good fitness is important for the steep climbs and long walking days.

How difficult is the Khorpa trek?

The trek is moderate to challenging, with steep ascents and simpler facilities. It does not require technical climbing.

Weather & Best Season

What is the best time to trek?

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are generally the best seasons for stable conditions and mountain views.

Arrival & Visa

Do I need a visa to enter Nepal?

Many nationalities can obtain a tourist visa on arrival, subject to current Nepal immigration rules and eligibility.

Cost & Permits

How much does the trek cost?

The price depends on group size, travel dates and selected services. Contact HGI Nepal for a personalised quotation.

What permits are required?

ACAP and applicable trekking registration or TIMS requirements should be confirmed according to current regulations before departure.

Accommodation & Food

What accommodation is available?

Teahouses are used during the trek, with hotel accommodation in Pokhara according to the package arrangement.

What food is available?

Common meals include dal bhat, noodles, soup, momos, eggs, porridge and some Western dishes.

Is Wi-Fi and electricity available?

Charging and Wi-Fi may be limited or unavailable at higher and more remote lodges.

Health & Safety

What is the risk of altitude sickness?

Altitude sickness is possible above 3,000 metres. Follow acclimatization guidance and report symptoms to your guide immediately.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes. Your policy should cover trekking to at least 4,000 metres and emergency helicopter evacuation.

What if the weather affects the schedule?

Your guide will assess weather and trail conditions. Trekking days may be adjusted, so keeping spare days is recommended.

How to Book

  1. Fill in the Booking Form

    Submit your preferred dates, group size and travel details.

  2. We Get in Touch

    Our team will discuss your trip and answer your questions.

  3. Confirm and Pay the Deposit

    Once the itinerary and price are confirmed, pay the deposit to secure your trip.

  4. Pre-Trip Briefing

    Meet your guide in Kathmandu and review the plan and equipment.