20 August 2022
When we speak about the Annapurna region, the one thing that comes to mind is the Annapurna base camp trek. Yes, it has its grandeur and marvels but it doesn’t possess the magical appeal these days. In recent years, a new trekking trail is discovered in the Annapurna region. Travelers call it the Khopara trek whereas nature enthusiasts call it ‘utopia’.
In this blog, we shall take a broad look into the mysteries enveloping the Khopara trek and additional details.
A. HIGHLIGHTS OF THE TREK
Surreal pictures of the Annapurna mountain range and the green hills
Walking past the picturesque villages to the Khorpa ridge
Exploring the Gurung settlements and visiting the Gurung Museum in Ghandruk
Observing pristine rivers, lakes, waterfalls, and streams in the Annapurna Conservation Area
Walking past the densely forested trails that are filled with rhododendron and other plants
B. Basking in the glory of Khayer Lake
The Khopara trek normally lasts from 12-15 days. We have an itinerary for you that you can observe to understand how the trek looks like.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2: Kathmandu valley sightseeing and acclimatization
Day 3: Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara and sightseeing in Pokhara
Day 4: Head to Nayapul and trek to Tikhedhunga
Day 5: Trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani
Day 6: Hike to Poon Hill in the morning and trek to Dobato
Day 7: Trek to the Dobato Khopra Danda
Day 8: Hike to the Khayar Lake
Day 9: Trek from the Khayar Lake to Tatopani
Day 10: Head back to Pokhara
Day 11: Pokhara valley exploring and flying back to Kathmandu
Day 12: Departure from Kathmandu
The itinerary can be adjusted according to your needs. Be sure to contact us if you need any sort of modifications.
C. PERMIT REQUIREMENTS
While taking this trek, you need two types of permits. They are the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekking Information Management System (TIMS). The ACAP costs USD 27 whereas the TIMS card costs USD 10. These permits are mandatory if you wish to take other treks like the tsum valley trek.
D. BEST TIME TO TAKE THIS TREK
If you wish to gain the optimum trekking experience, then you must travel at the correct time. The best time to explore Khopara is from the start of March to the end of May. The view during this time is stunning and you can observe dense rhododendron forests too. The post-monsoon period starting from September to the end of December is also a great time to traverse the Khopra ridge.
E. FOOD AND ACCOMMODATION
Like the Manasalu trek, the Khopara trek is also a complete teahouse trek. There aren’t any fancy facilities but they are good enough for daily survival. You will reside in teahouses in Khopara Danda, Tatopani, and Ghorepani. The price of accommodation is relatively cheap as it costs a maximum of up to USD 5-8 for one room.
In terms of food, you will dine on typical Nepali cuisine. As you head to the higher elevations, people here eat dhido instead of rice. There aren’t any fancy foods available here so if you have cravings, you must carry some with you.
F. DIFFICULTY LEVEL
In the Khopara trek, you have to trek for at least 8 days. You have to walk for at least 5 hours a day on average. The trail is mostly uphill and the elevation increase by at least 700m daily. As the hike takes place in the hills, you won’t find flat trails. You will have to walk past slippery tracks and terrain to reach the ultimate destination. So, yes, it is quite a bit difficult.<
G. WHAT SHOULD MY FITNESS CONDITION BE?
You might be a bit scared thinking that this trek is tough. Well, fear not as you can take the Khopara trek with just a little bit of practice. For starters, you can go running in the morning to increase your stamina. You can do exercises that strengthen your shoulders and legs. Do these exercises one month before taking the trek and you’ll be good to go!
H. WHAT DO I NEED TO CARRY WHILE TAKING THIS TREK?
Here are some of the equipment that you need to carry while taking the Khopara trek. Furthermore, you can take this equipment with you while doing other treks too.
Depending upon the season, you can decide which items are a must.
I. CONCLUSION
The Khopara trek will take you to the less-visited trails in the Annapurna region. It is a popular alternative to the Annapurna base camp trek. This trek will help you understand the true beauty of nature and appreciate it too.
.webp)
