Itineraries vary with the route, lodge availability and conditions. This is a typical 8-day plan that combines Poon Hill with the Khopra Ridge. Altitudes are approximate.
Day by day
Altitudes and walking times on this page are approximate and differ a little between maps, GPS devices and lodges. Treat them as planning figures, not survey data.
- Pokhara to Nayapul by road, walk to Tikhedhunga or Ulleri.
- Climb the Ulleri steps to Ghorepani (about 2,860 m).
- Poon Hill at sunrise (about 3,210 m), then walk to Chistibung (about 2,500 m).
- Chistibung to a village or camp on the way up, for example near Bayeli Kharka, depending on the lodge.
- Walk up to Khopra Danda (about 3,660 m). Sunset on the ridge.
- Rest or side trip to Khayer Lake. See below.
- Return to Chistibung or Ghorepani.
- Ghorepani to Nayapul and a drive to Pokhara.
Alternative routes
You can also reach Khopra from Tadapani or Ghandruk, or climb from Ghorepani via Mohare Danda (about 3,300 m). Different routes change days and views. Ask us for the best one for your dates.
Why one night at Khopra is not enough
Khopra Ridge is over 3,000 m, so a rest night helps. A spare day lets you walk to Khayer Lake or wait out weather. See the route to Khayer Lake.
Spare days
Keep at least one spare day for snow or cloud, especially in March and November.
Combine with ABC
From Tadapani you can continue to Chhomrong and Annapurna Base Camp. See Poon Hill extensions and combinations.
A word on stages
The stage between Chistibung and the ridge is the hardest. It is long and steep, and water points are few. Start early, carry lunch and keep a steady pace.
If the weather turns
Cloud and fresh snow can hide the trail. Your guide may suggest staying a night longer at a lodge or turning back via a lower route. Having a spare day makes this an easy decision.
Common questions
How many days for Khopra Ridge?
About 7 to 9 days from Pokhara, including Poon Hill.
Is Khopra a loop?
It can be: up one route, down another.
Can I add Khayer Lake?
Yes, with a spare day and good weather.
