Best of Annapurna Dhaulagiri Trip (Khopra Trek)
Remote trek into the heart of Annapurna’s and the world's deepest gorge.
Best of Annapurna Dhaulagiri is one of our best treks in Nepal; nowhere else you get such a rich feast of spectacular scenery, isolation and varied Himalayan culture. This moderate two week long Annapurna Dhaulagiri trek is both remote and scenic. It passes through many traditional villages, beautiful forests and rarely trekked high alpine pastures, offering magnificent views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. From the Pokhara valley, we gradually ascend through tiny settlements and pristine forests to the alpine heights of Khopra ridge at 3800 meter. The views from our Khopra camp are incredible with the colossal ramparts of Dhaulagiri plunging to the misty depths of the Kali Gandaki-the deepest gorge in the world. Our trail leads further up towards the pristine Holy Khaire Lake situated beneath the awesome Fang Face of Annapurna I, where ancient pilgrim trails lead to the sacred water.
Our office representative welcomes you on your arrival in Kathmandu airport and transfer to the hotel in Kathmandu where pre-trek arrival briefing and other information will be given. The evening will be highlighted by a traditional Royal Nepal welcome dinner accompanied with trek guide as a perfect end of your very arrival day in the Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal.
Today you have time to explore Kathmandu-valley, which has more World Heritage sites than any other city in the world. This capital city has an amazing range of traditional fascinating highlights, whatever your interest. In our morning exploration of the cultural sights and sounds in Kathmandu, we will visit the Baudhanath stupa, a biggest Buddhist shrine in Nepal and Pashupatinath a most important Hindu temple, where you have chance to witness the cremation done in public way. After the guided tour afternoon is time for the Pre trek detail briefing and hand over of warm gears that the company provides. Then you are free to pack, purchase last minutes items for your trek or simply relax.
Approx 6-7 hrs.
Early in the morning we drive form Kathmandu to Pokhara, Nepal's second largest lake city. As we leave the capital city, our bus follows the winding road over the valley rim and descends onto the valley where the Trisuli River follows the journey is slow and steady as the road winds through villages passing terraces fields and we soon catch glimpses of the high eye-catching mountain ranges of Ganesh, Manasula, and Annapurna. Normally, we arrive Pokhara by mid afternoon so you have time to explore this pretty lake city. You can even hire a boat to visit Island Barahi temple and get some great photos from middle of the Phewa lake, We will stay at hotel in Pokhara.
Approx 6 hrs walk.
This morning we take about a one hour drive to the trek starting point, Nayapul. We start walking by crossing a suspension bridge then along the bank of Glacier River called Modi Khola and stop for lunch at Syauli Bazzar. From here on we ascend the foothills passing through the villages with the views of terraces where we can see the farmers harvesting the rice and ploughing their fields in their ancient way. As we go up, the sacred mountain Machhapuchhre (Fish-tail) pops up to surprise you! After a slow and steady walk we reach Ghandruk, a beautiful settlement of Gurung for overnight, where the huge mountains like Annapurna south (7219m). Hiunchuli (7893m) and Nepal who normally like to join British Gorkha Army. We can visit the Gurung museum and the Headquarters of Annapurna Conservation Area project (ACAP) if time allows us!
Approx. 4-5 hrs walk.
Today we trek along the meandering trail uphill towards Tadpani, a clearing in the mid of the forest and a rest place as well as a wonderful teahouse for the lodge trekkers. We pass through the ancient forest of rhododendron and magnolia and see small ferns and delicate plants as we pass lots of waterfalls. In the afternoon we can observe the local people and their market, which is very fascinating to first time visitors.
Approx 6-7 hrs walk.
We leave the main trekking trail and head to the less defined path through forest to a grassy clearing to the isolated house with wonderful views of mount Dhaulagiri just in front of the teahouse door. The area provides itself to exploration and appreciation of the mountains, flora and fauna. Walking onto the ridge that flows from the very summit of Annapurna South unfolds some of the wonderful views of entire Annapurna range. Today you may be fortunate to see some of the wildlife like Himalayan Thar, Rhesus and Langur monkeys etc.
Approx 3-4 hrs walk.
We leave our footprints through the pristine Himalayan forest of rhododendron to our lunch camp below the Kopra Ridge. We start our walk with a Greenland down hill till the Chistibung River from where we have a gradual uphill, while the birds play the fine melody in their songs.
Approx 3-4 hrs walk.
Today the trail leads us the Khopra ridge that flows from the very summit of Annapurna South. Steady and slow walking onto the gradual uphill, eventually helps us to reach to the most fascinating place of our entire trek for the spellbound views of Annapurna I, Annapurna Fang, Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Tukche Peak, Nilgiri with a vast contrast to the Kali Gandaki Gorge Valley, at around 7000 meters deep, the deepest gorge in the world. It is hard to imagine that these entire high mountains were once a part of ocean floor. Trekking to the vantage point we may see the spectacular National bird of Nepal Danphe Pheasant and other wild life on the rocky cliffs.
Approx 7-8 hrs walk.
Today we take full day exploration hike to the holy Khaire Lake. The views are magnificent everywhere, including Annapurna South, Bhraha Shikhar, Nilgiris and the mighty Dhaulagiris. For those who feeling fit and enthusiastic, the trip to Khaire Lake high above us is well worth the effort, not only for views and the feeling of exhilaration after your achievement but to see shrines that are the site of the annual Baudha Purnima Festival. The walk takes us even closer to the sheer cliff face of Annapurna South Fang. After the Exploration to the lake we will descend down to the Khopa Danda.
Approx 5-6 hrs walk.
An early morning wakeup fascinates you with an astounding mountain views. The true beauty of Nepalese villages, which are perched in far hills and the world's renowned gigantic mountains, are accentuated in its glory by the softness of a morning sun. We take the day easy as the walk today is only downhill. We retrace our trail till Chistibung; stop there for a little while to say Hello to the lodge owner. The trail now leads more downhill into the oak forest with lots of zigzags. Very soon the trail opens into a pastureland by the side of a stream where our boys will set up a picnic lunch. The huge silver fir, age old rhododendrons and oak trees makes a perfect canopy for delicate primulas and daphne. This dense forest provides a perfect heaven for bird life. For bird lovers today is a good opportunity. After crossing Chistibung Khola in a small wooden bridge our trail climbs steadily uphill for some time and flattens again which puts us to Swanta village. We do over night camping in the proximity of one of the house, which gives you profound opportunity to intermingle with the local people. Afternoon is free in exploring the village.
Approx 4-5 hrs walk.
The gigantic mountain Dhaulagiri greets you. Today's walk is gradual up hill till Ghorepani passing through colorful villages inhabited by Magar ethnic group, who make up the backbone of the famous Gurkha regiments of the British and Indian armies. We follow the Pokhara-Jomsom trail that is the old Tibet-Nepal trade route, provides and interesting insight into the daily life of the western part of Nepal.
Approx 5-6 hrs walk.
Today you enjoy the walk from all aspects. As the morning sun hits the ground, outside views are spectacular with those titanic mountains we have been seeing all along the trek but this time from a different angle. Our morning excursion starts with a gradual uphill walk to Poon Hill (3220m) to the world's top destination for panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri, Annapurna and Manasalu ranges. Then there is the excitement of passing through colourful villages inhabited by different ethnic groups who, although being so different from each other, still live in close harmony. This gives plenty of opportunity to understand their culture and way of life. We follow the theory what goes up must come down that is today's walk. The trail descends via Ulleri to Thirkedunga a tiny village for an overnight stay where you have another chance to mix with Nepalese people.
Approx 3 hrs walk/one and half hrs. Drive.
Another change in the landscape, today you walk mostly along the bank of the Bhurungdi River where you have a chance to cross suspension bridges adding more excitement. After a pleasant three hours walk passing through villages you get to Nayapul (literally means New Bridge) and an hour drive to Pokhara. Afternoon is all free to explore the Lake city and relax.
This morning, we have a flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu; it is a thrilling exciting flight over the fields and villages with the Himalayas at the background. On arrival, we transfer to the hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure.
It is time to fly back to home keeping all the exhilarating experiences of Nepal in mind. Please make sure that you have collected all valuable from the security department. Those people travelling by aircraft to further destination will be transferred to the airport and assisted with check in procedures.
Airport pick up and drop in a private vehicle as per the itinerary.
Hotel accommodation on B.B Basis in Kathmandu and Pokhara as per the itinerary.
Teahouse(lodge) accommodation during the trek.
Meals during the trek as per the Trip package. For Full Board all meals B.fast, lunch and dinner with a cup of hot beverage of choice.
Welcome Dinner in a typical Nepalese restaurant with cultural show, beverages not included.
Use of warm gears such as Sleeping bag, Liner, Down jacket and Big Duffle bag.
Domestic flights as per the itinerary.
All applicable Permits for National Park entrance and tours to World heritage sites as per the trip package.
An experienced English speaking Group Leader and Guide for the Trek and Tours.
Service of Assistant Sherpa and Porters during the trek.
Staff Cost including the Insurance, Wages, Meals and Domestic flights during the trek and Climbing is covered.
All necessary Government and Local Taxes.
International Fare and Visa Fee ( US$25 FOR 15 Days, US$ 40 FOR 30 Days);
Note: No Visa required for Indian nationals.
Any Travel and rescue insurance.
Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara, also in some tours as per the trip package.
Personal expenses on laundry, beverages, cameras and gadgets charging and hot showers in treks and tours.
Excess Baggage charges at the Domestic airport.
Extra expenses due to flight delays and cancellations.
Extra Night in Kathmandu or Pokhara hotel because of early arrival, late departure, early return from mountain ( due to any unforeseen reason ).
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu ( also in the case of early return from mountain ).
Gratuity and Tips for the Local trekking staff, guides and drivers.
Definitely! Our airport representative or your group Leader will be there catering you from day of your arrival till departure. Do check for MNT clip board on your arrival in Kathmandu airport outside the arrival terminal hall. Make sure you have provided your flight details to us in advance.
Yes, you can obtain Nepal tourist visa on arrival at Kathmandu International Airport. In fact for some countries Nepal visa is to be prearranged from their country itself prior to their entry to Nepal. For more details please check Nepal Visa and Entry Procedure in our website.
Any sort of vaccination is not mandatory while visiting Nepal. But we strongly suggest for a personal medical consent before you sign up for ‘ Visit Nepal’ packages if you have any pre medical history.
MNT has no overhead expenses on overseas offices. This means we can offer top quality service and facilities at a competitive price to exceed your expectation. No Hidden cost. The trip cost includes from your accommodation, local flight, private transportation, tours, trek permit, National Park or conservation fees to all meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) while on trek, for details link to Cost inclusion and exclusion. In every detail, we set the highest possible standards from safety to the high quality type of warm gears and food provided to meet the international standard. We balance of exploration and relaxation, comfort and adventure at its best.
To book your spot on any of our trips, please fill up the online booking form at our website www.mysticalnepaltreks.com and send it to us along with the trip Security Deposit of 20% per person. Deposit can be paid by bank swift transfer, please see details in the website. On receipt of your booking details we will send you Trip Confirmation Receipt of your booking.
Typically our trekking days involve 4 to 8 hours of walking per day, including a lunch stop.The trail varies from easy hiking on the lower elevation to the strenuous walking over 5000 meter in Himalayas. A common misconception is that if you are a slow walker you may hold people back – Not So. The group members string out and there will always be one local staff walking with the last one, usually the Group Leader stays last. You walk at your own pace and stop when you feel like. There will always be our Trekking Sherpa, the assistant to guide who will be leading from the front ensuring that no one gets lost.
Trekking Days are so designed that the walking is enjoyable and safe. The companionship of other trekkers and staff positive attitude creates great environment and many memorable events. The day begins early at 6.30 am with a wakeup call. Before breakfast pack your gears into duffle bag by keeping some essential things in your daypack. After breakfast, we are usually on the trail by 8am and following a good morning walk, we stop for lunch break for about an hour. Continuing our walk for the second part of the day we reach the days destination usually around 4.00 pm as the afternoon walk is usually shorter than the morning. Having afternoon tea you can relax, read or have some game activities involving the local staff. Dinner is usually served around 6.30 to 7.00 pm.
We book clean and comfortable teahouse which we know very well. Our standard trips are based on twin bedded sharing accommodation. We can book private room for you if you like to add a supplement cost as per your requirement.
We offer the OPEN AND CHOICE MENU in our teahouse trek where you can select the food on your breakfast, lunch and dinner time. Your guide will help with menu selection and ensure that you get the hygienic, plentiful and nutritious food. Most teahouse offer a variety if rice and noodle dishes, as well as seasonal vegetables. A variety of cereals, bread and egg dishes are generally available for the breakfast.
We have our own experienced trek cook on all of the camping trips. We adhere to strict hygiene guidelines. To start the day, breakfast consists of a choice of porridge, muesli and cereal followed by omelet, fried or scrambled egg with bread. Lunch is generally a selection of salad, cooked vegetable dishes, pasta and traditional bread. Dinner is a hearty 3 course meal, starting with soup followed by main course and sweet dessert, tea coffee etc. Your trek leader is generally taking good supervision of how things are done in the kitchen keeping in control for hygiene and safety.
We are aware about the protection of our fragile environment while organizing trekking and climbing trips. We discourage in buying the plastic bottled mineral water as currently there is no proper provision for waste management. For that matter in our Everest treks for anything over a group of 4 persons we provide boiled water every evening prepared and served by our Sherpa into your personal drinking water bottles. We also recommend use of purification stuff for your personal use. And for the Annapurna treks the villages provide Safe Drinking water at stations and teahouse.
There is a beautiful saying that if you want to come up with any new ideas go walking. Trekking in the wilderness of Nepal has so much variation and also depends on the choice of your destination. Terrain varies from effortless to strenuous plus yet with a very well organized itinerary and enough time for adaptation makes a difference in the genre of trekking.
As for the level of fitness and trek preparation we suggest that trekking in Nepal mountains is not appropriate for someone with very weak ankles, knee, heart or lungs problems and for all these your doctor’s advice is obligatory. But even the kids of early age to the adults of 70 plus have walked to varied landscapes of Nepal. However Mystical Nepal Treks designed itinerary are flexible and attainable. Nevertheless trekking is not a walk in the park, it includes tremendous amount of ups and downs so to prepare for any trips in Nepal you need to train yourself with the everyday undulating walking with the amount of weight you could carry in your daypack.
We are committed on the welfare of our staff from trek Leaders/Guides to Sherpas, Cooks, and Porters. We ensure good wages, salary provident fund, proper insurance, to the equipment and clothing. They are the most valuable members of our organization and the people who make every trip a success.
You need general travel insurance and trip cancellation insurance, as well as rescue insurance. Read your policy’s fine print to make sure it covers you for trekking or climbing, depending on what trip you have booked, and that it covers you for helicopter evacuation.
In case of a serious sickness or a casualty, which we believe will not happen; you shall be rescued by a helicopter. Since you are entirely liable for all the expenses incurred in evacuation please make sure that it is covered by your insurance before assigning for it or be prepared to pay on your own after getting back in Kathmandu.
MNT trip itineraries have been professionally designed to minimize the effects of High Altitude sickness. Extensive medical kit is carried on all our trips. In addition Portable Altitude Chamber Bag ( a life saving device) is brought as a safety backup on high elevation treks and expeditions. All our Leaders and Guides are well trained in Wilderness Medicine and First Aid Course who are competent to recognize any mountain ailment and act accordingly on the spot.
Trekking in Nepal Himalayas is an adventure holiday thus do not expect shower each day. Now days, some of the teahouses up to 4000 meters have hot shower facilities depending on the trekking regions. Laundry services are available at limited place on trek.
You will be carrying your day pack with warm clothes, rain pocho, drinking water, snacks, sun block, camera etc. you need for the day. Generally it will be light around 3 to 4 kilos.
Most airlines fly direct to Bangkok from North America, Europe and Australia and New Zealand. From there Thai Airways fly direct to Kathmandu 10 times a week. Silk Air ( Singapore Airlines) and Cathay Pacific via Hong kong also has regular flights and there are many flights via Doha, Qatar, New Delhi, Hong Kong to Kathmandu.
All our trip itinerary have an arrival and departure day from Kathmandu so you can arrive and leave Kathmandu as per the program. You are also welcome and encouraged to arrive a day earlier or leave Nepal a day later to have a look around the vibrant Kathmandu Valley. MNT arrange any extra activities as per your interest outside the main package.
Yes, the facility is available almost each teahouse at a cost of usually about 2 to 3 US$ per hour. We use the voltages 220 – 240 volts to power and 2 point plugs is recommended to bring.
It depends if you are used to it is very handy. It is recommended for knee support and for down hills specially. The walk is manageable without them at times.
Yes there are dozens of trekking shops in Thamel area of Kathmandu. Our trekking guide will be happy to assist you in this regard.
It works in most major cities. Check with your service provider before you go if they have a reciprocal agreement with countries you are travelling to and make sure you remember to get international roaming turned on. You can also buy a local mobile SIM card in Kathmandu.
It is notoriously difficult to predict the weather conditions in the Himalayas. Normally days are warm and nights are cold. There can be snow or rain storms at any time. Between 1000 and 3500 meters the temperature could go as high as 20 degree celsius to 5 degree. At higher altitude the temperature ranges from 20 degrees to -10 degree celsius. During winter month of December the days are 10 degree colder. Good polarizing sunglasses for high altitude and large brimmed hat are really helpful. Expect the unexpected.
Tipping is an accepted part of trekking although it is completely personal matter. The amount depends on your budget and appreciation of their work. Up to 10% of the trip cost as tipping could be a guideline.
Before we depart for the trek all your left luggage and valuable is to be deposited in the safety store and safety deposit box at the hotel or you could also feel safe with MNT office for storage which you can claim effortlessly on your return after trek.
The maximum weight they allow you is 15 kilos that is including your hand carry bag.