Complete Guide to the Mohare and Khopra Danda Trek
30 Jun 2025 6 min to read
Outdoor Himalayan presents a complete guide to the Mohare and Khopra Danda Trek. A new popular alternative trek in the Annapurna region which mesmerizes trekkers for their pristine beauty. The highlight of this trek is that these treks are popular as the Annapurna Dhaulagiri Community Lodge trek. The least explored countryside beauty, the region’s rich Magar and Gurung cultures, sunrise and sunset views, and several mountain peak views lure everyone. Reaching the highest point of the trek, the sacred Khayer Lake offers beautiful surrounding mountain views and the Khayer Lake itself.
Why Choose the Mohare and Khopra Danda Trek?
Peaceful Trail and Less Crowded: The Mohare and Khopra Danda Trek offers a quiet, less-crowded alternative to popular routes, allowing for a more peaceful journey.
Forested Trails in the Vicinity of Oak and Pine Trees: The trail passes through dense forests of oak and pine, providing shade and a tranquil atmosphere.
Mesmerizing Sunrise or Sunset Views: Mohare Danda offers breathtaking sunrise and sunset views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Stunning Views of Annapurna South: Khayer Lake, a sacred site, offers stunning views of Annapurna South and its surrounding peaks.
Spectacular Views of snow-covered peaks: The trek offers spectacular panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Tukuche, and Annapurna South.
Rich Culture, and Natural Flora and Fauna: The trek blends rich Magar and Gurung culture with diverse flora, fauna, and stunning natural landscapes.
Also Read: Complete Guide to the Upper Mustang Trek
Key Information at a Glance
Maximum Elevation: 4,600 m (Khayer Lake)
Physical Grading: Moderate
Best Seasons: Spring (March-May) & Autumn (September-November)
Accommodation: Basic teahouses along the trail
Meals: Full board during the trek (healthy, hygienic meals)
Permits Required: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), Machhapuchhre Rural Municipality Permit,and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS)
Trek Route:
Galeshwor – Banskharka– Nangi – Mohare Danda – Swanta – Dhankharka – Khopra Danda – Khayer Lake – Khopra Danda – Dobato – Ghandruk
Day-to-Day Short Overview
Day 01: Kathmandu arrival (1400 m)
Arrive in Kathmandu, get welcomed by the representative, and transfer to the hotel.
Day 02: Drive to Pokhara via tourist bus (822 m)
Adoring the surrounding scenery drive to Pokhara which takes 7-8 hours.
Day 03: Drive to Galeshwor (1170 m), trek to Banskharka (1526 m)
Drive to Galeshwor on a jeep and trek to Banskharka via Mallaj.
Day 04: Trek to Nangi (2300 m)
Admiring the beautiful scenery, trek to Nangi via Danda Kateri.
Day 05: Trek to Mohare Danda (3300 m)
Walk on an ascending trail through the dense forest and cherish spectacular mountain views.
Day 06: Trek to Swanta (2214 m)
Climb uphill to Dandako Naak and trek to Swanta via Phalate.
Day 07: Trek to Dhankharka (Chistibung) (3000 m)
Pass through a forested trail to Dhankharka (Chistibung).
Day 08: Trek to Khopra Danda/Ridge (3660 m)
Traverse through dense forest and ascend uphill to Khopra Danda/Ridge.
Day 09: Acclimatization Day: Khayer Lake Hike (4600 m) and return
Hike to sacred Khayer Lake and adore the stunning Annapurna South.
Day 10: Trek to Dobato (3425 m)
Walk past green valleys and trek downhill to Dobato.
Day 11: Trek to Ghandruk (2012 m), jeep ride to Pokhara
Trek to the beautiful Gurung village of Ghandruk and return to Pokhara via jeep ride.
Day 12: Drive to Kathmandu (1400 m)
Drive to Kathmandu after completing the Khopra Danda trek.
Day 13: International departure
Transfer to the airport for an international departure.
Suggested: Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Accommodation and Meals
Community lodges or Homestays offer accommodations with twin-sharing rooms and healthy and hygienic meals. Washrooms are mostly outside the teahouses. Traditional Nepali dishes, with limited Indian and continental cuisines, are food choices. Mineral water bottles or boiled water are available for drinking.
Preparation and Fitness
Mohare and Khopra Danda is a moderate trek that takes you to the maximum elevation of 4,600 m (Khayer Lake). It demands that the trekkers be both physically and mentally fit. We suggest participating in exercises focusing on hiking and endurance before commencing the trek. Strictly following the guidelines, following acclimatization schedules, and staying hydrated proves beneficial during the trek.
Gear and Packing List
Warm clothing: Insulating layers, down jackets, trekking pants, thermals
Trekking boots: Durable, waterproof boots
Sleeping bag: Suitable for temperatures as low as (-5°C)
Accessories: Sunglasses, sunscreen, hats, trekking poles, headlamps, and a water purification system
Permits and Fees
The Mohare and Khopra Danda trek requires two compulsory permits.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Foreigners- NPR 3000/person
SAARC- NPR 1000/person
Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS)
Foreigners- NPR 2000/person
SAARC- NPR 1000/person
Diplomats/Foreign Officials & their families- NPR 500/person
Best Seasons to Trek
The Mohare and Khopra Danda trek is possible to do in all seasons, which offers various experiences. However, Autumn (September to November) and Spring (March to May) seasons are best as there is stable weather and moderate temperatures. It offers clear views and comfortable walking trails. The blooming flowers during the Spring and the festive season vibes during the Autumn are enchanting. The Winter and Monsoon season treks are unpleasant due to the slippery trails and unfavorable weather. However, trekking is possible with proper planning and preparations.
Also Read: Top Autumn Treks in Nepal
Conclusion
The Mohare and Khopra Danda trek is one of the best alternative treks in the Annapurna region. The peaceful hiking trails take you to the countryside that offers the untouched beauty of the region. The close-up mountain views along with the sunrise and sunset views fascinate you. The local indigenous Magar and Gurung culture and spending time with them provide new insights into their lifestyle. Staying in community lodges also offers a new trek experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Mohare and Khopra Danda Trek?
The Mohare and Khopra Danda trek takes around 10 to 12 days to complete.
Do I need a guide for the Mohare and Khopra Danda Trek?
A licensed guide is mandatory, and it is highly recommended for the Mohare and Khopra Danda Trek.
Can I do the Mohare and Khopra Danda Trek independently?
An Independent Mohare and Khopra Danda Trek is strictly prohibited.
Are there any age restrictions for the Mohare and Khopra Danda Trek?
There are no age restrictions, but we still recommend parental guidance for children below 16.
Are there any alternative routes or side trips on the Mohare and Khopra Danda Trek?
Some popular side trips on the Mohare and Khopra Danda Treks are the nearby indigenous Gurung and Magar villages.
Are there ATM facilities available along the Mohare and Khopra Danda Trek?
There are no ATM facilities on the Mohare and Khopra Danda Trek route. We highly suggest carrying enough cash (in Nepalese rupees) to cover your expenses throughout the trek.
Are there any communication facilities available during the Mohare and Khopra Danda Trek?
There are limited communication facilities, such as mobile network coverage and Wi-Fi, along the Mohare and Khopra Danda Trek.
Can I extend or customize the Mohare and Khopra Danda Trek?
Yes, the Mohare and Khopra Danda Trek can be extended or customized, and consult with a trekking agency for it.
