Dhaulagiri, the world's seventh highest mountain as seen from Kopra Ridge | Patrick O'Shea
Dhaulagiri, the world's seventh highest mountain as seen from Kopra Ridge  | Patrick O'Shea
A World Expeditions trekker enjoys a warm cup of tea at daybreak to the breathtaking views of the Annapurna massif from our exclusive eco campsite at Pulbari  | Sue Badyari
Delicious meals prepared on our Nepal treks  | Sue Badyari
Our Eco-Comfort Camps in the Annapurna region are exclusively for our trekkers  | Sue Badyari
Trek through the small and traditional Gurung villages of the Annapurna region, meeting the locals and gaining a close insight into the lifestyles of these friendly communities  | Sue Badyari
Enjoy the traditional Gurung villages of the Annapurna region with the towering Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges providing the ideal backdrop  | Sue Badyari

Annapurna Dhaulagiri in Comfort

Trek to the stunning Kopra Ridge for views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri


 114 reviews

16 Days from

$2720 USD

Trip Code: AND
View dates to BookEssential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Ultimate Annapurna Dhaulagiri Single Supplement hotel only
$170 USD
Ultimate Annapurna Dhaulagiri Single Supplement Tent Only
$190 USD
Ultimate Annapurna Dhaulagiri Single Supplement
$360 USD
Ultimate Annapurna Dhaulagiri Exclusive Departure
$660 USD

Duration

  • 16 Days

Activities

  • 12 day trek

Accommodation

  • 4 nights hotel
  • 6 nights private eco campsite
  • 5 nights eco lodge

Meals

Valued at USD$600

  • 12 Dinners
  • 12 Lunches
  • 15 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading  

5 / 10

Moderate

Annapurna Dhauligiri trek to Khopra Ridge Trip highlights

  • Be swept away by breathtaking views of the Dhaulagiri & Annapurna ranges
  • Traverse the high pastures above Kopra Ridge beneath Annapurna South, where ancient pilgrim trails lead to the sacred Khayer Lake
  • Wander old yak herder trails to Upper Phulbari, above the level of often visited Poon Hill
  • Take in the views on a Himalayan mountain flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara
  • Explore Kathmandu's vibrant streets and ancient sites

Overview

This unforgettable trek through Nepal’s iconic Annapurna region is one of the most rewarding Annapurna trekking tours available, perfect for those seeking stunning mountain scenery, rich cultural encounters and a thoughtfully paced adventure. Ideal for first-time trekkers, this carefully crafted itinerary offers a gentle acclimatisation profile, comfortable altitudes, and varied terrain, making it an excellent introduction to Himalayan trekking.

Our unique route begins in the lush foothills, winding through terraced farmlands, traditional Gurung and Magar villages, and pristine rhododendron forests before rising to the alpine heights of Kopra Ridge, one of the most spectacular vantage points in the entire Annapurna range. From here, take in extraordinary views of Dhaulagiri’s colossal face, plunging into the depths of the Kali Gandaki, the world’s deepest gorge.

One of the many highlights of this Annapurna trekking tour is the journey beyond the beaten track to the sacred Khayer Lake, nestled beneath the Fang Face of Annapurna I. This serene glacial lake, reached via ancient pilgrimage trails, offers a quiet spiritual dimension and a true sense of Himalayan isolation without technical difficulty or extreme altitude.

This trek exemplifies World Expeditions’ pioneering approach to adventure. Designed by our expert Himalayan team and refined over decades, this is more than just a walk - it’s a curated experience that brings to life the landscapes, culture and legends of the Annapurna region. We avoid the busiest trails, instead offering paths less travelled that allow for meaningful encounters and quiet moments in the mountains.

Along the way, you’ll stay in our exclusive Eco-Comfort Camps, set in stunning, secluded locations. These permanent camps feature raised beds with mattresses and clean linen, and the opportunity to connect with our local support crew in a warm, relaxed environment. More than just a place to rest your head, these camps enhance the experience with comfort and character, while minimising environmental impact and spreading economic benefits to remote communities.

Your journey is made even more rewarding with our unbeatable list of inclusions. All meals on trek are freshly prepared by our dedicated cooks, and we include unlimited boiled water, daily hot drinks, and a 5kg extra baggage allowance on domestic flights. Our included Trek Pack saves you hundreds in gear hire - you’ll receive a high-quality down jacket, sleeping bag, insulated mat and more. Safety is always paramount, with a well-paced itinerary, wilderness first aid-trained guides, and medical equipment like a Portable Altitude Chamber (PAC). And, through our Pioneering Porter Policy, we ensure our crew is properly outfitted, insured, and treated with the same care as our trekkers.

If you're seeking a quality, immersive and off-the-beaten-track experience, this is one of the best Annapurna trekking tours available - balancing comfort, adventure, culture, and our signature World Expeditions quality every step of the way.

Itinerary

Expand all | Collapse all

You will be met by a representative of World Expeditions and transferred to the Radisson hotel. Remainder of the afternoon at leisure. A pre-trek briefing will be given around 4.30-5pm where arrangements will be made for the distribution of your kit bag, sleeping bag and down/fibrefill jacket. This evening we will head out for dinner, this is a great opportunity to get acquainted with your fellow group members. Overnight: Radisson Hotel

Meals: Nil

Today you have a full day to explore Kathmandu’s bustling streets and significant landmarks. You may wish to start by exploring the city’s two most important World Heritage Listed spiritual sites: Pashupatinath, Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple and an important cremation site; and Boudhanath, the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal and the most sacred Tibetan Buddhist shrine outside of Tibet. Alternatively you could wander through the markets and shops of the busy Thamel precinct or explore some more of the city’s significant sites such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) or the World Heritage Listed plazas of Patan, Bhaktapur or Durbar Square. It is possible that the Kathmandu free day will take place at the conclusion of your trek instead of at the beginning. If this is to occur with your group, your leader will brief you locally.

Meals: B

This morning we take a flight west to Pokhara, Nepal’s second largest town (820m). In good weather we are greeted with sights of the entire Annapurna Range. From here we drive for an hour to a pass between two river valleys to the village of Phedi, where we commence our trek. There is no need to rush as this is a short day with plenty of time to reach our overnight stop. The trail ascends for the first hour, following a ridge through fields of bamboo clusters to magnificent rhododendron forest. Villagers greet us with “Namaste”, the traditional Nepalese greeting, as we pass their homes and continue to the ridge top where at the crest the scale of the mountains astounds us. Machapuchare (6993m), Hiunchuli (6441m) and Annapurna South (7219m) can be seen from our immediate viewpoint. Overnight eco lodge.

Meals: B,L,D

After a glorious mountain sunrise we follow the trail through rhododendron forest before continuing through a series of Gurung villages where lifestyles have not changed substantially over the centuries. After lunch we follow a well-marked trail to the prosperous village of Landruk where we camp for the night. Our private eco campsite affords dramatic views of Annapurna South.

Meals: B,L,D

Our destination today is easily seen across the valley, the attractive Gurung village of Ghandruk. We exit the village and slowly descend through rice terraces, crossing a steel bridge that spans the glacial river of the Modi Khola and commence our ascent. As we trek up the many staircases, we enjoy the beauty of the Himalaya at a relatively close range and observe the glaciers flowing from them to form the rivers below us. It really is a magnificent location and a photographer's delight. Our leisurely approach along these ridges with their fine mountain views ensures proper acclimatisation and the un-hurried opportunity to fully savour this magnificent scenery. Overnight at exclusive eco-comfort camp.

Meals: B,L,D

Our trail meanders uphill through fields and into forest of rhododendron, magnolia and lichen covered fig. We pass by waterfalls that cascade down narrow gullies that provide the perfect home for many small ferns and delicate plants such as exotic orchids bursting with colour. Tadapani is a small village with limited campsites, our overnight accommodation will be in an eco lodge. This is the last stop before we head into the more uninhabited regions of our trek.

Meals: B,L,D

Leaving the main trekking trail we continue to ascend on a less defined path through old growth forest where we may be fortunate enough to see Himalayan Thar, Hyrax or Ressus and Langur monkeys. Eventually we rise above the tree line and gain stunning views of the Annapurna Himal, our lunch spot will most likely be a yak pasture at Timuje perched high on the hillside with fantastic views of Annapurna South and Himul Chuli. Following our lunch break we ascend steeply to the ridge where spectacular views of Dhaulagiri and it's surrounding peaks unfold before us. This section of the trek is magnificent and we are now well off the main trail. Continuing down the opposite side of the ridge we drop into smaller rhododendron forest and arrive at our remote campsite high on the hillside overlooking the valley.

Meals: B,L,D

Setting off early today we make our way downward towards the valley floor, eventually entering the old growth forest, surrounded by colourful rhododendron. We glimpse a small settlement lower down at Chistibung, which will be our lunch spot. After a relaxing lunch we begin our ascent to the stunning location of the eco lodge at Kopra. The accommodation options are limited to one lodge in this area and tents are not allowed to be pitched, we will utilise the best possible rooms. The views here are truly amazing and some of the best in the entire Annapurna range. Dhaulagiri dominates the scene and towers above the deepest gorge in the world, the Kali Gandaki.

Meals: B,L,D

For those who are feeling fit and motivated for a big day hike, and dependent on weather and route conditions, the trip to the sacred Khayer Lake high above us is well worth the effort. The views are outstanding and you will trekking along an ancient pilgrimage trail to the site of the annual Badau Purnima Festival. The area is held in sacred regard and trekkers are encouraged not to take leather items beyond the lodge if possible. The trail contours the steep hillsides and takes us even closer to the impressively sheer cliff face of Annapurna's Fang Face. In the late afternoon, we will descend back to our eco lodge at Kopra. Our staff will accompany you on this hike and you may turn around after a few hours if you choose to, or simply enjoy a rest day in the comfort of our eco lodge.

Meals: B,L,D

We descend steeply from our lodge towards a stream and pass through the village of Chistibung. Today's route takes us through heavily forested terrain. Overnight in our exclusive eco-comfort camp in Swantha.

Meals: B,L,D

A short walk brings us to Chitre where we join the old Tibet-Nepal trade route. The walk this morning offers excellent views of the Dhaulagiri range as the trail zigzags until we reach our lunch stop at Ghorepani. This is a large village which is on the main tourist trail. You may wish to wander through the bazaar for a short period following lunch, as there are many Tibetan wares on display, and also a bakery or two. Most trekkers to Ghorepani take a a pre dawn 45 minute climb to the summit of Poon Hill (3200m), which is a highlight of trekking in the Annapurnas. We will make the climb in the afternoon, when there are no crowds. From Poon Hill we leave the main trail and traverse on old yak herder trails to Upper Phulbari. The location affords spectacular views of the Dhauligiri Massif, with the luxury of no pre-dawn start, unless of course you chose to photograph the stunning views at sunrise. Overnight eco lodge.

Meals: B,L,D

The views in the early morning are tremendous, with forested foot hills as a fore ground and some of the world's greatest mountain ranges surrounding us. If you are up early enough, the glow of the rising sun catches Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and Annapurna. Our trail takes us through beautiful forests of rhododendrons, fir, pine, cedar and bamboo, there are many small trails through the forest, and we are unlikely to see any other westerners in this section of the trek. Eventually we emerge to open grassland ridges that offer a particularly pleasant trekking experience, before descending to a pretty lunchspot in a narrow valley skirted by multicoloured rhododendron bushes. From here there are three trails, we take the south trail which leads us to our exclusive eco-comfort camp at Les Par (Swarga).

Meals: B,L,D

Trekking along the ridge of Bharmakot Dhanda we gain excellent views of Annapurna South, Machapuchare, Hiunchuli and the Manaslu ranges. Ghibrang is a delightful village, largely untouched by western influence, and our exclusive eco-comfort camp offers yet more stunning views in a peaceful terraced setting amidst this pretty village.

Meals: B,L,D

Have your trekking poles at the ready today as our descent is approx. 1000m. We pass through interesting villages situated on steep rocky hills and terraces. The villages we pass are mixed communities of predominantly Gurung, Brahmin & Chettri. The final descent into Nayapul is 20 minutes on stone stairs. Here we will have a quick lunch break and then board the bus for Pokhara. Once settled in we highly recommend you take a stroll down to the lake at Pokhara, there are many stores selling Tibetan wares which are less expensive than Kathmandu. The main street running along the lake is vibrant and an interesting place to sit and watch the world go by. Overnight: hotel

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we transfer to the airport for the spectacular 40 minute flight back to Kathmandu. Rest of the day is at leisure.

Meals: B

After breakfast arrangements cease unless further arrangements have been made. Those people travelling by aircraft to further destinations will be transferred to the airport.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

View dates to Book

What’s included?

Included

  • 15 breakfasts, 12 lunches and 12 dinners including all meals on trek valued at US$600
  • airport transfers if arriving on day 1 and 16 or if you booked pre/post tour accommodation at the Radisson through World Expeditions
  • flight Pokhara/Kathmandu/Pokhara
  • expert bilingual guide
  • group medical kit
  • good quality accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • accommodation on trek in a combination of comfortable eco lodges, and our private eco-comfort camps with off the ground camp beds, mattresses and pillows
  • the use of a World Expeditions trek pack which includes a quality sleeping bag, down or fibre fill jacket and insulated mat (valued at over US$500)
  • souvenir World Expeditions kit bag
  • private transportation
  • all park entrance fees and trekking permits
  • porters to carry all personal and group equipment
  • porter's insurance

Not included

  • Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu
  • Bottled water, aerated & alcoholic drinks
  • Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, etc.
  • Tips
  • International flights
  • Airport and departure taxes
  • Visa
  • Travel Insurance

Adventure Highlighted Video - Annapurna Dhauligiri trek to Khopra Ridge

7 Reasons Why We Include Meals On Our Nepal Treks | World Expeditions

Reviews (114)



Responsible travel

Extra trip info

Guaranteeing A Great Nepal Trip

Pioneering World Firsts

Quality equipment

Quality accommodations

Innovative itineraries

Custom built, reliable transport

Our all inclusive approach

Multi Award Winning Adventures

Thoughtful Travel

Adventure Experts Since 1975