Annapurna Khayer Lake Trek
Trip Facts
Duration
14
Trip Grade
Moderate
Country
Nepal
Maximum Altitude
4,600 meters (15,091 feet)
Group Size
2
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Activities
Trekking and Tours
Best Time
Sep, Oct, Nov Dec and March, April, May
Overview
Khayer Lake is a fantastic trek for getting up close to the Annapurna peaks and being rewarded with some of the most stunning mountain vistas in the entire Himalaya Mountains. You will walk remote forest trails that few trekkers even know about. The trek takes you high into the rampart ridges that lead all the way up Annapurna South (8,091m) itself.
From many vantage points along this trek you get the feeling you can almost reach out and touch Annapurna – the mountains are so close you almost can.
The trek takes you to some high mountain ridges at 3,800m and then 4,800m altitude where the views to the many peaks of the Annapurna Massif and the mighty Mount Dhaulagiri (8,167m) will leave you spell-bound.
The final stage of the trek takes you to Ghorepani and the Poon Hill Lookout for a final sunrise view of the countless icy peaks of the Annapurna Base Camp. Polish up your camera and bring your biggest memory card for this trek. This is truly one of the best off-the-beaten-path treks in Nepal.
Highlights
Visit the sacred Khayer Lake (4,660m) beneath Annapurna South.
Witness sunrise from Poon Hill and Mulde Viewpoint.
Enjoy spectacular panoramas from Khopra Danda.
Explore authentic Gurung and Magar villages.
Walk through beautiful rhododendron forests and alpine meadows.
Stay in peaceful community lodges away from crowded trekking routes.
Experience breathtaking views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, Nilgiri, and Tukuche Peak.
Perfect for trekkers seeking a quieter alternative to the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Kathmandu,
Airport Pickup from our representive and warm welcome from our team .after few hour rest our team will visit u and will go through all your trek itinerary and arrangements with you an ensure every detail is in place.
Day 2: Start an interesting tour around Kathmandu.
After breakfast, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu with an English-speaking guide (other languages available on request). Discover Nepal;s rich culture, heritage, and spiritual traditions as you visit four UNESCO World Heritage Sites : Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple),Pashupatinath Temple,Boudhanath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square This tour offers a perfect introduction to Kathmandu’s unique blend of history, culture, and spirituality.
Day 3: Drive to Pokhara.
The flight is an optional extra for this itinerary. Pokhara is located about 200km west of Katmandu on the shores of the beautiful Lake Fewa. Pokhara is a mixture of restful and busy. It has the atmosphere of a relaxed resort town where visitors take it easy seeing the sights and resting before their Annapuna or Mustang trek and once again upon their retun. But is also a busy place with all these visitors arriving, leaving and exploring the lake and nearby sights of Pokhara. The option to drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara provides an opportunity to experience more of the real Nepal beyond the national parks and trekking trails. The scenery and people you will meet on the drive is also worth the experience.
Day 4: Pokhara to Ghandruk (1,940 meters)
Day 5: Ghandruk to Tadapani (2,630 meters)
Day 6: Tadapani to Dobato (3,420 meters)
After breakfast in Tadapani, begin your trek to Dobato, following scenic trails through dense rhododendron and oak forests rich in birdlife and natural beauty. The route features a mix of gradual ascents and descents, with opportunities to rest at local teahouses along the way.As you gain elevation, the forest gradually opens up to reveal breathtaking views of the Annapuna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Arrive in the peaceful settlement of Dobato, a spectacular viewpoint known for its panoramic Himalayan scenery and unforgettable sunset views.
Day 7: Dobato to Upper Chistibung
After breakfast in Dobato, descend through enchanting rhododendron and oak forests, surrounded by moss-covered trees and the serene beauty of the Annapuna region. The trail features a mix of gentle ascents and descents, offering peaceful walks through unspoiled Himalayan landscapes.
Enjoy scenic rest stops along the way before arriving at Upper Chistibung, a quiet and remote settlement nestled amidst rolling hills and lush forests. The area offers beautiful views of the surrounding valleys and provides a tranquil retreat away from the busier trekking routes.
Day 8: Upper Chistibung to Khopra Danda (3,660 meters)
After breakfast in Upper Chistibung, continue your ascent towards Khopra Danda, trekking through beautiful rhododendron and oak forests rich in wildlife and Himalayan flora. As the trail climbs higher, enjoy increasingly spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Arrive at Khopra Danda, one of the most scenic viewpoints in the Annapuna region. Perched on a high ridge, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapuna and Dhaulagiri ranges, creating an unforgettable Himalayan experience. Weather permitting, enjoy a magnificent sunset over the snow-capped peaks.
Day 9: Rest Day at Khopra Danda
Enjoy a relaxing day at Khopra Danda, surrounded by some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the Annapuna region. After breakfast, take a leisurely walk around the ridge, soak in the panoramic views, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this remote Himalayan setting.
Spend the day at your own pace relax, interact with fellow trekkers, explore the surrounding area, or capture stunning photographs of the Annapuna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Nature enthusiasts can also enjoy short guided walks to lean about the region’s unique flora and fauna.
Day 10: Khopra Danda to Swanta (2,200 meters)
After breakfast, begin your descent from Khopra Danda, enjoying some of the finest mountain views in the Annapuna region. The trail winds through beautiful rhododendron and oak forests, crossing peaceful hillsides and traditional settlements as you make your way toward lower elevations.
Arrive at the picturesque Gurung village of Swanta, renowned for its traditional architecture, warm hospitality, and authentic rural lifestyle. Spend time exploring the village and experiencing the unique culture of the local community.
Day 11: Swanta to Ghorepani (2,860 meters)
After breakfast in Swanta, continue your trek towards Ghorepani, following scenic trails through terraced fields, rhododendron forests, and traditional mountain villages. Along the way, enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding hills and occasional glimpses of the Annapuna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
The trail offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty and local culture, passing through peaceful forests, streams, and rural settlements. Upon reaching Ghorepani, one of the most popular trekking villages in the Annapuna region, enjoy spectacular mountain views and the vibrant atmosphere of this renowned trekking hub.
Day 12: User Ghorepani to Nayapul, Drive to Pokhara
Rise early for an optional hike to Poon Hill to witness a spectacular sunrise over the Annapuna and Dhaulagiri ranges. After retuning to Ghorepani for breakfast, begin your final descent through rhododendron forests, terraced farmlands, and traditional mountain villages, enjoying the last views of the Himalayas and local village life.
Arrive at Nayapul, marking the end of your trek, and transfer by private vehicle to Pokhara (approximately 1.5–2 hours). Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy a well-deserved rest. The remainder of the day is free to relax, explore the lakeside area, or celebrate the successful completion of your Annapuna Khayer Lake Trek.
Day 13: Return to Kathmandu by tourist bus
After breakfast in the moning you say goodbye to Pokhara and head back to bus park Kathmandu by road. You may also choose to fly back to Kathmandu as an optional extra to your itinerary. The jouney from Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus takes approximately 6 to 8 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.
You will be delivered back to your Kathmandu hotel at the end of today's travels.
Day 14: Adventure in Nepal comes to an end
Our adventure in Nepal comes to an end today! A Mountain Hiking representative will escort us to the airport approximately 3 hours before our scheduled flight. On our way home, we have plenty of time to plan our next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.
Includes/Excludes
What's Included?
- Airport pick-up and drop-off with private transportation
- Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu & Pokhara (3 star, breakfast included)
- Guided sightseeing in Kathmandu with entrance fees
- Porter service (1 porter for every 2 trekkers, maximum 25 kg)
- Experienced English-speaking government-licensed Sherpa climbing guide for the entire trek
- Drinking water purification tablets
- Seasonal fresh fruits during the trek
- Welcome dinner with a traditional Nepali cultural show in Kathmandu
- All meals during the trek Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner with Tea or coffee
- 1-hour complimentary massage after the trek in Kathmandu
- kathamandu - Pokhara - kathamandu By luxury tourist bus
- sleeping bag/Down Jackt / after the trek return to us
What's Excluded?
- International airfare and Nepal visa fee
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara
- Personal expenses (drinks, hot shower, charging, etc.)
- Travel insurance and emergency evacuation cost
- Extra costs due to delays, weather, or services not mentioned
- Additional costs caused by changes in itinerary (weather, flight delays, health issues, etc.)
Packing List
Trekking Equipment
Recommended equipment list: Trekkers need to provide their own personal clothing and equipment. Some items of equipment are available for hire from us as like Down Jacket
Footwear : Well broken-in walking shoes - these must be suitable for snow, thick socks, light socks, camp shoes.
Clothing : Down or fiber filled waterproof jacket and trousers, sweater or fleece jacket, underwear, warm and cotton trousers or jeans, shirts and T-shirts, shorts, long underwear, wool hat, sun hat, gloves, bathing suit, track suit.
Other equipment: Sleeping bag (5 seasons), lock, day pack, water bottle, sun cream, sunglasses, flashlight with spare bulbs and batteries, lip salve, gaiters.
Other items: Insect repellent, toilet articles, diary, toilet roll, laundry soap, wet ones, pocket knife, towel, sewing kit, plasters, binoculars, camera, film, cards and personal medical kit.
Essential Information
Nepal Visa Information
All foreigners need visas, except people from India.
Visa Types: Nepal offers various types of visas, including tourist visas, business visas, student visas, and more.
Tourist Visa: Tourist visas are typically the most common type for travelers visiting Nepal for leisure or sightseeing purposes.
Visa on Arrival: Many nationalities can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and other entry points. You'll need to fill out a visa application form and provide a passport-sized photo along with the visa fee in USD or equivalent.
Online Visa Application: Some nationalities are eligible to apply for a tourist visa online through the Nepal Immigration website. https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/This allows you to complete the visa application in advance and obtain a visa approval letter, which you present upon arrival to receive your visa.
Print the Approval Letter: Print out the visa approval letter, as you'll need to present it upon arrival in Nepal along with your passport. Make sure to carry a copy of the approval letter with you during your travel.
Obtain Visa Stamp Upon Arrival: Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or other entry points in Nepal, present your passport, printed visa approval letter, and any other required documents to the immigration officer. They will stamp your passport with the tourist visa, allowing you to enter Nepal.
Duration and Extension: Tourist visas are typically issued for 15, 30, or 90 days. Extensions are possible for up to 150 days per visa year (January-December) at the Immigration Office in Kathmandu and certain other locations.
Visa Fees: The visa fee varies depending on the duration of your stay. There may be additional fees for visa extensions.
15 Days – USD 30
30 Days – USD 50
90 Days – USD 125
Passport Validity: Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the intended date of departure from Nepal.
Travel Insurance: Purchase travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation in case of emergencies. Make sure to carry a copy of your insurance policy and emergency contact information.
Be Flexible: Weather conditions in the Himalayas can be unpredictable. Be prepared for flight delays or cancellations due to poor weather conditions in Lukla, which can affect your trekking schedule. Stay flexible and patient.
Permits:
TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card: This card is mandatory for all trekkers in Nepal to ensure their safety.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): Required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area.
Packing List:
Clothing: Layered clothing for varying temperatures, waterproof jacket, trekking pants, thermal wear, gloves, and a warm hat.
Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof trekking boots and comfortable trekking socks.
Gear: Trekking poles, a good-quality backpack, a daypack, a sleeping bag (if not provided by tea houses), and a headlamp with extra batteries.
Accessories: Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, a first aid kit, water purification tablets, and a reusable water bottle.
Personal Items: Toiletries, lightweight towel, and snacks.
Accommodation:
Tea Houses: The most common type of accommodation on the trek. They provide basic rooms, shared bathrooms, and meals.
Booking: Generally, you do not need to book tea houses in advance, but during peak seasons (spring and autumn), it may be wise to book a day or two ahead, especially at higher altitudes like ABC.
Food and Water:
Meals: Available at tea houses along the trail. Typical meals include dal bhat (rice and lentil soup), noodles, pasta, and various potato dishes.
Water: Bottled water is available, but using water purification tablets or a filter to purify tap or stream water is more environmentally friendly and cost-effective.
Altitude Sickness:
Awareness: Symptoms include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
Prevention: Ascend slowly, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and take rest days if needed. Diamox can be used as a preventive measure (consult a doctor before use).
Health and Safety:
Travel Insurance: Make sure your insurance covers high-altitude trekking and possible evacuation.
Emergency Contacts: Have the contact information for local rescue services and your country's embassy in Nepal.
Guide/Porter: Hiring a guide and/or porter can enhance safety and comfort. They provide valuable local knowledge and carry your gear, allowing you to enjoy the trek more fully.
Best Time to Trek:
Spring (March to May): Blooming rhododendrons and moderate temperatures.
Autumn (September to November): Clear skies, stable weather, and excellent visibility.
Winter (December to February): Fewer crowds but colder temperatures and possible snowfall.
Monsoon (June to August): Heavy rainfall, slippery trails, and potential landslides, but lush greenery and fewer trekkers.
Cultural Etiquette:
Respect Local Customs: Greet locals with "Namaste," dress modestly, and ask for permission before taking photographs.
Environmental Responsibility: Follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Dispose of waste properly, use biodegradable toiletries, and avoid single-use plastics.
Final Tips:
Physical Preparation: Engage in regular cardio exercises, strength training, and hiking to build stamina and endurance before the trek.
Mental Preparation: Be ready for long days of walking and changing weather conditions.
Money: Carry enough cash in Nepalese rupees for the trek, as ATMs are not available along the route.
Travle insurance
Travel Insurance is mandatory for all customers who looking to travel in Nepal with the Mountain Hiking & Trekking .The Travel Insurance must cover both the evacuation and medical cost
There are many insurance companies that offer travel insurance services over the internet. You can choose from a wide variety of insurance companies as per your convenience. Especially when it comes to trekking in Nepal, there is always a narrow chance of minor health issues, injuries and most importantly – altitude sickness.
It is essential that you prefer an insurance rule that covers the cost of the helicopter rescue from the mountains in case of main accidents and delicate mountain sickness (AMS). through such great cases of an emergency evacuation, a helicopter service is the only way out of the mountains. This includes a rescue team for both – ground evacuation and rescue. Which is why we need your travel insurances to cover the cost of helicopter services and evacuation from the Himalayas
It is forever recovered to be safe than apologetic.
Before you plan your trip with Mountain Hiking & Trekking do make sure that your travel insurance covers all the costs mentioned above from a reliable company.
Suggested Travel Insurance Companies:
https://www.mondial-assistance.ca
https://www.travelassistnetwork.com/
https://www.travelex-insurance.com/
https://www.hccmis.com/atlas-travel-insurance
We encourage you to read the terms and conditions carefully before booking any trips with us, by submitting the booking form you are agreeing to be bound by the conditions of the terms and please go through the following Terms and Conditions that govern the relationship between you (client) and Mountain Hiking & Trekking P. Ltd) (hereinafter referred as "The Company"), Registered Company Number 74068/066/067, both parties agree to these Terms and Conditions to resolve any legal or other disputes that may arise during the trip.
Trip Booking:
A 'trip' refers to any product itinerary or activities that are listed in our official website www.himalayaguide.com that you buy from us including Trekking, Tours, Expeditions, and/or other adventure and tour programs.
A booking is accepted and becomes definite only from the date when the Company sends a confirmation email then the contract between the Company and the Client comes into existence.
Before your booking is confirmed and a contract comes into force, the Company reserves the right to increase or decrease prices.
Please note that the company would not be liable to any warranty, collateral agreement, prior agreement, description of services, or conditions, other than as expressed herein.
Deposit Requirement For Booking Trip:
I) Nepal Trips: For Nepal Trips, you will have to make a deposit of 25% of trip cost at the time of booking. The Deposit amount is nonrefundable. the remaining 75% amount is payable upon your arrival in Kathmandu and before the trip departure from Kathmandu.
The deposit should be sent to the Company, The Tailor Made trips may require a higher deposit or full payment at the time of booking so, if deposit is different from that outlined in this clause, you will be advised by the company at the time of booking.
II) Tibet/ Bhutan Trips: For the Booking of Tibet and Bhutan Trips, you will make 35% of the trip cost at the time of Booking. The Deposit amount is nonrefundable. and the remaining 60% is payable upon arrival in Kathmandu and before the trip departure.
Method of Payment
Booking deposit can be made by bank transfer, by Credit Card (Visa or Mastercard) and western union:
Booking paying by any credit card is Free of charge
http://www.himalayaguide.com/payment.html
if you want to pay by credit card we are 100% online secure payment systems
Payment via Wire/Bank Transfer: Our Bank Details for wire Transfer:
- Name of the Account Holder: - Mountain Hiking & Trekking P. LTD
- Account Number: - 00207405260011
- Account Type: - Current
- Paying Bank- Himalayan Bank LTD.
- Bank Address:- Thamel, Kathamandu, Nepal
- Post Box No: - 14444
- Swift Code: - HIMANPKA
Note: Bank service charge should be paid by the clients themselves at the time of deposit.
Please note that we are not liable of any delay or loss during the transfer process, If in case due to use of mediator bank or any other reasons if the money received by us is less than the amount sent, you are requested upon arrival to pay accordingly so that the total is equivalent to the product cost.
E-mail us the bank reference number or remittance slipserence number/remittance slips and sender details, and it will be easy for us to check. after you initiate the transfer, sometimes bank forwards the money with different name; if we have ref
Final Payment:
(a) Nepal Trips: Final payment on trekking, tours, climbing, expedition or any kind of trips in Nepal can be made upon arrival in Nepal and before the trip departure; final payment can be made by bank transfer, cash or by Credit Card (Visa or Master Card) and there is 0% surcharge when the payment is made by cards (this applies to final balances and trip extension only.
b) Tibet and Bhutan Trips: Final payment of Tibet and Bhutan Trips should be made before the 30 days prior of the tour date and final payment can be made by bank transfer, or by Credit Card (Visa or Master Card) and there is 0% surcharge when the payment is made by cards (this applies to deposits, final balances and trip extension only
Trip Cancellation By The Client
Any cancellation by a Client must be made in writing and acknowledged by the Company, the date on which the request to cancel is received by the Company, will determine the cancellation charge
Cancellation of Nepal,Bhutan and Tibet Trips deposit amount is ( Non- Refundable) But you can use That deposit anytime when you come to nepal.
a) The Client is strongly advised to take out cancellation insurance at the time of making the booking.
b) No refunds will be made if you voluntarily leave a trip for any reason after the trip has start on,No refunds will be made for any accommodation, transport, sightseeing, meals or services not utilized.
c) If you want to change the date of the tour, it is possible to change within our tour date (subject to availability) which may occur some additional cost for you.
d) We will take last minute booking till 5 day prior of tour date for Nepal trips and till 20 days prior for Bhutan and Tibet trips and you need to make full payment to book the tour in these cases.
Cancellation Of A Tour By The Company:
Mountain Hiking & Trekking P. Ltd reserves the right to cancel any trip, including a guaranteed trip, prior to departure due to reasons beyond our control (due to natural disasters, flight cancellation, , industrial action, Mountain sickness, weather conditions and Early back to kathamandu from Trek or any Tour in nepal,bhutan and Tibet trip. In such a case, Mountain Hiking & Trekking P. Ltd will not refund any money
Passport And Visas:
All clients must have a valid passport with at least 6 months validity from return date, Nepalese visas can be obtained from the Nepalese Embassies or Consulate in your country or arrival in Kathmandu Airport. Please visit our Nepal Visa for the detail info.
Complaints:
If you have complaints about the trip, you can tell to operator/leader/guide at the earliest opportunity then he will take the appropriate action.
Acceptance Of Risk:
We are committed to provide the best services by performing our duties honestly & seriously to make your journey very smooth & successful. However, Mountain Hiking & Trekking P. Ltd and its related organization shall not be responsible for any changes in the itinerary due to unavoidable circumstance beyond our control such as govt. restriction, Land slide, road blockage, flood, snow political unrest, cancellation of flight, delay, sickness or accident and The nature of some of our trips is adventurous and risky as well, therefore may involve a personal risk. We would like to inform you that you have to take all risk on yourself such as damages or injuries or death resulting from these inherent risks.
Route Map
