Khopra Danda and Annapurna Base Camp Trek – 13 Days

Best Time to Visit

The best time to trek to Khopra Danda and Annapurna Base Camp is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These periods offer the most stable weather, clear mountain views, and comfortable trekking conditions.

1. Spring (March to May):
   Spring is one of the best times to trek to Khopra Danda and Annapurna Base Camp. During this season, the weather is generally stable with mild temperatures, making it ideal for trekking. The trails are alive with blooming rhododendrons and lush greenery, while the skies remain mostly clear, offering spectacular views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre. This season also provides longer daylight hours, giving trekkers ample time to explore and enjoy the scenery.
2. Autumn (September to November):
   Autumn is another perfect season for this trek, known for its crystal-clear skies and stunning mountain vistas. The weather is dry and pleasant, with excellent visibility of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. After the monsoon, the air is fresh, and the landscapes are vibrant, creating ideal conditions for photography and hiking. This is also the peak trekking season in Nepal, offering a lively atmosphere on the trails while still being peaceful along the quieter Khopra Danda route.
3. Winter (December to February):
   Winter trekking is possible but only recommended for experienced trekkers prepared for cold conditions. The trails are quieter, and the mountain views are often very clear, but snowfall can make certain parts of the route challenging. While the lower sections are still accessible, higher elevations like Khopra Ridge and ABC may be snow-covered and icy, requiring proper gear and preparation.
4. Monsoon (June to August):
   The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, making the trails muddy, slippery, and prone to landslides. Leeches are common in the lower forested areas, and cloud cover often obscures mountain views. Due to these conditions, trekking during monsoon is generally not recommended. However, for those who don’t mind the rain and want to experience lush green landscapes with fewer trekkers around, it can be a unique adventure with proper precautions.

For the best experience, plan your Khopra Danda and Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Female Guide Holiday Pvt. Ltd. during spring or autumn when nature and mountain views are at their most breathtaking.

Accommodation

During the Khopra Danda and Annapurna Base Camp Trek, accommodation is provided in comfortable, locally-run teahouses along the trail. These teahouses offer basic but clean rooms, usually with twin beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms. In lower altitudes like Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Chhomrong, you can expect better facilities including hot showers and sometimes even attached bathrooms. Higher up, particularly at Khopra Danda and Annapurna Base Camp, amenities may be more limited due to the remoteness, but the breathtaking mountain views from your window more than make up for it. All accommodation is carefully selected by Female Guide Holiday Pvt. Ltd. to ensure safety, hygiene, and comfort throughout your journey.

Meals and Drinking Water

Throughout the trek, you will be provided with three nutritious meals per day – breakfast, lunch, and dinner – at local teahouses. Meals typically include Nepali staples like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), noodles, soups, fried rice, pasta, vegetables, and occasionally momos (dumplings). Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available. It’s important to maintain energy levels at high altitude, so you’ll be encouraged to eat hearty, fresh meals. For drinking water, we recommend carrying a refillable bottle and using purification tablets or filters, as bottled water is available but not environmentally friendly. Most teahouses also offer boiled water for a small fee. Female Guide Holiday Pvt. Ltd. promotes sustainable trekking and encourages eco-friendly water practices.

Guides and Porter

The trek is led by experienced, licensed female trekking guides provided by Female Guide Holiday Pvt. Ltd., a women-led company committed to empowering local women in the tourism industry. Each guide is trained in high-altitude safety, first aid, and Himalayan terrain navigation, ensuring your journey is not only enjoyable but also safe. For every two trekkers, one porter is assigned to help carry your main luggage (up to 15 kg per person), allowing you to trek with just a light daypack. Our porters are fairly compensated and properly equipped for the trail. Having knowledgeable local guides adds depth to the experience, as they share stories about the culture, geography, and traditions of the Annapurna region.

WiFi and Electricity
Access to WiFi and electricity is available on most parts of the Khopra Danda and Annapurna Base Camp Trek, especially in lower-altitude villages such as Ghorepani, Tadapani, and Chhomrong. Teahouses generally provide electricity for charging devices at a small cost, though power can be limited in more remote areas like Khopra Ridge and ABC. Solar panels are commonly used in higher altitudes, so charging might be slower or unavailable during cloudy weather. WiFi is offered in some teahouses for a fee, but the connection can be slow or unreliable due to the remote location. It’s a good idea to carry a power bank and enjoy the digital detox while staying connected enough for essential communication.

Physical Fitness Requirement

The Khopra Danda and Annapurna Base Camp Trek is considered moderately challenging, suitable for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness and prior hiking experience. You will be trekking 5–7 hours per day on varied terrain, including steep ascents, descents, stone steps, and some high-altitude sections. While you don’t need to be an athlete, regular cardio exercises like walking, hiking, cycling, or swimming are helpful in preparing for the trek. Altitude acclimatization is built into the itinerary to reduce the risk of altitude sickness. With proper preparation, determination, and the support of the experienced team at Female Guide Holiday Pvt. Ltd., this trek is achievable and rewarding for most active travelers.

Difficulty Level

The difficulty level of the Khopra Danda and Annapurna Base Camp Trek is moderate to slightly strenuous. It involves trekking up to an altitude of 4,130 meters at Annapurna Base Camp, and includes long walking days with significant elevation gain and descent. The trails range from well-maintained stone paths to rougher, forested or ridge-line routes, especially on the Khopra Ridge section. Weather conditions can add to the challenge, particularly during early spring or late autumn. However, this trek is suitable for both beginners and seasoned trekkers, provided they are physically fit and mentally prepared. The support of skilled guides and porters makes the journey smoother and more enjoyable.

Weather and Environment

The weather along the Khopra Danda and Annapurna Base Camp route varies depending on the season. Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer the most stable and clear conditions, with warm days and cool nights, perfect for trekking. During winter (December–February), temperatures can drop significantly, especially at higher altitudes, and snow may cover parts of the trail. The monsoon season (June–August) brings heavy rainfall, making trails slippery and increasing the risk of landslides. Regardless of the season, the Annapurna region is rich in biodiversity and natural beauty, featuring rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and towering peaks. Female Guide Holiday Pvt. Ltd. ensures environmentally responsible trekking practices to protect this pristine environment and support local communities.

TIMS and Permits

To complete the Khopra Danda and Annapurna Base Camp Trek, you must obtain the required trekking permits. These include the TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). These permits are mandatory for all trekkers and are used to ensure your safety and track trekking activity in the region. Female Guide Holiday Pvt. Ltd., as a government-authorized operator, will handle all necessary paperwork and obtain your permits on your behalf, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process before your trek begins.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory for all participants joining the Khopra Danda and Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Your policy must cover high-altitude trekking (up to 4,130 meters), medical emergencies, evacuation by helicopter, trip cancellations, and personal liability. Trekking in the Himalayas involves unpredictable weather and remote locations, making comprehensive insurance essential for your safety. Female Guide Holiday Pvt. Ltd. requires a copy of your valid insurance policy before the trek starts, so please secure this before traveling to Nepal.

Passport and Visa

All foreign nationals must have a valid passport (with at least 6 months validity) and a Nepal tourist visa to enter the country. Visas can be obtained on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or in advance from a Nepalese embassy or consulate. Tourist visas are available for 15, 30, or 90 days, and you can extend your stay if needed. To book your trek with Female Guide Holiday Pvt. Ltd., we also request a copy of your passport to process trekking permits and travel arrangements in advance.

Safety and Security

Your safety is the top priority during the Khopra Danda and Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Female Guide Holiday Pvt. Ltd. follows strict safety protocols, including the use of licensed and experienced female trekking guides, proper altitude acclimatization, and 24/7 communication support. Guides are trained in first aid and altitude sickness management. Emergency evacuation by helicopter is available if required, with coordination from our central office. Trekking in a group, guided by professionals, greatly enhances security in remote areas. We also encourage you to follow local customs, stay with your group, and avoid wandering off the trail.

Trek Booking

Female Guide Holiday Pvt. Ltd. is a government-registered and fully licensed trek and tour operator, affiliated with the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) and the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA). You can book your trek with confidence knowing you’re in the hands of professionals. To secure your spot, a 10% deposit of the total cost is required. Please send your passport copy, passport-sized photos, travel insurance details, and international flight information within a week of booking. Payments can be made through bank transfer, Western Union, or our website, with the remaining balance payable upon arrival in Nepal.

Currency Exchange

The official currency in Nepal is the Nepali Rupee (NPR), with a typical exchange rate of approximately 1 USD = 137 NPR (subject to market changes). You can exchange major foreign currencies at banks or licensed money exchange counters, particularly in areas like Thamel, Kathmandu. While credit cards are accepted in some places, we recommend exchanging some cash in advance to cover trekking expenses and avoid high banking fees. ATMs are widely available in Kathmandu and Pokhara and allow withdrawals using international debit or credit cards, with a per-transaction limit of around NPR 35,000.

Extra Personal Expenses

Although most of your meals and accommodations during the trek are included in the package, you will need to budget for personal expenses. These include meals in Kathmandu, snacks, hot showers, WiFi, charging devices, souvenirs, and gratuities for guides and porters. Tipping is customary in Nepal and a way to show appreciation for the hard work of your trekking team. We recommend bringing extra cash (preferably in small denominations) to cover these incidental costs, as ATMs may not be available along the trekking route.

Last-Minute Booking

If you’re planning a spontaneous Himalayan adventure, Female Guide Holiday Pvt. Ltd. offers last-minute trek bookings. To take advantage of this service, full payment must be made at least 24 hours before the trek’s departure. While we do our best to accommodate late requests, availability of accommodation and guides may vary depending on the season. We recommend contacting us as early as possible for real-time confirmation. For bookings or inquiries, please call us at +977-9843197098 or email info@femaleguidekathmandu.com for fast and friendly assistance.

Group & Private Treks

At Female Guide Holiday Pvt. Ltd., we offer both group and private trekking options to suit your travel style and preferences. Whether you’re a solo traveler looking to join others or want a more personalized journey with friends or family, we accommodate all group sizes. Discounts are available for larger groups, and every group is accompanied by a professional female guide. We assign one porter for every two trekkers, and for groups of 12 or more, an additional assistant guide will be provided to ensure a smooth and well-managed trekking experience.

Responsible Travel

We are a sustainability-focused trekking company that values the natural and cultural heritage of the Himalayas. Female Guide Holiday follows strict “leave no trace” principles and actively partners with the Kathmandu Environmental Education Project (KEEP) to promote eco-friendly travel practices. Our goal is to ensure that your trek supports not only environmental conservation but also benefits local communities. We encourage all trekkers to minimize plastic use, respect local customs, and support ethical tourism.

Important Note on Safety

Your safety is our highest priority at Female Guide Holiday Pvt. Ltd. In the event of unexpected conditions such as adverse weather, natural disasters, or health concerns within the group, we reserve the right to adjust or cancel the trek itinerary. These decisions are made to protect your wellbeing, and we ask for your cooperation with your guide, who is trained to handle such situations professionally. Our team will always aim to keep the itinerary as close to the original plan as possible while ensuring your security.

High Altitude Sickness & Preparation

Trekking to higher elevations such as Khopra Danda and Annapurna Base Camp carries the risk of altitude sickness. Common symptoms include dizziness, headaches, fatigue, and shortness of breath. To minimize these risks, our itinerary includes gradual ascents and proper acclimatization. Staying hydrated (3–4 liters of water daily), eating energy-rich foods, and resting when needed are essential. Before starting the trek, consult with your doctor about preventive medication like Diamox (acetazolamide). Preparing with a regular fitness routine before your trip will greatly enhance your stamina and comfort at altitude.

A Typical Day on the Trek

Each day on the Khopra Danda and Annapurna Base Camp Trek brings a blend of scenic beauty, cultural encounters, and rewarding physical activity. You’ll pass through tranquil villages, forested trails, and panoramic viewpoints while being guided by knowledgeable female guides who offer insight into the local traditions and landscapes.

Morning Routine

Your day begins early with tea or coffee, followed by a nourishing breakfast prepared by the lodge. Trekking usually starts around 7:00 to 8:00 am, covering a range of terrain such as rhododendron forests, stone staircases, and ridge paths with stunning views of Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre.

Trekking Hours

Mornings typically involve 3–4 hours of trekking before stopping for a scenic lunch break. You’ll relax in a peaceful setting surrounded by Himalayan beauty—be it by a river, in a mountain village, or on a high ridge. After lunch, you’ll continue for another 2–3 hours to reach your overnight lodge, usually by late afternoon.

Evening and Night Activities

Once at your teahouse, you’ll have time to freshen up, enjoy snacks, and soak in the mountain atmosphere. Dinner is served around 6:30 pm, often featuring hearty Nepali dishes like dal bhat, noodles, and seasonal vegetables. Your guide will then brief you on the next day’s plan. Evenings may include games, reading, journaling, or learning Nepali phrases. Many teahouses also offer documentaries about trekking or mountaineering.

Comfort and Connectivity

Most teahouses provide electricity for charging devices (small fees may apply), and boiled water or purified options for safe drinking. While WiFi is available in some lower-altitude lodges, it may be limited or unavailable as you ascend. For better connectivity, you can purchase a local SIM card in Kathmandu, though network coverage in high altitudes can be inconsistent.

Communication

In lower regions, you’ll have occasional access to WiFi or mobile networks. However, expect limited internet and phone service at higher elevations. It’s best to inform family and friends in advance that communication may be sparse during parts of the trek.

Tipping

While not mandatory, tipping is customary in Nepal and a heartfelt way to show appreciation for your guides and porters. The amount is entirely up to you and typically reflects the length and quality of the service provided. Female Guide Holiday encourages fair tipping practices and ensures our team is compensated fairly and respectfully.

Feedback and Certificates

At the end of your trek, you’ll receive a certificate of completion, celebrating your achievement. We invite you to share your experience with us—your feedback helps us improve and continue empowering women in Nepal’s tourism industry. A farewell dinner will also be arranged in Kathmandu, offering a final chance to reflect on the journey and connect with fellow trekkers.

Important Information

Please note that weather and trail conditions can affect the itinerary. Female Guide Holiday advises all clients to keep two extra buffer days at the end of their trek in case of unexpected delays. This helps ensure you do not miss international flights or connecting plans.

Trip Extensions

If you wish to explore more of Nepal, we offer various trip extension options. Discover the cultural heritage of Kathmandu Valley, go on a jungle safari in Chitwan National Park, or enjoy paragliding and boating in Pokhara. You can also opt for relaxing spa treatments or a short yoga retreat to recover after your trek.

Departure

After your trek concludes in Pokhara, we will arrange your private transfer back to Kathmandu and provide an airport drop-off on your departure day. We strive to ensure that your journey ends as comfortably as it began.

Trek Conclusion

Your trek ends with a scenic descent to Tatopani, followed by a local transfer through Beni Bazaar and on to Pokhara. You’ll return to Kathmandu for a celebratory farewell dinner hosted by Female Guide Holiday Pvt. Ltd., marking the completion of an unforgettable trekking experience in the Annapurna region.

Notes

We offer both fixed departure dates and customizable itineraries for the 13-day Khopra Danda and Annapurna Base Camp Trek. If our scheduled dates don’t fit your travel plans, simply let us know—Female Guide Holiday Pvt. Ltd. will do its best to tailor a trek just for you. While every effort is made to follow the itinerary, we may need to make adjustments due to weather or trail conditions, always keeping your safety and comfort as the top priority.

Packing List and Trekking Gear for Khopra Danda and Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Trekking in the Annapurna region requires thoughtful preparation. Weather can vary drastically from warm, sunny days to freezing nights. Your packing should balance warmth, comfort, and weight. Below is a detailed gear checklist recommended by Female Guide Holiday to help you pack smart and trek confidently.

Essential Clothing

Base Layers

• 2–3 moisture-wicking t-shirts (quick-dry, synthetic or merino wool)
• 2 long-sleeved thermal tops
• 2 thermal leggings (for layering)

Insulation Layers

• 1 fleece jacket or pullover
• 1 down jacket (lightweight but warm; essential above 3,000m)
• 1 pair of trekking trousers (convertible to shorts optional)

Outer Layers

• Waterproof and windproof jacket with hood (Gore-Tex or similar)
• Waterproof pants (for rain or snow)

Lower Body

• 2 pairs of trekking pants (lightweight and quick-dry)
• 1 pair of thermal bottoms for cold nights
• 1 pair of shorts or leggings (for warmer days)

Underwear & Sleepwear

• 4–5 pairs of moisture-wicking underwear
• 2 sports bras (for women)
• Comfortable sleepwear (thermal or fleece preferred)

Footwear

• Well-broken-in trekking boots (waterproof, with good ankle support)
• Camp shoes or sandals (for use in teahouses)
• 3–4 pairs of trekking socks (synthetic or wool)
• 1–2 pairs of thermal socks (for cold nights)

Handwear

• 1 pair of liner gloves (lightweight)
• 1 pair of insulated gloves or mittens (windproof and waterproof)

Headgear & Accessories

• Warm beanie or wool hat
• Sun hat or cap (with wide brim for sun protection)
• Buff or neck gaiter (also useful as a dust mask or scarf)
• UV-protection sunglasses (category 3 or 4 lenses)

Sleeping Essentials

• 1 four-season sleeping bag (comfort rating of -10°C to -15°C)
• Sleeping bag liner (for extra warmth and hygiene)
• Optional: small travel pillow

Trekking Gear

• Trekking poles (adjustable, lightweight – highly recommended for descents)
• Daypack (25–35L with rain cover; for your daily essentials)
• Duffle bag or backpack (60–80L; Female Guide Holiday provides porter service for this)
• Rain covers for your bag

Toiletries & Personal Hygiene

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
• Quick-dry towel
• Biodegradable soap & shampoo
• Wet wipes & hand sanitizer (alcohol-based)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
• Toilet paper or tissues
• Nail clipper, tweezers
• Menstrual hygiene products (for female trekkers)
• Small mirror, comb

Health & First Aid

• Personal medications (enough for the entire trek)
• Diamox (for altitude sickness – consult your doctor)
• Paracetamol, ibuprofen, or other pain relievers
• Rehydration salts or electrolyte tablets
• Anti-diarrhea medication (e.g. Imodium)
• Antiseptic cream and band-aids
• Blister plasters (e.g. Compeed)
• Insect repellent (DEET or natural)
• Water purification tablets or LifeStraw

Electronics & Gadgets

• Headlamp with extra batteries (essential for early morning hikes)
• Power bank (10,000mAh or more recommended)
• Charging cables for your devices
• Universal travel adapter
• Camera or smartphone (for capturing the scenery)
• Extra memory cards

Documents & Money

• Valid passport (with Nepal visa)
• Copies of passport, visa, travel insurance
• Travel insurance details (must cover high-altitude trekking)
• Cash in Nepali rupees (ATMs are unavailable on the trail)
• Permits: TIMS Card and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (handled by Female Guide Holiday)
• Pen and small notebook (for journaling or quick notes)

Optional Items

• Lightweight book or Kindle
• Playing cards or travel games
• Snacks (energy bars, chocolate, nuts)
• Small thermos flask (for warm drinks)
• Earplugs (for noisy lodges)
• Safety whistle

Tips from Female Guide Holiday

• Pack light but smart: Porters will carry your duffel bag (up to 10–12kg), so bring only what’s necessary.
• Layering is key: Temperatures can change rapidly. Carry essentials in your daypack and adjust layers as needed.
• Hydration is vital: Carry at least two 1-liter bottles or a hydration bladder. Purify all drinking water.
• Respect the environment: Avoid single-use plastics. Female Guide Holiday promotes eco-friendly trekking and provides guidance on responsible travel.

Booking Policy

To confirm your booking for the Ama Yangri Trek with Female Guide Holiday, the following payment policy applies:

• Deposit at Booking
  A 20% deposit of the total trek amount is required at the time of booking to secure your spot on the trek. This ensures that your reservation is confirmed.
• Remaining Balance
  The remaining 80% of the total trek cost can be paid upon your arrival in Kathmandu before the trek begins. This payment can be made in cash or through other available methods.
• Credit Card Payments
  If you prefer to pay the remaining balance via credit card, please note that a 4% service charge will be applied by the bank to the total amount.

By following these payment guidelines, your trek booking will be confirmed, and your adventure will be reserved with Female Guide Holiday.

Cancellation Policy

We understand that plans may change, and if you need to cancel your booking, the following cancellation charges will apply, depending on how far in advance you cancel your trek:

• 45 to 60 days before departure: 35% of the total trek cost will be deducted.
• 30 to 44 days before departure: 50% of the total trek cost will be deducted.
• 15 to 29 days before departure: 70% of the total trek cost will be deducted.
• 7 to 14 days before departure: 85% of the total trek cost will be deducted.
• Less than 7 days before departure: 100% of the total trek cost will be deducted.

Please be aware that if you cancel within 7 days of the departure date, you will forfeit the entire cost of the trek. We strongly recommend reaching out to us directly if you need to cancel during this time, and we will do our best to discuss your situation.

Cancellation by the Organizer

In the rare case that Female Guide Holiday cancels the trek due to unforeseen circumstances (such as extreme weather conditions, natural disasters, or safety concerns), you will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule the trek for a later date.

Your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities, and we will make every effort to ensure your experience is as smooth as possible.

Force Majeure

In the event of a Force Majeure situation during the trek—such as natural disasters, extreme weather, political unrest, or unforeseen circumstances—the trek may be delayed, modified, or canceled for safety reasons. We will strive to provide alternative arrangements where possible, but we are not liable for any additional costs incurred as a result.

We will notify trekkers promptly if such an event arises, and refunds or compensation will be considered on a case-by-case basis. The safety and well-being of our trekkers are always our top priority during such circumstances.