Ethical Trekking journey on Classic COMMUNITY Trail
16 Nights 17 Days Trip with 
TripCode: ADECO03

This ethical trek is an extended journey of a shorter community eco-trail, bringing you into closer contact with the spectacular Himalayas. Along the way, you’ll visit more local communities, allowing for a richer cultural experience while spreading the benefits of tourism more widely.

The trail offers an up-close and inspiring encounter with local life, set against the backdrop of breathtaking mountain views. It leads you through beautiful villages and continues on to the stunning Khopra Ridge — the southern flank of Annapurna South (7,200m). An optional visit to the pristine alpine lake of Khayer adds an extra layer of adventure.

From there, the descent takes you into the world’s deepest gorge carved by the sacred Kali Gandaki River. You’ll pass through the charming slate-roofed village of Paudar before an adventurous drive brings you back to Pokhara via Beni.

Trip Highs

• Breathtaking Mountain Views: Marvel at the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, along with numerous other majestic peaks that surround you at every turn.
• Authentic Cultural Encounters: Meet the Magar and other local communities, gaining insight into their daily lives and rich cultural traditions.
• Community-Run Lodges & Inns: Stay in the first and only fully community-managed accommodations on the trail, offering genuine hospitality and a true sense of local ownership.
• Direct Community Impact: Your trek directly benefits the local schools and the entire community, empowering them economically and fostering sustainable growth.
• Pristine Natural Beauty: Trek through untouched forests teeming with wildlife, offering a truly immersive experience in nature’s heart.
• Rich Birdlife & Wildlife: Spot diverse bird species and other wildlife, enhancing the natural beauty of this incredible region.
• Sacred Alpine Lake Khayer: Visit the sacred and serene Khayer Lake, nestled high in the mountains—a spiritual and natural highlight of the trek.

The Trek

This unforgettable journey begins in Galeshwor, just beyond Beni to the west of Pokhara. The trail winds through picturesque villages such as Nangi, Tikot, Swanta, and Paudwar, while offering panoramic views from Mohare Hills and Khopra Ridge. On average, you’ll be trekking 6–7 hours per day, although durations can vary—some days are shorter, others a bit longer, depending on the terrain and pace.

Why Choose This Trek?

This trek is ideal for anyone looking for a medium-duration adventure that’s rich in purpose and far from the crowds. As an off-the-beaten-path experience, it combines incredible natural beauty with a strong ethical foundation.

1. Community-Based Tourism: Every lodge along the trail is owned and operated by local communities, generating direct economic benefits and employment.
2. Stunning Mountain Views: From sunrise over the Annapurnas to the dramatic ridgelines of Khopra, the scenery is unmatched.
3. Authentic Village Life: Immerse yourself in real Nepalese culture, supported by community-run projects including organic farms, a local orange juice factory, a secondary school, and community forests.
4. Eco-Conscious Travel: This trek is rooted in sustainability, minimizing environmental impact while maximizing cultural connection.

Trip Grade / Difficulty

Moderate to Strenuous
The trek reaches altitudes between 3,600m (Khopra) and 4,600m (Khayer Lake). Suitable for those with a moderate level of fitness and a love for nature and adventure.

Best Time to Go

While this trek can be done year-round, the best seasons for clear skies and settled weather are:

• Autumn (Sept–Nov)
• Winter to Spring (Dec–April)
• Early Summer (May)

Food, Drinks & Accommodation

• All meals and lodging are provided
• Food is mostly locally sourced, and the cooks are trained to prepare tasty and hygienic traditional meals.
• For drinking water, please bring a 1–2L reusable bottle. Boiled and treated water is available at lodges and lunch stops. Plastic bottled water is discouraged for environmental reasons.

BOOK NOW

Ready for a meaningful mountain adventure that gives back?
Join us for the Khopra Ridge Community Trek—where every step supports a story.

What’s Next – After the Trek?

After completing this incredible trek, there are several fantastic options to extend your adventure based on your available time and interests.

Chitwan National Park: Head to Chitwan National Park, a perfect destination to unwind and enjoy a wildlife safari. Immerse yourself in the jungle and spot wildlife such as rhinos, elephants, and Bengal tigers, while enjoying the serene beauty of the park.

Whitewater Rafting Adventures: For adrenaline seekers, why not join us on a thrilling whitewater rafting trip on the Seti Gandaki or Kali Gandaki Rivers? These exciting adventures are organized by our professional sister company, Ultimate Descents Nepal, offering a safe, fun, and unforgettable experience on the water.

Whether you’re looking to relax or continue the adventure, we’ve got something for every traveler after the trek!