Trip overview
overview: Khayer Lake 17-days trekking
The Khayar Lake trekking route lies in the Annapurna region. This route has been developed to suit the trekker’s demand for a new destination in the Annapurna region. Khayar Lake trekking offers the trekkers a breathtaking panoramic view and a chance to interact with a mixed culture of Gurung and Magar people. The trekkers can take in the mesmerizing views of the Annapurna Himalayas, including those who would like to do this route, the Khayer Lake trek. Those who are able to view Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Nilgiri from Khopra. The most beautiful Khayar Lake is the key attraction of this area.
where is the Khayer lake trekking
Khayar Lake trekking is one of the best trekking routes in the Annapurna region, which lies in the center of the Annapurna area, providing the trekkers with the stunning view of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri Ranges. Khayar Lake trekking follows a quiet trail passing through the traditional villages and lush forests, away from the popular and busy routes. Even though this Khayer trek is also in the Annapurna region. We definitely enjoy the view of the great Annapurna range in this area, and it’s also called sacred Khayer Lake (4500 meters), as well as its amazing sunrise from the Ghorepani Poon Hill (3210m).
Lifestyle of Khayer Lake Trekking
The Khayer Lake trek, where you are able to know the warm hospitality of the Gurung community along the way, will make your hiking a lifetime memorable experience. The Khayar Trek route is off the beaten trail, onto the long, remote mountain ridges, through excited rhododendron and forest, and through Gurung habitual villages. Annapurna region into the wild glacial areas; below the Annapurna region in the south is demanding but well worth the effort. The view of the stunning, snow-covered Annapurna inspires the trekkers in each and every step along the way. The pleasant, tranquil trail starts from Pokhara. From Pokhara, our walk begins in the lower, more temperate region of the forested hillsides and through the Gurung and Magar villages. Nayapul will lead you through forests of rhododendron, with a glimpse of some wildlife and vegetation; the orchids send out perfume along the trail during spring.
Trekking route in the khayer lake trekking
As we move higher through the rhododendron, the views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhare are astounding. You will be amazed to see the breathtaking view of the snowcapped peaks. Then, we leave habitation behind and walk through forests until we finally emerge above the tree line at Kopra Danda, a fantastic mountain wilderness. You will enjoy the views of the Annapurna massif from Khobra Hill and sacred Khayar Lake (4500m), which offers the Khun Khane Festival (yak blood-drinking) and is really popular. The trek back to Pokhara takes us through Ghorepani, Poon Hill, Tadapani, Ghandruk, Saulibazar Birethanti, and Nayapul.
Lifestyle along the Khayer Lake Trek
Traditional Village Life: Along the trail, you’ll pass through picturesque Gurung and Magar villages. Life here is traditional and simple — with farming, herding, and seasonal tourism being the main occupations. Culture and Traditions: Expect to see Buddhist chortens, mani walls, and sometimes small Hindu shrines. Locals still practice age-old rituals tied to nature and the mountains. Hospitality: You’ll experience genuine warmth — tea houses and homestays offer authentic local meals like dal bhat, yak cheese, and homemade wines like raksi.
Vegetation
Subtropical to Alpine: Lower altitudes (up to ~2,500m): Lush rhododendron forests, oak, bamboo, and pine trees. Mid-altitudes: Dense cloud forests, with hanging moss and ferns. Higher up (above 3,500m): shrubs, alpine grasses, and barren rocky landscapes. Spring Bloom: In March-May, the hills explode in color — especially from the rhododendrons (Nepal’s national flower).
Flora and Fauna
Flora: Rhododendron (over 20 species!). Blue poppy, primula, gentians, and edelweiss at higher altitudes.
Fauna: Musk deer, Himalayan tahr (wild goat). Langur monkeys in the forests. Birds like the Himalayan monal (Nepal’s national bird), snow pigeon, and various eagles. If you’re lucky, sightings of red pandas and even snow leopards in remote sections!
Atmosphere:
Sacred and Serene: Khayer Lake itself is holy, especially important to both Hindus and Buddhists. Locals believe bathing here washes away sins.
Mystical Weather:
Mornings are usually crisp and clear, perfect for views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare (Fishtail). Afternoons often see mist rolling in, giving the forests a dreamlike, enchanted feel.
Silence and Solitude: Unlike the busy routes such as Annapurna Base Camp, the Khayer Lake trail remains less crowded, offering peaceful trekking through untouched landscapes.
Similarly, Himalayan Realms Treks presents a wide range of trekking options in the Annapurna region, encompassing both classic trails and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Furthermore, these routes cater to trekkers of all skill levels — from beginners seeking a short and scenic journey to experienced hikers aiming for a challenging expedition. Additionally, the breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and well-established trekking infrastructure make the Annapurna region an ideal destination for adventurers.
Below are some of them for your information.
Siklish Trek 9 days
Kathmandu Chitwan & Pokhara Tours 7/8 Days
Springs Tour: 9 days
Australian camp Tour Nepal for 6 days
Purchase Trekking 7 days
Kathmandu, Pokhara and Sarangkot Tour (6 days)
Dhampus, Sarangkot Trek 8 days
Jomsom Muktinath Trek, 13 days
Annapurna circuit Trek, 12 days
Mardi Base camp trek
Conclusion
Khayer Lake Trekking presents an enriching adventure that combines stunning natural landscapes, cultural experiences, and spiritual encounters. With services tailored to ensure safety and comfort, trekkers can immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the Annapurna region. Whether you’re seeking solitude away from crowded trails or, alternatively, a deeper connection with Nepal’s diverse heritage, the Khayer Lake Trek ultimately offers a truly memorable journey
Short Itinerary
- Arrival in Kathmandu
- Kathmandu sightseeing
- Drive to Pokhara
- Drive to Nayapul, trek to Ghandruk
- Trek to Tadapani
- Trek to Bhaisi Kharka / Dobato
- Trek to Upper Chistibung
- Trek to Khopra Danda (Ridge)
- Acclimatization/Exploration Day at Khopra Ridge
- Trek to Khayer Lake and back to Khopra Danda
- Trek down to Swanta
- Trek to Ghorepani
- Morning hike to Poon Hill (Sunrise), trek to Ulleri.
- Trek to Nayapul, drive to Pokhara.
- Pokhara sightseeing/free day.
- Drive back to Kathmandu.
- Final departure.
Itinerary
Pokhara is tourist’s paradise full of natural as well as cultural heritage sites such as lakes, caves, temples of Buddhist and Hindus along with mountains. You can observe views to the north across the hills and Phewa Tal (lake) to the white peaks of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. This drive will take most of the morning, leaving much of the afternoon to fall in love with its beauty. You can also fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara which takes about 25 minutes.
1 hrs drive to Kande then walk ascending the trial for 45 minutes. Than reach one of the beautiful place of Australian camp and take lunch. After lunch, ascending the trail for 1hrs. And reach to pothana and camp for the night. From here have a closer view of Mt. Machhappuchhre, Himchuli, Annapurna I, II, III and Annapurna south
Pothana to Landruk: Walking for 3hrs. Into the dense forest, the trek stops for lunch at Landrung.
Walking for 3hrs. Into the dense forest, the trek stops for lunch at Landrung.
Tadapani to Dobato 6hrs.Walkthrough the forest with Rhododendron Oaks Little Bamboo with Alpine shrubs and Himalayan vegetation. You may see the wild animals and many birds with Himalayan Pheasants. You will be walking uphill along the ridge and round the Rhododendron forest. When you camp you can see Annapurna South Fishtail and between them.
Dobato to Sistibung 5hrs.After Breakfast Walk down through Rhododendron Pine and still oaks. Dhaulagiri will be seen and villages. half of the downhill turn right-hand side to the stream also Sistibung will be visible on the further right-hand side. This is also not a village but that is a place for the animals when the local people took their animals for the graze. There are two camps is available for large groups.
Sistibung to Khobraridge 4hrs.Climb steeply up and at the end turn right-hand side and slow climb to the camp. This is the best place for the view of Annapurna south Dhaulagiri with other snow peaks.
Khobraridge to Khare Lake base camp overnight 5hrs.The slow climb up through the grassy meadow watching the beautiful Himalayan views. End of day camp at under the solve with rocky parts.
Khare lake base camp to sight seen to Khare lake and south base camp trip and back to camp and overnight. This is one of the beautiful days of the trip and a bit difficult because of the high altitude and some time it will be snow all around the area. But about the lake most of the time it will be clear with fresh water. This place is the pilgrim place for the local people. It is the symbol of Bharah Mahadev. After the sight has seen around the areas and back to the camp and overnight.
Khare Lake Base camp to Sistibung 6 hrs. All slowest and steeply downhill
Sistibung to Chitre 6 hrs Walking down and cross the little stream. After the stream turn left and walk down to the village. Lunch at Village and still walk down and cross the bridge then back up to Chitre.
Chitre to Ghorepani 2hrs.
Ghorepani to Nagy village. Via Pun hill 6hrs.Weak up early morning after light breakfast gets up to Pun hill for the view of three or four range of the high Himalayas including three 8000m. Snow peaks. After that walk down another side of Pun hill. Walk down to the right-hand side. Walking down through the trees with still Dhaulagiri views and stop for the lunch at Ramche. After lunch Steep Downhill than turn to the left to the camp. These camp places organize by Nagy School some time you may have a hot shower with paying 100 NPR. Sometime they will organize culture dance by the school students and teachers for the donation of the school.
Nagy Village to Lesper 5hre or Purano Goun 7hrs.Walking along the village and after an hour walk uphill to cross the little pass with the beautiful view and walk along the ridge and through the woods. Stop for lunch and walk to the camp.
Lesper Nayapul and after lunch drive to PKR and overnight
fly back to Kathmandu.from Pokhara flight swifts along with the Himalayas unveiling Manaslu, Ganesh Himal and Langtang ranges. Arrive at Kathmandu airport and transfer to the hotel. Check-in the hotel and rest about one hrs then visit the Thamel area for souvenir shopping.
Final Departure: Our journey in Nepal comes to an end today! We will drop the International airport approximately 3 hours before our scheduled flight. Your own way to home, we have plenty of time to plan our next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.
Useful Info
Trip Overview:
Trip Name: Khayer Lake Trekking
Destination Region: Annapurna Region, Nepal
Trek Duration: 17 days (Kathmandu to Kathmandu)
Maximum Altitude: ~4,660 meters (Khayer Lake)
Trek Grade: Moderate to Challenging
Best Seasons: Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November)
Accommodation: Lodges/Tea Houses, basic Tea houses at higher altitudes
Starting Point: Nayapul/Ghandruk
Ending Point: Nayapul
Major Highlights:
Sacred Khayer Lake and religious significance. Breathtaking views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri. Rhododendron forests (especially beautiful in spring). Authentic Gurung and Magar villages. Peaceful, off-the-beaten-path trekking experience
Accommodation & Meals:
Kathmandu & Pokhara: Tourist standard hotels (3-star or better)
During the trek, lodges and community-run tea houses. The Khopra Ridge and Khayer Lake section is more basic. Meals: Full board on trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner). Breakfast only in cities
Gear Checklist:
Light trekking clothing (layering important). Warm jacket and sleeping bag. Good trekking boots. Trekking poles. Rain gear (important in spring). Sunscreen, sunglasses. Personal first-aid kit. Water purification method
Important Trek Info:
Permits Required: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card
Altitude Caution: Khayer Lake is at ~4,660 meters — proper acclimatization is needed. Physical Fitness: Moderate fitness required; daily walking 5–7 hours. Internet/Phone: Limited above Tadapani; better at Ghorepani and Khopra Ridge. Cultural Sensitivity: Sacred site at Khayer Lake—respect local beliefs.
Why Khayer Lake Trek?
Authentic, peaceful trekking route — far from crowds
Spiritual journey to Khayer Lake, a holy site for Hindus. Spectacular sunrise views from Khopra Ridge and Poon Hill. Experience diverse ecosystems (subtropical to alpine). Support local community lodges (especially in Khopra)
