Side by side
| Langtang Valley Trek | Khopra Danda Trek | |
|---|---|---|
| Days | 8 | 8 |
| Highest point | 4,984 m | 4,660 m |
| Difficulty | Moderate | Moderate |
| Total distance | 65 km | 78 km |
| Best months | March to May and October to November | March to May and October to December |
| Typical cost | $500 to $900 | $680 to $1,150 |
| Starts from | Syabrubesi (1,550 m) | Nayapul or Ghandruk, near Pokhara |
| Permits | 2 | 2 |
Choose the Langtang Valley Trek if
The Langtang Valley trek is a 7 to 9 day moderate route in the Langtang National Park, north of Kathmandu. It climbs through rhododendron forest to the high yak pastures of Kyanjin Gompa at 3,870 m, with optional side trips to Tserko Ri at 4,984 m. No internal flight is needed, which makes it the most practical short Himalayan trek from Kathmandu.
The valley trail is well-graded and the altitude gain is gradual. Tserko Ri is a genuine high-altitude day hike that demands a careful start and good acclimatisation.
Choose the Khopra Danda Trek if
The Khopra Danda trek is an 8 day ridge trail in Nepal's Annapurna region reaching 3,660 m at the lodge and 4,660 m at holy Khayer Lake. It offers close panoramic views of Mount Dhaulagiri across the Kali Gandaki gorge without the heavy foot traffic of Poon Hill.
Steep forest trails and an exposed ridgeline. The excursion up to Khayer Lake at 4,660 m requires good fitness, early morning departures and steady footing over loose stone paths.
