Khopra Danda (3,660m) is a ridge viewpoint above Ghorepani that offers panoramic views of Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna range with far fewer crowds than the neighbouring Poon Hill. The trail from Ghorepani climbs for about three hours through rhododendron forest to reach the community guesthouses and tea stalls on the ridge, where the 360-degree mountain view is, if anything, more impressive than Poon Hill — and the only people sharing it with you are likely to be a handful of other independent trekkers.
The Khopra Community Homestay at the ridge has been developed by the local community to provide a genuine income from trekking without relying on the main circuit. Staying here funds teachers, trails, and health posts in the villages below. The guesthouses are basic — sleeping bags advisable — but the food is good, and watching the sunset over Dhaulagiri from the ridge is worth the cold.
From Khopra Danda it is possible to continue to the sacred Khayer Lake (4,990m), a glacial lake considered holy by local people, in a long day's walk. The circuit continues down to Swanta village and back to Nayapul or Birethanti, making a pleasing four- to five-day loop that avoids the main trail entirely.