Kapuche Lake and Kori Danda Trek | Magnificent views

The adventure begins with a picturesque drive along the hillside highway that connects Kathmandu to Pokhara. From there, another scenic drive takes you to Sikles, the trailhead of this remarkable journey. Sikles, a Gurung village, is renowned for offering an authentic taste of Gurung cultures and traditional lifestyles.

The trek then proceeds from Sikles to Hugu Goth and continues onwards to the mesmerizing Kapuche Glacier Lake. Continuing the trek, you will reach the next prominent destination, Nohtha, and traverse through virgin forests teeming with biodiversity. After savoring the panoramic vistas from the vantage points of Kori Danda and Thulek, the trek circles back to Pokhara, marking the conclusion of this extraordinary experience.

The Kori Danda trek with Kapuche Lake is categorized as one of the less challenging trails within the Annapurna region, with elevations ranging from 3000 to 4000 meters.

The best seasons for the Kapuche Lake and Kori Danda trek in central Nepal are spring(March-May) and autumn(September-November).

The spring season offers mild and pleasant weather with comfortable daytime temperatures. Spring is considered one of the best seasons because it provides ideal trekking conditions with less rainfall, clear skies, and excellent visibility for panoramic mountain views.

Similarly, autumn is another season that is considered suitable for the trek. It offers stable weather conditions with dry and clear skies. The trails are generally less crowded compared to the peak spring season.

There are certain seasons you might want to avoid when you plan the Kapuche Lake and Kori Danda Trek due to challenging weather conditions.

Monsoon Season(June-August): This is the period of heavy rainfall in Nepal. Trekking during monsoon season can be very challenging and risky due to slippery trails, leeches, landslides, and reduced visibility. Therefore monsoon is not considered ideal for trekking in this region.

Winter Season(December-February): The winter months bring cold temperatures and heavy snowfall at higher elevations. Trekking during this time can be extremely cold, and some parts of the trail may be closed due to snow. Accommodations and facilities may also be limited in the colder months.

The specific permits required for the Kapuche Lake and Kori Danda trek are:

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): This permit is required for all trekkers entering the Annapurna Conservation Area, which includes the area where Kapuche Lake and Kori Danda are located. The ACAP is meant to help conserve the natural environment and sustain the local communities.

Trekkers’ Information Management System Card (TIMS Card): The TIMS Card is generally required for all trekkers in Nepal, although there were variations in its implementation in different regions.

• Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu Airport
• Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara
• Day 3: Drive from Pokhara to Sikles (1,981m) and trek to Hugu Goth (2,000m)
• Day 4: Hike from Hugu Goth to Kapuche Glacier Lake (2,480m) and trek to Nho-ta (3,050m)
• Day 5: Trek from Nho-ta (3,050m) to Kori Danda (3,800m)
• Day 6: Kori Exploration – Thulek (4,115m)
• Day 7: Trek from Kori Danda to Sikles (1,981m)
• Day 8: Drive to Pokhara and rest
• Day 9: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
• Day 10: Departure

The Kapuche Lake and Kori Danda trek is a mesmerizing journey through the Annapurna region of Nepal, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. Beginning in the charming village of Sikles, trekkers venture through a landscape that transitions from lush forests to rugged mountain trails.

The trail leads to Kapuche Lake, a hidden gem nestled amidst towering peaks. The serene waters of the lake reflect the surrounding mountains, creating a scene of unparalleled tranquility. After soaking in the beauty of Kapuche Lake, the trek continues to Kori Danda, a spectacular viewpoint that offers panoramic vistas of the Himalayas.

Throughout the journey, trekkers have the opportunity to interact with local communities, experiencing firsthand the rich culture and hospitality of the region. Traditional villages dot the landscape, providing glimpses into the daily lives of the people who call these mountains home.

As trekkers ascend to higher altitudes, they are rewarded with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, cascading waterfalls, and verdant valleys. Each step brings new discoveries and unforgettable experiences, making the Kapuche Lake and Kori Danda trek a truly unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Himalayas.