Kori Danda Sikles Kapuche Lake Trek - 11 Days

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Trip Facts
  • Duration 11 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Country Nepal
  • Maximum Altitude 3800 m / 12,467 ft
  • Group Size 2-15
  • Starts Kathmandu
  • Ends Kathmandu
  • Trip Style Trekking

Trek Overview 

The Kori Danda Sikles Kafuche Lakes Trek is one of Nepal’s hidden gems, offering trekkers a combination of stunning mountain views, rich cultural experiences, and the chance to explore remote, untouched landscapes. This trek takes you into the heart of the Annapurna Region, a lesser-visited area compared to the more famous Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp trek.

This route remains relatively off-the-beaten-path, making it perfect for those seeking a quieter, more secluded experience in Nepal’s mountains. The trek introduces you to Sikles, a traditional Gurung village, and leads you to the tranquil Kafuche Lakes, offering magnificent vistas of the Annapurna range and the Machapuchare (Fishtail) peak.

Historically, this trek was not very well known, but in recent years, the Kori Danda Sikles Kafuche Lakes Trek has gained popularity for its unique combination of natural beauty and cultural immersion.

What is the Trek Like ?

This trek is a moderately challenging adventure, suited to trekkers with moderate experience. While it doesn't reach the extreme altitudes of some of Nepal's most famous treks, it still offers great views, beautiful nature, and plenty of challenges in terms of steep climbs and rough terrain.

Starting from Sikles, you will pass through beautiful forests, terraced fields, and picturesque villages, gradually making your way to the high-altitude lakes of Kafuche. The trek offers panoramic views of the Annapurna Massif, Machapuchare, Lamjung Himal, and Manaslu.

This trek is ideal for those who are looking to experience the heart of rural Nepal, with opportunities to explore Gurung culture and interact with the local communities. It’s also perfect for those who enjoy trekking through forests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude lakes.

Trek Distance and Duration

Trek Distance: On average, trekkers will cover around 70-85 kilometers on the Kori Danda Sikles Kafuche Lakes Trek, depending on the exact route and variation taken.

Duration: The trek typically takes about 8-12 days, depending on the pace and rest days taken for acclimatization.

Daily Walking Hours: Expect to trek for 5 to 7 hours per day on average, with some days being slightly more challenging due to the altitude and steep ascents.

Best Time to Do This Trek

The best time to do the Kori Danda Sikles Kafuche Lakes Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons, when the weather is stable, and the trails are at their most scenic.

Spring (March-May): The temperatures are mild, ranging from 24°C in the lower regions to -4°C in higher altitudes, and the flora is in full bloom, making it a perfect time for trekking.

Autumn (September-November): The weather is also clear, with temperatures between 25°C to -6°C, and the surrounding mountain views are crystal clear. The autumn season also coincides with local Nepali festivals, giving you a chance to experience the culture up close.

Though it’s possible to trek in the off-seasons, summer and winter come with their own challenges—heavy rains during monsoon (June to August) and cold temperatures (December to February) can make the trails more difficult.

Accommodation & Food Insights

The accommodation along the Kori Danda Sikles Kafuche Lakes Trek consists mainly of tea houses and small guesthouses, especially as you approach Sikles and the lakes. The rooms are basic, with common squat toilets and other shared facilities, and the hospitality of the local people will make your stay a memorable experience.

The food on this trek is typical of Nepalese trekking cuisine, offering options such as:

  • Dal Bhat (lentils and rice)
  • Momos (dumplings)
  • Thukpa (noodle soup)
  • Tibetan bread, porridge, spring roll and other traditional dishes

You’ll also have the option to enjoy vegetarian dishes like fried rice, pasta, and soup.

Drinking Water: Boiled water is available at a nominal cost along the trail, and you can also carry water purification tablets for extra safety.

It’s recommended to bring snacks, energy bars, and nuts from Pokhara/Kathmandu for extra sustenance.

Itinerary
Day-to-day Plan
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Arriving at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport is the first step of your adventure in the heart of Nepal.

Once you collect your luggage and clear customs, you will be greeted warmly by your Trekking Group Leader or our Office Representative with a "Mystical Nepal Treks" board who will assist you and transfer you to your hotel.

Although Kathmandu is the busiest city in Nepal with hectic traffic, it still holds a unique charm with its local beauty and lively atmosphere. You will enjoy the fun of driving through its unfamiliar roads. The drive to the hotel will take you through Kathmandu’s lively streets, where the old and new come together. You’ll pass by ancient temples, busy markets, and modern shops, all blending into the colorful culture of Nepal.

Highlights:

  • Airport pickup.
  • Transfer to the hotel with your Group Leader.
  • Brief introduction about your trip.
  • Early arrival gives you a chance to explore Kathmandu.

Altitude: 1,400m / 4,593 feet
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Welcome Dinner
Distance: 6 km
Transport: Airport Pickup

Enjoy your time and relax as you prepare for your trek ahead!

This drive journey to Pokhara, Nepal’s adventure capital, via a scenic Prithvi Highway  is 200 km wonderful ride along the winding road. The road follows the Trishuli River, famous for rafting and lush hillsides. We have lunch on the highway stop, a beautiful spot by the river.  The new wider Pokhara Highway will soon make the journey more enjoyable.Upon arrival, check into a hotel near Phewa Lake. Free time to explore Pokhara, optional activities: Boating on Phewa Lake with stunning reflections of Annapurna peaks. Visit World Peace Pagoda for sunset views. Stroll along the Lakeside promenade, filled with cafes and souvenir shops.

After breakfast, we’ll depart from the picturesque city of Pokhara in a 4WD jeep, heading towards Sikles. The first part of the drive is along a smooth, established road, but soon we’ll venture onto a thrilling off-road section that adds an exciting twist to the journey. This 4 to 5-hour drive offers stunning views as we pass through several traditional Gurung villages. Along the way, you’ll be immersed in the rustic beauty of Nepal, with terraced fields, deep gorges, and magnificent mountain views. This drive provides a glimpse into the vibrant rural life of Nepal, rich in culture and authenticity.

Upon arrival in Sikles, the largest Gurung village, we’ll take time to explore the local community. We’ll visit a nearby temple, stroll through the village, and hike up to the surrounding hills for an incredible panoramic view of Annapurna and Lamjung Himal.**

Altitude: 1980 m / 6496 feet
Accommodation: Local Teahouse
Drive Duration: 4/5 Hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Distance: 45 km
Transport: Private 4WD Jeep

Today, your assistant guide or a local team member will give you a wake-up call to start the day. After a hearty breakfast, we’ll embark on a trail that climbs steeply along a narrow ridge. As we ascend, the breathtaking views of Annapurna and Lamjung Himal will unfold before you, offering unforgettable scenery. Along the way, we’ll pass a beautiful waterfall, adding to the natural beauty of the journey. As we continue towards Hugu Goth, we’ll cross several suspension bridges, each adding a thrilling touch to the adventure.

Altitude: 2026 m / 6649 feet
Accommodation: Local Teahouse
Walking Duration: 5/6 Hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Distance: 8 km

After breakfast, we’ll prepare for an exciting hike to the beautiful Kapuche Lake. This trek takes around 2 to 3 hours and will bring us to the world’s lowest-altitude glacier lake, located at 2,450 meters. The view of the surrounding mountains from the lake is awe-inspiring, but it’s the serene atmosphere and peaceful environment that make this place truly special. After taking in the tranquility and beauty of this incredible spot, we’ll retrace our steps back to Hugu Goth.

Altitude: 2450m / 8038 feet
Accommodation: Local Teahouse
Walking Duration: 2.5 hours to the lake (one way)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Distance: 5 km

Today, your trek begins by crossing the Hugu River and ascending through a stunning woodland of Rhododendron and pine trees. As you make your way up, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the majestic mountains, including the sacred Fishtail, Annapurna, and Lamjung Himal. What makes this journey so extraordinary is how the mountains seem to draw closer as you trek forward. Along the way, maintain a quiet demeanor, as you might encounter wildlife such as musk deer, Himalayan Tahr, and other rare creatures in their natural habitat.

Altitude: 3050 m / 10,006 feet
Accommodation: Local Teahouse
Walking Duration: 5/6 Hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Distance: 8.5 km

After a filling breakfast, we’ll begin our ascent towards Kori Danda (Kori Hill). Soon, we’ll step into the vast Himalayan meadows, where the land opens up in all directions, inviting you to roam freely across this pristine space like a true adventurer. As we continue, the alpine environment surrounds us, with alpine herbs and vibrant flowers painting the landscape. The view here is absolutely stunning, with many claiming that it surpasses even the beauty of Poon Hill or Mohare Danda. For those eager for even more spectacular vistas, there’s the option to continue on to Thulake Hill, a ridge sitting at 4,115 meters, offering unrivaled panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes.

Altitude: 3,800 meters / 12,467 feet
Accommodation: Basic Shelter
Walking Duration: 4/5 Hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Distance: 5.5 km

Today, we will retrace our steps back to Sikles, enjoying the familiar path with a fresh perspective.

Accommodation: Local Teahouse
Walking Duration: 6/7 Hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today, we will travel back to the beautiful Lake City of Pokhara in our private 4WD jeep.

Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel
Drive Duration: 4 Hours
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Distance: 45 km
Transport: Private Jeep

Take a scenic flight back to Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal. This picturesque journey will last approximately 25 minutes, offering one last aerial view of the stunning landscapes.

Accommodation: Hotel
Flight Duration: 25 Minutes

Based on your flight schedule, airport transportation will be arranged for you. In Nepal, it’s customary to arrive at the airport 3 hours before your flight. Your trek leader will be there to assist you at the international airport.

Meals: Breakfast
Transport: Airport Transfer

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Cost Details
Includes
  • PERMITS: All required permits are included for your trek.
  • PICKUP AND DROP-OFF: Roundtrip airport pickup and drop-off services for both domestic and international flights are provided.
  • ACCOMMODATION: Twin-sharing accommodation in both Kathmandu and Pokhara on a bed-and-breakfast basis.
  • WELCOME DINNER: Experience a traditional Nepali-style welcome dinner at a local restaurant in Kathmandu,Beverages not included.
  • SIGHTSEEING: A half-day guided sightseeing tour of two sacred UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kathmandu, including entrance fees.
  • TAXES: All applicable local and national taxes are covered.
  • GROUND TRANSPORTATION: Private vehicle transportation for roundtrip travel between destinations as per the itinerary.
  • STAFF TRANSPORTATION: Transportation for the assistant guide, porter, and any other trekking staff as required.
  • DOMESTIC FLIGHTS: Flights between Pokhara- Kathmandu is included as per the itinerary.
  • EQUIPMENT: Basic trekking gear such as a sleeping bag with fleece liners,down jacket and trekking poles are provided.
  • LODGING: Local tea-house accommodation on a twin-sharing basis. A single supplement can be requested at an additional cost, depending on availability.
  • DRINKING WATER: Filtered and boiled drinking water is provided each evening. Trekkers are encouraged to carry reusable water bottles or hydration systems with a capacity of at least 3 liters, camel bag suggested.
  • MEALS: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) along with a cup of hot beverage.
  • TREK LEADER AND ASSISTANT GUIDE: A certified trek leader will guide the group, with an assistant guide added for larger groups (3 or more trekkers).
  • PORTERS: The trek follows a 1:2 porter-to-trekker ratio, ensuring 1 porter for every 2 trekkers.
  • STAFF INSURANCE & ALLOWANCES: All trek staff, including guides and porters, are covered by insurance and receive their wages and allowances.
  • SAFETY MEASURES: A comprehensive first-aid kit and medical supplies are available, along with necessary medications for any emergencies.
  • COMPLIMENTARY ITEMS: Trekkers will receive a duffel bag, t-shirt and trekking map..
Excludes
  • NEPAL VISA: A visa fee of $50 is required for a 30-day visa to Nepal.
  • INTERNATIONAL AIRFARE: The cost of all international flights to and from Nepal is not included.
  • PERSONAL EXPENSES: Any personal expenses such as purchasing a Nepalese SIM card, internet charges, battery charging, hot showers, laundry services, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, etc., are the responsibility of the traveler.
  • EMERGENCY SERVICES: Any medical examinations, high-altitude evacuations, air evacuations, or rescue operations are not covered and are the trekkers' responsibility.
  • DONATIONS: Any voluntary donations to individuals or organizations are not included.
  • STAFF TIPPING: Tipping Trek Leaders,guides,and stafff is an expected custom in Nepal.
  • EXTRA NIGHTS: Additional accommodation costs in Kathmandu for early arrivals or late departures are not included.
  • PERMITS & SANCTIONS: Special permits or authorization letters required for activities like filming, using large drones, or filming with professional cameras will incur additional costs.
  • INSURANCE: Comprehensive travel or medical insurance is mandatory for all trekkers.
  • EXTRA PORTER: If requested, an extra porter or assistant can be arranged at a cost of $25 per day.
  • OPTIONAL TOURS: Any optional tours, sightseeing, or activities during your free time are not included in the package price.
Essential Information

Trek Distance and Duration

Trek Distance: On average, the Kori Danda Sikles Kafuche Lakes Trek covers approximately 70 to 85 kilometers depending on the exact route taken.

Duration: The trek typically takes about 8 to 12 days, with variations based on rest days, acclimatization, and pace.

Daily Walking Hours: Expect around 5 to 7 hours of walking each day. Some days may be longer due to the steep ascents or if you choose to add extra side trips.

Terrain and Trail Difficulty

The Kori Danda Sikles Kafuche Lakes Trek is considered a moderately challenging trek, primarily due to its steep terrain, gradual ascent, and remote nature. This trek is perfect for trekkers looking for a quieter, off-the-beaten-path adventure in the Annapurna region of Nepal, away from the crowds found on the more popular trails like the Annapurna Circuit.

The route traverses terraced fields, quaint villages, dense forests, and alpine meadows,  steep ascents as you gain altitude heading towards the serene Kafuche Lakes. Although the maximum altitude of the trek is around 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), which is less than some of the higher-altitude treks in Nepal, trekkers should still be prepared for highland terrain, remote trails, and long ascents.

Your fitness, stamina, and mindset will play a crucial role in the overall experience of the trek, and those with previous trekking experience will find it manageable. However, those new to trekking might find some parts of the trek physically demanding.

At 4,000 meters, trekkers should be mindful of altitude sickness, though the ascent is gradual, allowing for good acclimatization. 

Travel Insurance: Your Safety Net

Since this trek takes you to relatively remote regions of the Annapurna foothills, travel insurance with helicopter evacuation is strongly recommended. If you require emergency assistance, helicopter evacuation will be crucial due to the trek’s isolation. Additionally, we advise adding medical coverage and coverage for personal belongings to your insurance plan to protect against any unforeseen circumstances.

Required Permits 

To undertake the Kori Danda Sikles Kafuche Lakes Trek, you will need the following permits:

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): USD 30 per person.
  • TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System): USD 20 per person.

These permits are necessary for trekking in the Annapurna Conservation Area and for your safety and monitoring. It is covered in your booking.

Altitude Sickness

Although the Kori Danda Sikles Kafuche Lakes Trek doesn’t reach extreme altitudes, the risk of altitude sickness still exists as you trek above 3,000 meters. The Kafuche Lakes lie at around 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), so it's important to take gradual acclimatization breaks during the ascent.

Symptoms of altitude sickness include:

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Loss of appetite
  • Difficulty breathing

Prevention: Ascend slowly, stay hydrated, and take rest days if needed. Listen to your body, and don’t push beyond your limits.

FAQs

Definitely! Our airport representative or your group Leader will be there catering you from day of your arrival till departure. Do check for Mystical Nepal Treks clip board on your arrival in Kathmandu airport outside the arrival terminal hall. Make sure you have provided your flight details to us in advance.

Yes, you can obtain Nepal tourist visa on arrival at Kathmandu International Airport. In fact for some countries Nepal visa is to be prearranged from their country itself prior to their entry to Nepal. For more details please check Nepal Visa and Entry Procedure in the website

All  our trip itinerary have an arrival and departure day from Kathmandu so you can arrive and leave Kathmandu as per the program. You are also welcome and encouraged to arrive a day earlier or leave Nepal a day later to have a look around the vibrant Kathmandu Valley. Mystical Nepal Treks will help arrange any extra activities as per your interest outside the main package.

11 Days
Price from US$935US$990(All-Inclusive Price)
Group Discount Price
2 - 5 Person
US$935
6 - 9 Person
US$900
10 - 15 Person
US$860
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