The Khapuche Lake Trek is one of the best-kept secrets in the Annapurna region — a 10-day journey from Pokhara into the rarely visited Sikles and Kori Danda area that combines one of Nepal’s most extraordinary natural features with some of the finest ridge-top Himalayan viewpoints in the country.
Khapuche Lake is also called Kapuche Lake — it holds a remarkable distinction: it is the lowest-altitude glacier lake in Nepal, at just 2,547 metres, yet surrounded by glaciers and ice walls beneath the Annapurna and Lamjung Himal ranges above. The combination of accessible altitude and glacial drama makes it unique among Nepal’s high-altitude lakes; most glacier lakes in Nepal sit above 4,000m and require days of serious altitude trekking to reach. Khapuche is different and that difference makes it extraordinary.
Above the lake, the route continues to Nho-ta and up onto the Kori Danda ridge at 3,800m — a high alpine viewpoint offering one of the most complete Himalayan panoramas near Pokhara, including Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South (7,219m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), and Lamjung Himal. An optional hike to Thulake (4,115m) takes the views even further — a true 360-degree Himalayan panorama above the cloud line that rivals any viewpoint in Nepal
The entire route passes through Sikles — one of the largest, most beautiful, and most culturally intact Gurung villages in the Annapurna Conservation Area and along trails that see a fraction of the visitor numbers of more famous nearby routes. This is the Annapurna region as it was before mass tourism arrived, quiet, authentic, and breathtaking at every turn.
Day 1 Arrival in Kathmandu (1,310m / 4,600ft)
Day 2 Drive Kathmandu to Pokhara (822m / 2,697ft)
Day 3 Drive Pokhara to Sikles & Trek to Hugu Goth (2,000m / 6,890ft)
Day 4 Hike to Khapuche Glacier Lake (2,547m / 8,353ft) & Trek to Nho-ta (3,050m / 10,004ft)
Day 5 Trek Nho-ta (3,050m / 10,004ft) to Kori Danda (3,800m / 12,467ft)
Day 6 Kori Danda Exploration & Optional Hike to Thulake (4,115m / 13,501ft)
Day 7 Trek Kori Danda (3,800m / 12,467ft) to Sikles (1,981m / 6,496ft)
Day 8 Drive Sikles to Pokhara & Rest Day
Day 9 Drive Pokhara to Kathmandu
Day 10 Departure from Kathmandu
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Kapuche Lake Trek is a unique Himalayan adventure that leads to the world’s lowest glacier lake at just 2,547 meters. Unlike most glacier lake treks in Nepal that require long journeys above 4,000 meters, this scenic trek offers breathtaking mountain views, glacial landscapes, and authentic local culture at a comfortable altitude.
Nestled beneath the majestic peaks of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna IV, Kapuche Lake is fed directly by hanging glaciers, creating a stunning turquoise lake surrounded by ice walls, waterfalls, and pristine wilderness. Meanwhile, the trail passes through traditional Gurung villages, lush forests, and peaceful mountain scenery before reaching the spectacular glacial basin.
Kapuche Lake Trek is perfect for travelers seeking a short trek in Nepal, an off-the-beaten-path adventure, and an unforgettable journey to one of the Himalayas’ most beautiful hidden gems.
Sikles is one of the largest Gurung villages in Nepal, home to a community that has maintained its traditional culture, language, and architectural style despite its relative proximity to Pokhara. The village is surrounded by terraced farmland, rhododendron forest, and views of the Annapurna range, and the warmth of Gurung hospitality is immediately apparent from the moment you arrive.
Passing through Sikles twice on the way in and the way out gives you two opportunities to explore the village, interact with local families, visit the monastery, and understand a Gurung community that is genuinely different from anything you will experience on the more commercial trekking routes.
The Khapuche Lake Trek is rated moderate. The maximum altitude of 4,115m at Thulake (optional) and 3,800m at Kori Danda keeps the risk of serious altitude sickness relatively low. Daily walking is 4–7 hours on well-defined trails with some steep sections on the ascent to Kori Danda. The hike to Khapuche Lake on Day 4 involves a significant descent and re-ascent that can be demanding on the knees. Trekking poles are recommended. No prior trekking experience is required, but good physical fitness is essential.
The best seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Spring transforms the Sikles and Kori Danda forests into a spectacular display of rhododendron blooms and is widely considered the most beautiful time to visit Khapuche Lake. Autumn brings the crispest mountain views and most stable weather. The Khapuche route is possible in winter (December to February), but the trail above 3,000m will have snow. The monsoon season (June to August) is not recommended due to heavy rain, leeches, and muddy trails.
Alliance Treks & Expedition Pvt. Ltd. Once is not enough for naturally and culturally Himalayas
