Kori Danda Trek – 11 Days with Kapuche Glacier Lake

The Kori Danda Trek is a peaceful and less-crowded Himalayan journey in the Sikles area of the Annapurna Region, offering a perfect blend of alpine landscapes, traditional Gurung culture, forested trails, and stunning mountain viewpoints. This short trekking experience is ideal for travelers seeking a quiet and authentic alternative to the busier trekking routes of Nepal, while still enjoying breathtaking views of Annapurna II, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Lamjung Himal.

The trail passes through Sikles Village, one of the oldest and most traditional Gurung settlements in the Annapurna Region, where visitors can experience genuine Himalayan village life, stone-built houses, traditional farming culture, and warm local hospitality. This cultural connection makes the trek not only scenic but also deeply meaningful.

A major highlight of the journey is the visit to Kapuche Glacier Lake, known as the lowest glacier lake in Nepal. Surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes, this hidden natural wonder adds a unique and unforgettable experience to the trek.

The main destination, Kori Danda (3,800m), is one of the most spectacular ridge viewpoints in the Annapurna Region. It offers breathtaking sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayan range, making it a truly rewarding high-altitude experience.

This itinerary also includes comfortable travel through Kathmandu and Pokhara, giving travelers a complete journey that combines cultural exploration, city experience, and Himalayan trekking in one package.

As part of the wider Trekking in Nepal experience, this route represents the peaceful and authentic side of the Himalayas. With expert local guidance and well-organized logistics from Mountain King Treks, travelers enjoy a safe, smooth, and meaningful adventure shaped by local knowledge and care.

Trip Highlights

• Sunrise view from Kori Danda (3,800m)
• Visit Kapuche Glacier Lake (lowest glacier lake in Nepal)
• Explore traditional Gurung village of Sikles
• Scenic forest and ridge trekking routes
• Stunning views of Annapurna II, Machhapuchhre & Lamjung Himal
• Relaxing stay in Pokhara Lakeside
• Less crowded and peaceful trekking trail

Trip Facts – Kori Danda Trek (11 Days)

• Trip Name: Kori Danda Trek with Kapuche Glacier Lake
• Duration: 11 Days
• Trekking Region: Annapurna Region, Nepal
• Starting Point: Kathmandu
• Ending Point: Kathmandu
• Maximum Altitude: 3,800m (Kori Danda)
• Trek Style: Lodge / Tea House Trek
• Trip Grade: Moderate
• Best Season: Spring (Mar–May) and Autumn (Sep–Nov)
• Accommodation: Hotels in Kathmandu & Pokhara, local lodges/guesthouses during trek
• Meals: Full board during trekking (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) + tea/coffee + seasonal fruits
• Transport: Tourist bus (Kathmandu ⇄ Pokhara), private vehicle for Pokhara–Sikles route
• Permits Required: ACAP and TIMS
• Main Highlights: Sikles Village, Gurung Culture, Kapuche Glacier Lake, Kori Danda Viewpoint
• Group Size: Private and group departures available
• Activity Type: Cultural trekking, village exploration, Himalayan viewpoint trekking

Short Itinerary – Kori Danda Trek (11 Days with Kapuche Lake)

• Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)
• Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, transfer to hotel, rest and preparation.
• Day 2: Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing
• Full-day UNESCO World Heritage sightseeing tour and trek briefing in the evening.
• Day 3: Kathmandu → Pokhara (820m)
• Drive 6–7 hours by tourist bus to Pokhara, free evening at Lakeside.
• Day 4: Pokhara → Sikles (1,980m)
• Drive 4–5 hours through scenic hills and Gurung villages, overnight at Sikles.
• Day 5: Sikles → Hugu Goth (3,100m)
• Trek 5–6 hours through forests, rivers, and alpine landscapes.
• Day 6: Hugu Goth → Kapuche Glacier Lake → Hugu Goth
• Trek 3–4 hours to Kapuche Lake (lowest glacial lake in Nepal), explore and return.
• Day 7: Hugu Goth → Kori Danda (3,800m)
• Trek 5–6 hours to Kori Danda viewpoint with panoramic Annapurna range views.
• Day 8: Sunrise at Kori Danda → Descend to Sikles
• Early sunrise experience, then 6–7 hours descent back to Sikles village.
• Day 9: Sikles → Pokhara (Free Day)
• Drive back to Pokhara (4–5 hours), free evening for rest, shopping, or lakeside activities.
• Day 10: Pokhara → Kathmandu
• Drive 6–7 hours back to Kathmandu, final arrival and preparation for departure.
• Day 11: Final Departure
• Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international departure.

Difficulty

This is a moderate-level trek suitable for beginners with good physical fitness as well as experienced trekkers. The trail includes gradual ascents and descents through forest paths, ridgelines, and alpine terrain.

On average, you will walk 3–7 hours per day, depending on the section of the route and pace of the group. Some days involve steady uphill trekking, especially toward Hugu Goth and Kori Danda, while other sections are more relaxed with scenic descents and village walks.

No technical climbing experience is required, but a basic level of fitness and stamina is recommended to fully enjoy the journey.

Best Time

• Spring (March–May): Rhododendron bloom and clear mountain views
• Autumn (September–November): Best weather and visibility
• Winter (December–February): Cold but clear and peaceful
• Monsoon (June–August): Green landscapes and fewer trekkers

Packing Checklist – Kori Danda Trek

Clothing

• Warm down jacket (recommended for higher altitude at Kori Danda)
• Thermal inner wear (top & bottom)
• Comfortable trekking pants
• Fleece jacket or warm sweater
• Woolen gloves & warm socks
• Windproof and waterproof jacket (important for changing mountain weather)

Footwear

• Strong trekking shoes with good grip
• Extra warm socks (2–3 pairs)
• Light sandals or slippers for evenings at lodge

Essentials

• Reusable water bottle or hydration pack
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• High SPF sunscreen
• Personal medicines and basic first aid kit
• Power bank / extra batteries

Optional Items

• Trekking poles (very helpful for uphill and downhill sections)
• Camera or smartphone for photography (Kapuche Lake & Kori Danda viewpoints)
• Lip balm and moisturizer (dry alpine air protection)
• Lightweight daypack for daily essentials

Accommodation & Food

Accommodation during the Kori Danda Trek is arranged to provide both comfort and authentic local experience.

• Kathmandu & Pokhara: Standard 3-star tourist hotels on twin-sharing basis with breakfast (B/B)
• During Trekking: Local tea houses, lodges, and homestays run by local families
• Rooms: Simple, clean, and comfortable with basic facilities in mountain areas
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during trekking days (full board)
• Food: Nepali dal bhat, noodles, rice dishes, soups, eggs, potatoes, and simple international meals
• Drinks: Tea and coffee served regularly during the trek
• Extras: Seasonal fresh fruits served during trekking days for energy and refreshment

This combination ensures a balance of comfort in cities and authentic Himalayan experience in the trekking region.

Permits

• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
• TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)

All required permits are arranged in advance before the trek begins to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is this trek difficult?

This is a moderate trek, suitable for beginners with good basic fitness as well as experienced trekkers.

Does this trek include Kapuche Lake?

Yes, Kapuche Glacier Lake is included as a side excursion from Hugu Goth.

What is the best season for this trek?

The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) when weather conditions are stable and mountain views are clearest.

Do I need a guide for this trek?

Yes, a licensed trekking guide is highly recommended for safety, navigation, and a better cultural experience along the route.Here is a clean and professional Trip Facts – Kori Danda Trek (11 Days) section for your booking page:

Plan Your Kori Danda Trek Adventure

The Kori Danda Trek offers a peaceful Himalayan experience through traditional Gurung villages, forested trails, Kapuche Glacier Lake, and the stunning viewpoint of Kori Danda. This journey is ideal for travelers seeking a less-crowded alternative in the Annapurna region, combining nature, culture, and breathtaking mountain scenery.

With experienced local guides and well-organized logistics, we ensure a safe, comfortable, and meaningful trekking experience in the Himalayas.

Contact Us

WhatsApp / Call: +977-9841566449

Email: info@mountainkingtrek.com

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