The Kapuche-Kori Trek is a hidden gem in the Annapurna region, perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure. This 7-day trek takes you through lush forests, traditional Gurung villages, and stunning mountain viewpoints, starting from the scenic city of Pokhara. Highlights include Kapuche Lake, the lowest glacier lake in Nepal, known for its crystal-clear waters and serene beauty. The trek ascends to Kori Hill at 3,800 meters, offering panoramic views of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges, including iconic peaks like Annapurna II (7,937m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), and Lamjung Himal (6,983m). Ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful, authentic trekking experience in Nepal.
Overview
The Kapuche Lake and Kori Trek is a hidden gem in the Annapurna region of Nepal, offering trekkers an off-the-beaten-path adventure through some of the most scenic and remote landscapes in the country. This 10-day trek takes you through lush forests, traditional Gurung villages, and breathtaking mountain viewpoints, all while providing a unique opportunity to experience Nepal’s pristine natural beauty and vibrant cultural heritage.
Starting from the picturesque city of Pokhara, the journey begins with a drive to Sikles Village, the largest Gurung settlement in the region. From Sikles, the trek gradually ascends through dense rhododendron and oak forests, offering spectacular views of towering Himalayan peaks like Annapurna II (7,937m), Annapurna IV (7,525m), Lamjung Himal (6,983m), and the iconic Machhapuchhre (6,993m), also known as Fishtail Mountain. Along the route, you’ll encounter serene rivers, cascading waterfalls, and a diverse array of flora and fauna, making each day of the trek an immersive experience in nature.
Kapuche Lake (Virgin Ice Lake)
One of the major highlights of the trek is the visit to Kapuche Lake, the lowest glacier lake in Nepal, located at an elevation of 2,450 meters. Nestled in a serene valley beneath Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal, this crystal-clear, blue glacial lake offers a sense of tranquility and untouched beauty that few places in the world can match. Kapuche Lake, also known as the “Virgin Ice Lake,” is formed by glacial meltwater from the surrounding peaks. If you’re fortunate, you may even witness small avalanches cascading down the mountains, a spectacular natural phenomenon that adds to the lake’s allure.
Kori Hill
The trek also leads you to Kori Hill (Kori Danda), a panoramic viewpoint at 3,800 meters that provides one of the best vantage points in the Annapurna region. From the summit of Kori Hill, you’ll be rewarded with unobstructed views of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges, including Annapurna II (7,937m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), Lamjung Himal (6,983m), and the distant Manaslu (8,163m). The wide, open grasslands of Kori Hill are often used for grazing sheep, adding to the pastoral beauty of the landscape.
The Kapuche Lake and Kori Trek is perfect for trekkers seeking a quieter, less commercialized route in the Annapurna region. With its combination of pristine natural beauty, panoramic mountain views, and rich cultural experiences, this trek promises an unforgettable journey through one of Nepal’s most scenic and unspoiled areas. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a first-time adventurer, the Kapuche Lake and Kori Trek offers something for everyone.
Trek Highlights
- Stunning Mountain Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of iconic peaks such as Annapurna II (7,937m), Machhapuchhre (6,993m), Lamjung Himal (6,983m), and the distant Manaslu range (8,163m).
- Kapuche Lake: Visit Nepal’s lowest glacier lake, Kapuche Lake, located at 2,450 meters, a serene and crystal-clear body of water fed by glacial meltwater from the surrounding peaks.
- Kori Hill: A vantage pKori Hill (Kori Danda): Reach Kori Hill at 3,800 meters, offering a panoramic viewpoint with some of the most incredible vistas in the Annapurna region, rivaling the famous Poon Hill.oint rivaling the famous Poon Hill, Kori Hill offers sweeping views of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges, as well as the rolling hills and valleys below. The trek to Kori Hill is less crowded than other popular trekking routes, providing a more intimate experience with nature.
- Pristine Nature: Trek through lush forests, including rhododendron and oak woods, alpine meadows, and diverse flora and fauna, offering an immersive nature experience.
- Diverse Landscapes: The trail winds through a variety of landscapes, from dense forests to open alpine meadows, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife such as the Himalayan Thar, Musk Deer, and the vibrant Danfe (Lophophorus), Nepal's national bird.
- Remote and Unspoiled Trails: Explore a less-traveled trekking route through the inner Annapurna conservation area, offering tranquility and stunning landscapes away from the crowds.
- Moderately Challenging but Accessible: A moderately challenging trek suitable for both experienced trekkers and those seeking a quieter, more intimate trekking experience.
- Gurung Culture: The trek passes through traditional Gurung villages, where you can experience the warm hospitality and rich cultural heritage of the Gurung people. Sikles Village, in particular, offers an authentic glimpse into the local way of life, with its traditional stone houses, terraced fields, and vibrant festivals.