Kapuche Lake Trek

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Kapuche Lake Trek

Package Info

Duration

5 Days

Group

2-12

Max Altitude

2450 m

Best Season

March -May, August-November

Overview

Kapuche Lake Trek: Explore the World’s Lowest Glacier Lake

The Kapuche Glacier Lake Trek is a remarkable journey to one of Nepal’s newest and least-crowded trekking destinations. Located at just 2,546 meters above sea level, Kapuche is widely recognized as the lowest-elevation glacier lake in the Himalayas — an extraordinary feature that makes it ideal for those seeking glacier views without the risk of altitude sickness.

This short and rewarding trek begins from Sikles, a traditional Gurung village northeast of Pokhara. Along the way, you’ll hike through rhododendron forests, terraced fields, alpine meadows, and peaceful highland pastures, all framed by stunning views of Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, and Lamjung Himal.

Perfect for families, beginner trekkers, or anyone looking to experience raw Himalayan beauty in under a week.

Itinerary

Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Sikles (1,980m)

Drive ~3 hours to Sikles, one of Nepal’s largest Gurung villages
Explore the village, Rishing Danda viewpoint, and settle into a community lodge

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Accommodation: Namaste Guest House

Day 2: Trek from Sikles to Hugu Goth (2,100m)

Begin your hike through forested hills and remote pastures
Reach Hugu Goth, a peaceful settlement with traditional teahouse lodges
Spot local wildlife, grazing yaks, and stunning alpine flora along the trail

Trek Duration: 6–7 hours | Distance: ~14 km | Accommodation: Teahouse | Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Day 3: Hike to Kapuche Lake (2,450m), Explore, Return to Hugu Goth

Short morning hike (~2 hours) to Kapuche Glacier Lake
Enjoy incredible reflections of Annapurna and Lamjung Himal on its turquoise surface
Spend time exploring the lakeside and return to Hugu for the night

Trek Duration: 4–5 hours | Distance: ~8 km | Accommodation: Teahouse | Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Day 4: Trek from Hugu Goth to Sikles

Retrace your trail back through forests and hills to Sikles
Enjoy Gurung cuisine and hospitality before returning to the city

Trek Duration: ~6 hours | Distance: ~12 km | Accommodation: Teahouse | Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Day 5: Drive from Sikles to Pokhara

Morning drive (~3 hours) from Sikles back to Pokhara
Optional stop for lunch and village souvenirs before concluding the trip

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Inclusions

Includes

4 nights accommodation in teahouses and local lodges
3 meals per day during the trek (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner), with tea/coffee twice daily
Private jeep transport from Pokhara to Sikles and back
Licensed English-speaking trekking guide
Sleeping bag and trekking poles (on request)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card
First aid kit, guide insurance, and government taxes

Excludes

Hotel in Pokhara before/after the trek
Bar bills, bottled water, snacks, or hot showers
Extra porter (available at $25/day)
Personal expenses, souvenirs, or emergency evacuation
Tips for guide and driver (optional)

Trek Preparation and Packing Guide

Permit Requirements for Kapuche Lake Trek:

To trek Kapuche Lake, you’ll need:

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

Permits can be obtained in Pokhara. You’ll need:

Passport photocopy
Two passport-size photos
Valid travel insurance

We can help arrange permits ahead of your arrival to save time and hassle.

Recommended Packing List:

Waterproof trekking boots
Thermal base layers & fleece
Windproof & down jacket
Trekking pants and gloves
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
Headlamp with extra batteries
Water purification tablets or filter
Reusable water bottle or hydration pack
Light snacks and energy bars
Basic first aid and medications

Keep your pack light but weather-ready.

Gallery

FAQs

Is Kapuche Lake really the lowest glacier lake in the world?

Yes — at 2,546m, it is one of the lowest glacial lakes formed by active glacial melt in the Himalayan belt, offering glacier lake beauty at accessible elevation.

Is this trek suitable for beginners or children?

Absolutely. The trail is moderate with no technical sections. It’s safe for children and elderly with basic fitness.

Can I do the trek without a guide?

Not recommended. The trail is newly opened, unmarked in sections, and prone to avalanches. A licensed guide ensures safety, navigation, and comfort.

What permits do I need?

You’ll need the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and TIMS card — both included in our package.

Is altitude sickness a concern?

No. The highest point is 2,546m — far below the typical AMS threshold.