Nepal · Trekking

8-Day Sikles Kapuche Lake Trek in Nepal with Gurung Village Stay

8 Days Challenging pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Trek a recently discovered and less-crowded route in the Annapurna region
  • 02 Visit Kapuche Glacier Lake at 2,450 m, the lowest-altitude glacier lake in the Annapurna region
  • 03 Enjoy spectacular views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Lamjung Himal
  • 04 Walk through charming villages, terraced farmland, and dense oak and rhododendron forests
  • 05 Learn about Gurung culture, traditions, religion, and daily lifestyle in Sikles Village
  • 06 Explore the Eco-Museum and Chili Kohinbo Temple to discover Buddhism and the Bon religion

The Sikles Kapuche Glacier Lake Trek is a scenic and less-crowded Himalayan journey in Nepal's Annapurna region, ideal for travelers seeking a remote experience with moderate difficulty and comfortable access. The route passes through traditional Gurung settlements, terraced farmlands, rhododendron forests, and high alpine landscapes beneath Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV. A major highlight is Kapuche Glacier Lake at 2,450 m, the lowest-altitude glacier lake in the Annapurna region, where favorable conditions may reveal small avalanches cascading into the lake. With time in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Sikles Village, this 8-day trek combines mountain scenery, local culture, and a rewarding trekking experience.

Kapuche Lake is a crystal-clear blue lake surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks, offering a truly magical atmosphere.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 8 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Challenging
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Pokhara, Kathmandu
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu, Journey to Pokhara, and Trek to Kapuche Lake

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593ft)

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by a representative from Marvel Treks holding a signboard with your name. You will then be transferred by private vehicle to your hotel in Thamel.

If time permits, you may visit the office for a pre-trip meeting, where you will be briefed on the Sikles Kapuche Lake Trek itinerary, safety procedures, and overall trek details.

Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Thamel

Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu (1,400m) to Pokhara (822m / 2,696ft)

After breakfast, board a tourist bus for a scenic drive to Pokhara, taking approximately 7-8 hours. Along the journey, enjoy views of lush hills, roadside villages, and the beautiful Trishuli and Marsyangdi Rivers flowing beside rocky landscapes.

Alternatively, a 25-minute domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara can be arranged at an additional cost, giving you extra time to explore Pokhara Valley. Pokhara is famous for its serene lakes - Phewa, Begnas, Rupa, and others - and stunning Himalayan views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Lamjung Himal.

Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Pokhara
Meals: Breakfast
Driving Distance: 205 km / 127 miles

Day 3: Drive from Pokhara (822m) to Sikles (1,980m / 6,496ft)

Today, you will travel by 4WD jeep from Pokhara to Sikles village, covering approximately 40 km in 3-4 hours. The off-road journey passes picturesque villages such as Taprang, Chipli Gaun, and Khilang, along with terraced hillsides and mountain scenery.

Sikles is a traditional Gurung village located at 1,980 meters, known for its rich culture, stone houses, and breathtaking mountain views. After arrival, explore the village, visit the Eco-Museum and Chili Kohinbo Temple to learn about Buddhism and the Bon religion, or climb the Sikles viewpoint tower for panoramic views of Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, and surrounding peaks.

Accommodation: Tea House or Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Driving Duration: 4-5 hours

Day 4: Trek from Sikles (1,980m) to Hugu Goth (2,016m / 6,614ft)

After breakfast, begin your first trekking day toward Hugu Goth. The trail climbs gradually via stone steps and narrow hillside paths. As you leave Sikles, enjoy clear views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal.

The route follows dramatic cliff-side trails and descends briefly to the beautiful Edi Jharna waterfall before ascending steep stone staircases, crossing suspension bridges and small rivers. The trail is surrounded by lush forest, riverside paths, and dense greenery. There are no settlements along the route until you reach Hugu Goth.

Accommodation: Tea House or Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours
Distance: 7.4 km / 4.5 miles

Day 5: Trek from Hugu Goth (2,016m) to Kapuche Glacier Lake (2,450m / 8,038ft) and return to Sikles

Early in the morning, hike from Hugu Goth to Kapuche Glacier Lake, the lowest-altitude glacier lake in the Annapurna region. The trail is relatively short and scenic, taking about 2 hours to reach the lake.

Kapuche Lake is a crystal-clear blue lake surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks, offering a truly magical atmosphere. If conditions are favorable, you may witness small avalanches descending from Annapurna II into the lake - a rare and unforgettable sight.

After spending time exploring and photographing the lake, descend back to Hugu Goth and continue trekking downhill to Sikles village, arriving faster on the return journey.

Accommodation: Tea House or Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Trekking Duration: 6-7 hours
Distance: 12 km / 7.4 miles

Day 6: Drive from Sikles (1,980m) to Pokhara (822m)

After breakfast, bid farewell to Sikles village, often marked by a traditional tika blessing from your host. Travel by 4WD jeep back to Pokhara, a journey of approximately 3-4 hours.

Upon arrival, enjoy your free time exploring Pokhara - walk along Phewa Lake, enjoy boating, kayaking, or relax at lakeside cafes. The reflection of city lights and mountain silhouettes on the lake at night is truly mesmerizing.

Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Pokhara
Meals: Breakfast
Driving Duration: 3-4 hours

Day 7: Drive from Pokhara (822m) to Kathmandu (1,400m)

After breakfast, return to Kathmandu by tourist bus, a scenic 7-8 hour drive through river valleys, rural towns, and terraced hillsides. Alternatively, a 25-30 minute domestic flight is available at an additional cost.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check into your hotel and enjoy your final evening exploring Thamel, shopping for souvenirs, or relaxing. A farewell dinner may be arranged to celebrate the successful completion of the trek.

Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Thamel
Meals: Breakfast
Driving Distance: 205 km / 127 miles

Day 8: Final Departure

According to your flight schedule, Marvel Treks will arrange a private airport transfer approximately three hours before departure. If you have extra time, optional sightseeing tours or side trips can be organized upon request.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
2 cities · 8 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • All airport transfers and hotel transportation by private vehicle
  • 2 nights in Kathmandu (3-star hotel)
  • 2 nights in Pokhara (3-star hotel)
  • Tourist bus tickets: Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu
  • 4WD jeep transportation from Pokhara to Sikles and return
  • All meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during the trek
  • Tea house or homestay accommodation during the trek
  • All required trekking permits
  • Experienced, licensed, English-speaking trekking guide
  • Guide's salary, accommodation, meals, transport, insurance, and equipment
  • Government taxes, VAT, and official service charges

What's Not Included

  • International airfare, Nepal visa fees, and travel insurance
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • All beverages (hot, soft, or alcoholic drinks)
  • Porter service (available at USD 120 per porter)
  • Personal trekking equipment
  • Emergency evacuation and rescue costs
  • Tips for guides and trekking staff (customary)

What to bring

  • Trekking boots (well broken-in)
  • Warm down jacket
  • Waterproof jacket & trousers
  • Thermal base layers
  • Trekking pants & shirts
  • Fleece or insulating mid-layer
  • Warm hat, sun hat & gloves
  • Sleeping bag (rated for sub-zero temperatures)
  • Daypack (30-40L)
  • Trekking poles
  • Sunglasses & high-SPF sunscreen
  • Reusable water bottle / purification tablets
  • Headlamp with spare batteries
  • Personal toiletries & quick-dry towel
  • Personal medications & basic first-aid kit
  • Passport, permits & some cash

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), Ring Rd, Kathmandu, Nepal
End of the journey

Your 8 days finish where they began.

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