Category: New Trekking Routes in Nepal

Kori Trek Nepal: Discover the Hidden Beauty of Sikles, Kori Danda and Peaceful Kahphuche Lake

The Kori Trek is one of Nepal’s hidden treasures, combining breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and peaceful alpine settings. Starting in the Gurung village of Sikles, the journey passes through terraced fields, rhododendron forests, and high ridges before opening up to the vast meadows of Kori Danda. At nearly 3,800 meters, this viewpoint offers sweeping panoramas of Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, and the striking peak of Machhapuchhare.

Adding to its charm is Kahphuche Lake, a glacial jewel known for its turquoise waters and calm atmosphere, often described as one of the most peaceful natural sites in the Annapurna region. For trekkers seeking an alternative to crowded trails, this route provides both adventure and serenity in perfect balance.

Why Choose This Trek?

What makes this route special is the combination of cultural depth and natural beauty. Sikles village is one of the largest Gurung settlements in Nepal, where visitors can stay in traditional homes, taste local food, and experience vibrant customs. The ridges above the village lead to open alpine meadows, offering expansive views that rival better-known treks. Finally, Kahphuche Lake stands out as one of Nepal’s lowest glacial lakes, sitting at around 2,450 meters, where icy reflections mirror towering peaks. Together, these highlights create an experience that is both authentic and scenic, making it a memorable choice for those seeking something different.

Quick Facts

  • Starting point: Pokhara, with a jeep ride to Sikles.
  • Sikles elevation: 1,980 m.
  • Kori Danda elevation: Around 3,800 m.
  • Kahphuche Lake elevation: ~2,450 m.
  • Duration: 5–7 days, extendable to 9 days.
  • Difficulty: Moderate, with steep climbs in some sections.

Best Time to Go

The most favorable times are autumn (September–November) and spring (March–May). Autumn offers crystal-clear skies and striking views of the Himalayan range, while spring brings rhododendrons in full bloom. Winter (December–February) can be beautiful but cold, with snow covering high ridges. Monsoon (June–August) is the least ideal season due to heavy rain, slippery trails, and potential landslides.

Difficulty and Fitness Level

This trek is considered moderate. The main challenge comes from the altitude gain between Sikles (1,980 m) and Kori Danda (3,800 m). Trekkers will face steep ascents, narrow ridges, and long walking days. While no technical climbing skills are required, good fitness is important. Those who prepare with regular walking or hiking will find the trek manageable and rewarding.

Permits Required

Since the trail lies inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, two permits are necessary:

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

Both can be obtained in Pokhara or Kathmandu, and are essential for legal entry and conservation support.

Suggested 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Sikles (3–4 hrs). Explore Gurung culture and spend the night in a homestay.
Day 2: Trek from Sikles to Hugu Goth (5–6 hrs) through terraced landscapes.
Day 3: Climb to Nohtha (around 3,000 m). Trail passes through dense rhododendron and oak forests.
Day 4: Ascend to Kori Danda (3,800 m). Enjoy wide Himalayan views.
Day 5: Sunrise at Kori Danda, then descend via Kapuche route to visit Kahphuche Lake. Overnight nearby or return to Sikles.
Day 6: Return to Pokhara by jeep.

This plan can be adjusted based on pace, weather, and interest in spending more time at the lake or Sikles.

Getting to Sikles

From Pokhara, a 3–4 hour jeep ride leads to Sikles. The road is rugged and often affected by weather, so private jeeps are recommended for comfort and reliability. Local buses are available but take longer and may not run regularly.

Accommodation and Food

  • In Sikles: Comfortable homestays and guesthouses run by Gurung families.
  • On the trail: Basic tea-houses and simple lodges. Some higher sections may require camping.
  • Meals: Traditional Nepali dal-bhat, noodles, soups, and tea. Options become simpler with altitude, so carrying snacks is advisable.

Packing Essentials

To enjoy this trek comfortably, bring:

  • Warm layers, waterproof jacket, and trekking boots.
  • Sleeping bag for cold nights above 3,000 m.
  • Water purifier or tablets.
  • Trekking poles, gloves, hat, and sunglasses.
  • Headlamp, first-aid kit, and sunscreen.
  • Reusable bottle and light snacks.

Altitude and Safety Tips

Although Kori Danda is not extremely high compared to Everest or Annapurna Base Camp, it still reaches nearly 3,800 meters. Altitude sickness is possible. Trekkers should ascend gradually, drink water regularly, and descend if symptoms such as headache or nausea appear. Hiring a local guide can add safety and enrich the experience with cultural knowledge.

Cultural Highlights in Sikles

Sikles is the cultural heart of this trek. Stone-roofed houses, narrow paths, and communal courtyards define the village. The Gurung community is known for hospitality, music, and traditional dress. Visitors may witness cultural dances or local rituals, making the stay both educational and memorable. Respecting customs and asking before taking photos helps foster genuine connections.

Scenic Highlights

  • Sikles village: Cultural immersion with Gurung traditions.
  • Kori Danda: Alpine ridge with stunning Himalayan views.
  • Kahphuche Lake: A turquoise glacial lake offering peace and reflection.
  • Forests and meadows: Seasonal beauty, especially during rhododendron bloom.
  • Quiet trails: Far less crowded than Annapurna Base Camp or Ghorepani.

Responsible Trekking

Preserving the beauty of this trail is essential. Trekkers are encouraged to:

  • Avoid single-use plastics.
  • Stick to marked paths to protect fragile terrain.
  • Support local guides, porters, and homestays.
  • Leave no waste behind, especially near Kahphuche Lake and high meadows.

Cost Overview

Independent trekkers spend less, covering permits, food, accommodation, and jeep rides. Guided packages from Pokhara typically include all logistics: transport, permits, guide, and meals. Overall, the trek is more affordable compared to longer Annapurna routes, making it attractive for travelers on a budget.

Final Thoughts

This trek blends adventure, culture, and tranquility into a single journey. From the lively Gurung village of Sikles to the wide-open meadows of Kori Danda, and finally the calm turquoise waters of Kahphuche Lake, the route delivers an experience that feels both intimate and awe-inspiring. For anyone searching for an alternative to crowded Himalayan trails, the Kori Trek is a hidden path worth discovering.

New Trekking Routes in Nepal

Rating: 5 out of 5.

Nepal offers a wide range of hiking and trekking adventures because it is home to eight of the fourteen tallest peaks and has a vast variety of geographical features. Nepal is the ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts because of its unusual altitude contrast and diverse topography. There is still more to learn, taste, and experience in Nepal than you could ever see in a lifetime of travel. Alpha Adventure Treks & Expeditions (AAT) has created and investigated some of the best new hidden trekking routes in Nepal when popular trekking routes are so crowded and if anyone is looking for quiet and calm trekking routes, less trafficked or completely off the beaten trekking track. These new hiking paths are serene, gorgeous, and magnificent.

The majority of the newly opened trekking routes in Nepal pass via isolated settlements. The expedition therefore mostly relies on “camping,” necessitating your independence in terms of food and camping supplies. However, for interested visitors, picking a new trekking area will be a great enthralling journey whether they are trekking, exploring, studying geography and botany, or for other reasons.

  • Panch Pokhari Trekking:

A brand-new hiking trail in Nepal is called the Panch Pokhari. Northeast of Kathmandu, at the foot of the Jugal Himal, is Panch Pokhari (4,100 m). This location also has cultural, religious, and ecological significance. As a result, the five ponds (Panch Pokhari) in this area are revered. The environment, which is rather diverse and substantial, is located at the foot of the Jugal Himal. It’s kind of a cultural trip in Nepal since you pass through Sherpa and Tamang communities. You will get the opportunity to encounter both traditional Tamang and Sherpa culture on the trip. This camping excursion is also perfect for tourists searching for a serene, spiritual, and lovely trip.

  • WalunchungGola and Lumba / Sumba Pass trekking:

The secret town of WalchungGola is reached after a few days of walking on the same path that leads further north through a beautiful forest of rhododendron, pines, and oaks that is located away from and beyond the major hiking paths of North Kanchenjunga base camp. The Sherpa and Bhotia mountain tribes inhabit this village, which is located along the historic Trans-Himalayan Salt Trade and Caravan Route between Nepal and Tibet. The return journey brings you to the high Lumba-Sumba-La Pass, which is above 5,160m high and offers breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga, Makalu peaks as far as Everest in the west, after spending some time exploring WalunchungGola. The trek is ultimately finished in low, mild farmlands and the town of Tumlingtar, which is located on the Salpa Pass route to Makalu and Everest. 

  • Ghale kharka Siklis Trek:

Gole kharka Siklis Trek takes you to isolated, off-the-beaten-path settlements. The Ghale kharka-Sikles region is referred as the ecological walk. You will travel to the Gurung Ethnic Group’s traditional villages, enjoy the cuisine, and perhaps get to watch some traditional dance acts like the “Ghato” from Sikles. There are also stunning views of the Annapurna and Lamjung Himal. The nature and cultural heritage of this recently opened area are being carefully protected under the supervision of ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project).

  • Tamang Heritage Langtang Gosaikunda:

The closest Himalayan trekking area to the Kathmandu Valley is Tamang Heritage, Langtang Gosaikunda Trek. This trek is a magnificent journey that encompasses the Gosaikunda Trek, the Langtang Valley Trek, and the Tamang Heritage Trek. Following the Trishuli River north of Kathmandu, we ride via Trishuli Bazaar and Dhunche to Syabrubesi, a Tamang village on the outskirts of the Langtang National Park. Then, as we ascend through the lower, gorge-like portion of the Langtang Valley, we make a bend to the east and enter. On the journey to the Tamang settlement of Langtang, we go through oak and rhododendron forests and even traverse a glacier moraine. As is customary, we take a bus from Kathmandu to Syabrubeshi to begin our trip.

  • Mundum Trekking:

The beginning of the Mundum trekking trail is in the Diktel (1650m) district of Khotang village, which is located in the extreme east of Nepal past Haleshi Mahadev. The route then turns south into a valley in the direction of Tamkel Danda. As you make your way north-east up rocky Himalayan slopes to Salpa Pokhari (3348m), you’ll stay in teahouses and get a rare chance to experience Rai culture and go camping (Organize). The Mundum trekking track heads south to Hans Pokhari (2962m) and then on to Bhojpur(1600m)., providing breathtaking views of the Himalayas along the way

  • Khayer Lake / Khopra Danda Trek:

Between the Jomsom hiking trail and the traditional Annapurna Base Camp, the Khayer Lake Trek is a brand-new trekking route in the Annapurna region. It is a recently promoted magnificent trekking path with a mixture of Gurung and Magar culture with spectacular mountain views from Khopra Ridge and Poon Hill across the various Himalayas, including Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Nilgiri. The most beautiful and pristine short walk in the Annapurna Himalayas is the Khopra danda and Khair Lake trip. The journey departs from the beaten path and provides stunning mountain views, untamed terrain, and a traditional Himalayan hiking adventure. Even though the track deviates from the main Annapurna routes, simple community-run teahouses make the journey affordable and more moral by having trekkers pay directly to the community.

Is the new trail safe for solo trekkers?

If you take the right measures and prepare properly, you can trek alone in Nepal. On the Nepalese trekking trails, a lot of hikers go it alone. However, for safety and recognized courses, it is preferable to walk with a native guide on Nepal’s new trekking routes. There may be a number of concerns when hiking on recently opened, less traveled trails. For this reason, trekking with a local guide is usually advised for a secure and stress-free journey. Additionally, it would be beneficial if you could go on your journey with a local guide who has more knowledge of the hiking trails, so you wouldn’t have to worry about the routes or accommodations.

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