Located at the unique landscape and pristine nature’s majesty, the Kapuche Glacier Lake is a hidden gem and the latest discovered lake. In the northeast of Sikles Kaski, the lake is also known as the Lowest Glacier Lake in Nepal, with an elevation of 2546 m. The journey to Kapuche Glacier Lake trek starts from the vibrant city of Pokhara and passes through the isolated lifestyle, numerous hills, and less traveled trails.
The word Kapuche consists of three different words with different meanings: Ka’ means “Snow or ice,” ‘Pu’ means ‘melting down,’ and ‘Che’ means ‘settling on the flat land.’ Thus, the meaning of its name is ‘lake formed by sliding down melting snow and settling on the flat land to form a lake.’
The lake is within the Annapurna region, thus providing an eye-catching view of Mount Annapurna II (7937m), Annapurna IV (7525m), Lamjung Himal (6983m), Dhaulagiri (8167m), and many more. As the lake lies within the Siklis village, the largest Gurung village, trekkers can learn about their culture and tradition, enhancing the overall experience. Moreover, the remoteness and complexity of the trail stop trekkers from exploring its beauty, but trekkers with the determination to explore the majesty of the lake.
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Kapuche Glacier Lake Trek
The journey to Kapuche Glacier Lake begins from Kathmandu and continues to Pokhara. You can get to Pokhara through various options, including airway and ground transportation. While the airway takes you to Pokhara just within 15 days, the ground transportation takes 7-8 hours. Once you reach Pokhara, you’ll drive to Sikles village on a 4WD drive, taking 3 hours. Siklis is 36.7 km from Pokhara through an off-beaten trail on a bumpy road. You’ll pass through Taprang, Chipli Gaun, and Khilang Gaun on the route.
The trek to Kapuche Lake begins from Siklis village and heads towards Hugu Goth. The town lies at an altitude of 2100m and is an ancient settlement whose locals sustain their lives in animal husbandry. It takes 6-7 hours to reach Hugu Goth from Siklis village, covering 14km, walking via stone-paved paths and stone-stairs on the narrow trail. The trail leads to Kapuche glacial lake from Hugu Goth, taking 2 to 3 hours.
Views of stunning mountain ranges and diverse wildlife are eye-catching along the way to the lake. You will witness the turquoise glittering lake encircled by snow-capped peaks as you approach the lake. On the trail, you may witness minor avalanches from Annapurna II. Spend some time at the lowest glacier lake at 2546 meters above sea level, and feel a sense of accomplishment. After some time, return to the Siklis through the same trail and then back to Pokhara on the same road.
The best time to visit Kapuche Glacier Lake
Kapuche Lake faces four distinct seasons, each with its charm. However, if you want an ideal trekking experience, trek during Spring and Autumn. Spring, spanning from March to May, is a season of rhododendron blossom, making the journey enchanting. The weather during the season is mild, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 22°C during the daytime and 0°C to -5°C at night. Likewise, from September to November, Autumn is another perfect time for the Kapuche Lake trek. The season offers favorable weather conditions with clear skies and pleasant temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C at day and reaching sub-zero at night.
However, consider avoiding the trek during the Monsoon and Winter season. Monsoons from June and July bring heavy rainfall, making the trek difficult due to landslides and slippery trails. Nevertheless, days are sunny during the time if rainfall doesn’t occur, and temperatures range from 15°C to 24°C during the day and 4°C to 8°C at night. Moreover, winter is harsh, with a cold season where the weather ranges from 10°C to 5°C during the day and drops to minus degrees Celsius at night.
Cultural Experience along the Kapuche Glacier Lake
The trek to Kapuche Glacier Lake means stepping into the wonderland of cultural heritage. The journey to Lake passes through Gurung and Magar villages, including Thak, Sikles, and Hugu Got. The villages and their locals take you closer to local traditions and customs, enhancing the overall trek. The indigenous have preserved their culture for centuries.
Along the route to Kapuche, you’ll witness the architectural beauty of stone-paved houses arranged in a row, showcasing the region’s cultural heritage. Gurung and Magar’s communities are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness, and during your stay on the trail, you can experience their politeness and genuineness. Their unique cuisine, celebrations, and identity will amaze you and increase your curiosity to learn more about their culture.
Can I trek to Kapuche Lake without a guide?
Yes, you can trek to Kapuche Lake without a guide, as the trek is easy to moderate, and one can complete the trek smoothly with the proper preparation. The trail to Kapuche is relatively easy but remote. Trekkers should also prepare by carrying a map and researching the route, even though the trek is relatively easy. Also, checking the weather conditions daily is crucial as the weather can change anytime. Furthermore, the trek passes through various local settlements where you can get help and guidance from locals about the terrain and route, making it possible to trek independently.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a serene landscape in Nepal’s Himalayas, the Kapuche Glacier Lake Trek is for you. Kapuche Glacier Lake offers you everything that will leave long-lasting memories whether you are a nature enthusiast, experienced or first-time trekker. From the majestic mountain peaks of the Annapurna ranges to unique Magar and Gurung communities, the trek perfectly combines nature’s allure and cultural heritage.
FAQs
Where is Kapuche Glacier located?
Kapuche Glacier is in the Kaski district of the Gandaki province of Nepal, at an elevation of 2546 m/8353 ft above sea level. The Lake is in the Annapurna region, near the Siklis village and 65km northeast of Pokhara.
How far is Kapuche Glacier from Pokhara?
Kapuche Lake is about 65km from Pokhara, and the journey takes 2-3 days. It includes both driving and trekking, starting with a drive from Pokhara to Siklis and trekking through Hugu Goth to Glacier Lake. It takes 3-4 hours of drive from Pokhara to Siklis and about 10-11 hours to reach Kapuche Glacier from Silkis.
How is Kapuche Glacier Lake different from other glacier lakes in Nepal?
Kapuche is different from other glacier lakes in Nepal because of its elevation. Most glacier lakes lie above 4000m, and Kapuche Glacier Lake is the only one located at 2546, making it the world’s lowest glacier lake.
What is the itinerary of the Kapuche Lake Trek?
Generally, the Kapuche Lake trek is a 4-5 day journey. The itinerary begins with a drive to Pokhara from Kathmandu on the first day, Pokhara to Siklis on the second day, and Siklis to Hugu Goth on the third day. Hugu Goth to Kapuche Glacier and back to Siklis on the fourth day and Siklis to Pokhara then Kathmandu on the fifth day. However, trekkers can customize their itinerary whether they want to extend or shorten it.
What is the starting and ending point of the Kapuche Lake Trek?
Pokhara is the starting and ending point of the Kapuche Lake Trek. However, it is the starting and ending point of the journey, yet the trekking starts and ends at the Siklis village. Moreover, the trek passes through remote locations, meadows, and snowy mountains.
Do I need a permit for the Kapuche Glacier Lake Trek?
Yes, every trekking destination in Nepal requires a permit, including the Kapuche Glacier Lake trek. The trek requires an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. As the trek falls into the Annapurna region, home of the Annapurna Conservation Area, ACAP is necessary. TIMS is mandatory for most trekking areas.
How difficult is the Kapuche Lake Trek?
Kapuche Lake trek is an easy to moderate trek in Nepal. It is ideal for those who have never been trekking as it suits every age and fitness level. Yet, the journey passes through varied terrain, requiring good preparation.
Are accommodation options available on the trail to Kapuche?
Yes, there are vast options for accommodation on the trail to Kapuche Lake. Numerous lodging options are available along the trail, from lodges to basic teahouses to authentic homestays. Camping beside the Lake is also possible but requires more gear and equipment.
Which season is ideal for the Kapuche Glacier Lake Trek?
Autumn (September, October, and November) and Spring (March, April, and May) are ideal seasons for the Kapuche Glacier Lake Trek. The season provides mild temperatures with clear skies, good visibility, and stable weather, making it suitable for trekking in the area.
How much does the Kapuche Glacier Lake Trek cost?
The cost of Kapuche Glacier Lake depends on various factors, including the level of preferred luxury, the duration of the trek, the trek itinerary, and any special service requirements. Moreover, the size of the group dramatically determines the cost of the trek, as many trekking agencies in Nepal offer group discounts. On average, the price varies from USD 200 to 300.
