Kapuche Glacier Lake Trek

Destination
Nepal
Activity
Trekking
Accomodation
Homestay, Teahouse
Region
Annapurna Region
Distance
32 km
Start / End Point
Pokhara/Pokhara
Duration
5 Nights 6 Days
Max. Altitude
2450 m/ 8058 ft
Meals Included
Breakfast
Group Size
1-30
Nature of Trek
Homestay and Tea house trek
Best Season
March-May August-November
Trip Code
AT-KLT
Activity Per Day
6-7 hrs
Transporation
Jeep / Bus
Grade
Moderate

Overview

Kapuche Lake trek is one of the best emerging trekking routes in Nepal. Along with a unique location and pristine natural presence, the path is remote and less crowded than other trails. So, if you are looking for a trekking route that offers grand scenery, an isolated lifestyle, and a rarely hiked trail, then Kaphuche has much to offer. The Lowest Glacier Lake lies to the northeast of Sikles Kaski. It is a short trek that begins at Pokhara and goes through several villages and hills. Although the trekking route was recently discovered and opened for visitors, it has been slowly getting popularity due to its natural beauty and unique trekking experience.

Why will you love Kapuche Lake Trek?
    • A clear and up-close view of the Annapurna II, 26041 ft. Annapurna IV (24690 ft) and Lamjung Himal (22911 ft). 
    • The largest Gurung community in Nepal is known for its unique culture, customs, and traditions. You will be well-acquainted with Sikles village, its culture, and its lifestyle.
    • The area around the lake is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including lush forests and alpine meadows.
    • Explore the lowest-altitude glacier lake in Nepal. 
    • Hike through verdant vegetation, rhododendron forest, and terraced fields.
    • An easy hike that people of all ages can do.

Discover the Lifestyle in Some Remote villages of Nepal

The Kapuche Glacier lake is located at an altitude of 2546 meters from sea level. It lies inside the Gurung Village of Sikles in the Kaski district in the Annapurna region. So, we can combine this trek with Sikles Village Trek. Kapuche Glacier Lake is claimed to be the lowest-elevation glacier lake in the world. The temperature of the lake can reach sub-zero during winter, and the surface can turn into ice. The 0.12 Km2 Lake is about 40 meters deep.

The word Kapuche is a portmanteau of the words “Ka,” which means snow or ice, “Pu,” which means breaking down and sliding, and “Che,” which means landing on flat land. Essentially, ‘Kapuche” means fallen ice that has settled on a valley, which forms the glacial lake.

The lake has a calm environment as it is situated amongst snow-capped mountains. There are also occasional avalanches that bring snow from the slopes to the lake. The lake is in a calm environment beneath the high mountains. However, there is no provision for boating, as it is not appropriately explored.

Alternate Itinerary of Kapuche Glacier Lake 

Day 1: Drive to Armala and trek to Thak Village via Atighar Mauja, 5-6 hours. Overnight at Thak Village.

Day 2: Trek to Sikles Village via Tara Hill Top, 8 hours.

Day 3: Trek to Hugu Goth, 5-6 hours. Overnight at Hugu Goth

Day 4: Hike to Kaphuche Lake and return to Hugu Goth. Overnight at Hugu Goth.

Day 5: Trek to Sikles, 4-5 hours and drive back to Pokhara.

The extended Kapuche lake itinerary starts from Pokhara Deep, and we pass human settlements like Aatighar Mauja, Thak, Tara Hill, Sikles, and Hugu. We spend a night each in Thak village, Tara Hill Top, and Sikles. Moreover, we spend two nights in Hugu. We can choose between a lodge stay, homestay, and outdoor camping. Among these places, Tara Hill Top offers the best scenic view. We can visit caves and museums, pass through suspension bridges and witness some magnificent views.

This trek route is one of the least traveled trails. So, you will enjoy this trek without being disturbed by the crowd. This trek is best to do during Autumn and Spring.

Why is Kapuche called the Lowest glacier lake in the world?

Before we begin explaining to you why Kapuche is considered the Lowest glacier lake in the world, let's learn a bit about glacier lakes:

Glacial Lakes Short Overview:
Glacial Lakes Short Overview: A glacier lake is typically formed when it erodes the land and then melts, filling the hole or space it has created. The glacier lakes are formed over hundreds of years after glaciers have eroded and melted. Most of these lakes are high in the mountains, often thousands of meters above sea level. 
However, Kapuche Glacier Lake starkly contrasts this pattern, making it an intriguing subject for exploration and study. 

Kapuche Glacier Lake: A Detailed Overview:
Kapuche Glacier Lake, nestled within the diverse landscapes of Nepal, has recently emerged as a significant point of interest among global travelers and environmentalists alike. Uniquely positioned at the lower reaches of the glacial line, Kapuche Lake stands out among its lofty counterparts as the world's lowest glacier lake. Its exceptional positioning and charm offer invaluable insights into the dynamic interplay between climate, geology, and ecosystems.

But why does the title "lowest glacier lake" hold significance? Simply put, the answer lies in the unique challenges and opportunities this presents. The lake is in the Madi Rural Municipality, Sikles Kaski, Nepal, situated at an altitude of around 2,500 meters, is nestled at the foot of two remarkable mountains: Annapurna II, towering at 7,937 meters (26,040 feet) and ranked as the 16th highest mountain in the world, and Lamjung Himal, which reaches an impressive 6,983 meters (22,910 feet). These majestic peaks form a breathtaking backdrop for the lake, contributing to its allure and splendor. All the collected snow from the surrounding peaks gradually flows through the glacier, eventually forming the lake. This natural phenomenon showcases how the mountains and glaciers shape the landscape, channeling the life-giving waters that sustain the ecosystem below.

While one may argue Kapuche isn't the Lowest glacier lake in the world, and explain Lake Louise, or Bow Lake in Canada, are Lower than Kapuche. However, nearby glaciers heavily influence these lakes, so they receive glacial meltwater. Still, they don't fit the strictest definition of a glacial lake- a lake currently being fed by the meltwater of a glacier and/or one formed in a depression carved out by a glacier.

Moreover, the lakes like Jökulsárlón in Iceland or Tasman Lake in New Zealand are directly formed by retreating glaciers and are filled by glacial meltwater, making them "true" glacial lakes. Still, the absence of higher glacial lakes in the region makes them less significant. While the highest glacier lake in Neweland is Lake Tasman, 740 meters (2,428 feet), the highest glacier itself in Iceland is 910m. 

So, even considering the altitude of glacier lakes when people refer to Kapuche Lake as the "lowest glacial lake," they are focusing on its unique attributes, such as it being a relatively newly formed lake due to the recent retreat of the Kapuche glacier, and the fact that it's found in a region (the Himalayas) known for high-altitude glacial lakes.

Kapuche Glacier Lake's relatively low elevation indicates different climatic conditions than higher glacier lakes. These varying conditions can provide a wealth of knowledge on the effects of climate change and glacial dynamics at lower altitudes, contributing to more comprehensive environmental studies.

Furthermore, Kapuche Lake is situated in such a unique location that makes it easier for those who wish to enjoy the journey to the world’s lowest glacier lake as tourists or those who aim to prevent the effects of global warming as researchers. Additionally, due to the presence of Kapuche Lake at such a low altitude, people can enjoy the beauty of a glacier lake without going too far into hazardous, high-altitude regions.

At the same time, the "lowest" glacier lake faces unique challenges. As global warming intensifies, lower-lying glaciers, like the one feeding Kapuche Lake, are especially vulnerable. Understanding the changes happening here could provide critical insights into the broader impact of climate change on glacier-fed ecosystems.

Kapuche Glacier Lake Trek Photo

Kapuche Lake Trek Itinerary

  1. day 1

    Arrival at Kathmandu and transfer to hotel

  2. day 2

    Fly or Drive to Pokhara

  3. day 3

    Drive from Pokhara to Sikles village

  4. day 4

    Trek from Sikles to Hugu Goth

  5. day 5

    Trek to Kapuche Lake (Virgin Ice Lake), Explore and back to Hugu Goth.

  6. day 6

    Trek to Sikles and back to Pokhara

Kapuche Lake Trek Map and Altitude Graph

everest base camp trek map

WHAT’S INCLUDED

    • Tea House and Lodge accommodation during the trek.
    • All meals, during the trek. You can choose dishes from the lodge menu which mostly includes options as follows:
      • Breakfast: Cereal, Porridge, rice pudding, egg dish with bread and toast, bread with jam and honey, Pancakes with jam and honey, with tea or coffee.
      • Lunch Items: Dal Bhat (mostly recommended), noodles soup, fried noodles, momo, spaghetti chapati, Spring roll, macron,  sizzlers, swiss rosti, pizza, veg curry with plain rice, Tibetan Momo, Thukpa, Thenthuk, french fry, fry potato, boil potato and much more.
      • Dinner: Mostly same as lunch items but may vary in some hotels.
      • Note: The menu also depends on the Teahouse or Hotel, so the food items may vary.
    • Jeep Transportation from Pokhara to Sikles and Sikles to Pokhara. 
    • Professional English-speaking, Eco Trained trekking guide his meals, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, medicine, transportation, etc.
    • Porter service (2 trekkers: 1 porter).
    • Sleeping Bag and Trekking pole if needed. 
    • ACAP permit and TIMS card. 
    • All government and local taxes

WHAT'S EXCLUDED

  •  Other transportation except Included in the section.
  • Personal expenses (bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.).
  • Additional costs or delays caused by management out of control like landscape, bad weather conditions, in case of itinerary modification with a view to a safety concern, illness, change of government policy, political instability raises strike, moment, etc.
  • Any other expenses which are not mentioned in including section.

Note:

You can include porter ( carries upto 20 kg ), with an extra cost of $ 25 per day.

Can I go on the Kapuche trek without a guide?

This newly opened trekking route needs to be explored adequately, and the trail is primarily off-the-beaten-track. There need to be more signposts that can be used to identify the right path for the lake. For trekkers with a guide, finding a way, accommodations, and good food services can be more manageable. Additionally, the lake has frequent avalanches, creating unforeseen problems for the trekkers. So, we recommend you go on the Kapuche glacier lake trek with an experienced guide.

How difficult is the Kaphuche glacier lake route?

The trek route mostly goes through villages, grasslands, and small hills. It also has a maximum elevation of 2814m, which makes it a moderate-height trekking trail. As such, it is a relatively easy trekking route for people of all ages.

How much does it cost for a Nepali citizen?

For a Nepali citizen, the cost of the Kapuche Lake trek is customizable according to the need of the customers and time requirements. We have ongoing departures for the trek every week, and we are open to negotiating provisions and the associated costs for the trek.

You decide what is best and we’ll take care of the rest

  • The itinerary mentioned is a standard guideline. It can be fully customized according to your needs, requirements, and availability.
  • The cost of the trek can also be changed according to your group size, needs, and time boundary.
  • You can easily add additional activities to the Itinerary. You just have to let us know before confirming the trip.
  • This trip can also start from  Kathmandu. You have to let us know if you want to begin there. In that case, the Itinerary will extend by a few days. Consequently, the cost will also increase.
  • The addition or removal of activities will increase or decrease the cost of the trip respectively. This will be done through mutual understanding between the agency and the client(s).

Written by: Mohan Bhandari

1: When is the best time to travel there?
This trek is done all year round, however, months from March to May and October to December are the optimum time to hike. From March to May, the hills and forests are covered by greenery and blooming Rhododendrons.
From October to December, the weathers are clear with no rainfall and fog covering the Himalayas. So, this time of the year portrays the best mesmerizing view of mountains and landscapes. Moreover, the lake remains frozen during winter time.

2: What about food and accommodations?
This trek grants a chance to savor the typical Gurung cuisine like Dhedo and Rotis. The nights are usually spent in community homestays. The guest has a choice to stay individually in a single room or share it with others. Overall, this trek offers satisfying food and lodging.
If we decide to camp, then the food should be taken with us. Usually, dry foods are preferable for camping.

3: Is this trek possible with children?
This trek is one of the easiest treks. Also, the paths are not physically demanding and the likelihood of altitude sickness almost dwindles to zero so, the children as well as the older people can easily conquer this trek. Also, this trek can be done with all the family members together. This place embraces the visitors with a great view of the Himalayas, wildlife, lush forest and blooming Rhododendrons. So, it can pacify the thirst of curious children's minds.

4: Do I need any permits for this trek?
You need an ( Annapurna Conservation Area Project ) ACAP permit to enter this region. The cost of the permit is  US $ 30 per person including tax and service charge

5: Can we camp beside the lake?
Yes, we are allowed to camp beside the lake but the gears are only available in Hugu Goth or you have to carry them all the way from Pokhara. However, staying in a tent is only applicable during summer because the lake remains frozen during winter.

Join Upcoming Trips

Inquire Now to get the best deals or share with friends to plan together. All trips are group based. For custom trips, contact us.

Departure Date Price Trip Status
4 Days2024-03-01 - 2024-03-04 USD 450 USD 350 save USD 100 Guaranteed Book Now
4 Days2024-03-06 - 2024-03-09 USD 450 USD 350 save USD 100 Guaranteed Book Now
4 Days2024-03-15 - 2024-03-19 USD 450 USD 350 save USD 100 Guaranteed Book Now
4 Days2024-03-25 - 2023-03-29 USD 450 USD 350 save USD 100 Guaranteed Book Now

Kapuche Glacier Lake Trek Company Reviews

2023-01-10

Glad I stopped here, Look no further !!

Mohan, without you our trekking trip would have failed. You truly helped us in everything.. before, after and also during.. when we nearly missed our flight from Kathmandu, Mohan and his yonger ambitious brother arranged for us a last minute trip to Kathmandu with a brand new car ;) and we were super thankful. You’ve made a friend Mohan. I wish you the best of luck !!

Miri Y.

Related Trips

Group
from $ 2100 $ 1950 pp

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek: Strenuous Trek in Nepal - 17 Nights 18 Days

Grade

strenuous

Duration

17 Nights 18 Days

Activity

Trekking
Group
from $ 1450 $ 1200 pp

Short Everest Base Camp Trek - 10 Nights 11 Days

Grade

Moderate

Duration

10 Nights 11 Days

Activity

Trekking
Group
from $ 1600 $ 1400 pp

Upper Mustang Trek - 11 Nights 12 days

Grade

Adventurous

Duration

11 Nights 12 days

Activity

Trekking
Group
from $ 800 $ 650 pp

Gosaikunda Lake Trek: A Place of Religious Prominence - 7 nights 8 days

Grade

Strenuous

Duration

7 nights 8 days

Activity

Trekking

We are associated with:

  • The logo of the Nepal Tourism Board of Nepal
  • Coat of Arms of Nepal
  • North Nepal Trek pvt. ltd is authorised from Nepal Mountain Academy.