Kapuche Glacier Lake
Destination
Nepal
Grade
Moderate
Start / End Point
Pokhara
Accommodation
Lodge / Tea House
Best Season
Oct–May
Meals Included
B / L / D
Activity
trek
Max. Altitude
2,546m
A short but spectacular trek to Nepal's lowest glacial lake, tucked beneath the Annapurna II massif, bright turquoise water and dramatic rock walls.
Highlights
- Turquoise-blue glacial lake
- Steep but rewarding ascent
- Views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal
- Off the mainstream Annapurna trail
Kapuche Glacier Lake Overview
The Kapuche Glacier Lake trek is one of the routes our team guides closest to home. We drive roughly forty kilometres north of Pokhara to Sikles, a Gurung village that still runs at its own pace, featuring terraced fields, an eco-museum, and the Chili Kohinbo temple. From there, we walk into the hills. The lake itself sits at around 2,450 metres, making it accessible to a much wider range of people than anything up the Annapurna Sanctuary or Manang valley.
The terrain between Sikles and the lake changes character quickly, starting on open ridges with clear views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and IV. We then drop into oak and rhododendron forest where the trail becomes rockier and narrower. After a final two-hour push along a rougher path, the lake appears: flat, cold, glacier-fed, and surrounded by high rock walls. If timed right, you may hear blocks of ice calving into the water. Many are surprised by how remote it feels after such a short approach.
Sikles village is worth your attention before leaving. The Gurung community here has worked hard to keep their heritage visible. The eco-museum has good exhibits on the Bon religion and local natural history. Homestay accommodation is available and provided homemade food is honest. This trek is a good choice for those wanting a real sense of the hills around Pokhara without committing to a week-long expedition.
Who this trek is for: Anyone based in Pokhara who wants a genuine mountain experience in 2-3 days will find this trek suitable. It is appropriate for families with older children, first-time trekkers, and repeat visitors who seek something off the main Annapurna routes. The lake sits at 2,546 metres, and there are no altitude concerns, as the trail involves no technical terrain. A moderate level of fitness is sufficient.
Note
We recommend you arrive at Kathmandu by 3 PM at least one day before the trek departure date for last-minute preparations.
Kapuche Glacier Lake
Nepal's lowest glacial lake, fed directly by meltwater off Annapurna II and surrounded by vertical rock walls. On quiet mornings you can hear ice calve into the still turquoise water. Accessible in two days from Pokhara with no altitude concern.
Day-to-Day Short Itinerary
- Day 1Pokhara to Sikles village
- Day 2Sikles village to Hugu
- Day 3Hugu to Kapuche Lake and back
- Day 4Hugu to Sikles village to Pokhara
Kapuche Glacier Lake Photos
Kapuche Glacier Lake Itinerary
- Day 1
Pokhara to Sikles village
Drive of 3 hours to Sikles village. Acclimatisation day exploring the largest Gurung settlement in Nepal. Breakfast at Pokhara, lunch at Sikles village. Camp at Sikles village.
- Day 2
Sikles village to Hugu
5 to 6 hours of trekking through forest and the upper Madi Khola gorge to the herder camp at Hugu. Breakfast at Sikles, lunch on the way. Camp at Hugu.
- Day 3
Hugu to Kapuche Lake and back
Breakfast at Hugu, then a 2-hour hike to Kapuche Lake. Time on the shore of the world's lowest-altitude glacier lake, then back to camp at Hugu. Lunch and camp at Hugu.
- Day 4
Hugu to Sikles village to Pokhara
Breakfast at Hugu, lunch at Sikles. 5 hours of hike back to Sikles, then a 3-hour drive back to Pokhara.
What is included in this trek package?
Accommodation
- Twin-sharing accommodation in tea houses or local lodges throughout the trek
- Hotel accommodation on nights before and after the trek where applicable (breakfast included)
Meals & Drinking Water
- All standard meals on the trail (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) with one hot drink per meal
- Purified drinking water throughout the trek (filter or purification tablets)
- Seasonal fruits when available
Transportation
- All ground transfers by private or shared tourist vehicle as per the itinerary
- Domestic flights where explicitly noted in the itinerary
Guide and Staff
- Experienced, first-aid trained, government-licensed, English-speaking lead guide
- Assistant guide for groups of 7 or more
- One porter per two trekkers for carrying main luggage (up to 10 kg per person)
- Wages, accommodation, meals, gear, and insurance for all trek staff
Permits
- All required trekking permits and conservation-area fees for the route
- TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card where applicable
- All permit paperwork arranged before the trek starts
Safety and Support
- Comprehensive first aid kit including pulse oximeter for daily altitude checks
- Emergency oxygen on treks above 4,000m
- 24/7 operational support from our Pokhara office
- Trip completion certificate
What is excluded in this trek package?
Flights & Visa
- International flights and airport departure tax
- Nepal entry visa (USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, USD 125 for 90 days, on arrival at Kathmandu airport)
Insurance & Personal Gear
- Travel insurance with high-altitude and emergency helicopter evacuation coverage (mandatory)
- Personal trekking gear, clothing and footwear
Meals Outside the Trail
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu or Pokhara before and after the trek
- Any beverages including alcoholic drinks, bottled and boiled water
Other
- Tips for trekking staff and drivers (recommended but not included)
- Hot showers, WiFi, and charging fees at tea houses
- Any personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, or souvenirs
- Any additional costs caused by natural disasters, political disturbances, or flight delays
- Any items not explicitly listed in the Price Includes section
Equipment Checklist
The following is a solid starting point for most multi-day treks we run. Adjust for the season and the maximum altitude of your specific route. Shorter, lower-altitude hikes need far less than this full list. For the key insulation items (down jacket and four-season sleeping bag) we offer rental in Kathmandu or Pokhara for USD 35 each.
General
- Four-season (zero degree) sleeping bag (rental available: USD 35)
- Insulated down jacket (rental available: USD 35)
- Daypack, 30 to 45 litres, with rain cover
- Sleeping bag liner
Head & Face
- Sun hat or cap
- Beanie or knitted hat for colder mornings and evenings
- Buff or neck gaiter
- Sunglasses with full UV protection
- Headlamp with spare batteries
Upper Body
- Technical base layer shirts, two
- Technical long-sleeve shirts, two
- Fleece or synthetic mid-layer
- Waterproof and windproof shell jacket
Lower Body
- Hiking pants, two pairs
- Technical base-layer leggings for cold mornings
- Waterproof or windproof outer shell pants
- Comfortable pants for evenings in the teahouse
Hands
- Lightweight liner gloves
- Insulated outer gloves for high altitude or winter conditions
Feet
- Waterproof trekking boots with ankle support, broken in before the trip
- Hiking socks, three to five pairs
- Liner socks if prone to blisters
- Comfortable shoes or sandals for evenings
- Microspikes recommended November to March on routes above 4,000m
First Aid & Medications
- Personal prescription medications
- SPF 50+ sunscreen and SPF lip balm
- Blister care, plasters, and antiseptic cream
- Electrolyte sachets or tablets
- Note: our guides carry a comprehensive group first aid kit with pulse oximeter
Other Essentials
- Passport, two passport-sized photos, and photocopies of travel documents
- One-litre reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
- Trekking poles (strongly recommended)
- Small toiletry kit, quick-dry towel, and toilet paper
- High-protein snacks for the trail (bars, nuts)
- Waterproof dry bag for documents and electronics
Important Information
- We provide a free duffel bag at your pre-trip meeting, used for luggage carried by the porter. The duffel stays yours afterwards.
- One porter is assigned per two trekkers. The duffel bag should weigh no more than 10 kg / 22 lbs per person.
- Always carry your own daypack with essentials: cash, documents, water, camera, rain gear.
- Non-trekking luggage can be stored securely at your hotel in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
- Down jacket and four-season sleeping bag are available for rent at USD 35 each. Loss or damage reimbursement is USD 100 per item.
Kapuche Glacier Lake Package Information
Trip Information
Guide & Porter Services
Every trek is led by a government-licensed, English-speaking lead guide who is also trained in first aid and high-altitude emergency response. For groups of seven or more we add an assistant guide. Porters are assigned one per two trekkers, each carrying up to 10 kg of your main luggage so you only carry a daypack. All staff wages, accommodation, meals, gear, and insurance are fully covered in the package price.
Accommodation Bookings
We pre-book every night's accommodation before you start, so you never arrive at a full teahouse during peak season. Nights before and after the trek are in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu or Pokhara with breakfast included. On the trail you stay in tea houses or local lodges on a twin-sharing basis, with the best available rooms in each village. Private rooms and en-suite bathrooms are available where offered, usually at lower altitudes.
Transportation Arrangements
All ground transfers are arranged by private or shared tourist vehicles as specified in the itinerary. Airport pick-up and drop-off are included. Where a domestic flight is required (for example, Kathmandu to Lukla for Everest, or Jomsom to Pokhara for Mustang routes), the round-trip fare is covered in the package. We monitor flight and road conditions daily and adjust logistics proactively when weather or landslides affect the schedule.
Equipment Rental
A four-season sleeping bag and an insulated down jacket can be rented in Kathmandu or Pokhara at USD 35 per item for the duration of the trek. Trekking poles, microspikes, and additional layers are also available on request. We supply a 75-litre duffel bag for you to keep at your pre-trip briefing. A full packing checklist is sent after you book so you can pack with confidence.
Insurance Requirements
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for every trek we operate. Your policy must explicitly cover trekking at the maximum altitude of your route and include emergency helicopter evacuation, medical treatment, and trip cancellation. Please send us a copy of your policy at least two weeks before departure. We cannot start the trek without confirmation of valid coverage — this is for your safety and ours.
Difficulty & Preparation
The Kapuche Glacier Lake trek is rated Easy-Moderate. The jeep drive to Sikles is long and bumpy on a rough road, often harder on the body than the walking itself. The trail from Sikles to Hugu Goth features a steady gradient with no technical sections, though the forest floor can be slippery after rain. The final push from Hugu to the lake involves rougher terrain and a steeper approach along a stream gorge.
The maximum altitude of around 2,546 metres is well below the threshold where altitude sickness becomes a concern for most. Walking times are 5-6 hours on the main trekking day, manageable for anyone with basic fitness. Good footwear with ankle support is recommended for the rocky lake approach, and trekking poles help on the descent. The trail is not marked or maintained to the standard of the main Annapurna routes, so a local guide familiar with this specific trail is strongly advised.
Preparation should focus on cardiovascular endurance for 5-6 hours of walking per day. Your footwear needs to be broken in before you arrive, and ankle support is crucial on this route. There is no phone signal beyond Sikles, so inform someone of your plans before leaving Pokhara. Simple first aid supplies should be in your pack: blister treatments, anti-diarrheal medication, and basic pain relief. Start early each day, eat and drink properly, and don't rush the lake approach.
Permits Required
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is needed, costing NPR 3,000 for foreigners and NPR 100 for SAARC nationals per person. This permit is required for the entire Annapurna Conservation Area and can be purchased at the ACAP office or Nepal Tourism Board counter in Pokhara.
A TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System) is also required, costing NPR 2,000 for independent trekkers and NPR 1,000 for groups. This card is available at Nepal Tourism Board offices in Pokhara and Kathmandu. Our team handles all permit paperwork.
Altitude & Acclimatisation
Kapuche Glacier Lake sits at approximately 2,546 metres, a comfortable altitude for nearly all trekkers. It is unlikely to experience altitude-related symptoms unless arriving in Nepal very recently and not yet acclimated. The altitude gain from Pokhara to the lake, just under 1,700 metres, happens gradually over the jeep ride and two days of walking, with no rapid ascent to trigger acute mountain sickness. If experiencing discomfort on the lake approach, rest and drink water. Symptoms should pass within an hour at this altitude.
Food & Accommodation
Accommodation in Sikles is primarily homestay-style, with local Gurung families providing beds and home-cooked meals. The experience is genuine, featuring shared bathrooms and wooden bed frames. A few basic lodges operate in the village. Hugu Goth has limited accommodation, typically a simple shelter used by herders, so most itineraries keep Sikles as the overnight base. Pack your lunch and snacks for the lake day as there are no teahouses or food resupply points between Hugu and Kapuche Lake. Drinking water should be treated or boiled.
What to Pack
This is a short, relatively low-altitude trek, so pack light. A 20-30 litre daypack is sufficient once the porter or jeep carries the main bag to Sikles. Essential items include broken-in hiking boots with ankle support, a waterproof outer layer due to unpredictable weather, sunscreen, a hat for sun protection, a fleece or midlayer for evenings, a refillable water bottle or filter, and snacks for the trail. Homestay accommodation in Sikles provides blankets, so a sleeping bag liner is sufficient unless visiting in winter, when a sleeping bag is advisable. Carry enough water and food for the entire day.
Why Book With 6K Nepal Treks
Licensed & Insured
Registered with Nepal Tourism Board, TAAN and NMA. Fully insured for trekking, climbing, and high-altitude emergencies.
Expert Local Guides
Every trek is led by a licensed, first-aid trained Sherpa or Gurung guide, born and raised in these mountains.
Safety First
Pulse oximeter and emergency oxygen carried on all high-altitude treks. Helicopter evacuation protocol on standby.
Small Groups
Maximum 12 trekkers per group. One porter per two guests. You are a person, not a tour number.
Fair & Transparent Pricing
No hidden fees. Permits, guides, porters and taxes are all included and itemised in your quote.
Responsible Travel
Fair wages for all staff, eco-friendly practices on the trail, and direct support for the mountain communities we work with.
Kapuche Glacier Lake Reviews
4.9★ from 90+ Google Reviews
Trekkers guided from 30+ countries.
“Riding from Pokhara to Upper Mustang over five unforgettable days with Rohit was a true adventure in every sense of the word. As an experienced adventure motorbike rider, including demanding desert expeditions, I can say with absolute confidence that Rohit is a phenomenal rider and an exceptional tour guide. He masters the terrain, understands the mountains, and rides with calm authority and precision. I highly recommend Rohit and his company.”
Jacob Mato ★
Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour · Mar 2026
“Rohit was an excellent guide for my Khopra Ridge trek. From the very first day, he was professional, friendly, and always attentive. He knows the trail extremely well and made sure the pace was comfortable while still keeping good time each day. What I really appreciated was how caring and patient he was, especially on long uphill sections and in changing weather. I highly recommend Rohit to anyone planning the Khopra Ridge trek or any trek in Nepal.”
Birendra T Xettri ★
Khopra Ridge Trek · Mar 2026
“My first trek with Rohit, who is extremely knowledgeable. He is the mountain man of Nepal. His deep love for the mountains means he wants to give his trekkers the best experience, share his stories but above all make sure you are feeling safe, comfortable and able to complete the trek. We did Mardi Himal Trek, blessed with the weather. Do not hesitate to book with Rohit, I will be back again. Namaste”
Ange ★
Mardi Himal Trek · Jan 2026
“This was my second trek with Rohit, I first did the Manaslu Circuit with him a while ago and came back for Mardi Himal this time. Both experiences were absolutely fantastic. Rohit is professional, kind, and really knows the mountains. He always makes sure you're safe, comfortable, and enjoying yourself. He takes care of all the logistics, finds great tea houses, and adjusts the pace perfectly for everyone. Wouldn't trek in Nepal with anyone else.”
Peter Murphy ★
Manaslu Circuit + Mardi Himal · Jan 2026
“Rohit is a young, energetic, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic guide. He took us up to Annapurna Base Camp. We had bad weather, so Rohit decided to wait a day when other guides kept going up. Due to avalanche-risk, this was the obviously the best decision. Rohit always made sure that we felt comfortable and always in a good mood. We had fun, lots of laughter and great stories. Thanks to Rohit we will never forget: Dahl Baht Power 24 Hour!”
Sander Wolters ★
Annapurna Base Camp · 2025
“Without doubt the best guide in the world... Every part of our trip was a dream. From start to finish Rohit and his team had prepared everything to perfection. I cannot recommend this young man enough, so professional, so fun and so considerate. Thank you so much for making our time so special.”
Ryan Chandler ★
Himalayan Trek · Oct 2025
“Just returned from completing a 2 day trek with Rohit as our guide to Kapuche Glacier lake. It was a challenging but fantastic experience thanks to his professional skills his passion for the mountains and his outgoing and friendly personality. He was always there to guide and motivate us even up the never ending stairs!! His support and sense of humour got us safely to our destination and back again. If we return to Nepal we will definitely meet again.”
Karen Smith ★
Kapuche Glacier Lake · 2025
“We did Austrian Basecamp with Rohit. I thought it was going to be a short and predictable trek but I was surely wrong. We went up and stayed for the night and on the next day we did a long return going through some of the most stunning views I've ever seen in my 37 years of life. I don't think that would have been possible without the guidance of Rohit. Also it's really nice to share with him, he is friendly, respectful and chill. And he knows everything about Nepal, its mountains and its flora and fauna.”
Arturo Cuevillas ★
Australian Camp Trek · Jan 2026
“I recently embarked on the Dhampus-Pothana-Australia Camp trek with Rohit, and it was an experience I'll cherish forever. From the very beginning, Rohit's easygoing nature and ability to connect made the journey incredibly enjoyable. Our conversations ranged from deep discussions about spirituality, mountains, and cultures to sharing our mutual love for rock and metal music. Overall, trekking with Rohit was an incredible experience. His warmth, knowledge, and passion for the mountains truly enhanced the trip.”
Fahad Rahman ★
Dhampus-Pothana-Australian Camp · 2025
“Undertook Annapurna Base Camp Trek along with Rohit in first week of April 2025. His detailed knowledge and experience of the terrain and weather helped us having an awesome experience. He was accommodative of our needs and change in plans. Two days later we undertook a motorbike ride upto Muktinath in Mustang Valley. Again his energy, knowledge and experience in the area resulted in us having a superb n memorable time.”
Prateek Johari ★
Annapurna Base Camp + Mustang · Jul 2025
“Rohit was our guide on the 12 day Manaslu circuit trek. The trek was great, nice scenery, not too hard and Rohit took good care of making sure we had a place to sleep every night, as teahouses were filling up quickly because of high season. Rohit is a cheerful guy, social and he takes good care of his guests. With Rohit you are definitely in good company.”
Sara Coessens ★
Manaslu Circuit Trek · 2025
“Had an amazing 9 day Annapurna Base Camp Sanctuary Trek this June with Rohit and his team. His fantastic organisation, hosting, knowledge and professionalism makes Rohit a fabulous choice of guide. Visiting Nepal and especially the Himalayas is a life changing experience and I will never forget it.”
Rupert Potts ★
Annapurna Base Camp · Sep 2025
“Rohit (Haku) was one of the many blessings we received from Nepal. He is not only a great guide who knows how to make trips and expeditions fun and flowy. He is also an incredibly fun human to be around. It was delightful to spend some days riding to the temple of Muktinath with him. Jamming, and discovering a new young friend, full of kindness, values and knowledge.”
David Sanchez ★
Muktinath Motorbike Tour · 2025
“I called Rohit just before 8hrs of starting our Khumai Danda trek. Even after being tired he said let's meet in morning at 6am. He knows English, Hindi, French and Nepali. He not only guided the trek route but made the whole stretch very memorable and interesting. We told stories to each other. He became more like a friend. It was complete fun trekking with Rohit. And yes, Rohit has his own band. Quite an interesting guy.”
Shreyassh Verma ★
Khumai Danda Trek · 2024
“Had an amazing trek, Rohit is a perfect guide especially when dealing with the unpredictability of the trek, someone who's very easy going and social however extremely professional and even other guides would come to him for advice. 100/10”
Louis Anderson ★
Himalayan Trek · 2024
“Rohit is the guy to go trekking with! He knows a lot and can tell you a lot about life in the mountains but also about his amazing family. This drummer of a band can show you around, but also knows that silence in walking is good when doing a hike. Super chill and easy going.”
Rutger Dankelman ★
Himalayan Trek · 2024
“We had an amazing time with Rohit and Yuddha. Rohit was quick to reply when planning the trip and clearly explained the route options, and on the trip his enthusiasm and knowledge were very appreciated. He seems to know all the best tea houses for food too.”
Ben Ashby ★
Himalayan Trek · 2024
“What an amazing experience! Highly recommend Rohit to guide you through the Himalayas. Nothing was too much trouble for him and his team and they went out of their way to ensure we had an unforgettable trip. And most importantly. SO MUCH FUN!!!”
Richard Hilliard ★
Himalayan Trek · Sep 2025
“Just had the most fantastic trek with Rohit and his team. An incredible experience that has created amazing memories and hit the reset button for me in such a positive way. Thank you Rohit.. Namaste”
Jonathan Marriott ★
Himalayan Trek · Sep 2025
“Our experience in Nepal was nothing short of extraordinary, thanks to our incredible friend. He truly is a superman! From the very beginning, the tour was meticulously personalized to cater to our every need and interest, ensuring that we always had exciting activities to look forward to.”
Minhaj Ul Islam ★
Nepal Tour · 2025
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