The Kori Danda Trek is a newly popularized, moderate 3 to 5-day journey in the Annapurna region, offering a spectacular panoramic viewpoint at 3,800 meters with breathtaking vistas of Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). This culturally immersive route centers on the traditional Gurung village of Sikles, one of Nepal's largest, and can be extended to include the unique, low-altitude Kapuche Glacier Lake (2,546m), famed for its frozen winter surface and dramatic avalanche scenery. Starting with a scenic jeep ride from Pokhara, the trek combines homestay experiences with lodge accommodations, providing an accessible yet rewarding adventure that showcases pristine Himalayan landscapes and rich local culture without the crowds of more established trails.
Short Kori Danda Trek From Pokhara
Kori Danda is a newly discovered viewpoint in the Annapurna Region of Nepal. Nestled amidst the stunning scenery of the Annapurna Region, Kori Danda offers breathtaking views of some of the world's most majestic mountains, including Annapurna itself, a renowned trekking destination. Trekking is an excellent way to explore and experience Nepal, regardless of your reason for visiting. While travel companies in Nepal promote this trek as a newly discovered route, it has actually been a popular trek in Nepal for quite some time. Before the development of other popular trekking routes like Ghorepani PoonhIll, Annapurna Base Camp, and the Annapurna Circuit in the 1970s and 1980s, Sikles was one of the few trekking options available. Kori Danda has recently gained popularity as a viewpoint due to its spectacular mountain views.
With an elevation of 3800 meters (12,467 feet), Kori Danda provides panoramic vistas of Lamjung Himal (6988 meters), Annapurna II (7937 meters), Machhapuchhare (Mount Fishtail, 6993 meters), and many more peaks. This trek offers an immersive experience of the Gurung culture as it passes through the beautiful indigenous Gurung village of Sikles, one of the largest Gurung villages in Nepal. The trek could also be aptly named the Sikles (Kori Danda) trek.
Traveling from Pokhara to Sikles involves a jeep drive of approximately 47 kilometers (30 miles). For those seeking an adventure close to home, this trip is ideal. The journey begins in Pokhara, a bustling city with all the necessary amenities. The first night is spent in a Gurung homestay in Sikles village, where traditional homes made of wood, bamboo, and mud bricks offer a unique cultural experience. From the second day onwards, accommodations shift to lodges and campsites along the trek.
While not an extreme trek, the Kori Danda trek is considered moderate, involving some climbing over rocky trails with limited vegetation for support. However, the effort is well worth it for the incredible vantage point it offers.
Another major highlight of the Short Kori Danda Trek is the Kapuche Glacier Lake, considered the lowest altitude glacial lake in the world, situated at an elevation of 2,546 meters above sea level. Unlike most glacial lakes located above 4,000 meters, Kapuche Glacier Lake is unique due to its lower altitude. During winter, the lake's temperature drops to zero, causing its surface to freeze. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the lake offers a serene environment. Occasionally, avalanches from Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal bring snow from their slopes down to the lake. The viral social media clip of an avalanche was captured at Kapuche Lake, demonstrating the lake's dramatic natural phenomena.
Words cannot capture the true essence of this trek; it is an experience that must be lived. Book now and become one of those who can share their own unique experiences with the world. Kori Danda Trek maps will be provided upon booking your trek with us.
What You’ll Explore
Itinerary
Pokhara Drive to Sikles
Sikles Trek to Tasha
Tasha Trek to Kori Danda
Kori Danda Trek Back to Tasha
Tasha Trek to Siklesh and Drive to Pokhara
The short Kori Danda trek isn't typically luxurious; the Sikles trek used to be one of the best camping routes in Nepal, so adding Kori Danda makes the experience even more beautiful. The 5-day Kori Danda Trek itinerary (excluding Kapuche Lake) is planned as a round trip from Pokhara. If you want to start the trek directly from Kathmandu, you will need an extra 2 to 3 days on the itinerary.




