GANDAKI: The trekking route from Naula to Kori via Nauta, under the Kapuche-Kori trail in Madi Rural Municipality-1 of Kaski, is undergoing upgrades to enhance accessibility and promote trekking tourism.
The upgrade is being carried out with a contribution of Rs. 3 million from the Madame Khola Hydropower Project, in coordination with Madi Rural Municipality-1 and support from local stakeholders.
According to Devi Jung Gurung, Ward Chairperson of Madi-1 and coordinator of the stakeholders’ committee, Rs. 1 million has already been spent, while work worth an additional Rs. 2 million is currently in progress.
“The number of both domestic and international tourists trekking this route has been rising. We’re aiming to promote this area through tourism development,” said Chairperson Gurung.
The Kapuche-Kori trekking route is known for its unique features, particularly the trail connecting the Kapuche Glacier to Kori.
According to Krishna Gurung, Secretary of the Kapuche Tourism Entrepreneurs Sub-Committee, tourists visit the glacier not just to observe its beauty, but also to witness occasional avalanches.
Kapuche Lake, located at an altitude of 2,421 meters above sea level, is believed to have formed from an avalanche between Annapurna’s second and fourth peaks.
Spread over 10,440 square meters, it is claimed to be the world’s lowest-altitude glacier lake. The lake’s turquoise and green waters reflect the surrounding mountains and sunlight, creating a stunning natural spectacle.
In the local Gurung language, “Ka” means snow, “pu” means lump, and “che” means flat land—together forming “Kapuche.” Locals note that the name later evolved into Kafuche or Kapuche due to mispronunciation.
The area around the glacial lake is especially scenic during the monsoon when wildflowers bloom throughout the forested trails. Kori, another highlight of this trek, offers panoramic views of peaks such as Lamjung Himal, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna II and IV, and the Three Sisters.
The trek to Kori begins from the tourist village of Sikles and passes through Hugu, Naulakharka, and Nauta. It takes about nine hours of uphill trekking to reach Koridanda, situated at an altitude of 3,850 meters.
Krishna Gurung, who also operates Hotel Icefall, said the trail offers breathtaking views of avalanches cascading down the slopes of Annapurna and Lamjung Himal. The path also includes stretches of rhododendron forest that bloom spectacularly in spring.
Historically, the route was used by travelers moving between Manang and Lamjung and served as a rest stop and pasture for herders. It was also a trade route for transporting salt.
Currently, four hotels operate in Kori to accommodate trekkers. With increasing interest from domestic tourists, the area is becoming a popular destination for hiking and relaxation.
Gurung added that trekking was halted for a month due to landslide risks during Asar, but preparations are underway to resume it in Shrawan. Once the upgrades are complete, the trail is expected to offer even greater convenience and attract more visitors.
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