Trekking to Hidden Beauty: Sikles and Kafuche Ice Lake Journey

My trekking experience in Sikles and Kafuche Ice Lake was unforgettable. I recommend this trek to all adventure seekers and nature lovers who want to explore the hidden beauty of Nepal.

As a lover of adventure and nature, I have always been fascinated by the beauty of Nepal's Annapurna range. After much research, I decided to embark on a trek to Sikles and Kaphuche Ice Lake. It was a three-day trek, and my itinerary was planned accordingly.

On day one, I started my journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara, the starting point of the trek. From Amar Singh Chowk, I reached Kahu Khola, where I found a vehicle for Sikles. The public bus was available until 2 PM (in summer) and 1 PM (in winter), leaving after every hour. The road condition was average, but the beautiful villages like Taprang, Chipli Gaun, and Khilang that I passed on the way were breathtaking.

After reaching Sikles, I checked into a cozy hotel for the night. The next morning, I went on a village tour and explored the culture, architecture, and traditions of the Gurung community. I hiked up to Sikles Park and Rising Dada to witness the mesmerizing view of the Annapurna range. I also visited the village museum and climbed up the view tower for a panoramic view of the entire village.

Things to do in Sikles:

• Hike up to Sikles Park and Rising Dada, which will take around 30 minutes for average hikers, from where we can see the mesmerizing view of Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, and other mountains as well.
• Explore a village tour and observe culture, village architecture, and traditions. People are very friendly and helpful at the same time.
• Visit the village museum.
• Climb the view tower for the whole village view.

On the same day, I started my trek towards Hugu (Goth Ghar). The six-hour hike was not very difficult but a little technical, and it passed through a narrow and steep path along the river that flows from Kaphuche Lake. Our guide walked in front with his Khukuri, clearing the bushes and making the way clear. We witnessed an amazing waterfall halfway through the route and took a rest there.

Once we reached Hugu, we found an empty Goth Ghar, which is usually used by shepherds during the rainy season. We had to arrange everything, including food and lodging, for ourselves. Thankfully, proper sleeping bags and mats were available for the travellers at Rs. 150 per head.

On the third day, we woke up early in the morning and headed towards Kafuche Lake. It was an exciting but challenging journey, and we had to be back in Sikles by the end of the day. The trek was worth it, as we were greeted with a stunning view of the lake, surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

Overall, my trekking experience in Sikles and Kafuche Ice Lake was unforgettable. The beautiful indigenous Gurung village, the rich culture and tradition of the community, the challenging yet rewarding trek, and the breathtaking view of the Annapurna range made this trip a lifetime memory. I recommend this trek to all adventure seekers and nature lovers who want to explore the hidden beauty of Nepal.

Itinerary :

Day 1: Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Sikles

Day 2: Sikles-Hugu (Goth Ghar)

Day 3: Hugu, Ice Lake, and Sikles

Day 4: Sikles to Pokhara (even Kathmandu)

Day 5: Pokhara to Kathmandu

Some of the hotels and lodges are listed below with their contact details, which might be helpful to you as well:

Additional Information:

• Public Bus Fare: Rs. 300 per head
• Room charge per night: Rs 300–Rs 500 (3–4 people capacity room)
• Dal/Bhat Charges per Time: Rs 350 with Chicken

A local guide is compulsory from Sikles to Kafuche as the route is new to travelers, and the guide charge is Rs 1500 per day; the price may vary depending on the local guide available.

photo credit: travellingnepaltips

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