Kafuche, the lowest glacier lake of Nepal, lies at an altitude of 2,546 m from the sea level. One of the recently explored glacier lakes, covering an area of 1.2 km2, Kapuche lies in Kaski District of Gandaki Province.
Kafuche forms of three Gurung words: ‘ka’ meaning ‘Ice or Snow’, ‘fu’ meaning ‘breaking down’, and ‘che’ meaning ‘landing on the plain land’. Kafuche Lake gets such a unique name because the continuous avalanche forms it from Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal. The route and area of the lake are under the supervision of the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACA).
The specialty of the trek is it can be covered within a weekend. The trail is a virgin with less crowd of trekkers, full of adventures, and peaceful trails with only sounds of chirping birds. Though the trek is completely safe, the trail is through the jungle that adds a lot of thrills to you. You will find two suspension bridges on your way and few waterfalls.
The journey begins from Pokhara with three significant destinations: Sikles, Hugu Goth, and Kafuche, making it a three-day package. You can find a local bus that leaves to Sikles from Sabha Griha Chowk, Pokhara. Sikles, a homestay destination, with outstanding views of Annapurna IV, Annapurna II, and Lamjung Himal, is 20 km approx. from Pokhara. Locals from Pokhara come to Sikles for refreshments, campfire, local drinks, and cuisines. Kafuche trekkers usually stay in Sikles one night and start trekking the other day, early in the morning.
The trek begins from Sikles. For an average trekker, it requires 6 to 7 hours to reach Hugu, the second stop. The trail is filled with trees and has several narrow, steep sections. You cannot find any shops, so better carry enough energy bars and drinks to munch on your way. The trail can be risky during monsoon because of slippery mud.
Hugu Goth, having outstanding views of the snow-capped Annapurna, has a smaller number of households, and you will have to sleep in mats or tents. You can enjoy a campfire, average meals, and experience living in a local style of Gothale – the cowherd.
Early in the morning, you can begin your trek from Hugu by crossing a suspension bridge and reach Kafuche within 3 to 4 hours of average trekking. The trail is quite easy and with highs and lows.
Kafuche is a beautiful glacial lake, with the only risk of avalanche. The lake is covered with ice during the winter season. You can do Kayaking in the lake with the help of professionals. The lake receives an ample amount of sunshine, making the visit of the lake enjoyable.
You can stay another night in Sikles, and return to Pokhara through local bus or private jeep. The entire trip is budget-friendly and very cheap as compared to other trekking destinations from Pokhara. To experience less crowded and easy trek, in a short time, and less budget, Walk Through the Himalayas recommends you Sikles-Kafuche Trek!
