Max. Elevation
Kori Ridge to Namun La Pass Trek- sikless Village Annapurna
Overview
A Scenic Beginning Near the Majestic Annapurnas
Your adventure begins with incredible views of the southern face of the Annapurna range. Not far from the iconic Machapuchare (Fishtail Peak), the trail immediately immerses you in a world of dramatic ridgelines, lush forests, and traditional Gurung settlements. The Kori viewpoint is one of the region’s most beautiful vantage points, offering wide-angle panoramas of Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, Machapuchare, and the surrounding valleys.
This viewpoint is still relatively unknown to many mainstream trekkers, which makes it ideal for travelers who want to experience the raw beauty of the Himalayas without the crowds.
Following a Unique Route at the Foot of Lamjung Himal
From Kori, the route heads deeper into the untouched heart of the Annapurna region. You will trek along a rare trail that passes through high alpine meadows, rhododendron forests, and remote pasturelands used seasonally by local shepherds. The presence of Lamjung Himal dominates the horizon, providing picture-perfect scenery throughout the trek.
This section of the journey offers a serene walking experience, where the only sounds are mountain winds, birds, and distant waterfalls. It’s a perfect place for photographers, nature lovers, and trekkers seeking solitude.
Crossing the Remote Namun La Pass (4,920 m)
The highlight of this trek is the traverse of the stunning Namun La Pass, situated at an altitude of 4,920 meters. This high mountain pass is still relatively unknown, even among experienced trekkers. The climb to the pass is challenging but rewarding, offering dramatic landscapes, glittering glaciers, and superb views of Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, and the rugged terrain that stretches into the Marsyangdi Valley.
Reaching the top of Namun La is an unforgettable moment. The feeling of standing alone at nearly 5,000 meters with towering Himalayan giants on all sides is something very few trekking routes can offer today.
Descending Toward the Marsyangdi Valley
After crossing the pass, a long descent leads you to Timang, a beautiful village located along the famous Annapurna Circuit. The contrast is striking—after days in the wilderness, you finally meet small settlements, terraced fields, and friendly locals. This section reconnects you with one of Nepal’s most iconic trails, allowing you to experience a blend of remote trekking and classic Himalayan culture.
Why This Trek Stands Out
The Kori – Namun La – Timang trail is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Here’s what makes it truly special:
- Less-crowded trail: Ideal for trekkers looking for peace and a wilderness feel.
- Incredible viewpoints: From Kori Ridge to the high Himalayan passes.
- Rich culture: Encounter Gurung villages that preserve ancient traditions.
- Stunning diversity: Forests, alpine meadows, rocky ridges, and high passes.
- Unique route: A rare alternative that connects into the Annapurna Circuit.
A Journey Few Have Experienced
While the Annapurna region attracts thousands of trekkers each year, this particular route remains one of the area’s best-kept secrets. Alpinist Club is delighted to bring this extraordinary trek to adventurous travelers, offering expert guidance, safe logistics, and a well-crafted itinerary.
If you’re looking for a trek that combines beauty, challenge, culture, and true Himalayan wilderness, the Kori Ridge to Namun La Pass trek is the perfect choice—an unforgettable journey that remains undiscovered by many but loved deeply by those who walk it.
Itinerary
Expand AllUpon your arrival in Kathmandu, a member of our team will warmly welcome you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel for some rest. After a briefing on the trek itinerary and important details, you will have free time to relax or explore the area at your own pace, especially if you arrive in the morning. This is the perfect opportunity to savor local cuisine, experience the vibrant culture, and get a first glimpse of life in Nepal.
- Transfer to hotel private jeep/ car
- Final altitude: approx. 1,350 m
- Meals: Dinner
- Accommodation: Overnight at hotel
Today you travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara along the scenic Prithvi Highway. As you leave the city, the road climbs over a ridge that offers your first stunning view of the Himalayas. Most of the journey follows the beautiful Trisuli River, making it a very picturesque drive.
Once you reach Pokhara, make sure to explore the lakeside area of Phewa Lake, where the view of Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain) is truly breathtaking.
- Mode of Travel: Private vehicle
- Duration: About 7 hours
- Distance: About 200 km
- Altitude: Around 820 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAfter breakfast, you take a short vehicle ride to the town of Khandarjung (1,300 m), where your trek officially begins. From here, you start walking through lush forest trails that gradually climb up to Ghale Kharka.
- Drive Duration: About 3 hours
- Trek Duration: About 4 hours
- Elevation Gain: +450 m
- Final Altitude: Around 1,750 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Tent/Camping
Today’s trek is a steep but rewarding climb through thick rhododendron forests filled with birdlife. The trail continues uphill in steady steps until you reach Tara Hill Top, a wide grassy campsite. Water is limited here, but the panoramic mountain views are incredible—stretching from west to east across peaks such as Annapurna South, Machapuchare, Gangapurna, Annapurna III, IV, II, Lamjung, Nimjung, and all the way to Manaslu.
- Walking Duration: About 6 hours
- Elevation Gain: +1100 m
- Final Altitude: 2,880 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Tent/Camping
Today begins with a gentle descent along the ridge. The trail continues on what locals call “Nepali flat,” meaning a mix of short climbs and small descents. You will cross a stream and walk past a small landslide area before reaching a beautiful open clearing. From there, the trail leads you to the traditional village of Sikles.
Accommodation will be in a camp or a very simple lodge.
- Walking Duration: About 6 hours
- Elevation gain / Loss: +100 m / –1000 m
- Final Altitude: 2,000 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge
Sikles is a charming Gurung village with two Tibetan temples, one of them very old. Leaving the village, the trail cuts through forest switchbacks until you reach a suspension bridge at 1,400 m over the Madkyu Khola River.
From here, a steep uphill climb leads to a simple lodge at Tanso Kharka. The views from this area are truly beautiful, showcasing Machapuchare, Annapurna II, and Lamjung Himal.
- Walking Duration: About 6 hours
- Elevation gain/ loss: +1000 m / –500 m
- Final Altitude: 2,500 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Tent
Today is a long but rewarding ascent. The trail begins along a dirt road, then climbs steep steps through rhododendron forests, passing several Kharkas (shepherd huts) and a water point.
About 30 minutes before reaching Kori Hill Top, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of Annapurna South, Mardi Himal, Machapuchare, the Three Sisters, Annapurna IV, and Annapurna II.
There are four basic cabins here, often used by Nepali travelers on weekends.
- Walking Duration: 8 hours
- Elevation Gain/ loss: +1380 m
- Final Altitude: Around 3,880 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Tent
This is an important day to help your body adjust to the altitude. You will stay in the same area and take short hikes to support acclimatization while enjoying the incredible mountain scenery around you.
- Walking Duration: About 5 hours
- Elevation gain/ Loss: +1200 m / –300 m
- Final Altitude: Around 3,880 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Tent
After a refreshing rest day, you continue with a short trek to maintain acclimatization. The path follows a rocky ridge through grasslands and small rhododendrons. Soon, the mountains disappear from view as you reach two beautiful lakes on either side of the trail.
The campsite is located higher up, perfectly aligned with Machhapuchhare, and offers magnificent views including Annapurna I.
- Walking Duration: About 4 hours
- Elevation Gain/ Loss: +450 m / –150 m
- Final Altitude: Around 4,180 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge/ tent
Today is a long and challenging trekking day. You start by descending toward Tuju and then begin climbing your first high pass, reaching close to 5,000 meters. After the pass, you traverse downhill for 2–3 hours, walking above the Tuju alpine pastures. The trail then continues across the slopes toward the Fudju Dewrali Pass at 4,380 meters.
From here, it’s about one hour of downhill hiking to reach the campsite. At the junction, the left trail leads to the high-altitude lake of Dudh Pokhari, while the right trail descends toward Jagat on the Annapurna Circuit.
- Walking Duration: About 8 hours
- Elevation Gain/Loss: +800 m / –400 m
- Final Altitude: 4,380 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Tent
A final steep ascent takes you to Namun La Pass, the highest point of the entire trek. From the top, you’ll enjoy stunning, close-up views of Manaslu right in front of you.
After celebrating the pass, a long and steep descent brings you down to the meadows and the first clusters of alpine huts at Dafne Kharka.
- Walking Duration: About 7 hours
- Elevation Gain/Loss: +350 m / –1300 m
- Final Altitude: Around 4,250 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Tent
Leaving the dry highlands behind, the trail enters dense forest and continues on a long downhill route. Eventually, you reach Timang, a village on the famous Annapurna Circuit.
- Walking Duration: About 6 hours
- Elevation Gain/Loss: +400 m / –530 m
- Final Altitude: 2300m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge
After breakfast, you drive from Timang to Dharapani and continue onward to Besishar. From there, the journey continues by road back to Kathmandu.
- Travel: Private vehicle
- Drive Duration: 7-8 Hrs (Timang–Dharapani) + onward drive to Kathmandu
- Altitude: Around 1,300 m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (Dinner not included)
- Accommodation: Hotel
Today marks the conclusion of your Nepal journey. Depending on the departure time of your flight, you will have some free time to relax or do last-minute shopping. Our representative will then transfer you to the airport for your onward journey. We hope to have the pleasure of serving you again in the future. Wishing you safe travels and fond memories of Nepal!
- Meals: Breakfast,
Note:
If you have a private group and prefer a personalized experience, we can organize a custom trip tailored to your requirements and group size, running it any day you choose.
Plan a Private TripIncluded & Excluded
Included Points
AIRPORT PICK-UP AND DROP : airport to hotel transfer (pick-up and drop).
ACCOMMODATION IN KATHMANDU : nights' hotel (3-star category) in Kathmandu, sharing a twin bedroom on a Bed and breakfast basis.1night (3- star category) in Pokhara – sharing a twin bedroom on a Bed and breakfast basis.
ACCOMMODATION DURING THE TREK : Teahouse/ lodge accommodation in Skiles, Tasa, and the adjoining village, plus tented camping at higher camps (Kori, Thulek, Dhampu, Namun La Base Camp).
WELCOME DINNER : Welcome dinner in Kathmandu at a Nepali restaurant with cultural dance.
SPECIAL PERMIT : Kori Ridge to Namun La Pass trek- Sikles village, restricted permit.
PERMITS ALL NECESSARY PAPERWORK : Annapurna conservation area permit, TIMS card, and conservation entry fee.
FOOD & LODGING : Food 3 meals a day (BLD, including tea and coffee) along with accessible accommodation at the hotel/lodge during the trek.
STAFF INSURANCE : Insurance for all involved Nepalese staff during the trek.
MEMBER LUGGAGE : Up to 15kg per member for personal Baggage during the trek carried by porters.
STAFF SALARY & ALLOWANCE : All Nepalese staff and porters' daily wages, salary, equipment, food, and clothing.
CAMPING EQUIPMENT : Tents, kitchen tent, dining tent, toilet tent, sleeping mattress, and all kitchen utensils.
GUIDE LEADER : Leads the entire team, manages safety and logistics.
ASSISTANT GUIDE : Supports the leader and helps clients on the trail and sets the camp.
COOK : Prepares all meals on camping treks.
KITCHEN BOYS : Assists the cook with food prep and carries kitchen equipment.
PORTER : 2 trekkers:1 porter during trek. Carries trekking gear and supplies.
MEDICAL KIT : Comprehensive medical kit for members and staff.
EXTRA : Any other services or activities not mentioned in the itinerary. Any other item not listed in the “Cost Includes” section.
Excluded Points
INTERNATIONAL AIRFARE : International flight airfare (from and to Kathmandu)
NEPAL VISA FEES : Nepal Visa fee is US$ 40 per person for 30 days (to be applied for 60 days, US$ 100).
LUNCH & DINNER : Lunch and dinner during the stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara (also in case of early return from trekking than the scheduled itinerary).
EXTRA NIGHTS IN KATHMANDU : Extra nights' accommodation in Kathmandu. In case of early arrival, or extra night accommodation in Kathmandu. In case of early arrival or late departure, early return from trekking (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
PERSONAL EXPENSES : Telephone calls, internet, toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beer, and any alcoholic beverages.
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT : Clothing, packing Items or Bag, personal medical kit, personal trekking gears, etc.
TOILETRIES : Soaps, shampoos, toilet and tissue papers, toothpaste, and other items used to keep yourself clean.
FILMING : Special Filming, Camera, and drone permit fee
TIPS : Tipping is a culture in Nepal and is expected by your staff (guides, porters, drivers)
EXTRA : Any other services or activities not mentioned in the itinerary. Any other item not listed in the “Cost Includes” section.
Trip Information
Kori Ridge to Namun La pass trek- Sikless village Annapurna Trip details
Your guide, from your arrival in Kathmandu until your departure, is responsible for the success of your trip and oversees your team. Do not hesitate to ask him questions, respect his position as the team leader, and above all follow his advice! Often your guide is the only English-speaking member of the team. In the mountains and, especially when during high-altitude travels, your guide is responsible for the safety of the group. The instructions he gives and the remarks he makes to all participants must be carefully followed. The interest and safety of the trekking group must be preserved, even when it may be to the detriment of an individual member of the group.
Read MoreYour Nepalese team may consist of several people, each with different responsibilities. They are:
- The Guide Leader (Sirdar) is responsible for and the leader of the whole team and is treated with respect by all. Often he has earned his position by starting as a porter and rising through the ranks.
- The Assistant Guide: is actively helping clients under the leader’s direction and setting up camp.
- The Porter is the load carrier for the trekking group. As Nepal is a mountain country with few roads, porters are employed to carry loads. Compliance with regulations and common courtesy dictates the maximum weight carried and the minimum wage paid. Porters are provided with gear based on the routes they follow and with insurance for alpine treks.
- ( from 4 people of the group of trekkers: we will provide 1 Leader Guide, 1 Assistant Guide, and 2 porters ) . Nepalese teams depend on the Number of Clients and the area of trekking
Each trekker is allotted the following maximum weights per person:
For Lodge (tea house) Accommodations trek:15 kg maximum;
Additionally, the Alpinist Club ensures that insurance is provided for the guide and porters. They are also equipped with specific gear for crossing high-altitude passe.
Accommodations in Kathmandu
In Kathmandu, you will be accommodated in a hotel. We use different hotels depending on availability. The two preferred hotels are:
- Hotel Himalayan Suite: Located in the heart of Thamel, this hotel is ideal for walking the bustling streets of Kathmandu. The spacious rooms all have a bathroom, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. A fully equipped and active dining room is available for all meals, and the breakfast buffet offers a wide choice of foods. The hotel offers currency exchange, laundry services, and luggage storage.
- Sampada Garden: Located just 20 minutes on foot from Thamel and Durbar Square, this hotel is convenient for exploring Kathmandu. The rooms have all the comforts for your stay: air conditioning, bathroom, and Wi-Fi. Breakfasts are served as a generous buffet. The hotel provides currency exchange, laundry services, and luggage storage.
- Meal in Kathmandu: Upon arrival in Kathmandu, a welcome dinner is provided on the first evening. Similarly, upon return from the expedition, a farewell meal is provided. In the cities, many small (or large) restaurants allow us to discover the typical local cuisine.
Accommodation and Meals during the Kori Ridge Namun La pass trek- Sikless village, Annapurna trek
For lodge accommodation: during the Annapurna Base camp Trek, you will stay in the lodge or Tea House with twin shared bedrooms.
Meal during the trek: for this trek Meals are prepared by the Lodge's cook and Served in the dining room.
Here is a typical one-day menu:
- Breakfast: eggs, toast or chapati, or Tibetan bread or pancakes, or pancakes, butter/jam, tea or coffee
- Lunch: a main course, tea or coffee
- Dinner: soup, main course, fruit (fresh or canned), tea or coffee. During the trek, tea or coffee is served with meals. Two cups per person are included. Apart from these included menus, other drinks and foodstuffs will be at your expense.
- Water: We provide water purification tablets. and recommended to bring refilling bottles with purified water. Avoid buying mineral water due to its environmental impact.
Physical level in Ghorepani poonhill Trek
This program is designed for those who exercise regularly, especially in endurance activities. You only need to carry a daypack with essentials. The trek lasts 4 days, with daily hikes of 6 to 7 hours and altitude changes between 400 m and 1,350 m.
Preparation for the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek
Preparing for the trek requires several months of preparation with 4 to 6-hour walks every weekend for stamina and participating in a sport that requires short periods of high exertion.
Medical check-up before going to Trek
Being in good health is essential to fully enjoy your Alpinist Club trip. If your last medical visit was more than four years ago, please get another general physical exam and tell your doctor the nature of your trip (climate, altitude, difficulty, etc.). The altitude also has the effect of reviving dental problems or other chronic pain, so getting a dental checkup is also prudent. If you are undertaking a high-altitude expedition, we advise you to consult a mountain medicine specialist.
Acute Mountain Sickness
This trip takes place at high altitudes, so some people may experience altitude-related discomforts like headaches, loss of appetite, and swelling of limbs. Most of these symptoms usually go away within a few days, but sometimes they can develop into a serious illness: pulmonary or cerebral edema. There are no preventive drugs for AMS. Diamox diuretic is often effective for symptomatic relief, but you should first check with your doctor to verify that it is not contraindicated for you. Think about it before you go.
Group size for the Ghorepani Trek
The group is composed of 1 to 10 participants maximum. The number of participants is voluntarily limited to allow a better immersion, to not embarrass our hosts, to develop spaces of freedom and to allow a great flexibility of operation. However, the maximum number can be exceeded in the case where the last person who registers wishes to travel with another or several other people. The services will not be modified and the conditions of the trip will be identical as a result.
Personal Equipment for Trekking
Personal equipment is not provided, but a complete list will be shared later. We will refine the list with you during the preparation days and up until departure based on your questions.
High-altitude sleeping bags and quality down jackets are costly items you may not use often. We offer these specific items for rent during the trekking. You must return the equipment clean and in good condition, with a deposit required.
Safety During The Trek
Safety has always been our top priority at Alpinist. Our team of expert guides is dedicated to leading a fun and successful climb while ensuring safety remains uncompromised. We plan carefully, considering daily weather forecasts and paying diligent attention as we venture into high altitudes. Throughout the journey, we carry comprehensive medical kits, rescue equipment, and reliable radio and satellite communication gear.
