Kori: A hidden gem for trekking & himalayan views

Kori, located in Madi Rural Municipality–1 of Kaski district, offers an unparalleled opportunity to closely observe majestic peaks like Lamjung Himal, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, and the Three Sisters.

Nestled at an altitude of 3,850 meters above sea level, Kori can be reached by a nine-hour uphill trek from Sikles village via Hugu and Noulakharka.

The journey takes trekkers through pristine forests, traditional sheep herding shelters, and scenic landscapes. Krishna Gurung, a local tourism entrepreneur and owner of Icefall Hotel, shared that visitors can witness frequent avalanches from Annapurna and Lamjung Himal during the trek.

Another route to Kori starts from Sikles and passes through Tasa.

Trekkers typically have breakfast at Hugu and lunch at Noulakharka, where a tea shop serves meals. Kori is also a prime spot for viewing sunrises and sunsets, according to Gurung.

The trail features a vibrant rhododendron forest that blooms spectacularly in spring, creating a mesmerizing sight. During May, the high-altitude pastures are adorned with enchanting wildflowers, captivating every visitor.

Historically, Kori served as a rest stop for travelers and herders on the ancient trade route connecting Sikles, Lamjung, and Manang.

The trail was once crucial for transporting salt. Today, Kori hosts four hotels and has become a popular destination for hiking and holiday getaways, as noted by hotel entrepreneur Hom Gurung.

“Kori offers a rare chance to view the Himalayas from base to summit,” said Gurung. “The breathtaking panorama helps trekkers forget the fatigue from the steep ascents.” Visitors can explore various trails, including Sikles–Tasa–Kori, or extend their journey via routes like Naouta–Hugu–Kapuche–Hugu–Sikles, Tulo Lek–Gurung Deurali–Timang, or Tulo Lek–Kholasothar–Karapudada–Yangjakot–Tangting.

Kori and Beyond: The Four-K Trail

Combining Kapuche Glacier Lake, Kori, Kholasothar, and Karapudada, the trekking route is also referred to as the “Four-K Trek.” Trekkers typically start their journey from Sikles, located 41 kilometers from Pokhara.

While in Sikles, visitors can explore attractions like the Gurung Museum, Peace Memorial, Sikles Park, temples, and cultural displays of the Gurung community, according to Ward Chairperson Devijang Gurung of Madi–1.

Highlighting Kori’s tourism potential, he added that a feasibility study and public hearing have been conducted to operate a cable car from Puruyum to Kori.

Tourists can stay overnight at Kapuche Glacier Lake, situated at an altitude of 2,421 meters, or opt to stay in Hugu before heading to Kori.

From Kori, one can marvel at Lamjung Himal (6,988 meters), Annapurna II (7,937 meters), Machhapuchhre (6,993 meters), and Manaslu (8,156 meters) up close.

Preserving Natural Beauty

Gangha Ghale, a seasoned trekking guide, shared that Kori is an ideal destination for Himalayan exploration. “Tourists are always delighted by the stunning views here. The ability to observe entire peaks in one frame is Kori’s unique feature,” he said.

However, Ghale expressed concern over the diminishing snow on the once-pristine peaks. “The glaciers I saw a decade ago are now barren,” he lamented, linking the changes to rising temperatures in the Himalayan region. He emphasized the importance of protecting the environment by avoiding pollution and proper disposal of plastics.

Promoting Kori as a Tourism Hub

To boost Kori’s appeal, the Gurung Tourism Entrepreneurs Association of Gandaki Province has been promoting the trail as the “Gurung Heritage Trek.” According to Bobarjung Gurung, the association’s founding president, the area’s potential was assessed during a promotional trek in December.

The trek, organized in collaboration with Nepal Tourism Board, Gandaki Province’s Ministry of Industry and Tourism, and Madi Rural Municipality, spanned Sikles, Kapuche, Kori, Kholasothar, Karapudada, and Yangjakot.

The assessment revealed a pressing need for infrastructure development, including electricity, drinking water, and communication facilities.

“Tourist interest in Kori is growing rapidly,” said Gurung. “The government must prioritize providing essential services to realize Kori’s full potential as a prime trekking destination.”