Kori Trek – 10 days

Trek Difficulty

The Kori Trek is at a moderate level. Daily activity includes 5-7 hours of trekking along hilly trails. The landscape is not the same: There is a period when the terrain is not steep uphill, and there are periods when steep areas are involved (in particular, on the summit day). It does not have any technical climbs or ropes; the trail is narrow and rocky in certain sections.

You must know how to walk 5-6 hours, without taking a break, over uneven surfaces. It is essential to have good stamina, strong legs, and a steady pace. Trekking poles and firm boots are suggested. We maintain a relaxed group pace so that everyone can follow. Our guide supports when necessary and provides breaks to trekkers.

In case of any health-related issues (pain in the knee, asthma, etc), you should consult a doctor before making a reservation. In general, this is a difficult but not impossible trek that can be performed by both fit beginners and intermediate trekkers.

Weather and Best Season

The weather in the Kori trek varies according to the season. The spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) months are the most appropriate. During the spring, the daytime temperature is moderate (10–20°C) and rhododendrons are in blossom in the trail. Autumn has clear skies, warm days, and cool nights, providing excellent mountain views.

Monsoon (June-August) is wet and trails are slippery, hence it is mostly avoided. It is cold in winter (December to February), particularly in high altitudes. At Kori Danda, snow may fall and nighttime temperatures may drop to below 0°C. Daylight is short in winter.

The temperatures are also varied: in higher camps, it may reach -5°C and even less at night. Pack warm layers year-round. Always check the forecast (Kathmandu and Pokhara forecasts) before departing. The stable conditions are spring and autumn treks.

Food & Drink

Meals on the trek showcase Nepali cuisine. All breakfasts, lunches, and dinners on trek are included. Typical dishes are dal bhat (lentils and rice with curry), vegetable curry, noodles, thukpa (noodle soup), and steamed dumplings (momo). Lodge breakfasts often include eggs, porridge, and bread. Vegetarian options are plentiful (Nepal is very veggie-friendly); vegan trekkers will find legumes and rice staples.

A few snacks (cookies, chocolates) help between meals. Only drink boiled or filtered water. We carry a large water jug and treat it with iodine or purification tablets. Lodges sell boiled/filtered water (price varies by village; bring a reusable bottle). Hot tea (often with milk and sugar) is served at meals. Avoid alcohol on trek because it dehydrates. On arrival days in Kathmandu/Pokhara, you can try Nepalese dishes or international fare.

Altitude Sickness

Nohtha (3,000m) and Kori Danda (3,800 m ) are high enough to risk altitude sickness. Most trekkers are fine, but be aware of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Symptoms: headache, nausea, dizziness, or trouble sleeping. We pace the ascent and overnight at Nohtha (3,000 m) for acclimatization. Stay hydrated (about 3–4 liters per day) and eat light meals. The guide will ensure you ascend slowly.

If symptoms appear, inform the guide immediately; he may advise rest or descent. Do not ascend if symptoms worsen. Our guide will carry an altitude medication (e.g., acetazolamide/Diamox), and if you have a history of AMS, consult a doctor before.

Our guides carry a pulse oximeter to monitor oxygen saturation, but listening to your body is most important. In severe cases, evacuation (by jeep or helicopter) is planned. With precautions, altitude affects a few trekkers on this moderate route, but always be cautious.

Preparation and Fitness

Physical preparation greatly improves the trek. In the weeks before departure, do regular cardio: walking, running, cycling, or swimming for 45–60 minutes, 4–5 times a week. Practice with a loaded backpack: add 5–10 kg and hike on hills or stairs to build endurance and leg strength. Strength exercises (squats, lunges) and core work help reduce fatigue. Try to hike on uneven trails to simulate conditions.

If possible, do a full-day hike (600–1,000 m total ascent) several weeks prior. Acclimatize if you live at sea level: a short high-altitude hike or arriving a day early in Kathmandu/Pokhara can help. Mentally prepare for early wake-ups and mountain weather. Pack and test all gear (boots, backpack) before the trek. If you train regularly, you’ll enjoy the trek much more.

Visa and Permits

All foreign visitors need a Nepal tourist visa, obtainable on arrival in Kathmandu or in advance from an embassy. Fees (as of 2025) are about USD 30 for 15 days or USD 50 for 30 days (exact amounts can change). You need passport-sized photos and local currency (USD) for payment. For the Kori Trek in Annapurna, two permits are required: ACAP and TIMS (official fees in NPR, subject to change).

ACAP is issued by the National Trust for Nature Conservation; TIMS is issued through NTB or TAAN offices in Kathmandu/Pokhara. Nomad Adventure Treks arranges and pays for these permits on your behalf. The guide will carry copies of permits at all times. Carry copies of your passport data page and visa too; hotels often need them.

Health & Safety

Stay healthy with prevention. Update routine vaccines (tetanus, polio, hepatitis A, typhoid) before travel. Carry a basic first-aid kit: blister pads, antibiotics for diarrhea, painkillers, and altitude meds. Wash your hands frequently or use sanitizer. Drink only boiled or bottled water; boil or purify river water before drinking. Eat only cooked food and peeled fruits. Malaria is not a concern above 1,500m, but use repellent in Kathmandu valley if needed.

Traffic in Kathmandu/Pokhara can be chaotic; use seatbelts in cars. The trekking route is remote, so follow guide’s instructions carefully. The lodges have basic medical kits, but nothing serious: evacuation (jeep or helicopter) is the only treatment for severe problems. We require travel insurance with medical evacuation for everyone. Carry policy details on trail. Overall, the trek is safe if you follow the advice: our guide is trained in first aid.

Transportation

Reaching Pokhara and Sikles is straightforward. Trekkers fly internationally into Kathmandu (Tribhuvan Airport). From Kathmandu to Pokhara, options include: (1) Tourist bus on Prithvi Highway (6-8 hours) or (2) 25-minute domestic flight. The bus is cheaper and scenic; flights save time but depend on the weather. For our itinerary, you can choose either the Kathmandu–Pokhara leg (not included in the price).

After Pokhara, a private 4WD jeep carries you 40 km up to Sikles (1,980m). Only sturdy jeeps can handle the rough mountain road; the ride is bumpy, but it shortens the trek length. In Kathmandu/Pokhara, taxis and local buses run regularly, but our package includes all necessary transfers. On trek days, all movement is on foot as described. Leave any personal vehicles at the city hotels safely.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory. Your policy must cover medical expenses and emergency rescue up to at least 4,000m altitude, including helicopter evacuation and repatriation. This includes helicopter evacuation, which can cost over USD 1,000 per hour. It must also cover trip cancellation, delays, and loss/theft of baggage. Keep a copy of your insurance documents with you (paper or photo). Since the route is remote, even a simple illness can become serious; insurance provides peace of mind.

Check that insurance explicitly covers trekking and high-altitude hiking, not just walking tours. We also recommend including emergency dental and repatriation. In short, while we plan for safety, having insurance lets you focus on the adventure.

Alternative Routes

The Kori trek can be combined with other trails. For example, you could extend your trek to Ghorepani Poon Hill, Mardi Himal, or Khopra Ridge for extra mountain views. After Sikles, some trekkers continue to Mohare Danda (3,300 m) via Mohare, adding 2-3 days for more views. Others extend from Sikles into the Annapurna Circuit or the Ghorepani trail.

If you prefer a shorter trek, skip the Kori Danda ascent and descend directly from Nohtha. Our company can arrange these options. Note: alternate routes also require permits (ACAP/TIMS) and possibly additional village permits. Book these extensions in advance so we can organize transport and guides. Let us know if you want extra adventure.

Your extra expenses

The itinerary shows what is included; everything else is extra. You must pay for the Nepal visa, and any international or domestic flights you book. Personal trekking gear (sleeping bag, poles, etc.) is your responsibility. On trek, drinks (water, coffee, soda, beer) cost about $1–3 each at tea houses. Hot showers (rare on the trail) also cost $1–2.

Snacks (chocolate, energy bars) are extra. Wi-Fi (where available in towns) and laundry in cities are extra costs. Tips are customary but appreciated, guides: USD 10–15/day; Porters: USD 8–12/day, shared. In cities, guide and driver meals are your tip responsibility. Bring cash in Nepali rupees for these. You may also want money for souvenirs (scarves, handicrafts), small donations, or unexpected needs. In total, plan around $250–350 extra for personal expenses and tips on this trip.

Language & Communication

Nepali is the official language. Gurung and Ghale are spoken in the villages. English is understood by guides, many lodge owners, and young Nepalis. You will hear Nepali phrases like Namaste (hello). On trek, English is limited. Our guide will help you with communication.

Offline translation apps (on your phone) can be helpful in villages. The Internet is limited on the trail; download maps and info before you go. Our guide speaks good English and will help you translate the conversation with locals. Overall, gestures and smiles go a long way on the Kori Trek.

Mobile Network, Internet & Charging

Mobile coverage is unreliable on this trek. Sikles usually has a signal; above it, no coverage or Wi-Fi. Signal on major Nepali networks (NTC, Ncell). Above Sikles (higher elevations), there is virtually no coverage, so expect to be offline. Kathmandu and Pokhara have full coverage and Wi-Fi cafes. To stay connected, buy a Nepali SIM card in Kathmandu/Pokhara (SIM cards cost $3 and need a passport copy).

Bringing a local SIM will give you reception at Sikles. Lodges sometimes charge $1 to charge a device (solar or generator power). Many mountain huts have no electricity by midday. Bring a high-capacity power bank. Most hotels use type C/D plugs (European style). The voltage in Nepal is 230V. In short: charge phones in town, have extra batteries for the trek, and enjoy the unplugged experience of the Kori Trek.

Don’ts on this trip

In order to enjoy your Kori Trek experience and be respectful of us, there are several basic rules to be considered. Always bring your garbage and put it in the right place in towns, and always keep to the guided trails to ensure that you do not harm yourself and the agricultural lands around. View wildlife and village animals without going near them or disturbing them. You should not go inside private houses or capture images of individuals and temples without permission.

You should not use open fires in lodges and should also consume only boiled or purified water as a precaution. Avoid indoor smoking; limit alcohol during trek days, and simple clothes are valued in villages. You should not haggle on fixed prices or handle religious objects without asking. With respect to the local culture and nature, you will make the Kori Trek beautiful and friendly to everyone.

Trip Extension

If you have extra time, many extensions are possible. In Pokhara, consider a sunrise hike to Sarangkot or paragliding ($100). You could combine the trek with Ghorepani–Poon Hill (4-5 days) or Mohare Danda (2-3 days). Cultural tours from Kathmandu include Bhaktapur and Patan day tours.

Trip extensions include a short jungle safari in Chitwan (3 days) to see rhinos and tigers, or a pilgrimage trip to Lumbini (2 days). Even the Everest Region is reachable via flight from Kathmandu (needs 7-10 more days). We can customize your itinerary: just let us know your interests. All extensions are arranged with proper permits and guides.

Photography & Drone Rules

Photographing is allowed, but take care of the rules. Never take pictures without permission from the locals or in homes and temples. In the case of drones, Nepal needs to permit all drones. Drone use requires permits from CAAN and local authorities (including Annapurna), and is limited around urban centres and airports. Filming permits (for professional use) are complex to obtain. Unless you have clearance from Nepal’s Civil Aviation Authority, do not bring a drone.

Even cameras should not be used in police or military areas. For normal picture-taking, a camera or smartphone is fine. Please respect “no photo” signs and privacy. Civilian photographers should honor local customs and not publish images without permission. Drones must be registered and insured, so it’s safest to leave them at home.

Cultural Festivals on the Trail

The trek passes through Gurung communities with unique festivals. Tamu Lhosar (Gurung New Year) usually occurs in January/February, featuring dance and feasts. Losar (Buddhist New Year) is in February. Other major Nepali festivals (Dashain in Sept/Oct, Tihar in Oct/Nov) are celebrated locally with lights and offerings.

If your trek happens during Holi, the festival of colors, local people may sprinkle colored powder and water along the trail to celebrate. Even without a major festival, you will see prayer flags and small shrines daily. Some villagers hang new flags for personal celebrations. If you meet a festival, feel free to ask locals about it and observe respectfully. We can adjust the schedule slightly if a local festival is a highlight, but note that exact dates vary by year.

Tips for First-Time Nepal Visitors

First-time trekkers should prepare carefully. Carry small-denomination Nepali rupees; ATMs in Kathmandu and Pokhara only dispense large notes. Dress modestly in villages (cover shoulders and knees). Footwear: sturdy hiking boots and comfortable sandals for lodges. Bring a toilet kit (paper and sanitizer), as mountain toilets are basic. Tap water is not drinkable – only use boiled or bottled water on trek.

Electrical outlets are 230V (type C or D), so bring a universal adapter. Greet people with “Namaste” (palms together). Tips: Guides USD 10–15/day; porters USD 8–12/day (per porter, shared). Be patient: Nepali bazaar time is not as fast as Western time. Above all, be open-minded and be able to appreciate the relaxed pace of mountain life. Nepali people are welcoming; a smile and respect can go a long way.