The Hidden Lake Trek is not just another hiking route; it’s an expedition into the unexplored. This unexplored trail offers a rare thrill into the unknown. This journey provides an unmatched sense of achievement as you navigate paths that few have walked before.
Hidden Lake Trek provides an escape from the crowds and an immersion into the heart of pristine nature, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a unique and rewarding trekking experience. The trek’s major attractions include the spectacular views of Annapurna South, Fishtail, and Hiuchuli and the opportunity to witness the hidden lake, an experience that few have had the privilege of seeing.
Location and Starting Point: The Hidden Lake Trek is located in the Annapurna Region of Nepal, a hotspot for trekkers worldwide. The trek begins in the village of Ghandruk, accessible by a scenic jeep ride from Pokhara, one of Nepal’s most popular tourist destinations. Ghandruk is the gateway to this lesser-known path that leads adventurers through traditional villages and vibrant forests and eventually to the serene Hidden Lake, also known as Tridevi Tal.
Trail Length and Duration: The trek covers approximately 35 kilometers and typically takes five days to complete. It is moderate to difficult, requiring good fitness and some prior trekking experience. However, the journey is well worth the effort, offering beautiful landscapes and stunning views of the Himalayas to experience the region’s unspoiled beauty.
Spectacular Mountain Views: One of the major attractions of the Hidden Lake Trek is the spectacular views of the Annapurna range. Trekkers are treated to breathtaking panoramas of Annapurna South, Hiuchuli, and Machapuchare, among other peaks. The Muldei Viewpoint offers a particularly stunning view of over 30 snow-capped mountains, making it a highlight of the trek.
Traditional Gurung Villages: The trek passes through several traditional Gurung villages, including Ghandruk, Tadapani, and Chhomrong. The Gurung people are known for their hospitality and unique customs. Trekkers can interact with the locals, visit traditional homes, and experience the local way of life.
Vibrant Rhododendron Forests: The trek passes through vibrant rhododendron forests, which are particularly beautiful during spring. The forests are home to various flora and fauna, making the trek a delight for nature lovers. The colorful rhododendron blooms add a touch of magic to the trail, enhancing the overall trekking experience.
The Beauty of Hidden Lake: The Hidden Lake, also known as Tridevi Tal, is the major highlight of the trek. This pristine lake, situated at an altitude of 4,280 meters, is a surreal sight. Its unique feature of being its water source, without any external input, adds to its beauty. The lake holds religious significance, with locals worshipping at the Baraha Devi temple and offering sacrifices during the Janaipurnima festival.
Remote and Unexplored Trials: The Hidden Lake Trek takes trekkers through remote and unexplored paths, away from the crowds. This sense of adventure and exploration adds to the trek’s appeal, offering a unique experience for all trekkers. The trail passes through untouched wilderness, providing a sense of tranquility and solitude.
Strenuous Terrain: The Hidden Lake Trek is moderately strenuous, with steep ascents and descents. The rocky sections, walking along the ridge, and climbing steeply up and downhill can be challenging, particularly for beginners. A good fitness level and prior trekking experience are recommended to tackle the terrain effectively.
Altitude: The trek reaches an altitude of 4,308 meters at Hidden Lake. Trekkers must be aware of the risks of altitude sickness and take necessary precautions, such as proper acclimatization and staying hydrated.
Remote Areas: The trek passes through remote areas with limited facilities. Tea houses and accommodations are not readily available, so trekkers must plan their journey carefully. Carrying essential supplies and preparing for primary conditions are necessary for a comfortable trekking experience.
Spring (March to May): Spring is one of the best seasons for the Hidden Lake Trek. The weather is generally clear and mild. The rhododendrons are in full bloom, adding beauty to the trek. Daytime temperatures range between 3 and 9 degrees Celsius, dipping to -6 degrees Celsius at night. This season is ideal for experienced but laid-back trekkers, offering breathtaking mountain views and an enthralling trekking experience.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another perfect season for the trek. The weather is excellent, with warm days and cool nights. The post-monsoon clarity offers pristine trekking conditions with little to no rainfall. Daytime temperatures hover around 5-10 degrees Celsius, while nights can bring temperatures as low as -6 degrees Celsius. This season is ideal for every trekker.
Summer (June to August): Summer brings rainy days, with daily precipitation turning the paths muddy and riddled with leeches. However, the valleys are adorned with greenery, wildflowers, herbs, and medicinal plants, offering a unique landscape. Although most trekkers avoid summer, those who undertake the trek during this season are rewarded with stunning landscapes. Daytime temperatures range from 8-15 degrees Celsius, dropping to 0 degrees Celsius at night.
Winter (December to February): Winter presents cold, dry days with little to no rainfall, making the trek more challenging. The extreme cold and snowfall increase the difficulty level, and certain sections of the route may be blocked by snow. An experienced guide is essential during this season. The inherent risks come with great rewards, such as glistening snow-draped peaks and the opportunity to embrace the Himalayas’ winter wonderland. Average daytime temperatures range between 2 and 6 degrees Celsius, dropping to -6 to -10 degrees Celsius at night.
Discovery and Worship: Hidden Lake, or Tridevi Tal, is situated directly below Annapurna South. Many years ago, yak herders discovered the lake and continued to worship there. Yak herders hold a special place in the region.
Religious Importance: Hidden Lake is highly religiously significant to the local community. Known as Tridevi Tal, it is associated with the Baraha Devi temple, where locals ask for wishes to be fulfilled. When their wishes are granted, they offer sacrifices during the Janaipurnima festival, a major Hindu celebration in autumn. Remarkably, it is said that the blood of the worshipped sheep flows upwards towards the lake instead of downwards, adding to the lake’s mystical allure.
Rich Flora and Medicinal Herbs: The trail leading to Hidden Lake is rich with over 500 species of herbs, including medicinal varieties such as Narmasi, Panchaaule, Banlasun, Marmal, and Kutki. Local communities use these herbs for medicinal purposes, including treating high blood pressure and diabetes. Such diverse flora enhances the trekking experience, providing an opportunity to learn about.
Physical Preparation: Given the trek’s moderate to strenuous nature, physical preparation is essential. Trekkers should engage in regular cardiovascular exercises, such as swimming, running, and cycling, to build stamina. Strength training, particularly for the legs, is also recommended to prepare for the steep ascents and descents.
Permits and Regulations: Before embarking on the Hidden Lake Trek, trekkers must obtain the necessary permits, including the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit we will provide.
Hiring a Guide: While experienced trekkers might prefer to go solo, hiring a guide will be beneficial, especially for this unfamiliar region. A local guide can be very helpful for safety on the remote and challenging sections of the trek.
The Hidden Lake Trek in the Annapurna Region of Nepal offers an unparalleled adventure into one of the Himalayas’s most beautiful and remote parts. With its stunning mountain views, green forests, traditional Gurung villages, and the mystical Hidden Lake, this trek promises an experience of a lifetime. While the trek is moderately strenuous and involves challenges such as steep terrain and high altitudes, the rewards are immense for those who embark on this journey.
Kathmandu
The Hidden Lake Trek is a recently opened route in the Annapurna Region of Nepal, offering an adventure into an unexplored area of pristine nature, away from the usual crowds. The Hidden Lake Trek promises an adventurous journey filled with natural beauty, cultural richness, and a sense of accomplishment as you explore one of Nepal’s less-known trekking routes.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel. Take some time to rest from your journey and explore the lively streets of Thamel, known for its colorful shops and busy markets.
In the morning, you’ll either take a scenic but long drive or a short flight to Pokhara, a picturesque city beside Phewa Lake. Pokhara is the gateway to the Annapurna region and offers stunning views of the Himalayas. Spend the rest of the day exploring the charming streets.
The journey begins with a jeep ride from Pokhara to Ghandruk, a picturesque Gurung village. The drive takes around 2.5 hours and passes through scenic landscapes, including views of the Modi River and traditional villages such as Birethanti, Kilu, and Syulibazar. Upon reaching Ghandruk, trekkers can explore the village and enjoy the breathtaking scenery before starting the trek to Tadapani.
The trek from Ghandruk to Tadapani takes about 4-5 hours, passing through dense rhododendron and oak forests. Along the way, trekkers can enjoy the panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiuchuli, and Machapuchare (Fishtail). Tadapani, situated at an altitude of 2,630 meters, is the first overnight stop.
The second day involves a trek from Tadapani to Dobato, stopping at the Muldei Viewpoint. This part of the trail is known for its vibrant rhododendron forests, which are particularly stunning during spring. The trek takes around 5-6 hours and involves gradual ascents and descents.
Dobato is a small settlement at an altitude of 3,420 meters, offering spectacular views of the Annapurna range. The Muldei Viewpoint, located nearby, provides a panoramic view of over 30 snow-capped peaks, including Annapurna South, Hiuchuli, and Machapuchare.
On the third day, after a morning hike to Muldei viewpoint for panoramic views of the Himalayas, trekkers return to the Guest house and, after breakfast, begin the trek towards Pode Kharka. This trek section is less frequented, providing a sense of adventure and exploration. The trail passes through dense forests and open meadows, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as Himalayan Thar and various bird species.
Pode Kharka, located at an altitude of 3,650 meters, offers close-up views of Annapurna South, Hiuchuli, and Machapuchare. It is a serene and remote area, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of more popular trekking routes.
The fourth day is the highlight of the trek, as it takes trekkers to the Hidden Lake (Tridevi Tal). The trek from Pode Kharka to Hidden Lake involves a steep ascent, but the effort is rewarded with the sight of the pristine lake nestled below the magnificent Annapurna South.
Hidden Lake is a unique natural wonder at an altitude of 4,308 meters. It has no external water source; the lake itself is its water source. The lake holds religious significance, with locals worshipping at the nearby Baraha Devi temple. The trek continues to Tribung for an overnight stay.
The final day involves trekking from Tribung Dada to Chhomrong or Jhinu Danda. This part of the trek includes a steep descent, passing through forests and terraced fields. Chhomrong, at an altitude of 2,170 meters, is a beautiful village with stunning views of the Annapurna range.
From Chhomrong, trekkers can either continue to Jhinu Danda, known for its hot springs or take a jeep back to Pokhara. The trek concludes with a return to Pokhara, where trekkers can relax and reflect on their adventure.
When traveling from Pokhara to Kathmandu, one can choose between a scenic but long bumpy drive and a short flight, both of which offer unique perspectives of Nepal’s diverse landscapes.
Transfer to the airport or Extend your stay!
Excellent trip to Hidden Lake Trek
We recently completed the Hidden Lake Trek and had an outstanding experience, thanks to Sali Trekking. From start to finish, everything was beautifully organized and ran smoothly, making it a perfect adventure.
A special mention goes to our exceptional guide, Bipin, and the fantastic team of porters. Bipin’s expertise, knowledge of the trail, and friendly demeanor made the trek both informative and enjoyable. His leadership ensured our safety and comfort throughout the journey, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the breathtaking scenery. The porters were incredibly supportive and hardworking, always ready to assist with a smile, which significantly enhanced our trekking experience.
The logistics and planning by Sali Trekking were impeccable. Every detail was thoughtfully considered, from accommodations to meals, ensuring we had a hassle-free experience. The communication and coordination were seamless, reflecting the professionalism and dedication of the entire team.
We are deeply grateful to Sali Trekking for this unforgettable adventure and their unwavering commitment to providing top-notch service. We look forward to joining you on another trek in the future. Thank you, Bipin and the porters, for your outstanding efforts. We will definitely see you guys again!
The trek was well worth the effort.
“Sali Trekking’s Hidden Lake trek was one of the best experiences I’ve had. The guides were professional and provided great support, and the organization of the trek was flawless. The trail was scenic and varied, and reaching Hidden Lake was a highlight. The lake was beautiful and serene, and the trek offered a perfect balance of challenge and reward. I’m very satisfied with Sali Trekking’s service and would recommend them highly.”
Remote and unexplored trek in Nepal
We recently completed the Hidden Lake Trek with Sali Trekking, and it was a truly remarkable experience. From start to finish, the entire journey was beautifully organized, making it an absolutely smooth adventure.
A special thanks to our amazing guide, Niraz, whose expertise and knowledge of the trail made us feel safe and informed throughout the trek. His friendly behavior and willingness to share insights about the local culture and environment greatly enriched our experience. We also want to extend our gratitude to our porter, Samir, whose hard work and dedication were invaluable. His efforts ensured we could fully enjoy the trek without any worries about our gear.
Everything about the trip, from the logistics to the accommodations, was handled with utmost professionalism and care by Sali Trekking. The attention to detail and commitment to providing an exceptional experience were evident at every step.
We highly recommend Sali Trekking to anyone considering an adventure in this region. Thank you once again to Niraz, Samir, and the entire team for an unforgettable journey. We look forward to trekking with you again in the future.
Hidden Lake Trek in Annapurna Region
Our recent adventure to the Hidden Lake Trek was an extraordinary experience, one that surpassed all our expectations. From the meticulously organized itinerary to the exceptional services provided by our guide and porters, every aspect of the journey was flawlessly executed. We are incredibly grateful to Sali Trekking for arranging such a memorable trip and for the invaluable contributions of our guide, Sital, and porter, Hem.
The Hidden Lake Trek is renowned for its stunning vistas and diverse landscapes, and experiencing it firsthand was truly awe-inspiring. Each day brought new wonders, from lush forests and cascading waterfalls to rugged mountain paths and serene alpine meadows. The beauty of the Hidden Lake itself, nestled among towering peaks, was a sight that will remain etched in our memories forever.
Reflecting on our adventure, we are filled with gratitude for the incredible team that made it all possible. Sali Trekking’s exceptional organization and the outstanding guidance of Sital and Hem transformed our trek into an unforgettable journey. Their professionalism, dedication, and genuine warmth created an atmosphere of friendship and trust, enhancing our overall experience.
We eagerly look forward to future treks with this exceptional team and highly recommend Sali Trekking to anyone seeking an extraordinary trekking experience. We will see you guys again!
Great job!
“The Hidden Lake trek with Sali Trekking was fantastic. The organization was impeccable, and the guides were knowledgeable and supportive. The trek offered diverse terrain and stunning views, making the journey enjoyable and engaging. Reaching Hidden Lake was the perfect culmination of the hike—serene and picturesque. Thanks to Sali Trekking for a well-planned and memorable adventure.”
