Tilicho Lake Trek

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Trip Overview
  • Duration: 17 Days
  • Trip Grade: Strenuous
  • Trip Start and End: Kathmandu
  • Trip Area: Manang, Mustang
  • Trip Style: Active/ Adventure
  • Age Group: 15+
  • Trip Type: Private and Group
  • Trip Method: Guided
  • Booking Type: Instant Booking
  • Max. Altitude: 5416m
  • Best Season: Mar-May/ Sep-Nov
  • Foot Print:Carbon Neutralleaf

The Tilicho Lake Trek is a 15-day journey in the Annapurna region that takes you to one of the world’s highest-altitude lakes, Tilicho.

The trek is one of the most challenging trekking excursions in the Annapurna region because the lake is situated in a remote location in the region. For trekkers looking for challenging and exciting hikes in the Annapurna region, the Tilicho Lake Trek is perfect for them.

The tough Thorong-La Pass must be crossed on the trek, leading trekkers to discover the Annapurna region's hidden natural and cultural features. The dry landscape of the region resembles the Tibetan Plateau and is truly a sight to behold. The pure turquoise water of the lake and the heavenly surroundings leave visitors in awe. As you traverse the trail, you will encounter villages inhabited by people from various ethnic groups.

This journey provides a rewarding exploration for hikers by leading them to view a variety of organically adorned beauties of nature, which leaves them in awe. A breathtaking view of the area's majestic mountains, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, and Himchuli, can be seen on the hike.

Embarking on this trek will provide you with unforgettable experiences that will last a lifetime. This challenging trek offers immeasurable rewards and is a must-visit destination for nature and adventure lovers.

Hindus from all over the world congregate in Tilicho Lake to take sacred baths because it is one of their holiest lakes. During your journey, you will visit the Muktinath Temple, a sacred temple in Nepal that is visited mostly by Hindu and Buddhist people from Nepal. There are vibrant monasteries and Gompas in the valley, which depict the culture and tradition of various Nepalese ethnic groups.

This journey is an exploration of lush woods and green forests where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. The thundering waterfalls and serene lakes, along with the river, will leave you mesmerized. Although the journey can be challenging, the beautiful scenery and the local hospitality will make you feel like it was all worth it.

Starting from Kathmandu, the trek follows the famous Annapurna trail. After driving to Chame, the journey begins with a hike to the picturesque Manang village, often referred to as a Himalayan Shangri-La.

You can take some time to rest and acclimatize to the high altitude before continuing the trek to the Tilicho base camp. The trail becomes narrow and slightly challenging once you leave the village of Manang.

Upon reaching the base camp, you will be greeted by the mesmerizing beauty of Tilicho Lake.

After visiting the Lake, the trail continues to Yak Kharka and joins the regular route that crosses the Thorong La Pass (5416m). With this route, you can also visit Muktinath via the Plateau of Kagbeni and return to Jomsom, which are also the starting points of the scenic Upper Mustang Jeep Tour. If you have limited time, you can choose to trek back to Chame and drive back to Kathmandu or Pokhara. Throughout the trek, you will witness a variety of vegetation zones, from lush sub-tropical areas to harsh semi-desert regions.

Highlights

  • Experience the beauty of the highest altitude lake in Nepal, Tilicho Lake (4919m), surrounded by picturesque villages and turbulent river gorges
  • An incredible view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges and peaks such as Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Nilgiri, Mt. Chulu, Thorung, Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Lamjung, etc
  • Walk through the lush forests of rhododendrons and oaks with the mountains as the backdrop
  • Discover the unique cultures and traditions of the Magar, Gurung, and Thakali people
  • Cross the Thorong La Pass to have an incredible view of the surrounding peaks
  • Get a picturesque view of glaciers, moraine valleys, rivers, waterfalls, and the Kali Gandaki gorge
  • Enjoy the natural hot springs along the way
  • Visit the Manang Valley and explore the culture of the people
  • Collect blessings from Muktinath Temple, one of the renowned pilgrimage sites of Hindus and Buddhists
  • Explore different gompa and monasteries during the trek

Tilicho Lake Trek with Annapurna Circuit

The Tilicho Lake Trek leads you to the exploration of the Annapurna Circuit along with Nepal’s highest-altitude lake, Tilicho.

This journey offers majestic panoramic views of the Annapurna range and a diverse cultural experience. The trek takes you through deep valleys and high mountains, surrounded by the magnificent Annapurna Himalayas.

Most of the trek follows the Annapurna circuit route along the Marsyangdi River valley, providing breathtaking views of Manaslu and Himal Chuli to the east. Each day offers a unique landscape, starting from the subtropical climate and ending at the snow line. The trek also allows you to witness a lake at such a high altitude, which holds great religious significance.

Trip Map

Tilicho Lake Trek Map

Tilicho Lake Trek Itinerary

  • Day 1:Drive from Kathmandu to ChamjeAltitude: 1430 m
  • Day 2:Trek from Chamje to DharapaniAltitude: 1860 m
  • Day 3:Trek from Dharapani to ChameAltitude: 2670 m
  • Day 4:Trek from Chame to Upper PisangAltitude: 3300 m
  • Day 5:Trek from Pisang to Manang ValleyAltitude: 3640 m
  • Day 6:Rest Day at ManangAltitude: 3640 m
  • Day 7:Manang to Siri KharkaAltitude: 4040 m
  • Day 8:Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base CampAltitude: 4150 m
  • Day 9:Exploration of Tilicho Lake (4910 m) and return to Siri KharkaAltitude: 4040 m
  • Day 10:Siri Kharka to Yak KharkaAltitude: 4050 m
  • Day 11:Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorung PhediAltitude: 4450 m
  • Day 12:Trek from Thorung Phedi to Muktinath via Thorung-La Pass (5416 m)Altitude: 3760 m
  • Day 13:Drive from Muktinath to JomsomAltitude: 2720 m
  • Day 14:Fly back from Jomsom to PokharaAltitude: 820 m
  • Day 15:Drive back to KathmanduAltitude: 1345 m

Day 1:Drive from Kathmandu to Chamje

  • Max Altitude1430 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsLunch and Dinner

After breakfast early in the morning, you'll leave for Chamje. You will take a scenic bus ride from Kathmandu to Chamje which takes almost nine hours.

You will travel until you reach Dumre along the highway between Kathmandu and Pokhara. From there, your route deviates to the Lamjung (Besisahar) headquarters where you can savor the breathtaking vistas.

Day 2:Trek from Chamje to Dharapani

  • Max Altitude1860 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

After descending the rocky slope of the river, you will stroll along the Marshyangdi River to get to Dharapani. You will next travel a long incline to get to Sattale. After reaching Sattale, you will ascend the zigzag path to reach the top and walk downhill to reach Tal after walking along the river.

Along the trip, you will pass waterfalls and river valleys before arriving at the settlement of Karte. You will arrive at Dharapani after traversing a suspension bridge.

Day 3:Trek from Dharapani to Chame

  • Max Altitude2670 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

You will start the hike after breakfast at Dharapani. You will walk through pine and oak forests to get to Danaque. After that, you will cross a tiny wooden bridge and climb Timang's inclining path. This village situated at the foothill of Lamjung Himal offers wonderful views of stunning landscapes and mountains.

Then you'll proceed along the reasonably flat trail to Chame. The sub-urban region serves as the administrative center for the Manang district. You will spend the night here.

Day 4:Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang

  • Max Altitude3300 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

As you depart Chame, you can witness a stunning sunrise over Lamjung Himal. Today you can enjoy stunning vistas of mountain ranges and peaks including the Annapurna Range and Pisang Peak while strolling through the oak and pine forest.

You will traverse a high, rocky, and steep trail to get to Bhratang. Additionally, you will stroll through a lovely valley with views of the surrounding countryside and mountains. After reaching Pisang, you will rest, have dinner, and stay at a tea house there.

Day 5:Trek from Pisang to Manang Valley

  • Max Altitude3640 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

After eating breakfast, you will depart for Manang Valley from Pisang. You will climb a difficult slope that offers a beautiful view of the Manang Valley and Tilicho Peak (7145 m). Then you will walk down the airstrip at Hungde, Manang.

After walking for a while, you will get to a flat area that gives a wonderful view of the northeast face of Annapurna III. Then you will continue walking the trail to get to Sabje Khola Valley.

You will get a magnificent view of Annapurna IV (7525 m) from there. You will walk further and cross the wooden bridge over Marsyangdi Khola which takes you to Mungji. You will ascend a steep trail uphill to reach Manang Valley where you will stay overnight.

Day 6:Rest Day at Manang

  • Max Altitude3640 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

Manang is located at an altitude of 3640m which means that you have now ascended to an altitude where you are susceptible to altitude sickness. You can take some time to acclimatize to this elevation increase before moving to any location with a higher elevation. You can go on a few short walks, but you must come back to Manang at the end of the day.

Short hikes include a hike to Khangsar village, which features some astounding views of the Annapurna range. You can hike to Gangapurna glacier, which you will reach after walking past the icefall of Annapurna, or just stroll around the village.

Day 7:Manang to Siri Kharka

  • Max Altitude4040 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

Today you will climb from Manang Valley to Siri Kharka where you will pass the 4000 m elevation mark. You will walk across a rocky challenging trail between the giant hills.

As you ascend, there will be less vegetation due to the low temperatures and strong winds. You will pass the Kangsar settlement after crossing the river on a suspension bridge. Then, you will be rewarded with an amazing view of the Gungang and Chilo mountains. Your overnight stay will be at Siri Kharka.

Day 8:Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp

  • Max Altitude4150 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

You will travel to Tilicho Base Camp today. Although the route is not particularly steep, the narrow path and loose scree make it potentially difficult. You need to use extreme caution because the area is prone to landslides.

You will take a break and spend the night at a tea house once you arrive at Tilicho Base Camp.

Day 9:Exploration of Tilicho Lake (4910 m) and return to Siri Kharka

  • Max Altitude4040 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

You will begin your trek from Sirikharka while ascending the challenging, difficult, and steep mountainside path. Even though the trail is challenging, you will enjoy stunning mountain vistas.

Then you will reach Tilicho Lake which stands at 5,000 meters. It is breathtaking to see the turquoise, crystal-clear lake surrounded by enormous mountains. The lake offers the best view of the Tilicho summit. After taking in this beautiful vista, you will return to Siri Kharka and spend the night there.

Day 10:Siri Kharka to Yak Kharka

  • Max Altitude4050 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

You will return down the same path, crossing Tare Gumba to reach Yak Kharka. As soon as you get to Yak Kharka today, you'll head back along the circuit trek path.

You will descend into Khangsar Village in order to reach Yak Kharka. You will get to visit Tare Gumba, a thousand-year-old monastery. You will reach a plateau after some ascent. Then you will travel a short distance to arrive at Yak Kharka. Here, you will stay at a teahouse and have your dinner.

Day 11:Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorung Phedi

  • Max Altitude4450 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

Today’s destination will be Thorung Phedi. You will eventually arrive in the village of Ledar after crossing Marshyangdi River's headwaters and a suspension bridge. As you continue to climb, you will pass a number of cliffs before arriving at Thorung Phedi. You'll spend the night there.

Day 12:Trek from Thorung Phedi to Muktinath via Thorung-La Pass (5416 m)

  • Max Altitude3760 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

You will reach the Thorong-La Pass on this day, marking the highest elevation of your hiking adventure. To reach the Pass, you will hike along a challenging, constrained, and rocky path.

You will be rewarded when you arrive with a stunning view of the Himalayas and peaks like Thorung Peak, the Annapurna Range, the Dhaulagiri Range, the Nilgiri, etc. The Kaligandaki River Valley as well as the Mustang Hills will be visible to you.

You will descend to reach Muktinath, a well-known Hindu pilgrimage place in Nepal. Devotees of Buddhism and Hinduism travel there hoping to find salvation. You will walk down a relatively easy path along the Jhong Khola to get there. You will visit the temple and have a closer look at the historical, cultural, and religious aspects of the temple.

Day 13:Drive from Muktinath to Jomsom

  • Max Altitude2720 m
  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBLD

You will leave Muktinath and drive down to Kaligandaki Gorge. You'll notice many cultural and architectural parallels to Tibet when you travel through Jharkot and Khingar settlements. You'll get to enjoy a breathtaking vista of many mountains, including Nilgiri. As you continue to descend, you will arrive at Marpha village and Jomsom, which once more has a variety of mountains, including Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri.

Day 14:Fly back from Jomsom to Pokhara

  • Max Altitude820 m
  • Accommodation3-Star hotel
  • MealsBreakfast and Lunch

After successfully finishing the circuit trip, you will take a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. You will be able to take in the breathtaking aerial perspective of that area during your nearly 20-minute ride.

When you get to Pokhara, check into a 3-star hotel. Indulge in enjoyable pursuits like boating, wandering the streets, shopping, and other pastimes to relax after a strenuous hike. You will visit Bat and Mahendra caves among others. You can visit local eateries, bars, and cafes, among other things.

Day 15:Drive back to Kathmandu

  • Max Altitude1345 m
  • Accommodation3-Star Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast

You will return to Kathmandu once your Annapurna Circuit Trek is finished. As you ride towards Kathmandu, you may take in the sights of villages like Damauli, Dumre, Mugling, and Kurintar. It takes roughly 6 hours to travel here.

After arriving in Kathmandu, you can choose between relaxing or exploring Thamel's alleyways in search of mementos. Going to spas and receiving a massage are other ways to combat weariness. In the evening, Sublime Trails will host a farewell dinner for you where you can eat traditional Nepali foods and take in cultural dance performances by neighborhood dancers.

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Cost Details

Included

  • 14 Breakfasts, 14 Lunches, 13 Dinners
  • 3-Star accommodation in Pokhara for 1 night
  • Tea house accommodation along the way for 13 nights
  • All land transportation with pickups and drops
  • One guide and assistant guide between 6 people 
  • 1 porter for two people (A porter can carry up to 30 kg)
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit Fee
  • TIMS Card Fee
  • Down jacket, a Sleeping bag which should be returned to the company after the trip
  • Necessary paperwork with the Government of Nepal and the Tax department
  • All necessary insurance for guides and porters
  • First Aid service in case of minor injuries
  • Salary, food, and accommodation for guides and porters

Excluded

  • Any meals other than breakfast in Kathmandu
  • Rescue & travel insurance, trip cancellation costs, accident or health emergency, evacuation, loss, theft, or damage to baggage and personal effects (We strongly advise you to take out personal travel insurance.)
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu due to any reason
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, internet, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, cold drinks, bottled or boiled water, hot shower, etc.)
  • All alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks including mineral water
  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Tipping for the Sublime Trails crew

Trip Essential Information

Weather and Temperature

Autumn and spring are the best times of the year to visit Tilicho Lake. You can tour the stunning mountain panoramas of the Manaslu and Annapurna regions during these months.

Below is the list of all four seasons in Nepal:

Autumn: The Autumn season is ideal for hiking and other adventurous sports due to the pleasant atmosphere, steady and reasonable level of weather and temperature, and clear skies. In Nepal, September, October, and November fall under this season. The weather is constant, and the temperature is mild. It is the finest time to explore the lush, green forest, the blossoming rhododendrons on the hills, and the alluring aura of nature.

This season is the welcoming period of the main festival in Nepal. Dashain and Tihar are celebrated by people of diverse cultural backgrounds, so autumn gifts you with a proper cultural exploration.

Spring: Spring is the second-best time of year to visit the trek. Similar to autumn, the weather is fairly clear, and the trail is covered with various flowers so that you can immerse yourself in the scenery and the beauty of nature. In Nepal, the spring season begins in March and lasts through May.

You can even experience the breathtaking views of the Gangapurna, Pisang Peak, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, and Annapurna IV while trekking around Tilicho Lake because the view is clear and the weather is favorable. Additionally, the trail's Gompas and monasteries, as well as the Manang Valley's distinctive trans-Himalayan terrain, are spectacular in the spring.

Summer: June marks the beginning of summer, which lasts through August. Due to the favorable weather, it is an excellent time to explore mountainous areas. However, the travel can be challenging because the Terai and lower hilly regions have temperatures that stay around and above 28 degrees Celsius.

Nepal experiences its monsoon season in the summer. It is challenging to go on a trek in the highlands because of the frequently changing weather and environment. It rains quite frequently and erratically everywhere, which makes travel difficult.

Winter: The winter months in Nepal are December, January, and February. Urban areas and those with lower elevations are best explored during the winter. There is a greater likelihood of snowfall and icy weather at higher elevations. Trekking to Tilicho Lake is thus possible in the final month of winter; however, this time of year is not the best.

Upper elevations get negative unit temperatures, making conditions extremely icy and challenging. As a result, higher-elevation hiking activities are not very favorable during this season.

Food and Accommodation During the Tilicho Lake Trek

Most of the time, while on your trekking journey, you'll stay at tea houses run by locals. These teahouses provide comfortable rooms with basic amenities like blankets, beds, hot water, and delicious food. You will receive basic services from them. For dinner and lunch, you will be served Nepali Dal Bhat, local Nepalese food, and other Tibetan-Nepalese cuisines like Momos (dumplings), Thukpa, and chow mein, which are the most favored local foods among Nepali people.

Hot tea, Milk tea, Ginger tea, Green tea, ginger soup, mushroom soup, and other fluids are also available, which will help your body at high altitudes.

You can also try fruits and vegetables, as they are locally grown here. In some of the places during the trek, you can find non-Nepali dishes like spaghetti, pizza, pasta, macaroni, etc.

You can try a variety of local cuisines in some locations. You will stay in three-star deluxe hotels with breakfast service while staying in Pokhara and Kathmandu.

Electricity, Wi-Fi, and Communication During the Trek

Most villages along the Tilicho trek have electricity from hydropower stations. Some places may charge you for the service while others may not charge for the same, and the cost can range from 2 USD to 3 USD.

Wi-Fi is not really available at most places along the trek, but you can get a data connection with a Nepal Telecom or Ncell sim card during much of the trek. However, it is not guaranteed every day and the signal can depend upon weather conditions as well.

Trek Difficulty

The Tilicho Lake Trek is moderately difficult. The trail includes numerous steep ascents and descents, difficult terrain, and surfaces that become ice and slippery in the winter and during wet seasons. The highest pass, Thorong La Pass, is located at 5416 m, and Tilicho Lake is located at 4919 m.

As we ascend, the oxygen layer becomes thinner, which causes altitude sickness in hikers. It takes an average of 6-7 hours of walking every day, so powerful breathing and physical exercises could be helpful during the trek. The Annapurna region is not as accessible for trekking as other areas, therefore, a strong level of endurance is required to hike up from Thorong La Pass with its challenging ups and downs.

The most difficult section of the expedition may be the trail above Shree Kharka. You might experience digestive issues, so it's better to keep digestive tablets on hand and monitor your health. Although the trek is difficult, the journey is worth it because it rewards you with amazing, picturesque mountains along the way.

Other Popular Treks in the Annapurna Region

Ghorepani Ghandruk Trek | Annapurna Base Camp Trek | Short ABC Trek - 5 Days | Poon Hill Trek | Khopra Danda Trek | Annapurna Circuit Trek | Mardi Himal Trek | Nar Phu Valley Trek

FAQs

  • Tilicho Base Camp Trek is similar to the Annapurna Circuit Trek except you will have 2 additional days to trek to Tilicho Lake and back.

  • You have to walk through the landslide area which is quite difficult. It is a bit risky as well as the boulders may slide from the uphill. But your safety is our priority and our team will always work on their best to keep you safe. Our team makes sure, the trail is safe before proceeding the trek.

  • Tilicho Lake is situated in the Manang district at a height of 4919 meters. It was created by the glacier melt on the northern side of Annapurna Mountain and Thorung Peak.

  • An ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Protection) permit which costs NPR 3,000 per person is necessary for foreign trekkers. Before beginning their journey, they also require a TIMS (Trekking Information Management System) permit, which costs NPR 2000 per person.

    These permits are available for purchase from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu for solo hikers. Sublime Trails will arrange the permits and bear the costs for trekkers traveling with us.

  • Arrange 3 passport-sized pictures and a few copies of the passport for the application process. We also advise you to bring a copy of your travel insurance.

  • As you have to trek higher than 4000 m elevation for a few days, there is a risk of altitude sickness. However, the acclimatization rest will reduce the risk. You should maintain your pace of trekking and should not rush. It is mandatory to stay hydrated throughout the trek.

  • You are allowed to carry a luggage that weighs 33 pounds or 15 kilograms. While your porter will carry your bags, you must take a daypack (including your valuables or anything else important) by yourself. Additionally, it is better to pack all the necessary items required for your safety like medicines, and light snacks.

Price Per PersonUS$120017Days
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Tilicho Lake Trek Reviews

5.0based on 3 reviews
  • Victor
    VictorJune 05, 2022
    TripAdvisor

    Doubt of finishing Annapurna Circuit but completed without any issues

    First and foremost, I want to thank Mr. Shiva, my trek guide who was with me on my worst and best times in this trek. He was my source of motivation for this trek. Also, my fellow trekkers were kind enough.

    Mr. Ram was a very responsive person. He did reply to my every queries. The well maintained logistics, porters, guides from Sublime Trails were fantastic. I give four or five stars to this company. I recommend this company to everyone who wishes to trek Annapurna Circuit. Best trip of my life. Wonderful.

  • Diah Hidayat
    Diah HidayatAugust 14, 2018
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    Difficult but amazing trekking

    I and my boyfriend decided to spend our holiday trekking in Nepal and it turned out amazing! We chose Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake as we wanted to explore Nepal without any rush. The trail was so beautiful, we had to cross many jungles rivers and we encountered so many beautiful waterfalls! Diving into the hotsprings was one of the best experience. People we met along the way were so friendly and kind, we had so much fun talking to them. At some points, it was so difficult to move further such as Thorong La Pass and on the way to Tilicho. But our guide kept us motivated and helped a lot! The view of the Lake and the mountain were so amazing that'd make us forget all the difficulties along the way! Nepal is amazing, we definitely coming back again to visit!

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