The Tilicho Lake Trek is a 14-day adventure in Nepal’s Annapurna region that takes you to one of the world’s highest lakes — the beautiful Tilicho Lake.
This trek is known for being both challenging and rewarding. Since the lake lies in a remote part of the Annapurna range, it’s perfect for trekkers who enjoy exploring off-the-beaten-path routes. The Annapurna Tilicho Lake Trek offers a mix of adventure, nature, and culture that makes it a memorable journey for any traveler.
One of the biggest highlights of the trek is crossing the famous Thorong La Pass, which also connects to the Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake Trek route. The landscapes change dramatically as you climb higher — from lush forests and green hills to dry, rocky areas that resemble the Tibetan Plateau. When you finally reach Tilicho Lake, its calm, turquoise water surrounded by snow-capped peaks feels truly magical.
Along the way, you’ll pass through small villages where people from different ethnic groups live. Their warm hospitality and unique traditions make the trek even more special. You’ll also enjoy clear views of some of Nepal’s tallest peaks, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, and Himchuli.
Tilicho Lake holds great religious importance, too. Many Hindus visit it to take a holy bath, believing it purifies the soul. During the trek, you’ll also visit the sacred Muktinath Temple, an important site for both Hindus and Buddhists. The area is dotted with colorful monasteries and ancient gompas that reflect the region’s spiritual side.
The trail starts from Kathmandu and follows the famous Annapurna route to Chame. From there, you’ll trek to Manang — a beautiful mountain village known for its peaceful atmosphere. After resting and getting used to the altitude, the trail continues to Tilicho Base Camp. The path becomes narrower here, but the views get even more stunning.
After exploring Tilicho Lake, you’ll rejoin the main trail to cross Thorong La Pass (5,416 m). The journey then continues to Muktinath and Kagbeni before ending in Jomsom — a popular starting point for the Upper Mustang Jeep Tour. From Jomsom, you can either fly or drive back to Pokhara or Kathmandu. If you have less time, you can also return from Chame.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake Trek is one of the best ways to experience both adventure and the natural beauty of the Himalayas. It’s a challenging trek, but the scenery, culture, and sense of achievement make it worth every step.
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 gompas 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





