Trip Facts

Duration

17 days

Trip Grade

Difficult

Group Size

2-10

Highlights

  • Visit Tilicho Lake (4,919m) – one of the world’s highest and most stunning glacial lakes.
  • Walk through traditional Gurung and Manangi villages, rich in culture and Tibetan influence.
  • Experience the diverse Annapurna Circuit trail, with forests, valleys, and alpine landscapes.
  • Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m), one of Nepal’s highest and most iconic trekking passes.
  • Explore holy sites like Muktinath Temple, a sacred place for Hindus and Buddhists.
  • Enjoy breathtaking views of Annapurna, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and Dhaulagiri.
  • Witness changing landscapes – from lush green hills to rocky cliffs and snowy mountains.
  • A perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure in the Annapurna re

Overview

The Tilicho Lake Trek is a classic journey in the Annapurna region that combines cultural exploration, mountain adventure, and a once-in-a-lifetime visit to Tilicho Lake (4,919m) – the highest lake in Nepal accessible by trekking. Unlike regular Annapurna Circuit treks, this route adds a detour to Tilicho Lake, making it even more rewarding.

The trek starts from Besisahar, where green rice fields and waterfalls welcome you. As the trail moves higher, you pass through Jagat, Dharapani, Chame, and Pisang, reaching Manang – a beautiful village surrounded by Himalayan peaks. From Manang, the path takes you towards Khangsar and then to Tilicho Base Camp, before the steep climb to Tilicho Lake.

The turquoise-blue waters of Tilicho Lake, surrounded by towering snow-capped mountains, create an unforgettable memory. After visiting the lake, the journey reconnects with the main Annapurna Circuit trail, leading towards Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi, and the Thorong La Pass (5,416m). Crossing this high pass gives panoramic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges before descending to Muktinath and then to Jomsom, where the trek concludes.

This trek is best for those who want both cultural and natural beauty. It’s moderately challenging but manageable with proper preparation, and it rewards you with some of the most stunning Himalayan views in Nepal.

Itinerary

You will arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, where our friendly team will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. After checking in, you’ll have time to rest and freshen up from your flight. In the evening, you’ll meet your trekking guide who will give a briefing about the trek, permits, and packing tips. Later, you’ll enjoy a welcome dinner with traditional Nepali food. Overnight stay at a comfortable hotel in Kathmandu.

Today, you’ll start the journey with a scenic drive through winding highways alongside rivers, lush green valleys, and local villages. Along the way, you’ll see terraced fields, waterfalls, and the everyday lifestyle of rural Nepal. By late afternoon, you’ll reach Besisahar, the official starting point of the Annapurna Circuit. Overnight stay at a teahouse in Besisahar with dinner.

Your trek begins! The trail follows the Marsyangdi River, crossing suspension bridges and passing small settlements. The sound of waterfalls and chirping birds keep you company as you walk. You’ll pass villages like Bhulbhule and Ngadi before gently climbing up to Chamje. Overnight stay at a local teahouse with dinner.

The trail today climbs through rhododendron and bamboo forests, offering a refreshing environment. After reaching Tal village, you’ll notice the valley opening up into a wide, flat landscape with stone houses and mani walls. From here, the trail continues to Dharapani, a charming Gurung village where Tibetan culture starts to be more visible. Dinner and overnight at a teahouse.

Walking through pine and fir forests, you’ll cross several bridges and pass apple orchards along the way. Today’s trail gives excellent views of Lamjung Himal (6,983m) and Annapurna II. Chame is the headquarters of Manang District, so you’ll find more facilities here, along with a hot spring nearby for relaxation. Overnight at a teahouse with dinner.

The trek continues through a beautiful forested trail along the Marsyangdi River. One of the highlights today is seeing the Paungda Danda Rock Face, a massive curved rock wall that looks like a giant slope rising from the river. As you approach Pisang, the views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak dominate the skyline. Overnight at a teahouse with dinner.

There are two routes to Manang – the lower trail and the upper trail. The upper trail offers more scenic mountain views but is slightly tougher, while the lower trail is easier and faster. Either way, you’ll pass monasteries, prayer wheels, and villages before arriving at Manang, one of the most beautiful stops of the trek. The village has Tibetan-style houses and sits surrounded by Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. Dinner and overnight at a teahouse.

Today is a rest and acclimatization day to adjust to the higher altitude. You can explore local attractions such as the Gangapurna Lake, visit monasteries, or hike up to viewpoints like Bhojo Gompa. This helps your body prepare for higher altitudes ahead. In the afternoon, you can enjoy learning about local culture or relax at a café in the village. Dinner and overnight at a teahouse.

Leaving Manang, the trail climbs gently and then follows a path along the valley, dotted with monasteries and chortens. The landscape becomes more rugged, and the houses fewer. By afternoon, you’ll reach Khangsar, also called the “Last Village of Nepal” before Tilicho Lake. Dinner and overnight at a teahouse.

The trail today is adventurous, with rocky paths and some landslide-prone sections. You’ll walk carefully along the narrow trails, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and snowy mountains. After a steady climb, you’ll reach Tilicho Base Camp, a simple settlement of lodges serving trekkers. Dinner and overnight at a teahouse.

This is one of the most important days of the trek! Starting early, you’ll climb gradually towards Tilicho Lake, which takes about 3 hours. Once you reach the lake, you’ll be stunned by its turquoise-blue waters, surrounded by white snow peaks like Tilicho and Annapurna. After spending some time enjoying the lake, you’ll descend back to Tilicho Base Camp. Overnight at a teahouse with dinner.

Today you’ll retrace the trail back to Khangsar and then join the main Annapurna Circuit route again. The trail gradually climbs to Yak Kharka, a grazing land for yaks, where you’ll stay overnight at a teahouse with dinner.

A steady uphill walk takes you higher into alpine terrain. You’ll cross suspension bridges and pass herds of yaks grazing on the slopes. Thorong Phedi is a small settlement that serves as the last stop before the Thorong La Pass. Dinner and overnight at a teahouse.

This is the toughest yet most rewarding day of the trek. You’ll start very early, climbing slowly up to Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the trek. The views from the top include the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, and other peaks. After taking photos and celebrating, you’ll descend to Muktinath, a sacred site for Hindus and Buddhists. Dinner and overnight at a teahouse.

From Muktinath, the trail descends through arid landscapes and ancient villages like Kagbeni. Walking along the Kali Gandaki River, famous for its black stones and fossils, you’ll reach Jomsom, known for its strong winds and apple orchards. Dinner and overnight at a teahouse.

Take a short but scenic mountain flight to Pokhara, where you’ll return to greenery and warm weather. You can spend the day exploring Phewa Lake, visiting lakeside cafés, or relaxing at your hotel. Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Pokhara.

Today, you’ll either take a drive or a quick flight back to Kathmandu. In the evening, you’ll join a farewell dinner with cultural dances and Nepali food, celebrating your journey to Tilicho Lake and the Annapurna region. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Cost Details

Included

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off.
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara (twin-sharing basis).
  • Teahouse/lodge accommodation during trek.
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during trek.
  • Experienced, English-speaking trekking guide and porter.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card.
  • Domestic flights (Jomsom–Pokhara, Pokhara–Kathmandu).
  • First aid kit and necessary safety equipment.

Excluded

  • International flights.
  • Nepal entry visa fees.
  • Personal expenses (laundry, internet, hot shower, snacks, drinks).
  • Travel insurance (must cover high-altitude trekking).
  • Tips for guide and porter.
  • Extra accommodation or meals beyond the itinerary.

Useful Information

  1. Best Time to Do Tilicho Lake Trek
  • The ideal seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November).
  • In spring, the weather is stable, skies are clear, and rhododendrons bloom, making the trail colorful.
  • In autumn, the air is crisp and visibility is excellent, giving you the best Himalayan views.
  • Winter (December–February) is possible but very cold, and the lake is often frozen.
  • Monsoon (June–August) brings heavy rain and landslides, so it’s not recommended.
  1. Difficulty and Fitness Level
  • The Tilicho Lake Trek is rated moderate to challenging.
  • Trails can be rocky, steep, and sometimes narrow, especially near Tilicho Base Camp.
  • The highest point is Thorong La Pass (5,416m), which requires stamina.
  • Daily walking hours: 5–7 hours on average.
  • You don’t need to be an athlete, but regular walking, jogging, or stair climbing before the trek will help a lot.

  1. Altitude and Acclimatization
  • Since the trek goes above 4,900m, altitude sickness is a real risk.
  • Symptoms include headache, nausea, and tiredness.
  • To prevent it: walk slowly, drink 3–4 liters of water daily, and avoid alcohol.
  • Acclimatization days in Manang (3,540m) are included to help your body adjust.

  1. Accommodation on the Trek
  • You’ll stay in teahouses – small lodges run by local families.
  • Rooms are basic, usually with twin beds and blankets.
  • Toilets are mostly shared.
  • Higher up, facilities get simpler, and heating is limited to the dining area.

  1. Food During the Trek
  • Meals are provided at the teahouses along the route.
  • Popular food includes dal bhat (rice, lentils, curry, vegetables), noodles, pasta, soups, and Tibetan bread.
  • Breakfast usually includes porridge, eggs, pancakes, or toast.
  • Hot drinks like ginger tea, lemon tea, and coffee are widely available.

  1. Packing List Essentials
  • Clothing: Layered system – base layer, fleece, down jacket, and waterproof shell.
  • Footwear: Strong trekking boots, 2–3 pairs of warm socks, sandals for evenings.
  • Gear: Trekking poles, sleeping bag, backpack (35–50L), water bottle with purification tablets.
  • Other: Sunscreen, sunglasses, gloves, headlamp, and personal medicines.

  1. Internet, Charging & Money
  • Wi-Fi is available in some villages for a small fee, but don’t expect fast speed.
  • Charging electronics costs USD 2–4 per device in higher regions.
  • Carry extra power banks.
  • Bring enough Nepalese Rupees from Kathmandu or Pokhara, as ATMs are not available on the trail.

  1. Safety and Travel Insurance
  • Always trek with a licensed guide for safety, especially near landslide-prone areas.
  • Travel insurance is mandatory and must cover high-altitude trekking (up to 6,000m) and emergency helicopter evacuation.
  • Tip: Keep a copy of your passport, permits, and insurance in both digital and paper form.

  1. Culture and Local Etiquette
  • You’ll pass through villages of Gurung, Manangi, and Thakali communities.
  • Greet locals with a smile and “Namaste.”
  • Always walk clockwise around monasteries, mani walls, and stupas.
  • Dress modestly, especially in sacred places like Muktinath Temple.

  1. Environmental Responsibility
  • Tilicho Lake is considered sacred, so swimming or throwing anything in the water is not allowed.
  • Carry a reusable water bottle and use purification tablets instead of buying plastic bottles.
  • Dispose of trash properly – “Leave only footprints, take only memories.”

FAQs

It’s a moderately challenging trek with some steep sections and high altitude. With preparation, even first-time trekkers can do it.

Tilicho Lake (4,919m) is one of the highest lakes in Nepal and among the highest in the world accessible by trekking.

Not mandatory, but some hiking experience helps. Good fitness and stamina are important.

You need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a TIMS card.

Yes, during winter (December–February), the lake often freezes, creating magical scenery.

It can drop below -10°C at night in higher camps. Warm layers are essential.

Yes, solo trekkers can join groups or hire guides/porters for safety.