Overview The Tilicho Lake Trek is a mesmerizing adventure that takes you to one of the highest lakes in the world, nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Annapurna region in Nepal. This trek is also a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and challenging trails, making it a dream destination for adventure enthusiasts. The journey begins in the vibrant city of Kathmandu, where you soak in the rich cultural heritage before embarking on the trek. The trail passes through lush green valleys, terraced fields, and charming traditional villages, providing a glimpse into the rural lifestyle of the Nepalese…
The Tilicho Lake Trek is a mesmerizing adventure that takes you to one of the highest lakes in the world, nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Annapurna region in Nepal. This trek is also a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and challenging trails, making it a dream destination for adventure enthusiasts.
The journey begins in the vibrant city of Kathmandu, where you soak in the rich cultural heritage before embarking on the trek. The trail passes through lush green valleys, terraced fields, and charming traditional villages, providing a glimpse into the rural lifestyle of the Nepalese people.
As you ascend higher, the scenery becomes more dramatic, with towering snow-capped peaks, cascading waterfalls, and dense forests. The highlight of the trek is the Tilicho Lake, situated at an elevation of 4,919 meters (16,138 feet). The azure blue waters of the lake surrounded by majestic Himalayan peaks create a surreal and awe-inspiring sight that leaves trekkers spellbound.
The trek also includes crossing the challenging Thorong La Pass, standing at an altitude of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet). This pass offers panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, making all the effort worthwhile. The thrill of reaching the pass is coupled with a sense of accomplishment and the opportunity to interact with fellow trekkers from different parts of the world.
Throughout the journey, you will be accompanied by experienced guides who share their knowledge of the region’s flora, fauna, and cultural significance. You’ll have the chance to stay in teahouses along the trail, experiencing the warm hospitality of the locals and indulging in delicious Nepali cuisine.
The Tilicho Lake Trek is a challenging adventure that requires a good level of physical fitness and acclimatization to the high altitude. However, the rewards are immense, with unforgettable vistas, cultural immersion, and a sense of personal achievement. This trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows you to connect with nature, conquer the mountains, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Today is our driving day to start the Tiliho lake trek. We can start the trek from Pokhara or Kathmandu. we drive by local bus in Prithvi Highway, about 6 hours drive till Besisahar. A steep and slippery trail runs up and down through paddy fields, passing through tiny Tibetan villages, the trail ascends through the rhododendron forest to Jagat (1330m).
The trail continues zigzag way across the right side Marsyangdi river view and after crossing again suspension bridge in the Marsyangdi River the trail goes uphill and gradually steep flat and get to Tal. Tal is one of the famous places for valley views and water falls. We enter Manang district, trail continues through barley, rice, potato fields and pine forests past the village of Khotro (1860m). Descend to a forest to a long suspension bridge and very pleasant courtyards of Alpine. Passing through Karte and Nache village, the new trail continues a stone Kani making a formal entrance to Dharapani. Dharapani is one junction way for Manaslu round and also big villages in the Manang valley.
After registering in ACAP office, gradually climbs over a spur. Walk to Bagarchhap (2160m) through a forest of blue pine, spurce, hemlock, maple and oak. The trail stays on the south bank of the river, climbing through forests to Danaque (2210m), valley surrounded by apples orchards. Climb steeply crisscrossing section of the road through rhododendron forest. The trail climbs along the mule track through in and fir forest and then follows the river for a time amongst the higher oak and maple trees. At the entrance to Chame is along wall with many prayer wheels; the administrative headquarter of the Manang district. There are fine views of Lamjung, Annapurna II/IV (7525m). Stay overnight at guest house.
Today, take a scenic walk from Chame to Pisang. Stroll through the woods, and note the views of the peaks soaring above. Once in Pisang, explore the village, with its Tibetan-inscribed mani stones and gompa. Take a walk up to Upper Pisang for amazing views of Annapurna II and Annapurna III.
Enjoy the evening at your leisure, and retire to your teahouse for the night.
Today, embark on a 6-hour walk past a series of unique and colorful Chortens to Manang, which nearly reaches 11,500 feet in elevation. Manang is the headquarters of the region, and contains a village of around 500, flat-roofed houses, along with bakeries and lodges for trekkers passing through to enjoy. It is dominated by high peaks—Annapurna III and Gangapurna tower over it—and a dramatic icefall sits just across the river. There is an old Gompa on the edge of town to explore, along with many local teahouses, and some atmospheric, winding streets in the village leading out toward the Thorung La.
Upon arrival, check in to your tea house, take a shower, and enjoy a cold beer. Attend a 3 pm lecture on the altitude, hosted by the Himalayan Rescue Association, if interested. In the evening, attend an assembly of Manang-born photographer Tashi R. Ghale, accompanied by a slideshow and a video of the area.
Today, there is plenty to do around Manang. However, a short hike (about 1,000 feet or so) is recommended, in order to get acclimated to the altitude. Some activities include the following:
Enjoy your guesthouse as well—a sunny and warm place to gaze at the peaks in the afternoon. Following a day of exploration, the evening is yours to enjoy.
Today, the journey continues toward Tilicho Lake, situated on the west end of Manang. Follow the path down to the river. After crossing the Khangsar Khola, reach Khangsar and head toward the village region, which is still very traditional Tibet. Trek to Shree Kharka for your overnight stay in a teahouse.
Later in the afternoon, hike up to see some Himalayan blue sheep, as well as the surrounding mountains. The evening is on your own.
Today, after passing a monastery, continue the trek on a recently constructed path, up toward a high ridge. At one point, there is an intersection. One path maintains the altitude, traversing the slopes toward a place where the valley is narrow; the other continues to ascend toward the line of the ridge. The former is the old path, and is much more difficult, as it continues on a steep screed; the latter is the new path that goes a completely different way. Continue along the new path, reach a high crest, and descend on switchbacks carved out through the slopes to a side valley of the main valley. At its bottom is a brook. On the other side of it is a building known as the Tilicho Base Camp, at an elevation of 13,780 feet.
Following the trek, retire to your teahouse for the evening.
Today, wake up for an early start to avoid the wind. To reach Tilicho Lake takes another 3-4 hours. Tilicho Lake is a cold, barren place in the afternoon and is claimed as the highest lake of the world. Upon arrival, spend some time around Tilicho Lake, and snap some photos and videos of the surreal surroundings.
Then, return the same way back to the base camp to have lunch. After lunch, walk along the riverside, across the steep landslide area to Siri Kharka. When you get to the teahouse, you can enjoy a hot shower and a cold beer, and relax for the rest of the day into the evening.
Although typical trekkers along the Annapurna Circuit continue their trek to Yak Kharka, continue toward the Manang village, instead. Walk along the riverside and pass the monastery. Stop for lunch in Khangsar before you reach Manang village.
Then, enjoy some free time—along with another hot shower and a cold refreshment. You have the option to enjoy a movie, as well, on a small projector from a theater from the top of the world.
Today, depart Manang on a Jeep. Pass through apple farms and small villages along the way, and stop for dhal bhat, a traditional Nepalese dish, for lunch. Stop at Besisahar, the day’s ending point, and stay there overnight. Freshen up and relax at the hotel in the evening.
In the early morning, make your return to Kathmandu by private Jeep transfer. The trip typically takes 5 hours. After checking in to the hotel in Kathmandu, you are free to spend your time relaxing and/or shopping. Do some more exploration of the area, further discovering the monasteries and meeting the lamas. Trade emails with travel companions, organize your photos and watch the sunset from the hotel terrace with a coffee or a beer. Enjoy your last night in Nepal at your leisure.
It’s time to say farewell to Nepal. Soak up your last moments in Kathmandu with breakfast in a café, a city stroll, and/or souvenir shopping. A travel representative will meet you at your hotel and drive you to the airport for your return flight home. Keep in mind, it is ideal to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours prior to departure. Safe Travels!
In the Above Cost It Includes:
1. Airport Pick-up and Drop Off,
2. Licensed and trained trekking guides,
3. potters for carrying goods and supplies,
4. 4 Nights Accommodation in the 3 Star Hotel in Kathmandu with B & B. (Bed
& Breakfast)
5. All accommodation during the trek.
6. All meals and hot beverages during the trek.
7. Transportation to and from trail head.
8. All necessary documents and permits for trekking (where applicable)
9. National Park/Conservation Area entry Permit, Equipment such as tents And Mattresses, Cooking Equipment, Camp site charges, Insurance, and
equipment for the staffs.
10. Coordination of quick Rescue service (Costs covered by your Insurance Plan)
11. Trekking staffs wages etc.
Services and Cost Does not Included in Price:
1. International Airfares,
2. Travel/Trekking Insurance,
3. Excess baggage charges More than 16kg and hand bag more than 5 kg in
domestic flights.
4. Visa fees.
5. Airport Departure Taxes.
6. Drinks (Cold and Alcoholic) Rescue charge.
7. Tips for The staffs.
8. Expenses of Personnel nature and Permit and Liaison officer fee (where Applicable.
9. Meals during stay in the Kathmandu.
10. Domestic Ticket Etc.
The trek starts from the city of Besisahar and follows the classic Annapurna Circuit trail until it reaches the village of Manang. From Manang, the trail heads towards the stunning Tilicho Lake, which is located at an altitude of 4,919 meters. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is considered a holy site by the local people.
The trek usually takes around 12-14 days to complete, and the best time to undertake the trek is from March to May and from September to November when the weather is stable and the skies are clear. The trek is considered challenging, and trekkers need to have a good level of physical fitness and some previous trekking experience.
Overall, the Tilicho Lake Trek is an excellent choice for trekkers looking for a challenging and rewarding trekking experience in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is a great way to explore the diverse landscape, culture, and natural beauty of this stunning region of the Himalayas.
