Tilicho Lake Trek

Overview And Highlights

Trip Facts

Trip Type

Lodge / Camping

Grade

Strenuous

Altitude

5315 m.

Transportation

Bus/Jeep and Jomsom-Pokhara flight

Group Size

1 or more

Best Season

Spring and Autumn

Duration

14 Days

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Tilicho Lake trek is the off-the-beaten trek and is combination of Tilicho lake with the popular Annapurna Circuit trek. Tilicho Lake (4919m.) is known as the world highest lake. The lake is situated at a stunning location in the Annapurna region at an altitude of 5000m.

The Manang village is the tourist hub for the Annapurna circuit and Tilicho Lake trek. The Manang valley is inhabitant of Manangi people, who are influenced by Tibetan religion. Manang valley of Annapurna region is famous for the hospitality of local people and breathtaking spectacular panoramic view of the Himalaya ranges including deepest gorge of the world formed between the Annapurna I and the Dhaulagiri. Similarly, the dramatic view of Tilicho Peak, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhre, and Manaslu can also be seen along the trail. The rugged and picturesque trails show you crystal-clear Tilicho Lake, wild flowers, terraced rice fields and close and superb giant Himalayan panorama.

Since this is a strenuous trek, a good level of fitness is required to achieve the trek.

The best time to do this trek is around March to May and September to December.

Itinerary Expand All Close All

Day 1 : Drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule (840m.) via Besisahar, takes about eight hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

840

After early morning breakfast, our guide will pick you up from the hotel and take you to the bus station. Drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule via Besisahar, takes about eight hours. During the drive you will follow Trisuli and Marshyangdi Rivers passing through several villages and you will enjoy views of green hills and snowcapped mountains. From Kathmandu to Besisahar is paved road and from there to Bhulbule is graveled. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 2 : Trek from Bhulbhule to Chamje (1410m.) takes about seven hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

1410

Ahead the Marshyangdi valley forms a steep V-shape. Follow the winding mountain path down to Syange (1100m) and then climb steeply through sheer cliff-face some 200-300m above the riverbed. From here it is a few ups and downs before you reach Chamje. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 3 : Trek from Chamje (1410m.) to Dharapani (1960m.) takes about six hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

1960

The first part of the trail descends to the Marshyangdi river at which point cross a suspension bridge and make a steep climb to Sattale (1550m). From here descend to a grassy riverbank that leads to the village of Tal (1700m.) where you will find hotels and teahouses. Beyond Tal, the valley narrows and the path follows winding cliffs. You will pass through the small village of Karte (1900m.) and cross a suspension bridge as you approach the Mani entrance to Dharapani (1960m.). Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 4 : Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2675m.) takes about five and half hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

2675

Trek along the Dudh Khola that originates from the south face of Mt. Manaslu. With Annapurna II as your backdrop, you will arrive at the village of Bagarchhap, distinct with its prayer flags fluttering in the breeze and Buddhist monastery. Continue to climb through forests of pine and oak, before passing by Danaque (2210m.). The trail goes through flat path until you reach Chame where there are government offices, shops and hotels. Chame is the administrative headquarters of the Manang district. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 5 : Trek from Chame to Pisang (3100m.) takes about five hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

3100

With Lamjung Himal (6893m) sparkling in the morning sun, you climb the path up the valley, passing a huge apple orchard. The trail then enters fir and pine forest, and emerges out to a high, rocky cliff which is extremely steep that leads to Bhratang (2950m.). You now walk through a short stretch of pine forest as the path opens up to a wonderful vista of Annapurna II as well as Pisang Peak (6091m). Afterwards follow a long section of Mani wall to lower village of Pisang. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 6 : Trek from Pisang to Manang (3440m.) takes about five and half hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

3440

Beyond Pisang, the trail climbs a steep ridge that affords good views of the Manang valley and Tilicho peak (7145m). Descending to Hungde (3320m), you come to wide plain of the Sabje Khola Valley from where the north-east face of Annapurna III and Annapurna IV (7525m) rises majestically. Further to this point you cross Marshyangdi Khola over a wooden bridge to the tiny village of Mungji. Mungji has large Chortens and mani walls and is surrounded by tall peaks of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Gangapurna (7455m.) and Tilicho Peak (7145m.). A short steep climb from here reaches Manang. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 7 : Rest day at Manang.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

3440

Today is an important rest day for acclimatization before crossing the Thorong La Pass. There are optional walks such as crossing the river to see the tremendous icefall coming down from the Annapurna, or climbing high above the village for a full panorama of the Annapurna range and the Manang Valley. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 8 : Trek from Manang to Khangsar (3800m.) takes approximately five hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Camp/Lodge

Elevation

3800

The path is gradual descent and you cross a suspension bridge over Jharsing Khola (stream). You trek through dry land though you can see shrubs on the both sides. The panoramic views of Annapurna range completely mesmerize you. Khangsar is a Gurung village. There you find a small monastery, chorten, Mani walls and prayer flags. Stay overnight in camp/lodge.

Day 9 : Trek from Khangsar to Tilicho Base Camp (4150m.) takes about four hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Camp/Lodge

Elevation

4150

Trek from Khangsar to Tilicho Base camp (4150m.) takes about four and half hours. The path is covered by small crystals and shrubs can be seen on both sides. From here you can also enjoy the closer and panoramic views of Tilicho Mountain and many others. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 10 : Trek from Tilicho Base camp to Tilicho Lake (4920m.) takes about four hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Camp

Elevation

4920

Trek from Tilicho Base Camp to Tilicho Lake (4,920m) takes around four hours. The hike is a challenging yet breathtaking journey through rugged Himalayan terrain. As you ascend, dramatic views of the Annapurna and Nilgiri ranges unfold before you, gradually leading to the stunning turquoise waters of Tilicho Lake — one of the highest lakes in the world. This is not just a visual highlight but also a spiritually enriching destination, offering peace and solitude amid towering peaks. Stay overnight at camp.

Day 11 : Trek from Tilicho Lake to Mesokanto Pass (5315m.) takes about six hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Camp

Elevation

5315

The trail is quite narrow and you trek over an icy path. The panoramic views of Annapurna range, Tilicho, Dhaulagiri along with more than ten mountains completely mesmerize you. Stay overnight in camp.

Day 12 : Trek from Mesokanto Pass to Jomsom (2741m.) via Thimi (2760m.) which takes about six hours.

Food

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accomodation

Lodge

Elevation

2760

From Mesokanto Pass, the trail goes steep down to Jomsom. This day you trek through pine forest. Before you reach Jomsom, you cross Thimi inhabited by mostly Buddhists. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 13 : Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara takes about 25 minutes.

Food

Breakfast

Accomodation

Hotel

Elevation

914

The flight is a scenic one with panoramic views of Himalayan peaks, especially Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri etc. and Kaligandaki River. The flight to/from Jomsom happens only in the morning because of high wind speed in afternoon time that restricts smooth flight take off and landing. Stay overnight at hotel in Pokhara

Day 14 : After breakfast early morning, drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu that takes about seven hours.

Food

Breakfast & Lunch

Elevation

1400

En route, you will enjoy the mountain views, green sceneries, rice terrace fields, vegetable fields and people being engaged in their daily life activities. If you choose to fly back to Kathmandu, it takes about 25 minutes. There are several flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara from morning to afternoon.

What Is Included ?

Airport pick-up and drop-off services by private vehicle
1 night hotel accommodation with breakfast in Pokhara
Trekking guide/s
One porter for every 2 trekking participants (1 porter carries 25 kilograms of luggage)
All meals three times a day (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
Accommodation in lodge and 2 nights in camp during the trek
Trekking equipment: Tents, mattresses, sleeping bags, down jackets, duffle bags and trekking poles
Camping and cooking utensils for 2 nights as per the itinerary
Entry Permit for Annapurna conservation Area (ACAP)
Trekkers' Information Management system (TIMS) card
All land transportation: - Kathmandu to Bhulbhule by bus/jeep. Pokhara to Kathmandu by A/C tourist deluxe bus
Flight ticket from Jomsom to Pokhara
Insurance and equipment for all guides and porters
First aid kit
Tax, VAT and our service charge
Rescue assistance (In case of emergency, we will organize prompt and professional rescue services. To arrange timely evacuation/rescue by helicopter, you must be well insured from a reliable travel insurance company that covers both helicopter evacuation and medical treatment cost.)
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu with live cultural performance at authentic Nepali restaurant on the last evening

What Is Excluded?

Personal nature expenses (Telephone calls, internet, toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beers and any alcoholic beverages)
Travel insurance
Tips for involved staffs
Lunch and dinner in Pokhara
Meals and hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (even in case of early arrival or late departure, early return from trekking due to any personal reason than the scheduled itinerary)

Tilicho Lake Trek Altitude Profile

Route Map

FAQs

Tilicho Lake lies in the Manang district of western Nepal, beneath Tilicho Peak and along the route of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. It’s located in a glacial basin at nearly 5,000 meters, surrounded by towering peaks including Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Khangsar Kang. It's considered one of the highest lakes in the world and is both naturally and culturally significant.

The full Tilicho Lake Trek usually takes 10 to 16 days, depending on the route. If done as part of the Annapurna Circuit, it typically includes a side trip to the lake from Manang via Khangsar and Tilicho Base Camp, then rejoins the main trail for the Thorong La Pass (5,416m). Some choose to return the same way after visiting the lake, shortening the trek by a few days.

This is a moderately to highly challenging trek, primarily due to the altitude and steep, landslide-prone terrain on the way to Tilicho Base Camp. Though there are no technical climbs involved, trekkers need to be physically fit, prepared for cold temperatures, and comfortable hiking for several hours a day. Proper acclimatization is essential to safely reach Tilicho Lake.

Yes, since Tilicho Lake is located at almost 5,000 meters, there's a real risk of altitude sickness, especially if you ascend too quickly. That’s why most itineraries include rest and acclimatization days in Manang. Symptoms like headache, nausea, and dizziness should be taken seriously. Going slow, staying hydrated, and knowing when to descend are crucial for safety.

The best seasons are:

Spring (March–May): Pleasant temperatures, blossoming rhododendrons, and clear skies.
Autumn (late September–November): Crisp mountain views and stable weather.

The trek offers dramatic and ever-changing landscapes—from lush green valleys and alpine meadows to rugged cliffs and icy peaks. The trail to Tilicho is especially dramatic, with narrow paths cut into sheer rock faces above the Marsyangdi River and below towering snow walls. Tilicho Lake itself is surreal in its stillness and color, set against stark, snow-covered ridges.

Tilicho Lake is often mistakenly referred to as the highest lake in the world, but technically it’s not. However, it is the highest lake in Nepal that’s accessible to trekkers without mountaineering gear and one of the highest glacial lakes globally. Its beauty, setting, and spiritual significance make it feel like the top of the world nonetheless.

You’ll need:

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)

The main risks are:

Altitude sickness, especially near the lake and if continuing over Thorong La
Landslide-prone sections between Khangsar and Tilicho Base Camp, which require careful footing
Cold temperatures and snow, particularly at night or during winter

Yes, and in fact, most trekkers combine the Tilicho Lake side trip with the Annapurna Circuit, continuing onward from Tilicho Base Camp via Sri Kharka back to Yak Kharka and eventually over Thorong La Pass to Muktinath. This variation adds depth and adventure to the classic circuit, though it also adds 2–3 extra days.

If you're looking for a trek that combines drama, solitude, and altitude, the Tilicho Lake Trek is a fantastic choice. It’s less crowded than Everest or Annapurna Base Camp, offers a greater sense of wilderness, and leads to a lake that feels almost otherworldly in its isolation and beauty. It’s a perfect choice for adventurers seeking something more remote, but still within the reach of teahouse trekking.

Nepal Environmental Treks & Expedition ensures you to provide a well planned itinerary for Tilicho Lake trek. An experienced and highly professional climbing guide will be assigned to each climbing member. All necessary logistics will be taken care from our side. However, we expect to maintain good health and physical condition as well as well good mental preparation from your side.

Additional Information

Below is a list of equipment and clothing required for trekking. The necessity of these items depends on the type, altitude, timing and destination of trekking. Appropriate trekking gears are not only required for the comfort/pleasure of your trek but also to improve safety factor. Please have a look over these items in order to fully prepare and thoroughly enjoy the trekking.

General Items:

Daypack, Rucksack, Sleeping bag, Duffel bag, Walking Poles, walking boots, sandals, Toiletries (Soaps, Toilet papers, Sanitizers, toothpaste, tooth brush, etc.)

Clothing Items:

Thermal underwear, Down jacket, Shorts, Trekking trousers, Towels, Woolen gloves, Gaiters, Fleece jacket or Pullover, Wind/water proof jacket, Raincoat, Warm socks, buff

Sun-worn Items:

Sun hat, Sunglasses, Snow goggles, Sunscreen, Lip balm

Gadgets:

Headlamp, Flash light, Binoculars, Cameras (chargers and batteries),

Liquid/Snacks:

Water bottle/bladder, Water purification Iodine tablets, Energy bars and snacks

Medical Essentials:

First Aid Kit

Optional:

Altimeter, Compass, Binoculars, Books/magazines, GPS, Pocket knife, Candles (for lodges), Notebook with pencil/pen, etc

Additional items for camping trek:

Tent, Stove and fuel, Utensils for cooking, eating and drinking, sleeping mattresses

Note: We can also provide sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, walking poles, and First Aid Kit in case if you don’t have one. These items are inclusive of total package price.

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