Tilicho Lake Trekking – 16 Days

Tilicho Lake Trekking is one of the most attractive trekking destinations in Nepal which passes through some of the most prominent places in the Annapurna Region with the highlight of the trek being Tilicho Lake (4920m) itself. The trek to the highest lake in the world is full of incredible views of breath-taking Himalayas, lush green hills, wide meadows, and traditional villages of the Buddhist community. Tilicho Lake Trekking is an ideal trek for nature lovers who seek peace in the lap of the Himalayas but do not mind a little tough walking.

Tilicho Lake Trekking route attaches with the Annapurna circuit route which is one of the world’s most popular trekking routes that starts from Chamje from where you follow the trails of Marsayangdi River leading to the villages of Tal, Dharapani, Chame, Pisang, Manang, Khangsar and finally Tilicho Lake. With every new destination, the climate and landscape are bound to change. The trail then takes to the tranquil Tilicho Lake sitting peacefully amid bare hills behind which the snowy peaks glitter.

Afterward, the trek again joins the main trekking route and moves on to the meadows of Yak Kharka. One of the highlights of this trek is the tough climb to cross the highest pass in Nepal, Thorung La Pass (5416m) from where a stunning view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges can be seen. Crossing Thorung La Pass (5416m), the trek leads to Muktinath temple, one of the holiest shrines of Hindus all over the world.

While trekking in Manang valley featured the continuous view of the Annapurna range, trekking in Mustang district features a splendid view of the Dhaulagiri range. Hence, enjoying the view of Dhaulagiri massif, you head down to the windy town of Jomsom via Kagbeni before flying above the deepest gorge in the world, Kali Gandaki River to arrive in Pokhara. Tilicho Lake Trekking, therefore, is an excellent chance to explore the Himalayan life in Nepal.

Tilicho Lake is one of those places that have had mythic connotations. The Annapurna undoubtedly provides some of the world’s best trekking routes, including as it does a greater variety of scenery and culture than can be found in any other comparable area.

Tilicho Lake Trekking Highlights

• Adventurous hike towards the highest lake in the world
• Incredible views of Mount Annapurna I (8091m), Manaslu (8163m)and Dhaulagiri (8167m).
• Observe the beautiful Manang village.
• Crossing Throng La Pass (5416m).
• Visit old Buddhist monastery in Braga.
• Ascending the Marshyangdi valley with the best view of Himalayas.

Tilicho Lake Trekking Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival Kathmandu and transfer to Hotel

Day 2: Drive to Beshisahar

Day 3: Drive to Chyamje and trek to Dharapani

Day 4: Dharapani to Chame

Day 5: Chame to Pisang 5:30 hours.

The day starts through deep forest in a steep and narrow valley, crosses a river on a long bridge at 2910meters. We then cross another bridge at 3040meters, from there the view of the soaring Paungda Danda rock face really begins to appear. From there the trail joins to climb to Pisang, which sprawls between 3200m & 3300meters. Overnight at Guesthouse.

Day 6: Pisang to Manang 5 hours.

Beyond Pisang, the trail climbs a steep ridge that affords good views of the Manang valley and Tilicho peak (7145m.). Descending past Manang’s airstrip at Hungde (3320m.), you come to a level area from where the north-east face of Annapurna III rises majestically above you. From the wide plains of the Sabje Khola Valley, Annapurna IV (7525m.) also becomes visible. Just beyond this point, you cross the considerably reduced flow of the Marshyangdi Khola via a wooden bridge to the tiny village of Mungji. After a short steep climb, you reach Manang which is a surprisingly large village for this remote mountain region. Stay overnight at a lodge.

Day 7: Trek to Khangsar Village (3700m) 5 hours.

After Manang, we will leave for Khangsar. We will go by a path that goes along the Khangsar River. Crossing the river, we will reach Khangsar village. This village is a very old-styled Tibetan influenced village and is also known as olden type villages of Nepal. Overnight at lodge/guesthouse.

Day 8: Trekking to Tilicho Base Camp (4200meters) 5 hours.

We continue from a western pass on a large path, passing a Gompa (monastery). The route ahead goes on a recently constructed path up towards a high ridge. At one point is an intersection. One path maintains the altitude, traversing the slopes towards a place where the valley is narrow; the other continues to ascend towards the line of the ridge. The former is the old path, and is much more difficult as it goes on 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 screed 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 4,200m. This is where rest out for an Overnight at a guesthouse.

Day 9: Trek to Tilicho Lake (5200 meters) and back down to Tilicho Base Camp (4200meters) 6 hours.

Today is the main day of our trekking. We will trek up to Tilicho Lake. After having breakfast, we will hike to Tilicho Lake in the early morning, as the wind may interrupt us in case of delaying. Tilicho Lake is a cold place and is recorded as the lake at the highest altitude in the world. After spending some joyful moments at Tilicho Lake, we will descend to the Tilicho base camp. We bunk out tonight by this lovely lake at our guesthouse.

Day 10: Trek to Yak Kharka (4000 meters) 5 hours.

As we hike slowly down from base camp, the trail ascends by nearly 500m to Yak Kharka. We make the climb steadily through Tenki Manang, leaving the Marsyangdi Valley. Continuing along the Jarsang Khola Valley, we reach Yak Kharka at 4,000m. as we hike by we observe that Herds of yaks and vegetations appear to thin out hereabouts. Overnight at our guesthouse.

Day 11: Trek to Thorong Phedi (4450 meters) 5 hours.

Leaving Yak Kharka, you climb gradually to a ridge before descending to the headwaters of the Marshyangdi and crossing via a covered wooden bridge. After a short ascent up the mountain path on the right bank, you follow a narrow trail across an unstable spree slope and then descend to Thorong Phedi. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 12: Trek to Muktinath (3800 meters) via Thorung La pass (5416 meters) 8 hours.

You need to work hard to reach Muktinath as today we will walk for about 8 hours. Though it is hard, it is the most special day of our trekking. We will start our journey in the early morning at about 4 am so that we can reach Thorang La pass at about 9-10 am. If we delay it then the weather may create some difficulties. We will climb steeply which is not so difficult. But a high attitude and the massive snows around can cause some problems. After we climb for 4 hours, we will be at the top of Thorang La pass marked by the chortens and prayer flags and also you can enjoy stunning views. After this, it takes some 4 hours more to reach the holy place – Muktinath. Muktinath is a pilgrimage spot for both Hindus and Buddhists. It is believed that you can be free from all your pains and sorrows after you visit this so-called holy site. You can bathe under the 108 waterspouts around the temple. You can also visit Jwala Mai Temple where you can see natural spring and an everlasting flame fueled by natural gas. Overnight at guesthouse.

Day 13: Trek to Jomsom (2720meters) 5 hours.

Today is the last day of our trek on these beautiful mountains, we will move through the trail of Kagbeni or Lupra to reach Jomsom. This day we will trek along Kali Gandaki River to reach Jomsom. Jomsom is a strong windy little town in a cold valley. You can get startling memorable views of Tilicho Mountain and beautiful wet hills. Overnight at lodge.

Day 14: Early in the morning Fly to Pokhara

Day 15: Sightseeing in Kathmandu

Day 16: Departure

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Tilicho Lake Trekking take?

The duration of the Tilicho Lake Trekking can vary depending on the itinerary chosen and the pace of the trekkers. On average, the trek takes around 12-14 days to complete. This includes the time needed to reach the starting point of the trek, as well as any acclimatization days that may be necessary.

• The duration of the trek can vary depending on the itinerary and pace of trekkers
• On average, the trek takes 12-14 days to complete
• The duration includes the time needed to reach the starting point and acclimatization days

What is the best time to go for Tilicho Lake Trekking?

The best time to go for Tilicho Lake Trekking is during the months of September to November and March to May. These months offer the most favourable weather conditions, with clear skies and mild temperatures. However, it is important to note that the trek can also be done during other months, but the trail may be more challenging due to snow and ice.

• The best time to go for Tilicho Lake Trekking is between September to November and March to May
• These months offer the most favourable weather conditions with clear skies and mild temperatures
• The trek can also be done during other months but the trail may be more challenging due to snow and ice.

What equipment and gear do I need for Tilicho Lake Trekking?

For Tilicho Lake Trekking, it is important to have the proper equipment and gear. This includes:

• Trekking boots with good ankle support
• Warm clothing, including a down jacket and insulated pants
• A good quality sleeping bag and sleeping mat
• A waterproof and breathable jacket and pants
• A daypack and a duffle bag for carrying your gear
• Headlamp and extra batteries
• Water purification tablets or a water filter
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Trekking poles
• Personal first aid kit
• Trekking boots with good ankle support
• Warm clothing, including a down jacket and insulated pants
• A good quality sleeping bag and sleeping mat
• A waterproof and breathable jacket and pants
• A daypack and a duffle bag for carrying your gear, Headlamp and extra batteries, Water purification tablets or a water filter, Sunscreen and sunglasses, Trekking poles, Personal first aid kit

What are the physical requirements for Tilicho Lake Trekking?

Tilicho Lake Trekking is considered to be a challenging trek, and it is important to have a good level of physical fitness before embarking on the trek. The trek involves long days of hiking at high altitude, and trekkers should be prepared for steep and difficult terrain. It is recommended to engage in regular physical activity and cardio training in the weeks leading up to the trek. Additionally, trekkers should be able to carry a backpack weighing up to 15 kg.

It is also important to be aware of the risks associated with high-altitude trekking, such as altitude sickness. It is recommended to consult with a doctor and to acclimatize properly during the trek to minimize these risks.

• Tilicho Lake Trekking is considered to be a challenging trek
• Trekkers should have a good level of physical fitness before embarking on the trek
• The trek involves long days of hiking at high altitudes and trekkers should be prepared for steep and difficult terrain
• Regular physical activity and cardio training in the weeks leading up to the trek is recommended
• Trekkers should be able to carry a backpack weighing up to 15 kg
• It is important to be aware of the risks associated with high-altitude trekking and acclimatize properly during the trek to minimize these risks.