Overview of Tilicho Lake Trek:
The Tilicho Lake Trek, also known as the Tilicho Tal Trek, is a breathtaking adventure in Nepal’s Annapurna region. This trek leads to Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world at 4,919 meters, nestled amidst stunning Himalayan peaks. It’s a challenging yet rewarding journey that combines rugged trails, diverse landscapes, and cultural encounters with local Gurung and Thakali communities.
The trek typically starts from Besisahar, passing through lush forests, terraced fields, and high-altitude deserts before reaching the pristine turquoise waters of Tilicho Lake. Spanning 8-12 days, it involves steep ascents and descents, requiring good physical fitness and acclimatization. The highlight is the mesmerizing view of the lake against snow-capped mountains like Annapurna and Tilicho Peak, making it a must-do for trekkers seeking natural beauty and adventure.
Trip facts of Tilicho Lake Trek:
Destination
Nepal/ Annapurna
Duration
17 days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Activities
Tour and Trek
Accommodation
Hotels / Tea House
Food
Breakfast /Lunch /Dinner
Best Season
Sept to Nov / Mar to May
Max.altitude
4919m
Transportation
Drive/ Flight
Group Size
1 to 14++
Map
Highlight of Tilicho Lake Trek – 17 Days
- Tilicho Tal: Visit one of the world’s highest lakes at 4,919 meters.
- Tilicho Lake Trek: Embark on a challenging adventure through Nepal’s Himalayas.
- Tilicho Lake Nepal: Marvel at the lake’s stunning turquoise waters.
- Trek to Tilicho Lake: Enjoy breathtaking views of Annapurna and Tilicho Peak.
- Tilicho Lake Annapurna Circuit: Explore diverse landscapes on this iconic route.
- Cultural Immersion: Meet Gurung and Thakali communities and their traditions.
- Varied Terrains: Pass through forests, fields, and high-altitude deserts.
- Wildlife Encounters: Spot Himalayan wildlife like blue sheep and yaks.
- Photography Paradise: Capture dramatic mountain vistas and scenic beauty.
- Physical Endurance: Test your fitness on this 8-12 day high-altitude trek.
Tilicho Lake Trek – 17 Days Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Nepal and Transfer to Hotel
- Warm welcome by our representative upon arrival in Nepal, followed by a smooth transfer to your hotel.
- Enjoy leisure time to relax or explore vibrant cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Lumbini.
Day 2: City Tour and Trek Preparation
- Discover the charm of the city with cultural highlights and local experiences.
- Prepare for your trek with a detailed evening briefing and ensure all equipment and permits are ready.
Day 3: Drive Kathmandu to Besishahar (800m), Drive to Bulbule and Trek to Nadi (890m) (188km, 7hrs drive , 1hrs walk )
- Start with a scenic drive along Trishuli and Marshyangdi rivers, enjoying green hills, villages, and Annapurna views.
- Trek from Bulbule to Nadi, a peaceful village by the Marshyangdi River, surrounded by farms and greenery.
Day 4: Jeep Drive from Besisahar to Chame (2650m) (67Km, 5 Hrs Drive)
- The drive from Besisahar to Chame offers stunning views of the Annapurna range, providing a preview of the trek’s beauty.
- Narrow cliff-side roads create a thrilling experience while helping trekkers acclimatize to Chame’s altitude for a perfect trek start.
Day 5: Chame to Pisang (3250m) (13Km, 6 Hrs)
- Cross the Marshyangdi River, walk through pine forests, and pass Bratang village with views of towering cliffs.
- Reach Dhukur Pokhari, then walk a flat trail to Pisang for stunning views of Annapurna Himalayas and Pisang Peak.
Day 6: Pisang to Manang (3540m) (15Km, 7 Hrs) / (19Km, 9 Hrs) 2 options
- Lower Route: Easy and flat, perfect for porters, passing Humde and Braga with views of Pisang and Tilicho Peaks, meeting in Manang.
- Higher Route: Challenging trail with stunning views of Annapurna II, IV, Pisang, and Tilicho Peaks, passing through Gharu, Ngawal, and traditional villages before reaching Manang.
Day 7: Acclimatization day in Manang
- Climb higher and sleep lower to help your body adjust to the altitude. Attend Himalayan Rescue Association’s lectures for helpful advice.
- Gangapurna View Point: Hike to the Gangapurna Glacier Viewpoint for breathtaking and stunning views of Annapurna and Tilicho Peak.
- Ice Lake: Trek to Ice Lake for incredible scenery at 4,620 meters
- Manang Village and Local Culture: Explore Manang Village, a key acclimatization stop, offering beautiful views and a glimpse into local culture.
Day 8: Trek from Manang to Shree Kharka (4080m) (8Km, 6Hrs)
- Journey from Manang to Shree Kharka passes Khangsar village with stunning mountain views and diverse landscapes.
- Enjoy a mix of adventure and beauty on this moderate to challenging trek.
Day 9: Trek from Shree Khakra to Tilicho lake base camp (4150m) (6Km, 4Hrs)
- Stay cautious of falling rocks due to strong winds and wildlife like blue sheep while trekking to Tilicho Base Camp.
- The rocky trail is challenging but offers stunning Himalayan views that make the effort worthwhile.
Day 10: Trek from Tilicho Base camp to Tilicho Lake (4920m) and trek back to base camp (12Km, 7Hrs both way)
- The trail to Tilicho Lake is rocky and steep but the stunning view at the lake makes the effort worth it.
- Trekkers can enjoy the breathtaking scenery, take photos, and return to base camp along the same path.
Day 11: Trek from Tilicho base camp to Yak Kharka (4050m) (12Km, 7Hrs)
- Trek from Tilicho Base Camp to Yak Kharka, enjoying stunning views of Annapurna Himalayas and grazing yaks.
- Join the Annapurna Circuit Trek at Yak Kharka, offering scenic landscapes and unforgettable mountain vistas.
Day 12: Trek from Yak Kharka to Throng Phedi (4550) (6Km, 4 Hrs)
- Cross suspension bridges and navigate landslide zones to reach Thorong Phedi.
- For better acclimatization, climb to High Camp and rest early for the 4 AM start to Thorong La Pass.
Day 13: Trek from Throng Phedi – Thorong La pass (5416m) and Muktinath (3800m) (17Km, 10 Hrs)
- Early morning trek to Thorong La pass (5416m) with stunning views, prayer flags, and chortens at the summit.
- Descend to Muktinath, a sacred site for Hindus and Buddhists, and enjoy breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri, the 7th highest mountain in the world.
Day 14: Muktinath to Pokhara (174Km, 8 Hrs drive)
- Enjoy breathtaking mountain views and explore traditional villages like Kagbeni, Jomsom, Marpha, and Tukuche, each rich in culture and charm.
- Relax in soothing natural hot springs along the way before reaching the peaceful city of Pokhara.
Day 15: Pokhara Free day
- Take a city tour to explore Pokhara’s top attractions like the Old Bazaar, Tal Barahi Temple, and Davis Falls, and enjoy the peaceful beauty of Phewa Lake.
- Experience adventure with paragliding, relax at lakeside spas, and visit the International Mountain Museum for a deeper understanding of the Himalayas.
Day 16: Drive or Flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu or Lumbini (200kms –7Hrs drive or 30min flight)
- Choose between a scenic flight or a road trip from Pokhara to Kathmandu or Lumbini, depending on your itinerary, to enjoy stunning views and local attractions.
- End your journey with a farewell dinner at a Nepali Culture restaurant, celebrating your adventure in Nepal.
Day 17: Departure from Nepal or follow your Next trip
- Based on your flight schedule, we will drop you off for your final departure to your home or next destination.
- We hope to see you on your next trip to Nepal!
Alternative Trek
Short Tilicho Lake Trek
15 Days Short Tilicho Lake Trek
- Day 1: Arrival in Nepal and Transfer to Hotel
- Day 2: Drive Kathmandu to Besishahar (800m) (175km, 7hrs drive)
- Day 3: Jeep Drive from Besisahar to Chame (2650m) (67Km, 5 Hrs Drive)
- Day 4: Chame to Pisang (3250m) (13Km, 6 Hrs)
- Day 5: Pisang to Manang (3540m) (15Km, 7 Hrs) / (19Km, 9 Hrs)
- Day 6: Acclimatization day in Manang
- Day 7: Trek from Manang to Shree Kharka (4080m) (8Km, 6Hrs)
- Day 8: Trek from Shree Khakra to Tilicho lake base camp (4150m) (6Km, 4Hrs)
- Day 9: Trek from Tilicho Base camp to Tilicho Lake (4920m) and trek back to base camp (12Km, 7Hrs both way)
- Day 10: Trek from Tilicho base camp to Yak Kharka (4050m) (12Km, 7Hrs)
- Day 11: Yak Kharka to Throng Phedi (4550) (6Km, 4 Hrs)
- Day 12: Throng Phedi – Thorong La pass (5416m) and Muktinath (3800m) (17Km, 10 Hrs)
- Day 13: Muktinath to Pokhara (174Km, 8 Hrs drive)
- Day 14: Drive or Flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu or Lumbini (200kms –7Hrs drive or 30min flight)
- Day 15: Departure from Nepal or follow your Next trip
Follow Your Next Plan
16 Days Short Tilicho Lake Trek
- Day 1: Arrival in Nepal and Transfer to Hotel
- Day 2: City Tour and Trek Preparation
- Day 3: Drive Kathmandu to Besishahar (800m) (175km, 7hrs drive)
- Day 4: Jeep Drive from Besisahar to Chame (2650m) (67Km, 5 Hrs Drive)
- Day 5: Chame to Pisang (3250m) (13Km, 6 Hrs)
- Day 6: Pisang to Manang (3540m) (15Km, 7 Hrs) / (19Km, 9 Hrs)
- Day 7: Acclimatization day in Manang
- Day 8: Trek from Manang to Shree Kharka (4080m) (8Km, 6Hrs)
- Day 9: Trek from Shree Khakra to Tilicho lake base camp (4150m) (6Km, 4Hrs)
- Day 10: Trek from Tilicho Base camp to Tilicho Lake (4920m) and trek back to base camp (12Km, 7Hrs both way)
- Day 11: Trek from Tilicho base camp to Yak Kharka (4050m) (12Km, 7Hrs)
- Day 12: Yak Kharka to Throng Phedi (4550) (6Km, 4 Hrs)
- Day 13: Throng Phedi – Thorong La pass (5416m) and Muktinath (3800m) (17Km, 10 Hrs)
- Day 14: Muktinath to Pokhara (174Km, 8 Hrs drive)
- Day 15: Drive or Flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu or Lumbini (200kms –7Hrs drive or 30min flight)
- Day 16: Departure from Nepal or follow your Next trip
Short Tilicho Lake Trek From Pokhara
Short Tilicho Lake Trek drive From Muktinath 14 Days
- Day A: Meet your guide. Review the trip plan. Discuss safety and gear. Make final adjustments. We’ll pick you up from the bus station or airport.
- Day 1: Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Besishahar (800m) (125km, 6hrs drive)
- Day 2: Jeep Drive from Besisahar to Chame (2650m) (67Km, 5 Hrs Drive)
- Day 3: Trek from Chame to Pisang (3250m) (13Km, 6 Hrs)
- Day 4: Trek from Pisang to Manang (3540m) (15Km, 7 Hrs) / (19Km, 9 Hrs)
- Day 5: Acclimatization day in Manang
- Day 6: Trek from Manang to Shree Kharka (4080m) (8Km, 6Hrs)
- Day 7: Trek from Shree Khakra to Tilicho lake base camp (4150m) (6Km, 4Hrs)
- Day 8: Trek from Tilicho Base camp to Tilicho Lake (4920m) and trek back to base camp (12Km, 7Hrs both way)
- Day 9: Trek from Tilicho base camp to Yak Kharka (4050m) (12Km, 7Hrs)
- Day 10: Trek from Yak Kharka to Throng Phedi (4550) (6Km, 4 Hrs)
- Day 11: Trek from Throng Phedi – Thorong La pass (5416m) and Muktinath (3800m) (17Km, 10 Hrs)
- Day 12: Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (20Km, 7Hrs)
- Day 13: Drive from Jomsom to Tatopani (48Km, 3 Hrs drive)
- Day 14: Drive from Tatopani to Pokhara (112Km, 4 Hrs drive). follow your next trip
Short Tilicho Lake Trek drive or flight From Jomsom 13 days start from Pokhara
- Day A: Meet your guide. Review the trip plan. Discuss safety and gear. Make final adjustments. We’ll pick you up from the bus station or airport.
- Day 1: Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Besishahar (800m) (125km, 6hrs drive)
- Day 2: Jeep Drive from Besisahar to Chame (2650m) (67Km, 5 Hrs Drive)
- Day 3: Trek from Chame to Pisang (3250m) (13Km, 6 Hrs)
- Day 4: Trek from Pisang to Manang (3540m) (15Km, 7 Hrs) / (19Km, 9 Hrs)
- Day 5: Acclimatization day in Manang
- Day 6: Trek from Manang to Shree Kharka (4080m) (8Km, 6Hrs)
- Day 7: Trek from Shree Khakra to Tilicho lake base camp (4150m) (6Km, 4Hrs)
- Day 8: Trek from Tilicho Base camp to Tilicho Lake (4920m) and trek back to base camp (12Km, 7Hrs both way)
- Day 9: Trek from Tilicho base camp to Yak Kharka (4050m) (12Km, 7Hrs)
- Day 10: Trek from Yak Kharka to Throng Phedi (4550) (6Km, 4 Hrs)
- Day 11: Trek from Throng Phedi – Thorong La pass (5416m) and Muktinath (3800m) (17Km, 10 Hrs)
- Day 12: Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (20Km, 7Hrs)
- Day 13: Drive or Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara (160Km, 7 Hrs drive) or 30-minute Fly. follow your next trip
Short Tilicho Lake Trek drive From Muktinath 12 days start from Pokhara
- Day A: Meet your guide. Review the trip plan. Discuss safety and gear. Make final adjustments. We’ll pick you up from the bus station or airport.
- Day 1: Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Besishahar (800m) (125km, 6hrs drive)
- Day 2: Jeep Drive from Besisahar to Chame (2650m) (67Km, 5 Hrs Drive)
- Day 3: Trek from Chame to Pisang (3250m) (13Km, 6 Hrs)
- Day 4: Trek from Pisang to Manang (3540m) (15Km, 7 Hrs) / (19Km, 9 Hrs)
- Day 5: Acclimatization day in Manang
- Day 6: Trek from Manang to Shree Kharka (4080m) (8Km, 6Hrs)
- Day 7: Trek from Shree Khakra to Tilicho lake base camp (4150m) (6Km, 4Hrs)
- Day 8: Trek from Tilicho Base camp to Tilicho Lake (4920m) and trek back to base camp (12Km, 7Hrs both way)
- Day 9: Trek from Tilicho base camp to Yak Kharka (4050m) (12Km, 7Hrs)
- Day 10: Trek from Yak Kharka to Throng Phedi (4550) (6Km, 4 Hrs)
- Day 11: Trek from Throng Phedi – Thorong La pass (5416m) and Muktinath (3800m) (17Km, 10 Hrs)
- Day 12: Drive from Muktinath to Pokhara (174Km, 8 Hrs drive) follow your next trip
Tilicho Lake Trek from Pokhara 20 days
- Day A: Meet your guide. Review the trip plan. Discuss safety and gear. Make final adjustments. We’ll pick you up from the bus station or airport.
- Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to Besishahar (800m), Drive to Bulbule and Trek to Nadi (890m) (125km, 6hrs drive, 5 Km, 1hrs walk )
- Day 2: Nadi to Jagat (1300m) (12Km, 6Hrs)
- Day 3: Jagat to Dharapani (1900m) (15Km, 7 Hrs)
- Day 4: Dharapani to Chame (2710m) (16Km, 8 Hrs)
- Day 5: Chame to Pisang (3250m) (13Km, 6 Hrs)
- Day 6: Pisang to Manang (3540m) (15Km, 7 Hrs) / (19Km, 9 Hrs)
- Day 7: Acclimatization day in Manang
- Day 8: Trek from Manang to Shree Kharka (4080m) (8Km, 6Hrs)
- Day 9: Trek from Shree Khakra to Tilicho lake base camp (4150m) (6Km, 4Hrs)
- Day 10: Trek from Tilicho Base camp to Tilicho Lake (4920m) and trek back to base camp (12Km, 7Hrs both way)
- Day 11: Trek from Tilicho base camp to Yak Kharka (4050m) (12Km, 7Hrs)
- Day 12: Yak Kharka to Throng Phedi (4550) (6Km, 4 Hrs)
- Day 130: Throng Phedi – Thorong La pass (5416m) and Muktinath (3800m) (17Km, 10 Hrs)
- Day 14: Muktinath to Kagbeni (2800m) (10Km, 5 Hrs)/ (13Km, 7 Hrs)
- Day 15: Kagbeni to Marpha (2670m) (16Km, 7 Hrs)
- Day 16: Marpha to Kalopani (2550m) (17Km, 8 Hrs)
- Day 14: Kalopani to Tatopani (1200m) (15Km, 7 Hrs)
- Day 17: Tatopani to Ghorepani (2850m) (12Km, 6Hrs)
- Day 18: Trek from Ghorepani to Tadapani (2600 m) early morning Poon Hill (3210m) (10Km, 6Hrs)
- Day 19: Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk (1990m) (4Km, 4Hrs)
- Day 20: Trek from Ghandruk to Nayapul and Drive to Pokhara (11 Km, 5Hrs, 42 km 1 ½ Hrs drive) Follow your Next plan
Tilicho Trek Summary:
The Tilicho Lake Trek, also referred to as the journey to Tilicho Tal, is a spectacular adventure in Nepal’s Annapurna region, renowned for its high-altitude beauty. This trek takes adventurers to Tilicho Lake Nepal, a stunning turquoise lake situated at 4,919 meters, surrounded by towering peaks like Annapurna and Tilicho Peak. Starting from Besisahar, the trail winds through lush forests, terraced fields, and stark high-altitude deserts, offering a mix of challenging terrain and cultural encounters with Gurung and Thakali communities.
As part of the Tilicho Lake Annapurna Circuit, the trek to Tilicho Lake spans 8-12 days and demands good physical fitness due to steep ascents and high altitudes. Trekkers are rewarded with mesmerizing views, opportunities to spot Himalayan wildlife like blue sheep, and a chance to capture breathtaking landscapes. This journey combines natural splendor, cultural richness, and physical endurance, making it an unforgettable experience for those seeking adventure in the Himalayas.
Options for Your Trek:
Before Starting the Trek:
- Option 1: Overnight stay in Besisahar and drive to Chame the following day.
- Option 2: Follow the standard itinerary: Besisahar, Dharapani, Timang, Chame, Manang.
- Post-Throng La Pass Options: After crossing the Throng La Pass, you can choose various options based on your interests and the duration of your holiday.
Options from Muktinath:
- Option 1: Take a jeep or bus directly to Pokhara on the same day.
- Option 2: Trek to Kagbeni and continue to Jomsom the next day.
- Option 3: Trek directly to Jomsom and take a flight to Pokhara the next day.
- Option 4: Take a jeep or bus to Jomsom and fly to Pokhara the next day.
- Option 5: Take a jeep or bus to Pokhara.
- Option 6: Take a jeep or bus to Tatopani and continue trekking to Ghorepani Poon Hill.
- Option 7: Take a jeep or bus to Tatopani, stay overnight, and drive to Beni and Pokhara the next day.
- Option 8: Continue the classic route trekking for 4 more days due to the frequent passing vehicles on the route between Muktinath and Tatopani. The views along the way remain incredible.
Options from Ghorepani:
- Option 1: Trek to Nayapool the same day and drive to Pokhara.
- Option 2: Trek to Hile, then to Nayapool the next day and drive to Pokhara.
- Option 3: Trek to Ghandruk, then the next day to Pokhara.
Options from Tadapani:
- Option 1: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp.
- Option 2: Trek to Jhinu Dada and drive to Pokhara the next day.
- Option 3: Trek to Ghandruk and drive to Pokhara the next day.
Options from Ghandruk:
- Option 1: Trek to Nayapool and drive to Pokhara.
- Option 2: Trek to Tolka, Dhampus, and Phedi, then drive to Pokhara.
NOTE: These options provide flexibility based on your preferences and time available for the trek. You can customize the trip by clicking button below
Include Exclude in Tilicho Lake Trek
What’s Included
- Transport I: Airport pick-up and drop in Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Lumbini, with private vehicle
- Accommodation: Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Lumbini (based on the itinerary), including breakfast
- Documents: All required trekking permits (ACAP and TIMS), official documents, paperwork, office service charges, and government taxes
- Transport II: Transportation between Kathmandu or Lumbini to Pokhara (round trip) is arranged as per the itinerary, either by tourist bus, private vehicle, or plane
- Transport III: Transportation from Pokhara to the trek start point and back from the trek end point according to the itinerary
- Guide: Experience trekking guide
- Porters: One porter will be provided for every two trekkers
- Duffel Bag: If you need a duffel bag, please let us know before booking the trip and remind us after you arrive
- Trekking Map: A trekking route map for the group leader
- Food and Accommodation: Food and accommodation during the trek in tea houses (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Nepali Dinner: A farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant
What’s Excluded
- Flight ticket: International flight tickets and airport tax
- Nepal visa: You can get your Nepal visa upon arrival at the airport
- City Lunch: Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu / Pokhara / Lumbini
- City tour: city tour with a vehicle and entry fees for visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Personal expenses: like laundry, phone calls, snacks, drinks, bar bills, and camera battery charging
- Travel Insurance: It should cover emergency evacuation if needed, while trekking to the highest point listed in the itinerary
- Trekking Equipment: Personal trekking gears for your comfort and safety
- Transport IV: Local jeep or bus transport during the trek (if needed but not mentioned in the itinerary)
- Tips and Gifts: Tips for guides, porters, drivers and related staff during trip
Gallery:
FAQs about Tilicho Lake Trek:
What is the Tilicho Lake Trek?
The Tilicho Lake Trek is a scenic 10-14 day journey in Nepal’s Annapurna region, leading to the stunning Tilicho Lake at 4,919 meters. It offers breathtaking views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and diverse landscapes from forests to alpine meadows.
Where is Tilicho Lake Nepal located?
Tilicho Lake Nepal sits at 4,919 meters in the Manang District, nestled within the Annapurna range. Surrounded by peaks like Tilicho, Annapurna, and Gangapurna, it’s a glacial lake of striking turquoise beauty.
How do I plan a Trek to Tilicho Lake?
A Trek to Tilicho Lake starts from Besisahar, follows the Annapurna Circuit to Manang, then diverts to Khangsar and Tilicho Base Camp. The 10-14 day journey requires permits (ACAP, TIMS) and good fitness for the high-altitude challenge.
How does the Tilicho Lake Annapurna Circuit route work?
The Tilicho Lake Annapurna Circuit combines the classic Annapurna trail with a side trip from Manang to Tilicho Lake at 4,919 meters. After the lake, rejoin the circuit at Yak Kharka, often crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters) to Muktinath.
What’s unique about the Tilicho Lake High Altitude Trek?
The Tilicho Lake High Altitude Trek reaches 4,919 meters, showcasing one of the world’s highest lakes amid rugged Himalayan terrain. It demands acclimatization and stamina, rewarding trekkers with surreal views of Annapurna and serene lake beauty.
