Tilicho Lake Trek takes you into one of Nepal’s newly opened and least-known regions, offering a raw and enthralling Himalayan experience. Unlike other trekking areas of Nepal, the landscapes here resemble those of Tibet—vast, rugged, and mystical.You will enjoy the sights of ancient Tibetan villages, dramatic rock formations, high-altitude grazing settlements, narrow canyons, deep forests, and towering snow-clad peaks throughout the journey.
Flying into Kathmandu on a crystal clear day is itself a truly breathtaking experience. The views of snow-capped mountain peaks sprawling down below you are almost ecstatic, & begin a whole sequence of memorable experiences that stay with you for a real long time. Upon arrival, a representative and driver from our office will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. Our team will assist you with check-in process and provide an orientation about your daily activities. This will be your first overnight stay in the city of temples.
Kathmandu, is the historical heart of Nepal, has been a popular destination for tourists ever since the country opened its borders to outside world. The city presents a wonderful combination of Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism and Western influence in the Valley. Patan and Bhaktapur, its two prime neighboring cities bear immense historical, cultural and religious significances.
We will arrange a professional tour guide for you and a private tourist vehicle with a driver to explore between monuments. The tour guide will take you to UNESCO World Heritage Sites such Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath and Boudhanath Stupa, the historical and cultural sites you’ll visit today. Offering panoramic views of the valley.
After completion of your day tour, you will be having meeting with your trek guide at our office/hotel. He will brief you about the Trek and all the essentials. The Thamel has many trekking gear shops, where you can buy missing gear in the late evening and get ready for the jeep driving to Dharapani.
After completing all the necessary preparations, acclimatization, and logistic arrangements, we begin our Annapurna trekking journey with a scenic jeep drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani. Cruising along the Kathmandu-Pokhara Highway to Dumre, we then follow the rugged road that winds beside the Marsyangdi River.
Along the way, we pass through picturesque lowland villages, terraced rice fields, and river valleys, offering a glimpse of rural Nepali life. After around 8 hours of driving, we arrive at Dharapani, a lively town and the official starting point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
We evade a narrow field from the village. The Dudh Khola, which originates from the south face of Manaslu and then Marshyangdi, steers to the left. Sinuous trails of the. Annapurna II becomes visible as we arrive at Bagarchhap, a Bhotia village with colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. As we continue ascending through forests of pine and oak, we pass through Dhanakyu before coming to a thundering waterfall. Further on, the Marshyangdi River enters a gorge and the trail follows a rock-strewn path.
We now grab a breather for a while and take in the splendor of the picturesque Manaslu. When the steep incline ends, we follow a path amid magnificent rhododendrons and continue on a gently rising path. We cross a stream before entering a pine forest. We then enter the pristine hamlet of Kotho, from where we can grasp the most enchanting view of Annapurna II. Treading further, the route reaches a large white gate with a corrugated iron roof, which is the entrance of Chame. Chame is the administrative headquarter of Manang district. There is electricity, wireless station, schools, shops, health post, post office, police check post, hotels, lodges and banks that are found in Chame. The hot springs are the major attraction of this place.
After a mesmerizing sight of the glowing Lamjung Himal [6893m] in the morning, we head off for Pisang. En route, we cross a large suspension bridge along Marshyangdi and approach houses and lodges on the northern side of the river. Our trail then meanders through barley field leading to Teleku at 2775 meters. As we leave undulating mountain passes, we enter fascinating apple orchards near a bridge at 2840 meters. On crossing the bridge, the pristine hamlet of Bratang appears. History has it that Bratang used to be a Khampa settlement. A stone memorial of a Japanese climber has been built in this place. After leaving the forested village, the valley changes from a V-shape to a gentle U-shape. Before us, the Annapurna mountain range rears up. Further on, we continue our steep rock-strewn trails to the south side and cross a long suspension bridge at 3040 meters. At this vantage point on the bridge, we get to view Paungda Danda rock rising more than 1500 meters from the river. En route, we get to capture splendid views of Annapurna II rising up on the east with Pisang Peak on the north-east. We cross a bridge and enter the village of Pisang. From here, we climbs gently through pine forests and traditional stone houses toward Upper Pisang, a charming settlement known for its ancient monastery and dramatic mountain scenery. We spend the night at Upper Pisang, enjoying the peaceful Himalayan atmosphere and stunning sunset views over the Annapurna range.
We continue our trek to Ngawal, the trails gently ascends through pine forests, passing through ancient monasteries, prayer flags, and traditional stone villages offering breathtaking views of Annapurna ll,lll,lV, and Gangapurna. This scenic route is quieter and more rewarding than the lower trail. After a steady walk, we arrive at Ngawal, a beautiful village perched above the valley, known for its Tibetan-style houses and panoramic mountain views. Overnight stay at a lodge in Ngawal.
The trek from Ngawal to Manang begins with a gentle descent along a scenic trail, offering spectacular views of Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. Passing through juniper forests, stone chortens, and small settlements, the path gradually leads down to the Marsyangdi Valley. We then continue on an easy, mostly level trail toward Manang, the largest village in the region. Surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes and glacial valleys, Manang is an important acclimatization stop. Overnight stay at a lodge in Manang.
Upon reaching Manang, we take a well-earned rest day for proper acclimatization before crossing the Thorung La Pass. This day can be spent with gentle walks along the river to witness the spectacular icefalls cascading down from glaciated mountain peaks, or simply relaxing while enjoying the panoramic views of the Annapurna range and the Manang Valley. A short visit to the Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) aid post is also recommended, offering valuable insight into altitude awareness and high-altitude health.
The path is gradual descent and you cross a suspension bridge over Jharsing Khola (stream). 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 Khangsar.
This day you trek up and ascending trail until you reach destination. The path is quite covered by small crystals and shrubs can be seen on both sides. Somewhere in trekking you cross a few streams. Tilicho Lake is situated at the highest altitude. From here you can enjoy the closer and panoramic views of Tilicho Mountain and many others. Stay overnight in Tilicho Lake.
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. There are no tea houses available from en route Tilicho Lake to Jomsom. Stay overnight in Jomsom.
Take a scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, enjoying breathtaking aerial views of the mountains and valleys along the way. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel in Pokhara and relax for a comfortable overnight stay.
While driving from Pokhara to Kathmandu, you go up to Damauli, Dumre, Mugling and Kurintar where Nepal’s first Cable car is operated to reach Manakamana (wishes) Temple. In route, you could enjoy the mountain views, green sceneries, rice terrace fields, vegetable fields and see the local folks happily engaged in their daily life activities. From Naubishe, you climb up to Thankot, gateway to the capital city of Kathmandu. You can also fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu which takes about 25 minutes.
In the evening time, we visit one of Kathmandu’s finest restaurant’s for a delicious Nepalese cuisine of Nepalese food. While you enjoy your meal, you will be entertained to a scintillating Nepalese cultural dance performed by the local belles. This is a complimentary outing on behalf of Higher Limits Trek & Expeditions for the good welfare of our guests. Stay overnight at your Hotel in Kathmandu.
Our escort team will transfer you to the airport for your onward flight home. For those who wish to extend their stay in Nepal, a variety of optional activities can be arranged, including a jungle safari with a game drive in one of the national parks, adventurous white-water rafting, Tibet overland tours, or mountain biking experiences. Simply let us know your interests and budget, and we will be happy to tailor an extension program to suit your needs.
The price of the trip is depence on services you take from us so that we have plenty of options on Add Ons section such Helicopter, Porters, Private Transport, Extra Guides, Accomodations and so on.
We suggest you to hire a porter to carry your bag pack while on the trek, trekking with a light day pack is much easier and you enjoy your trekking holidays to the fullest. A trekking porter carries about 20-25Kg (about 10-12Kg from each of you) and we suggest you to hire a one porter for two trekkers.
If you don’t want to spend an entire day on the road, skip the 8-9hrs bus ride from Pokhara to Kathmandu then choose a short scenic flight instead of long driving just with $120.The airfare includes free domestic airport pickup and drop off.
Don't want to take a long bus ride? No worries, you can travel comfortably from Pokhara to Kathmandu in a private car for an additional cost. Enjoy a relaxed journey at your own pace, with required stops to admire the scenery along the way. This option is extra benefit for a small groups, you can share the car fare amongst the four travelers.
Do you need accommodation for extra nights in Kathmandu and in Pokhara? You can add hotel stays at a (2-3) - star hotel with breakfast included. The cost is $ 50 per night for a single room and $ 55 per night for a double room.
While packing for “Tilicho Lake Trek,” warm clothing is important to ensure comfort and safety, while non-essential gear such as a knife may simply come in handy. Here we have a suggested packing list to guide you in preparation:
(Note: This is just a guideline to help you on your preparation.)
Every day’s Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner is included in the package during the trek. This will be a dish of Nepali, Indian or Continental source cooked by the lodging you stay at.
The whole trekking is tea house trekking which means we will stay at simple Tea House Lodge accommodation during the trek which will be wood and stone houses with outside toilet and bathroom mostly.
Almost everywhere available electricity on this trekking routes but still please be prepare with 2pin plug, power bank, spare batteries and head lamp etc.
This trekking involves five to seven hours walking per day. However, it is some part of this trek at very high altitude, which will take a physical toll. There are no special physical or training requirements, but high altitude experience & walking is a benefit.
The standard itinerary takes days, including arrival, acclimatization days, trekking days, and return to Kathmandu.
The highest altitude is Tilicho Lake 4919 meters.
Tilicho Lake is located in the Manang district of Nepal, within the Annapurna region.
This trek is suitable for trekkers with good fitness and prior high-altitude trekking experience
The trek is considered moderate to challenging. High altitude, cold weather, and landslide-prone trails make it demanding. Prior trekking experience is recommended.
The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November).
We arranges all necessary permits for you:
You can issued permits in Kathmandu and Phokara, however if you book your trip with Higher Limits Trek & Expedition then we will handle the permits for you.
Accommodation is in teahouses (lodges) with basic but comfortable rooms. Rooms are usually twin-sharing with shared bathrooms at higher altitudes.
Teahouses offer a basic variety of meals such as:
Yes, drinking water is available but tap water is not safe to drink directly. You can:
We encourages using refillable bottles to reduce plastic waste.
A licensed guide is highly recommended for safety and local knowledge.
Yes. A porter is strongly recommended, it is totally optional but helpful for carrying luggage in this remote trek.
Yes, all guides provided by Higher Limits Trek & Expedition are licensed, experienced, and trained in first aid.
Prior trekking experience is recommended but not mandatory for the Tilicho Lake Trek.
Yes, trekking insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, emergency evacuation, and medical expenses is strongle recommended because this trek is a remote and high-altitude.
Yes. The trek reaches very high altitudes, so proper acclimatization, hydration, and pacing are essential. We ensures a safe schedule.
Yes, the itinerary can be customized to include extra rest days, side trips, or additional sightseeing in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Wi-Fi is available in most teahouses, but connection can be slow and unreliable in remote areas.
Yes, Higher Limits Trek & Expedition offers private and customized trek based on your preferences and requirements.
Yes, we prioritizes safety with experienced guides, proper planning. So this trek is safe.
No, credit cards are not accepted on the trails, as all the teahouses and local shops operate on cash, so it is important to carry enough Nepali Rupees for personal expenses.
