Tilicho Lake Trek | Manang Tilicho Trekking
Itinerary
Your Journey, Step by Step
Drive Kathmandu to Besisahar
Today, you will have an early morning breakfast in the hotel. then our guide will pick you up from your hotel and we begin our trek with a drive. We will drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar at around 7’0 clock. With the view of the beautiful countryside of Nepal, our drive continues. Offering the beautiful mountain scenery, passing by several villages, farm, along Trishuli river first then following the narrow and paved road by the Marsyangdi river we reach the beautiful village Besisahar.
Besisahar is the headquarter of Lamjung district having a warm and sub-tropical type of climate. After a long driving to Besisahar from Kathmandu, we will spend a night here. We can even see the beautiful views of Annapurna II, Machhapuchhre, Lamjung Himal from Besisahar. Overnight at Besisahar.
Dharapani (1,860m/6,100ft), Trek to Chame (2,650m/8,694ft) – 8 hours
Leaving the beautiful village, Besisahar, we have another drive to Dharapani today. With the beautiful views of waterfall making the sound we cross the Marsyangdi river over the airy suspension bridge. We cross several villages like Jagat, Chyamje, we reach the first village in the Manang district, Tal village. Passing Tal village with the view of large waterfall our drive continues to Dharapani. Dharapani is the starting point of our trek and we first head toward Chame village
After registering in the ACAP office, we walk through blue pine, spruce, hemlock, maple and oak forest to Bagarchhap. Then with the steep climb through rhododendron forest and following several landslides along the way to Timang, the bottom of Lamjung Himal. And the trail goes on a flat level until we reach Chame. With the beautiful views of Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, Lamjung, we enter the administrative headquarter of Manang district, Chame. Overnight at Chame.
Trek to Pisang
After breakfast in Chame, with Lamjung Himal sparkling in the morning sun, we climb to a field of buckwheat passing Mani walls in a tiny village Telekhu. Then we will have a long and pleasant walk through a dense forest with dramatic scenery. Following the pine-scented trail around reveals the first view of dramatic Paungda Danda rock face. It’s a tremendous curved slab of rock. We continue the steep ascent to the upper Marsyangdi over a ridge. With the beautiful views Pisang peak and Annapurna II, the trail follows the river valley to a long Mani wall by a bridge and the lower valley of Pisang
Trek to Manang village (3,519m/11,545ft) – 7 hours
Today’s trail continues through the drier upper part of Pisang. The trail climbs a steep ridge with a good view of the Manang valley and Tilicho peak. Entering the pine grooves reveals the small turquoise lake view and then trail passes the charming villages with views of painted mandalas and dragon mouth spouts
Continue trekking through the field of grazing yak and a wide variety of crops, we climb a steep on the right side of the Marsyangdi River to Ngawal. It is one of the great views to get the whole Annapurna Ridge and the Marsyangdi river valley view. Finally passing through the pine forests, several villages and farming terraces we arrive at the large Tibetan settlement, Manang. You can have amazing views of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Tarkekang and Gangapurna from Manang. Overnight at Manang.
Acclimatization at Manang Hike to ICE LAKE
Manang is a beautiful village situated in the board valley of the Marsyangdi River to the north of the Annapurna mountain range. This village is surrounded by mountains with the flow of the Marsyangdi river and the view of the landscape of the dry land. You will spend another day in Manang, do that you can explore the lifestyle, scenario, culture, tradition of beautiful Manang village
Today, we will have a short hike to one of the beautiful lakes inside the Manang village. Crossing the suspension and wooden bridge invented by the local people, we reach the beautiful Gangapurna Lake. This lake is formed by the avalanche falling from the Gangapurna Himal. The view of the milky blue glacier lake at the foot of spectacular Gangapurna icefalls is breathtaking. After returning to Manang village, we spend time overviewing the magnificent views of green, landscapes, silvery mountains, Chortens and monasteries. Overnight at Manang.
Trek to Khangsar village (3,756m/12,251ft)
After exploring wonderful Manang village, today we continue our trek up to Khangsar village. We descend from Manang and pass through Chortens to reach the Marsyangdi river. Then we cross a suspension bridge over Jharsing Khola. Here you get two options to reach Khangsar village. You can either cross the ridge north of Annapurna II, IV and Glacier Dome or descend from village to the glacial lake at the foot of huge icefall. And staying close to the river bed we reach the Khangsar where an amazing view of the Great Barrier opens up.
Khangsar is a very old-styled Tibetan influenced village where you find a small monastery, Chorten, Mani walls and prayer flags. Overnight at Khangsar village.
Trek to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m/13,615ft)
Following a large path passing a gompa, the trail climbs steeply a small Chortens and goes through juniper and sea buckthorn bushes. While trekking through this trail you can see a path is little covered by small crystals and shrubs on both sides. Crossing a few streams, and wearying climb we reach a crest with prayer flags. Then we pass through a sequence of zigzags down a scree slope to the side valley of the main valley and another side of it is a building is known as the Tilicho Base. From the Tilicho Base Camp Hotel, you can enjoy the closer and panoramic views of Tilicho mountain with many other mountains. Overnight at Tilicho Base Camp Hotel
Trek to Tilicho Lake and back to Tilicho Base Camp (4,919m/16,138ft)
Today we are heading toward the main destination of our trek. We will hike up to Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world. We start our trek from the base camp as early as possible so that you can spend much time there with a clear view. while trekking to Tilicho Lake, we find the 22 Ghumti, the most challenging part of the day. As you have to climb this Ghumti/ zigzag in many ways. After crossing this challenging part you find the route much easier and soon we will arrive at the main destination, Tilicho Lake- highest altitude lake at 4,919m. On reaching Tilicho lake, we get to admire its tranquil beauty. You can sometimes see the reflection of the surrounding peaks on its turquoise waters, otherwise, you can see the frozen lake. Similarly, from here you have the magnificent view of Tarkeghyang, Tilicho, Gangapurna, and Khangsar Kang peaks. Moreover, Hindu believe that Tilicho Lake is the ancient Kak Bhusundi Lake mentioned in the Ramayana. After spending a wonderful time in cold Tilicho Lake, we retrace the same challenging zigzag trail to the Tilicho Base Camp. Overnight at Tilicho Base Camp
Trek to Khangsar village
Today we are retracing the same route to Khangsar village. Passing the scree slopes with the slippery pathway we see the long narrow path traversing through the steep debris slopes. Then we descend a hill and see the ridge going north from Khangsar Kang leads to Annapurna I, the highest mountain in the Annapurna Range and between Khangsar Kang and Tilicho peaks spreads impassable Great Barrier. Then following the trail along one of the most significant peaks, Khangsar Kang we pass by another settlement called Shri Kharka. Now, we trek to Khangsar with magnificent views of the canyon and Annapurna II. And finally on reaching Khangsar our last part of trekking finished. Overnight at Khangsar village
Drive to Besisahar (760m/2,493ft)
After breakfast in Khangsar village, we drive back to Besisahar. Passing several villages, with the view of beautiful mountains, landscapes, waterfalls. We have a long drive to Besisahar. On the way, we enjoy the beautiful scenery of rivers, mani walls, Chortens, hanging prayers flag and pass Marsyangdi. On reaching Besisahar, have some rest. Overnight at Besisahar
Drive back to Kathmandu
Today, we are driving back to Kathmandu. After a delicious breakfast in Besisahar, we take a morning bus to Kathmandu. We leave the headquarter of Manang district with the beautiful scenery mountains, landscapes hillside and passing by several villages, farm, following the narrow and paved road by the Marsyangdi River and along the Prithivi highways with the view of Trishuli river. After around 7-8 hours you reach Kathmandu. On reaching Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. You can have rest in noon and in the evening you will have cultural dinner with the Bold Himalaya. Overnight at Kathmandu
Departure or Join Next Trip
It’s time to say goodbye to you, our representative will drop you to the airport three hours before your scheduled flight. If you have more time we can arrange another awesome trip for you.
Inclusions
What’s Covered in Your Adventure
- All ground transportation including airport pick up and drop off, upon arrival and departure
- Experienced, professional, licensed holder, and English-speaking trekking guide.
- Some necessary equivalents sleeping bag & Down jacket (if you need, return after trek)
- Necessary staff, guide & porters their salary, accommodation, meals and their insurance, professional guide (for two guests one porter to carry baggage)
- Well experienced English-speaking assistant guide if the group size exceeds 5+ persons.
- All Accomodation:-3 star accommodation in Kathmandu, Guesthouse in Beshisahar, and trekking lodge during the trek route.
- Full board meal during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner including tea or coffee ).
- Necessary trekking permits:- Annapurna Conservation Area(ACAP) and Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) fee.
- Necessary trekking permits:- Annapurna Conservation Area(ACAP) and Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) fee.
- First aid medicine & kits item, Oximeter to check pulse, heart rate, and oxygen saturation at higher altitude.
- All organizational requirements.
- One special cultural show and farewell dinner program
- Duffle Bag, T-shirt, and Trip certificate
- Our government/Local taxes and official expenses per the rules and regulations.
- International airfare, Nepal Visa (USD 30 for 15 days or USD 50 for 30 days) & Travel insurance
- Bar & Desert Bills
- Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu
- Tips for trekking crew members
Good to Know
Your Journey, Step by Step
The trip to Tilicho Lake has a moderate to severe difficulty level. During the winter and monsoon seasons, the trail becomes more difficult due to its rough and narrow nature, with certain sections being slick and icy. Tilicho Lake is 4,920 meters above sea level, which further increases the difficulty. You must be in good mental health in order to complete this hike. It takes a cheerful outlook to traverse the terrain for five to six hours a day. You can train for the hike by doing physical activities back home. Enhancing your endurance before traveling will facilitate the Tilicho Lake hike. To increase your energy, try cycling, Zumba, running, or some yoga exercises. Squats and lunges are the best exercises you can perform at home.
It’s best not to directly drive to Manang as theres a risk of altitude sickness because of sudden increase in altitude. It’s safer to trek from Dharapani or Chame. Remember this when planning your itinerary.
Make sure to stay well hydrated while trekking to prevent altitude sickness. Trekking involves a lot of exertion so dehydration is a concern.
Pack clothing, for the trek, including, down jackets, lightweight pants and fleece layers.
Proper acclimatization can help prevent altitude sickness.
Walk at a pace that feels comfortable allowing you to save energy and avoid getting too tired. Remember to take breaks.
Make sure to eat meals to keep up your energy levels. Give dishes like Dal Bhat a try as they are rich, in carbohydrates and protein.
Prepare yourself physically by doing cardio workouts, strength training and practicing hiking. This will improve your endurance. Lower the chances of getting hurt.
Always be aware of symptoms of altitude sickness, like headaches, nausea or dizziness. If you start feeling worse descend to a lower elevation immediately.
Water is conveniently accessible, at the guesthouses. You have the option to purchase a bottle of mineral water. Its important to dispose of plastic bottles. Alternatively you can request boiled water at the guesthouses for a fee. Remember to bring along a water bottle and water purification tablets. While trekking, consider drinking stream water after treating it with a water purification method.
The internet connection remains reliable, from Besisahar to the Manang Valley with disruptions or lack of service in high altitude areas and near Tilicho Lake. At guesthouses additional fees can provide access to internet services and electricity for charging devices. While phone signal strength is generally good it may be inconsistent at elevations. Utilizing a SIM card can also enable access to internet services, in the region.
A professional guide possesses knowledge of altitude, mountains, local communities, customs and flora. They receive training, from institutions. Are proficient in English. We will make arrangements for a guide for you. The fee is already included in the cost of the trip.
A porter can carry up to 20/25 kg of weight. Porters may not be fluent, in English. Equipped to handle emergencies. If needed you can hire a porter at a cost. It’s advisable to pack light so that one porter can assist two individuals efficiently.
Clothing items- Caps/Hat, Warm hats (Banie), jackets(Down, fleece jacket, Water Proof), shirts, Thermal Set( Base Layer), t-shirts, trousers/Hiking Pants (warm & waterproof), Neck Gaiter, Gloves (Inner & Insulated), Towel, Undergarments
Bag packs and Bags – Day Pack, at least you have a 45-50 liters backpack or Duffel bag that can put your necessary items
Footwear- Shoes and sandals, sucks (Warm) at list pairs, Gaiters (for Winter
Sleeping Bags- sleeping bags at least -15 to -20
Electronics items- Camera, Headlamp or touche, portable charger( Power Bank)
Accessories – Water bottle, Eye wears (Sun Glass), Trekking Poles, Water Bottle (Hydration Bladder), Crampons/ microspikes (For Winter only)
Mischillinious- Safety and First aid items & medicine (Including Oximeter & Thermometer), Bag cover/pack covers, Money Belt, hand sanitizer, Sun cream, Toothbrush, tooth cream, Shop, Shampoo, Toilet paper, Booties(for winter) Mitten( For winter) Cards, Shanks, chocolates, Money, Passport, Travel insurance
Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) and
Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) permits are required.
We issue all the necessary permits and fees.
Your passport should be valid for at least six months from the date you enter Nepal. You will have to process for tourist visa, which you can acquire at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or, at land border checkpoints.
A visa is available at Tribhuvan International Airport, as well as at several locations within Nepal’s borders, for those who arrive. Visit www.immigration.gov.np for the most recent information on visas procedures and visa fees, as these rules are subject to change at any time. Fill out the application for a visa that is accessible at the immigration desks. You can also get it from https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/ by downloading it online. To speed up the procedure, it is recommended that you complete the form before your arrival. Just hand the completed paper to the immigration officer when you get to the desk.
Travel insurance is a must have, for the Tilicho Lake trek for high altitude trekking up to 5,000 meters. Make sure your policy covers care, emergency evacuation and rescue, trip cancellation and interruption, personal liability as well as protection for lost or stolen items. It should also account for delays. Missed connections. Specifically mention adventure activities like trekking. Review the policy details carefully carry a copy of it along with emergency contact numbers and double check coverage specifics with your provider. This will give you peace of mind. Safeguard you against any risks or emergencies, during your journey.
The Tilicho Lake trek will cost you falano USD. The list of services included and excluded within this cost will be comprehensively mentioned in the include/exclude section of this page. Generally, all the basic services like food, accommodation, and transportation will be available on the trip package.
Tilicho Lake Trek with Mesokanto La Pass
Trekking through the Tilicho Mesokanto Pass is known to be quite an adventure, in the Annapurna region of Nepal. This trek entails crossing the Mesokanto Pass at an elevation of 5,330 meters (17,486.88 feet) above sea level. Starting from Chame village the journey follows the Marsyangdi River upstream until reaching Tilicho Base Camp. The trail then goes up steeply to reach the top of Mesokanto Pass providing views of Annapurna and Thorong Peak. After crossing the pass hikers make their way, towards Tilicho Lake situated at an altitude of 4,919 meters (16,140 feet) ranking it among the lakes globally. This trek to Tilicho Lake through Mesokanto Pass requires endurance and proper acclimatization due to altitudes. Despite its difficulties this journey guarantees an picturesque experience, for adventurers seeking an enriching adventure.
Annapurna circuit with Tilicho Lake trek
The path, to Tilicho Lake branches off from Manang village towards the base camp of Tilicho Lake. Once you’ve explored the trek to Tilicho Lake you’ll rejoin the trail as you head towards Yak Kharka. Your journey will take you across the Thorong La Pass (5416m). As we reach the pass we’ll catch a glimpse of Muktinath across the Kagbeni Plateau before heading to Jomsom. Along the way we’ll traverse vegetation zones ranging from subtropical areas to harsh semi desert landscapes.
The trek, to Tilicho Lake is a section of the Annapurna circuit path running alongside the Marsyangdi River valley. It offers vistas of Manaslu and Himal Chuli to the east. Each day you encounter terrains starting from an environment and ascending to the snow capped peaks. This journey grants you the opportunity to witness a lake at elevation imbued with significant religious significance.
Tilicho Lake Trek with Nar Phu
We’ll begin our journey by following the trekking paths of the Annapurna Circuit trail. From Koto we’ll veer off onto a traveled route, towards the Nar Phu Valley situated north of Manang and then conquer the thrilling Kang La Pass. This pass connects Nar to Manang and three other Bhotia villages in Neyshang Valley. Despite the forested entrance to the valley it eventually reveals breathtaking views of mountains, ancient villages and high altitude grazing lands. The panoramic sight of the mountain range including the Annapurna range from Nar Phu Valley and Kang La Pass is truly mesmerizing. Nar. Phu are both ancient villages where you can immerse yourself in the fascinating culture of mountain dwellers that has endured for centuries. The resilient people of Nar and Phu engage in agriculture on their areas of land. A visit, to the Tashi Lakhang Gommpa allows us to receive blessings from Lama Karma Sonam Rimpoche as we delve deeper into this enriching experience.
FAQs
Your Questions, Answered
The optimal time, for embarking on a trek to Tilicho Lake is undoubtedly from September to November, which marks the season for such an adventure. The following favorable window falls between March and April in Nepal offering weather conditions, with skies. During these periods you can behold the sight of mountains.
We have a 10 day itinerary planned from arrival, to departure with 8 days allocated for trekking, 2 days for travel. If you have a timeframe, in mind for the Tilicho Lake trek please inform us so we can tailor your travel experience accordingly.
Along the trekking route you can find tea houses. Some of these tea houses offer rooms with attached bathrooms although not all guest houses have this amenity. They typically provide rooms and comfortable beds in line with the standard of trekking in Nepal. To access a shower guests can opt for a bucket shower for a fee or, in some places there are bathrooms equipped with solar showers.
Many hikers may believe that the Annapurna Circuit trek and Tilicho Lake trek are distinct. In reality they are part of the route. Tilicho Lake is actually a section of the Annapurna Circuit trek and those who embark on the circuit can include a side trip to Tilicho Lake. The path to Tilicho Lake begins at Manang, where both treks share trails until that point.
Certainly Mineral water is accessible at every tea house along the way. However it’s not advisable to rely on mineral water for a couple of reasons. Firstly it can be quite expensive for travelers. Secondly it has effects on the ecosystem due to the excessive use of plastic bottles by water companies. In regions mineral water bottles pose a threat, to the environment. Instead we can opt for using a water purifier or water purification tablets to be travelers.
Yes you can definitely combine these treks. You’ll begin in Nar Phu Valley then head to Tilicho Lake after crossing Kang La Pass. Following your time, at Tilicho Lake you can proceed to Thorong La Pass.
Tilicho Lake sits at an altitude of 4,949 meters.
You will need an Annapurna Conservation Area Project permit and a Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card for this trek.
If your child is capable of walking for 6 7 hours a day then you can certainly bring them along. Otherwise you may need to consider extending your trekking days.
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