Tilicho Lake Trek
Private Group Journeys

Tilicho Lake Trek

A Journey to One of the World’s Highest Alpine Lakes

  • duration

    Duration

    16 Days
  • Activity Trekking
  • Activity Culture Tours
  • Moderate
    Moderate
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Tilicho Lake Trek – Where Turquoise Waters Meet the Majestic Himalayas

The Tilicho Lake Trek is one of Nepal’s most rewarding and adventurous trekking journeys, taking you deep into the heart of the Annapurna region to reach the spectacular Tilicho Lake—one of the highest alpine lakes in the world. Situated at around 4,919 meters, this turquoise glacial lake is surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks and pristine wilderness, offering a truly unforgettable high-altitude experience.

The Tilicho Lake Trek combines natural beauty, cultural immersion, and moderate adventure. It typically spans about 16 days, following the classic Annapurna Circuit route up to Manang before diverting towards Tilicho Base Camp and the lake itself.

The journey passes through diverse landscapes—from lush river valleys and pine forests to alpine meadows and rugged high-altitude terrain—making it one of the most varied treks in Nepal. Along the way, you encounter traditional Himalayan villages, ancient monasteries, and communities with rich Tibetan-influenced culture.

Why Choose Tilicho Lake Trek?

  • One of the World’s Highest Lakes: Tilicho Lake is famous for its high altitude and stunning beauty, with deep blue glacial waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
  • Spiritual and Cultural Significance: Considered sacred in Hinduism, the lake attracts pilgrims, while the trek also offers insights into Buddhist culture and local traditions in the Manang region.
  • Unique Extension of the Annapurna Circuit: This trek includes a scenic and challenging detour to Tilicho Lake, making it more adventurous than the standard Annapurna Circuit.
  • Raw Himalayan Wilderness: Beyond Manang, the trail becomes remote and rugged, offering pristine landscapes and a true sense of wilderness.

Major Highlights of the Tilicho Lake Trek

  • Panoramic views of the Annapurna range and surrounding Himalayan peaks
  • Dramatic landscapes including river gorges, waterfalls, and high-altitude valleys
  • Journey Through the Marshyangdi Valley with ever-changing scenery
  • Transition from subtropical forests to alpine terrain
  • Explore traditional villages like Manang and Khangsar
  • Experience local lifestyles and diverse ethnic cultures
  • Visit the ancient Buddhist monastery in Braga, encounter prayer flags, mani walls, and Tibetan-influenced traditions
  • Tilicho Lake set beneath towering peaks, a place of both natural beauty and spiritual significance

Tilicho Lake Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2: In Kathmandu
Day 3: Drive to Chame
Day 4: Trek to Pisang
Day 5: Trek to Ngawal
Day 6: Trek to Braga
Day 7: In Braga
Day 8: Trek to Shree Kharka
Day 9: Trek to Tilicho Base Camp
Day 10: Trek to Tilicho lake-Shree Kharka
Day 11: Trek to Manang
Day 12: Trek to Pisang
Day 13: Drive to Pokhara
Day 14: In Pokhara
Day 15: Fly to Kathmandu
Day 16: Departure

Overview

trekking Trip Type Trekking
Activities Included Activities Included
Accommodation Accommodation 3-4* category hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara and village lodge/guest house during the trek
Meal Meal Only breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara while all meals during the trek
Best Seasons Best Seasons Best during the Spring and Autumn
Route Route Kathmandu-Chame-Pisang-Ngawal-Braga-Shree Kharka-Tilicho Lake-Manang-Pisang-Pokhara-Kathmandu
  Best Months Best Months March, April, May, October, November

Good Months Good Months February, September

Lean Months Lean Months June, July, August

Not Recommended Months Not Recommended Months January, December

  • Ascend the Marshyangdi valley with the best view of the Himalayas.
  • Pass across picturesque villages, mountains, river gorges, and waterfalls.
  • Visit the old Buddhist monastery in Braga.
  • Explore the beautiful Manang village.
  • Visit one of the world’s high-altitude Tilicho Lake.

Detailed Itinerary

Expand All
Day 1:

Arrival in Kathmandu

Upon arrival, meet our representative and transfer to the hotel. Today, we have not planned any activity. You can relax at your hotel or take a self-guided tour around the locality. Dinner in the evening at a traditional Nepali Restaurant with a cultural performance. Overnight in Kathmandu.

MEALS:
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 1350m
Day 2:

In Kathmandu

Being the capital, there are several places of attraction within the Kathmandu valley. We will visit some World Heritage Sites including Kathmandu Durbar Square, Boudanath Stupa and Pashupatinath temple. Kathmandu Durbar Square is the palaces of the kings of Nepal. It is a collection of fascinating, shrines, statues and temples such as the Taleju temple, Kal Bhairav, Kasthamandap, Hanuman Dhoka and Kumari Ghar(the resident of the living goddes Kumari) and others. Boudhanath is one of the center of Buddhism in Nepal. Thousands of pilgrims gather daily to make kora(ritual circumnavigation), beneath the watchful eyes of the Buddha. Walk along with the pilgrims and visit the many shops and monasteries around the Stupa. After the visit we will drive a short distance to visit Pashupatinath temple, one of the holiest hindu site in Nepal. Although non Hindus cannot enter the main temple, but the surrounding complex with shrines, lingams, and ghats might interest you. Overnight in Kathmandu.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Day 3:

Drive to Chame

Today, we will take on a thrilling journey, which might just be the longest of our entire trip. The drive will go from Kathmandu to Besisahar. As we set off from Besisahar, we will trace the course of the Marshyangdi river, passing through a string of charming villages along the way, including Bulbule, Ngadi, Syange, Jagat, Chyamje, and Dharapani, before eventually reaching our destination of Chame. The journey from Kathmandu may take around 9-10 hours, depending on the condition of the road. Overnight in Chame.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 2670m
Duration Duration: 9-10hrs
Overnight Village Lodge/Tea House
Day 4:

Trek to Pisang

Our trek starts from Chame, we will follow the Marshyangdi river valley, through lush forests of rhododendron and pine trees. The hike today goes partly over a motorable road with the stunning views of Lamjung, Annapurna II, and Pisang Peak until Bhratang. We will leave Bhratang cross the Marshyangdi river, and then ascend towards Dhikur Pokhari. After a lunch break at Dhikur Pokhari, we will resume our journey towards Pisang village. Overnight in Pisang.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 3200m
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Overnight Village Lodge/Tea House
Day 5:

Trek to Ngawal

From Pisang we will take the upper route to Ngawal via Ghyaru, as it promises more spectacular experience. Along the way, we will follow a pleasant and easily navigable track that takes us past beautiful mani walls, cross over a suspension bridge and reach Ghyaru. From Ghyaru, The trail starts descending towards Ngawal with breathtaking views of the surroungding mountains. Overnight in Ngawal.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 3650m
Duration Duration: 6-7hrs
Overnight Village Lodge/Tea House
Day 6:

Trek to Braga

From Ngawal, we will descend over a steep trail down to the river valley. We come across more breathtaking scenery as the towering, peaks overwhelm our senses with panoramic views of Annapurna, Pisang Peak, and others. As we continue our journey, we begin to notice a distinct change in the landscape and vegetation as we head toward Humde. From Humde, it is relatively an easy of walk of about 3 hours to Braga. Overnight in Braga.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 3450m
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Overnight Village Lodge/Tea House
Day 7:

In Braga(acclimatization day)

It is important that you spend a day to for acclimatization. This will help you to adjust with the surrounding atmosphere before you continue toward the Thorong La Pass (5416m). There are several option for a day’s hike from Braga that offer magnificent views. One can go on a hike to the Chongkar viewpoint, revealing breathtaking panoramas. Alternatively, the hike to Ice Lake presents a mesmerizing experience. Another possibility is to visit Praken Gompa and Milarepa cave, immersing oneself in the cultural and spiritual heritage of the region. These options not only offer magnificent views but also serve as an opportunity to adapt to the high altitude surroundings. Overnight in Braga.

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MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Overnight Village Lodge/Tea House
Day 8:

Trek to Shree Kharka

Today’s journey is slow and uphill as we make our way towards the suspension bridge. After crossing the bridge, it is a steep ascent that will take approximately 2 hours to reach Khangsar village. After lunch at Khangsar, it is another two or more hours of trek until we reach Shree Kharka. Overnight in Shree Kharka.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 3800m
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Overnight Village Lodge/Tea House
Day 9:

Trek to Tilicho Base Camp

The trek to Tilicho Base Camp is generally gradual, with only a few uphill and downhill sections. We will climb uphill until we reach a high crest, and then descend using switchbacks that have been carved into a side valley. After crossing over a small river, we will finally arrive at Tilicho Base Camp. Overnight in Tilicho Base Camp.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 4200m
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Overnight Village Lodge/Tea House
Day 10:

Trek to Tilicho Lake-Shree Kharka

Today, in order to avoid the strong wind, we will start our day early. It is a steep uphill hike that will take approximately three hours and another hour on a more gradual incline until we reach the Tilicho Lake. Here, we will take some time to relax and soak in the beautiful surroundings. After enjoying our time at the Lake, we will descend and retrace our steps back to the Base Camp. Following our meal at the Base Camp, we will resume our hike, making our way back to Shree Kharka. Overnight in Shree Kharka.

From Khangsar, you also have the option to continue on the Annapurna Circuit route.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: Tilicho lake at 5425m
Duration Duration: 7-8hrs
Overnight Village Lodge/Tea House
Day 11:

Trek to Manang

After breakfast, we will begin the journey back to Manang, retracing the same path we took earlier, passing through Khangsar village. Along the way we can witness the local life and culture, experiencing the unique atmosphere of this remote Himalayan region. Overnight in Manang.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 3519m
Duration Duration: 6-7hrs
Overnight Village Lodge/Tea House
Day 12:

Trek to Pisang

From Manang, we will retrace our hike back to Pisang over a relatively flat trail as compared to some of the more challenging terrain we encountered earlier. It will take about 5-6 hours to complete the journey. Overnight in Pisang.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 3250m
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Overnight Village Lodge/Tea House
Day 13:

Drive to Pokhara

The drive to Pokhara is one of the longest drives on this trip. It will take approximately 7-8 hours or possibly even more to cover a distance of 183 kms. Despite the lengthy drive, the scenic views and anticipation of reaching Pokhara make it a worthwhile experience. Overnight in Pokhara.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Altitude Altitude: 822 m
Duration Duration: 7-8hrs
Day 14:

In Pokhara

Today we have planned for a full-day tour of Pokhara valley. We will begin with a boat ride for 1 hr at Phewa Lake. We will also visit the World Peace Pagoda, Gupteshwor Cave, Davis Falls, Tibetan Refugee Camp, and the International Mountain Museum. The evening is free to stroll around the lakeside and browse the shops. Overnight in Pokhara.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Altitude Altitude: 822m
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Day 15:

Fly to Kathmandu

After breakfast, we will drive you to the Pokhara airport to catch a flight to Kathmandu. Once you arrive in Kathmandu, our representative will receive and transfer you to your hotel. The remainder of the afternoon will be free to relax and enjoy at leisure. Overnight in Kathmandu.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Altitude Altitude: 1350m
Duration Duration: 6-7hrs
Day 16:

Departure

Transfer to the airport in time for your departure flight homewards.

MEALS:
Breakfast

Cost Information

Included

  • One full day of sightseeing with an entrance fee.
  • All transfers by private vehicle.
  • Accommodation in the above listed or similar(3-4*) hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara and local village lodges during the trek.
  • Only breakfast during the stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Three standard meals during the trek.
  • English-speaking local trekking guide along with a porter (one porter for every two members).
  • One way Pokhara-Kathmandu flight cost.
  • All necessary paperwork and permits (ACAP/TIMS)
  • One welcome/farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
  • All Government taxes and service charges.

Not included

  • Nepal entry visa.
  • International flight to and from Kathmandu.
  • Lunch and dinner or any other meal not specified above.
  • Personal Travel Medical Insurance.
  • Personal expenses such as bar, beverages, tips and gratuities, laundry, telephone, battery recharge, etc.
  • Hot showers during the trek.
  • Any extra cost incurred due to changing the itinerary due to unforeseen circumstances or early return from the trek.
  • Anything not listed in the included section

FAQs

  • What is the Tilicho Lake Trek?

    The Tilicho Lake Trek is a spectacular journey in the Annapurna region that leads to Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world at 4,919 meters. This trek is often combined with the classic Annapurna Circuit, with a side trail branching off toward the lake. It offers a perfect blend of adventure, remoteness, and stunning natural beauty.

  • How long is the Tilicho Lake Trek?

    The standard itinerary for the Tilicho Lake Trek ranges from 14 to 16 days, including arrival, travel, and trekking. Around 10–12 days are spent trekking, depending on the chosen route and acclimatization schedule.

  • What makes the Tilicho Lake Trek unique?

    The Tilicho Lake Trek stands out for its visit to one of the world’s highest lakes, set in a dramatic high-altitude basin surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The route diverges from the main Annapurna Circuit, offering a more remote and less crowded experience.

  • Where does the trek start and end?

    The Tilicho Lake Trek usually begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar and then to Chame, the starting point of this trek. From there, the trail follows the Annapurna Circuit through diverse landscapes, past traditional villages all the way to Manang. The trek typically concludes in Manang or Pisang, followed by a return drive to Kathmandu.

  • How difficult is this trek?

    This trek is rated moderate, involving:

    • 5–6 hours of walking daily
    • Steep ascents and descents
    • High-altitude conditions above 4,500 meters

    Proper fitness, endurance, and some prior trekking experience are highly recommended.

  • What is the highest point of the trek?

    The highest point of the trek is Tilicho Lake at 4,919 meters. However, if you include  Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters), it becomes the highest point and one.

  • What are the main highlights of this trek?

    The highlight of the trek is reaching Tilicho Lake, whose turquoise waters contrast beautifully with the barren alpine surroundings. Additional highlights include exploring culturally rich villages like Manang, and enjoying sweeping views of peaks such as Annapurna, Nilgiri, and Tilicho Peak.

  • What kind of landscapes will I experience?

    This trek offers remarkable diversity in scenery, beginning with subtropical forests and terraced farmland. As the altitude increases, the environment shifts to alpine meadows and eventually to stark, high-altitude desert terrain. You will also encounter deep river gorges, glacial valleys, and dramatic mountain backdrops, making it one of the most visually varied treks in Nepal.

  • When is the best time to do this trek?

    The ideal seasons for the Gokyo Lakes Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming rhododendron forests, while autumn offers crystal-clear skies and the best mountain visibility.

  • Is a guide mandatory for this trek?

    Yes, hiring a licensed guide is required for foreign trekkers in Nepal.

  • What permits are required?

    For this trek, you will require only the Annapurna Conservation Area permit.

  • Can I obtain permits independently?

    Permits can be obtained individually, but most trekkers arrange them through a trekking agency for convenience.

  • What type of accommodation is provided?

    In Kathmandu and Pokhara, we provide comfortable tourist standard boutique hotels and well-rated heritage properties (3-4* category). While during the trek comfortable tea house lodges with basic facilities.

  • What are teahouses like on this trek?

    Teahouse lodges are small, family-run guesthouses along the trail. These lodges usually offer:

    • Twin-sharing rooms
    • Basic bedding
    • Communal dining areas
    • Shared bathrooms

  • What meals are included?

    Only breakfast in Kathmandu & Pokhara with the option of eating out at the restaurant of your preference, while all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) along with some tea and coffee during the trek

  • What kind of food is available during the trek?

    Popular dishes include Dal Bhat (rice, lentil soup, and vegetables), Noodles and pasta, Fried rice, Potatoes and eggs, Bread, pancakes, and porridge, Soups and fresh vegetables. You can also find drinks and snacks such as tea, coffee, hot chocolate, lemon drinks, chocolate bars, and soft drinks.

  • Is drinking water available?

    Yes, bottled or boiled drinking water is available with an extra cost. The price tends to increase as you climb higher. We recommend carrying a reusable water bottle along with water purification tablets, a filter, or a UV purifier.

  • Is mobile network coverage available?

    Mobile coverage is available in lower areas like Manang but becomes weak or unavailable at higher altitudes.

  • Is WiFi available during the trek?

    WiFi is available in most teahouses with an extra cost, but speeds are slow and unreliable

  • Can I charge my devices?

    Yes, charging is available at teahouses for an additional fee. Electricity may rely on solar power in remote areas.

  • Is altitude sickness a concern?

    Yes, altitude sickness can occur above 2500 meters, to minimize this:

    • Follow a gradual ascent with proper acclimatization
    • Stay well-hydrated
      Avoid alcohol and overexertion
    • Inform your guide immediately
    • If symptoms persists descent to lower altitude immediately

  • Is travel insurance required?

    Yes, travel insurance covering medical expenses, high altitude trekking, and emergency evacuation is highly recommended.

  • What extra cost should I expect?

    Extra expenses include boiled/bottled drinking water, Wifi and charging, hot showers, snacks & beverages, and other personal expenses.

  • How much should I carry for extras?

    Plan on to carry USD 15-20 per day per person in local currency depending on your spending habit.

  • How much does this trek cost?

    The cost depends on factors such as the type of accommodation and group size. Typically, the price ranges from USD 1,200 to USD 1,500 per person, depending on the number of participants in the group. This package usually includes:

    • Accommodation in Kathmandu & Pokhara (3–4 star category hotel)
    • All necessary trekking permits
    • Accommodation during the trek in basic tea house
    • Three meals per day along with some tea/coffee during the trek
    • Domestic flights (Pokhara–Kathmandu)
    • Private transfer to Chame and Pokhara
    • Guide and porter services

  • How can I book this trip?

    Once your travel dates are finalized, simply complete the booking form on our website and submit your details along with the required deposit. Upon receiving the initial payment, we will send you a booking confirmation and proceed with all necessary land arrangements.

  • Do you accept cash on arrival?

    Yes, the balance payment can be paid in cash upon arrival in Kathmandu.

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