Trip Overview
he Tilicho Lake Trek is a 15-day journey in the Annapurna region that takes you to one of the world’s highest-altitude lakes, Tilicho.
The trek is one of the most challenging trekking excursions in the Annapurna region because the lake is situated in a remote location in the region. For trekkers looking for challenging and exciting hikes in the Annapurna region, the Tilicho Lake Trek is perfect for them.
The tough Thorong-La Pass must be crossed on the trek leading trekkers to discover the Annapurna region’s hidden natural and cultural features. The dry landscape of the region resembles the Tibetan Plateau and is truly a sight to behold. The pure turquoise water of the lake and the heavenly surroundings leave visitors in awe. As you traverse through the trail, you will encounter villages inhabited by people from various ethnic groups.
This journey provides a rewarding exploration for hikers by leading them to view a variety of organically adorned beauty of nature which leaves them in awe. A breathtaking view of the area’s majestic mountains, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, and Himchuli, can be seen on the hike.
Embarking on this trek will provide you with unforgettable experiences that will last a lifetime. This challenging trek offers immeasurable rewards and is a must-visit destination for nature and adventure lovers.
Hindus from all over the world congregate in Tilicho Lake to take sacred baths because it is one of their holiest lakes. During your journey, you will visit The Muktinath Temple, a sacred temple in Nepal that is visited mostly by Hindu and Buddhist people from Nepal. There are vibrant monasteries and Gompas in the valley which depict the culture and tradition of various Nepalese ethnic groups.
This journey is an exploration of lush woods and green forests where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. The thundering waterfalls and serene lakes along with the river will leave you mesmerized. Although the journey can be challenging, the beautiful scenery and the local hospitality will make you feel like it was all worth it.
Starting from Kathmandu, the trek follows the famous Annapurna trail. After driving to Chame, the journey begins with a hike to the picturesque Manang village, often referred to as a Himalayan Shangri-La.
You can take some time to rest and acclimatize to the high altitude before continuing the trek to the Tilicho base camp. The trail becomes narrow and slightly challenging once you leave the village of Manang.
Upon reaching the base camp, you will be greeted by the mesmerizing beauty of Tilicho Lake.
After visiting the Lake, the trail continues to Yak Kharka and joins the regular route that crosses the Thorong La Pass (5416m). With this route, you can also visit Muktinath via the Plateau of Kagbeni and return to Jomsom, which are also the starting points of the scenic Upper Mustang Jeep Tour. If you have limited time, you can choose to trek back to Chame and drive back to Kathmandu or Pokhara. Throughout the trek, you will witness a variety of vegetation zones, from lush sub-tropical areas to harsh semi-desert regions.
Highlights
Experience the beauty of the highest altitude lake in Nepal, Tilicho Lake (4919m), surrounded by picturesque villages and turbulent river gorges
An incredible view of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges and peaks such as Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Nilgiri, Mt. Chulu, Thorung, Mt. Dhawalagiri, Mt. Lamjung, etc
Walk through the lush forests of rhododendrons and oaks with the mountains on the backdrop
Discover the unique cultures and traditions of the Magar, Gurung, and Thakali people
Cross the Thorong La Pass to have an incredible view of the surrounding peaks
Get a picturesque view of glaciers, moraine valleys, rivers, waterfalls, and Kali Gandaki gorge
Enjoy the natural hot springs along the way
Visit the Manang Valley and explore the culture of the people
Collect blessings from Muktinath Temple, one of the renowned pilgrimage sites of Hindus and Buddhists
Explore different gompas and monasteries during the trek
Tilicho Lake Trek with Annapurna Circuit
The Tilicho Lake Trek leads you to the exploration of the Annapurna Circuit along with Nepal’s highest-altitude lake, Tilicho.
This journey offers majestic panoramic views of the Annapurna range and a diverse cultural experience. The trek takes you through deep valleys and high mountains, surrounded by the magnificent Annapurna Himalayas.
Most of the trek follows the Annapurna circuit route along the Marsyangdi River valley, providing breathtaking views of Manaslu and Himal Chuli to the east. Each day offers a unique landscape, starting from the subtropical climate and ending at the snow line. The trek also allows you to witness a lake at such a high altitude, which holds great religious significance.
Short Itinerary
DETAILED ITINERARY
The cityscape of Kathmandu and Boudhanath Stupa
As you fly into Kathmandu, you’ll have beautiful views over the valley, the Himalaya, and of the terraced fields below. After going through customs, a representative will be waiting to guide you through the initial culture shock of Kathmandu’s narrow, winding streets and get you settled into your hotel. Once you’ve settled in, head out and visit one of Kathmandu’s cultural highlights. In the evening, the tourist hub of Thamel is a good place to grab your first meal, with a variety of restaurants to chose from offering both Western and local Nepali dishes.
Boudhanath Stupa
Kathmandu has a special atmosphere during the early morning hours when the city is slowly coming to life yet not too chaotic. It’s a great time to walk and explore the streets or have a chai overlooking one of the local courtyards or durbar squares. There are a number of ways you can spend the day given the many incredible sights around the Kathmandu Valley. Later in the evening, head out for dinner at one of the city’s great eateries, or your specialist can arrange a home-cooked dinner with a local family.
Room with a view in Pokhara
After breakfast, leave the Kathmandu Valley and travel overland to Pokhara. En route, follow the banks of the Trisuli River, past traditional villages and terraced fields. If the weather is good there will be picturesque views of the Himalayan Range.
After a couple of hours, stop to enjoy some rafting! It is not too wild and provides a great introduction to the sport, while still giving some splashes and thrills. Then, enjoy lunch at the Riverside Springs Resort, set on a hillside beside the Trisuli River with outstanding views.
After arriving in Pokhara, check into your hotel and then head out to explore the lakeside and relax over dinner. Pokhara, set on Phewa Lake, is an enchanting city. From there, you can see Mt. Machhapuchhare (22,890 ft. / 6977 m.), also known as Fishtail Peak. The city is the starting point for many treks in Nepal. The valley surrounding Pokhara is home to thick forests, gushing rivers, clear lakes, and world-famous views of the Himalaya.
Unset over the AnnaSpurna range
After breakfast, drive for about an hour from Pokhara to the starting point of the trek. After an unhurried lunch with awesome mountain views at the Australian Camp, descend to Pothana (6397 ft. / 1950 m.). Your first night’s accommodation has a wonderful view of Machhapuchare.
Trekking through villages to Forest Camp
Today’s trek heads off into the wilderness, leaving tourists, other trekkers, and even villagers behind. Enter an enchanted forest of birch, giant rhododendron, mountain oak, maple, and hemlock. If the weather is clear there will be stunning mountain views while trekking.
Hiking time: 5 hours
Variety of high-altitude vegetation on display
As the route climbs, the flora turns to classic ‘cloud forest’ with mosses and lichen, tree ferns, and orchids hosted by the hardier trees. There are natural windows in the woods that look out onto thrilling panoramas, towards Hiunchuli and the knife-sharp traverse towards Annapurna South. Far below, to your left, you will be able to see the Modi Khola Valley leading up into the Annapurna Sanctuary.
Reach camp for lunch—this is our destination for the day, spending the afternoon at altitude for acclimatization. Though still surrounded by forest, there are spectacular northerly views of the ever-closer ‘Fishtail’.
Hiking time: 5 hours
Views from the trek to High Camp
Just a short, steep climb and you are out of the forest. A ridge, grassy and sometimes under snow, leads up to High Camp. Reach by lunchtime and spend the afternoon acclimatizing with awesome views. Annapurna South will seem a stone’s throw away, and Machhapuchare close enough to touch.
Hiking time: 4 hours
Mardi Himal Base Camp
Have an early breakfast and then set off for Mardi Himal Base Camp. If conditions are favorable you will trek up to 16,404 ft. (5000 m.) where only the crest of Mardi Himal separates you from the south face of Machhapuchare. The great ice fields and blue glaciers of the Sanctuary Wall lie below. Annapurna I, highest of all, is beyond, and the surrounding panorama sweeps from Dhaulagiri to Ganesh Himal.
In the early afternoon, it will be time to descend. Enjoy a warming drink and hot food at your tea house at Middle Camp.
Hiking time: 8 hours
Trek to Kalimati
After a relaxed breakfast, trek gently through the shade of the forest and out onto terraced fields, descending 5249 ft. (1600 m.) You will follow a different route down, to the upper Mardi Khola, the torrent that was once the ice and snow of the Mardi Himal. Although remote and still off the beaten ‘tea-house’ trekking routes, your expedition now follows the arm valley and past friendly villages into Kalimati.
Hiking time: 5 hours
Homestay in Lwang
The path from Siding gradually follows the contour of the river valley, down between the pastures and through Tamang and Gurung villages. Eventually, you’ll arrive at Lwang village, your stop for the night. Here, there are organic tea gardens. In the evening, meet a mothers’ group that works to raise money for local projects.
Enjoy an overnight in your unique and authentic homestay.
Hiking time: 5 hours
Village homes in the mountains
Take an easy walk along an outcrop and back to the road, where you’ll meet your transportation back to Pokhara.
Village homes in the mountains
Take an easy walk along an outcrop and back to the road, where you’ll meet your transportation back to Pokhara.
Include
Map & Elevation
Map & Elevation
Gallery
Reviews
REVIEW REQUESTS
Enter a recent customer’s contact info and we’ll ask them to leave you a review.
