Tilicho Lake TrekTilicho Lake Trek

Tilicho Lake Trek

  • Duration13 Days
Tilicho Lake trek takes adventurers to the world's highest glacial lake, Tilicho, situated in Nepal's Manang District at an altitude of 4,949 meters. This trek is often combined with the Annapurna Circuit, as trekkers frequently visit Tilicho Lake before heading to the Thorong La Pass. Surrounded by the towering peaks of the Annapurna range, including the impressive Tilicho Peak at 7,134 meters, the lake stands as a key attraction. Spanning 13 days, the trek offers breathtaking landscapes and stunning mountain views, delivering a truly memorable experience. However, the path is known for its challenges, including rugged terrain and the risk of rockfalls.
 
Trek begins in Kathmandu, with a Jeep ride to Chame, where you join the famous Annapurna route. From Chame, the journey leads to the beautiful Manang village, often referred to as a Himalayan Shangri-La. After acclimatizing to the high altitude, the trek continues toward Tilicho Base Camp. The trail becomes narrower and more challenging after leaving Manang. Upon arrival at the base camp, trekkers greeted by the stunning sight of Tilicho Lake, providing a serene setting to relax and take in the beauty. The trek concludes with a scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, with the option to return to Kathmandu either by flight or overland via private or tourist bus. This trek is ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
  • Tilicho Lake trek offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Manaslu mountain ranges, accompanied by vibrant landscapes along the trails.
  • Trekkers can reach an altitude of 4,960 meters, making it an ideal route for those aiming to cross the Thorong La Pass.
  • Along the way, you'll encounter Nepal's highest lake, set against the backdrop of Tilicho Peak.
  • Tilicho trek also provides opportunities to experience the rich culture of local communities.
  • Throughout the journey, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of peaks such as Annapurna II (7,940 meters), Annapurna III, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, Manaslu (8,153 meters), Chulu East and West, Thorong Peak, Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters).

Best time to visit Manang Tilicho Lake

Best time to trek to Tilicho Lake is during the autumn months of October and November, and the spring months of March and April. Autumn is considered the ideal season for trekking in the Himalayas, with perfect weather conditions, clear skies, and stunning views of the mountains. The landscape after the monsoon is lush with green fields and blooming crops, making trekking in Nepal particularly enjoyable during this period. The visibility is excellent, allowing trekkers to see the majestic peaks all day, and the mild temperatures make for a comfortable trek. This is why autumn is the prime season for trekking to Tilicho Lake.
Spring, from early March to late May, is the second-best time for trekking. Like autumn, the weather is generally clear, and the lower Himalayan regions are filled with vibrant flowers, especially the colorful rhododendron forests. The scenery, combined with pleasant temperatures, makes trekking during this season equally rewarding.
Monsoon season, from June to September, is less favorable for trekking due to frequent rain, cloud cover over the mountains, and the risk of landslides and floods. Although some trekkers venture out during this time, it is not recommended due to the challenging conditions.
Winter, from December to February, brings very cold temperatures, with snow and cloud cover being common in the Himalayas. This makes trekking to Tilicho Lake difficult and less enjoyable.

13 Day Annapurna Tilicho Lake Trek Cost and Itinerary Overview

13 day Annapurna Tilicho Lake Trek closely follows the traditional Annapurna Circuit route, with the itinerary diverging at Manang Valley. Up until reaching Manang, the trail is the same as the Annapurna Circuit, but from there, trekkers take a detour through Sirikharka before reconnecting with the main Annapurna Circuit route at Yakkharka.
Annapurna Tilicho Trip begins with a private vehicle or bus ride to Besisahar, followed by a jeep transfer to Chame, where the actual trekking starts. The route from Manang to Tilicho Lake passes through key locations such as Pisang, Hungde, and Braga. The cost of the Tilicho Lake Trek is around $1,400 per person, though this may vary depending on factors like trek duration, season, accommodations, and services required. Major expenses include permits (TIMS and ACAP), three daily meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), accommodation in mountain lodges, as well as guide and porter services, and land or air transportation.

 

Itinerary

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Flying to Kathmandu is an exhilarating and unforgettable experience. On a clear day, you'll be treated to stunning panoramic views of the snow-covered peaks. After completing the necessary visa procedures at the airport, you'll head downstairs to collect your luggage. As you exit the terminal, a representative from Nepal Nomad Trekking will be there to greet you, holding a sign with your name on it. From there, you'll be escorted to your hotel in one of our vehicles. Upon arrival at the hotel, you'll receive a warm welcome, and then you can either unwind in your room or take a short stroll to explore the city.

    The 8-hour drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar involves a scenic drive along the Trisuli River, then a north-southeasterly journey to Chame. The journey is off-road and bumpy, passing through picturesque villages before reaching Chame.

      Chame to Pisang trail offers stunning valley views, covering 14.5 kilometers, taking 5-6 hours, and reaching Pisang with an elevation gain of 600 meters.

        We'll visit the traditional village of Manang, passing through Humde and Braka before reaching it. The walk is easy but thrilling, offering stunning views of Annapurna II and III, Gangapurna, Thorong Peak, and Pisang Peak. Visit Braga Monastery for Buddhist relics.

          Manang, a captivating village on the Annapurna Tilicho trek, offers an acclimatization day with hikes to either Ice Lake or Gangapurna Lake. Ice Lake requires a challenging climb, while Gangapurna offers stunning views and local Buddhist monasteries.

            Your visit Khangsar village, a picturesque settlement surrounded by Annapurna Himalayas, with stunning views of Annapurna peaks and Manang Valley, taking 4 hours and nearly 600 meters on the trail.

              Hike to Tilicho Base Camp is a challenging, narrow, and rocky path with stunning mountain views. Due to limited tea houses, booking is crucial, especially during peak season.

                Early in the morning, you will head to the world’s highest lake, Tilicho Lake 4919meter (16138 feet) , a trek that takes about 2 to 3 hours. The trail gradually ascends; requiring you to climb nearly 1 km. Tilicho Lake is a dream destination, offering the chance to leave your mark at the world’s highest lake. In winter, the lake is entirely frozen, but during spring and autumn, you can capture stunning views of the lake along with the majestic Annapurna Himalayas. The Tilicho Lake trail also connects with the challenging Meshokanto La Pass trek. After visiting Tilicho Lake, the trail leads to Shri Kharka, located between Tilicho Base Camp and Yark Kharka.

                  Journey to Ledar begins with breakfast and follows an uphill trail to Yak Kharka, offering stunning landscape views. The trail then rejoins the Annapurna Circuit trail, taking 3-4 hours. After reaching Ledar, it's recommended to climb 100 meters to acclimatize to the high altitude.

                    Journey from Ledar to Thorong Phedi is a gradual but challenging trek through rocky and rugged terrain. The trail initially follows a gradual ascent, passing through a stunning alpine landscape, with views of towering peaks and deep valleys. You'll cross the suspension bridge over the Kone Khola and continue towards Thorong Phedi, the last stop before crossing the Thorong La Pass. The trek takes around 3 to 4 hours, and upon reaching Thorong Phedi, it’s recommended to rest and acclimatize in preparation for the next day's challenging ascent to Thorong La Pass. This is a crucial stop, as altitude sickness is a concern at this elevation.

                      Today, you trek on the challenging and beautiful journey to Thorong La Pass, aiming to accomplish a significant milestone. In the early morning, you’ll set off towards the highest Thorong La Pass. The trail steadily ascends to the pass, which can be difficult if there’s a lot of snow. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of various mountains, and you’ll have the chance to leave your mark at this remarkable pass. It’s important to pack lunch and water for the crossing.
                      After reaching the top of Thorong La, the trail descends toward Muktinath. Muktinath is a revered pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, nestled among the Trans-Himalayas. Here, you can visit the Muktinath Temple and several Buddhist monasteries. The name Muktinath translates to "the place for Nirvana or Liberation," making it a truly sacred destination.

                        After visiting the temples, you’ll begin our final day of trekking. As you follow the main trail down the valley, you’ll be surrounded by the rugged landscape of a barren valley, marked by wind-eroded rocks, set against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks. A steep descent will lead us to the Kali Gandaki Valley, where you’ll reach Kagbeni, one of the oldest villages along this route. From there, you’ll continue via Eklabatti, finishing our trek with a gentle walk to Jomsom.

                          Flights from Jomsom to Pokhara are typically scheduled for the early morning to avoid the strong winds that develop later in the day in the Kali Gandaki Valley. The short flight offers breathtaking views as you travel down the valley, showcasing the stunning peaks of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri. Once you arrive in Pokhara, you'll have plenty of time to explore the area for the rest of the day. Consider renting a bike to visit popular attractions such as Fewa Lake, Devi's Falls, the museum, the Tibetan Refugee Camp, and Gupteshwar Cave or take connecting flight to Kathamdnu Late afternoon after beautifiul lunch.

                            What's Included
                            • Transfers: Private vehicle (Car, Van, Hi-ace, or Coaster) for airport-hotel-airport transportation.
                            • Welcome Dinner: Authentic Nepali welcome dinner with a live cultural program.
                            • Accommodation in Kathmandu: 1 nights on a twin-share bed and breakfast basis.
                            • Accommodation in Pokhara: 1 night on a twin-share bed and breakfast basis.
                            • Trekking Accommodation: 11 nights in local lodges with twin-share rooms, comfortable foam mattresses, and pillows.
                            • Meals During Trek: All standard meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) included.
                            • Guide: Experienced English-speaking Sherpa guide (Govt. trained and licensed).
                            • Assistant Guide: One assistant guide if the group has more than 4 trekkers.
                            • Porters: One porter for every 2 trekkers (maximum 25 kg per porter).
                            • Trek Staff Costs: Includes salary, insurance, equipment, food, and accommodation for trek staff.
                            • Personal Insurance: Coverage for Nepalese staff.
                            • Duffle Bag: Nepal Nomad Trekking duffle bag for your trekking gear.
                            • Energy Supplies: Snacks such as Snickers, Mars, and Bounty.
                            • First Aid Kit: Basic medical supplies for the trek.
                            • Permits: Annapurna Conservation Fee, TIMS permits, and all required official documentation.
                            • Airfare: Jomsom to Pokhara for guests and guides.
                            • Ground Transfers: Tourist standard bus from Kathmandu to Besisahar and from Pokhara to Kathmandu.
                            • Taxes: All government and local taxes included.
                            What's not Included
                            • Personal Travel Insurance: Not included; please ensure you have adequate coverage.
                            • Nepal Entry Visa Fee: Not included; please arrange this prior to your arrival.
                            • Meals in Cities: Lunch and dinner in tourist restaurants are not included; budget approximately $10 to $15 per meal.
                            • Beverages: Costs for drinks, mineral water, boiled water, and beer are not included.
                            • Tips: Gratuities for the guide, porters, and driver are customary and not included.
                            • Extra Accommodation: Any additional nights in Kathmandu or Pokhara due to an early return from the trek (for any reason) are not included.
                            Price Per PersonUS$1475

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