Trip Details
  • Destination: Nepal
  • Trip Difficulty: Strenuous
  • Trip Style: Trekking
  • Transport: Private Vehicle / Bus / Aeroplane
  • Food: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel + Teahouses + Lodges
  • Group Size: 15
  • Max Elevation: 4920m
Highlights

- Pokhara valley and its natural and cultural blessings like lakes, caves, falls and temples

- Pleasant walk via lush rhododendron and other vegetations

- Picturesque ethnic settlements and their unique culture

- Experience of core Remoteness and wilderness

- Rhythmic natural waterfalls and creeks

- locally grown organic food items

- Annapurna Conservation Area, the largest conservation area in the world, and its diverse species of flora and fauna

- Spectacular mountain views include Annapurna- I, Annapurna-IV, Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Himchuli, Machhapuchhre, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal and some part of Dhaulagiri

Tilicho Lake Trekking is popular as one of the most rewarding and classical journeys to exotic Tilicho Lake located at an elevation of (4920m). Moreover, this is a journey to a serene turquoise lake located in the high Himalayan region of Manang. Tilicho Lake is widely acclaimed as a sacred lake in Ramayan– a holy book of Hindus. So, the trip to Tilocho Lake is both a natural and spiritual journey.

Tilicho Lake  Trekking not only takes us to the high Himalayan lake, this Tilicho Lake trekking is situated around the Annapurna region but also offers a magnificent view of mountain peaks including  Lamjung Himal 6932mAnnapurna II 7939m, Annapurna IV 7525m, Annapurna III 7555m, Gangapurna 7454m, and other major snow-blanketed peaks. We also have an opportunity to explore the diverse traditions and culture of beautiful Tibetan settlements and people. Mesokanto La Pass 5120m also popular as Tilicho Pass is a challenge to the trekkers. However, the mesmerizing landscapes, picturesque Tibetan settlements, and most significant, hugely snow-fed mountain peaks are fabulous.  

As Tilicho Lake Trekking is a part of Annapurna Circuit Trekking, this trekking commences from Besisahar after we drive for 7-8 hours from Kathmandu. Then we follow the trail along the Marshyangdi River all the way to Manang. Trekkers normally take a day's rest at Manang for acclimatization and further exploration of the premises. Then we catch the northwest trail and head to Tilicho Lake Base Camp and a serene and turquoise color lake, Tilicho Lake. The tranquillity around the surrounding is really impressive.

Now, we have a challenging high pass, Mesokanto La Pass and we descend to Chauri Kharka. Chauri Kharka is high pasture land for grazing yaks. After that, we descend all the way down to Jomsom. Finally, we end this trekking with a scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara and we drive to Kathmandu. Since you are going to encounter a high pass during the Tilicho Lake trek, you require to prepare very well. Prior trekking and hiking experiences and skills are recommended to conquer Tilicho Lake. 

Itinerary

Open All Days Close All Days
Day 01:Arrive at Kathmandu Tribhuwan International Airport and Pickup.

Upon your arrival at Tribhuban International Airport, you are greeted and welcomed by the representative from Magic Expedition and travel and will be transferred to the hotel. Our Magic Expedition and Tour representative will explain briefly about the program after you get refreshed. Overnight at hotel

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • Hotel
  • Kathmandu
  • 1400m

This is completely a guided city tour with private vehicle. We go to explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites located in Kathmandu, today. This sightseeing of world heritage sites in Kathmandu city includes Kathmandu Darbar Square, Swayambhunath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa & Pashupatinath Temple. Kathmandu Durbar Square is popular for both religious and historical significance whereas rests of them are only for religious importance. After, we end this city sightseeing tour, we do some preparations for the trek if required. Overnight at hotel, inclusive of breakfast.

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • Hotel
  • Kathmandu
  • 1400m

 Get ready for the departure to Besisahar after breakfast at your hotel; we will depart at 8 am with  the guide and other trekking crew. This is a scenic drive to Beshisahar along Prithvi Highway till we get Dumre . Before that, we pass Trishuli river and Mugling. While driving we will have many chances to observe the rural settings, people & various cultures along the highway. We spend around 8-9 hours for this drive. Overnight at local guesthouse, inclusive of full board meals.

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • Tea House
  • Besisahar

Today, we will drive along rough country roads. Actually, in the past people had to walk from Besisahar to Chame because there was no roadway connecting from Besisahar to Chame. Still, some people prefer walking  from Besisahar to Chame. This  drive today climbs along the mule track through the forest of fir, oak and maple and other various species of woods. On this portion of drive today, trekkers will also enjoy dramatic views of major Himalayan peaks. Overnight at guesthouse, inclusive of full board meals

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • Tea House
  • Chame
  • 2630m

The trail follows through the steep and narrow river valley with deep forest. Along the way, you will be rewarded with the best mountain views including Pisang peak and Annapurna II. We will have a few stops to capture the views on the way. Overnight at guesthouse, inclusive of full board meals.

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • Tea House
  • Pisang
  • 3300m

Today, we will enjoy the walk via spectacular arid landscapes in the upper part of the Manang district. This section of Mustang district seldom receives rain in a year. Actually, we have two different routes to get Manang from Chame. The adventure enthusiasts choose to go with the upper route which may take 2 more hours than the lower/easier route via Humde. You can decide which trail you are going with. Your guide also suggests you according to your interest and physical fitness. On the way, you will celebrate the unforgettable setting of Mustang. Overnight at guesthouse, inclusive of full board meals

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • Tea House
  • Manang
  • 3570m

Rest to acclimatize is mandatory in higher elevation in order to adopt new elevation. This is a rest day to acclimatize to the higher altitude in Manang. Manang is a beautiful town offering magnificent mountain views and the unique culture of the local people. You will go to visit  monastery, a short trip to Gangapurna Lake, undertake some tours with the incredible views around the villages. Also, we go to visit the Himalayan Rescue Association Clinic and have some information about it. Overnight at local guesthouse, inclusive of full board meals.

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • Tea House
  • Manang
  • 3570m

We have a day rest in Manang, we continue our trek to Tilicho Lake. We come out of Manang via the western gate. Now, we have descent till we get Khangsar Khola ( river). Cross the bridge over Khangsar River and climb up to the village. This is a traditional Tibetan village called Khangsar. This is also considered as the last settlement of Nepal bordering to Tibet. Overnight at guesthouse, inclusive of full board meals.

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • Tea House
  • Khangsar
  • 3734m

Initially, we pass a monastery. Now, the path goes up to a high ridge. We again have two trails here. The old one is really steep and scary and the newly constructed is mild. We catch the new way, climb up and descend to the valley. We can see a creek at the bottom of the valley. We get Tilicho Lake Base Camp on the other side of the creek. (Overnight at local tea house on full board basis)

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • Tea House
  • Tilicho Base Camp
  • 4140m

Today, we need to begin our trip a bit earlier than usual. It is because the strong wind may obstruct our journey. So, we start our trek at 6 or 6.30. We trek via arid and barren landscapes till we get Tilicho Lake. It is around 3-4 hours trip to Tilicho Lake from Tilicho Base Camp. Tilicho Lake is the prime attraction of this trek because the lake is considered to be the lake located at the highest elevation of the world. We spend sometime exploring the lake and the surrounding. We return back to Base Camp later because there are no lodges for overnight stay. (Overnight at tea house on full board basis)

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • Tea House
  • Tilicho Base Camp
  • 4140m

We begin backtracking along the same way today. On backtracking, we still enjoy the landscapes and the wilderness pass via. The mountain summits on the way equally fascinate us. We again spend another night in this beautiful Tibetan village of Khangsar. (Overnight at tea house on full board basis)

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • Tea House
  • Khangsar

 Cross the bridge over Khangsar Khola ( river) and enjoy the walk down to Manang. Pass via traditional settlements and experience mountain people’s culture. Manang is a popular town on the way o Tilicho Lake with holy monasteries and local shops. (Overnight at tea house on full board basis)

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • Tea House
  • Manang

Leave Manang from the west gate and walk via forested area and spectacular landscapes. On the way, you will witness magnificent Pisang Peak and Annapurna-II. (Overnight at tea house on full board basis)

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • Tea House
  • Pisang

Trek from Pisang to Chame – Overnight-

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • Tea House
  • Chame

This drive is, again, along the rough road. The drive is going to be beautiful as we pass through rural setting and traditional settlements. Arrive at Besisahar and celebrate the victory of the adventure trek. Wait for the bus to Kathmandu. (Overnight at tea house on full board basis)

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • Tea House
  • Besi Sahar

Leave Besisahar in the morning after breakfast. Pass Dumre, Mugling, and Malekhu respectively and get Kathmandu finally.  Attend farewell cultural dinner in the evening with our team. Hangout the evening or night at restaurants in Thamel if you want. Overnight at the hotel in Kathmandu.

  • BF / Lunch / Dinner
  • Hotel
  • Kathmandu
  • 1400m

We drop you to Tribhuvan International Airport to catch your international flight. Wish you a safe flight homewards.

  • BF
  • Non
  • Kathmandu

Trip Map

Tilicho Lake Trek map

What to Expect

  • Airport transfers – pick up and drop
  • Transportation Kathmandu-Besisahar and from trek ending point to Kathmandu by Bus.
  • 3 meal per day and overnight accommodation in Hotel/lodges along the trekking trail.
  • Supporting staffs (trekking guide and porters), as well as their necessary insurance fee, meals and allowances
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) entrance permit fee
  • Hotel accommodation according to the above plan in Kathmandu.
  • TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) 
  • International airfare.
  • Travel / medical insurance and emergency evacuation cost
  • Personal expenses such as telephone calls, alcoholic beverages, donation, tips etc…

Useful Info

Necessary Trekking Equipment

To fully enjoy your trek, having the right trekking equipment is essential for both safety and comfort. The trekking equipment necessary depends on the type of trek, the time of year, weather conditions, the landscape, and the maximum altitude of the trek. A properly packed trekking backpack is light and also includes multipurpose clothing items. It is important for you not to forget the essential equipment for your safety and comfort on your trek.

Please make sure that you bring sufficiently warm clothes, especially during the winter season (Dec – Feb). Not having the required trekking equipment and clothing will not only significantly decrease the pleasure of trekking, but could also worsen case scenarios that could be life-threatening. It will also be a burden to you if you pack unnecessary equipment. For your ease, the following are the equipment that you have to bring with you. 

Footwear

  • Trekking Boot: one Pair
  • Socks: 4, Light socks : 3, Sandle: 1

Clothing

  • Down  or Fiber-filled water and windproof jacket and trouser: 1
  • Fleece Jacket / Pullover: 1
  • Warm cotton trousers: 2
  • Shirt and T-shirts: 4
  • Lightweight cotton long trousers :3
  • Long underwear: 2,  Short underwear: 4
  • Sun hat / Scarft/ Woolen hat :1
  • Lightweight gloves: 1, Raincoat:1
  • Heavyweight glove or mitten with a waterproof: 1

Medicinal

  • Basic first-aid box
  • Diamox tablets to reduce altitude sickness
  • Insect/anti-itch Ointment
  • Non-prescription medicine such as pain relievers, fever reducers, antibiotics, and ointments
  • Prescription medicine for traveler's diarrhea, Avmoine 
  • Female Sanitary pads
  • Hand Sanitizer and wet wipes
  • Medicine for Cough and Heartburn (It mainly happens when you go to higher altitudes)
  •  Band-aid
  • Ibuprofen and also paracetamol in case of fever 

Other Equipment

  • Day Pack at Least 25 kg
  • Water Bottle 1
  • Sun Cream 1
  • Sun Glass 1
  • Towel
  • Flashlight with spare bulbs, batteries, lip salve, and gaiters.
  • Laundry soap
  • Swiss Knife
  • Sewing Kit, Camera, Film, Cards, and Personal Medical Kit.

Optional

  • Notebook and Pen
  • Toilet articles
  • Toilet Roll

For additional information, you can check our article  Trekking Gears Checklist

Gateway For Tilicho Lake Trek:

If you are planning to do Tilicho Lake Trek the only gateway to this trek is from the Besi Sahar. Besi Sahar is a small valley that is just 172.9 km from Kathmandu. The time duration to get to the Besi Sahar is a 4 to 5hrs drive from Kathmandu. There is a variety of options to go there. You can either take the Local Bus or can hire a Private Vehicle. It all depends on your Budget.

Type of Accommodation During Tilicho Lake Trek:

To go trekking means you are visiting a remote area so please do not expect every trekking route you will get a luxurious room same as in Kathmandu and Pokhara. During trekking, you will sleep at the Tea House. The Tea house means normal Local Lodges. where you will get a normal Bed, Blanket, and Common Bathroom. Even a hot shower also needs to pay extra.

Food And Drinks:

During Trekking in Nepal. In most of the places you will get Local Foods like Nepali Thali ( Dal Bhat), MoMo, Chowmin, Thukpa, Fried Rice, etc and some international food Like Spaghetti, Macaroni, Pizza, Pan Cake, Fried Eggs, etc you will get according to the menu. For drinks, you can get Local Tea, Coffee, and also even if you request water for drinks need to pay extra.

How will I get rescued if I am critically ill during the trek?

Tilicho Lake Trek is a trek where the elevation starts from 1350m to 4920m. Altitude sickness mainly occurs after you head above 2500m. You will not get altitude sickness symptoms below 2500m. Some of the altitude sickness symptoms are Nausea, Headache, loss of appetite, difficulty breathing, and dizziness. Acclimatization is the main thing that helps to prevent altitude sickness. But you can still prevent altitude sickness by drinking more water, avoiding strenuous exercise for 24 hours, and by having a rest day every 600m-900m you go up.

However, one out of 10 people may catch altitude sickness even with all the preventions. We can take DIAMOX if we suffer from altitude sickness. But if the condition does not get well even after taking the Diamox, the guide will immediately inform the travel company. If you will be ill at any point of the trek you will be slowly taken to the lower elevation. If you are ill, then you will be taken to the lower altitude and seek basic medical where our guide will help you, and then if it’s necessary or emergency you will be immediately sent to Kathmandu by emergency helicopter service. This is how you will get rescued if you will be critically ill during the trek.

The importance of insurance in Tilicho Lake Trek Trek

Travel insurance plays an essential role. The right travel insurance will protect you from the unique risks while traveling to Nepal or Climbing Tilicho Lake Trek. Find the best policies that cover all the necessary events associated with Tilicho Lake Trek or other trekking areas. There will not be a relaxed trip without travel insurance. It is very necessary to be careful while choosing policies because some insurance companies do not include adventure trekking. Mostly many of travel insurance covers only up to the elevation of 3000m but Tilicho Lake Trek will go beyond 3000m standing at the highest point which will be above 4500m.

We suggest you choose Your travel insurance that covers up to 6000m which you will be covered for the entire trek and shouldn't be worried about evacuations or medical assistance costs. Before buying your insurance, your insurer should be aware of the Itinerary of Magic Expedition and Tours. If you are planning to trek in the Himalayas, Your insurance should cover emergency air service Helicopters and should include all the medical expenses. The emergency helicopter service would be very costly so If you have your insurance done you wouldn’t be worried. Your travel insurance should cover the cancelation policy because if you have to cancel a paid trek due to weather conditions, They can cover this expense. You should double-check that it is included on the top of the standard hospitalization cover. Some of the Travel insurances that are recommended are:-

Client Reviews

Trip Advisor Trust Pilot