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Hotels & Guesthouse
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Kathmandu
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March to May & Sep to Dec
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Private Vehicle
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Moderate
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5416 M
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Eco-Tour, Hiking, Trekking
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2-20
Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek
Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek
- A remarkable fusion of two iconic Annapurna treks: the classic Annapurna Circuit and the demanding Tilicho Lake trek.
- Discover the expansive Annapurna Conservation Area in Nepal, a sanctuary of diverse landscapes.
- Explore the picturesque village of Manang, a well-known acclimatization stop along the Annapurna Circuit trek.
- Test your limits on the rewarding trek to Tilicho Lake, the highest lake in the world accessible by foot.
- Savor breathtaking views of Some of the world's most renowned peaks, including Mt. Annapurna, Nilgiri, Chulu, Tukuche, Dhaulagiri, and Lamjung.
- Visit the historic Braga Monastery, the largest in the region, and soak in the serene ambiance of Tibetan Buddhist culture.
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Gurung and Magar communities as you journey along the Annapurna trekking trail.
- Trek through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world.
- Ascend the legendary Thorong La Pass, one of the world's highest accessible passes, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.
- Explore Muktinath Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site cherished by both Hindus and Buddhists, and connect with its deep spiritual significance.
- Enjoy a captivating flight from Pokhara to Jomsom, providing an unforgettable aerial view of the majestic Annapurna Himalayan Range.
- Take the chance to unwind and rejuvenate in Pokhara after completing the Annapurna Tilicho Lake trek.
Tilicho Lake Trek Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,345m) at any time. Our office representative will welcome you and transfer you to the hotel. Simply take pleasure and relax in the fun of driving through the unfamiliar roads. A short briefing about the trip will be given after transferring you to the hotel. Enjoy your overnight stay in the hotel.
Today will be an exhilarating day where you will be introduced to the most pious Hindu and Buddhist religious places listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. You will explore Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Patan Durbar Square, and Swayambhunath Stupa.
We will start our trek by driving along the highway to Dumre, following the winding road to Beshishar. The drive offers views of picturesque villages and mountain peaks. After approximately 6-7 hours of driving and enjoying the mesmerizing view of the Marsayandi River, we will reach Bhulbhule. Stay overnight at Bhulbhule.
Today we begin our trek by following a pleasant trail through terraced fields and fertile jungle along the Marsayandi River. We will pass through several rural settlements and farmlands, eventually reaching the peaceful village of Jagat, a former trading post. Stay overnight at Jagat.
Today we will trek along the Marsayandi River, ascending steeply to enter the Manang region at the valley named Tal. We will pass through waterfalls and sandy beaches, following the trail through rice, potato, and barley fields, and the village of Kodo. After a short climb of the stone Kani, we will reach Dharapani. Stay overnight at Dharapani.
Today we will trek towards Chame, passing through pine and oak forests to reach Danakyu. We will walk a steep path to reach Tamang, a village rich in gorgeous landscapes lying at the foot of Lumjung Himal (6,893m). Continuing on relatively flat terrain, we will reach Chame, where we can enjoy the hot springs. Stay overnight at Chame.
We will start our trek with a view of the sunrise over Lamjung Himal. We will follow a high, rocky trail covered with pine forests, enjoying an excellent panorama of Annapurna II (7,937m) and Pisang Peak (6,091m). Stay overnight at Pisang.
We will trek towards a steep ridge, offering picturesque views of Tilicho Peak and Manang Valley (7,145m). We will descend past the airstrip at Hungde and reach a flat area with magnificent views of the northeast face of Annapurna III (7,555m). We will also see Annapurna IV (7,525m) from Dabje Khola Valley and the village of Murgji. Overnight stay at Manang.
We will leave the trail leading to Tanki Manang and head towards Kangsar. We will see Thorong Khola, Gangapurna Tal, and Gangapurna Khola, surrounded by natural beauty. We will explore the area and spend the night at Khangsar.
Embark on a thrilling ascent from Khangsar to Tilicho Base Camp at 4,140 meters, surrounded by stunning Himalayan scenery as you approach the pristine Tilicho Lake.
From Tilicho Base Camp, we will hike to Tilicho Lake, the highest altitude lake in the world at 4,919m. The lake is formed by the glacial melt from Mount Tilicho and Thorong Peak. After enjoying the breathtaking views, we will head back to Tilicho Base Camp for our night stay.
From the base camp, we will walk through the trail back to Kangsar, then head uphill towards Upper Khangsar and downhill towards Thorong River. After crossing the bridge over the Thorong River, we will move towards Ghyanchang River and Yak Kharka, where we will stay overnight.
We will set off for Thorong Phedi, ascending the rocky trail and descending to the headwaters of the Marsayandi River. Enjoy the beautiful panorama of the Annapurna range. Stay overnight at Thorong Phedi.
Today we will trek towards Thorong-La Pass (5,416m) and enjoy spectacular views of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri range, and Thorong Peak. After crossing the pass, we will descend to Muktinath, a famous pilgrimage site. Stay overnight at Muktinath.
We will descend to Jgarkot and Khingar, walking through the village of Kagbeni and downhill through apple orchards. We will continue walking along the riverbed of the Kali Gandaki River to reach Jomsom, then proceed to Marpha, known as the apple capital of Nepal. Stay overnight at Marpha.
We will walk along the riverbed of the Kali Gandaki River, passing the villages of Larjung and Touche, and through Kalopani. We will trek through a windy area covered with pine and rhododendron forests, reaching Ghasa, a famous destination for bird watching. Stay overnight at Ghasa.
We will descend steeply to Rupse Waterfall, one of the deepest gorges in the world between Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. Afterward, we will head to Tatopani, known for its natural hot springs. Stay overnight at Tatopani.
We will ascend to Shikha Village via Ghara Village, enjoying views of Machhapuchre and Annapurna South. We will walk on stone steps through the rhododendron forest, reaching Ghorepani. Stay overnight at Ghorepani.
We will climb to Poon Hill to watch the sunrise over the Himalayas, including the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs. We will then descend through rhododendron and oak forests to Ulleri and continue on stone steps to reach Hille. Stay overnight at Hilla.
We will enjoy the beautiful hill landscape of western Nepal on the way to Nayapul, then drive back to Pokhara. Stay overnight at Pokhara.
Today is for sightseeing around Pokhara Valley, including Devi’s Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, Bindabasini Temple, Seti Gorge, and the Mountain Museum. Enjoy boating in Fewa Lake, with optional activities such as paragliding, Avia flight, and bungee jumping. Stay overnight at a hotel in Pokhara.
After breakfast at 6:00 a.m., we will head towards the tourist bus park and board a tourist bus back to Kathmandu. The bus ride will take around 7 hours through curvy roads of hilly terrain, with a couple of breaks for snacks and lunch. There will be a farewell dinner (Nepali Food) to celebrate the successful completion of our journey. Stay overnight in Kathmandu.
Your wonderful adventure in Nepal comes to an end today. We wish you all the best. A representative will take you to the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight.
Tilicho Lake Trek Cost Includes & Excludes
Cost Includes
- Pick up and drop off from and to International airport.
- 3 nights hotel in Kathmandu.
- 2 nights hotel in Pokhara.
- TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System).
- Annapurna Conservation Park permit.
- Sightseeing car A/C with driver.
- All land transportation by bus/van/car.
- One porter for each two people.
- Accommodation in tea houses/lodges twin sharing.
- 3 meals a day: breakfast, lunch, dinner during the trek (anything from the menu).
- Farewell dinner at a Nepalese cultural restaurant in Kathmandu.
- All taxes and company service charge.
Cost Excludes
- Nepal visa fee (bring accurate USD cash and two passport size photographs).
- International airfare to and from Kathmandu.
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
- Monument site entrance fees while sightseeing in Kathmandu.
- Excess baggage charges.
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu due to early arrival, late departure, or earlier return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
- Travel and rescue insurance.
- Personal expenses (phone calls, internet/Wi-Fi, laundry, bar bills - tea/coffee, hot chocolate, juice, beer, battery recharge, extra porters, bottled or boiled water, shower, etc.).
- Tips for guides and porters (tipping is expected but not compulsory)
Equipment and Gears (Packing lists) for Tilicho Lake Trek
- Clothing: Layered clothing suitable for varying temperatures.
- Footwear: Sturdy trekking boots with good ankle support.
- Gear: Trekking poles, sleeping bag, and a daypack.
- Essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a first-aid kit.
Mandatory Travel Essentials:
- Nepal Visa: To enter Nepal, you’ll need a visa, which you can get on arrival or from a Nepalese embassy. Make sure to choose the right visa type and duration for your adventure, especially if you plan to trek to Tilicho Lake.
- Travel Insurance: It’s essential to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellations. Given the remote terrain and high altitude of the Tilicho Lake Trek, having insurance will give you peace of mind.
- Nepal Trekking Permit: For the Tilicho Lake Trek, you’ll need a trekking permit. This is crucial for accessing the trail and helps in preserving the natural beauty and culture of the region. Make sure to arrange this before setting off on your journey.
FAQs on Tilicho Lake Trek
The hike to Tilicho Lake usually takes two to three days from Manang, the closest significant settlement. Trekkers must cross the mountain’s terrain for 6-7 hours daily at an elevation of 4-5 thousand meters. The approximate distance traveled in a round trip from Manang to Tilicho Lake, and return is thirty kilometers (19 miles).
The Tilicho Lake Trek is moderate. It involves steep ascents, rocky paths, and potential exposure to altitude sickness, as Tilicho Lake is around 4,919 meters (16,138 feet).
Tilicho Lake is famous for being one of the highest lakes in the world. Its gorgeous blue waters, encircled by snow-capped peaks, create spectacular and distinctive scenery. Trekkers also frequent the lake because of its peaceful and isolated setting.
The Tilicho Lake Trek often starts from Syange, a small village on the Annapurna Circuit trekking route. From Syange, trekkers usually follow the Marshyangdi River trail, passing through several villages, such as Chame, Pisang, and Manang, before arriving at Tilicho Base Camp and, ultimately, Tilicho Lake.
Yes, Tilicho Lake is worth the trek for its unparalleled beauty and the sense of adventure it offers. The stunning views, peaceful environment, and unique experience of visiting one of the highest lakes in the world make it a memorable destination.
The best seasons to visit Tilicho Lake are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to December). These periods offer stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, making the trek more enjoyable and safe.
Swimming in Tilicho Lake is not recommended. The lake’s water is extremely cold due to its high altitude and glacial origins. Moreover, the locals consider the lake sacred, so respecting local customs and traditions is essential.
The difficulty level of the Tilicho Lake trek ranges from easy to moderate. Anyone with a moderate physical condition can trek to Tilicho Lake. This trek is doable for beginners as well.
Tilicho Lake is located at 4919 meters. The highest point of Tilicho pass you’ll cross is Thorong La Pass, at 5416 meters.
The shortest version of the Tilicho Lake trek is around five days. It is a challenging itinerary with long daily hikes at high altitudes and requires excellent fitness and acclimatization. However, we don’t recommend that you opt for this as it will risk your health, and there is a high chance of altitude sickness.
Technically, you only spend one or part of a day at Tilicho Lake itself, but reaching this stunning high-altitude lake is an adventure in itself. The journey involves traversing the Tilicho Lake Trek, which is a significant and rewarding undertaking.
There are no roads leading to Tilicho Lake. You’ll need to trek starting from Kathmandu, followed by a multi-day trek along the Annapurna Circuit trail until Manang. From Manang, the route diverges to reach Tilicho Lake via Khangsar village.
There is no direct bus route to Tilicho Lake. You can take a bus from Kathmandu to Besisahar or Jagat, the starting point for most treks. The route is approximately 180-200 kilometers.
Yes, especially if you’re a foreigner, having a guide for the Tilicho Lake Trek is highly recommended. The trek involves challenging terrains, high altitudes, and potentially unpredictable weather, which can be daunting without local expertise. A guide provides safety, navigation, and valuable insights into the local culture. They also assist with logistics, permits, and regulations, making your trek smoother and more enjoyable. For foreigners unfamiliar with the region, a guide can significantly enhance the overall experience and ensure a safe journey.
Tidy Himalaya‘s package includes all accommodation, meals, permits, transport costs, porter fees, and tips. Everything is covered, ensuring a hassle-free trekking experience. With these essentials taken care of, you can focus entirely on enjoying the journey and the breathtaking landscapes of the trek.
Absolutely! Tidy Himalaya offers the flexibility to customize the Tilicho Lake Trek to suit your personal preferences. Whether you’re planning for a specific group size, have particular accommodation preferences, or need to consider weather and physical conditions, Tidy Himalaya has you covered. We can adjust the trek to match your interests and comfort level, ensuring a unique and enjoyable experience. Let us tailor your adventure to make it perfect for you!
Traveler Reviews
These genuine and honest reviews are provided by travelers who have previously journeyed with Aarohi Holiday and its team. The testimonials and firsthand experiences showcased here are sourced from well-known travel platforms such as TripAdvisor, Google, Facebook, and Trust Pilot etc.
