Tilicho Lake Trek
Overview
Tilicho Lake holds the record as one of the highest lakes in the world at 4,919 meters. This challenging trek takes you off the main Annapurna Circuit trail to a pristine glacial lake surrounded by towering peaks, including the north face of Tilicho Peak (7,134m) and the massive Annapurna massif. The journey passes through the dramatic Manang Valley, ancient Buddhist villages, and some of the most spectacular high-altitude terrain in Nepal.
Duration
10-14 Days
Distance
140 km
Max Altitude
4,919m
Best Season
Apr-May, Sep-Nov
Highlights
- Stand at one of the world's highest lakes (4,919m)
- Dramatic glacial lake surrounded by peaks
- Ancient Buddhist villages and monasteries
- Spectacular high-altitude terrain
- Often combined with Annapurna Circuit
- Fewer crowds than main circuit
Itinerary
Fly to Pokhara, Drive to Besisahar
Flight to Pokhara then drive to Besisahar.
Drive to Chame
Long drive through scenic valleys to Chame.
Trek to Upper Pisang
Trek through apple orchards and pine forest.
Trek to Manang
Trek to Manang, the main hub for the Tilicho Lake trek.
Acclimatization Day in Manang
Essential acclimatization. Hike to Gangapurna Lake.
Trek to Khangsar
Trek to Khangsar village, the last settlement before base camp.
Trek to Tilicho Base Camp
Trek to base camp. The trail becomes more rugged.
Trek to Tilicho Lake & Return
The big day! Early start for the steep climb to Tilicho Lake.
Trek to Manang
Descend back to Manang for rest.
Trek to Yak Kharka
Continue on the Annapurna Circuit if combining.
Trek to Thorong Phedi
Trek to base of Thorong La Pass.
Cross Thorong La to Muktinath
Cross Thorong La Pass and descend to sacred Muktinath.
Trek to Jomsom
Descend through Kali Gandaki Gorge.
Fly to Pokhara
Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara.
Safety Information
High altitude with significant AMS risk. The trail to the lake can be exposed and windy. Weather changes rapidly.
Nearest Hospital
Kathmandu (flight)
Emergency Contacts
- ACAP Office: +977-61-462161
Packing List
Documents
- Passport
- ACAP Permit
- TIMS Card
- Travel Insurance
Clothing
- Layering system
- Down jacket
- Fleece
- Rain jacket
- Trekking pants
- Warm hat and gloves
Footwear
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Warm socks (3 pairs)
- Camp shoes
Equipment
- Sleeping bag (-10°C)
- Daypack (35L)
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp
- Water bottles (2L)
- Sunglasses
Hygiene & Meds
- Sunscreen SPF 50
- Lip balm
- First aid kit
- Altitude sickness meds
- Toilet paper
Weather by Month
| Month | High | Low | Rainfall | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 8°C | -10°C | Low | Moderate |
| Feb | 10°C | -8°C | Low | Good |
| Mar | 14°C | -4°C | Low | Best |
| Apr | 18°C | 0°C | Moderate | Best |
| May | 20°C | 4°C | Moderate | Good |
| Jun | 22°C | 8°C | Heavy | Avoid |
| Jul | 22°C | 10°C | Heavy | Avoid |
| Aug | 22°C | 10°C | Heavy | Avoid |
| Sep | 20°C | 6°C | Moderate | Best |
| Oct | 16°C | 2°C | Low | Best |
| Nov | 12°C | -2°C | Low | Best |
| Dec | 10°C | -6°C | Low | Good |