Tilicho Lake Trek

Key Information
  • Duration15 Days
  • DestinationNepal
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Max Altitude 5416m
  • Starts/Ends Kathmandu-Kathmandu
  • Best Season In autumn (September to last November) In spring (March to last May)

Trip Overview

Tilicho Lake Trek is one of the most beautiful and exciting treks in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It usually takes 12 to 17 days, depending on your walking speed and the route you choose. The main highlight of this trek is Tilicho Lake, which is one of the highest lakes in the world, sitting at an altitude of 4,919 metres above sea level. The lake is fed by the melting glaciers of Tilicho Peak and holds both religious and natural importance.

The trek commonly begins from Besisahar, around 150 km west of Kathmandu. However, many trekkers prefer to start from Dharapani to avoid the dusty roads and enjoy a more peaceful trail. From Dharapani, the path slowly climbs through traditional villages, green forests, and rocky landscapes—perfect for getting used to the altitude.

On the way, you will pass through charming villages like Chame, Pisang, Ngawal, Manang, and Khangsar. These places give you a wonderful view of the local culture and daily life of ethnic groups such as the Gurung, Magar, Manangi, and Thakali communities. You will also see both Buddhist monasteries and Hindu temples, showing the area’s rich mix of religions and traditions.

The trail to Tilicho Lake is a side route from the main Annapurna Circuit. Many trekkers visit the lake before continuing on to Thorong-La Pass (5,416 m)—one of the highest trekking passes in the world. From Tilicho Base Camp, the hike up to the lake is tough but very rewarding, with stunning views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak.

After visiting Tilicho Lake, most trekkers join back with the Annapurna trail and head to Yak Kharka, then cross Thorong-La Pass. From there, they often walk down to Muktinath, a holy site for both Hindus and Buddhists. After Muktinath, you can:

  • Take a jeep ride (6–7 hours) to Pokhara via Jomsom
  • Trek or drive to Jomsom, stay overnight then Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara in just 25 minutes
  • Extend your trek by walking or driving to Tatopani (famous for its natural hot springs), and then you can drive to Pokhara or continue to Ghorepani/Poon Hill before finishing the trek at Nayapul

The trek usually ends in Pokhara, a serene lakeside city known for its relaxing atmosphere, good food, and fun activities. From Pokhara, you can return to Kathmandu by plane (25 minutes), tourist bus, or private vehicle.This trek is suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers, you will experience the gradual climb, cosy tea houses, cultural charm, and breathtaking Himalayan scenery. The Tilicho Lake Trek is truly a special adventure for anyone who wants to explore the natural and cultural beauty of Nepal.

Trip Highlights

  • Begin your journey in the vibrant cities of Kathmandu and Pokhara, rich in culture, history, and colorful local markets.
  • Immerse yourself in diverse local cultures and religious traditions of the Himalayan region, including Tibetan-influenced villages and ancient monasteries.
  • Trek through dramatic and ever-changing landscapes, from lush green valleys and dense forests to rugged alpine terrain and high mountain deserts.
  • Visit the breathtaking Tilicho Lake (4,919m), one of the highest lakes in the world, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and glacier-fed waters.
  • Cross the Thorong La Pass (5,416m), the highest trekking pass in the world, and take in panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
  • Experience high-altitude trekking and push your limits for a truly rewarding and unforgettable adventure.
  • Savor authentic Nepali cuisine and local delicacies in teahouses along the trail.
  • Create lifelong memories as you journey through one of Nepal's most scenic and challenging trekking routes.

Best Time to Visit Tilicho Lake

Tilicho Lake can be visited during two main seasons: Autumn and Spring. The autumn season, from September to late November, offers clear skies, stable weather, and breathtaking mountain views, making it ideal for trekking. Alternatively, the spring season, from March to May, brings warmer temperatures and blooming rhododendrons, adding vibrant colours to the landscape. Both seasons provide excellent trekking conditions and unforgettable experiences in the Annapurna region.

How Hard is the Tilicho Lake Trek?

The Tilicho Lake trek is not very difficult. If you are in good health and reasonably fit, you can do this trek without any problem. Like any high-altitude trek, you may feel a bit tired or short of breath, but that is completely normal.

We take things slowly and give you plenty of time to acclimatise. Our experienced guides will support you every step of the way and make sure you are safe and comfortable. With us, you can enjoy this beautiful trek without any worries.

Mountains You Will See During the Tilicho Lake Trek

The Tilicho Lake Trek offers breathtaking mountain views from start to finish. In the lower part of the trek, you’ll walk through lush green forests and enjoy beautiful waterfalls. From here, you can already see snow-covered mountains in the distance.

As you climb higher and reach places like Pisang, you’ll get closer views of some massive Himalayan peaks. You’ll see Annapurna II, Pisang Peak, and Gangapurna up close.

During the whole trek, you’ll see three of the world’s highest mountains, each over 8,000 metres:

  • Mount Annapurna I (8,091m)
  • Manaslu (8,163m)
  • Dhaulagiri (8,167m)

You’ll also see many other huge mountains above 7,000 metres, such as:

  • Tilicho Peak (7,134m)
  • Annapurna II (7,937m), III (7,555m), and IV (7,525m)
  • Gangapurna (7,454m)
  • Khangsar Khang (7,485m)
  • Tare Khang (7,069m)
  • Himlung Himal (7,126m)

The trail is also surrounded by well-known trekking peaks like:

  • Pisang Peak (6,091m)
  • Thorong Peak (6,144m)
  • Chulu East (6,429m), Chulu West (6,419m), Chulu Central (6,584m), and Far West (6,060m)

All along the route, you’ll be surrounded by stunning Himalayan mountains. It’s an amazing experience that offers a real taste of the Himalayas. If you want to see these beautiful peaks and feel the adventure of the high mountains, this trek is a must. We’ll make sure your journey is memorable!

Guide and Porter during your trek

Your trip will be led by a well-trained guide with a government licence. He or she will speak good English, so there will be no problem with communication. Every evening during dinner, your guide will explain the next day's plan. They will also share interesting facts about the local culture, religion, traditions, and mountains. We always provide professional guides to make sure your journey is safe, smooth, and enjoyable.

During the trek, our porter will carry your main baggage. We provide you a very experience, strong, honest, and kind porters who are always ready to help. They will make your trek easier and more comfortable. You can trust our team to take good care of you throughout the trip.

How We Organise Your Tilicho Trek

We want to make your trek to Tilicho Lake smooth, safe, and unforgettable. Here's how we organise everything for you:

Arrival in Kathmandu
When you arrive at the airport in Kathmandu, our team will be there to welcome you. We will pick you up and take you to your hotel. Once you settle in, our guide will meet you, introduce you to the rest of the team, and explain the full trekking plan in detail.

From Kathmandu to Dharapani
After your stay in Kathmandu, we will take you to Dharapani by private vehicle. This is where your trek to Tilicho Lake begins.

Accommodation During the Trek
Throughout the trek, we will provide you with accommodation in local guesthouses (also known as tea houses). These are basic but comfortable. We include private rooms with attached toilets wherever available. However, at Thorong Phedi, rooms with attached toilets are not available, so for one night, you’ll stay in a shared toilet facility.

Each room comes with a mattress, bed sheet, blanket, pillow, and either a single, double, or triple bed – depending on the size of your group. We make sure your room is booked in advance.

Meals and Food Options
We will provide you with three meals a day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Tea and coffee are also included. You will find plenty of food options on this trekking route. Some common items include:

  • Dal Bhat (traditional Nepali meal)
  • Potato iteams
  • Momos (dumplings)
  • Chowmein
  • Pizza and pasta iteams
  • Sizzlers, yak steak, burgers, sandwiches, and much more

You can choose your meals from the menu at each guesthouse. Please note that in the mountains, we eat at the same hotel where we stay – this is part of their food and accommodation system.

End of the Trek in Pokhara
Your trek will finish in the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara. There, you’ll stay in a comfortable hotel to relax after your adventure.

Return to Kathmandu
The next day, you can either drive or fly back to Kathmandu. The ground transportation is included in your package. If you prefer to fly, we can arrange a flight for you at an extra cost.

Final Stay and Departure
After returning to Kathmandu, you’ll stay in a 4-star hotel for your last night. Finally, we will drop you off at the airport for your flight home.

Our team is here to support you throughout the entire journey. We will take care of everything so you can enjoy your journey and make lasting memories. Feel free to contact us for more information. 

Itinerary

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These are our regular itinerary so if you want to customize as your time frame feel free to contact us.

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be met by one of our office staff and transferred to your hotel in the lively Thamel area. Once you’ve settled in, our guide will introduce you to the rest of the group and provide a detailed briefing about the trip ahead. In the evening, you’ll be our guest at a traditional Nepali restaurant, where you’ll enjoy authentic Nepali cuisine and a vibrant cultural performance showcasing local music and dance.

Kathmandu altitude: 1350m

Today is your preparation day in Kathmandu. Our top priority is to ensure you’re fully equipped for the trek. If you’re missing any gear, we’ll help you rent or purchase items like a sleeping bag or down jacket from trusted local shops. Once your equipment is sorted, we’ll take you on a short cultural tour around the Kathmandu Valley. Highlights include Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich with history and ancient architecture, and Swayambhunath Stupa (also known as the Monkey Temple), offering panoramic views of the city and deep insights into Nepali Buddhism. This day gives you a chance to immerse yourself in Nepali culture, connect with locals, and get mentally and physically ready for your adventure ahead.

Today your journey begins with an early breakfast at your hotel in Kathmandu. After breakfast, you will set off in a private vehicle and begin your drive towards Dharapani. The road takes you through stunning Himalayan landscapes, winding past charming local villages where you’ll get a glimpse of rural Nepali life along the way.

Your first leg of the journey is to Besisahar, which takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The type of vehicle used—car, jeep, Hiace or bus—will depend on the group size, and all vehicles are private and comfortable.

Upon reaching Besisahar, you’ll switch to a local jeep for 3 hours, as the road from here becomes rough and off-road. The final stretch to Dharapani is adventurous, offering spectacular views and a taste of remote mountain terrain. Expect to reach Dharapani by late afternoon or early evening, where you’ll check into your lodge and rest for the night.

Today, your trek begins after breakfast. The trail initially follows a relatively easy and gradual road section, offering a gentle start to the day. After approximately 1.5 hours, you will reach Danaque. From here, you’ll leave the road and begin a scenic ascent through a beautiful forest of oak, bamboo, alnus, and rhododendron. Along the way, you’ll pass a lovely waterfall before arriving at the picturesque village of Timang.

Timang offers your first glimpse of the majestic Mount Manaslu, towering at 8,163 metres — a truly breathtaking sight.

After a short break in Timang, you’ll continue along the road for around 45 minutes until you arrive at Thanchok village, where you will stop for lunch.

Following lunch, the trail continues along a quieter section of road. You’ll pass through the charming village of Koto before finally reaching Chame after a total of 5 to 6 hours of trekking.

Upon arrival in Chame, check into your lodge and enjoy a warm cup of tea or coffee. You’ll have some time to explore the village before dinner. Chame is the administrative centre (headquarters) of Manang District, where many governmental activities are based. A short 10-minute walk from your lodge will take you to a small natural hot spring — the perfect place to relax and soothe your muscles after a rewarding day on the trail. 

After enjoying breakfast at the lodge in Chame, you will begin your trek by following the Jeep road alongside the Marsyangdi River. The trail starts off gently, with an easy and relatively flat walk through fragrant pine forest for approximately two hours. Along the way, you’ll pass through a large apple orchard at Bratang, where you can take a short break to sample fresh apple juice, homemade apple pie, and crisp, juicy apples.

Continuing onwards, the valley narrows and you’ll cross a short suspension bridge. From here, the trail ascends steeply through the pine forest for around 45 minutes until you reach Dhukur Pokhari. This is a scenic spot where you’ll stop for lunch, with views beginning to open up around you.

After lunch, the trail becomes more gradual and flatter, making for a pleasant walk. As you continue, you’ll see Pisang Peak rising ahead in the distance, guiding you towards your destination. Upon reaching Upper Pisang, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of Annapurna II and IV. Upper Pisang offers the best vantage point and is an ideal place to spend the night.

Once you’ve checked into your lodge, you can relax with a hot drink before visiting the beautiful local monastery. From the monastery, the panoramic mountain views are even more breathtaking. Today you will have gained around 480 metres in elevation from Chame, so you may start to notice the effects of the higher altitude.

From Pisang, you’ll leave the main Jeep road behind and take the higher trail through the traditional villages of Ghyaru and Ngawal. This quieter route offers some of the most spectacular panoramic views in the region, with sweeping vistas over the Marshyangdi River valley and the surrounding snow-capped peaks.

The trail from Pisang to Ngawal is varied — expect a mix of gentle ascents, gradual slopes, and some easier stretches. After a lunch stop in Ngawal, the path gradually descends towards Mungji, eventually reconnecting with the main road leading into Manang. The total altitude gain is around 340 metres, a steady and safe ascent at this elevation.

This section of the trek is not only scenic but also a valuable opportunity for acclimatisation, as you gain height gradually while enjoying the peace of the less-travelled route.

Today, you will spend an extra day in the beautiful village of Manang (3,540m) to allow your body to acclimatise properly before ascending to higher altitudes. Acclimatisation is absolutely vital in the mountains – without it, the risk of altitude sickness increases significantly, which could force you to turn back. Taking the time to acclimatise now ensures a safer and more enjoyable journey ahead.

After a leisurely breakfast, you'll embark on a short acclimatisation hike to Nagarjuna Viewpoint (approx. 3,900m) via the stunning Gangapurna Lake. This gradual ascent of around 400 metres above Manang will help your body adjust to the altitude. The viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna range and surrounding peaks.

Following the hike, you'll return to Manang for lunch and a relaxing afternoon. You may choose to visit the local cultural museum and the village monastery to learn more about the area's history and Buddhist traditions. Manang is also known for its cosy bakery cafes, where you can enjoy freshly brewed coffee and a slice of cake with your trekking companions – the perfect way to unwind and soak up the friendly atmosphere of the village.

Today’s trail begins gently, following a fairly level and wide Jeep track for approximately 1.5 hours until you reach Khangsar village (3,734m), the final inhabited settlement in this remote region. After leaving Khangsar, the Jeep road comes to an end, and the trail starts to climb more steeply towards Shree Kharka (4,050m), where you’ll stop for lunch.

Shree Kharka is also where you'll return to spend the night on the way back. From here, the path becomes more varied, with a mix of gentle ascents and descents, as you make your way towards Tilicho Base Camp. Along this section, you’ll traverse a landslide-prone area, which requires extra caution, but the dramatic mountain scenery and sweeping views of the valley make it well worth the effort.

Due to the high altitude, walking will feel more demanding, but your guide will set a steady and manageable pace tailored to your comfort and condition. Today you’ll gain approximately 660 metres in elevation compared to Manang, so it's important to take your time and stay well-hydrated.

 

Today marks one of the most memorable highlights of your trek – a visit to the breathtaking Tilicho Lake. You will begin the day very early, with a light breakfast, setting off at around 4:00 am with a head torch. The early start helps to avoid strong winds at the lake and offers the best chance for clear mountain views.

The trail begins with a gradual ascent from base camp and continues steadily upwards for approximately 3 hours. You will gain around 720 metres in elevation by the time you reach Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world. Upon arrival, take time to soak in the awe-inspiring scenery – a pristine turquoise lake surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks.

After enjoying the views and capturing some unforgettable moments, you will retrace your steps back down to Tilicho Base Camp. Lunch will be served upon your return, and after a short rest, you will continue the descent towards Shree Kharka.

Today’s trek is relatively short and gentle, providing a much-needed opportunity to acclimatise and prepare for the more demanding crossing of Thorong-La Pass in the coming days. You’ll begin the day with a gradual ascent from Shree Kharka, following a well-defined trail that offers spectacular views over the Manang Valley and surrounding snow-capped peaks.

After around two hours of trekking through open landscapes and traditional yak grazing pastures, the trail descends to a small river. Crossing this, you’ll begin a steady climb on the opposite side, eventually leading you to the small settlement of Yak Kharka which is in the main Annapurna Circuit Trail. 

The trek typically takes around 3 to 4 hours in total, allowing you to arrive in Yak Kharka by lunchtime. The rest of the afternoon is free to rest, enjoy the mountain scenery, and further acclimatise at this higher altitude. 

Today’s walk is relatively short and not too demanding, but due to the high altitude, it’s important to walk at a steady, unhurried pace. You may notice some shortness of breath or fatigue as the air gets thinner, so take your time and stay well hydrated.

The trail is mostly gradual, with a few gentle ups and downs along the way. There are no steep or overly challenging sections, though the altitude can make even easy paths feel more tiring than usual. You'll pass through rugged but scenic terrain, crossing a couple of suspension bridges over dramatic mountain streams.

After a few hours of trekking, you will arrive at Thorong Phedi by around lunchtime. This small settlement, nestled beneath the Thorong La Pass, serves as the base for tomorrow’s challenging ascent. Following lunch, you'll have free time to rest or, if you're feeling up to it, take a short acclimatisation hike up to High Camp. This optional walk is a good opportunity to help your body adjust to the altitude, though it should be done slowly and without overexertion.

While some trekkers choose to stay overnight at High Camp, we recommend sleeping at Thorong Phedi to reduce the risk of altitude-related illness. The difference in elevation is only about an hour’s walk, and staying lower can greatly improve your chances of a safe and successful crossing of the pass tomorrow.

 

Today is the most challenging yet rewarding day of your trek—crossing the iconic Thorong La Pass at 5416 metres.

You will begin your ascent in the early hours of the morning, around 3:00 AM, equipped with headlamps and layered for the cold alpine start. The early departure is essential not only to witness the first light over the Himalayas but also to avoid the strong winds that often pick up on the pass later in the day.

The climb is demanding, with an elevation gain of nearly 900 metres in 4 to 5 hours. The trail winds upward across rocky, snow-dusted terrain, and the thin air at high altitude makes each step feel heavier. We’ll encourage you to maintain a slow, consistent pace, take frequent short breaks, and stay hydrated throughout.

Reaching the pass is a deeply fulfilling moment—pause to take in the panoramic views of snow-capped mountains stretching in all directions. This is a place to celebrate your strength and determination. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the iconic Thorong La sign before starting your descent.

The descent to Muktinath drops around 1600 metres and takes approximately 3 to 4 hours. Though the downhill path is easier on the lungs, it can be tough on the knees, so take your time and use trekking poles for balance and support. As the altitude decreases, the landscape shifts dramatically from alpine wilderness to the arid, dramatic terrain of Mustang.

By afternoon, you’ll arrive in the sacred village of Muktinath, a spiritual hub for both Hindus and Buddhists. Here, you can enjoy a well-earned rest in comfortable accommodation, with delicious local meals and warm hospitality waiting for you.

According to our programme, you will be travelling by Jeep from the sacred town of Muktinath to the vibrant lakeside city of Pokhara. After enjoying a hearty breakfast at the hotel, you will set off on your journey through the scenic landscapes of the Mustang region.

The drive typically takes around 6 to 7 hours, though this can vary slightly depending on road conditions and traffic. The road has seen significant improvements in recent years—most sections are now well-paved, with only a few stretches still undergoing maintenance or construction. We hope these minor patches will not affect your overall travel experience.

Along the way, your driver will stop at a suitable location for lunch, where you can enjoy a meal in a pleasant and peaceful setting. As you descend from the mountains, you’ll pass through charming villages, terraced hillsides, and riverside roads, offering a glimpse into rural Nepali life.

Upon your arrival in Pokhara, you’ll have some time to relax or explore the lively lakeside area at your leisure. In the evening, you may choose to dine at one of the many inviting restaurants along the lakeshore, offering both local and international cuisine. You will spend the night at a comfortable hotel in Pokhara, carefully selected for your convenience and relaxation.

Return Journey from Pokhara to Kathmandu

For your return journey from Pokhara to Kathmandu, you have two options: you may either take a short domestic flight or travel overland by tourist bus. The flight takes approximately 30 minutes and offers spectacular aerial views of the Himalayas and surrounding valleys. Alternatively, the road journey by tourist bus takes around 7 hours and provides a more immersive experience of Nepal’s diverse landscapes.

As per our programme package, we will arrange a comfortable tourist bus ride back to Kathmandu. You should be ready by 7:00 AM, as the bus is scheduled to depart at 7:30 AM. Along the way, you will stop at local roadside restaurants where we will provide breakfast and lunch. These breaks offer a chance to relax and enjoy authentic Nepali cuisine.

Although the drive is long, the scenic route will keep you engaged. You’ll travel alongside the picturesque Trishuli River, passing through charming local villages, terraced hillsides, and lush valleys—offering you a true glimpse of rural Nepal.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will check in at a comfortable hotel where you can unwind and enjoy your evening at leisure.

 

We will gladly arrange your airport drop-off in accordance with your flight schedule. Kindly inform us of your departure time in advance, and we will ensure a smooth and timely transfer to the airport via private vehicle.

Cost Details

Includes
  • Airport pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle.
  • 3 night hotel accommodation in Kathmandu in a 4-star category hotel on a BB plan, sharing basis (twin bed room). Unless private is required.
  • All the ground transportation by private vehicle.
  • Guide & porter with their salary and insurance. 
  • Three meals a day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek.
  • Drinks such as tea, coffee, and treated drinking water.
  • Accommodation during the trek in a local guest house.
  • All the necessary trekking permits.
  • First aid/medical kit.
Excludes
  • Nepal entry fees or visa fees.
  • International flight.
  • Personal trekking equipment or trekking gear.
  • Food & Drinks during the stay in Kathmandu or in case of early return from trekking.
  • Extra night Accommodation in Kathmandu or in case of early return from trekking.
  • Travel Insurance covering (Travel & high altitude insurance for any accident, emergency helicopter evacuation or hospital medication).
  • Hard drinks, Soft drinks, bottle of hot water and mineral water & other beverages.
  • Tipping.
  • Any other service or activities which are not mention. 
Essential Information

What to pack for Tilicho Lake Trek? 

Head & Hand

  • Sun Cap
  • Wool/Fleece warm Hat
  • Balaclava
  • Neck Gaiter/High Neck
  • Lightweight Synthetic Liner Glove
  • Wind Stopper Fleece Gloves

Clothes

  • Underwear
  • Short-Sleeved Shirts/T-shirts
  • Lightweight Top/Thermo Coat
  • Midweight Top
  • Fleece Jacket
  • Down Insulated Jacket
  • Lightweight Long Underpants
  • Midweight Long Underpants
  • Trekking Pants
  • Synthetic Insulated Pants
  • Trekking Socks
  • Lightweight wind jacket
  • Rain coat/Rain jacket
  • Towel

Miscellaneous

  • Trekking Poles
  • Swiss Knife
  • Sandals/Slipper
  • Lightweight Hiking/Trekking Boots
  • Rucksacks/Day bag (45 - 55 Ltr.)
  • Sleeping Bag
  • 1 Duffel Bag
  • Water Bottles
  • Rain Coat
  • Headlight with spare batteries
  • Waterproof Stuff Sacks
  • Satellite Phone (if possible)
  • Solar chargeable power bank (optional)
  • Journal/Pen
  • Book/Board Game
  • Bars & Snacks
  • Travel Documents

Toiletries

  • Hand Sanitizers & Hand wash
  • Wet Tissues
  • Toothpaste
  • Toothbrush
  • Bath Soap
  • Shampoo
  • Moisturizers
  • Laundry Soap
  • Garbage Bag

First Aid Kit

  • Sunscreen (-50 Spf)
  • Lips Guard (-20/-50 Spf)
  • Water Purification Tablets
  • Baby Wipes or Wet Towels
  • Handy Plaster
  • Crack Bandage
  • Tincture
  • Lodine
  • Strepsils
  • Antibiotic
  • Paracetamol
  • Aspirin
  • Sinex
  • Anti-Diarrhea Capsule/Eldoper
  • Brufen/Ibuprofens
  • Diamox
  • Eye Drops
  • Zip-Lock Bags
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