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.