Description
Overview :
Tilicho Lake, located at 4919m in the Manang district, is one of the world's highest lakes and a holy site for Hindu people. It is an isolated area in the Annapurna region, making it an ideal destination for adventurous trekkers. The Tilicho Lake trek involves crossing the challenging Thorong La pass, offering an opportunity to explore hidden natural and cultural aspects of the region. Trekkers can enjoy stunning views of the region's beautiful mountains, valleys, green hills, dense forests, artistic waterfalls, tranquil lakes, pristine rivers, gorges, sacred temples, colorful monasteries, and Gompas. The trek also offers a chance to explore beautiful landscapes, valleys, green hills, dense forests, artistic waterfalls, tranquil lakes, pristine rivers, gorges, sacred temples, colorful monasteries, and Gompas.
Starting from the vibrant city of Pokhara, the trek typically lasts around 10-14 days, depending on the chosen route and individual pacing. The Tilicho Lake Trek can be combined with the Annapurna Circuit Trek to explore the beautiful Mustang region. The trek follows the Annapurna circuit trail up to Manang and reaches Tilicho Lake through Khangsar village. Trekkers can explore rhododendron, pine, fir, and oak forests. The trek returns via Yak Kharka and Jomsom, providing a long journey in the Annapurna region. The trek offers a unique experience for trekkers.
The Tilicho Lake Trek starts in Besisahar and continues through lush forests, picturesque villages, and terraced farmlands. It passes through Manang, a charming village with stunning views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The trail diverges from the main Annapurna Circuit route, leading to Tilicho Base Camp and Tilicho Lake. The return journey may follow the same path or an alternative route. The trek is moderately to highly challenging due to high altitudes and rugged terrain, requiring physical fitness and preparedness for ascents and descents. Acclimatization days are often included to help trekkers adjust to changing altitudes.
Best time to Trek :
The Tilicho Lake Trek is best during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons due to stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures. Trekkers can enjoy the natural beauty of the trail, which is also adorned with the vibrant blossoms of rhododendron and other wildflowers.
Major Highlights :
- Tilicho Lake : Tilicho Lake, the highest lake in the world, is the focal point of the trek, surrounded by towering peaks and stunning glacial landscapes. Its serene beauty, paired with snow-capped mountains, is a memorable experience.
- Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges : The Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges offer breathtaking views, often bathed in golden hues, during the trek, providing a surreal and mesmerizing experience for trekkers.
- Manang Valley : The Manang Valley offers trekkers a chance to explore the rich cultural heritage of local communities, witnessing their traditional lifestyle, unique architecture, and warm hospitality, providing a glimpse into the vibrant traditions of the Himalayan region.
- Diverse landscape : The trek offers a diverse range of landscapes, including lush forests, cascading waterfalls, rugged cliffs, and alpine meadows, providing a thrilling and dynamic trekking experience amidst the natural wonders of the Himalayas.
- High altitude experience : High-altitude trekking challenges adventurers to test their physical and mental resilience, allowing them to conquer challenging terrains and reach elevations with panoramic views of surrounding Himalayan peaks.
- Unique flora and fauna : The Annapurna Conservation Area offers a unique trek that showcases the diverse flora and fauna of the region, including rhododendron blooms and alpine flowers, as well as the elusive snow leopard and the colorful Himalayan Monal, providing a unique experience for trekkers.
- Cultural Encounters : The trek provides cultural immersion by allowing trekkers to learn about traditional customs, lifestyles, and beliefs of ethnic groups like Gurungs, Thakalis, and Manangis through interactions with local communities.
Detailed Itinerary
Explore our comprehensive day-by-day itinerary to discover the
highlights and activities planned for each day of your trek.
Day 1 Drive to Tal via Besisahar
The Tilicho Trek begins in Tal and travels through beautiful scenery from Pokhara to Besisahar. From there, it's an exciting jeep trip past Syange, Bahundada, Ghermu, and Chamje to Tal, where you may spend the night and recuperate.
Day 2 Tal to Thanchok
A lovely hike that passes through Kodo village and passes by a variety of agricultural fields. Then you will enter Dharapani by descending the route and crossing a bridge. The snow-capped mountains in the background provide a picturesque backdrop as one traverses the pine, fir, oak, and maple forest. At Thanchok, go on your devotion towards the Annapurna ranges.
Day 3 Thanchok to Pisang
We shall gradually make our way from Thanchok along the route that passes through Koto village and Chame. After that, we hike a difficult track that passes through a green forest and offers a view of Mt. Lamjung. Before you reach Dhikur Pokhari, you will pass by one of the largest apple plantations and see the enormous Paungda Danda Rock. After that, you'll go upward to Dhiukur Pokhari and on to Pisang.
Day 4 Trek to Manang
We will have an enjoyable walk along the route that passes through the villages of Munchi, Braka, and Ngawal today. You can savor the sight of Tilicho Peak, Gangapurna, Pisang Peak, and Mount Annapurna. We will go around Tibetan communities and take in the diverse sceneries. Finally, make your way upwards from the Braka monastery to the Manang settlement.
Day 5 Acclimatization day
A day of acclimatization is required before starting a hike. Altitude sickness can be avoided and environmental adjustment is aided. We will hike through a glacier lake on a short trek to the Gangapurna viewpoint. As well as have the beautiful sight of the snow-capped mountain ranges, Pisang Peak, Tilicho Peak, and the charming Manang valley from the summit. YOu can discover local monasteries and villages, talk to the people, and get knowledge of the region's traditions. You can visit the Manang region's biggest Braka Monastery. We can visit the Rescue Association as well for a quick overview on preventing altitude sickness. Enjoy your visit and spend a night there.
Day 6 Manang to Khangsar
The trek from Manang to Khangsar offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Gangapurna peaks, along with diverse landscapes of valleys and forests. You can immerse yourselves in the local culture, visiting Buddhist monasteries and experiencing the warm hospitality of the villagers. The journey also provides opportunities to encounter unique flora and fauna, making for a serene and enriching trekking experience.
Day 7 Khangsar to Tilicho Base Camp
Today we will start the day with a delicious breakfast in Khangsar before embarking on a trek to Yak Kharka. Then, we will explore the rugged terrain, scenic trails, and charming villages, while enjoying the hospitality of local communities. At Yak Kharka, at an altitude of 4040 meters, you will stay in a teahouse or lodge for the night.
Day 8 Excursion Tilicho Lake , back to Tilicho Base Camp and then trek to Khangsar
The journey begins with an early morning excursion to Tilicho Lake, an elevation of 4919 meters. The hike offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks and pristine wilderness. After a relaxing time at Tilicho Lake, we will continue the trek towards Khangsar. The journey continues with the warm hospitality of local communities. Upon arrival at Khangsar, we will settle into a teahouse or lodge for the night.
Day 9 Khangsar to Yak Kharka
Today we wil start the day with a breakfast in Khangsar before embarking on a trek to Yak Kharka. The trail winds through the Annapurna region, passing through rocky paths and alpine meadows. You will get to interact with local communities and learn about their traditional lifestyle. You can see unique flora and fauna in the high-altitude environment. At Yak Kharka, an elevation of 4040 meters, you'll stay in a teahouse or lodge for a rest and overnight stay.
Day 10 Yak Kharka to Thorong High Camp
The day begins with an early breakfast at Yak Kharka, followed by a challenging trek to Thorong High Camp. The climb involves navigating through rocky trails and acclimatizing to the altitude. The route offers panoramic views of the Annapurna and Gangapurna ranges. After reaching Thorong High Camp at 4900 meters, the group rests in a teahouse or lodge for an overnight stay. The next day, they embark on a thrilling journey across Thorong La Pass.
Day 11 Trek to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass
The day begins with a challenging trek across Thorong La Pass, a high mountain pass at 5416 meters. The climb offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. We will descend towards Muktinath, a significant pilgrimage site at 3800 meters, which is then followed by a visit to the revered Muktinath Temple. After a rest and overnight stay, we will conclude the day with a satisfying dinner reflecting on the day's accomplishments and the spiritual significance of the destination.
Day 12 Trek to Jomsom
You will start your day with a delicious breakfast in Muktinath before embarking on a trek to Jomsom. You will follow a well-marked trail through picturesque landscapes and traditional villages, immersing yourself in local culture. You can enjoy the scenic beauty of the Kali Gandaki River Valley. At 2700 meters, you can explore Jomsom's streets, markets, and cultural attractions. You will stay in a teahouse or lodge for a relaxing overnight stay, and enjoy a delicious dinner to reflect on your unforgettable trek experiences.
Day 13 Flight to Pokhara from Jomsom
We'll stroll to Jomsom Airport after breakfast. It's a beautiful 25-minute trip to Pokhara. After that, you may take a short nap at a hotel, explore the surrounding Pokhara neighborhoods or local markets, take in the nightlife, and spend the night at a hotel. If flights from Jomsom are canceled, an 8-hour drive to Pokhara is an alternative.
