15 Days Trekking To Tilicho Lake

The Tilicho lake Trek is a wonderful and adventurous trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Tilicho Lake is considered one of the highest lakes in the world. This lake holds a religious significance for both Hindu and Buddhists.  This trek offers natural beauty, cultural richness, and physical challenge, making it favourite for the trekkers. Trekkers will observe the mountain peaks such as Annapurna I (8,091 meters), Annapurna II (7,937 meters), and Annapurna III (7,555 meters) while doing this trek. The Tilicho Lake is at an elevation of approximately 4,919 meters. 
Trekking To Tilicho Lake

Trekking To Tilicho Lake Facts

Trek Starts

Kathmandu

Trip Grade

Strenuous

Meals

Full Board on Trek

Accommodation

Teahouse and Lodge

Transportation

Jeep and Bus

Max. Altitude

5416m, Thorong La

Best Season

Spring & Autumn

Group Size

1-10 Pax

Mode of trek

Teahouse

Trekking To Tilicho Lake Highlights

  • Visit Tilicho Lake one of the highest lakes in the world.
  • Witness panoramic view of Himalayan peaks of  Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and Dhaulagiri
  • Trek through diverse landscapes of lush forests, rocky cliffs, and glacial valleys
  • Explore high-altitude village with scenery and ancient traditions
  • Most popular trekking trails in the world

Trekking To Tilicho Lake Overview

The Tilicho Lake Trek is a scenic and adventurous trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal that takes you through the highest lake of the world named as Tilicho Lake. This lake is located at an altitude of 4,919 meters. Tilicho Lake is also famous in terms of religious point of view. This trek is a challenging trek which gives you a lifetime experience and is also the best destinations for nature and adventure lovers.

The trek begins Chame or Besisahar and goes through Annapurna trail. This trek offers you with nautral beauty, high-altitude adventure and cultural experiences. Trekkers will pass through popular villages like manang, Khangsar, and Yarkhara. You can find unique culture of the Gurung, Manangi, and Tibetan-influenced communities. Trekkers can experience breathtaking views of Mount Annapurna, Gangapurna, Nilgiri, and Tilicho Peak.  Trekkers walk through ancient Buddhist monasteries, lush rhododendron forest, dramatic river-flows, and high-altitude trails in Nepal. The trail is less crowded as compared to main Annapurna Circuit. Teahouses and lodges are available along the route which offers a comfortable accommodation and meals. The trek is moderate and challenging to the trekkers. The trek duration is 12 to 16 days which depend upon the itinerary.

The Tilicho Lake Trek is a journey that shows you a raw beauty of the Himalayas with high-altitude adventure and rich cultural encounters. It is a lifetime experience trek that takes you through traditional villages, and high-altitude trek.  This trek is perfect for experienced trekkers and those who are willing to do adventures. The Tilicho Lake is a hidden gem in the Annapurna region of Nepal.

Trekking To Tilicho Lake Outline

Day 01 – Arrival in Kathmandu airport (1345meters). Overnight at hotel.

Day 02 – Jeep drive From Kathmandu to Dharapani (1860 meters) via Besisahar 9hour drive.

Day 03  – Trek From Dharapani to Chame(2670 meters) 6hours walk.

Day 04 – Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang (3300 meters) 5hours walk.

Day 05 – Trek from Upper Pisang to Manang (3400 meters) via Ghayaru 7hours walk.

Day 06 – Rest in Manang for acclimatization A necessary day to rest and acclimatize and explore Manang.

Day 07 – Trek from Manang to Siri Kharka (4060 meters) 5hours walk.

Day 08 – Trek from Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp (4150meters) 5hours  walk.

Day 09 – Trek from Tilicho B. C. to Visit Tilicho Lake (4,920meters) then back to Siri Kharka  (4,060meters) 9hours walk.

Day 10 – Trek from sir khark to Yak Kharka (4000 meters) 6hours walk.

Day 11 – Trek from yak kharka  to Thorong pedi (4450 meters) 5hours walk.

Day 12 – Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath (3800meters) crossing over via Thorong La pass (5416 meters) 8hours walk.

Day 13 – Drive from Muktinath to Pokhara (865 meter) via Jomsom, Tatopani and Beni by local jeep  7hours drive.

Day 14 – Drive back to Kathmandu by tourist bus.

Day 15 – Transfer to international airport for your final flight departure.


Affordable Tilicho Lake Trek Packages (2025–2026)

The cost of Trekking to Tilicho Lake depends upon the group size, duration and services included in the trek. The price for the Trekking to Tilicho Lake typically costs between USD 1,200to USD 1,400 per person for standard 15-days trek from Kathmandu to Tilicho Lake, cross the Thorong La Pass and back. The service typically includes domestic flights, permits, accommodation, meals, an experience guide, and porter services. A large group trek to Tilicho Lake can be a budget-friendly option compared to smaller groups, as the per-person cost can be reduced. It also allows for a shared experience, along with support of a professional group leader and local team.

SERVICE INCLUSION

  • Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up & drop by private car / van / bus.
  • Standard twin sharing accommodation in Kathmandu (2nights) and Pokhara (1nights)breakfast included.
  • Stander meal Lunch , Dinner,and Breakfast and Tea house accommodation during the trek.
  • A government licensed English speaking Guide during the trek, 1 porters between 2pax, their food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment and a general first aid kit.
  • Annapurna conservation area permit, and all necessary permits.
  • Surface Transfer from Kathmandu as per Itinerary.
  • We provide Down Jacket, duffel/kit bag and sleeping bag(which needs to be returned after the trek).
  • All our government taxes.
  • Tourist service charge.


What's not included?

  • Lunch and dinner whilst in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Your travel insurance (compulsory).
  • International airfare and airport departure tax.
  • Nepal entry visa fee
  • Items of a personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, laundry.
  • Personal trekking Equipments.
  • Tips for trekking staff and driver.
  • Sightseeing/Monument entrance fees.
  • Any others expenses which are not mentioned on Price Includes section.

Useful Info

Best Time of Year for Tilicho Lake Trek

The best time for Trekking to Tilicho Lake is during the spring season from March to May and autumn season from September to November. These months offers trekkers with clear skies, stable and mild temperature and excellent mountain views. Trekkers can witness clear and breathtaking mountain views of Annapurna, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak and Dhaulagiri. Along the trails, spring season showcases with blooming wildflowers and lush landscapes whereas in autumn season showcases with dry, clear skies, with excellent visibility, spectacular Post-monsoon Mountain views, cool and comfortable temperature, which is ideal for trekking and photography. Monsoon season (June to August) is avoided due to heavy rainfall, risk of landslides, trail-blockage, and cloud-covered mountains. The winter season (December to February) brings extreme cold and heavy snowfall, making the trail and the Tilicho Lake inaccessible. For the best experience on the Trek to Tilicho Lake, plan your trek in spring or autumn when the weather is favorable, trails are dry, and views are at their finest.

Tilicho Lake Trek Duration in Days, Distance in KM and Elevation in Meters

Tilicho Lake  trek is about 50 to 60 kilometers (81 to 93 miles) round trip from Besisahar to Pokhara. The journey takes 11 walking days, with 5 to 7 hours of trekking each day. Each day while ascending, trekkers walk between 10 to 15 km, depending on the terrain, and elevation gain. Trekkers ascend around 3,500 meters after starting from Dharapani to cross the Thorong La Pass, and then descend gradually through the popular Thakali villages like Jomsom and Tatopani.  The starting point of this trek at Dharapani sits at an elevation of 1,860 meters, while Thorong La Pass lies at 5,416 meters. Thorong La Pass is the highest point on this trek which offers you with panoramic views of Himalayan peaks such as Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Himalayan Range.

Reliable and Safe Tilicho Lake Trekking Experience

At Mountain Hawk, your safety is our top priority. We provide expertly guided trek to Tilicho Lake with a focus on altitude acclimatization, health, care, and emergency preparedness. Trekkers need to follow the guide instruction properly for safe, enjoyable, and rewarding high-altitude experience that takes them to the one of the highest lakes in the world, known as Tilicho Lake. Our experienced, licensed guides are trained in high altitude safety, ensuring you journey is both achievable and rewarding. From planned acclimatization days, quality gear advice, porter support, and responsive rescue coordination, we offer a level of service that gives you peace of mind. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned hiker, you can depend upon Mountain Hawk for a safe, attentive, and unforgettable trek to Tilicho Lake.

Physical Preparation Guide for Tilicho Lake Trek

The Trek to Tilicho Lake doesn’t require technical climbing skills but it does demand a good level of physical fitness.  Many beginners have successfully completed the Tilicho Lake trek with our company, so mountaineering experience is not much required. However, normal level of physical fitness is necessary. Trekkers will be walking 6 to 7 hours a day at high altitudes on average, often on rocky, uneven trails and sharp elevation gains. People who regularly engage in fitness activities such as swimming, cycling, or cardio exercises find it easier to accomplish this trek. Trekkers with experience in long-distance walking or high-altitude trekking will adapt more easily, but even beginners can succeed with the right preparation and a slow, steady pace. Proper acclimatization and mental preparedness are equally important to cross the high-altitude Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters. If you are preparing for the trek to Tilicho Lake, mountaineering experience is not much essential, but a good level of physical fitness is important.

Transportation Options

The trek to Tilicho Lake begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani via Besisahar. You will take a drive to Dharapani, which is the starting point of your trek. Private Jeeps up to Dharapani are also available for more flexible option, with additional costs being charged depending on the per person cost and group size.

Trekking To Tilicho Lake FAQs

The Tilicho Lake Trek is a challenging, adventurous, and also a popular side trip of the Annapurna Circuit Trek that leads to Tilicho Lake at 4,920 meters. This trek offers the diverse landscapes, from subtropical forests, lush rhododendron forests to high alpine passes, including the famous Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters.

The Tilicho Lake Trek is considered strenuous trek, as it involves high altitude and steep climbs, which require proper acclimatization. Crossing Thorong La Pass is challenging as it involves rocky trails and steep slopes. However, technical climbing skills are not required for this trek.

Tilicho Lake, lying at an altitude of 4,920 meters, is one of the highest lakes in the world. Although not the absolute highest, its altitude and spectacular views make it a major highlight of the Annapurna region.


To prepare for the Annapurna Circuit Trek, focus on improving your physical fitness, as it is essential for the trek, and also understand the challenges of high-altitude trekking, such as lower oxygen levels, risk of altitude sickness, cold temperatures, and reduced stamina.

You will need a layered clothing system, warm jackets, trekking pants and shirts, Trekking boots, several pairs of trekking socks, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, moisturizer, personal water bottles, etc. We recommend packing some essential items to ensure safety and comfort during the Tilicho Lake Trek.

Yes, beginners can do the Tilicho Lake Trek. Trekkers should have passion, dedication, and be physically fit to successfully complete the trek. Trekking with an experienced guide is also highly important for beginners.

Guides and porters are optional for the Tilicho Lake Trek. However, the route involves high-altitude challenges, long daily hikes, and steep sections, especially around Thorong La Pass. Therefore, we recommend hiring an experienced guide to ensure your safety, assist with navigation, and provide local insights. A porter can also reduce your physical load, making your trek more comfortable.

Along the trek, you will stay in basic teahouses and lodges that provide simple rooms and meals. At lower altitudes, these places are more comfortable and better managed. However, as you go higher toward the Thorong La Pass, the accommodation becomes more basic.

Yes, Wi-Fi and mobile network coverage are available at most major villages along the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, such as Manang, Chame, Pisang, Dharapani, etc. Most teahouses charge their customers for Wi-Fi access. Trekkers should expect limited connectivity on the Annapurna Circuit Trek route, as the Wi-Fi and mobile network can be unreliable due to weather and local infrastructure.

Temperatures vary by season and altitude. In spring and autumn, daytime temperatures typically range from 4°C and 16°C. At nighttime, temperatures can drop to -10°C, even during peak seasons. Winter treks may experience temperatures as low as -15°C or colder at nighttime.

Yes, teahouses offer charging facilities for a small fee (USD 2-5 per device). We recommend carrying a power bank or solar charger, as electricity may be limited at higher altitudes.

Credit cards are not widely accepted along the Tilicho Lake Trek. Most of the teahouses and small shops on the Tilicho Lake Trek route do not accept credit cards. It’s best to carry enough Nepali Rupees for the entire trek, especially for hot showers, Wi-Fi, hot water, and tips. Credit cards are accepted in major cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara.

You can expect traditional Nepali meals such as dal bhat, along with noodles, soup, eggs, and tea/coffee. In higher altitudes, food choices may be limited, and prices increase due to transportation challenges.

Yes, you can combine Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek and Upper Mustang Trek while doing the Tilicho Lake Trek.

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