Annapurna Tilicho Lake

The Annapurna Tilicho Lake Trek starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar. From Besisahar, you trek to Ngadi, followed by a journey to Jagat. The next destination is Dharapani; from there, you continue to Chame. The trek then takes you from Chame to Pisang and onward to Manang. You spend an extra day in Manang to acclimatize to the altitude.

After Manang, the trek proceeds to Khangsar, and from Khangsar, you head to Tilicho Base Camp. You will explore Tilicho Lake and return to Base Camp. The journey continues from Tilicho Base Camp to Mesokanto La High Camp, where you prepare to cross the Mesokanto La Pass and reach Yak Kharka. From Yak Kharka, the trek takes you to Jomsom. After Jomsom, you fly to Pokhara and spend a rest day there. The trip concludes with a drive back to Kathmandu, followed by a free day for exploring the city and, finally, your departure.

Tilicho Lake: Situated at an elevation of 4,919 meters, Tilicho Lake is mesmerizing due to its pristine turquoise waters and holds spiritual significance for locals and trekkers alike. It offers a serene and unforgettable sight, surrounded by towering peaks and often dotted with floating icebergs.

Annapurna Range: As you trek through the Annapurna region, you will see close-up views of some of the most iconic peaks. The Annapurna Massif includes peaks like Annapurna I, the 10th highest peak in the world, and other majestic summits like Gangapurna and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).

Thorong La Pass: This high-altitude pass is the trek’s highest point at 5,416 meters. Crossing it is challenging but gratifying as you’re greeted with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks stretching in every direction. ​

Rich Culture: The Annapurna region has diverse ethnic groups, such as Gurungs, Thakalis, and Manangis, each with unique traditions and lifestyles. Trekking through their villages, you will glimpse their rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality.

Varied Landscapes: The trek traverses various landscapes, from lush subtropical forests filled with rhododendron trees (Nepal’s national flower) to arid desert-like terrain at higher altitudes. You will pass by new scenery, like waterfalls, deep gorges, and panoramic mountain vistas daily.

Natural beauty and wildlife: The Annapurna region is rich in biodiversity, with diverse flora and fauna. Trekkers may encounter various species of birds, including the colorful Danphe (Himalayan Monal), Himalayan blue sheep, and possibly even snow leopards in the higher regions.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience: While the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is more popular, the Annapurna Tilicho Lake Trek offers a more remote and less crowded experience, allowing trekkers to escape the crowds and enjoy a more serene and authentic Himalayan adventure.

Annapurna Tilicho Trek is designed for trekkers who are in good physical shape and in good health. Sometimes, Tilicho Lake Trek to Jomsom Valley via alternative Mesokanto Pass would be ideal if you wish to take many challenges and trek off the beaten trail. Another option for trekkers with limited experience would be the 16-day Tilicho Base Camp.

Meals During Trek To Annapurna with Tilicho Lake

During the trek, we will provide all meals from a selected menu, while only breakfast is available in Kathmandu. A welcome dinner featuring typical cuisine and a menu-selected farewell dinner will be included. On the trek, the same teahouses or lodges where you spend the night offer breakfast, dinner, and lunch en route to the next destination.

Common menu choices include Nepalese, Tibetan, continental, and Indian cuisines. The food you will eat during the trek provides you with energy. It ensures the strength and stamina to handle the physical demands of the journey. Vegetarian options are widely available, and you can also get specific dietary needs with advance notice.

Accommodations on Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake Trek

Accommodations during the trek include tea houses and lodges, where trekkers can rest and recharge. In Kathmandu, accommodations provide breakfast only. Throughout the trek, you will stay in various tea houses and lodges that offer basic yet comfortable amenities to ensure a pleasant trekking experience.

These accommodations typically provide cozy beds, warm blankets, and communal dining areas where trekkers can socialize and share their experiences. Some tea houses also offer hot showers and Wi-Fi, though these amenities may limited or unavailable at higher altitudes. It’s advisable to bring a sleeping bag and other personal comfort items to enhance your stay.

Best Time to Travel to Annapurna Tilicho Base Camp Trek

The best time to travel to Annapurna Tilicho Base Camp Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons.

The weather is mild and stable in spring, with blooming rhododendron forests and clear skies. This season offers the best view of the surrounding mountains, including the stunning Annapurna range and the sacred Tilicho Lake. Daytime temperatures are comfortable for trekking, although it can still be cold at higher altitudes, especially in the mornings and evenings.

Autumn is another ideal time due to its stable weather conditions and clear views. The temperatures are similar to spring, making trekking during the day pleasant. Autumn also offers the advantage of less crowded trails compared to spring. However, we recommend you avoid the monsoon season (June to August) as heavy rainfall can lead to slippery trails, landslides, and reduced visibility.

Permits Requirement

Permits are necessary for trekking in the Annapurna region, including the Annapurna Tilicho Lake trek. Three main permits are required, each serving a specific purpose and obtainable from designated offices or checkpoints along the trekking route.

TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System): The TIMS card ensures safety and track tourists in the region. There are two types of TIMS cards: Green (for individual trekkers) and Blue (for organized trekkers in groups). As of 2024, the cost for individual trekkers is approximately NPR 1,000 (around USD 10) per person. You can obtain the TIMS card through the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara, or from registered trekking agencies.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): The ACAP is required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area, which covers most of the trekking route.  As of 2024, the cost for foreigners is approximately NPR 3,000 (around USD 30) per person. You can obtain the ACAP permit from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara or from the checkpoint in Besisahar if you’re starting the trek from there.

Restricted Area Permit (if applicable): If your trekking itinerary includes restricted areas like Upper Mustang or Manaslu, you’ll need an additional Restricted Area Permit. This permit is not typically required for the Annapurna Tilicho Lake trek unless you plan to include these restricted areas in your route. The cost and procedures for obtaining a Restricted Area Permit vary depending on the specific area and current regulations.

A good level of physical fitness is essential to embark on the trek to Tilicho Lake. You should be capable of walking 6-7 hours (10-15 km) daily on uphill and downhill trails. Cardiovascular endurance and leg strength are significant due to the long and sometimes steep ascents. Prior hiking experience, especially at high altitudes, is beneficial but not mandatory.

Additionally, while technical climbing skills are not necessary for the Tilicho Lake trek, essential trekking experience in mountainous terrain will help you navigate the trail more comfortably. If you haven’t trekked at high altitudes before, consider starting with shorter hikes to higher elevations to gauge your body’s reaction. With proper preparation and a good fitness level, you can enjoy the adventure of trekking to Tilicho Lake safely and comfortably.

The Annapurna Circuit trek to Tilicho Lake presents several challenges primarily due to its high altitude, unpredictable weather, long hours of walking, and rugged terrain. Here’s a breakdown of the difficulties involved:

High Altitude: Tilicho Lake sits at 4,919 meters (16,138 feet), where altitude sickness can occur with symptoms like headaches and nausea.

Long Days: Expect 5-8 hours of trekking daily over steep, rocky paths, demanding physical endurance.

Rugged Terrain: The trail includes narrow paths, river crossings without bridges, and rocky sections, making it physically challenging.

Altitude Risks: As you climb, air thins, making breathing harder. Proper acclimatization stops are crucial to avoid altitude sickness.

Basic Facilities: Accommodation is basic in tea houses with simple amenities. Clean water and sanitation decrease at higher altitudes.

Trekking with Nepal Base Camp Trek is a great choice because we are a government-certified company. This means we meet all the safety and quality standards set by the authorities. We offer customized itineraries to fit your schedule and preferences. Whether you want a short trek or a longer adventure, we can tailor the trip to meet your needs. Our team is very experienced and knowledgeable. Our trek guides have trekked these routes many times over many years.

They know the trails, villages, and mountain regions extremely well. They will keep you safe and make your trek memorable by sharing fascinating details about the landscapes, cultures, and wildlife you encounter.  When you trek with our company, you can have peace of mind knowing you are in very capable and caring hands. From planning the route to handling permits and logistics, we take care of everything so you can focus entirely on enjoying the breathtaking Himalayan scenery.