Tilicho Lake Trek
Destination
Nepal
Grade
Challenging
Start / End Point
Pokhara / Besisahar
Accommodation
Lodge / Tea House
Best Season
Mar–May, Sep–Nov
Meals Included
B / L / D
Activity
trek
Max. Altitude
4,919m
Trek deep into the Annapurna Circuit to reach Tilicho Lake at 4,919m, one of the highest lakes in the world.
Highlights
- Tilicho Lake (4,919m), one of the world's highest
- Classic Marsyangdi valley trail
- High-altitude detour into a glacial bowl
- Optional combine with Thorong La pass
Tilicho Lake Trek Overview
Tilicho Lake sits at 4,919m in a glacial cirque beneath the Tilicho Peak massif, and reaching it is a serious undertaking. The approach follows the Annapurna Circuit route up the Marsyangdi valley from Besishahar through Chame and Pisang to Manang, a beautiful walk through pine forest, apple orchards, and high-desert plateau country, before branching off to the dedicated lake trail. The lake itself is about 5km long at altitude, framed by the vertical ridgelines of the Great Barrier.
The color of the water on a clear day is a specific shade of deep blue-gray that we have not seen replicated anywhere else in Nepal. The route requires careful acclimatisation, with Manang at 3,540m being the mandatory overnight before any attempt on the lake approach. A full rest day in Manang for side hikes to Gangapurna Lake and an altitude briefing is always added. The lake camp at approximately 4,150m is the jumping-off point for the final climb to 4,919m, a section that involves steep, loose scree and a glacier margin traverse.
Conditions on this final section change with the season. In spring, residual snow improves footing but increases avalanche risk, while in autumn it is drier but more treacherous. This is a serious objective, not just a lake detour attached to the Annapurna Circuit. We plan the itinerary with the lake as the primary goal, treating the Annapurna valley scenery as the approach. After Tilicho, options include returning to the circuit and continuing over Thorong La or descending back through Manang to exit via Besishahar.
Who this trek is for: We typically take 12-14 days to complete this trek, and it is suited for fit trekkers who have ideally completed one high-altitude trek before wishing to pursue a serious objective above 4,900m. The traverse above the Great Barrier to Tilicho Base Camp is the most technically demanding section, narrow, exposed, and loose, and requires confident footing and a good head for heights. Anyone with a fear of exposed traverses should be aware of this before committing.
Note
We recommend you arrive at Kathmandu by 3 PM at least one day before the trek departure date for last-minute preparations.
Tilicho Lake
One of the world's highest lakes, sitting in a vast glacial bowl beneath the north face of Tilicho Peak. The final approach from Tilicho Base Camp climbs a loose moraine ridge with sweeping views of the Annapurna and Nilgiri ranges before the ice-blue lake reveals itself below.
Day-to-Day Short Itinerary
- Day 1Pokhara to Beshisahar to Chame (2,650m)
- Day 2Chame to Upper Pisang (3,300m)
- Day 3Upper Pisang to Ngawal (3,650m)
- Day 4Ngawal to Manang (3,540m)
- Day 5Manang to Ice Lake to Manang (4,600m)
- Day 6Manang to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m)
- Day 7Tilicho Base Camp to Tilicho Lake (4,919m) and back
- Day 8Tilicho Base Camp to Yak Kharka (4,080m)
- Day 9Yak Kharka to Thorong High Camp (4,800m)
- Day 10Pass day. High Camp to Muktinath (3,800m)
- Day 11Muktinath to Dumba Lake to Marpha (2,650m)
- Day 12Marpha to Pokhara
Elevation Profile
Tilicho Lake Trek Photos
Tilicho Lake Trek Itinerary
- Day 1
Pokhara to Beshisahar to Chame (2,650m)
Long jeep day along the Marsyangdi valley via Beshisahar to Chame, the district headquarters of Manang. Camp at Chame.
- Day 2
Chame to Upper Pisang (3,300m)
5 to 6 hours through pine forest with the dramatic Paungda Danda rock face mid-day. Camp at Upper Pisang.
- Day 3
Upper Pisang to Ngawal (3,650m)
5 to 6 hours on the upper acclimatisation route via Ghyaru with high-traverse views of Annapurna II, III and IV across the valley. Camp at Ngawal.
- Day 4
Ngawal to Manang (3,540m)
4 to 5 hours of mostly downhill walking back into the main valley. Camp at Manang.
- Day 5
Manang to Ice Lake to Manang (4,600m)
Big acclimatisation day. Round-trip climb above Manang to the high glacial Ice Lake (Kicho Tal) at 4,600m, then back down to sleep at Manang.
- Day 6
Manang to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m)
Trek via Khangsar and the exposed scree traverse above the Great Barrier to Tilicho Base Camp. Steady footing needed on the narrow loose section. Camp at Tilicho Base Camp.
- Day 7
Tilicho Base Camp to Tilicho Lake (4,919m) and back
Pre-dawn start. Up-and-down day climbing on loose scree (and possibly snow) to Tilicho Lake at 4,919m, one of the highest large lakes in the world. Camp back at Tilicho Base Camp.
- Day 8
Tilicho Base Camp to Yak Kharka (4,080m)
Cross back via the Great Barrier traverse, then onto the eastern bank to Yak Kharka, joining the main Annapurna Circuit. Camp at Yak Kharka.
- Day 9
Yak Kharka to Thorong High Camp (4,800m)
Climb via Thorong Phedi with the steep final pitch to High Camp, setting up the next morning's pass crossing. Camp at High Camp.
- Day 10
Pass day. High Camp to Muktinath (3,800m)
Pre-dawn start, 3 to 4 hours of climbing in thin air to Thorong La Pass at 5,416m, then a long 1,600m descent to the sacred temple complex at Muktinath. Camp at Muktinath.
- Day 11
Muktinath to Dumba Lake to Marpha (2,650m)
Visit the turquoise Dumba Lake near Jomsom, then continue down the Kali Gandaki to the apple-orchard village of Marpha. Camp at Marpha.
- Day 12
Marpha to Pokhara
Long jeep day back through Tatopani and Beni to Pokhara.
What is included in this trek package?
Accommodation
- Twin-sharing accommodation in tea houses or local lodges throughout the trek
- Hotel accommodation on nights before and after the trek where applicable (breakfast included)
Meals & Drinking Water
- All standard meals on the trail (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) with one hot drink per meal
- Purified drinking water throughout the trek (filter or purification tablets)
- Seasonal fruits when available
Transportation
- All ground transfers by private or shared tourist vehicle as per the itinerary
- Domestic flights where explicitly noted in the itinerary
Guide and Staff
- Experienced, first-aid trained, government-licensed, English-speaking lead guide
- Assistant guide for groups of 7 or more
- One porter per two trekkers for carrying main luggage (up to 10 kg per person)
- Wages, accommodation, meals, gear, and insurance for all trek staff
Permits
- All required trekking permits and conservation-area fees for the route
- TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card where applicable
- All permit paperwork arranged before the trek starts
Safety and Support
- Comprehensive first aid kit including pulse oximeter for daily altitude checks
- Emergency oxygen on treks above 4,000m
- 24/7 operational support from our Pokhara office
- Trip completion certificate
What is excluded in this trek package?
Flights & Visa
- International flights and airport departure tax
- Nepal entry visa (USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, USD 125 for 90 days, on arrival at Kathmandu airport)
Insurance & Personal Gear
- Travel insurance with high-altitude and emergency helicopter evacuation coverage (mandatory)
- Personal trekking gear, clothing and footwear
Meals Outside the Trail
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu or Pokhara before and after the trek
- Any beverages including alcoholic drinks, bottled and boiled water
Other
- Tips for trekking staff and drivers (recommended but not included)
- Hot showers, WiFi, and charging fees at tea houses
- Any personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, or souvenirs
- Any additional costs caused by natural disasters, political disturbances, or flight delays
- Any items not explicitly listed in the Price Includes section
Equipment Checklist
The following is a solid starting point for most multi-day treks we run. Adjust for the season and the maximum altitude of your specific route. Shorter, lower-altitude hikes need far less than this full list. For the key insulation items (down jacket and four-season sleeping bag) we offer rental in Kathmandu or Pokhara for USD 35 each.
General
- Four-season (zero degree) sleeping bag (rental available: USD 35)
- Insulated down jacket (rental available: USD 35)
- Daypack, 30 to 45 litres, with rain cover
- Sleeping bag liner
Head & Face
- Sun hat or cap
- Beanie or knitted hat for colder mornings and evenings
- Buff or neck gaiter
- Sunglasses with full UV protection
- Headlamp with spare batteries
Upper Body
- Technical base layer shirts, two
- Technical long-sleeve shirts, two
- Fleece or synthetic mid-layer
- Waterproof and windproof shell jacket
Lower Body
- Hiking pants, two pairs
- Technical base-layer leggings for cold mornings
- Waterproof or windproof outer shell pants
- Comfortable pants for evenings in the teahouse
Hands
- Lightweight liner gloves
- Insulated outer gloves for high altitude or winter conditions
Feet
- Waterproof trekking boots with ankle support, broken in before the trip
- Hiking socks, three to five pairs
- Liner socks if prone to blisters
- Comfortable shoes or sandals for evenings
- Microspikes recommended November to March on routes above 4,000m
First Aid & Medications
- Personal prescription medications
- SPF 50+ sunscreen and SPF lip balm
- Blister care, plasters, and antiseptic cream
- Electrolyte sachets or tablets
- Note: our guides carry a comprehensive group first aid kit with pulse oximeter
Other Essentials
- Passport, two passport-sized photos, and photocopies of travel documents
- One-litre reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
- Trekking poles (strongly recommended)
- Small toiletry kit, quick-dry towel, and toilet paper
- High-protein snacks for the trail (bars, nuts)
- Waterproof dry bag for documents and electronics
Important Information
- We provide a free duffel bag at your pre-trip meeting, used for luggage carried by the porter. The duffel stays yours afterwards.
- One porter is assigned per two trekkers. The duffel bag should weigh no more than 10 kg / 22 lbs per person.
- Always carry your own daypack with essentials: cash, documents, water, camera, rain gear.
- Non-trekking luggage can be stored securely at your hotel in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
- Down jacket and four-season sleeping bag are available for rent at USD 35 each. Loss or damage reimbursement is USD 100 per item.
Tilicho Lake Trek Package Information
Trip Information
Guide & Porter Services
Every trek is led by a government-licensed, English-speaking lead guide who is also trained in first aid and high-altitude emergency response. For groups of seven or more we add an assistant guide. Porters are assigned one per two trekkers, each carrying up to 10 kg of your main luggage so you only carry a daypack. All staff wages, accommodation, meals, gear, and insurance are fully covered in the package price.
Accommodation Bookings
We pre-book every night's accommodation before you start, so you never arrive at a full teahouse during peak season. Nights before and after the trek are in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu or Pokhara with breakfast included. On the trail you stay in tea houses or local lodges on a twin-sharing basis, with the best available rooms in each village. Private rooms and en-suite bathrooms are available where offered, usually at lower altitudes.
Transportation Arrangements
All ground transfers are arranged by private or shared tourist vehicles as specified in the itinerary. Airport pick-up and drop-off are included. Where a domestic flight is required (for example, Kathmandu to Lukla for Everest, or Jomsom to Pokhara for Mustang routes), the round-trip fare is covered in the package. We monitor flight and road conditions daily and adjust logistics proactively when weather or landslides affect the schedule.
Equipment Rental
A four-season sleeping bag and an insulated down jacket can be rented in Kathmandu or Pokhara at USD 35 per item for the duration of the trek. Trekking poles, microspikes, and additional layers are also available on request. We supply a 75-litre duffel bag for you to keep at your pre-trip briefing. A full packing checklist is sent after you book so you can pack with confidence.
Insurance Requirements
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for every trek we operate. Your policy must explicitly cover trekking at the maximum altitude of your route and include emergency helicopter evacuation, medical treatment, and trip cancellation. Please send us a copy of your policy at least two weeks before departure. We cannot start the trek without confirmation of valid coverage — this is for your safety and ours.
Difficulty & Preparation
The Tilicho Lake trek is challenging, primarily due to two sections: the exposed traverse above the Great Barrier between Khangsar and Tilicho Base Camp, and the final climb to the lake at 4,919m on loose scree and potential snow. Neither section involves ropes or technical climbing, but both require confident footing on steep, exposed terrain at altitude. Daily walking hours range from 4 hours on acclimatisation and short approach days to 8-9 hours on the lake attempt day (round trip from base camp). The altitude accumulation is substantial, with multiple nights spent above 3,500m. The Great Barrier traverse is carefully briefed, demanding attention and can be dangerous if wet or icy. Good trekking boots and poles are essential.
Permits Required
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is required for the entire Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake route, costing USD 30 per person. It can be obtained in Pokhara or Kathmandu at the Nepal Tourism Board. The TIMS Card (Trekkers' Information Management System) is also necessary at a cost of USD 15 per person. Our team handles all permit paperwork.
Altitude & Acclimatisation
Tilicho Lake at 4,919m is among the highest lake objectives in Nepal, and the altitude profile of this route is demanding. The sequence of sleeping altitudes is: Chame 2,710m, Upper Pisang 3,310m, Manang 3,540m (two nights), Khangsar 3,734m, and Tilicho Base Camp 4,150m. The critical step is the jump from two acclimatisation nights at 3,540m to sleeping at 4,150m. Our acclimatisation day in Manang involves hiking high and sleeping low to prepare for the ascent.
Food & Accommodation
The Annapurna Circuit section has well-established teahouses with diverse menus. Manang provides good facilities including bakeries and gear shops. Tilicho Base Camp has limited options, with basic teahouses offering dal bhat, potato dishes, noodle soup, and eggs. Acclimatisation day in Manang is a good opportunity to buy last-minute supplies.
What to Pack
Basic accommodation on this route requires warm gear; sleeping bags should be rated to -15°C, and down jackets are essential. Trekking poles, gloves, traction aids, and sun protection (high-factor sunscreen, sunglasses, hat) are advised. Carry sufficient water capacity, as refill points are limited.
Why Book With 6K Nepal Treks
Licensed & Insured
Registered with Nepal Tourism Board, TAAN and NMA. Fully insured for trekking, climbing, and high-altitude emergencies.
Expert Local Guides
Every trek is led by a licensed, first-aid trained Sherpa or Gurung guide, born and raised in these mountains.
Safety First
Pulse oximeter and emergency oxygen carried on all high-altitude treks. Helicopter evacuation protocol on standby.
Small Groups
Maximum 12 trekkers per group. One porter per two guests. You are a person, not a tour number.
Fair & Transparent Pricing
No hidden fees. Permits, guides, porters and taxes are all included and itemised in your quote.
Responsible Travel
Fair wages for all staff, eco-friendly practices on the trail, and direct support for the mountain communities we work with.
Tilicho Lake Trek Reviews
4.9★ from 90+ Google Reviews
Trekkers guided from 30+ countries.
“Riding from Pokhara to Upper Mustang over five unforgettable days with Rohit was a true adventure in every sense of the word. As an experienced adventure motorbike rider, including demanding desert expeditions, I can say with absolute confidence that Rohit is a phenomenal rider and an exceptional tour guide. He masters the terrain, understands the mountains, and rides with calm authority and precision. I highly recommend Rohit and his company.”
Jacob Mato ★
Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour · Mar 2026
“Rohit was an excellent guide for my Khopra Ridge trek. From the very first day, he was professional, friendly, and always attentive. He knows the trail extremely well and made sure the pace was comfortable while still keeping good time each day. What I really appreciated was how caring and patient he was, especially on long uphill sections and in changing weather. I highly recommend Rohit to anyone planning the Khopra Ridge trek or any trek in Nepal.”
Birendra T Xettri ★
Khopra Ridge Trek · Mar 2026
“My first trek with Rohit, who is extremely knowledgeable. He is the mountain man of Nepal. His deep love for the mountains means he wants to give his trekkers the best experience, share his stories but above all make sure you are feeling safe, comfortable and able to complete the trek. We did Mardi Himal Trek, blessed with the weather. Do not hesitate to book with Rohit, I will be back again. Namaste”
Ange ★
Mardi Himal Trek · Jan 2026
“This was my second trek with Rohit, I first did the Manaslu Circuit with him a while ago and came back for Mardi Himal this time. Both experiences were absolutely fantastic. Rohit is professional, kind, and really knows the mountains. He always makes sure you're safe, comfortable, and enjoying yourself. He takes care of all the logistics, finds great tea houses, and adjusts the pace perfectly for everyone. Wouldn't trek in Nepal with anyone else.”
Peter Murphy ★
Manaslu Circuit + Mardi Himal · Jan 2026
“Rohit is a young, energetic, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic guide. He took us up to Annapurna Base Camp. We had bad weather, so Rohit decided to wait a day when other guides kept going up. Due to avalanche-risk, this was the obviously the best decision. Rohit always made sure that we felt comfortable and always in a good mood. We had fun, lots of laughter and great stories. Thanks to Rohit we will never forget: Dahl Baht Power 24 Hour!”
Sander Wolters ★
Annapurna Base Camp · 2025
“Without doubt the best guide in the world... Every part of our trip was a dream. From start to finish Rohit and his team had prepared everything to perfection. I cannot recommend this young man enough, so professional, so fun and so considerate. Thank you so much for making our time so special.”
Ryan Chandler ★
Himalayan Trek · Oct 2025
“Just returned from completing a 2 day trek with Rohit as our guide to Kapuche Glacier lake. It was a challenging but fantastic experience thanks to his professional skills his passion for the mountains and his outgoing and friendly personality. He was always there to guide and motivate us even up the never ending stairs!! His support and sense of humour got us safely to our destination and back again. If we return to Nepal we will definitely meet again.”
Karen Smith ★
Kapuche Glacier Lake · 2025
“We did Austrian Basecamp with Rohit. I thought it was going to be a short and predictable trek but I was surely wrong. We went up and stayed for the night and on the next day we did a long return going through some of the most stunning views I've ever seen in my 37 years of life. I don't think that would have been possible without the guidance of Rohit. Also it's really nice to share with him, he is friendly, respectful and chill. And he knows everything about Nepal, its mountains and its flora and fauna.”
Arturo Cuevillas ★
Australian Camp Trek · Jan 2026
“I recently embarked on the Dhampus-Pothana-Australia Camp trek with Rohit, and it was an experience I'll cherish forever. From the very beginning, Rohit's easygoing nature and ability to connect made the journey incredibly enjoyable. Our conversations ranged from deep discussions about spirituality, mountains, and cultures to sharing our mutual love for rock and metal music. Overall, trekking with Rohit was an incredible experience. His warmth, knowledge, and passion for the mountains truly enhanced the trip.”
Fahad Rahman ★
Dhampus-Pothana-Australian Camp · 2025
“Undertook Annapurna Base Camp Trek along with Rohit in first week of April 2025. His detailed knowledge and experience of the terrain and weather helped us having an awesome experience. He was accommodative of our needs and change in plans. Two days later we undertook a motorbike ride upto Muktinath in Mustang Valley. Again his energy, knowledge and experience in the area resulted in us having a superb n memorable time.”
Prateek Johari ★
Annapurna Base Camp + Mustang · Jul 2025
“Rohit was our guide on the 12 day Manaslu circuit trek. The trek was great, nice scenery, not too hard and Rohit took good care of making sure we had a place to sleep every night, as teahouses were filling up quickly because of high season. Rohit is a cheerful guy, social and he takes good care of his guests. With Rohit you are definitely in good company.”
Sara Coessens ★
Manaslu Circuit Trek · 2025
“Had an amazing 9 day Annapurna Base Camp Sanctuary Trek this June with Rohit and his team. His fantastic organisation, hosting, knowledge and professionalism makes Rohit a fabulous choice of guide. Visiting Nepal and especially the Himalayas is a life changing experience and I will never forget it.”
Rupert Potts ★
Annapurna Base Camp · Sep 2025
“Rohit (Haku) was one of the many blessings we received from Nepal. He is not only a great guide who knows how to make trips and expeditions fun and flowy. He is also an incredibly fun human to be around. It was delightful to spend some days riding to the temple of Muktinath with him. Jamming, and discovering a new young friend, full of kindness, values and knowledge.”
David Sanchez ★
Muktinath Motorbike Tour · 2025
“I called Rohit just before 8hrs of starting our Khumai Danda trek. Even after being tired he said let's meet in morning at 6am. He knows English, Hindi, French and Nepali. He not only guided the trek route but made the whole stretch very memorable and interesting. We told stories to each other. He became more like a friend. It was complete fun trekking with Rohit. And yes, Rohit has his own band. Quite an interesting guy.”
Shreyassh Verma ★
Khumai Danda Trek · 2024
“Had an amazing trek, Rohit is a perfect guide especially when dealing with the unpredictability of the trek, someone who's very easy going and social however extremely professional and even other guides would come to him for advice. 100/10”
Louis Anderson ★
Himalayan Trek · 2024
“Rohit is the guy to go trekking with! He knows a lot and can tell you a lot about life in the mountains but also about his amazing family. This drummer of a band can show you around, but also knows that silence in walking is good when doing a hike. Super chill and easy going.”
Rutger Dankelman ★
Himalayan Trek · 2024
“We had an amazing time with Rohit and Yuddha. Rohit was quick to reply when planning the trip and clearly explained the route options, and on the trip his enthusiasm and knowledge were very appreciated. He seems to know all the best tea houses for food too.”
Ben Ashby ★
Himalayan Trek · 2024
“What an amazing experience! Highly recommend Rohit to guide you through the Himalayas. Nothing was too much trouble for him and his team and they went out of their way to ensure we had an unforgettable trip. And most importantly. SO MUCH FUN!!!”
Richard Hilliard ★
Himalayan Trek · Sep 2025
“Just had the most fantastic trek with Rohit and his team. An incredible experience that has created amazing memories and hit the reset button for me in such a positive way. Thank you Rohit.. Namaste”
Jonathan Marriott ★
Himalayan Trek · Sep 2025
“Our experience in Nepal was nothing short of extraordinary, thanks to our incredible friend. He truly is a superman! From the very beginning, the tour was meticulously personalized to cater to our every need and interest, ensuring that we always had exciting activities to look forward to.”
Minhaj Ul Islam ★
Nepal Tour · 2025
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