Manang Tilicho Lake Trek

Nepal
Trekking
Moderate
12 Days
5,416 m

The Manang Tilicho Lake Trek is a breathtaking high-altitude adventure that takes trekkers to Tilicho Lake (4,919m), one of the world’s highest lakes, nestled beneath the towering peaks of the Annapurna range. This challenging yet rewarding route branches off the classic Annapurna Circuit, offering dramatic landscapes—from lush subtropical valleys to arid alpine deserts—as it ascends through traditional Tibetan-influenced villages like Manang and Khangsar. The lake’s turquoise waters, surrounded by snow-capped giants like Annapurna I (8,091m) and Nilgiri (7,061m), create a surreal, otherworldly setting. The trek also includes crossing the thrilling Mesokanto La Pass (5,125m), adding an element of rugged adventure for those seeking an extra challenge. With its mix of natural grandeur, cultural richness, and high-altitude thrills, the Tilicho Lake Trek is a must for experienced trekkers.

Typically taking 12–15 days, the journey begins in Besisahar and follows the Marsyangdi River Valley through charming villages like Chame and Pisang, where trekkers acclimatize while exploring ancient monasteries and yak pastures. The route to Tilicho Lake involves steep, rocky trails and potential snowfields, demanding good fitness and preparation, but rewards with unparalleled views and a profound sense of accomplishment. Highlights include sunrise over the Gangapurna Glacier, encounters with blue sheep, and the stark beauty of the Tilicho Base Camp (4,200m). Unlike busier Annapurna routes, this trek retains a wild, remote feel, perfect for adventurers craving solitude amid the Himalayas’ raw majesty.

Trip Facts

Activities
Trekking
Starting Price
USD$ 720 /PP
Accommodation
Tea House / Lodge
Max. Altitude
5,416 m
Best Season
Autumn
Trip Hours/Day
5 - 6 Hours
Trip Grade
Moderate
Group Size
2 - 10

Highlights & Attractions

Tilicho Lake (4,919m) – One of the world’s highest lakes, with surreal turquoise waters framed by Annapurna’s icy peaks.
Thorong La Pass (5,416m) – Iconic high-altitude crossing with 360° views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and more.
Gangapurna Glacier & Ice Lake – A dramatic frozen cascade near Manang, with optional hikes to Ice Lake (4,600m).
Marsyangdi River Valley – Lush gorges, waterfalls, and suspension bridges in the lower trails.

Trip Itinerary
Include & Excludes
Trip Notes
Reviews

Trip Itinerary

Day 01: Drive, Kathmandu → Besisahar (760m) → Chame (2,670m)

6:00 AM: Scenic 6-hour drive to Besisahar (lunch stop)
1:00 PM: Jeep ride (4-5 hrs) along Marsyangdi River to Chame
Highlights: First views of Lamjung Himal, hot springs in Chame
Overnight: Teahouse
Day 02: Chame → Pisang (3,300m) | 5-6 hrs

Trail through pine forests with glimpses of Annapurna II
Cross suspension bridges, pass apple orchards
Key Stop: Paungda Danda rock face (1,500m sheer cliff)
Overnight: Upper Pisang for better mountain views
Day 03: Pisang → Manang (3,540m) | 6-7 hrs

Two route options: High route (recommended): Via Ghyaru (3,660m) for Annapurna

panoramas

Low route: Flat but less scenic
Visit Bhraga Monastery (oldest in Manang)
Acclimatization: Explore Manang’s cobbled streets
Day 04: Acclimatization in Manang

Activities: Hike to Gangapurna Lake (3,900m)
Visit Himalayan Rescue Association clinic (altitude talk)
Watch a documentary at the "Movie House" (yes, really!)

Overnight: Manang
Day 05: Manang → Khangsar (3,740m) | 3-4 hrs

Short trek through juniper shrubs
Last village before Tilicho Lake
Prepare: Pack extra water/snacks (next day is tough)
Overnight: Basic teahouse
Day 06: Khangsar → Tilicho Base Camp (4,200m) | 4-5 hrs

Rugged trail with landslide sections (trek early)
Stark landscape: Feels like the moon!
Sleep early for next day’s ascent
Day 07: Base Camp → Tilicho Lake (4,919m) → Shree Kharka (3,900m) | 8-9 hrs

Start at 4:00 AM to avoid afternoon winds
Lake arrival: Spend 1-2 hrs soaking in views (no swimming!)
Descend carefully to Shree Kharka
Note: Skip Mesokanto La if inexperienced (avalanche risk)
Day 08: Shree Kharka → Yak Kharka (4,050m) | 4-5 hrs

Rejoin Annapurna Circuit trail
Spot blue sheep on cliffs
Overnight: Cozy teahouse with bakery
Day 09: Yak Kharka → Thorong Phedi (4,450m) | 3-4 hrs

Gradual climb for altitude adaptation
Sleep by 8:00 PM for early pass crossing
Day 10: Thorong Phedi → Thorong La Pass (5,416m) → Muktinath (3,760m) | 8-10 hrs

Start at 3:00 AM (headlamps essential)
Pass summit by 9:00 AM (celebrate with photos!)
Long descent to holy Muktinath
Hot shower reward!
Day 11: Drive, Muktinath to Pokhara via Jomsom (2,720m) | 5-6 hrs

Visit Muktinath Temple (Hindu-Buddhist pilgrimage site)
Jeep/bus ride through Kali Gandaki gorge
Overnight: Pokhara,(try local apple brandy)
Day 12: Pokhara to Kathmandu by Bus

Pokhara to Kathmandu by Bus, Treks End

Package Includes

Permits: ACAP & TIMS card fees
Accommodation: Teahouse lodges during trek
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner (standard Nepali meals)
.Transport: Pokhara-Kande & Lumre-Pokhara by jeep
Safety: Basic first aid kit & emergency oxygen

Package Excludes

Flights: Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu
Pokhara Hotels: Pre/post-trek stays
Insurance: Medical/evacuation coverage (mandatory)
Personal Gear: Trekking poles, sleeping bag, etc.

Trip Notes

Here’s why the Manang Tilicho Lake Trek stands out as a must-do Himalayan adventure:

1. World’s Highest Lake in the Annapurna Sanctuary

Stand beside the turquoise waters of Tilicho Lake (4,919m), cradled by Annapurna’s icy giants—a surreal, almost alien landscape few trekkers experience.
Unlike crowded Everest or Annapurna Base Camp treks, this route offers solitude and raw Himalayan grandeur.

2. Thrilling High-Altitude Challenge

Cross the Thorong La Pass (5,416m), one of Nepal’s most iconic (and toughest) trekking passes, with 360° mountain vistas.
Navigate the landslide-prone trail to Tilicho—a heart-pumping adventure for seasoned trekkers.

3. Cultural Deep Dive in Manang

Explore Tibetan-influenced villages like Pisang and Manang, where ancient monasteries and chortens dot the trail.
Witness Bon-Po and Buddhist rituals in Braga Monastery, home to a 500-year-old “speaking” statue.

4. Dramatic Landscape Diversity

Trek from lush subtropical valleys (Marsyangdi River) to high-altitude deserts (Manang’s arid plateaus).
Contrast the Gangapurna Glacier’s icy chaos with Tilicho Lake’s serene beauty.

5. Wildlife & Starry Skies

Spot blue sheep, Himalayan griffons, and maybe even snow leopards near Khangsar.
Sleep under some of Nepal’s clearest night skies (minimal light pollution).

Manang Tilicho Lake Trek