Inquiry

Manang Tilicho Lake Trek

Manang Tilicho Lake Trek

  •   Nepal
  •   Trekking and Hiking
  •   Moderate
  •   12 Days
  •   5,416 m
Manang Tilicho Lake Trek
  • Manang Tilicho Lake Trek
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 and Hiking

  • Starting Price

    USD$ 775 /PP

  • Accommodation

    Tea House / Mountain Lodge

  • Max. Altitude

    5,416 m

  • Best Season

    Autumn and Spring /All season

  • Trip Hours/Day

    5 - 6 Hours

  • Trip Grade

    Moderate

  • Group Size

    2 - 15

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.

Need more info?

Get advice from our expert.

+977 9851088440
Book This Trip
  • Trip Itinerary
  • Include & Excludes
  • Trip Notes
  • Reviews

Trip Itinerary

  • Day 01: Drive to Kathmandu - Besisahar (760m) 6/7 hours
    Drive from Kathmandu to Besi Sahar, Private Jeep or normal Tourist bus . overnight in Besi Sahar.
  • Day 02: Drive Besi Sahar to Chame (2670 m) 6/7 hours
    After breakfast in Besisahar, drive toward Chame (2,670 m), the administrative center of Manang District. The journey follows the Marsyangdi River through dramatic mountain scenery, waterfalls, suspension bridges, terraced hillsides, and traditional villages. As the road climbs higher into the Manang Valley, the landscape changes from subtropical forests to alpine terrain, with increasingly spectacular views of Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal and Manaslu.
  • Day 03: Trek Chame to Pisang (3300 m) 5/6 hours
    Walk through beautiful pine forests and the narrow Marsyangdi valley. Along the way, you'll encounter dramatic cliffs and increasingly impressive views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak. Pass through dense forests and reach the village of Pisang. Continue to Upper Pisang for better views and acclimatization.
  • Day 04: Pisang to Manag (3540 m)
    Take the scenic upper route via Ghyaru and Ngawal, which provides spectacular views of Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna and surrounding peaks. Continue through Braga before reaching Manang. T rek through arid landscapes and villages. explore around Braga Village. Reach Manang, a popular spot for acclimatization.
  • Day 05: Acclimatization Day in Manang
    Today is an important acclimatization day before gaining more altitude. You can take a short hike toward Gangapurna Lake, Praken Gompa or another nearby viewpoint before returning to Manang. The purpose is to allow your body to adjust to the increasing altitude rather than simply staying inactive all day.
  • Day 06: Manang to Khangsar Village (3760 m)
    The trail follows the Khangsar Khola through a dry Himalayan landscape, with spectacular views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna and surrounding peaks. The route gradually leaves the busier Manang area behind. You cross the river and continue through sparse vegetation, rocky terrain and traditional mountain settlements before reaching Khangsar Village.
  • Day 07: Khangsar to Tilicho Base Camp (4150 m)
    The trail gradually climbs through an increasingly dry and rugged Himalayan landscape, with spectacular views of Tilicho Peak, Khangsar Kang, Gangapurna and the surrounding mountains. The trail passes through Shree Kharka, where you can take a short break and have lunch before continuing toward Tilicho Base Camp. Beyond Shree Kharka, the route becomes more exposed as it traverses a steep mountainside above the valley
  • Day 08: Early morning Excursion to Tilicho Lake and Shree Kharka (4150 m )
    The trail climbs steadily from Tilicho Base Camp toward the lake. The ascent is demanding because of the high altitude and rocky terrain. The route gains roughly 800 m of elevation, reaching approximately 4,919 m at Tilicho Lake. The lake lies in a spectacular high-altitude basin surrounded by Tilicho Peak, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, Nilgiri and other Himalayan peaks. Spend some time at the lake taking photographs and enjoying the extraordinary mountain scenery.
  • Day 09: Shree Kharka to Yak Kharka (4015 m
    The landscape is characterized by juniper bushes, dry alpine meadows and rocky slopes, with excellent views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Keep an eye out for Himalayan wildlife such as blue sheep, Himalayan tahr and birds that inhabit this high-altitude environment.
  • Day 10: Yak Kharka to Thorang High Camp (4850 m)
    Today's trek takes you toward the base of the famous Thorong La Pass. Follow the Marsyangdi valley before crossing toward Thorong Phedi and upward to Throng High Camp. This is a relatively short walking day, allowing you to rest and prepare for the following day's high-altitude pass crossing.
  • Day 11: Trek to Thorong High Camp to Thorong La Pass (5,416m) and Muktinath (3,760m) 9/10 hours
    Today is one of the most exciting and challenging days of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Starting early from Thorong High Camp, trek toward the magnificent Thorong La Pass at (5,416 m), enjoying breathtaking Himalayan views along the way. After crossing the pass, descend through the dramatic Mustang landscape to Muktinath (3,800 m), a sacred destination surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. Explore around Temple and down to Hotel.
  • Day 12: Drive from Muktinath to Pokhara via Jomsom Bazar 8/9 hours
    Today, drive from Muktinath to Pokhara by public bus or Private Jeep, following the scenic Kali Gandaki Valley through the diverse landscapes of Mustang and the Annapurna region. Pass traditional villages, apple orchards, waterfalls, deep valleys, and mountain scenery before reaching Pokhara. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening in the lakeside city.

Package Includes

  • Permits: ACAP & TIMS card fees
  • Accommodation: Teahouse lodges during trek
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner (standard Nepali meals)
  • .Transport: Besi Sahar-Chame & Muktinath-Jomsom-Pokhara by bus/jeep
  • Safety: Basic first aid kit
  • Guide: Experience Trekking Guide
  • Porter -Optional can be arrange

Package Excludes

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

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).

Reviews