Tilicho Lake Trek - 8 Days

Trip Facts
Duration 8 Days
Max Altitude 4,919 meters
Trip Grade Moderate
Group Size 1 - 20
Meals Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner
Accommodation Teahouse
Highlights

Tilicho Lake Trek Highlights

  • Trek to Tilicho Lake to explore Lake surrounded by Tilicho Peak, Nilgiri Himal, Khangsar Kang, Gangapurna, and the majestic Annapurna I.
  • Trek through remote village of Nepal inside Annapurna Region
  • Enjoy the panoramic view of mountain peaks from various view points.
  • Explore glacial landscapes, ice lakes, and high-altitude valleys
  • Witness Tibetan-influenced culture and ancient monasteries in Manang
Overview

Tilicho Lake Trek Overview

Tilicho Lake trek, 8 days, takes you to Nepal’s most stunning high altitude lake inside the Annapurna region. Tilicho Lake is surrounded by stunning Himalayan peaks and is situated at an altitude of 4,919 meters (16,138 feet) above sea level. 

Your journey to the Tilicho Lake trek starts with a scenic drive from Kathmandu towards Chame. Then you will pass through villages like Bhratang, Dhukur Pokhari, Lower Pisang and Upper Pisang. 

From the Pisang, you will take a scenic northern route via Ghyaru, enjoying the breathtaking views of the Annapurna Range (specifically II, III, and IV), Pisang Peak, and the Lamjung Himal. 

Then you will also visit Gangapurna Lake, which is situated at an altitude of 3,540 meters (11,614 feet) above sea level. You can also visit the famous Manang Ice Lake, surrounded by Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Chulu peaks.

Then, crossing the Tilicho landslide zone from Shree Kharka, you will arrive at Tilicho Base Camp. Finally, you will reach Tilicho Lake and enjoy your moment, take lots of videos and photos for the memories and return to Manang. From Manang, you will drive back to Besisahar and continue driving toward Kathmandu to conclude your journey.

Book this trek with us because we focus on safe, well-managed, and authentic Himalayan experiences. With experienced local guides, proper acclimatization planning, and full logistics support, we ensure your journey to Tilicho Lake is not just successful—but truly unforgettable.

About Tilicho Lake 

CategoryDetails
LocationAnnapurna, Manang, Nepal
Coordinates28°41′30″N 83°51′10″E
TypeGlacial lake
Basin countriesNepal
Max. length4 km (2.5 mi)
Max. width1.2 km (0.75 mi)
Surface area4.8 km² (1.9 sq mi)
Average depth85 m (279 ft)
Water volume156×10⁶ L (approx. 41 million US gallons)
Surface elevation4,919 m (16,138 ft) above sea level

Tilicho Lake Trek Routes

Sunrise over Tilicho Peak
Sunrise over Tilicho Peak captured on the way to Tilicho Base Camp.

The standard route of the Tilicho Lake Trek goes through Manang – Tilicho Base Camp – Tilicho Lake. However, depending on your interest and time, you can also extend your journey to other famous destinations such as Thorong La Pass, Muktinath Temple, Jomsom, and Pokhara, or take the more adventurous route via the Mesokanto La Pass.

Religious Importance of Tilicho Lake

Buddha and Shiva Statue at Tilicho Lake
Buddha and Shiva Statue at Tilicho Lake

Tilicho Lake is linked with the sacred Kak Bhusundi Lake and is mentioned in the Ramayana. So this place holds strong religious significance, especially in Hindu tradition. You can see the Shiva statue on the shore of Tilcho Lake, and it is decorated with a Praying flag. People visit here not only to explore but also to worship, giving the lake a deep mythological and religious importance. 

For Hindu devotees, Tilicho is viewed as a pure and sacred Himalayan water body that represents spiritual peace and elevation. Even though it is now mainly known as a trekking destination, its religious association continues to inspire pilgrims who see it as a place where nature and divinity come together.

Tilicho Lake Trek Best Time

Tilicho Lake, Manang
Tilicho Lake, Manang — A pristine Himalayan jewel proposed for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Nepal.

It is possible to visit Tilicho Lake throughout the year as it is open all year round. But for the scenic views during the trek and favourable weather conditions for travelling, most of the trekkers choose either the spring or autumn season. 

Tilicho Lake trek in Spring (March to May) is considered one of the best times to visit due to pleasant weather, with colorful rhododendron flowers in bloom and clear views of the mountains. The skies are mostly clear during this season, although occasional rainfall or snowfall can still occur in the higher regions.

Tilicho Lake trek in Autumn (September to November) is another popular time, and you can expect huge crowds in this season. The risk of landslides is low in this season, and you can enjoy the best view of Annapurna II, III, IV and Tilicho Peak. 

Tilicho Lake trek in Winter (December–February) is possible, but the risk remains high on the trekking trails due to heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures. Also, the lake remains frozen, turning into a white, snowy landscape.

We generally don’t recommend trekking to Tilicho Lake in the monsoon (June to August) due to heavy rainfall and high risk of slippery landslides. Also, the views of the mountain range are not visible due to poor visibility.

Required Permits for Tilicho Lake Trek

To begin your Tilicho Lake Trek in Nepal, it is important to obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit first. You can get the ACAP permit on your own from the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) office in Bhrikutimandap. It will cost you around NPR 3,000 per person for foreign citizens and NPR 100 for Nepali citizens. Since our package covers the cost of the permit, you need to send us your copy of your passport and a passport-size photograph, and we will handle the rest.

Tilicho Lake Trek Cost for 2026/2027

Our Tilicho Lake trek cost starts from USD 800 per person. Our price is affordable, transparent on the website, and there will be no hidden costs. You can check what things are included and excluded in our package to manage your budget. If you are in a large group, then we also offer a group discount to you. 

No. of personsCost in USD
1-2800
2-6750
8 + 700
Itinerary

Tilicho Lake Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Chame (2,670 m)

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On this day, we will pick you up from your hotel, and then you will ride to Chame in our private vehicle. If you are a solo or a small group(1-3), we will arrange either a bus or a shared Jeep for you. Riding for around 6 hours on a smooth paved road, you will reach Besishar. From here, the drive toward Chame is extremely bumpy off-road. After you reach Chame, you will check into the guest house and stay overnight at Chame.

⛰ Altitude: 2,670 m
🍽 Meals: B,L,D
🏨 Stay: Teahouse

Day 2: Trek to Upper Pisang (3,300 m)

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From Chame to Upper Pisang, you will hike today for around 5 - 6 hours. Your journey begins walking through the pine forests, Wooded gorges, steep rock faces and open high valleys. You will pass through Paungda Danda, Apple orchards, and when you reach closer to Pisang, you will enjoy the grand view of Annapurna II (7,937 m). Then, further walking through Lower Pisang, you will reach Upper Pisang, famous for the traditional village with an old gompa (monastery). Tonight you will stay in a teahouse at Upper Pisang.

⛰ Altitude: 3,300 m
🍽 Meals: B,L,D
🏨 Stay: Teahouse

Day 3: Trek to Manang (3,540 m)

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From Upper Pisang, there are two routes to reach Manang: the upper trail and the lower trail. Although the lower trail is less strenuous, we take the upper trail because of the scenic route via Ghyaru and Ngawal. Today's hike will be around 5 to 7 hours, and en route, you can enjoy the breathtaking panorama views of Annapurna II, III and IV. After you reach Manang, you will stay in the teahouse and spend the night at Manang.

⛰ Altitude: 3,540 m
🍽 Meals: B,L,D
🏨 Stay: Teahouse

Day 4: Acclimatization in Manang.

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Today you will stay in Manang to acclimatise your body to reduce the effect of Altitude. So we will follow the climb high and sleep low method. On this day you will do a short hike to Gangapurna Lake or Ice Lake and return to the teahouse and stay overnight at Manang.

Gangapurna Lake:

  • Duration: 3–5 hours
  • Maximum Altitude: approx. 3,750m
  • Distance: 8-9 km(round trip)
  • Difficulty: moderate
  • Highlights: Stunning view of Gangapurna Glacier, Gangapurna Lake, and Annapurna III.

Ice Lake:

  • Duration: 7–8 hours
  • Maximum Altitude: 4,620m
  • Distance: 16 km(round trip)
  • Difficulty: moderate - difficult
  • Highlights: Stunning view of Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak.
⛰ Altitude: 3,540 m
🍽 Meals: B,L,D
🏨 Stay: Teahouse

Day 5: Trek to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150 m)

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From Manang, you will start your journey via Kangsar and Shree Kharka. You will pass the most impressive erosion landscapes in the Himalayas. While passing through this "Landslide Area," make sure to walk carefully. Walking for around 5- 7 hours on steep slopes, you will finally arrive at Tilicho Base Camp. Then you will check into the teahouse and stay overnight here.

⛰ Altitude: 4,150 m
🍽 Meals: B,L,D
🏨 Stay: Teahouse

Day 6: Hike to Tilicho Lake (4,919 m) & back to Shree Kharka.

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Today is the main highlight of this entire trek. Today you will visit Tilicho Lake to explore the beauty of this high-altitude lake. You will start your hike early in the morning, around 5 - 6 AM, so that you can avoid the windy afternoon. Walking for around 3 hours, you will reach Tilicho Lake, and after spending some time, you will hike back to base camp. Then, having lunch at the base camp, you will continue walking toward the Shree Kharka. 

⛰ Altitude: 4,919 m
🍽 Meals: B,L,D
🏨 Stay: Teahouse

Day 7: Trek to Manang & drive to Besisahar.

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From the Shree Kharka, you will start your trek toward Manang, the same route you have walked before. After you arrive at Manang, you will take a Jeep and drive to Besisahar and stay in the teahouse at Besisahar.

⛰ Altitude: 760 m
🍽 Meals: B,L,D
🏨 Stay: Teahouse

Day 8: Drive to Kathmandu

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From Besishar, you will take a jeep and ride back to Kathmandu. From Besisahar, it will take you around 6 -7 hours to reach Kathmandu.

⛰ Altitude: 1,400 m
🏨 Stay: Hotel
Cost Detail

Inclusion

What's included ?

  • Licensed trekking guide and porter
  • ACAP permit
  • Accommodation during trek
  • 3 meals per day (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • Kathmandu–Besisahar–Kathmandu transport
  • Trekking logistics support

What's not included ?

  • International flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Drinks & snacks
  • Tips for guide/porter
Things to Know

How To Book Tilicho Lake Trek

To book the Tilicho lake Trek with High Route Adventure you can follow this simple steps:

Step 1: Visit Tilicho Lake Trek Package, read and click on book now options.

Step 2: Make a payment of 20% of total trip cost to secure your booking. Get official confirmation through mail or whatsapp.

To make a payment you can choose:

  • Credit and Debit Cards
  • Digital Wallets
  • Bank Transfers/Open Banking
  • QR
  • Cash( USD, Euro, Pound and other accepted currency)

Note: Before making a booking make sure to check our terms and conditions.

Notes

Tilicho Lake Trek Difficulty Explained

Tilicho Lake trek is considered a moderate-level trek in Nepal. It means the first-time trekker or beginner trekkers can also participate in this trek. The main challenge that trekkers need to face is to walk in difficult terrain conditions, especially in the narrow landslide zone. Also, walking for 5-6 hours daily while carrying a backpack can be tough for those who are not physically strong. 

Another main issue that trekkers need to deal with is mountain sickness(AMS). AMS can happen to anyone while trekking to high altitudes above 3,000m. If it happens, then you will feel difficulty in breathing, vomiting, headache, etc.

Additionally, the unpredictable weather conditions can make the trek challenging. You should deal with rainfall, snowfall and freezing temperatures at Tilicho Lake if the weather turns bad. 

How to prepare before heading for the Tilicho Lake Trek?

Tilicho Lake trek can be one of your best treks in Nepal if you prepare physically and take proper precautions before you head out for the journey. The first thing that you need to focus on is to build strong legs so that you can walk for 5-6 hours easily. The more easily you can walk, the less you will get exhausted, and it also reduces the chances of AMS. 

The weather at high altitudes can change rapidly, even if you check the weather forecast. You should carry layered clothing that keeps you warm, protects you from wind, and can be adjusted easily with changing temperatures. If the Tilicho Lake is frozen and the surrounding areas are covered with snow, we recommend that you use crampons to protect yourself from falls and slippery conditions. 

Another main thing that you need to keep in mind is that during the peak season, especially during autumn, huge numbers of travellers visit here due to the festival vacation in Nepal. So make sure to book the room in the teahouse in advance for your convenience. 

Accommodation on Tilicho Lake Trek

On this 9-day Tilicho Lake trek in Nepal, you will stay in the teahouse, which is prebooked by High Route Adventure. We will provide you the best available room in the tea house at the teahouse. Inside the tea house, you can get a clean bed with a warm blanket. There will be twin beds, and rooms are often shared among the travellers. You can connect to Wifi by paying around NPR 300 to 500, depending on the place. Also, for the charging, it will cost you around NPR 200, and you can find the charging station in the dining area. 

Hot shower facilities are also available in the tea house for around NPR 500. You can also find a single room with an attached bathroom, but you need to pay an extra cost for that. If you want to upgrade the room, you need to inform us while booking the trek.

Food and Drinks on Tilicho Lake Trek

During the Tilicho Lake trek in Nepal, you will stay in the teahouse, and they have their own restaurants. This restaurant provides a wide range of Nepali dishes, including a few international dishes. The food items might be limited as you go to higher altitudes. There will be veg and non- veg meal options, and you can choose to order the meals for yourself. Three meals( breakfast, lunch and dinner) will be arranged by the High Route Adventure. You can also find the drinks, snacks and bakery items, but they will not be included in the trek package.

Let’s see the common meal you can expect in the tea house menu:

Breakfast

  • Porridge (oatmeal)
  • Pancakes (plain, apple, or chocolate)
  • Eggs (boiled, fried, scrambled, omelet)
  • Toast with butter and jam
  • Chapati or Tibetan bread
  • Cornflakes with milk
  • Tea or coffee

Lunch & Dinner

  • Dal Bhat (rice, lentil soup, vegetables, pickles)
  • Fried rice (veg/egg/chicken)
  • Noodles (veg/egg/chicken)
  • Pasta and spaghetti
  • Momos (dumplings – veg or non-veg)
  • Pizza (basic teahouse style)
  • Potato dishes (boiled, fried, curry, hash brown)
  • Soups (vegetable, noodle, garlic soup)

Snacks & Extras (Not Included)

  • Biscuits and cookies
  • Chocolate bars
  • Nuts and dried fruits
  • Bakery items (cakes, pastries in lower regions)

Drinks (Not Included)

  • Black tea, milk tea, ginger tea, lemon tea
  • Coffee
  • Hot chocolate
  • Soft drinks and bottled water
  • Boiled water

Chances of Altitude Sickness on Tilicho Lake Trek

The maximum altitude that you will reach on this Tilicho Lake trek is 4,919 meters (16,138 feet) above sea level. At the same time, heading at such an altitude, some trekkers, after reaching 3,000 m they find difficulty in their bodies due to the effects of altitude. When people catch AMS, they will experience symptoms such as headache, vomiting, loss of appetite, etc. So the chances of altitude sickness are real on this trek, and we should never ignore them. The early stage of AMS can be cured by resting and heading to a lower altitude. If you ignore it, it can turn on HACE and HAPE, which are deadly forms of AMS. 

Transportation Used for Tilicho Lake Trek

To reach the starting point of the Tilicho Lake Trek (8 Days), you will travel by private jeep from Kathmandu if you are in a group of more than 3 people. For smaller groups, shared jeep or local bus transport will be arranged up to Besisahar. From Besisahar onward, you will continue by jeep, as the road conditions are off-road and not accessible by regular buses.

Importance of Travel and Health Insurance for Tilicho Lake Trek

It is not mandatory to show proof of travel and health insurance for the Tilicho Lake trek. We strongly recommend that you have it before travelling to Nepal for the Tilicho Lake trek. Having the insurance policy helps to make coverage during unexpected situations, and if you don’t have travel insurance, it will cost a lot of money for evacuation. Also, the risk of AMS, injuries, or sudden weather changes is common in mountain areas. So make sure your policy includes:

  1. Emergency Medical Coverage
  2. Helicopter Evacuation and Rescue
  3. Trip Cancellation and Interruption
  4. Coverage for Accidents and Injuries
  5. Repatriation Coverage
  6. Personal Belongings and Theft Protection

Equipment

Pack smart for the high-altitude adventure to Tilicho Lake (4,919 m). Here’s a simple essential checklist:

  • Warm layered clothing (thermal base layers, fleece, down jacket)
  • Waterproof jacket and pants
  • Trekking boots (broken-in, good grip)
  • Warm hat, gloves, and neck gaiter
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen (UV protection is essential)
  • Trekking poles for steep and rocky trails
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Sleeping bag (rated for cold temperatures)
  • Water bottles or hydration system
  • Basic first aid kit and personal medicines
  • Toiletries and quick-dry towel
  • Snacks (energy bars, nuts, chocolate)

This list keeps your load light while ensuring safety and comfort in changing Himalayan conditions.

FAQs

FAQs of Tilicho Lake Trek

  • Where is Tilicho Lake located?

    The Tilicho Lake trek is located in the Manang district of Nepal, within the Annapurna Conservation Area in the central Himalayas, at an altitude of around 4,919 meters. It lies along the famous Annapurna Circuit route, typically accessed from Manang via Khangsar and Tilicho Base Camp.
  • How difficult is the Tilicho Lake Trek?

    The Tilicho Lake trek is considered moderate, but factors like long daily hikes, narrow landslide-prone trails, and high altitude make it physically demanding. The risk of Acute Mountain Sickness, along with unpredictable weather and remote terrain, further adds to the overall difficulty.
  • Do I need a guide for Tilicho Lake Trek?

    You can do the Tilicho Lake trek without a guide also. But if you are a foreign trekker and don’t have previous high altitude trekking experience we recommend you to hire a guide with you.
  • What permits are required for Tilicho Lake Trek?

    To begin your journey for the Tilicho Lake Trek you need to have a Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP). There are checkpoints at several places like Dharapani, Chame, and Manang where your ACAP permit will be checked.
  • How long is the Tilicho Lake Trek?

    For Nepali citizens you can complete the Tilicho lake trek in 5 Days but for the foreign citizen it will take 9-12 days to complete the TIlicho lake trek.
  • What is the altitude of Tilicho Lake?

    Tilicho Lake is situated at an altitude of 4,919 meters (16,138 feet) in the Manang district of Nepal and is one of the highest large glacial lakes in the world. Although it was once considered Nepal’s highest lake, it has been surpassed by Kajin Sara Lake, which lies at an altitude of 5,020 meters (16,469 feet).
  • Can beginners do the Tilicho Lake Trek?

    Yes, many beginner trekkers have already reached the Tilicho Lake trek without having much difficulty. But beginners must focus on building strong legs and endurance to handle long trek duration, steep ascent, and high altitude conditions.
  • Is altitude sickness common in Tilicho Lake Trek?

    Yes, altitude sickness is quite common on the Tilicho Lake Trek because the trail reaches high elevations, with Tilicho Lake sitting at 4,919 meters. Some trekkers might experience the symptoms of AMS but with the proper acclimatisation, hydration and gradual ascent it can be reduced. Also you can take Diamox by consulting with a doctor as a preventive measure.
  • What is included in the Tilicho Lake Trek package?

    In our 8 Days Tilicho Lake Trek Package Nepal you can find guide, porter, permit, meal, accommodation, ground transportation and logistic facilities.
  • Is Tilicho Lake harder than Annapurna Circuit?

    Compared to the Annapurna Circuit trek, Tilicho lake trek is quite easier as you don’t need to cross the challenging Thorong La Pass(5,416 meters).
  • How much does Tilicho Lake Trek cost in 2026?

    Tilicho Lake trek package cost starts from USD 700 per person. The actual cost depends upon the itinerary you chose, transportation, travelling season and level of service you demand. If you choose a luxury Tilicho Lake trek it will cost you around USD 1000- 1200 per person.
  • What is the maximum altitude of the trek?

    The maximum altitude of the Tilicho Lake Trek is 4,919 meters (16,138 feet) at Tilicho Lake. However, if you combine it with the Annapurna Circuit Trek, the altitude increases significantly, reaching 5,416 meters (17,769 feet) at Thorong La Pass.
  • Is Tilicho Lake frozen in winter?

    Yes, during winter the Tilicho Lake often freezes because temperatures in the region can drop below -20°C, especially at night. This extreme cold turns the lake and surrounding landscape into a completely snow-covered, icy environment, making trekking more challenging but also visually striking.
  • Can I do Tilicho Lake Trek solo?

    Yes, it is possible to do the Tilicho Lake Trek solo, as long as you obtain the required Annapurna Conservation Area Project permit and plan your accommodation in advance. During the peak autumn season, it’s especially important to book teahouses early because the route to Tilicho Lake gets busy and limited lodging can fill up quickly.

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