Tilicho Lake Trek

Annapurna with Tilicho Lake Trek is a fantastic journey along the famous Annapurna region and to Tilicho Lake (4949m), one of the highest lakes in the world. The trail cuts through varied elevations and has climates ranging from semi-tropical to desert, and with the landscapes varying from sub-tropical to alpine forests to snowy barren, and the stunning rocky Thorongla mountain pass with an altitude of  5416 meters. The trip begins in Kathmandu with visits to several cultural heritage sites. Next, drive to Chamje and begin the trek from Dharapani.

This is a 17-day trek best for trekkers willing to not just walk on the Annapurna circle trail but also reach the serene Tilicho Lake. However, for trekkers who prefer a shorter trek in mostly the same route then Annapurna Circle Trek - 14 Days is ideal. Another option for trekkers who want to circle the Annapurna massif Annapurna Circuit Trek - 21 Days would be best.

Tilicho Lake Trekking collects the glacial melt of the entire northern slopes of Annapurna and Thorang Peak, which is claimed to be the highest lake in the world, is situated in the Annapurna range of the Central Nepal Himalaya at height of 4819m. The Tilicho Lake is a famous lake from natural beauty as well as a religious point of view as in 2001, Hindu pilgrims from around the world flocked to the lake convinced it is a holy spot mentioned in the Ramayan - a holy book of the Hindus. Tilicho Lake treks in the Annapurna region undoubtedly provides some of the world's best trekking routes, including as it does a greater variety of scenery and culture than can be found in any other comparable area. During the Tilicho area trekking, Nepal's spectacular diversity appears at its finest deep valleys and high mountains encircling the giant Annapurna Himal embrace a wide range of peoples and terrain, from subtropical forest to a high, dry landscape resembling with the Tibetan Plateau. Tilicho lake trekking leads you to the fine village inhabited by a wide diversity of people from different ethnic groups, offering spectacular and majestic views of the white Himalayas.

The Tilicho Lake Trek starts right from Besisahar as Annapurna Circuit Trekking, which goes along the Marsyangdi River, with great views of Manaslu and Himal Chuli to the east. For the lovers of nature it a magnificent view and real opportunity to see a lake at this altitude also it is famous for the religious point of view. The trail goes to Yak Kharka and joins the normal route crossing the Thorong la Pass (5416m). Also we will visit Muktinath via Plateau of Kagbeni and return to Jomsom. On the way we would have passed through every type of vegetation zone from lush sub-tropical to harsh semi-desert and passed over one of the highest trekking passes in the world.

The spectacular views of the majestic Himalayas and the glistening waters of a high altitude lake will keep you regaling your experiences for years to come. Take on the challenge of this difficult trek and the rewards will be immeasurable and a true once in a lifetime experience. This magnificent route leads you through traditional Manangi villages inhabited by friendly, habitual people who always offer a warm welcome amidst the magical, snow capped Himalayas. You will enjoy the delightful sights of quaint Tibetan villages, astounding rock formations, high altitude grazing settlements, narrow canyons, deep forests and majestic snow clad peaks during your Nepal Tilicho lake trek. We will have chance to enter a world without roads or cars and witnessed the way people have worked, played and survived for hundreds and hundreds of years. Tilicho Lake Trekking will be a perfect destination for those who aspire to venture into some of the less trodden remote regions of Nepal apart from the regular trekking routes.

ITINERARY

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft)

Upon our arrival in the Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, we will be greeted by a representative from Everest Expeditions Nepal who will drop us off at our hotel. After checking in, we may also stroll in the streets of Thamel, a tourist hub in Kathmandu for some souvenir shopping. In the evening, there will be a welcome dinner hosted by Everest Expeditions Nepal. For dinner, you will be served excellent authentic Nepalese cuisine which will introduce you to the Nepalese food culture. Included meals: Breakfast

Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing and trek preparation

Today after breakfast we start a guided tour to several of the most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu. Some of these landmarks are considered World Heritage Sites including the historic Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the famous 'Monkey Temple' (Swayambhunath) and Buddhist shrine (Bouddhanath) which is one of the largest stupas in the world. At noon, there will be a pre-trip discussion where we can meet our trek leader and other team members. Everest Expeditions Nepal briefs us regarding our trek as well as provides us an opportunity to ask any questions we may have regarding our upcoming adventure. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Included meals: Breakfast

DAY 03:DRIVE FROM KATHMANDU TO BESISAHAR 760M TO BHULBHULE (8 HOURS) We take a bus for the five-hour drive to the end of the road, either at Besi Sahar or a bit farther depending on the road conditions, where we stay overnight. At Bhulbhule.

DAY 04: BHULBHULE – BAHUNDANDA 1310M – JAGAT 1300M 1310M (7HRS)

After early breakfast, we hit the trail. We have about three hours of hot but pleasant walking; we are trekking in the typical Nepali middle hills now, and the scenery is gentle, muted.  After crossing a suspension bridge at Bhulbhule, the trail passes a cascading waterfall, and as we traverse the rice terraces, the views of Manaslu are magnificent.  Following a gentle incline we come to the village of Ngadi with its picturesque shops,From here we climb, steep and hot, to Bahundanda. Bahundanda literally means "hill of the Brahmins" and it is the most northerly Brahmin settlement in the Marsyangdi Valley, situated high up on a ridge. 

A steep trail descends from Bahundanda through green rice terraces before crossing a stream at the bottom of a small waterfall. It then climbs again and traverses the hillside high above the river before reaching the village of Hani Gaon. Ahead, the Marsyangdi valley forms a steep V-shape, and we follow the winding mountain path down through Syange and along the river for some distance. The trail then climbs steeply and the path is cut into the sheer cliff-face some 200-300m above the riverbed. Eventually, we descend to the atmospheric village of Jagat, situated on a shelf which juts into the precipitous Marsyangdi valley, where we spend the night at a Tibetan-run lodge.

DAY 05: JAGAT - DHARAPANI 1860M - 6HRS

We awake to a morning climb, head steeply up through a forest to a wonderful teahouse just before Chamje and marked by a magnificent waterfall on the opposite bank. Chamje is an atmospheric village of traditional-style teahouses, often packed with saddled local horses. After descending to the river and crossing a suspension bridge, we begin a steep climb to some small teahouses at Sattale. After chai, we continue on an undulating path above the river, climb the switch-backing path to the top of the hill, and are treated to the sight of Tal below us on a wide plain by the river. Though it is enclosed by cliffs, the level area is reassuring after the slightly harrowing mountain paths on which we have just traveled. Beyond Tal and the checkpost, the valley narrows and the path becomes high and winding, and in several areas is actually hewn from the rock. Beyond the small village of Karte, there is a bit more exposed trail walking before the path drops again to the river. We cross a suspension bridge and climb the short distance to the stone kani marking the entrance to Dharapani

Day 06: Dharapani to Chame (2,710m/8,891ft): 5 - 6 hours

Today we negotiate a few steep, forested ridges along with several landslides on route to Chame. We should not forget to look up though, as we will be greeted with remarkable views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV (7,525m). We also come across small hot springs which will be a sweet respite from the tiring trek and help us relax for a while. Chame is the headquarters of Manang District in the Gandaki Zone of northern Nepal Overnight in Chame. Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 07: Chame to Pisang (3,300m/10824ft): 5 - 6 hours

Today the trail continues up and down, passing several rivers and sparsely populated settlements. We walk through a steep and narrow valley to have our first view of Paungda Danda rock face, a dramatic curved rock face rising 1500 m from the river. From here, we also gain excellent views of Annapurna 2 to the south and Pisang Peak to the northeast. We descend to the Manang Valley floor enjoying the captivating landscape. Overnight in Pisang Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 08:  Pisang to Manang (3,500m/11,482ft): 6 - 7 hours

From Pisang there are two routes to Manang. We choose the one which passes through Upper Pisang via Geru as it guarantees outstanding views of Mt. Annapurna, Pisang Peak, and others. As we near Manang, the climate becomes colder and drier. However, a short visit to Barge Monastery, the biggest monastery in the Manang District, should cheer us up. Overnight in Manang. Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 09: Manang to Khangsar (3745m/12286ft): 2-3 hours

After breakfast our trek continues up to the village of Khangsar. As we walk ahead, the trail cuts down through a gorge and the Tilicho Peak can be spotted shrouded in clouds far above.  We get to appreciate the natural beauty of the Annapurna range all along the way. We also pass through small scenic settlements and the Tore monastery and get to enjoy the breathtaking Khangsar River and the grand barrier before reaching Khangsar. Overnight in Khangsar. Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 10: Khangsar to Tilicho Base Camp (4140m/13,583ft): 5-6 hours

As we begin the trek from Kangsar to Tilicho Lake Base Camp, we come across wide grassy fields and, after making a slight climb up a small hill, witness the glorious views of the entire valley. After trudging down a steep inclination, you now enter the Tilicho Base Camp. Camping is the only option as there are not many lodges out here. Overnight at Tilicho Base Camp. Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 11: Visit Tilicho Lake (4,949m/16,138 ft) then trek back to base camp: 5-6 hours

After the initial tough ascent, our trail traverses onto a moraine and then cuts along the side of the mountain. However, the spectacular views of Tilicho, Nilgiri, Khangsar and Muktinath peaks are always close by to cheer us up. Upon reaching Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world, we get to admire its tranquil beauty. Sometimes reflections of the surrounding peaks are seen on its turquoise waters, at other times the lake remains frozen. We take a break beside the calm waters and soak-in the astounding views before heading back to the base camp. Overnight in Tilicho Base Camp. Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 12:  Tilicho Base Camp to Yak Kharka (4040m/13,020ft): 4-5 hours

When returning from the Tilicho Base Camp, the trail leads out of the Marsyangdi valley and the abrupt change in surroundings can be noticed as the trees are left behind and replaced with more alpine vegetation. Our trail continues through the ruins of the old Khangsar village, until we cross a log bridge over the river between Gumsang and Yak Kharka. The typical Himalayan village of Yak Kharka is an accolade to its name, as lots of yaks can be seen grazing and standing around. From here we also get breathtaking views of Annapurna III. Overnight in Yak Kharka. Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 13: Yak kharka to Thorang Phedi: (4420m/14501ft): 3-4 hours

It is an uphill walk to Thorang Phedi. After walking for some time, we cross a suspension bridge and reach Ledar village. We ascend further and pass through towering cliffs before reaching Thorang Phedi, the last village before Thorong La pass.  On this trip we are rewarded with one of the best views of Mt. Gundang, Mt. Syagang, Thorung Peak and Mt. Khatungkan. The word Phedi in Nepalese is referred to as the foot of a mountain. Overnight in Thorang Phedi. Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 14: Thorong Phedi to Muktinath (3,800m/12,467ft) via Thorong La pass (5416m/17764ft): 7 - 8 hours

Crossing Thorong La pass, one of the highest passes in the world, will be our ultimate objective today. We will be crossing the pass from east to west (Manang to Muktinath) which is the easiest and safest direction. We get up around three in the morning and walk up the mountain. When we finally make it to the top, we realize that our journey was worth it. We can take a few photos before heading to Muktinath Valley at the foot of the Thorong La pass. Overnight in Muktinath. Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 15: Muktinath to Jomsom (2,715m/8,910ft): 5-6 hours

Muktinath, an ultimate destination for Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims, is a beautiful place. We visit the Muktinath Temple before embarking on the trek ahead. There are water spouts where fresh water pours out channeled from the streams above the temple. As the trail extends we can enjoy the magnificent views of Mt. Dhaulagiri. You can even buy a fossilized mollusk, called ‘Shaligram’ as a memento. We move ahead among meadows, cross streams and hills over to Kagbeni, a village laden with chortens (memorial stupas) and a small monastery. Continue the trek after a lunch break at Kagbeni and over to Jomsom on the Kali Gandaki Valley as the trail cuts through windy areas. Overnight in Jomsom. Included meals:Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 16: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara (823m/2,700ft): 30mins

We fly to Pokhara after breakfast. The flight itself is spectacular; we fly while looking at views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges and over the deepest gorge in the world. The warmer climate in Pokhara will definitely make us feel better. We can take a boat ride in the serene waters of the lake with the reflection of the Fishtail Mountain on its waters. We could also visit the Davis falls. In the evening, we can stroll around the lakeside area and buy souvenirs for loved ones. Overnight in Pokhara. Included meals:Breakfast

Day 17: Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu: 30mins

Another short flight takes you back to Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. We can take a rest in our hotel room and spend the rest of the day in leisure. In the evening, there will be a farewell dinner hosted by Everest Expeditions Nepal to celebrate the successful completion of our journey. Overnight in Kathmandu. Included meals:Breakfast Dinner

Day 18: Final departure

Our representative will take us to Tribhuwan International Airport for our next flight, approximately 3 hours earlier than the scheduled time.