Tilicho Lake Trek, 12 Days

Tilicho Lake Trek Best Season

The best season for Tilicho Lake is pre-monsoon (March to April) and post-monsoon (October to November). March to May is relatively favourable for the trail because the weather is stable, and the red rhododendron blossoms add a pinch of colour to the trail.

This period is characterized by good weather and beautiful mountain scenery. The post-monsoon season, that is, the months from September to early November, is perfect for trekking as the weather is quite cool and clear.

The tropical monsoon rains would have washed the dust, and the land would have appeared very green. The best time to hike is during days when there is no snow.

Nevertheless, the winter season (December to February) is very cold, and the probability of snow is high. Hence, the trek might be very difficult and, at times, unavailable.

The rainy season or summer Tilicho Lake Trek, particularly the monsoon from June up to the early part of August, is also advisable because the trails become slippery, and untoward incidents such as landslides also occur frequently.

Manang Tilicho Lake Trekking Experience

It is recommended for professional trekking lovers and those who already have trekking experiences at high altitudes. Due to the height and steepness of the trail coupled with the elevation, it is relatively hard for first-time climbers to climb.

Prior experience in multi-day trekking, particularly in steep rocky terrains, and the ability to cope with the consequences of spending many hours in trekking is very important. Pre-treks at a higher altitude of 3,000m are advised since they assist one in learning how the body will respond to low oxygen levels.

Tilicho Lake Weather

The Tilicho Lake weather can change drastically depending on the altitude and season. Nights at the Tilicho Base Camp during spring and autumn range between 10-20°C and about 0°C.

At higher altitudes, the climate is relatively colder. Further, during the times you are at Tilicho Lake trekking, temperatures may be extremely freezing during spring and autumn.

The temperature, especially during winter, often drops as low as -20°C or even lower, particularly on high grounds. The winter season is accompanied by frequent snowfall, making the trek even more challenging.

In contrast, the monsoon or summer season is characterized by heavy rain, making the trail very wet and humid. This increases the chances of landslides.

Tilicho Lake Trek Difficulty

The Tilicho Lake Trek can be considered a moderate or difficult trek as the trek involves crossing or reaching some high-altitude terrains. Trekkers need to be ready to walk for many hours on quite steep and rocky terrains on such a high Tilicho Lake elevation.

Wetness and slippery terrains, and sometimes very sunny, also increase the difficulty of the trek. This trail is characterized by several grips and dips, which prove to be rather intensive at times.

In addition, you will be rewarded with the best views of the green valleys, the alpine pastures, and the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Massifs. Because of this, this particular trek is ideal for people who have good physical health and prior trekking experience.

You can even do an Annapurna circuit with the Tilicho Lake trek if you want to extend your trek or have enough gas in your tank.

Roads on the Trek and How to Avoid

The Tilicho Lake Trek is a section of the larger Annapurna Circuit area that has experienced a lot of recent road development. These roads, especially on the lower parts of the circuits, can downplay the trekking experience due to increased vehicle movement and the resultant dust.

They mainly exist between Besisahar and Manang for the eastern part and from Muktinath up to Jomsom and Beni for the western part.

To avoid using such roads whilst trekking and maintain the real hiking experience, it is recommendable to use other trails that are a little off the principal roads.

To avoid the motorable roads from Dhikur/Dhukure Pokhari to Mungi, we have prepared an itinerary via Upper Pisang instead of Lower Pisang on the 5th day of Tilicho Lake.

Trip Grade: Fitness Level, Medical, and Health

Tilicho Lake Trek is classified as a strenuous trek, mostly due to the number of days of the journey and the altitude. Trekkers should thus be able to walk for about 6-8 hours a day for several days on a stretch, much of this on rough terrains.

For this, you need to have a good cardiovascular state, well-developed leg muscles, and sufficient stamina. Fitness is preferred, provided by regular exercise, cardio workouts, strength training, and hiking. For example, at least a few months before the trek.

Special Training for Manang Tilicho Lake Trek

In particular, you do not need any special training for the Manang Tilicho Lake trek. However, you can do some exercise to build cardiovascular endurance, strength, and stamina.

It’s necessary to engage in regular physical activity, including running, cycling, and swimming, to improve cardiovascular fitness. Strength training, particularly for the legs, back, and core, helps build the muscles needed for trekking.

Additionally, mental preparation is important, as long treks can be mentally taxing. Yoga and breathing exercises can enhance mental resilience and improve lung capacity, which is beneficial for high-altitude trekking.

Altitude Sickness During Tilicho Lake Trek Nepal

The primary risk in Tilicho Lake Trek is altitude sickness or acute mountain sickness (AMS), as the trek’s highest point reaches approximately 5,000 meters. To minimize its effects, it is advised to get acclimatized to it by observing gradual ascent and having rest days.

One can also avoid alcohol and sleeping pills, drink lots of water, have small and frequent meals, and get plenty of exercise. Trekkers should be familiar with the symptoms of AMS, so if it were to happen, then its effects would be managed accordingly.

Emergency and Evacuation on Tilicho Lake

In the Tilicho Lake Trek situation, emergency evacuation may be necessary, particularly due to altitude sickness, injuries, and other sicknesses.

There are no signs of human habitation within the whole distance of the trek, and medical facilities are rare. Therefore, a hospital may be quite a few hours away.

Trekkers must trek with an accompanying competent guide who has first aid training and the measures to be taken in case of emergencies. Preventive measures like having travel insurance with heli-skiing and emergency evacuations would be useful.

Tilicho Lake Trek Cost

Tilicho Lake Trek cost is typically determined by the number of days spent trekking and the kind of services offered to the trekkers. Additionally, the level of accommodation also determines the overall trek’s cost.

In general, a basic Tilicho Lake Trek package offered by Himalayan Masters costs $995 per person. The package includes permits, food, tents, guides and porters, and transfers to and from the start and finish of the trip.

This Tilicho Lake Trek cost includes most of the costs that you are likely to factor into during the trek, thus making your experience a smooth one.

Additional expenses include local accommodation based on the availability of better hotels and another form of transport, extra trips around the area, and the hire of trekking gear if the client has none.

Additional Expenses

Additional expenses include local accommodation based on the availability of better hotels and another form of transport. Furthermore, extra trips around the area and hiring trekking gear if the client has none could add up to the budget.

Snacks for the trek, drink items, buying souvenirs, or extending the trip can cost additional expenses. The extra charge for a hot shower, Wi-Fi, hot water, charging electronics, etc., also comes under additional expenses.

Therefore, you can expect to spend $15-$20 per day on the Tilicho Lake Trek cost.

Insurance for Tilicho Lake Nepal

Tilicho Lake Trek involves one being in areas that are sometimes unreachable and remote. Therefore, travel insurance is critical to every trekker in Nepal.

Health insurance is a must; travel insurance that includes medical, evacuation by helicopter, cancellation of the trip, and loss or theft of personal property is also advisable.

ATM on the Tilicho Lake Nepal Trek Routes

Although there is an ATM service in Chame, it is not always reliable. So, we recommend that you carry enough cash for the trek. You can find many ATM booths in Kathmandu and up to Besisahar. Moreover, there is an additional 3.5% charge every time you pay with a MasterCard or Visa card. In that case, also, it would be wise to get money exchanged or withdrawn in cash.

Money Exchange on Tilicho Lake Trek Route

As said before, to avoid any extra charge while making payment, you can get your money exchanged in any authorized money exchange booth or at the bank. You can exchange your money into Nepali currency here in Kathmandu, Besisahar, or in Chame, too.

To exchange money, you will need to submit a copy of your passport and visa ticket.

Tilicho Lake Trek Permits

You will need to acquire the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card for Tilicho Lake Trek. ACAP is required for all trekkers entering the Annapurna region, and TIMS cards are required to secure their safety and security by keeping a record of their whereabouts.

You can issue these permits in Kathmandu or Pokhara. But you need not worry about them, as we will arrange them for you and include them in the trip package itself.

It will be wise to have photocopies of the same and have the permits with you all the time during the trek, as many checkpoints will require you to produce them.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

• Cost for Nepali citizens: NPR 100 per person
• Cost for SAARC nationals: NPR 1,000 per person
• Cost for other foreign nationals: NPR 3,000 per person

Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card

• Cost for Nepali citizens: No TIMS card is required.
• Cost for SAARC nationals: NPR 600 per person for group trekkers, NPR 1,000 per person for individual trekkers
• Cost for other foreign nationals: NPR 1,000 per person for group trekkers, NPR

Packing List for Trekking Tilicho Lake

Clothing

• Base Layers (Moisture-wicking tops and bottoms)
• Insulation (Fleece jacket or vest, Insulated jacket)
• Waterproof and Windproof Jacket with hood
• Waterproof and Windproof Pants (optional)
• Sun Hat
• Warm Beanie or Hat
• Buff or Scarf
• Lightweight Gloves
• Warmer Gloves or Mittens
• Footwear
• Sturdy Trekking Boots (waterproof with ankle support)
• Moisture-wicking Socks (synthetic or wool)
• Gaiters (optional for keeping dirt and snow out of boots)

Equipment

• Daypack (25-35 liters)
• Warm Sleeping Bag (rated for -10°C to -15°C)
• Adjustable Trekking Poles
• Water Bottles (minimum 2 litres capacity)
• Water Purification Tablets or Filter
• Sunglasses (with UV protection)
• Personal First Aid Kit (including altitude sickness medications)
• Blister Treatment Kit (moleskin, blister pads)
• Toiletries (biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitiser)
• Trekking Towel (quick-dry)
• Sunscreen and Lip Balm (high SPF)
• Power Bank or Solar Charger (for charging devices)
• Trekking Map and Guidebook (optional)

Miscellaneous

• Cash (Nepalese Rupees for expenses along the trek)
• Passport and Permits (ACAP, TIMS card, and other necessary permits)
• Travel Insurance (covering high-altitude trekking and evacuation)
• Snacks (energy bars, nuts, dried fruits)

Things to avoid while packing

• Heavy or bulky items
• Too many clothes
• Non-essential gadgets
• Large toiletries (like large shampoo bottles, soap, or toothpaste)
• Unnecessary food
• Too many shoes
• Jewellery and valuables

Accommodation and Food on the Tilicho Lake Itinerary

Meals & Accommodations While on the Tilicho Lake Trek, there is a limited number of teahouses that offer basic meals and lodging services.

Accommodation

The accommodation on the Tilicho Lake itinerary is at the teahouses. These teahouses have twin-sharing rooms with simple beds and communally used toilets and bathrooms just for the rooms. There could be limited or few facilities in such areas in terms of the standard of these amenities.

The teahouse’s owners are friendly and make visitors feel comfortable and relaxed, allowing them to rest after a tiring day of walking. They provide a warm blanket and a clean bed to sleep in.

The dining halls have a heating system, where you can dine and chat with your fellow trekkers. The amenities and services like hot shower, Wi-Fi, attached bathroom, etc., might be limited at higher altitudes.

You can expect to be sending about 5 to 8 dollars in accommodation per night. However, accommodation throughout the trek is included in the trip package itself.

Alpine Homes Manang, Manang Hotel and Lodge, Hotel Tilicho Manang, etc., are some of the Tilicho Base Camp hotels/teahouses en route.

Accommodation Challenges  

During peak trekking periods, travellers need to use dining spaces as overnight sleeping areas since there are insufficient lodges available. Both Tilicho Base Camp and Khangsar have only minimum accommodation services requiring advance booking. 

Foods

The teahouses offer various meals, and a local dish that includes most meals in Nepal is the dal bhat. Salads and fruits are also offered, in addition to pasta, pancakes, and omelettes, among other meals.

One is advised to consider that the higher one goes, the higher food prices will be because it is hard to transport foodstuff to such regions. Trekkers are encouraged to bring snack bars for these treks since they might get tired along the way.

Breakfast

• Porridge with milk, honey, or fruits
• Tibetan bread
• Pancakes
• Egg items
• Chapati
• Muesli or cornflakes
• Tea or coffee

Lunch

• Dal Bhat and veg and non-veg curry
• Fried rice
• Noodles
• Mo: Mo
• Chowmin
• Pizza
• Veg and non-veg soups

Dinner

• Dal Bhat and curry
• Thukpa
• Spaghetti
• Pizza
• Sherpa step
• Puddings
• Chocolate or sneaker roll

Electricity and Battery Recharge on Tilicho Lake Route

Almost all the teahouses in Tilicho Lake Trek have electricity. But that, too, can be erratic due to power outages, especially as you ascend the trek. Teahouses usually take a small amount of money to charge electronic devices.

To be sure and on the better side, you can carry a power bank and extra batteries. The improved Manang National Broadcasting line extends its electricity services up to Base Camp. Now trekkers can recharge their devices after the power supply. 

Water During the Nepal Tilicho Lake

The water contained in bottles can be bought; however, the price increases as height is gained. It is cheaper and cost-effective, plus environmentally friendly to use water purification tablets or a filtration system.

Water is very important to take; be very keen and ensure that you refill your bottles as often as you can.

Communication During Trekking to Tilicho Lake

The means of communication during trekking to Tilicho Lake are cellular networks and Wi-Fi. You can get a cellular network connection through Nepali SIMs (NTC and NCELL).

Almost all the teahouses on the route have Wi-Fi, but they charge an extra charge for it. If you want to be connected to the internet through the trek, you can buy a Nepali SIM in Kathmandu and use a cellular connection.

Safety and Security on Trek to Tilicho Lake

Nepal is generally safe for travellers, but it’s wise to stay updated on current conditions. While robbery during trekking is rare, it’s possible. You can store valuables at our office or your hotel.

Follow emergency procedures advised by your guide. Although natural disasters are uncommon, they can still occur. Altitude sickness is common at higher altitudes, so inform your guide if you experience any symptoms.

Tilicho Lake Trek Distance

Manang to Tilicho Lake Distance: 19.7 km/12.2 miles

Tilicho Lake from Kathmandu: Approximately 285 km (177 miles)

Besisahar to Chame Distance: 67.7 km (42 miles)

Besisahar to Manang Distance: 98 km (61 miles)

Pokhara to Manang Distance: 173 km (107.5 miles)

Pokhara to Tilicho Lake Distance: 192.7 km (120 miles)

Manang to Khangsar Distance: Approximately 10 km (6.2 miles)

Jomsom to Tilicho Lake Distance: 13 km (8 miles)

Muktinath to Tilicho Lake Distance: Approximately 13.2 km (8.2 miles)

Muktinath to Thorong La Pass to Tilicho Lake Distance: Approximately 26 km (16 miles)

Guide vs Solo Trekking Tilicho Lake

Trekking to Tilicho Lake can be completed independently or with a guide. If you are trekking alone, it is essential to have detailed instructions about the trek, including the route, food, accommodation, emergency contacts, weather, local customs, and more. Learning some Nepali phrases could also be beneficial.

Alternatively, if you opt for a guided trek, you won’t have to worry about organizing anything. Your experienced guide will take care of all the arrangements and will be your companion throughout the trek.

It’s important to remember that the Nepal government mandates hiring a licensed guide for trekkers in high mountainous regions.

Porter vs No Porter on Tilicho Lake Trekking

Considering a porter for your trek through Thorong La Pass at 5416 meters (17,769 ft) may be beneficial if you’re not accustomed to carrying a backpack weighing over 10 kg.

This challenging trek lasting about 8-9 hours can be made easier by hiring a porter, allowing you to fully enjoy the scenery.

While a porter can carry up to 26 kg, you will still need to carry a daypack containing essentials such as medicine, sunscreen, camera, water bottle, and snacks. If your load is not heavy, you can also consider sharing a porter with another trekker.

The cost of hiring a porter typically ranges from $20 to $25.

Tips on Hiring a Porter for Nepal Tilicho Lake

• Please make sure not to pack too much. We offer a duffle bag that is specifically created to make it easier for the porter.
• Please make sure not to pack too much. We offer a duffle bag that is specifically created to make it easier for the porter.
• The porters will move more quickly than you and will only reunite with you at the teahouse, where you will spend the night.
• When you employ the porter, you are not just providing him with a source of income but also ensuring the well-being of his entire family.

Tipping Culture for Guides and Porters

Your guide and porter work hard to make sure you have a pleasant and enjoyable experience. Although tipping is not required, it is a way to show appreciation for their excellent service.

The entire tip goes directly to them without any deductions. The standard tipping rate is 10% of your trip cost, but giving more is always appreciated.

Alternative Trekking Routes on Tilicho Lake Trek

Here are the other multiple trekking options that one can select concurrently with the Tilicho Lake trek or pick out as a whole different trek if you want to traverse other regions. Some of the popular alternatives include:

Nar Phu Valley Trek: This trek starts from Koto near Chame and takes you to the Nar and Phu valleys. These valleys are still relatively untouched and culturally rich. It has an amazing view of Annapurna and Kang La Pass, and we get to explore monasteries, which are quite cultural.

Poon Hill Trek: If one wishes to go for a relatively less strenuous trek and yet, be rewarded with the sight of the majestic series of the Himalayas at dawn, Poon Hill Trek would be an ideal choice too.

Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek: Another famous package is the Annapurna base camp and Tilicho Lake trek, which leads you to the Annapurna I base camp. An amazing combination of terraced fields, bamboo forests, and high pastures are major alluring features of this trek. Since it is possible to divert from Manang, it can be linked with the Tilicho Lake Trek.

Upper Mustang Trek: Upper Mustang, also known as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom”, is one of the driest and most culturally different areas in Nepal. The region’s main highlights are monasteries and caves, as well as the Tibetan-like culture of the people, which started from the town of Jomsom to Lo Manthang.

Extending Trip

Extending Tilicho Lake Trek

You can extend your standard Tilicho lake by a few days and add more visiting days around Manang village or trek instead of travelling in a vehicle from Manang to Jagat.

Further, you can customize and add other alternative treks to your original Tilicho Lake itinerary. You can do a short Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek. If you do so, the Tilicho Lake trekking can be extended to 18-20 days from the 12-day Tilicho Lake trek.

Tilicho Lake Trip Extension to National Parks

Extending your trip to National Parks could be the best escape to be relieved from a long, gruelling trek. Chitwan National Park and Bardiya National Park are two of the best options for observing wildlife and relaxing.

Chitwan National Park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can see a variety of flora and fauna. Seeing one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tigers, elephants, etc., in their own habitat is an experience of a lifetime.

Similarly, Bardiya National Park is a less visited destination, making it a perfect place if you are looking for wilderness. You might be able to see Royal Bengal Tigers in their natural habitat and a variety of bird species.

Alternative Routes and Transportation Options 

The route options for reaching Tilicho Lake depend on whether trekkers want easier paths or more challenging ones. The main trek follows the Annapurna Circuit, starting at Tilicho Lake and then continuing through Thorong La Pass before reaching Muktinath.  

The second option involves using the original journey through Manang. People seeking a more hiking experience can opt for the recently established route through Mustang. Travel options to start the trek exist through private jeep service and public bus transportation from Kathmandu to Besisahar. 

Trekkers must continue their journey by boarding another jeep from Jagat to start their official trekking experience. At the end of their Mesokanto Pass journey leading to Jomsom travelers can take an instant flight back to Pokhara to substantially shorten their travel period. 

How do you reach Tilicho Lake on a bike?  

Adventure travelers can reach Tilicho Lake through riding from the Mustang region. Travelers must bike off-road from Jomsom to Mesokanto Pass before finishing the journey through a short trek to the Tilicho lake.  

Bikers who desire challenging journeys are converting to this route as a preferred adventure option. 

Travellers need to prepare themselves by securing necessary items like fuel and backup components combined with additional protective apparel when confronting harsh climate conditions for the demanding bicycle expedition. 

How Long is the Tilicho Lake Trek?  

The Tilicho Lake Trek leads hikers towards world-renowned Tilicho Lake. It is among the highest lakes on Earth inside Nepal’s Manang district. The trekking duration has different ranges depending on which starting point and route combination the travellers select.  

The trek spans 10 to 14 days when combining the Annapurna Circuit but amounts to 6 to 7 days for those who begin at Manang. Traveling on Jomsom–Thini route lets you finish the round-trip trek in three days. 

Filming & Adventure Popularity 

Professional filmmakers and adventurous photographers commonly choose Tilicho Lake for their movies and creative shots. Multiple documentaries and travel vlogs feature the blue lake, which is kept in frame by snowy mountain peaks. 

Adventurers and content creators discover Tilicho Lake attractive because of its pristine conditions alongside demanding paths and multiple high passes and harsh altitudes.  

The Nilgiri Himal, Namkhu Lekh, Dhumba Lake, and Hyarzhu Viewpoint provide perfect backdrops for photography and videography. The area provides an ideal location for wildlife filmmakers who want to document rare wildlife species, particularly the elusive snow leopard. 

Routes to Tilicho Lake 

Before, trekkers managed their journey to Tilicho Lake through Khangsar and Tilicho Base Camp from Manang, following the traditional path. 

The Mesokanto La Pass (5,120m) stands as the highest point on this trek since it has no hotel or lodge facilities at this elevation. Tilicho Lake visitors need to carry their entire supply of food plus necessary sleeping materials.

Tourists now have another route available starting from Jomsom to Thini to Tilicho which includes taking two hours by car followed by a six-hour walk to Mesokanto Pass. 

Travellers need to spend one hour strolling from their starting point toward the lake. Recently this alternative trekking path has attracted more visitors because it provides both lesser crowds and shorter distances.  

Safety issues On Tilicho Lake Trek  

Travellers on the route to Tilicho Lake need to consider altitude sickness risks since they will cross both high elevations and harsh weather zones. Deaths from altitude sickness in Manang and Mustang have risen throughout the recent period. 

People who trek need to properly adjust their bodies to higher altitudes while maintaining hydration levels since they should drop their elevation immediately whenever they encounter critical symptoms. 

Among those who cross the Thorong La Pass route some individuals also the medicinal herb Yarsagumba during their journey. The legal trading of Yarshaghumba is only for local residents. 

Tilicho Trek Avalanche Zone

Tilicho Lake is a high-risk avalanche zone. The 22 Ghumti (22 corners) of Tilicho is the one of the most avalanche prone zone in the whole trek. The route has gravelled loose rocks during the spring and autumn season.

But during the winter season the route is covered with snow which creates a high risk of avalanche. Also, the route is really inclined so one must avoid trekking in this region in winter.

How to book Tilicho Lake Trek

You can send us a message or email to book trekking to Tilicho Lake with us. You can also contact us through our trip page by clicking on the “Book Now” button, making a direct phone call, or visiting the office if you are in Nepal.

Documents for Booking Trek

• Emergency contact details
• A copy of the passport
• A copy of the flight ticket
• 2 passport sized photos
• A copy of travel insurance (optional)

How can I book a trek to Tilicho Lake trip at the last minute?

Last-minute booking for a trek to Tilicho Lake is viable. Contact us through WhatsApp, phone call, email, or by visiting our office. You can also book a trip at the last minute through our website.

However, you need to contact us at least one day before the trek and make full payment for the trip.

Why Choose Himalayan Masters?

Booking your Tilicho Lake Trek with Himalayan Masters gives you flexibility in booking as well as in customizing the trek. You will be trekking with one of the best guides, assisted by friendly and experienced porters if you are trekking with us.

We ensure that your journey is going to be a memorable and successful one.

Cancellation and Postpone Policy

Once you have confirmed your trek with us, the amount paid is non-refundable. However, you are welcome to visit Nepal at any time and go on a trek with us.

Feedback/Review

Please leave a review after you have completed the trek. Your suggestion helps us in improving the service we provide.