Trip Overview

Escape from the shell of your small tread and affairs for a while those mysterious paths of the spirit that lead nowhere and everywhere. Then you will know heavenliness . Such is the essence of the  Tilicho's.Picture this immense amphitheater hung about with glaciers,buttressed by massive walls of rock and plastered with snowfields that erupt from a basin of old moraines and raunchy streams..

With the venerated Lake of Tilicho , Tilicho Lake Trek takes you through Ancient Jomsom and crossing Thorong La at 5,416m presents a wonderful test more for the mind than the body. Tilicho Lake which is claimed to be the highest lake in the world at an altitude of (4,949m) is a well-known place for pilgrimages. It is one of the finest trekking routes in the Annapurna region and easy, compared to Treks in Everest and Kanchenjunga region. This trek displays a scenic view of much of the eastern side of the epic world-famous Annapurna circuit with sublime natural beauty, incredible view of breath-taking Himalayas, lush green hills, wide meadows, and traditional villages of the Buddhist community , cultural and traditional values, stunning waterfalls and running clean water streams, and attractive floras and faunas.The trek to the highest lake in the world is full is ideal for nature lovers who seek peace in the lap of the Himalayas but do not mind a little tough walking.

Tilicho Lake trekking is one of the trendiest trips for every turn you make is a bounty ; a visual excellence. Tilicho Lake trek collects the glacial melt of the full northern slopes of Annapurna and Thorang Peak.Tilicho Lake is one of those places that have had mythic connotations.  Hindu pilgrimage all around the world gathered around the lake and convinced that it is a holy spot mentioned in the Ramayana - a sacred book of the Hindus.With the glorious skyline showing off silver mountains that glitters on a lovely weather day and the diverse ethnic communities we meet up on our way give us idea of the world we know and also of the world we are not familiar with. The legendary trekking route starts  from Chamje from where we continue to follow the trails of Marsayangdi  leading to villages of Tal, Chame, Pisang, Manang, Khangsar and finally Tilicho Lake. With every new destination, the landscape  and climate are bound to change. The trail then takes us to the tranquil Tilicho lake sitting peacefully amid bare hills behind which the snowy peaks glitter.

Our trip begins with a journey from Kathmandu to Besisahar.We hike from Besisahar while the path offers  fantastic views of gigantic peaks including Mt. Annapurna (8,091m) – world's 10th highest mountain , Mt Dhaulagiri, (8,167m)-world's 7th highest, Manaslu,( 8,163m)- world's 8th highest, and Machhapuchhre at ( 6,993m ). On our way to Tilicho Lake, you get serene views of waterfalls and experience hiking across airy suspension bridges. But this route is a pretty tough trail.Walk at alpine altitudes and cross the Thorung La pass at 5,416m is quite a thrill. After finally ascending to Tilicho Lake, you can view this superb Lake right in front of your very eyes. After digesting the beauty of Tilicho Lake, we make a beeline for Muktinath Temple – a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists.The rocky trails, high hills and hiking through rivers tend to pose challenges. But the rewarding landscapes give meaningful joy to accept the geographical obstacles and trekkers will get the opportunity to explore exotic birds such as white capped river chat, brown dipper, white-breasted kingfisher, butterfly, barking deer, rhododendron forest and orchid flowers.

 Trekking in Manang valley featuring continuous view of the Annapurna range and trekking in Mustang district featuring a splendid view of the Dhaulagiri range are all engaging in their own moods. After enjoying the view of Dhaulagiri massif, as you head down to the windy town of Jomsom via Kagbeni , you will fly above the deepest gorge in the world, Kali Gandaki River to arrive in Pokhara. While heading up to Upper Tilicho Lake, you will pass several villages where you can haul up and learn about the culture and tradition of the local folks. Tilicho Lake Trekking, therefore, is an excellent chance to explore the Himalayan life in Nepal.Hence after reaching Tilicho Base Camp and then finally ascending Tilicho Lake, you can view this superb Lake right in front of your very eyes. After digesting the beauty of Tilicho Lake, we make a beeline for Muktinath Temple – a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists.Explore villages and stay in teahouses along the way. Make stops in Chame, Manang ,Pisang and Khangsar Village, before reaching Tilicho Base Camp. Then, pay out time admiring the Tilicho Lake, before retracing your steps back to Kathmandu.

No superlatives are sufficient to do justice to the seductive trails, sublime scenery and the fascinating culture of this magical terrain.

Itenerary

Your flight will land in Tribhuwan International Airport.Our satffs will be there to meet you outside the airport terminal. They will hold a display sign that reads your name. That will help you meet them better. They will also help you check in to your hotel . You can stroll down the street to get familiar with the neighborhood, have supper and go to bed.
In the morning, You will get briefing like the weather, difficulty, what you need to expect during this trip etc.This will also be a good time to bond with your guide and meet various members of this trip. On today’s sightseeing tour, numerous aesthetic temples like Swayambhunath , Boudhanath,Krishna Mandir, Hanuman Dhoka and museums in these places make the visit here rather wonderful. All of them are perfect representations of the architecture of Nepal in the medieval period.An orientation session for the trek, which commences the following day, will be organized in the evening.
You start your drive to Bhulbhule, the starting point of this trek early in the morning, . Following the Trishuli River for the first half of your drive and Marsyangdi River for the second half. You get to see some well-known mountain peaks from here, a lot of natural green landscapes surrounding the valley and the daily activities of the happy local folks. You arrive in Bhulbhule via Besi Sahar enjoying the view of lush hills and highway-side settlements. Overnight in Bhulbhule.
We take an hour’s public jeep to Vhamje from Bhulbhule and the start trek to Dharapani on a high road with the incredible view of high hills, waterfalls, gorge, snow-covered peaks, and scattered settlementsThe first part of the trail passes on a flat level along the bank of the Marshyangdi River. You can enjoy the sceneries and the local culture of the Gurung community. After lunch, the trail goes steeply upwards to Bahundanda which takes about 2 hours.You will cross the waterfall at Tal and continue walking uphill until you reach Dharapani. Overnight in Dharapani.
You will exit Dharapani and ascend to Bagarchhap after getting your permit checked. You will cross Marsyangdi River several times as you continue to hike the trails of Marsayangdi to reach Chame. Throughout the trail, you will be accompanied by the view of Annapurna II (7937m), Lamjung Himal (6983m), and Kangaru Himal (6981m.We l that goes downwards to Syange (1070m). On the way, you can have beautiful views of waterfalls making sounds as it strikes with stones. After that, we will cross an airy suspension bridge.We will have to climb up to Chyamje ,after we reach Jagat. Overnight at lodge/guesthouse.
With Lamjung himal sparkling in the morning sun, you set off for Pisang. You will enter a path filled with pine trees and continue to move forested alongside Marsyangdi river. The valley becomes extremely steep-sided as you follow the path to Bhratang (2950m) from this point. You then walk through a pine forest while the valley changes from a V-shape to a gentle U-shape, opening up a wonderful vista before you. You can see the east peak of Pisang Peak (6091m) as well as Annapurna II to the north-east. In the evening, you can visit the temple and monastery in Pisang that host a stunning view of Pisang Peak (6091m). Overnight in Pisang.
Beyond Pisang, the trail climbs a steep ridge that affords good views of the Manang valley and Tilicho peak (7145m.)You will ascend towards Ghyaru from where you will cross a Mani wall to arrive in Ngawal.Continue to walk through the alpine forest to reach Manang via Lophelling Monastery, Braka Monastery ,Sher Gompa,and Bodzo Gompa.After a short steep climb, you reach Manang. Manang is a surprisingly large village for this remote mountain region. Overnight in Manang.
Today you can spend the day exploring the outskirts of Manang. You can also hike up to the beautiful Gangapurna Lake from where an amazing panorama of the Annapurna range, Marsayangdi River valley,Gangapurna (7454m), and Tilicho Peak (7134m) can be seen. We also visit the ancient monasteries and the old village of Tenki while in Manang.. We bunk out overnight at our Lodge.
After enjoying an awesome day at Manang ,we will go by a path filled with pine trees that goes along the Khangsar River. Crossing the river, we will reach Khangsar village , a very old-styled Tibetan influenced village .You leave Manang to start walking on the trail to reach the village of Khangsar. As you walk onward, from the horizon Tilicho Peak (7134m) starts to appear .You will visit the local monastery sitting quietly in the lap of the Himalayas in Khangsar. Overnight in Khangsar.
As you leave Khangsar, you will come across wide pasturelands dotted with grazing yaks.We continue from a western pass on a large path, passing a Gompa (monastery). The route ahead goes on a recently constructed path up towards a high ridge.Continue along the new path, reach a high crest, and descend on switchbacks carved out through the screed slopes of the main valley. At its bottom is a brook. On the other side of the brrok is a building known as the Tilicho Base Camp at an elevation of 4,200m. Overnight at a guesthouse.
Today is the main day of our trekking. We will trek up to the enchanting Tilicho Lake. After having breakfast, we will hike to Tilicho Lake in the early morning, as the wind may interrupt us in case of delaying.After the tough climb, you will reach the mesmerizing Tilicho Lake, the highest lake in the world for its size.The descent is as tough as the ascent, so you must be careful while walking and must maintain the pace of your walk. After spending some joyful moments at the most charismatic Tilicho Lake, we will descend to the Tilicho base camp.Tonight we will bunk out by this lovely lake at our guesthouse.
Today’s trail will lead you out of Marsayangdi valley as you leave behind the trees and enter a rather sparsely vegetated area hereabouts. You will cross a long Mani wall and walk through meadows with grazing yaks to arrive at the temporary yak herders’ settlement in Yak Kharka(4000m). You will have a beautiful vista of the surrounding mountains like Tilicho Peak (7134m), Chulu (6584m),Khatungkang (6484m), and so on from Yak Kharka. Overnight in Yak Kharka.
Leaving Yak Kharka, you climb gradually to a ridge before descending to the headwaters of the Marshyangdi and crossing via a covered wooden bridge and will ascend towards Ledar. You will then walk through towering cliffs to reach Thorung Phedi. You’ll pass tiny teashops on your way to Thorung Phedi accompanied by the continuous view of the surrounding peaks. From Thorung Phedi, a close-up view of Thorung Peak (6144m), Syagang (6026m), Purbung Himal (6590), Khatungkang (6484m), and others can be observed. Overnight in Thorung Phedi.
Today’s trek will begin early in the morning as you will be crossing one of the highest passes in Nepal, Thorong La Pass (5416m), which connects Manang with Mustang.In order to reach Thorang La pass at about 9-10 am,we will start our journey in the early morning at about 4 am . As you will be required to walk on the moraines on a frozen path so the climb to Thorung La Pass is quite challenging . After reaching the top, we will be at the top of Thorang La pass marked by the chortens and prayer flags and also you can enjoy stunning views however, you will realize that your journey was worth it as the snow-capped mountains smile back at you.After this, it takes some 4 hours more to reach the holy place - Muktinath. Muktinath is a pilgrimage spot for both Hindus and Buddhists. It is believed that you can be free from all your pains and sorrows after you visit this so-called holy site. You can bathe under the 108 waterspouts around the temple. You can visit Jwala Mai Temple where you can observe natural spring and an everlasting flame fueled by natural gas. Overnight in Muktinath.
Early in the morning, you will visit Muktinath, one of the great religious sites of Hindus.Today is the last day of our trek on these beautiful mountains, we will move through the trail of apple orchards of Kagbeni to reach Jomsom. Jomsom is a strong windy little town in a cold valley.You will cross a concrete bridge over Kali Gandaki River to enter the windy town of Jomsom. You can get startling memorable views of Tilicho Mountain and all the beautiful wet hills. Overnight at lodge
After a hearty breakfast in Jomsom, you will take the morning flight to Pokhara.The strong breeze blows during the afternoon and frequent change of the weather prevents the flight landing and taking off in the afternoon. During the flights in the morning, the sky looks very clear which makes you able to enjoy the splendid views of beautiful Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges and through the deepest gorge in the world, Kali Gandaki River. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you will rest for few hours before heading on to explore the lake city. You can go for a boating in Phewa Lake under the reflection of Machhapuchhre (6993m). Overnight in Pokhara.
While driving from Pokhara to Kathmandu, we head up to different cities such as Damauli, Dumre, Mugling, and Kurintar . We climb up to Thankot from naubise, the gateway to Kathmandu and finally reach our hotel & a lovely soft warm bed. Later, you can visit the nearby market to shop for souvenirs to take back home.
This will be your final day in the glorious country of Nepal. We will drop you at Tribhuvan International Airport couple of hours before your scheduled flight with all the necessary travel documents. Meeting you has been a great honor and we pray for your Safe journey home and will reflect on the wonderful times we spent together. Bon Voyage!!! We hope to see you again someday…

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What is Included?

  • Airport pick up & drop-off by private car / van.
  • 02 nights accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast.
  • 01 night accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast
  • Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trek.
  • 14 nights accommodation (guest house) during the trek (mainly in twin sharing).
  • A local government licensed English speaking Guide during the trek.
  • The required number of staff and Porters to carry your luggage during the trek.
  • All necessary trek permit, ACAP Permits and entry fees.
  • Down Jacket, sleeping bag and duffel bag.
  • First aid medical kits.
  • Oxymeter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate.
  • Tilicho Trekking route map.
  • Surface transfer from and to Kathmandu.

What is Excluded?

  • Lunch and dinner whilst in Kathmandu.
  • Your travel insurance (compulsory).
  • International airfare and airport departure tax.
  • Alcoholic beverages, hot and cold drinks, laundry.
  • Personal trekking equipment.
  • Tips for trekking staff.
  • Any others expenses which are not mentioned on Price Includes section.
Trip Info
Trip Highlights:

  • Adventurous hike towards the highest lake in the world

  • Visit Boudhanath, one of the largest Buddhist shrines in the world

  • Stroll Upper Pisang for amazing views of Annapurna II and Annapurna III

  • Adventurous lodges trek in beautiful Annapurna region

  • Embark on several hikes through Manang, and tour its many bakeries

  • Incredible views of Mt.Annapurna I (8091m), Manaslu (8163m)and Dhaulagiri (8167m).

  • Cross the Thorung La pass at (5,416m)

  • Observe beautiful Manang village

  • Visit Ancient Buddhist Monasteries

  • Explore Ethnic culture which is influenced by Tibetan culture

TREK OVERVIEW

  • Trekking name: Tilicho lake trek

  • Durations days: 18 day

  • Altitude :5400m

  • Starting point:Kathmandu

  • Finishing point:Kathmandu

  • Trip Grade:Strenuous

  • Accommodation: Hotel and local lodges

  • Comfort: Teahouse/ Camping

  • Best time: Spring/Autumn

Equipment Checklist

RECOMMENDED TREKKING GEARS

Trekking without any necessary gear can be very harmful and won’t be easy. No one wants to get hurt in a remote and distant area where there’s no proper health care. So to make your trekking safer and as well as trouble-free, we have enlisted some of the necessary gears that you need to acknowledge before heading for trekking is the highlands.

NECESSARY TREKKING GEARS

Here are some of the trekking gears which will be there to assist us while climbing any kind of mountain trails weather be steep or narrow. These trekking gears are extremely useful and are handy so make sure you have it in your checking list.

  • Trekking sticks
  • Quick-drying pants and shorts. 
  • Rainwear (jacket and pants. 
  • Duffle bags
  • Jackets and thermal suit to outcast cold
  • Plastic boots and crampon

PERSONAL ITEMS

CLOTHING

It's very necessary to wear the outfit according to the situation and place. So here are some of the essential clothing gears required for trekking.

  • Warm, insulated jacket or vest
  • Fleece pants
  • Warm hat
  • Bandana (if necessary)
  • Boots or shoes suited to the terrain
  • Socks  (synthetic or wool)
  • Extra clothing (beyond the minimum expectation)
  • Spare plastics or Ziplock bags to distinct clean clothes and dirty clothes.
  • PERSONAL HYGIENE 

It’s very essential to take your own health and hygiene from the new weather condition. So here are some of the apparatus that might be needed while the trekking period.

  • Sunscreen 
  • Sunglasses 
  • Sanitation trowel (if no washroom)
  • Baby wipes 
  • Sun hat 
  • Toilet paper
  • Urinary products
  • Sanitizers and alcohol wipes

TECHNICAL MATERIALS

To capture moments, to withdraw money, and to trek in a very efficient manner here are some technical gears that should be packed.

  • Binoculars
  • Diaries and Journal to write experiences in words
  • Books/GPS navigators
  • Camera
  • Credit cards/ATM cards

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