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Tilicho Lake Trek

Trek to Tilicho Lake — one of the highest lakes in the world at 4,919m. Combined with the Annapurna Circuit, this challenging side trek rewards with pristine glacial scenery.

15 Days
4919m Max
Challenging

From

$1099

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4.8(98 reviews)
Besisahar to Jomsom

About This Trek

The Tilicho Lake Trek is one of the most rewarding and authentic trekking experiences in the Annapurna Region of Nepal. This 15-day journey takes you through some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Himalayas, reaching a maximum altitude of 4919m.

Trek to Tilicho Lake — one of the highest lakes in the world at 4,919m. Combined with the Annapurna Circuit, this challenging side trek rewards with pristine glacial scenery.

Throughout the trek, you'll experience the rich culture and warm hospitality of the local communities. The trail passes through dramatic glacial valleys, high-altitude deserts, and pristine alpine environments. Our experienced guides ensure your safety and comfort while sharing their deep knowledge of the region's history, flora, and fauna.

This trek is rated as "Challenging" and is designed for experienced trekkers seeking a demanding adventure with significant altitude gains and remote terrain.

Duration15 Days
Max Altitude4919m
DifficultyChallenging
Group Size2-12

Trek Highlights

Tilicho Lake at 4,919m — one of highest lakes

Combine with Annapurna Circuit

Dramatic glacial landscapes

Remote and pristine environment

Thorong La Pass crossing

Manang Valley exploration

Incredible mountain reflections

Challenging and rewarding experience

Detailed Itinerary

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport. Transfer to hotel. Welcome dinner and trek briefing with your guide. Explore Thamel district if time permits.

1400m
8.1km approx.

Travel to the trek starting point. Depending on the route, this may involve a scenic flight or a drive through beautiful Nepalese countryside. Brief orientation walk in the afternoon.

2356m
13.3km approx.

Trek through lush valleys, suspension bridges, and terraced hillsides. Approximate walking time: 7 hours.

2999m
9.3km approx.

Trek through beautiful alpine forests and traditional villages. Approximate walking time: 5 hours.

3368m
16.6km approx.

Rest day for proper acclimatization. Optional short hike to a nearby viewpoint for stunning views. This day is crucial for adapting to the altitude and ensuring your safety for the higher sections ahead.

3701m
15.9km approx.

Trek through dramatic high-altitude terrain with stunning mountain panoramas. Approximate walking time: 6 hours.

4012m
15.5km approx.

Early morning start to reach the highest point of the trek at 4307m. Breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. This is the highlight of your Tilicho Lake Trek. Descend to a lower camp for the night.

4919m
9.9km approx.

Rest day for proper acclimatization. Optional short hike to a nearby viewpoint for stunning views. This day is crucial for adapting to the altitude and ensuring your safety for the higher sections ahead.

4591m
17.3km approx.

Trek through dramatic high-altitude terrain with stunning mountain panoramas. Approximate walking time: 6 hours.

4865m
9.1km approx.

Trek through dramatic high-altitude terrain with stunning mountain panoramas. Approximate walking time: 7 hours.

4314m
8.2km approx.

Trek through beautiful alpine forests and traditional villages. Approximate walking time: 6 hours.

3853m
12.5km approx.

Trek through beautiful alpine forests and traditional villages. Approximate walking time: 5 hours.

3466m
14.5km approx.

Trek through beautiful alpine forests and traditional villages. Approximate walking time: 6 hours.

3120m
10.6km approx.

Final day of trekking. Descend through forests and villages. Celebration dinner with the trekking team in the evening.

2323m
14.8km approx.

Return to Kathmandu by flight or vehicle. Free time for shopping and sightseeing. Farewell dinner with the team to celebrate your achievement.

1400m
14.3km approx.

What's Included

Included

  • Airport & hotel pickup/drop-off
  • All ground transportation
  • Experienced English-speaking trekking guide
  • Porter service (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
  • Teahouse & camping accommodation
  • Three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • All necessary permits and entry fees
  • First aid kit and oximeter
  • Sleeping bag (if required)
  • Welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu
  • Trek completion certificate
  • Government taxes and service charges

Not Included

  • International airfare
  • Nepal entry visa fees
  • Travel insurance (mandatory)
  • Personal trekking gear and clothing
  • Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, etc.)
  • Tips for guides and porters
  • Alcoholic and bottled beverages
  • Hot showers and device charging (where available)
  • Emergency evacuation costs (covered by insurance)
  • Any costs arising from itinerary changes due to weather or health

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this trek.

The Tilicho Lake Trek is rated as "Challenging". This is a demanding trek that requires excellent physical fitness and previous high-altitude trekking experience. You should be able to trek 6-8 hours daily on rough terrain. We strongly recommend a training program starting at least 3 months before departure.
The best seasons for the Tilicho Lake Trek are Spring (Apr-May), Autumn (Sep-Oct). During these periods, you can expect stable weather, clear skies, and excellent mountain views. The autumn season (September-November) typically offers the clearest visibility, while spring (March-May) brings beautiful rhododendron blooms. Monsoon (June-August) and winter (December-February) are generally not recommended due to heavy rainfall and extreme cold respectively.
The trek price of $1099 per person includes airport/hotel transfers, all ground transportation, experienced English-speaking guide, porters (1 per 2 trekkers), all accommodation during the trek, three meals per day, necessary permits and entry fees, first aid kit, and a comprehensive pre-trek briefing. Government taxes and service charges are also included.
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for this trek. Your policy must cover emergency helicopter evacuation up to $50,000, trek-related accidents, trip cancellation, and medical treatment at altitudes up to 4919m. We can recommend reputable insurance providers that cater specifically to high-altitude trekking.
We recommend starting your training at least 8-12 weeks before the trek. Focus on cardiovascular fitness (running, cycling, swimming), leg strength exercises (squats, lunges, stair climbing), and practice hikes with a loaded backpack. Try to include some uphill walking to simulate trail conditions. Yoga and stretching are also beneficial for flexibility and mental preparation.
The Tilicho Lake Trek reaches a maximum altitude of 4919m. Our itinerary is carefully designed with proper acclimatization days built in. We follow the "climb high, sleep low" principle. Our guides are trained in recognizing symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and carry pulse oximeters and first aid kits. We also have contingency evacuation plans. Staying well-hydrated, walking at a steady pace, and avoiding alcohol at high altitudes are key prevention strategies.