Challenging

Tilicho Lake

Annapurna Region, Nepal

Duration

15 Days

Max Altitude

4,919m

Group Size

2-8 people

Best Season

Apr-May, Sep-Oct

Overview

At 4,919m, Tilicho is one of the highest lakes in the world - a place of absolute silence and almost otherworldly beauty. The trek follows the Annapurna Circuit's lower section before branching into remote side valleys few trekkers ever reach. This is for those who want the extraordinary.

Trek Highlights

Tilicho Lake - one of the world's highest lakes at 4,919m, turquoise and sacred
Near-total solitude compared to any main Annapurna route
Dramatic high-altitude terrain: moraines, glacial valleys, and snow fields
Expert high-altitude guides with emergency oxygen and first-aid certification
Manang Valley - one of the most isolated and culturally intact communities in Nepal
Optional Thorong La Pass extension for those who want to go even further

Day-by-Day Itinerary

01Pokhara to Besisahar to Chame

Altitude: 2,710m

Day 1-3 — Pokhara to Besisahar to Chame

02Chame to Pisang to Manang

Altitude: 3,500m

Day 4-5 — Chame to Pisang to Manang

03Acclimatisation hike above Manang

Day 6 — Acclimatisation hike above Manang

04Manang to Shree Kharka

Altitude: 3,870m

Day 7 — Manang to Shree Kharka

05Shree Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp

Altitude: 4,200m

Day 8 — Shree Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp

06Tilicho Base Camp to Tilicho Lake

Altitude: 4,919m

Day 9 — Tilicho Base Camp to Tilicho Lake

07Return via Thorong La or retrace to Pokhara

Day 10-15 — Return via Thorong La or retrace to Pokhara

What is Included

All accommodation throughout

All meals

Senior licensed guide with high-altitude experience

Two porters

All required permits

Emergency oxygen supply

Evacuation insurance

Frequently Asked Questions

How high is Tilicho Lake and is it one of the world's highest?

Tilicho Lake sits at 4,919m (16,138 ft) above sea level, making it one of the highest lakes in the world. At this altitude, the lake is often partially frozen and surrounded by snow-covered moraines, giving it an almost otherworldly appearance. The final ascent from Base Camp (4,200m) to the lake is a 3-4 hour glacial crossing.

How difficult is the Tilicho Lake trek?

Tilicho is our most challenging standard trek, rated Challenging. The combination of sustained high altitude (several nights above 4,000m), remote terrain with limited rescue access, and the final glacial ascent require prior high-altitude experience (above 4,000m recommended) and excellent physical fitness. Our guides carry emergency oxygen on this route.

What is the best time to trek to Tilicho Lake?

April-May and September-October are the only reliable windows. The lake and approach trail are typically buried in deep snow from November to March, and the monsoon rains (June-August) make the side-valley approach to Tilicho extremely hazardous. We run a maximum of 15 groups per year to this destination to preserve the wilderness experience.

How much does the Tilicho Lake trek cost?

Our 15-day Tilicho Lake package is $1,899 per person, fully inclusive - all accommodation, all meals, senior licensed guide with high-altitude certification, two porters, all permits, emergency oxygen supply, and full evacuation insurance. Group size is capped at 8 for safety and quality.

Can I extend the Tilicho Lake trek to include Thorong La Pass?

Yes - our Tilicho Lake Extended itinerary continues from Manang over Thorong La Pass (5,416m) and down to Muktinath, completing the Annapurna Circuit. This adds 4-5 days and is available for fit, experienced trekkers. Contact us for the combined Tilicho plus Circuit package.

Trekker Reviews

Lars A. - Sweden

2024-10-08

Tilicho Lake is the most remote and stunning place I have ever been. Standing at 4,919m looking at a perfectly turquoise lake surrounded by glaciers, completely alone - I have no words for it. Annapurna Trails planned every detail including the acclimatisation rest days that made the altitude manageable.

Natalia R. - Poland

2025-05-02

Our guide Karma had done this route 40 plus times but still pointed out new things every day. The emergency oxygen kit gave us huge peace of mind at altitude. Genuinely a once-in-a-lifetime trek.

Benjamin K. - South Africa

2024-09-25

I have done Kilimanjaro and Aconcagua base camp but Tilicho felt more remote and more rewarding than either. The Manang culture section is incredible. Worth every cent and then some.

Package Price

$1,899

per person, all permits included

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Quick Facts

Start Point: Besisahar, Nepal
Duration: 15 Days
Altitude: 4,919m
Difficulty: Challenging
Group Size: 2-8 people
Best Season: Apr-May, Sep-Oct