Tilicho Lake Trek is one of the most adventurous and scenic treks in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Located at an altitude of about 4,919 meters, Tilicho is one of the highest lakes in the world. Surrounded by snow-covered peaks and rocky landscapes, it’s a stunning spot that feels peaceful and powerful at the same time.
This trek is perfect for those who want to explore the Himalayas beyond the usual routes. It’s often combined with the Annapurna Circuit, but some trekkers choose to do Tilicho as their main goal.
Starting the Trek
The journey begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar or directly to Chame or Manang, depending on road conditions. From there, you start walking through beautiful valleys, traditional villages, and forests filled with pine, oak, and rhododendrons.
As you go higher, the landscape starts to change. You leave the green forests behind and enter dry, rugged terrain. The air gets thinner, and the mountains feel closer with each step.
Exploring Manang
Before heading to Tilicho Lake, most trekkers spend a day or two in Manang. This is important for acclimatization because the altitude gets higher quickly after this point. Manang is a nice village with great mountain views, bakeries, and warm tea houses. You can also take short hikes to nearby viewpoints to help your body adjust to the height.
The Trail to Tilicho Lake
From Manang, the trail splits off from the main Annapurna Circuit. You pass through places like Shree Kharka and Tilicho Base Camp, where you stay overnight before heading to the lake.
The trek to Tilicho Lake from base camp is tough but amazing. The path climbs steadily through rocky slopes and loose stones. Since you’re trekking at high altitude, it’s important to go slowly and stay hydrated.
After about 3–4 hours of climbing, you reach the lake—and the view is breathtaking. Tilicho Lake sits in a bowl surrounded by huge mountains like Tilicho Peak and Annapurna III. The water is often icy blue, and the whole area feels calm and quiet.
It’s a great place to take photos, enjoy a packed lunch, and just take in the beauty of the Himalayas. Most trekkers return to base camp the same day.
Trekking Options
After visiting the lake, you can return the same way or continue toward Yak Kharka and Thorong La Pass if you’re doing the full Annapurna Circuit. If you're not crossing the pass, you can also retrace your steps back to Manang and then head down to the starting point.
Best Time to Visit
The best times to trek to Tilicho Lake are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The skies are clear, and the weather is more stable. Winter is not ideal because the trail may be covered in snow, and the lake might be frozen.
Final Thoughts
Tilicho Lake Trek is perfect for those looking for a high-altitude adventure in the Himalayas. It’s more challenging than some other treks due to the altitude and rough terrain, but the reward is worth it. Stunning landscapes, peaceful trails, and the unforgettable sight of Tilicho Lake make this trek a once-in-a-lifetime experience.