6K Nepal Treks

Tilicho Lake Trek

4.9
rated 4.9 by 90+ travellers on Google
5+ years guiding in the HimalayaGuests from 30+ countriesBorn-and-raised local guides

Trek at a Glance

Duration

12 days

Trip Grade

Challenging

Max. Altitude

4,919m

Best Season

Mar–May, Sep–Nov

Group Size

1–12 pax

Region

Annapurna

Accommodation

Lodge / Tea House

Meals

B / L / D

Start / End Point

Pokhara / Besisahar

Tilicho Lake Trek Overview

Rohit Timilsina

Itinerary designed by Rohit Timilsina, Co-Founder & Lead Guide Verified local guide

Trek deep into the Annapurna Circuit to reach Tilicho Lake at 4,919m, one of the highest lakes in the world.

Tilicho Lake sits at 4,919m in a glacial cirque beneath the Tilicho Peak massif, and reaching it is a serious undertaking. The approach follows the Annapurna Circuit route up the Marsyangdi valley from Besishahar through Chame and Pisang to Manang, a beautiful walk through pine forest, apple orchards, and high-desert plateau country, before branching off to the dedicated lake trail. The lake itself is about 5km long at altitude, framed by the vertical ridgelines of the Great Barrier.

The color of the water on a clear day is a specific shade of deep blue-gray that we have not seen replicated anywhere else in Nepal. The route requires careful acclimatisation, with Manang at 3,540m being the mandatory overnight before any attempt on the lake approach. A full rest day in Manang for side hikes to Gangapurna Lake and an altitude briefing is always added. The lake camp at approximately 4,150m is the jumping-off point for the final climb to 4,919m, a section that involves steep, loose scree and a glacier margin traverse.

Conditions on this final section change with the season. In spring, residual snow improves footing but increases avalanche risk, while in autumn it is drier but more treacherous. This is a serious objective, not just a lake detour attached to the Annapurna Circuit. We plan the itinerary with the lake as the primary goal, treating the Annapurna valley scenery as the approach. After Tilicho, options include returning to the circuit and continuing over Thorong La or descending back through Manang to exit via Besishahar.

Who this trek is for: We typically take 12-14 days to complete this trek, and it is suited for fit trekkers who have ideally completed one high-altitude trek before wishing to pursue a serious objective above 4,900m. The traverse above the Great Barrier to Tilicho Base Camp is the most technically demanding section, narrow, exposed, and loose, and requires confident footing and a good head for heights. Anyone with a fear of exposed traverses should be aware of this before committing.

Signature Moment

Tilicho Lake

4,919 m / 16,138 ft

One of the world's highest lakes, sitting in a vast glacial bowl beneath the north face of Tilicho Peak. The final approach from Tilicho Base Camp climbs a loose moraine ridge with sweeping views of the Annapurna and Nilgiri ranges before the ice-blue lake reveals itself below.

Tilicho Lake Trek Highlights

  • Tilicho Lake (4,919m), one of the world's highest
  • Classic Marsyangdi valley trail
  • High-altitude detour into a glacial bowl
  • Optional combine with Thorong La pass

Tilicho Lake Trek Itinerary

DayItinerary
Day 1

Pokhara to Beshisahar to Chame (2,650m)

Day 2

Chame to Upper Pisang (3,300m)

Day 3

Upper Pisang to Ngawal (3,650m)

Day 4

Ngawal to Manang (3,540m)

Day 5

Manang to Ice Lake to Manang (4,600m)

Day 6

Manang to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m)

Day 7

Tilicho Base Camp to Tilicho Lake (4,919m) and back

Day 8

Tilicho Base Camp to Yak Kharka (4,080m)

Day 9

Yak Kharka to Thorong High Camp (4,800m)

Day 10

Pass day. High Camp to Muktinath (3,800m)

Day 11

Muktinath to Dumba Lake to Marpha (2,650m)

Day 12

Marpha to Pokhara

  1. Day 01: Pokhara to Beshisahar to Chame (2,650m)

    Long jeep day along the Marsyangdi valley via Beshisahar to Chame, the district headquarters of Manang. Camp at Chame.

  2. Day 02: Chame to Upper Pisang (3,300m)

    5 to 6 hours through pine forest with the dramatic Paungda Danda rock face mid-day. Camp at Upper Pisang.

  3. Day 03: Upper Pisang to Ngawal (3,650m)

    5 to 6 hours on the upper acclimatisation route via Ghyaru with high-traverse views of Annapurna II, III and IV across the valley. Camp at Ngawal.

  4. Day 04: Ngawal to Manang (3,540m)

    4 to 5 hours of mostly downhill walking back into the main valley. Camp at Manang.

  5. Day 05: Manang to Ice Lake to Manang (4,600m)

    Big acclimatisation day. Round-trip climb above Manang to the high glacial Ice Lake (Kicho Tal) at 4,600m, then back down to sleep at Manang.

  6. Day 06: Manang to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m)

    Trek via Khangsar and the exposed scree traverse above the Great Barrier to Tilicho Base Camp. Steady footing needed on the narrow loose section. Camp at Tilicho Base Camp.

  7. Day 07: Tilicho Base Camp to Tilicho Lake (4,919m) and back

    Pre-dawn start. Up-and-down day climbing on loose scree (and possibly snow) to Tilicho Lake at 4,919m, one of the highest large lakes in the world. Camp back at Tilicho Base Camp.

  8. Day 08: Tilicho Base Camp to Yak Kharka (4,080m)

    Cross back via the Great Barrier traverse, then onto the eastern bank to Yak Kharka, joining the main Annapurna Circuit. Camp at Yak Kharka.

  9. Day 09: Yak Kharka to Thorong High Camp (4,800m)

    Climb via Thorong Phedi with the steep final pitch to High Camp, setting up the next morning's pass crossing. Camp at High Camp.

  10. Day 10: Pass day. High Camp to Muktinath (3,800m)

    Pre-dawn start, 3 to 4 hours of climbing in thin air to Thorong La Pass at 5,416m, then a long 1,600m descent to the sacred temple complex at Muktinath. Camp at Muktinath.

  11. Day 11: Muktinath to Dumba Lake to Marpha (2,650m)

    Visit the turquoise Dumba Lake near Jomsom, then continue down the Kali Gandaki to the apple-orchard village of Marpha. Camp at Marpha.

  12. Day 12: Marpha to Pokhara

    Long jeep day back through Tatopani and Beni to Pokhara.

Elevation Profile

Highest point: 4,919m (Day 7)Start: 2,650mEnd: 2,650m
2,650m3,300m3,650m3,540m4,600m4,150m4,919m4,080m4,800m3,800m2,650mDay 1Day 11

Your Trek Is Prepared & Led by a Local Guide

Rohit Timilsina, Co-Founder & Lead Guide at 6K Nepal TreksGovt. License #1497

Rohit Timilsina

Co-Founder & Lead Guide · 6K Nepal Treks

Hi, I'm Rohit Timilsina

I started 6K Nepal Treks to give travellers the trek I would want myself: small groups, honest prices and a guide who actually knows the trail. I have guided across the Annapurna, Manaslu and Everest regions for over five years, and I design every itinerary on this site personally.

Whether it is your first teahouse trek or your tenth Himalayan expedition, I want you back home telling everyone it was the best trip of your life.
Govt. License #14974.9★ from 90+ reviews30+ countries guidedHighest guided: 5,416m
Meet the full team

Tilicho Lake Trek Cost & What's Included

Pick a comfort level to see exactly what its package covers. Prices by group size are in the booking card.

What is included in this trek package?

Twin-sharing accommodation in tea houses or local lodges throughout the trek
Hotel accommodation on nights before and after the trek where applicable (breakfast included)
All standard meals on the trail (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) with one hot drink per meal
Purified drinking water throughout the trek (filter or purification tablets)
Seasonal fruits when available
All ground transfers by private or shared tourist vehicle as per the itinerary
Domestic flights where explicitly noted in the itinerary
Experienced, first-aid trained, government-licensed, English-speaking lead guide
Assistant guide for groups of 7 or more
One porter per two trekkers for carrying main luggage (up to 10 kg per person)
Wages, accommodation, meals, gear, and insurance for all trek staff
All required trekking permits and conservation-area fees for the route
TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card where applicable
All permit paperwork arranged before the trek starts
Comprehensive first aid kit including pulse oximeter for daily altitude checks
Emergency oxygen on treks above 4,000m
24/7 operational support from our Pokhara office
Trip completion certificate

What is excluded in this trek package?

International flights and airport departure tax
Nepal entry visa (USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, USD 125 for 90 days, on arrival at Kathmandu airport)
Travel insurance with high-altitude and emergency helicopter evacuation coverage (mandatory)
Personal trekking gear, clothing and footwear
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu or Pokhara before and after the trek
Any beverages including alcoholic drinks, bottled and boiled water
Tips for trekking staff and drivers (recommended but not included)
Hot showers, WiFi, and charging fees at tea houses
Any personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, or souvenirs
Any additional costs caused by natural disasters, political disturbances, or flight delays
Any items not explicitly listed in the Price Includes section

Private departures, your dates

We run this trek as a private trip on the dates that suit you. Tell us when and we will confirm availability.

Tilicho Lake Trek Reviews

JM
BT
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4.9★ from 90+ Google Reviews

Trekkers guided from 30+ countries.

Riding from Pokhara to Upper Mustang over five unforgettable days with Rohit was a true adventure in every sense of the word. As an experienced adventure motorbike rider, including demanding desert expeditions, I can say with absolute confidence that Rohit is a phenomenal rider and an exceptional tour guide. He masters the terrain, understands the mountains, and rides with calm authority and precision. I highly recommend Rohit and his company.

Jacob Mato

Upper Mustang Motorbike Tour · Mar 2026

5.0

Rohit was an excellent guide for my Khopra Ridge trek. From the very first day, he was professional, friendly, and always attentive. He knows the trail extremely well and made sure the pace was comfortable while still keeping good time each day. What I really appreciated was how caring and patient he was, especially on long uphill sections and in changing weather. I highly recommend Rohit to anyone planning the Khopra Ridge trek or any trek in Nepal.

Birendra T Xettri

Khopra Ridge Trek · Mar 2026

5.0

My first trek with Rohit, who is extremely knowledgeable. He is the mountain man of Nepal. His deep love for the mountains means he wants to give his trekkers the best experience, share his stories but above all make sure you are feeling safe, comfortable and able to complete the trek. We did Mardi Himal Trek, blessed with the weather. Do not hesitate to book with Rohit, I will be back again. Namaste

Ange

Mardi Himal Trek · Jan 2026

5.0

This was my second trek with Rohit, I first did the Manaslu Circuit with him a while ago and came back for Mardi Himal this time. Both experiences were absolutely fantastic. Rohit is professional, kind, and really knows the mountains. He always makes sure you're safe, comfortable, and enjoying yourself. He takes care of all the logistics, finds great tea houses, and adjusts the pace perfectly for everyone. Wouldn't trek in Nepal with anyone else.

Peter Murphy

Manaslu Circuit + Mardi Himal · Jan 2026

5.0

Rohit is a young, energetic, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic guide. He took us up to Annapurna Base Camp. We had bad weather, so Rohit decided to wait a day when other guides kept going up. Due to avalanche-risk, this was the obviously the best decision. Rohit always made sure that we felt comfortable and always in a good mood. We had fun, lots of laughter and great stories. Thanks to Rohit we will never forget: Dahl Baht Power 24 Hour!

Sander Wolters

Annapurna Base Camp · 2025

5.0

Without doubt the best guide in the world... Every part of our trip was a dream. From start to finish Rohit and his team had prepared everything to perfection. I cannot recommend this young man enough, so professional, so fun and so considerate. Thank you so much for making our time so special.

Ryan Chandler

Himalayan Trek · Oct 2025

5.0

Just returned from completing a 2 day trek with Rohit as our guide to Kapuche Glacier lake. It was a challenging but fantastic experience thanks to his professional skills his passion for the mountains and his outgoing and friendly personality. He was always there to guide and motivate us even up the never ending stairs!! His support and sense of humour got us safely to our destination and back again. If we return to Nepal we will definitely meet again.

Karen Smith

Kapuche Glacier Lake · 2025

5.0

We did Austrian Basecamp with Rohit. I thought it was going to be a short and predictable trek but I was surely wrong. We went up and stayed for the night and on the next day we did a long return going through some of the most stunning views I've ever seen in my 37 years of life. I don't think that would have been possible without the guidance of Rohit. Also it's really nice to share with him, he is friendly, respectful and chill. And he knows everything about Nepal, its mountains and its flora and fauna.

Arturo Cuevillas

Australian Camp Trek · Jan 2026

5.0

I recently embarked on the Dhampus-Pothana-Australia Camp trek with Rohit, and it was an experience I'll cherish forever. From the very beginning, Rohit's easygoing nature and ability to connect made the journey incredibly enjoyable. Our conversations ranged from deep discussions about spirituality, mountains, and cultures to sharing our mutual love for rock and metal music. Overall, trekking with Rohit was an incredible experience. His warmth, knowledge, and passion for the mountains truly enhanced the trip.

Fahad Rahman

Dhampus-Pothana-Australian Camp · 2025

5.0

Undertook Annapurna Base Camp Trek along with Rohit in first week of April 2025. His detailed knowledge and experience of the terrain and weather helped us having an awesome experience. He was accommodative of our needs and change in plans. Two days later we undertook a motorbike ride upto Muktinath in Mustang Valley. Again his energy, knowledge and experience in the area resulted in us having a superb n memorable time.

Prateek Johari

Annapurna Base Camp + Mustang · Jul 2025

5.0

Rohit was our guide on the 12 day Manaslu circuit trek. The trek was great, nice scenery, not too hard and Rohit took good care of making sure we had a place to sleep every night, as teahouses were filling up quickly because of high season. Rohit is a cheerful guy, social and he takes good care of his guests. With Rohit you are definitely in good company.

Sara Coessens

Manaslu Circuit Trek · 2025

5.0

Had an amazing 9 day Annapurna Base Camp Sanctuary Trek this June with Rohit and his team. His fantastic organisation, hosting, knowledge and professionalism makes Rohit a fabulous choice of guide. Visiting Nepal and especially the Himalayas is a life changing experience and I will never forget it.

Rupert Potts

Annapurna Base Camp · Sep 2025

5.0

Rohit (Haku) was one of the many blessings we received from Nepal. He is not only a great guide who knows how to make trips and expeditions fun and flowy. He is also an incredibly fun human to be around. It was delightful to spend some days riding to the temple of Muktinath with him. Jamming, and discovering a new young friend, full of kindness, values and knowledge.

David Sanchez

Muktinath Motorbike Tour · 2025

5.0

I called Rohit just before 8hrs of starting our Khumai Danda trek. Even after being tired he said let's meet in morning at 6am. He knows English, Hindi, French and Nepali. He not only guided the trek route but made the whole stretch very memorable and interesting. We told stories to each other. He became more like a friend. It was complete fun trekking with Rohit. And yes, Rohit has his own band. Quite an interesting guy.

Shreyassh Verma

Khumai Danda Trek · 2024

5.0

Had an amazing trek, Rohit is a perfect guide especially when dealing with the unpredictability of the trek, someone who's very easy going and social however extremely professional and even other guides would come to him for advice. 100/10

Louis Anderson

Himalayan Trek · 2024

5.0

Rohit is the guy to go trekking with! He knows a lot and can tell you a lot about life in the mountains but also about his amazing family. This drummer of a band can show you around, but also knows that silence in walking is good when doing a hike. Super chill and easy going.

Rutger Dankelman

Himalayan Trek · 2024

5.0

We had an amazing time with Rohit and Yuddha. Rohit was quick to reply when planning the trip and clearly explained the route options, and on the trip his enthusiasm and knowledge were very appreciated. He seems to know all the best tea houses for food too.

Ben Ashby

Himalayan Trek · 2024

5.0

What an amazing experience! Highly recommend Rohit to guide you through the Himalayas. Nothing was too much trouble for him and his team and they went out of their way to ensure we had an unforgettable trip. And most importantly. SO MUCH FUN!!!

Richard Hilliard

Himalayan Trek · Sep 2025

5.0

Just had the most fantastic trek with Rohit and his team. An incredible experience that has created amazing memories and hit the reset button for me in such a positive way. Thank you Rohit.. Namaste

Jonathan Marriott

Himalayan Trek · Sep 2025

5.0

Our experience in Nepal was nothing short of extraordinary, thanks to our incredible friend. He truly is a superman! From the very beginning, the tour was meticulously personalized to cater to our every need and interest, ensuring that we always had exciting activities to look forward to.

Minhaj Ul Islam

Nepal Tour · 2025

5.0

Why Book With 6K Nepal Treks

Licensed & Insured

Registered with Nepal Tourism Board, TAAN and NMA. Fully insured for trekking, climbing, and high-altitude emergencies.

Expert Local Guides

Every trek is led by a licensed, first-aid trained Sherpa or Gurung guide, born and raised in these mountains.

Safety First

Pulse oximeter and emergency oxygen carried on all high-altitude treks. Helicopter evacuation protocol on standby.

Small Groups

Maximum 12 trekkers per group. One porter per two guests. You are a person, not a tour number.

Fair & Transparent Pricing

No hidden fees. Permits, guides, porters and taxes are all included and itemised in your quote.

Responsible Travel

Fair wages for all staff, eco-friendly practices on the trail, and direct support for the mountain communities we work with.

Know Before You Go

The Tilicho Lake trek is challenging, primarily due to two sections: the exposed traverse above the Great Barrier between Khangsar and Tilicho Base Camp, and the final climb to the lake at 4,919m on loose scree and potential snow. Neither section involves ropes or technical climbing, but both require confident footing on steep, exposed terrain at altitude. Daily walking hours range from 4 hours on acclimatisation and short approach days to 8-9 hours on the lake attempt day (round trip from base camp). The altitude accumulation is substantial, with multiple nights spent above 3,500m. The Great Barrier traverse is carefully briefed, demanding attention and can be dangerous if wet or icy. Good trekking boots and poles are essential.

Good to know. Arrive in Pokhara at least one day before departure so there is time for your pre-trip briefing and any last-minute gear hire. We can store spare luggage while you trek.

FAQs for Tilicho Lake Trek

FromUS$ 1039 / person