Tilicho Lake Trek is one of those treks that sticks with you long after you have returned home. I have guided many groups through this route, and every time, it feels like a new experience. The lake itself, sitting at 4,919 meters, is the highest lake in Nepal that you can trek to without technical climbing. But it’s not just about the lake – the journey to get there is just as exciting.
Let me walk you through the route, the experience, and what makes this trek so special from my point of view.
Starting Point: Besisahar to Chame
Like many treks in the Annapurna region, we start at Besisahar, about a 6–7 hour drive from Kathmandu. From here, most trekkers take a jeep ride to Chame – this saves a few days of walking through the lower villages. The drive is rough but beautiful. You’ll pass waterfalls, rivers, and villages like Dharapani and Danaque. It gives you a glimpse of how people live in these remote mountain areas.
Chame is the district headquarters of Manang, and it’s where the mountain views start to open up. It’s also where you really begin to feel the cool air and peaceful surroundings.
Chame to Manang: Changing Landscapes and Culture
From Chame, the trail takes us through Pisang and then to Manang. This section is one of my favorites. You’ll notice the forest slowly turning into alpine terrain. The views of Annapurna II, III, and Gangapurna are always in sight.
One thing that always catches trekkers’ attention is the change in culture. The villages start to look more Tibetan, the people dress differently, and you’ll start hearing more Tibetan-influenced languages. Manang is a great place to take an acclimatization day. At 3,540 meters, it’s the perfect stop to adjust to the altitude before heading higher.
On the rest day in Manang, we usually hike to Gangapurna Lake or the Ice Lake viewpoint. These short hikes help with acclimatization and offer incredible views of the surrounding mountains.
The Turn to Tilicho: Manang to Tilicho Base Camp
Now comes the real twist – instead of continuing on the Annapurna Circuit to Thorong La Pass, we turn west towards Tilicho Lake.
From Manang, the trail heads to Khangsar, a quiet little village where things start to feel more remote. After Khangsar, we pass Shree Kharka, a small settlement with a few teahouses, and then move towards Tilicho Base Camp. This section is narrow and sometimes landslide-prone, so we always walk carefully. But the views? Absolutely worth it. Dry cliffs, deep gorges, and snow-capped peaks on both sides.
Base Camp is at around 4,150 meters. The lodges here are basic but warm. Nights get really cold, and mornings are silent – just the sound of the wind and the crunch of footsteps.
The Big Day: Tilicho Lake Hike
We usually start early – around 5 AM – to make the hike up to Tilicho Lake. It’s a steep 3 to 4-hour climb. There’s no greenery here, just snow patches, rocks, and a wide open sky. The higher you go, the harder it gets to breathe, but that’s why we take it slow.
And then, just like that, the lake appears. Flat, icy blue, and surrounded by white peaks. It’s quiet and peaceful. Most of the year, the lake is frozen or partly frozen. No matter how many times I go there, it still feels like the first time. Everyone usually just sits down quietly for a while, taking it all in.
We don’t stay long because of the cold and the altitude, so after some photos and snacks, we slowly head back to base camp.
Heading Back or Continuing the Circuit
After visiting the lake, some trekkers return the same way to Manang and then go back to Chame. But others continue toward Yak Kharka and cross the Thorong La Pass to complete the Annapurna Circuit. That adds more adventure but also more challenge.
Whichever way you choose, Tilicho Lake Trek leaves a deep impression.
Tips from a Guide
Acclimatization is key. Don’t skip rest days. Altitude sickness is real.
Pack light but warm. Even in autumn, nights are cold.
Water and snacks. Carry them, especially on the way to the lake.
Stay informed. Check the weather and trail conditions, especially around the landslide areas.
Respect the locals. Their kindness and simple lifestyle are a big part of the trek’s charm.
Final Thoughts
Tilicho Lake Trek is more than just a walk to a high-altitude lake. It is a mix of culture, changing landscapes, and quiet moments that stay with you. From the pine forests of Chame to the windswept cliffs near Tilicho Base Camp, every step feels meaningful.
As a guide, I’ve seen people laugh, cry, and even find peace on this route. If you’re looking for a trek that’s both challenging and rewarding – and a little off the usual path – this one is worth doing.