The Highest Tilicho Lake Trek | Itinerary, Difficulty, Altitude
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SELLER
SELLER
Budget
Difficulty
Moderate
Duration
16 Days
Accommodation
Teahouses
Best Time
Spring and Autumn
Max Alt
5,416m (17,769ft)
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Trek Overview
Tilicho Lake Trek – 16 Days
Overview
The Tilicho Lake Trek combines the classic Annapurna Circuit with a side trip to Tilicho Lake (4,950m) — one of the highest lakes in the world — and a crossing of Thorong La Pass (5,416m). The route passes through Gurung, Manangi, and Mustang villages, pine forests, high-alpine desert, and glacial terrain, with views of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and Dhaulagiri.
Difficulty of Tilicho Lake Trek
Moderate to challenging, due to altitude and long trekking days. Good physical fitness is recommended. Prior trekking experience is helpful but not required with proper guidance.
Best Time to Trek
- Spring (March–May): Rhododendron blooms, clear mountain views
- Autumn (September–November): Stable weather, excellent visibility
- Winter and monsoon are not recommended (snow, cold, landslide risk)
Permits Required for Tilicho Lake
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) card
Accommodation & Meals
Teahouse lodging with basic, comfortable rooms throughout the route. Meals include Nepali staples (dal bhat, noodles, soups) and simple Western options, plus hot drinks and snacks.
Connectivity
Wi-Fi and mobile coverage available in lower areas (e.g., Manang), limited or unavailable at higher altitudes. Device charging available at teahouses for a fee — carrying a power bank is recommended.
Packing List
Clothing
- Down or insulated jacket
- Thermal base layers
- Trekking pants and shirts
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Warm hat, gloves, scarf
Footwear
- Trekking boots
- Comfortable socks
- Lightweight sandals/shoes for evenings
Accessories
- Backpack/daypack
- Trekking poles
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Headlamp with spare batteries
Personal Items
- Reusable water bottle
- Water purification tablets or filter
- Basic first-aid kit
- Personal medication
Trip Highlights
- Tilicho Lake (4,950m) — one of the highest lakes on Earth
- Thorong La Pass crossing (5,416m)
- Traditional villages of Manang and Mustang
- Panoramic views of Annapurna II, III, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and Dhaulagiri
- Well-paced itinerary with built-in acclimatization day
Trek Gallery
Day-by-Day Itinerary
1
Activity: 20 minutes drive
Max. Altitude: 1,350m/4,429ft. ()
2
Activity: 8-9 hours drive
Max. Altitude: 1,100m/3,609ft. ()
3
Activity: 6 hours trek
Max. Altitude: 1,700m/5,577ft. ()
4
Activity: 5-6 hours trek
Max. Altitude: 2,670m/8,760ft. ()
5
Activity: 5-6 hours trek
Max. Altitude: 3,200m/10,499ft. ()
6
Activity: 8-9 hours trek
Max. Altitude: 3,540m/11,614ft. ()
7
Activity: 4-5 hours trek
Max. Altitude: 4,060m/13,320ft. ()
8
Activity: 5-6 hours trek
Max. Altitude: 4,140m/13,583ft. ()
9
Activity: 6-7 hours trek.
Max. Altitude: 4,950m/16,240ft. ()
10
Activity: 4-5 hours trek
Max. Altitude: 4,040m/13,255ft. ()
11
Activity: 3-4 hours trek
Max. Altitude: 4,600m/15,092ft. ()
12
Activity: 7-8 hours trek
Max. Altitude: 5,416m/17,769ft. ()
13
Activity: 5-6 hours trek
Max. Altitude: 2,715m/8,907ft. ()
14
Activity: 25 minutes flight
Max. Altitude: 8,232m/27,008ft. ()
15
Activity: 6-7 hours sightseeing
Max. Altitude: 1,350m/4,429ft. ()
16
Note:
If you have a private group and prefer a personalized experience, we can organize a custom trip tailored to your requirements and group size, running it any day you choose.
What's Included
- Airport pickup and drop-off
- All ground transportation and domestic flights as per itinerary
- Accommodation during the trek and in Kathmandu
- Experienced trekking guide and support staff
- Trekking permits (ACAP and TIMS)
What's Excluded
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses (laundry, drinks, Wi-Fi, charging)
- Tips for guides and porters
Reviews
TOP
SELLER
SELLER
Difficulty
Moderate
Duration
16 Days
Accommodation
Teahouses
Best Time
Spring and Autumn
Max Alt
5,416m (17,769ft)
Got questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
Moderate to challenging, due to high altitude, long walking days, and the Thorong La Pass (5,416m). Good fitness is recommended.
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) for clear, stable weather.
Not mandatory — helpful but not required. Proper acclimatization and guided support make it manageable for beginners.
ACAP and TIMS card.
Yes. The itinerary includes acclimatization days to reduce risk.
Teahouses with basic rooms, meals, and shared facilities.
Temperatures can drop below freezing at Tilicho Lake and Thorong La Pass, especially in autumn/spring mornings.
Travelers with serious heart or lung conditions, those unprepared for high altitude, and those seeking a luxury trekking experience.
Adventure seekers, trekkers wanting to explore beyond standard routes, nature/photography enthusiasts, and those seeking a mix of culture, scenery, and high-altitude challenge.
