Adventure Friendship
Tilicho Lake Trek
Trip Overview
Trip Highlight
- Visit Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world at 4,919 meters
- Explore the cultural hub of Manang and traditional Tibetan-influenced villages
- Hike through dramatic landscapes, deep gorges, and high alpine valleys
- Enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and Lamjung Himal
- Experience diverse ecosystems and wildlife in the Annapurna Conservation Area
- Acclimatization in Manang with optional hikes to Gangapurna Lake or viewpoints
- Fewer crowds compared to the classic Annapurna Circuit route
- Interact with friendly locals and experience Buddhist culture and monasteries
Detailed Itinerary
- Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m) – Transfer to Hotel
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from Adventure Friendship will be waiting to greet you with a warm welcome. You’ll be transferred to your hotel in a private vehicle. After check-in and some rest, you may take a short walk around the city or relax at your hotel. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner with traditional Nepali cuisine and a trek briefing.
Overnight stay in Kathmandu.Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from Adventure Friendship will be waiting to greet you with a warm welcome.
- Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar (760 m) – 6 to 7 Hours
After breakfast, begin your journey with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar, the gateway to the Annapurna region. The drive takes about 6 to 7 hours, winding through lush hills, river valleys, and local villages. As you leave behind the bustling capital, the landscapes shift to greener hills and rural settings.
Overnight stay in Besisahar. - Day 3 : Drive from Besisahar to Chame (2,670 m) – 5 to 6 Hours
Today’s drive takes you deeper into the Annapurna Conservation Area. You’ll pass charming villages like Jagat, Bhulbhule, and Dharapani, with views of terraced fields and pine forests. The road becomes rougher as you gain elevation. Arrive in Chame, the district headquarters of Manang, where you’ll be welcomed by spectacular views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II.
Overnight stay in Chame. - Day 4 : Trek from Chame to Pisang (3,300 m) – 5 to 6 Hours
Your trekking adventure officially begins today. The trail from Chame climbs gradually through forests of pine and fir, crossing several suspension bridges. As you ascend, the valley narrows and the views open up to reveal towering peaks. Reach the village of Pisang, known for its traditional Tibetan architecture and panoramic mountain views.
Overnight stay in Pisang. - Day 5 : Trek from Pisang to Manang (3,540 m) – 5 to 6 Hours
Today’s route offers two options—Lower and Upper Pisang trails. The Upper trail, though more challenging, provides better views and cultural experiences. You’ll pass Ghyaru and Ngawal, offering stunning vistas of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. You’ll also pass the ancient Braga Monastery before reaching Manang, a beautiful village and an important acclimatization stop.
Overnight stay in Manang. - Day 6 : Acclimatization Day in Manang
To help your body adjust to the altitude, you’ll spend the day acclimatizing in Manang. You can choose to hike to Gangapurna Lake or visit Khangsar Village, or trek up to Chongkar Viewpoint for panoramic views. You may also explore the village, visit the Manang Cultural Museum, or relax in one of the bakeries or tea houses.
Overnight stay in Manang. - Day 7 : Trek from Manang to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150 m) – 6 to 7 Hours
Today’s trek leads to Tilicho Base Camp, one of the most scenic and adventurous parts of the journey. The trail first takes you to Khangsar Village, then continues along a rugged path with alpine terrain and dramatic cliffs. As you climb, the vegetation thins and the landscape becomes more barren. Upon reaching base camp, you’ll be surrounded by majestic peaks and get your first close-up view of Tilicho Peak.
Overnight stay at Tilicho Base Camp. - Day 8 : Trek to Tilicho Lake (4,919 m) and Return to Manang – 8 to 9 Hours
Rise early for the challenging ascent to Tilicho Lake, the highest glacial lake of its size in the world. The path is steep and rocky, but the reward is immense—Tilicho Lake’s turquoise waters, surrounded by towering snow peaks. After spending time at the lake for photos and exploration, retrace your steps back to Manang for the night.
Overnight stay in Manang. - Day 9 : Trek from Manang to Chame – 6 to 7 Hours
Start your descent back to Chame, retracing the trail through Braga, Humde, and Lower Pisang. The air becomes warmer and thicker, and the vegetation returns as you descend. Enjoy the downhill pace and reflect on your high-altitude adventure.
Overnight stay in Chame. - Day 10 : Drive from Chame to Besisahar and Return to Kathmandu – 10 to 11 Hours
After breakfast, take a jeep drive from Chame to Besisahar (4–5 hours), followed by a shared tourist bus or private vehicle drive to Kathmandu (6–7 hours). Enjoy the views of terraced farmland, rivers, and rural landscapes along the way. Once back in the capital, you’ll be transferred to your hotel.
Overnight stay in Kathmandu or end of the trip.
Trip Cost Inclusion
- International airport pickup and drop-off in Nepal
- 1 night accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
- 9 nights accommodation in local tea houses (twin-sharing basis) during the trek
- Local Government Entry Permit (Trek Card)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Restricted Area Permit
- TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) card
- Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar by local deluxe bus
- Drive from Besisahar to Chame by shared jeep
- Drive from Chame to Besisahar by shared jeep
- Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu by local bus
- 9 breakfasts – local and continental options from the tea house menu
- 9 lunches – simple and light meals at tea houses
- 8 dinners – vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals from the tea house menu
- Government-licensed, English-speaking trekking guide (minimum 10 years of experience)
- All meals for guide and porter
- Insurance coverage for guide and porter
- Fair wages for trekking staff as per government regulations
- First-aid kit carried by the team
- Trekking porter service (available on fixed departure dates; 1 porter shared between 2 guests)
Trip Cost Exclusion
- Nepal visa fees (payable upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu)
- Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu (except for the included 1 night with breakfast)
- Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, porters, and other staff
- Expenses for extra days not included in the scheduled itinerary
- Personal expenses such as drinks, laundry, shopping, trekking gear, hot showers, Wi-Fi, and device charging
- Any costs not mentioned in the “Cost Includes” section
- Travel insurance (mandatory) – must cover both medical and emergency evacuation, with a minimum coverage of USD 100,000
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