Adventure Friendship
Tilicho Lake with Thorong La Pass Trek
Trip Overview
Trip Highlight
- Trek to Tilicho Lake, the world’s highest glacial lake
- Cross the Thorong La Pass (5,416m) – a challenging and iconic Himalayan pass
- Explore the unique culture and lifestyle of Manang and Mustang
- Visit the sacred Muktinath Temple, a site revered by Hindus and Buddhists
- Enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Tilicho Peak, and more
- Traverse through dramatic landscapes: from lush valleys to dry alpine deserts
- Discover ancient Buddhist monasteries, yak pastures, and mountain villages
Detailed Itinerary
- Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m) and Transfer to Hotel
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you with a placard at the terminal and escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. After check-in and some rest, you may explore the nearby streets of Thamel or enjoy a short walk in the vibrant city. In the evening, join us for a traditional Nepali welcome dinner. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
- Day 2 : Kathmandu Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
Today is a cultural immersion day in the Kathmandu Valley. After breakfast, you’ll visit historical and spiritual landmarks such as:
- Kathmandu Durbar Square – a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Kumari Ghar – home of the Living Goddess
- Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) – offering panoramic views of the valley
- Patan Durbar Square – famous for Krishna Temple and Golden Temple
In the afternoon, you’ll attend a short trek briefing and check your gear. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.
- Day 3 : Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar (760m) (6–7 hours)
Today, we leave the Kathmandu Valley and drive to Besisahar, the gateway to the Annapurna region. The 175 km journey takes you through scenic countryside, rivers, and terraced fields. Upon arrival in Besisahar, check into your lodge and take time to rest and acclimate. Overnight stay in Besisahar.
- Day 4 : Drive from Besisahar to Chame (2,670m) (5–6 hours)
The journey continues on a rugged mountain road toward Chame, passing through charming villages like Bhulbhule and Jagat. The route offers amazing views of the Lamjung Himal and the Marsyangdi River. Chame, the district headquarters of Manang, is a vibrant village surrounded by towering peaks. Overnight at a lodge in Chame.
- Day 5 : Trek from Chame to Pisang (3,300m) (5–6 hours)
Your first day of trekking begins with a beautiful walk-through pine forests and steep cliffs. As you ascend, enjoy striking views of Annapurna II and Pisangan Danda. Upon reaching Pisang, admire its Tibetan-style architecture and prayer wheels. This is a great acclimatization stop. Overnight stay in Pisang.
- Day 6 : Trek from Pisang to Manang (3,540m) (5–6 hours)
Today’s trail ascends gradually through Braka, Ghyaru, and Ngawal, offering majestic views of Annapurna III, Tilicho Peak, and Gangapurna. Manang is a bustling Himalayan village with bakeries, shops, a medical clinic, and monasteries. The region is rich in Tibetan Buddhist culture. Overnight at a lodge in Manang.
- Day 7 : Acclimatization Day in Manang
This is a crucial day for altitude acclimatization. You can explore the Gangapurna Lake, visit Manang Monastery, or take a short hike to Khangsar Village for spectacular mountain views. Rest, hydrate, and prepare for the higher altitudes to come. Overnight stay in Manang.
- Day 8 : Trek from Manang to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m) (6–7 hours)
The trail heads toward Khangsar Village and continues on a rugged, narrow path with increasing elevation and rocky terrain. Arrive at Tilicho Base Camp, surrounded by towering cliffs and snow-capped peaks. The air is thinner, and it’s important to hike at a steady pace. Overnight at Tilicho Base Camp.
- Day 9 : Hike to Tilicho Lake (4,919m) and Trek Back to Shrikharka (3,650m) (8–9 hours)
An early start takes you to the stunning Tilicho Lake, the highest glacial lake in the world. The ascent is steep and demanding but rewards you with breathtaking views of Tilicho Peak, Gangapurna, and the lake’s turquoise waters. After spending time at the lake, descend back to Shrikharka, a small village en route to Yak Kharka. Overnight stay in Shrikharka.
- Day 10 : Trek from Shrikharka to Phedi (4,200m) (5–6 hours)
Continue your trek through alpine meadows and remote hamlets like Titi and Yak Kharka. The trail climbs gently toward Phedi, the last stop before crossing Thorong La Pass. Get an early night’s rest to prepare for the next day’s high-altitude challenge. Overnight at a lodge in Phedi.
- Day 11 : Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m) and Trek to Muktinath (3,710m) (8–9 hours)
This is the most demanding day of the trek. Begin before dawn to ascend Thorong La Pass, one of the world’s highest trekking passes. The pass offers unforgettable panoramic views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and the Mustang Valley. After conquering the pass, descend steeply to the sacred village of Muktinath, home to the famous Muktinath Temple and eternal flame. Overnight stay in Muktinath.
- Day 12 : Drive from Muktinath to Pokhara (900m) (6–7 hours)
Drive through the dramatic Kali Gandaki Gorge and past apple orchards in Marpha and Jomsom. Eventually, you’ll arrive in Pokhara, a lakeside paradise with excellent food, mountain views, and vibrant nightlife. Enjoy a relaxing evening by Phewa Lake. Overnight at hotel in Pokhara.
- Day 13 : Drive or Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu (6–7 hrs drive / 30 min flight)
Today, return to Kathmandu by either a scenic drive or a short flight (optional). The flight offers fantastic aerial views of the Annapurna and Langtang ranges. After arriving, enjoy your final evening shopping, relaxing, or exploring the city. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.
- Day 14 : Final Departure
After breakfast, our team will drop you at Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight home. We hope you leave Nepal with unforgettable memories of your Tilicho Lake and Thorong La Pass adventure!
Trip Cost Inclusion
- International airport pickup and drop-off in Nepal
- 3 nights accommodation in Kathmandu and 1 night accommodation in Pokhara 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 Jomsom to Pokhara by shared jeep or deluxe bus
- Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu by Tourist Air-Conditioned Bus.
- 10 breakfasts – local and continental options from the tea house menu
- 10 lunches – simple and light meals at tea houses
- 9 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 (1 porter shared between 2 guests)
Trip Cost Exclusion
- Nepal visa fees (payable upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu)
- Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- 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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