Tilicho Lake Trek Itinerary
Tilicho Lake Trek Itinerary: Best Routes, Durations, & Daily Plan (2026 Guide)
The Tilicho Lake Trek is one of Nepal’s most breathtaking high-altitude adventures. Standing at 4,919 meters, Tilicho Lake is considered one of the highest lakes in the world, famous for its turquoise waters, dramatic Himalayan walls, and peaceful surroundings. This 2026 guide by Himalaya Darshan Treks provides the best Tilicho Lake Trek itinerary, daily plan, route options, duration, cost, and essential tips to help trekkers prepare confidently and safely.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced high-altitude trekker, this guide covers everything you need for a successful Tilicho Lake Trek.
Key Highlights of Tilicho Lake Trek
- Maximum Altitude: 4,919m (Tilicho Lake)
- Trek Region: Annapurna
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
- Best Seasons: March–May & September–November
- Starting Point: Besisahar / Chame / Manang
- Total Duration: 7–12 Days (Flexible)
- Major Attractions: Manang Valley, Khangsar Village, Tilicho Base Camp, Snow Peaks, Lakeside Photography
Where Is Tilicho Lake Located?
Tilicho Lake lies in the Annapurna Region of Nepal, west of Manang. It is reached via a trail connected to the Annapurna Circuit Trek, making it a popular side trip for trekkers heading toward Thorong La Pass. The lake is surrounded by massive peaks such as Tilicho Peak, Gangapurna, and Nilgiri.
Best Time for Tilicho Lake Trek (2026 Guide)
- Spring (March–May)
- Stable weather
- Clear mountain views
- Perfect trail conditions
- Most recommended season
- Autumn (September–November)
- High visibility
- Mild temperatures
- Crowds increase due to popularity
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Extremely cold
- Heavy snow around Tilicho Base Camp
- Not recommended unless accompanied by experienced guides.
- Monsoon (June–August)
- Muddy trails
- Frequent rain
- Landslide risk
- Least preferred season
How Many Days Is the Tilicho Lake Trek?
The trek typically takes
- 7 Days—Fast itinerary (Jeep to Chame)
- 9 Days – Standard itinerary (Most popular)
- 12+ Days – Combined with Thorong La Pass
Himalaya Darshan Treks recommends the 9-day plan for safe acclimatization.
Tilicho Lake Trek Itinerary
1: Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar (760m), then Jeep to Chame (2,670m)
- 8–9 hours
- Beautiful river valleys & waterfalls
2: Trek from Chame to Pisang (3,300m)
- 4–5 hours walk
- Marshyangdi River & Paungda Danda viewpoint
3: Trek from Pisang to Manang (3,540m)
- 5–6 hours
- Upper Pisang route recommended for views
4: Acclimatization Day in Manang
- Explore Ice Lake (4,620m) or Gangapurna Lake
- Mandatory for high-altitude safety
5: Trek from Manang to Shree Kharka (3,860m)
- 3–4 hours
- Walk through Tibetan-influenced villages
6: Trek from Shree Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m)
- 4–5 hours
- Narrow trails and stunning cliff walks
- Amazing view of Clay Cliffs
7: Early Morning Hike to Tilicho Lake (4,919m) & Return to Base Camp
- 7–8 hours
- Sunrise over the lake is spectacular
Note: Return to Base Camp or Shree Kharka based on the weather
8: Short Trek to Khangsar Village and Drive to Besisahar
- Relax in the valley before returning
9: Drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu or Pokhara
Tilicho Lake Trek Difficulty & Safety
The trek is moderately challenging but very doable with excellent fitness and proper acclimatization.
Challenges:
- High altitude (risk of AMS)
- Narrow cliff trails
- Cold temperatures near Base Camp
- Long day hike to Tilicho Lake
- Need to be cautious about rockfall around landslide areas
Required Permits for Tilicho Lake Trek
You will need:
- ACAP Permit (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
- TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System)
Accommodation & Food on the Trek
- Tea houses in Chame, Pisang, Manang, Khangsar
- Limited lodges at Tilicho Base Camp
- Standard meals: Dal Bhat, pasta, soups, Tibetan bread, momo
- Hot water and charging may cost extra at higher altitudes.
For Trekking Gears,
For the trekking gear and packing list, you can visit: Trekking Gear.
FAQs for Tilicho Lake Trek Itinerary
- How difficult is the Tilicho Lake Trek?
The Tilicho Lake Trek is moderately challenging, requiring preparation due to long walking days and altitude gain.
- Is altitude sickness common?
Yes, this is why acclimatization in Manang is crucial.
Why Trek Tilicho Lake with Himalaya Darshan Treks?
Tilicho Lake offers one of the most rewarding and unforgettable trekking experiences in the Annapurna region. With panoramic Himalayan views, authentic villages, rich culture, and the serene blue lake itself, this trek stands out as a life-changing journey.
If you’re planning the Tilicho Lake Trek in 2026, Himalaya Darshan Treks is ready to guide you to one of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes on earth.