Nepal is home to many natural wonders, including some of the highest mountains, the highest lakes, the deepest gorge, the highest hotel, etc. Tilicho Lake (4,919 m) was in the first position for the most extended period as the highest lake in the world until the Kanji Sara Lake (5,020 m) was discovered recently. The Tilicho Lake trek is an incredible venture in the Annapurna region with an adventurous trekking route and a sensational mountain panorama. You'll explore the Annapurna Conservation Area, home to hundreds of flora and fauna. The Tilicho Lake trail is less crowded than the famous Annapurna Basecamp Trek or Annapurna Circuit Trail. You'll enjoy a peaceful walk and intimate interactions with the locals. The Tilicho Lake Trek route ascends and descends through the subtropical forest and joins alpine woodlands before rising above the treeline. The route is challenging and steep, so you must be attentive while walking.
Apart from the adventurous side, the Tilicho Lake Trek Nepal has a divine side too. Lots of myths and stories revolve around this lake. The villages you will trek to present a better understanding of the mountain lifestyle and the cultural heritage of the locals. You'll be walking alongside green hills and cascading waterfalls. Forests of rhododendron, pine, bamboo, magnolia, fir, etc., are crossed along the way, and you stay overnight in beautiful villages.
Hike to the Second-Highest Lake In The World
In the Manang district, Nepal, Tilicho Lake sits 4,919 meters above sea level in the Annapurna Himalayas. It is a beautiful lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains and hills. Trekkers usually visit Tilicho Lake as a side excursion while doing the Annapurna Circuit Trek. So, with that being said, if you have some extra days, you can consider extending our Tilicho Lake trek itinerary to Thorong La Pass and Muktinath. Of course, ensure you are fit enough to go beyond 5,000 meters. Tilicho Lake is formed because of the melts of the northern slopes of Mt. Annapurna. A fun fact about Tilicho Lake is that no aquatic life is recorded in this lake. The turquoise colour of the lake, the serenity encircling the lake is out of this world. You will feel light and relaxed. The view is mesmerizing, and the crisp air will rejuvenate your soul.
Itinerary and mountain views along the way
From Pokhara, the lake is 55 km away (in air distance). We begin trekking from Chame (2,650 m). The trail ascends through villages like Pisang (3,250 m), Khangsar(3740 m), Siri Kharka (4000m) and Manang (3,540 m). Manang is a famous village and has a lot of modern services. From here, we will walk on a steep trail to Khangsar (3,740m) and pass by a few glacier areas. We'll cross some thrilling suspension bridges and walk by juniper and sea buckthorn bushes to reach Tilicho Base Camp (4,150 m). There are a few tea houses at the base camp of Tilicho Lake, so we'll be spending the night here and hiking to Tilicho Lake early in the morning the following day. Western Himalayan mountains such as Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m), Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m), Mt. Himlung (7,126 m), Mt. Fishtail (6,993 m), Lamjung Himal (6,983 m), Mt. Gundang (5,312 m), Tilicho Peak (7,134 m), Pisang Peak (6,091 m), Thorong Peak (5,416 m) and many others are seen throughout the trail. After visiting Tilicho Lake back to the same route up to Manang. From Manang, we will take a Jeep up to Besisahar and then the next day to Kathmandu.
*Note: Many trekkers ask whether they can swim in Tilicho Lake. And the answer is no. Tilicho Lake's shoreline is inaccessible, so one cannot swim or boat on the lake. The lake also has religious values, and there's no provision from the Nepal government for swimming there.
Booking
To book the Tilicho Lake Trek 2025/2026, you can send us an inquiry through our site. We have a secure payment gateway that lets you make Tilicho Lake trek cost payments immediately. We need a few general information of yours with a valid passport & a travel insurance document. You can join a group or trek alone with a guide. For any information, contact our team. We assure you of a safe and adventurous trek in Nepal.
Note: Another option for the Tilicho Lake Trek is crossing crossing of Thorong La Pass (5,416 m). Witness breathtaking vistas of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges from the pass's pinnacle before descending to the sacred Muktinath Temple. Continue your trek to Jomsom, where traditional Thakali villages and arid landscapes offer a stark contrast to the lush valleys below. Conclude your journey with the option of a scenic flight to Pokhara or a further exploration by road, ensuring an incredible blend of natural beauty, culture, and adventure."
