One of the world's highest lakes, Tilicho Lake is situated in Manang Ngisyang Village-9, Nepal, at a remarkable 4,919 meters above sea level. This 4.8-square-kilometer glacier lake is located roughly 55 kilometers from Pokhara in the heart of the spectacular Annapurna range. Trekkers and environment enthusiasts should not miss this must-see location because of its deep blue waters, which mirror the majesty of the surrounding peaks, such as Khangsar, Nilgiri, Muktinath, and the lake's namesake, Tilicho.
While Tilicho was once Nepal’s highest lake, that title has since passed to Kajin Sara Lake, perched at 5,200 meters. However, Tilicho remains unrivaled for its sheer expansion, stretching 4 kilometers in length and 1.2 kilometers in width. Remarkably, this vast body of water has no visible water source or outlet; its waters remain enclosed, adding a mystical quality to this alpine wonder.
As part of the Annapurna Circuit, one of the most famous trekking routes in the world, Tilicho Lake is a sought-after side trek for those willing to explore its pristine beauty. The journey adds 3–4 days to the trek, offering an unparalleled experience. In recent years, new lodges have been established between Manang and Tilicho Base Camp, making it easier for trekkers to complete the hike without the need for camping. A day hike from Tilicho Base Camp rewards adventurers with the mesmerizing sight of the lake’s crystal-clear waters surrounded by snow-clad peaks.
An even more difficult trek than the well-known Thorong La Pass awaits those who venture via the other route that wraps Tilicho Lake from the north. Despite its difficulty, this trail is growing in popularity among travelers who want to go off the usual route. But because of its difficulty, this path frequently necessitates camping because, until the next village, Thini Gaon in the Kali Gandaki Valley, there are no teahouses after Tilicho Base Camp. Routes like Mesokanto La and Tilicho North Pass (sometimes called Tilicho "Tourist Pass") go to the settlement of Jomsom, but are often inaccessible owing to snowfall, therefore only the most daring travelers should attempt them.
In addition to its natural beauty, Tilicho Lake holds deep spiritual significance. Hindus believe that it is the ancient Kak Bhusundi Lake mentioned in the epic Ramayana. According to legend, the sage Kak Bhusundi, in the form of a crow, recounted the story of the Ramayana to Garuda, the king of birds, near this sacred lake. This timeless connection between nature and spirituality adds an ethereal dimension to Tilicho Lake, drawing pilgrims and trekkers alike to its shores.
In 2000, Tilicho Lake also became the site of one of the highest altitude scuba dives ever recorded, with a Russian team of divers pushing the boundaries of exploration in its frigid depths.
Day 01: Drive to Besisahar and Jeep to Chame (2600m)
Start with a scenic 5-hour bus ride from Kathmandu to Besisahar, followed by a 3-4 hour off-road jeep ride through forests and villages to Chame. Overnight in a hotel.
Day 02: Jeep from Chame to Manang (3540m)
A 2-hour jeep ride takes you through beautiful landscapes and villages like Bratang and Pisang. Enjoy the views of the Himalayas as you arrive in Manang. Overnight in Manang.
Day 03: Acclimatization Day in Manang
Hike to Gangapurna viewpoint, visit the Braka Monastery, and explore the Manang valley to help adjust to the altitude. Overnight in Manang.
Day 04: Trek to Khangsar (3756m)
Trek through rocky terrain with stunning views of Tilicho Peak, spotting wildlife like mountain goats. Reach Khangsar village for an overnight stay at Tilicho Peak Hotel.
Day 05: Trek to Tilicho Base Camp (4160m)
Enjoy a steady trek through meadows, passing Kangsar Khola, and arrive at Tilicho Base Camp. Overnight in tents.
Day 06: Visit Tilicho Lake (4919m) and Return to Base Camp
Hike to Tilicho Lake, enjoy its turquoise beauty, then return to the base camp. Overnight in Tilicho Base Camp.
Day 07: Trek to Yak Kharka (4040m)
Trek through Khangsar, cross Thorong Khola, and ascend to Yak Kharka. Overnight in Yak Kharka.
Day 08: Trek to High Camp (4900m)
Continue through Ledar and Thorong Phedi, making a gradual ascent to High Camp. Overnight in High Camp.
Day 09: Cross Thorong La Pass (5416m) to Muktinath (3800m)
Cross the Thorong La Pass and descend to Muktinath. Visit the sacred temple and stay overnight.
Day 10: Trek to Jomsom (2700m)
Descend through forests and cross the Kali Gandaki River, arriving in Jomsom. Overnight in a guesthouse.
Day 11: Flight to Pokhara
Take a 25-minute flight to Pokhara or drive for 8 hours if flights are canceled. Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 12: Drive to Kathmandu
Enjoy a scenic 6-7 hour drive back to Kathmandu. Rest overnight in a hotel.
Tilicho Lake’s remoteness, pristine waters, and massive mountain backdrop create an amazing scene, captivating all who journey to its shores. One of Nepal's most magnificent natural gems, Tilicho Lake remains in the heart long after the journey is over, appealing to those seeking adventure, peace, or a deeper spiritual connection to the land.
Picture Credit: Base Camp Adventure, Yatri Nepal Adventure, Sublime Trail, Nepal Highland Trek, Tilicho Lake Trekking
Itinerary Credit: Destination Himalaya Treks and Expedition
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