Start: [6:00 AM – Day 1]

 Pick-up Point: Your Hotel in Kathmandu

End: [8:00–9:00 PM – Day 7]

 Drop-off Point: Your Hotel in Kathmandu

Transfer Information

Airport Transfers

We offer complimentary airport transfers for all our trekkers—whether you’re arriving early or late. Just share your flight details with us ahead of time, and our team will be there to welcome or see you off with a private vehicle.

Day 1 – Journey to Chame

Your trekking adventure begins early on Day 1.

• At around 6:00 AM, your trekking guide will meet you at your hotel in Kathmandu.
• From there, you’ll travel by local bus through scenic hills, rivers, and remote villages to Besisahar, from there you will take a shared jeep towards Chame, your trekking starting point.

Day 7 – Return to Kathmandu

After completing your trek in the Manang region:

• You’ll board a shared jeep from Manang to Besisahar, descending through rugged mountain roads.
• From Besisahar, you will take the local bus back to Kathmandu.
• You’ll be dropped off directly at your hotel by late evening (around 8–9 PM).

Important Notes

Pick-Up Location

To ensure a smooth start to your trek, please provide your Kathmandu hotel name and contact number at least one day before departure.

Pre-Trek Briefing in Thamel (Highly Recommended)

We invite all trekkers to attend our Pre-Trek Briefing Session the day before the trek begins, held at the Places Nepal Office in Thamel.

 This session includes:

• An introduction to your trekking guide
• A review of the trek route and safety protocols
• Last-minute packing and gear suggestions
• Answers to any questions you may have

Attending this short but informative session is strongly encouraged—it helps you prepare mentally and practically, and ensures you’re fully ready for your Himalayan adventure.

Food on the Tilicho Lake Trek

During your journey, you'll enjoy hearty meals that support your energy needs at altitude. Here’s what you can expect:

Included Meals

• Breakfast is included daily during the trek and typically consists of warm, filling options to start your hiking day right.
• Lunches during the jeep drives to and from Chame/Manang are also included to make long travel days smoother.

Note: Lunch and dinner during the trek are not included. This gives you the freedom to choose meals that suit your taste and appetite. Expect to spend around $30–$35 per day on food and drinks.

Meal Options on the Trek

• Dal Bhat: Nepal’s classic meal of steamed rice, lentil soup, seasonal vegetables, and pickles—served with free refills.
• Breakfast Choices: Pancakes (Tibetan/fruit), porridge, eggs, toast, chapati, tea, coffee, and hot chocolate.
• Lunch/Dinner Options: Fried noodles or rice, momos (dumplings), thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup), sherpa stew, and occasionally pizza or pasta in larger villages like Manang.
• Snacks: Biscuits, boiled potatoes, dried fruits, popcorn, chocolates, and energy bars are available or can be brought along.
• Drinks: Tea (ginger, mint, black), lemon honey tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and occasionally butter tea. Boiled water is available, though purification tablets are recommended.

Dietary Needs

• Vegetarian meals are widely available.
• Vegan and gluten-free options may be limited—it's best to bring supplements or snacks if you have dietary restrictions.

Accommodations on the Tilicho Lake Trek

Accommodations are in local tea houses and lodges, offering a mix of comfort and simplicity as you move through varying altitudes.

Lower Elevations (Chame to Manang)

• Twin-sharing rooms with beds, blankets, and pillows.
• Some lodges (especially in Chame and Manang) offer attached bathrooms and hot showers for an extra fee.
• Heated dining areas, limited electricity, and paid Wi-Fi are common.
• Manang has the best lodging on the route, with solar-powered hot showers and Western-style toilets available in some places.

Higher Elevations (Tilicho Base Camp & Beyond)

• Basic, shared rooms (dormitory-style) with limited amenities.
• No attached bathrooms—only basic squat toilets.
• No hot showers at base camp; expect cold washing facilities.
• Limited or no Wi-Fi and device charging available at a cost.
• Rooms can fill quickly during high season—arrive early or book ahead.

On the Way Back – Shree Kharka

• Basic but cozy tea houses with twin-sharing rooms.
• Simple bathrooms and a warm communal dining space.

What to Expect in All Tea Houses

• Basic wooden rooms, usually without heating.
• Shared blankets—bring your own sleeping bag for warmth.
• Communal dining rooms where trekkers gather for meals.
• Solar-powered electricity and limited outlets for charging.
• Wi-Fi and hot water may be available but often come at a cost.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Tea houses operate on a first-come, first-served basis—arrive early during peak seasons.
• All payments are in cash only—carry enough Nepali currency.
• No ATMs along the route—prepare accordingly.

The Tilicho Lake Trek is rated as moderate, but it demands good physical fitness and mental resilience due to its high altitude and rugged terrain. The trail ascends to Tilicho Lake at 4,919 meters (16,138 feet), where altitude sickness is a real concern. Daily hikes range from 5 to 8 hours, with the hike to the lake often exceeding 10 hours.

Key challenges include:

• Steep climbs and exposed trails
• Landslide-prone sections, especially between Shree Kharka and Tilicho Base Camp
• Cold nights, sub-zero temperatures, and strong winds at higher elevations

To reduce the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), a proper acclimatization day in Manang (3,519 m) is essential.

Despite its demands, those who take on the Tilicho Lake Trek are rewarded with spectacular Himalayan views, lush valleys, and the unmatched beauty of the world’s highest lake—an adventure well worth the effort.

Weather & Best Time to Trek Tilicho Lake

The weather on the Tilicho Lake Trek varies significantly with the seasons and altitude, influencing both trail conditions and trekking experiences. Choosing the right time of year is key to enjoying safe and scenic trekking.

Spring (March to May) – Best Season for Trekking

Spring is one of the most favorable seasons for Tilicho Lake Trek. As the snow begins to melt, the trails become more accessible, and the landscapes burst into life with blooming rhododendrons, alpine flowers, and clear mountain views. Daytime temperatures are pleasant, ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) at lower altitudes. Evenings remain cool, especially at higher camps like Tilicho Base Camp. Visibility is excellent, offering unobstructed views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak.

Autumn (Mid-September to November) – Another Peak Season

Autumn is another ideal season for Tilicho Lake Trek due to stable weather and crisp mountain air. Post-monsoon clarity brings some of the most breathtaking views in the Himalayas. Daytime temperatures are moderate, while nights at higher elevations can dip below freezing. This season also offers vibrant cultural experiences, as major Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar take place.

Monsoon (June to Early September) – Not Recommended

The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, landslides, and slippery trails, making trekking risky—especially along the landslide-prone sections between Shree Kharka and Tilicho Base Camp. Cloudy skies often obscure mountain views, and leeches can be an issue at lower elevations. Due to these hazards, this season is not recommended for trekking.

Winter (Late November to February) – For the Brave and Experienced

Winter treks to Tilicho Lake are possible but highly challenging. Temperatures at Tilicho Base Camp and the lake often drop well below -15°C (5°F), and snow can block the trail, particularly near the high passes and narrow ridges. Only seasoned trekkers equipped for extreme cold and snow conditions should consider trekking in winter.

Seasonal Impacts of Climate Change

Global warming is increasingly affecting weather patterns in the Annapurna region. Unpredictable snowfall, changing rainfall timing, and rising temperatures are making traditional trekking seasons less reliable. For example:

• Late spring snowfalls have occasionally delayed treks.
• Glacial melt around Tilicho Lake is accelerating, increasing the risk of rockfalls and altering water levels.
• Dry spells during monsoon months and warmer winters are reshaping local ecosystems.

Trekkers are encouraged to remain flexible with dates and prepare for variable conditions by consulting local guides and checking real-time weather forecasts.

How to Get Fit for the Tilicho Lake Trek

The Tilicho Lake Trek is a challenging high-altitude journey that demands good physical preparation. Here’s how to get trek-ready:

1. Build Endurance

Start cardio training (hiking, walking, jogging, cycling) 6–8 weeks in advance. Aim for 4–5 sessions per week of 45–60 minutes.

2. Strength Training

Focus on legs and core—do squats, lunges, step-ups, and planks to handle steep trails and long hikes.

3. Hike With a Backpack

Train with your loaded backpack to mimic trek conditions. Break in your hiking boots during practice walks.

4. Stretch & Recover

Add yoga or stretching to stay flexible and avoid injury. Prioritize rest days to let your body recover.

5. Stay Hydrated & Eat Well

Fuel your training with a balanced diet and plenty of water to build stamina and aid recovery.

Tilicho Lake Trek Packing List

Clothing

Base Layers:

• Moisture-wicking thermal tops & bottoms (2 pairs)
• Lightweight trekking shirts (2–3 quick-dry)
• Trekking pants (2 pairs)

Insulation Layer:

• Fleece or down jacket
• Insulated vest (optional)

Outer Layer:

• Waterproof & windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
• Waterproof trekking pants

Other Essentials:

• Warm hat/beanie
• Sun hat or cap
• Neck gaiter or buff
• Warm gloves (windproof & insulated)
• Inner liner gloves
• Warm trekking socks (3–4 pairs)
• Undergarments (quick-dry)
• Lightweight sleepwear

 Footwear

• Well-broken-in hiking boots (waterproof recommended)
• Lightweight camp shoes/sandals
• Gaiters (optional, for snow or muddy sections)

Backpacks & Bags

• 35–45L daypack (with rain cover)
• Duffel bag for porter (Places Nepal provides one, if included)
• Dry bags or ziplocks (for organizing and waterproofing)

 Sleeping Gear

• Four-season sleeping bag (rated -10°C or lower)
• Sleeping bag liner (adds warmth and hygiene)

Toiletries & Personal Items

• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• Biodegradable soap & shampoo
• Quick-dry towel
• Wet wipes & hand sanitizer
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+) & lip balm (SPF)
• Toilet paper & small garbage bag
• Feminine hygiene products (if needed)

Health & Safety

• Water purification tablets or filter
• Personal first-aid kit (include blister care & altitude meds)
• Diamox (consult with your doctor)
• Altitude sickness awareness card (optional but helpful)
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Sunglasses (UV-protected)
• Trekking poles (highly recommended for descents)

Electronics

• Power bank (solar optional)
• Charging cables (USB)
• Plug adapter for Nepal
• Camera or phone with good battery life
• Earphones (optional)

Documents & Money

• Passport (with visa)
• Trekking permits (provided by your operator)
• Copies of travel insurance and ID
• Extra passport-sized photos
• Cash (Nepali rupees for meals, Wi-Fi, charging, tips)

The 7-day Tilicho Lake Trek is a stunning high-altitude journey through the heart of Nepal’s Annapurna region. Reaching Tilicho Lake at 4,919 meters—one of the world’s highest lakes—this trek blends mountain adventure with cultural immersion in Himalayan villages. Starting from Kathmandu, the route winds through pine forests, alpine landscapes, and arid highlands, passing through traditional settlements like Chame, Upper Pisang, and Manang. Along the way, trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the Annapurna Massif, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and Chulu ranges. Designed for those with limited time but a strong spirit of adventure, this one-week itinerary offers a fulfilling trekking experience.

The trek begins with a long but scenic drive from Kathmandu (1,400 m) to Chame (2,650 m), the gateway to the Annapurna region. En route, trekkers enjoy views of lush hills and soaring peaks like Manaslu (8,163 m), Lamjung Himal (6,983 m), and Annapurna II (7,937 m). From Chame, the trail heads to Upper Pisang (3,300 m), revealing dramatic Himalayan panoramas and the iconic curved rock face of Paungda Danda. Day three leads to Manang (3,519 m), a cultural hub framed by towering peaks such as Gangapurna (7,455 m), Tilicho Peak (7,134 m), and Chulu West (6,419 m). This village offers opportunities for acclimatization hikes to Ice Lake, Gangapurna Lake, and Praken Gompa.

From Manang, the path ascends to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150 m) via the remote villages of Khangsar and Shree Kharka. This section includes narrow, landslide-prone trails with awe-inspiring vistas. After an overnight rest, trekkers rise early for the final push to Tilicho Lake (4,919 m), surrounded by the majestic Nilgiri, Tilicho Peak, and the icy wall of the Grand Barrier. The descent continues to Shree Kharka (4,050 m), before heading back to Manang and concluding with a drive to Kathmandu. The journey delivers both physical challenge and spiritual reward, set amidst some of the most remarkable mountain scenery in the Himalayas.

Along the route, trekkers pass monasteries, prayer flags, yak pastures, and glacial rivers—each moment enriching the cultural and natural experience. The hospitality of the local people and the simplicity of mountain life add to the trek’s charm. Despite the short timeframe, each day covers diverse terrain and scenery. Accommodations are in traditional tea houses offering basic but comfortable lodging and meals. The best seasons for this trek are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when the skies are clear, temperatures are stable, and the mountain views are at their finest.

To undertake the Tilicho Lake Trek, trekkers must obtain two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. For SAARC nationals, the ACAP costs NPR 1,000 and TIMS NPR 300. For other international trekkers, the ACAP is NPR 3,000 and TIMS NPR 2,000. These can be secured in Kathmandu or Pokhara through the Nepal Tourism Board or licensed trekking agencies. Ensure you carry passport-sized photos and a valid ID. Proper acclimatization, a reasonable level of fitness, and adequate trekking gear are essential for completing this rewarding high-altitude trek safely.

Whether you dream of standing beneath the world’s highest peaks or walking along ancient Sherpa trade routes, the Tilicho Lake Trek offers challenge and reward like no other. Join us at Places Nepal Pvt. Ltd. and let your Himalayan story begin. Contact us today to customize your itinerary, check group departures, or ask any questions—our team is here to help every step of the way!

Trek Attractions and Highlights:

• Tilicho Lake (4,919 m): One of the highest lakes in the world, surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks.
• Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, Nilgiri, Chulu Peaks: Stunning views throughout the trek.
• Traditional villages: Chame, Upper Pisang, Manang, and Shree Kharka offer insight into local life.
• Buddhist culture: Monasteries, prayer wheels, and chortens along the trail.
• Varied landscapes: From pine forests and waterfalls to alpine meadows and glacial basins.

Route Description & Altitude Highlights:

• Day 1: Kathmandu (1,400 m) to Chame (2,650 m) – 8–9 hrs drive
• Day 2: Trek to Upper Pisang (3,300 m) – 5–6 hrs
• Day 3: Trek to Manang (3,519 m) – 6–7 hrs
• Day 4: Acclimatization in Manang (Optional hike to Ice Lake or Praken Gompa)
• Day 5: Trek to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150 m) – 6–7 hrs
• Day 6: Hike to Tilicho Lake (4,919 m) and descend to Shree Kharka (4,050 m) – 7–8 hrs
• Day 7: Return to Manang and drive back to Kathmandu – Full day