Tilicho Lake Trek

Our safety and service are rock‑solid: for more than 17 years, our licensed local guides have led adventurers to Tilicho Lake’s breathtaking shores, knowing every ridge, moraine, and hidden valley along the way. We fully manage all logistics, including ACAP permits, transportation, on-trail support, acclimatization profiles, and elastic itineraries that adjust to your pace, with flexible hiking hours, side trips, and rest days.

Pricing is fixed from day one, covering accommodation, meals, guides, porters, and permits—so you’ll never encounter surprise fees on the trail.

Trekkers rate us highly for our reliability, environmental stewardship, and genuine cultural immersion with Gurung and Thakali village families.

Our Tilicho Lake Package treks accommodate groups of 2–10 guests, with most groups averaging 6–8 people. Smaller numbers mean more personalized support and a friendly atmosphere.

Once you’ve booked, your departure is locked in, even if you’re the only participant. In rare cases, such as strikes or natural hazards, we’ll offer alternative dates or routes, but your reservation and full support remain guaranteed.

Absolutely, solo trekkers are welcome on any Tilicho Lake group departure. Your booking secures the trip, guaranteed to run even if you’re the only participant, with our full support from start to finish.

Joining a group also means instant camaraderie, shared mountain memories, and a more cost‑effective adventure than going private.

Yes—our private Tilicho Lake packages let you set your own dates, pace, and route for couples, families, or friend groups.

For parties of two or more, private pricing matches our standard group‑departure rate, and there’s no upper limit on group size. We’ll work with you to design the perfect Tilicho Lake itinerary.

They are different treks that overlap partially. The Tilicho Lake Trek is a shorter, focused journey that takes you from Kathmandu, then through Manang and Tilicho Base Camp, ending at Tilicho Lake. It’s ideal for those who want to explore the lake without crossing Thorong La Pass.

The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is a longer and more demanding route that includes both Tilicho Lake and nearly the full circuit, encompassing a crossing over Thorong La (5,416m) and a descent into Muktinath or Jomsom, offering a more extensive Himalayan experience.

Both treks are located in the Annapurna region and share parts of the same trail, particularly around the Manang area. The key difference is the route length and elevation challenges. The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a longer circuit trek that includes a crossing of Thorong La Pass (5,416m) and covers more varied terrain—from subtropical forests to high-altitude passes—typically ending in Muktinath.

In contrast, the Tilicho Lake Trek is shorter and more focused, taking you on a side trip to Tilicho Lake (4,919 m), one of the world’s highest lakes—without crossing Thorong La. It’s ideal for trekkers who want a high-altitude adventure with fewer days and without the demanding pass crossing.

All these Tilicho Lake itineraries can be tailored to your schedule, interests, and budget. Custom trips operate as private departures (no group dates), and we’re happy to add extra days in Kathmandu, Pokhara, or along the trail for a nominal fee.

Booking your Tilicho Lake Trek is easy; just choose your preferred dates, complete our booking form, and pay a small deposit online. Once we receive your payment, you’ll get a confirmation email. Prefer to pay later? Select the ‘Book Now and Pay Later’ option, and we’ll send you a secure payment link.

The remaining balance can be paid in Kathmandu before your trek begins—via card, cash, or bank transfer.

The 20% deposit is nonrefundable. However, if you cancel your trek, the full amount will be credited toward any future trip with us. This credit never expires and can be used at any time.

Please send us an email, and we will take care of the rest. For full details, we recommend reviewing our risk-free booking policy for any cancellation inquiries.

Yes, most travelers can obtain a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. You’ll need a valid passport with at least six months' validity and cash or a credit card for the visa fee.

For certain nationalities, a prearranged visa may be required—please check with your nearest Nepalese embassy if you are unsure.

Yes, both pickup and drop-off services are included. A representative from the Nepal Hiking Team will be waiting at the airport upon your arrival to greet you and escort you to your hotel.

We will also arrange your transfer back to the airport after your Tilicho Lake trek.

In Kathmandu, you’ll stay in a comfortable 3-star hotel, such as the Woodapple Hotel and Spa, located in Thamel. In Pokhara, accommodations are typically arranged near Lakeside, offering views of Phewa Lake and the surrounding hills.

You can upgrade to a 4-star, 5-star, or luxury hotel upon request at an additional cost.

Yes, you can securely leave any non-essential items at your hotel in Kathmandu during the whole trek. The hotel staff will take care of your luggage and return it to you after your trek—free of charge.

Extra nights in Kathmandu are USD 45 for a single room and USD 50 for a twin/double room, including breakfast and taxes.

In Pokhara, a single room costs USD 40, and a twin/double room costs USD 45. Let us know in advance if you'd like to extend your stay.

The pre-trek briefing for Tilicho Lake takes place at your hotel, usually the day before your trek starts. You’ll meet your guide, review the itinerary, check your gear, and receive necessary equipment, including a duffel bag, sleeping bag, down jacket, map, and T-shirt.

We'll also review trail conditions and weather forecasts and collect your passport copy, insurance details, and any remaining balance, if applicable.

All ground transfers are included in the Tilicho Lake Trek package. Upon arrival and departure, a private vehicle will be provided for airport transfers in Kathmandu. You'll drive from Kathmandu to Jagat by private jeep (approx. 8 hours), which is the trekking starting point, for the next day.

After completing the trek, you’ll come to Besisahar by private jeep and then travel back to Kathmandu.

The Tilicho Lake Trek is described as a moderate trek that spans 10 days of trekking. You will be walking 6 to 8 hours a day, usually on steep uphill and downhill trails. If you are wondering, the path from Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp is considered the most challenging part of the whole trek. You will have to walk on narrow paths through loose scree and a landslide-prone area. So it requires high focus, balance, and stamina.

Altitude sickness (AMS) may be an issue at higher altitudes; however, the program allows for a complete acclimatization day at Manang to minimize the possibility.

Our typical itinerary is approximately 112 to 116 km (around 70-72 miles) between the starting point, Jagat, and the ending point, Besisahar. The average daily distances covered are 10-12 kilometers. (6-7.5 miles)

Our guides are highly experienced in high-altitude trekking and well-trained to manage safety throughout the Tilicho Lake journey. They carry a first aid kit and an oximeter to regularly monitor oxygen levels. They are trained to recognize the early signs of altitude sickness, adjusting their pace or itinerary as needed.

The trek includes a rest day in Manang for acclimatization, and the itinerary is designed to support a gradual ascent. We carefully select teahouses based on hygiene and safety standards. In case of serious emergencies, our team is equipped to coordinate rapid ground support or helicopter evacuation.

The best seasons to trek to Tilicho Lake are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is more stable, skies are clearer, and the mountain scenery is at its finest—ideal conditions for both safety and enjoyment.

Important Notice: Trekking in the summer is not recommended due to heavy rainfall, landslides, slippery trails, and the presence of leeches. In winter, the trails from Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp can frequently be blocked because of icy conditions. Snow can lead to landslides, which often occur due to melting snow during the daytime.

For a safe and memorable experience, plan your Tilicho Lake Trek during the spring or autumn seasons.

Vaccinations are not mandatory for trekking to Tilicho Lake. However, some travelers opt for precautionary shots, such as rabies, due to the presence of stray dogs in rural areas.

We recommend checking the latest guidelines from the CDC or WHO before your trip for up-to-date vaccination advice.

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for the Tilicho Lake Trek. Your policy must cover high-altitude rescue and helicopter evacuation above 5,000 meters, as well as trip cancellation and baggage loss.

You can choose from global providers like Genki Traveler, AXA, Allianz, or World Nomads, or any plan that meets these essential coverage requirements.

Start preparing 4–6 weeks before the trek by incorporating cardio exercises such as hiking, stair climbing, cycling, or brisk walking to build endurance. Doing one long hike a week with a backpack will simulate actual trail conditions.

Strength training—especially for your legs and core—will help with uphill climbs and steep descents. Try training on uneven surfaces and break in your hiking boots early to avoid discomfort on the trail.

Yes, we provide essential gear for the Tilicho Lake Trek, including a -20°C down jacket, a warm four-season sleeping bag, and a 70L duffel bag (to be returned post-trek).

You’ll also receive a Nepal Hiking Team T-shirt, cap, Tilicho Lake trek map, and a certificate of achievement noting the highest altitude reached.

You’ll need a 20–30L daypack for daily essentials like water, snacks, a camera, and extra layers. Your main gear will go in the duffel bag, carried by a porter.

Each porter carries the belongings of two trekkers, with a combined limit of 25 kg. Your individual duffel bag should weigh between 10 and 12.5 kg (22 and 27 lbs).

Pack light and smart. Bring moisture-wicking base layers, a fleece or down mid-layer, and a waterproof outer shell. Essential items include hiking boots, trekking poles, gloves, sunglasses, a warm hat, and a sun hat.

Other must-haves include a headlamp, water bottles or a hydration bladder, simple toiletries, and layers suitable for both hot days and freezing mornings. We’ll provide a complete packing list to help you prepare.

You’ll stay in locally operated teahouses, which are simple but clean lodges offering twin-sharing rooms with beds, mattresses, blankets, and shared bathrooms. At higher elevations, like Tilicho Base Camp (4,150 m), facilities are more basic, and squat toilets may be the norm.

Rooms are unheated, but dining halls typically have a wood stove to keep warm in the evenings. Hot showers are available at most stops, although a small additional charge may apply.

Yes, you’ll find mobile coverage and Wi-Fi in most villages up to Manang. After that, especially toward Tilicho Base Camp, the signal becomes unreliable or unavailable.

For better connectivity, we recommend buying a local SIM card (NTC or Ncell) with a data package in Kathmandu. It’s more cost-effective and offers stronger reception in lower regions than teahouse Wi-Fi. Yes, you’ll find mobile coverage and Wi-Fi in most villages up to Manang. After that, especially toward Tilicho Base Camp, the signal becomes unreliable or unavailable.

For better connectivity, we recommend buying a local SIM card (NTC or Ncell) with a data package in Kathmandu. It’s more cost-effective and offers stronger reception in lower regions than teahouse Wi-Fi.

Yes, teahouses along the trail offer electricity, and you can charge your devices for a small fee (typically $2–$3 per item). However, power can be inconsistent, especially at higher altitudes or in peak seasons.

We strongly advise bringing a power bank and a universal travel adapter compatible with Nepal’s 2-pin and 3-pin plug system (220–240V).

Single rooms can be arranged at an extra charge, where available. However, higher-altitude stops like Tilicho Base Camp often have limited space, making single occupancy less likely.

Solo female travelers will either have a private room (if possible) or be matched with another female guest. You will never be asked to share a room with a male traveler.

Teahouses along the Tilicho Lake Trek serve a variety of hot, freshly prepared meals—ranging from Nepali dal bhat, momos, soups, noodles, pasta, and rice dishes to Indian and continental cuisine. Breakfast options include Tibetan bread, chapati, eggs, pancakes, muesli, and potatoes. You’ll select meals from a set menu at each stop.

Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available. If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, please let us know in advance or inform your guide on the trail—they’ll coordinate with the teahouse kitchens accordingly.

Yes, drinking water is available throughout the trek. You can refill your bottles at teahouses or safe water stations. Bottled water is discouraged due to environmental concerns, especially in conservation zones.

We recommend carrying a reusable water bottle and water purification tablets or filters. Our guides also carry purification methods in case of an emergency. Aim to drink 3–4 liters daily to stay hydrated at high altitudes.

We recommend withdrawing or exchanging Nepalese Rupees (NPR) in Kathmandu before your trek begins. There are no reliable ATMs along the Tilicho Lake route after you leave Jagat and remote villages like Manang. But Tilicho Base Camp often lacks functional machines.

Carrying approximately NPR 25,000 (USD 190–200) in small denominations is advisable. This should cover hot showers, snacks, Wi-Fi, device charging, and any extras not included in your package.

Tipping is not mandatory, but it is a respected and widely appreciated tradition in Nepal. Most trekkers offer a tip to their guide and porter as a gesture of gratitude for their support and service.

There’s no fixed amount—it depends on your satisfaction and experience. Tips can be given in Nepali Rupees (NPR) or US Dollars (USD) at the end of the trek.