Tilicho Lake Tour: An 8 Day Planned Itinerary

Overview of the Tilicho Lake Tour

Tilicho Lake is one of the world's highest glacier lakes, situated in the Mustang District of Nepal. It lies at an altitude of 4919 m above sea level. Some tall mountains like Kangsar, Muktinath Peak, Annapurna, Nigiri, and Tilicho surround Tilicho Lake.

Tilicho Lake Tour is a thrilling adventure around the unique and challenging area of Nepal to witness the immense beauty of the landscape and snow-crowned mountains. 

During this journey, you can experience the mixture of high-altitude adventure, cultural immersion, and spectacular photo opportunities.

Highlights of the Tour

• Explore Tilicho Lake (4919 m): the highest lake of its size in the world.
• Views of lush hills, remote villages, and river valleys.
• Alpine forests and landslide zones
• Himalayan wildlife such as blue sheep, snow pigeons, and marmots. 
• Learn about mountain life, local monasteries, and the spiritual side of the Himalayas.

Altitude and Elevation Chart Tilicho Lake

Itinerary of the Tilicho Nepal Tour

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300 m) 

• After getting picked up from Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), you will move to a hotel in Thamel or nearby Kathmandu.

• Visit around for trek briefing & last-minute gear shopping.

• Spend an overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 2: Kathmandu to Besi Sahar (807 m)

• The Tilicho tour package begins with your early ride from Kathmandu to Besi Sahar via Pokhara, which will take about 7 to 8 hours. Along the way, you will explore various beautiful hills and valleys.
• You will spend your night in a hotel or guest house in Besi Sahar.

Day 3: Besi Sahar to Manang (3,519 m) to Shree Kharka (4,060 m)

• Your trip to Tilicho Lake continues with a jeep ride to Manang. The 65 km drive takes about 5 to 6 hours to reach Manang.
• From Manang, you have a 2 to 3-hour hike to Shree Kharka passing Khangsar Village.
• Spend your night in Shree Kharka.

Day 4: Shree Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp (4,200 m)

• Today will be a scenic part of the trek as you will be heading towards Tilicho Base Camp. You will trek for about 4 to 5 hours to reach Tilicho Base Camp.
• Spend the night in a tea house in the base camp.

Day 5:  Trek back to Tilicho Lake (4,919 m), hike back to Shree Kharka (4,060 m)

• Big day today, you will trek to Tilicho Lake early in the morning to witness the stunning beauty of the lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
• After having such an epic view, you will return to Shree Kharka along the rocky path.
• Spend the night in a tea house in the base camp.

Day 6: Shree Kharka to Besi Sahar (807 m)

• Descend to Manang from Shree Kharka with an amazing view of the Annapurna range and Tilicho Peak.
• From Manang, catch a jeep to Besi Sahar, and spend the night in Besi Sahar.

Day 7: Besi Sahar to Kathmandu (1,300 m)

• Get a bus or hire a cab from Besi Sahar to Kathmandu. It will take about 8 to 9 hours to return to Kathmandu.
• Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 8: Departure from Kathmandu (1,300 m)

• Depending on your travel schedule, you can head to the airport for your international flight to your hometown.

Packing List for Tilicho Lake, Manang Holiday Package

During the Tilicho Lake Tour, you won’t have to trek for long days; however, a few days of trekking also require lots of equipment. So, there are some essentials you must have during the trek.

Head

• Warm hat & cap
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Headlight
• Earmuffs

 Body

• Thermal layers
• Warm and Waterproof jacket
• Thermal Gloves
• Trekking Trousers and Shorts
• Neck buff
• Waterproof gloves
• Beanie

Footwear

• Trekking shoes
• Hiking boots
• Warm Hiking socks
• Gaiters

Essentials/Equipment

• Sleeping bag
• First aid kit
• Trekking poles & Duffel bag
• Water Bottles and Hydration Bladders
• Raincoat
• High-energy snacks
• Toiletries 

Note: Don’t carry too many goods that will trouble you during the trek. Take only stuff that is important.

Best time to visit Tilicho Lake

Autumn

The optimal time for trekking to Tilicho Lake in Nepal is between September and November, as the sun is bright and the weather is clear, and the mountains are abundant, both from a distance and up close. 

You can enjoy festival vibes with local festivals like Dashain and Tihar at this period.

Spring

Spring (March-May) in the Himalayas offers less snow, perfect for trekking. Tilicho Lake's high altitude offers clear Himalayan views and colorful flowers along the path, an uplifting mood.

Winter and Summer

These two seasons are not considered ideal for the trek. Winters are extremely cold, and heavy snow makes walking difficult. On the other hand, extreme downpour makes the path slippery and full of leeches. So, these times are not recommended for touring in Mustang or any region in Nepal. 

History and Cultural Significance of Tilicho Lake

In terms of geography, Tilicho Lake has a long history that goes back millions of years.

According to Hindu mythology, Tilicho Lake is considered a holy lake to connect with Lord Shiva. It is believed that this sacred lake is formed by the tear of Lord Shiva during the grief of the death of Sati. 

The local folks also connect this Lake with the Epic Ramayana, where Vyasadeva meditated and got enlightened.

How to get to Tilicho Lake? 

The stunning and world’s highest lake, Tilicho Lake Tour, is one of the best Nepal tour packages from Kathmandu.

Manang Tilicho Lake Tour is an 8-day tour beginning from Kathmandu. A travel agency in Nepal will help you to begin your trek from Kathmandu on a bus to reach Besi Sahar, from where you will travel to Manang on a jeep. From there, you will continue your journey on foot to Tilicho Lake, passing Shree Kharka, Khangsar Village, and Tilicho Base Camp. 

Things to do during the Tilicho Lake Tour

There are lots of activities you can enjoy doing during your tour to Tilicho Lake:

1. Photography 

If you are a person who is keen on photography, then congratulations, as this tour is a picturesque trip where you will have unlimited options to click. From beautiful valleys to mountains, wildlife, birds, plants, rivers, lakes, local people and their culture, and many more.

2. Encounter Local Wildlife

During the Tilicho Lake trip, you can witness some of the rare birds and animals in Nepal. Pictures of Himalayan wildlife such as blue sheep, snow pigeons, and marmots can be a master piece to your collection.

3. Enjoy Local Cuisine

You can experience some of the authentic local cuisines during the tour package to Tilicho Lake. Local vegetables, dal bhat (rice and lentil soup), and local pickles are to taste.

4. Stargazing

Stargazing is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you must not miss. If you are a nature lover and a photography enthusiast, then you will be stunned by the magical night view of the spark of millions of stars and the Milky Way in the clearest sky. 

What’s Included?

• Hotel in Kathmandu
• Pick-up and drop-off car services
• Professional guides
• All government taxes included
• All meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
• A local SIM card is provided for communication (returnable after use)
• Transportation for sightseeing

Responsible and Sustainable Tour to Tilicho Lake 

Ecotourism and ethical travel are essential to preserving Tilicho Lake's unique cultural heritage and pristine environment.

To reduce their environmental impact, hikers should follow the "Leave No Trace" philosophy, avoid littering, and use reusable water bottles to reduce plastic waste.

It's important to respect locals, follow cultural customs, and obtain permission before photographing people or sacred sites.

Hikers should also avoid disturbing wildlife and stick to designated trails to protect the delicate ecosystem.

Ecotourism is crucial to the preservation of Tilicho Lake because it promotes sustainable practices, supports local communities, and ensures that the region remains a safe and well-liked tourist destination for many years to come.

Required Permits and Entry Fees for the Tilicho Lake Tour

You will need to carry two kinds of permits with you during the Tilicho Lake Tour: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System).

The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) costs the following:

• Cost: NPR 3,000 (approximately USD 27 to 30).
• ACAP is included in your tour package. You can also get this permit from the Nepal Tourism Board.

TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card costs the following:

•  Cost: NPR 2000 (approximately USD 18 to 20)
• This permit will usually be organized for you by your trekking agency along with the other permits for the trek.

Trek to Tilicho Lake

Tilicho Lake Trek is one of the most popular trekking routes in Nepal. Located at an altitude of 4919 m, Tilicho Lake attracts thousands of trekkers every year.

Bearing natural and religious significance, this famous lake is a place to connect with your spiritual self. 

Short Tilicho Lake Trek itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu

Day 2: Kathmandu to Besi Sahar To Chame (9-10 hours drive)

Day 3: Chame to Upper Pisang (5-6 hours trek)

Day 4: Upper Pisang to Manang (6-7 hours trek)

Day 5: Acclimatization in Manang

Day 6: Manang to Shree Kharka (4-5 hours trek)

Day 7: Shree Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp (4-5 hours trek)

Day 8: Tilicho Base Camp to Tilicho Lake to Shree Kharka (7-8 hours trek)

Day 9: Shree Kharka to Manang (2-3 hours trek) to Besi Sahar (4-5 hours)

Day 10: Besi Sahar to Kathmandu (7-8 hours drive)

Day 11: Departure from Kathmandu

Why Book the Tilicho Lake Tour With Us?

Hi Nepal Travel and Trek Pvt. Ltd is a reputable name in Himalayan travel with decades of experience. We take pride in providing outstanding trekking and tour experiences that are distinguished by careful preparation, operations that prioritise safety, and interactions that enhance culture. Our team is made up of committed support personnel and highly qualified, licensed guides who are all enthusiastic about showcasing Nepal's breathtaking scenery and rich cultural legacy.

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Cost Breakdown for Tilicho Lake Tour Package

Budget:

There isn't a fixed budget as different people have different demands, which cost different amounts. Based on the luxury you want in your dining, accommodation, and other services, the budget varies.

Transportation: 

The cost varies according to the size of your group and the type of transportation you choose.

Meal and Accommodation: 

Depending on the location and your desire, the cost for your meals and accommodation will vary. During your trip, you will have a variety of food to enjoy, such as traditional meals - dal bhat and tarkali (rice, lentil soup, and vegetables), Momo, noodle soup, thukpa, local bread, pasta, etc. You are resting in a tea house and lodge as your accommodation.

Guide and Porter:

Based on the level of experience, the guide and porter will charge you.

Permits: 

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System), which will cost around USD 50 to 80.

Booking Process and Cost Details - How to Book the Tilicho Lake Tour 

To book your Tilicho Lake Tour package, you can visit our website of Hi Nepal Travel and Trek Pvt. Ltd. We will provide you with the best experience during the time you are in Nepal. If you want to know the details about the overall cost for the tour, then click the "Chat on WhatsApp" button.

Do you want to fix your budget and book your package for the Tilicho Lake Tour?