Tilicho Lake Trek with Thorong La Pass

18 Nights | 19 Days

Group Size

Min 1 Pax

Trip Grade

Grade C: Fairly Strenuous Grade C: Fairly Strenuous
Grade C: Fairly Strenuous This type of trek needs great physical fitness & an experience of high mountain trekking above 4000 m from the sea level. A strong desire to go for the trek with a minimum of 5|6 hrs walking a day.

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Price From

US $1,830 (All-inclusive price)

Trip Highlights

  • Witness remarkable transformation in Landscape from lush green forests to alpine meadows and high mountains deserts
  • Conquer the challenging and rewarding Thorong La Pass at 5416 meters, considered the highest mountain pass in Nepal accessible on foot. 
  • Immerse in the rich culture and unique traditions of mountain people. 
  • Challenge yourself with a rewarding journey to Tilicho Lake, the world's highest-located lake.
  • Explore Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage for both Hindus and Buddhists. 
  • Enjoy a scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara which offers aerial views of the Himalayas.
  • Trek alongside the river of Marshyangdi filled with stunning natural scenes. 
  • Scenic Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
  • Witness beautiful panoramas of the highest peaks like Dhaulagiri I, Manaslu and Annapurna 

Trip Summary of Tilicho Lake Trek with Thorong La Pass Trek

The Tilicho Lake Trek via Thorong La Pass is a 19-day adventure that offers you with perfect blend of challenging trails, breathtaking landscapes, panoramic views of mountains, culture and traditions. The Tilicho Lake is situated at a staggering altitude of 4919 meters making it the highest lake in the world from sea level. The trek will take you through lush valleys to high mountain passes i.e. Thorong La Pass at the altitude of 5416 meters. 

The route will reward you with panoramic views of the majestic Himalayas including Dhaulagiri I, Manaslu and breathtaking sunrise and sunsets over those mountains. The trek is very famous for its diverse flora and fauna, charming villages, scenic views of rivers, valleys and mountains. You will get to immerse in diverse cultures, interact with the locals and experience their simple living throughout the trek. You will conquer the iconic Thorong La Pass which is considered the highest mountain pass in Nepal on foot. You will witness the deep blue-coloured lake of Tilicho is sure to mesmerize you. 

The trek begins in the capital of Nepal, Kathmandu as we move towards the city of lakes, Pokhara. The scenic drive to Pokhara offers you beautiful views of hills, rivers and views of the Annapurna range. Every day in the trek will be filled with new challenges and rewards where we hike 6 hours every day through diverse landscapes and immerse ourselves in the surroundings more and more. The trek will take you from a lush valley to high alpine meadows where you will witness unique rock formations in Manang, then ascend to the Tilicho Lake Base Camp followed by the challenge of hiking to Thorong La Pass. 

Red Rose Travels and Tours will help you throughout the adventure with our expert guides who will ensure you your safety, and make the trek truly memorable. 

Itinerary

Please note that this is a general itinerary, and actual trekking schedules may vary. It's essential to be prepared for changes in weather conditions and be flexible with the itinerary for acclimatization purposes. Always consult with your trekking agency for the most accurate and updated information.

Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m & 4,600 ft)

On your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, you will be welcomed by our team. They will transfer you to a comfortable hotel in Thamel where you can rest and prepare for the trek. In the evening, we will host you with a warm welcome dinner in a fine restaurant where we will give a brief about the trek and you will also meet your guide for the trek. 

 

Meals: not included

Accommodation:  Hotel in Kathmandu.

 

Day 2 : Drive to Syange (1,100 m) from Kathmandu by Private tourist vehicle

Today we will move out of the city of Kathmandu to Syange. We will start the day early with a warm delicious breakfast and take a private tourist vehicle drive to Syange. The drive to Syange will be a scenic journey along the Trishuli River enjoying views of fields, villages and majestic Manaslu Himal range. We will rest for the night in a guest house in Syange. 

 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Accommodation: Tea House or Trekking Lodge.

Day 3 : Trek to Tal (1,700 m) from Syange

We officially start the trek today with a 5- 6 hour hike to Tal. We will follow the trail of the Marshyangdi River valley walking through lush green forests and watching stunning waterfalls, and traditional villages. Tal is a charming village which provides stunning views of the Manaslu Himal range where we will sleep for the night. 

 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Accommodation: Tea House or Trekking Lodge.

Day 4 : Trek to Danaque (2,300 m) from Tal

After staying in the village of Tal, we will move ourselves to Danaque which is a picturesque village situated on a ridge. The path to Danaque provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains as we traverse through dense rhododendron forest. The locals will welcome you with warm hospitality. 

 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Accommodation: Tea House or Trekking Lodge.

Day 5 : Trek to Chame (2,670 m) from Danaque

We will continue our trek as we traverse towards Chame enjoying the beautiful mountain scenery and waterfalls along the way. The hike will be not more than 5 hours after which we will reach our destination for the day, Chame. Chame is the headquarters of Manage where we will settle for the night. 

 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Accommodation: Tea House or Trekking Lodge.

Day 6 : Trek to Upper Pisang (3,300 m) from Chame

We will start the day off early with a delicious breakfast and set off on another exciting trekking day. We will traverse through diverse landscapes, starting with a lush forest trail alongside the Marsyangdi River. The breathtaking panoramic views of majestic mountains will follow us along the trek to Upper Pisang. After a steady walk of 6-7 hours, we will reach the charming village and our destination for today, Upper Pisang. 

 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Accommodation: Tea House or Trekking Lodge.

Day 7 : Trek to Ngawal (3,660 m) from Upper Pisang

Early morning is a must today as we witness a breathtaking sunrise across the majestic Annapurna II. After having breakfast, we’ll resume our trek toward Ngawal crossing dramatic gorges and viewing high-altitude vegetation. With a steady walk, It should take about 5 hours to reach Ngawal. We will rest comfortably in Ngawal for the night. 

 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Accommodation: Tea House or Trekking Lodge.

Day 8 : Trek to Manang (3,540 m) from Ngawal via Bhraka (3,439 m)

Today the trek will take us through a diverse landscape of hills, lush jungles and wetlands. You should keep your eyes open as the trails offer beautiful scenery including traditional stupas and mountain ranges. The walk won’t be long as it lasts around 5-6 hours leading us to the town of Manang. Manang offers more facilities than our villages before where we rest and settle for the night. 

 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Accommodation: Tea House or Trekking Lodge.

Day 9 : Acclimatization Day at Manang Village

Today we will take a break and focus on exploring the charming village of Manang. We will enjoy leisurely walks and soak in the magnificent scenery that the village provides. 

 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Accommodation: Tea House or Trekking Lodge.

Day 10 : Trek to Shree Kharka (4,080 m) from Manang Village

After a day of acclimatization in Manang, we’ll continue our trek as we set off towards Shree Kharka. The hike will be 5-6 hours crossing Khagsar Khola and reaching Khangsar village well known for the name “Last Village of Nepal”. We’ll settle in for the night in Shree Kharka village.

 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Accommodation: Tea House or Trekking Lodge.

Day 11 : Trek to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150 m) from Shree Kharka

Today we will leave Shree Kharka and continue our journey towards Tilicho Base Camp. The path to the base camp is very scenic as we ascend. We will have two options to climb to the Tilicho base camp (steeper or steady). We will take the new steady one as it offers a more comfortable journey. We will settle for a night in the base camp and rest to prepare for the big day tomorrow.

 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Accommodation: Tea House or Trekking Lodge.

Day 12 : Trek to Tilicho Lake (4,920 m) and Return to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150 m)

Today is an exciting day as we conquer the challenging trek to Tilicho Lake which is the highest lake in the world. We will start the day early to avoid strong wind and hike for 3-4 hours. The hike will take us to Tilicho Lake at the altitude of 4920 meters which is some experience to have. We will spend some time soaking in the surroundings, taking pictures, creating memories and returning to base camp for the night. 

 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Accommodation: Tea House or Trekking Lodge.

Day 13 : Trek to Yak Kharka (4,050 m) from Tilicho Base Camp

Today we will descend from the base camp towards Yak Kharka. Today we will trek up to 8 hours leaving the valley of Marsyangdi behind. The vegetation thins and the landscape changes as we enter the Jarsang Khola valley where we also encounter herds of yaks grazing in the high pastures. We will settle at a guest house in Yak Kharka. 

 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Accommodation: Tea House or Trekking Lodge.

Day 14 : Trek to Thorong Phedi (4,450 m) from Yak Kharka

We will ascend for a short time of 3-4 hours as we climb to reach Thorong Phedi at 4450 meters crossing rivers and diverse terrains. The guest houses in Thorong Phedi offer a comfortable rest before the big challenge tomorrow. 

 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Accommodation: Tea House or Trekking Lodge.

Day 15 : Trek to Muktinath (3,760 m) from Thorong Phedi via Thorung La Pass (5,416 m)

We start the day super early at 4 am before sunrise and climb to Thorung La Pass by 9-10 am to avoid storing winds. You should be prepared for the altitude, possible snow and steep climb. You will witness breathtaking panoramic views from the highest point of the trek, 5416 meters which is truly rewarding. Then the trek will descend to the holy town of Muktinath. 

Muktinath is a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. You will visit the Temple which is adorned with 108 waterspouts and eternal flame fueled by natural gas, Jwala Mai Temple before settling in for the night.

 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Accommodation: Tea House or Trekking Lodge.

Day 16 : Trek to Jomsom (2,720 m) from Muktinath`

Today we will have a scenic descent along the trail to Eklebhatti. We will follow the Kali Gandaki River and arrive in the bustling town of Jomsom after 5-6 hours of trek. We will enjoy exploring the town, relaxing and reflecting on our journey and settling for the night in Jomsom.

 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Accommodation: Tea House or Trekking Lodge.

Day 17 : Early-morning Flight to Pokhara

Today we will take a scenic 30-minute morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. As we arrive at the Pokhara airport, the Red Rose team will transfer you to your hotel and with this we will mark the end of our incredible adventure. 

 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara

Day 18 : Early-morning drive Back to Kathmandu (1,400 m) in a Tourist Bus

This morning we will return to the capital on a tourist bus. The drive offers you a scenic view throughout as we drive along rivers, and hills passing small villages. In the evening, Red Rose will host a farewell dinner where we celebrate the successful completion of the journey. 

 

Meals: Breakfast & Farewell Dinner.

Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 19 : Departure

We will drive you to Tribhuvan International Airport as per your departure time and today you will bid farewell to the country of Nepal. We hope you’ve had an unforgettable experience and created memories that will last forever.

 

Meals: Breakfast.

Airport Drop Off in a Private Vehicle.

Inclusions

  • Airport & Hotel Pickup and Transfer
  • All land transfers as per the itinerary
  • Annapurna Conservation entry permits fees.
  • TIMS ( Trekker's Information Management System ) permit
  • Teahouse trekking accommodation during the trek
  • 3 meals each day ( Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner ) while on the trek.
  • Fully escorted trek with English-speaking license holder local Guide & 1 Porter for two Trekkers
  • All programs are according to itineraries on full board.
  • Trekking equipment and other facilities to Nepali trekking staff.
  • Insurance for all Nepali trekking crew
  • We will show you a special video documentary about the Annapurna region trekking in our office before your trip departure
     

Exclusions

  • Nepal entry visa fee (per person US $ 30 only)
  • Travel & Medical Insurance (mandatory)
  • Optional Excursions: optional excursions such are culture trips, ethnic trips, festival trips, monastery meditation with Lama & monks, nature medicine trips, bird watching, sports, farming trips and other incentive trips as per the client’s interest.
  • Personal expenses e.g. phone calls, laundry, bar bills & extra porters.
  • Hot Shower in during the trekking period
  • Cost arising out of landslides, road blockades, rescue of any form, cancellation of flight or reasons beyond our control.
  • Personal equipment, nature or any donation.
  • All types of drinks
  • Tips for the crew (Note: TIPS is not compulsory but expected)
  • International Airfare and airport tax

Essential Info

Best season for Tilicho Lake Trek via Thorong La Pass

Similar to most of the Trekking destinations in Nepal, Tilicho Lake shines the best in both spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. They both offer the best temperature and climate to hike which depends on your preference.

Autumn offers you a calm comfortable temperature to hike, and clear skies meaning stunning views of mountains which might be perfect for you if you love photography. The weather is also stable in Autumn with minimal chances of rain. However, we would like to inform you that this is the festive season in Nepal meaning you might encounter crowded trails. 

Whereas Spring offers you a warm temperature which at high altitudes might be very beneficial. The trek to Tilicho will be filled with beautiful wildflowers, the lush jungles will be the greenest at this time of the year which makes sure to fully immerse with natureBut there is a chance of occasional snowfall at the higher altitude in the seasons which requires extra gear and preparation. 

 

Arrival and Visas

As you arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, the staff at the airport will help you get the visa as quickly as possible. You have to pay nominal charges ( USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, and USD 125 for 90 days) to get the visa. We would recommend you bring cash for the visa procedure which ensures fast transactions as digital options might not be readily available. After you get your visa, Our team will welcome you to Nepal and drive you to your comfortable hotel where you rest and prepare for the trek. 

 

A day in the trek

We will start the day early to witness the beautiful sunrise across the majestic mountain range, after watching the view. We will be served a delicious breakfast then we will start the hike. The hike will take us to the destination within 4-7 hours depending upon the trail. We will explore the village, learn their culture and lifestyle have dinner at the guest house and settle for the night. 

 

The difficulty of Tilicho Lake Trek via Thorong La Pass

The Trek to Tilicho Lake and then Thorong La Pass is very famous for its diverse landscapes and scenic views. The trek itself is demanding, both physical and mental as we climb up to the altitude of 5416 meters. 

The trek demands a good level of physical fitness and we recommend you to have previous trekking experience. The trail includes steep climbs and diverse terrains so you should pack your hiking boots with good ankle support and grip. 

 

Altitude Sickness

Any altitude over 3000 meters is considered to hold the risk of altitude sickness. Symptoms like Headache, fatigue, vomiting, and insomnia are some symptoms of altitude sickness. We highly suggest you talk to the guide who is experienced and trained to handle these situations. 

The highest point of the trek is 5416 meters at Thorong La Pass, which is the hardest part of the trek to conquer. Simple practices like staying hydrated, taking enough rest and taking things slowly are some of the good practices we will follow throughout the trek to avoid altitude sickness. 

 

Food and Accommodation

We offer you the most comfortable accommodations that the place has to offer. Most of the parts which we will be trekking are remote and you should be prepared to embrace the basic facilities the guest houses offer. You will be staying in guest houses throughout the trek with basic facilities run by local families. 

Food plays a very important role throughout the trek be it with the energy we get or help us adjust to the altitude. The local guest houses at higher altitudes offer you wholesome local meals that feature traditional Nepalese dal bhat and fresh vegetables. We suggest you have fresh local vegetables that help you adjust to the altitude. Also, The lodges at lower altitudes will provide you with amenities beyond basics.

 

Personal Expenses on Trek

For Tilicho Lake Trek with Thorong La Pass, we offer you our standard package which includes three meals each day, accommodations, permits to explore the region, and transportation costs within Nepal. Although the package covers most of the heavy expenses you should remain informed about possible additional expenses

Personal expenses completely depend upon you, your preferences and your generosity. The package doesn't include snacks, drinks, additional meals and other nominal charges at accommodation like wifi charge, electricity charge etc, tips to porters and guides. 

FAQ

Are private rooms available in Kathmandu and during the trek?

In Kathmandu, we can make arrangements for a private room for an extra fee. However, it's not guaranteed when trekking. While it's nearly impossible to find a private room during the peak season of the year, tea houses may be able to provide private rooms for an extra fee during the off-season.

Will I get a vegetarian meal option during the trek?

Yes, vegetarian food is available in a lot of teahouses. Therefore, it wouldn't be an issue if you are a vegetarian or choose not to take any meat items while hiking.

Is it possible for me to wash my clothes while on the trek?

Laundry services are usually available at hotels in Kathmandu. Although there won't likely be a laundry facility along the path, you could wash your light clothes in a stream of water or with tap water during your acclimatization day.

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