Lake Tilicho

Nepal comprises of high altitude mountain lakes formed from the glacial origin. Lake Tilicho, the lake located at 4,949m high altitude (highest in the world) in the Manang district of Annapurna Range. Among the different trek to Annapurna regions, Tilicho Lake trek is famous for its religious point of view as many Hindu pilgrims from around the world visit this lake.

Plethora of trekkers undertake tilicho lake trek route to tryout its difficult level and to explore the bizarre charm of the glacial lake. Jagged trekking trails, ecstatic snow clad mountains, sub-tropical forest, tropical forest and alpine forest during the Tilicho lake trek are a real refreshment. The trek provide some majestic panoramic view, great variety of culture and diversity, finest deep valleys and high mountains enclosing the gigantic Annapurna Himal.

Tilicho lake trek days requires 2 week of leisurely walk from mustang through the high Himalayas in Nepal. The Trek starts through a jeep ride from Besisahar up to Manang and short trek on foot to famous Annapurna circuit route, which goes along the Marsyangdi River valley, with great views of Manaslu and Himal Chuli to the east. Everyday we will see the different landscapes as the trail start from subtropical climate and end at the snow line.

After making world’s elevated almost 4,919 m/16,134 ft thrilling Tilicho lake, trekkers move towards Yak Kharka, 5,416 meters high elevation of Thorung La pass and finally to the bottom of Muktinath at 3,800 m/12,464 ft. No doubt, this part of tilicho lake trek is toughest. On the way, we will pass through every type of vegetation zone from lush sub-tropical to harsh semi-desert and the highest trekking passes in the world.

However, Tilicho lakes come one right after the other and there is a new and challenging spectacle one look forward to. Most alpine meadows start at around 1000 meters, when you have just crossed the tree line. On most high altitude treks in Nepal you’ll encounter meadows from a condense forest, mostly of pine, juniper and rhododendron. During the trek, sudden change in views are just startling and beautiful.

The place is rich with the wide range of people and terrain, sub-tropical to high, dry landscape resembling the Tibetan Plateau. The trail leads you to the fine village inhabited by a wide diversity of people from different ethnic groups. Tilicho lake will be a perfect destination for those who aspire to venture into some of the less trodden remote regions of Nepal apart from the regular trekking routes.

Some of the most beautiful lakes are also to be found in Nepal; Rara Lake in Mugu district of western Nepal, Damodar Kund (4,890 m) in Mustang district, and Shey-Phoksundo (3,500 m) in Dolpa of far western Nepal. Tilicho, a high altitude lake trek, will keep you regaling your experiences for years to come. Take on the challenge of this difficult trek and the rewards will be immeasurable and a lifetime experience.