Tilicho Lake
In Nepali: तिलिचो ताल
Tilicho Lake lies in a stark basin west of Manang, fed by glaciers falling from Tilicho Peak and the Grande Barrière. Its deep blue water is frozen much of the year, and it is often described as one of the highest large lakes on earth.
The side trip from Manang takes two or three days via Khangsar and Tilicho Base Camp, crossing a notorious landslide section; some trekkers continue over the Mesokanto La to Jomsom. Hindus identify the lake with the Kak Bhusundi lake of the Ramayana.
What to see and do
From Tilicho Base Camp, climb about three hours on switchback trails to the lake's viewpoint, where the frozen or deep blue water sits beneath hanging glaciers. The walk from Khangsar crosses a long scree slope with dramatic eroded pinnacles.
Good to know
Start early from base camp; afternoons are windy. The landslide section can have falling rocks — cross quickly and do not linger. Some lodges at base camp may be closed in winter. Crossing onwards to Jomsom via Mesokanto La requires camping and a guide.
Quick answers
- Where is Tilicho Lake?
- Tilicho Lake is in Manang district, Gandaki Province, in the Himal belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Tilicho Lake?
- About 4,919 m (16,139 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Tilicho Lake?
- For a 5-day trip from Pokhara, about NPR 26,000 (≈ US$195) per person on a budget, or NPR 39,500 (≈ US$295) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food, entry fees, a guide and porter. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 13,000 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Tilicho Lake?
- Plan 3 nights there for the trek; with travel from Pokhara and back, about 5 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Tilicho Lake?
- Foreign visitors pay about NPR 3,000 / US$22 to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP) (SAARC visitors about half, Nepali citizens a small fee).
- Do I need a guide for Tilicho Lake?
- Yes, for foreign trekkers: since 2023 a licensed guide is required in Nepal’s national parks and conservation areas. Nepali trekkers may go on their own.
- When is the best time to visit Tilicho Lake?
- October–November; April–May
- How do I get to Tilicho Lake?
- 2–3 day side trip from Manang. It is about 54 km (straight line) from Pokhara.
- What is Tilicho Lake called in Nepali?
- तिलिचो ताल
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