Manang Tilicho Trek – 13 Days

The first day of the Manang Tilicho Trek is a travel day from Kathmandu to Chamje that is scenic, offering you the best of the Annapurna region. The drive will be in the direction of the Prithvi Highway. Along the way, there will be great views of the Trishuli River, terraced farmlands, lush green hills, and picturesque villages. If you want to spend less time on the road, you can do the trek during a 12 day Tilicho Lake and Annapurna Circuit] trip Lunch stops at Besisahar (760m)—a bustling town and the traditional starting point of the Annapurna Circuit.

The journey starts on a smooth, asphalt road connecting Dhulikhel, Mugling and Dumre.The course of the Trishuli and Marshyangdi Rivers is almost synchronous with the road. There are endless snow-capped peaks—the Ganesh Himal and Manaslu ranges can be observed from time to time. Lunch stops at Besisahar (760m)—a bustling town and the traditional starting point of the Annapurna Circuit.The road gets rough and bumpy, the drive is almost like an off-road adventure.A hilly area with a waterfall and a deep valley full of cliffs.

The road becomes rough and bumpy and leads to a completely different off-road journey.The way goes through Syange, which not only is beautiful but also allows for a sight of waterfalls and deep crevices.Before you arrive at Chamje, you have to make your way through several suspension bridges and go past Jagat (1,300m).
,br> Chamje Village: A beautiful and quiet village right by the Marsyangdi river. Chock-full of ancient stone houses, small hotels, and gardens.Place where everyone can relax and get ready for a trekking adventure of a lifetime.
Accommodation & Meals: Accommodation: Teahouses or lodges with simple facilities. Meals: Homey specialties like Dal Bhat, momos, noodle soup, and also a variety of hot drinks.

The Manang Tilicho Trek second day showcases the lush forests, deep river valleys, and traditional villages to you. The trail goes to the Marsyangdi River and goes over suspension bridges, stone staircases, and narrow paths on the hillsides.

The journey will change the surroundings and take you to a Manang district, which is an enormous transition in the trek. The risk begins on a steep and rocky uphill path. You will be crossing a suspension bridge over the Marsyangdi River and then, you will be moving through the bushes. From Tal, which is a beautiful, picturesque village, you can look down at the wide, flat valley formed by the ancient glacier. Tal is actually famous for its waterfalls, it also has a predominantly Tibetan-style culture, and there are stone houses there.

The trail continues along the riverbanks with gradual ascents and descents. Pass through small settlements, waterfalls, and cliffs.Cross wooden and suspension bridges over the Marsyangdi River.The trail continues along the riverbanks with gradual ascents and descents.Pass through small settlements, waterfalls, and cliffs.Cross wooden and suspension bridges over the Marsyangdi River.Karte to Dharapani (1,960m) (1–2 hours)The last part of the trip is a light walk amidst pine forests and isolated villages. Dharapani, the Annapurna Circuit and Manaslu Circuit treks high.

Dharapani is a slightly bigger village, with better accommodation options, a checkpoint, and a wonderful view of Annapurna II and Manaslu. The last part of the trip is a light walk amidst pine forests and isolated villages. Dharapani, the Annapurna Circuit and Manaslu Circuit treks high.

Today is just the start that will take us to other more exciting paths into the epicenter of Annapurna.

The third day of the Manang Tilicho Trek is there to literally let you acquire better insights into this Annapurna region, where the trail makes Marsyangdi River its companion all the way through dense woods, peaceful villages, and rugged landscapes. The landscape change is easy to spot as you go higher—from rich vegetation to the point where it is all dry, highlands. Get to Chame, the Manang district authorized center and, treat yourself to the presence of numerous mountain views and hot springs of natural occurrence.

Bagarchhap is a Tibetan-influenced village with the presence of the traditional stone houses and a Buddhist monastery (1 -- 1.5 hours) (2,160m) a gentle uphill walk through pine and fir forests. Lower parts of the forest where the sun rays can't penetrate are dominated by pine trees, while upper parts of the forest are made up of fir trees which are very beautiful in February. Bagarchhap is a typical Tibetan village with numerous stone-built houses. These villages are very common in mid-trek.

A steep climb through rhododendron and pine forests(1 -- 1.5 hours) (2,360m) A green and lush area that has small, colorful flowers and whistling birds. There is a crowd of children around you. Your journey will not go unnoticed as soon as you begin your ascent. Annapurna II (7,937m) and Manaslu (8,163m) are the peaks that you will be able to see as you climb up. The people of Timang during the summer season are mostly busy harvesting their matching paddy fields where millet, corn, and potatoes are also grown. Timang is a peaceful village that is known for its versatility during different seasons and the great mountain scenery.

Marsyangdi River still keeps you company as you gradually descend on the .to path until you get back to where you had left the riverside. You will reach Thanchok and Koto towns where you will be crossing the trekkers aiming for Nar Phu Valley Trek who will be taking the opposite way. Finally, reach the suspension bridge before arriving in Chame. The trail gradually descends and the Marsyangdi River is the only visible body of water. . Pass through Thanchok and Koto, where trekkers heading towards the Nar Phu Valley trek take a separate route. . Cross a suspension bridge before entering Chame.

A short and easy walk will bring you to Chame, which is the district headquarters of Manang.Chame is a well-developed town with lodges, shops, bakeries, and natural hot springs.It is a major hub in the Manang region with banks, trekking shops, and medical facilities. The place is beautiful and has views of Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, and Pisang Peak.

This day indicates an upgrade on the altitudinal scale, presenting higher, more severe mountain scenery and a taste of the Tibetan-influenced culture of Manang.

The Manang Tilicho Trek on the 4th Day will take you far into the Marsyangdi Valley. Here the nature of the land changes from thick forests to alpine landscapes. Along the trail are the Marsyangdi River, a series of spectacular cliffs, mani walls, and traditional villages. The view of Annapurna II (7,937m), Annapurna IV (7,525m), and Pisang Peak (6,091m) is astounding as you rise up in elevation.

The day will be concluded in Upper Pisang, a traditional village that is in the style of the Tibetans and is well known for its prayer flags, monasteries, and the awe-inspiring mountain backdrop. Start with an easy walk through pine and fir forests.Pass apple orchards and farms in Bhratang, where fresh apples and dried apple snacks are available.

Start with an easy walk through pine and fir forests. Pass apple orchards and farms in Bhratang, where fresh apples and dried apple snacks are available.Walk along a dramatic steep rock face known as Paungda Danda, a giant curved rock formation rising 1,500m above the valley.

Bhratang to Dhikur Pokhari (3,060m) (1.5–2 hours) Cross a suspension bridge over the Marsyangdi River.The trail continues gradually uphill between high alpine landscapes and providing beautiful views of Annapurna II.At Dhikur Pokhari, a small settlement with a few teahouses and a beautiful pond. Cross a suspension bridge over the Marsyangdi River.The trail gradually ascends through alpine landscapes, offering stunning views of Annapurna II.Arrive at Dhikur Pokhari, a small settlement with a few teahouses and a beautiful pond. Dhikur Pokhari to Upper Pisang (3,300m) (1.5–2 hours) The last part of the track is a continual uphill path until the final destination is reached, which includes high altitude terrains. Upper Pisang is the endpoint of this section, a classic village along the way with the characteristics of Tibetan houses, a wide number of monasteries, and a beautiful Annapurna range.

It is the last section where the process is moving higher, with more and more exposure to high altitude terrains. Upon arrival at Upper Pisang, a traditional and beautiful village with Tibetan-style houses, a Buddhist monastery, and a beautiful view of the Annapurna range will be the rewards for this stage.

A village in the Himalayas that is rich in prayer wheels, stupas, and a monastery. Most famous for sights like those of Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, and Pisang Peak. The place gives off a healing and untouched by modern life vibe. This ensures a peaceful, spiritual experience. Houses along the tracks, popularly known as teahouses where with the provision of basic and comfortable structures. Food from Dal Bhat, pasta, garlic soup (best for altitude acclimatization), and Tibetan bread.

The following day's trek to Manang is one of the most breathtaking parts of the excursion and will amaze with the 360° views of Annapurna II and the Marsyangdi Valley.

On the trek’s fifth day, the Annapurna Circuit, which begins in Lower Pisang (3,200 m) or Chame (2,670 m), takes trekkers to Manang (3,540 m), a must stop for acclimatization before climbing higher in the Himalayas. The distance covered is approximately 10-12 km (6-7 miles), and it usually takes about 5-6 hours, not counting any rest and waiting for the weather to improve.

The path upwards from Lower of Upper Pisang is a gradual climb through arid zones, pine forests, and rocks that are almost carved by wind, the experience will be even more spectacular if you reach there in the right season. Additionally, you are required to color in the blank with the name of the occasion described.

The route to the Lower Route (Easier, follows the Marsyangdi River) – It goes down the river and passes through Humde offering a small airport and traditional villages. Other villages that are sometimes visited include Munji and Meta. The Upper Route (More scenic but challenging) – This way leads to Ghyaru and Ngawal, which offer the best views of Annapurna II, III, IV, and Gangapurna, but it's a bit tough Upper Route (More Scenic, Challenging) and suitably challenging.

In any case, the path is the same and eventually one would reach Braga, a tranquil village high on a hill that has an ancient Tibetan-style monastery built in it (Braga Monastery). It can be seen from a distance because of the beautiful dome above its gompa.
When Manang is approached, visitors start the process of acclimatization and adapting to the increasing altitude. This beautiful village is surrounded by large and icy mountain peaks — for example, Tilicho Peak (7,134 m) and Gangapurna (7,455 m).

The Manang Cultural Museum is worth the time to see how local Gurung and Tibetan-influenced people lead their lives.The Gompa (monastery) can be visited for a spiritual experience.Trek to Gangapurna Lake which is one of the best glacier-fed lakes you can ever come across..Have a wonderful time at local bakeries which are well-known for their daily fresh pastries and coffee.

The whole idea of this day is not only going through the steep but also receiving the culture, the scenery that makes your heart pound faster and higher altitudes preparation of your body.

While Day 6 is for rest, Ice Lake is indeed the right place to visit. The new altitude is not going to be dangerous if you go to places high up, so that’s exactly what people are advised to do. Ice Lake (4,600m) – Challenging & Rewarding A strenuous 5- to 6-hour round-trip hike will guide you to Ice Lake (Kicho Tal), a magnificent high-altitude lake that mirrors the nearby snow-capped peaks. The route is steep, gaining an ascent of more than 1,000 meters, thus making a very fine acclimatization climb but a difficult one indeed. You will be rewarded with the majestic views of the Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and Chulu Peaks.

The sea-green lake, surrounded by an alpine environment, may freeze in the winter season and hence shall provide an additional attraction. A one-day round trip with a total climb of 1000 meters would lead up to Ice Lake, a very beautiful lake at a high altitude reflecting the snow-capped peaks of the range.

< It is a steep climb gaining at an altitude of more than 1,000 meters which is a bit strenuous but quite a good acclimatization climb. On the way, the views of Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and Chulu Peaks are just a breath away from you.
The alpine environment of the turquoise lake is often frozen in the winter season yet always quite a beautiful sight to behold.Pursuing the challenge a little bit if you are adequately fit then offers a hike to Gangapurna Lake (3,900m).There is a much shorter 1- to 2-hour route for the ones who are not into climbing in Manang that also is very picturesque which one could find ideal.

The lake, which is fed by the glacier, is just below the huge Glacier Gangapurna, and the reflection of the mountains looks quite surreal. A short walk from the lake, at a higher altitude, is a viewpoint which provides a fantastic sight of the surrounding areas and an excellent place for acclimatization.

If you are not aware, Manang is the last major village when you are crossing to Thorong La Pass (5,416m) and it is important to acclimatize properly. You go higher with the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness, even if you are feeling strong. It is possible to reduce the risk by taking the extra day, moreover, it will be more enjoyable, and you will have a successful trek afterward. Therefore, staying in Manang for two nights will be the best thing to do.

You can spend the day exploring and rest before starting the next journey to Yak Kharka (4,050m) a day after.

The 7th day of the trek is a new adventure that will take you on a detour to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m) which is the first stop leading to Tilicho Lake (4,919m), considered one of the highest lakes in the world. This way of trekking provides wonderful views, rough terrain, and isolation as very few trekkers walk on this path in comparison to the main Annapurna Circuit. The walk starts with a separation from the main Annapurna Circuit and then trekkers follow the western bank of the Marsyangdi River.

The way to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m), and the following day, starts off with a gentle uphill climb, which takes you to Tengi and Khangsar, familiarity with the legendary 9th-century stone architecture Tibetan Buddhist villages.Further on the trail, the trekkers are bestowed with splendid sights of Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak.

After Sri Kharka, where there is a village with a very small population and only a few lodges and teahouses, the path to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m) becomes narrower and steeper.When approaching this point, the landscape of the area starts to resemble a barren and windswept high-altitude desert.It is the most dangerous and difficult section which has a part passing along a place that is easily affected by landslides and has two narrow and precipitous trails.

As a safety measure, hikers should be vigilant enough to avoid a fall caused by the unstable footing with debris, stones, and gravel.The scene is an unforgiving setting of severe nature with a wall of cliffs on one side and a deep gorge on the other.You will reach Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m) after a long but careful climb, a small village with some teahouses serving food and offering a place to spend the night.

Unsurpassed and commanding vistas of Tilicho Peak (7,134m) and the Annapurna range.Very rare high desert areas of altitude where rocks with very unusual shapes are found.The animal kingdom too says hi in the form of a blue sheep, Himalayan griffons, and some others.

As the path to Tilicho Lake (4,919m) is still 3–4 hours further, hikers stop for the night at Base Camp to acclimate properly before launching the challenging climb the next morning.The next day will be very kind to a trekker as he/she will get a great chance to take pleasure in the sunrise over Tilicho Lake, which is a spellbinding natural wonder located in the upper parts of the Himalayas.

One of the quintessentially difficult, yet satisfying adventures is the excursion to Tilicho Lake (4,900m), one of the highest lakes in the world, which is at an amazingly high altitude and is surrounded by the Himalayas. The trek starts early in the morning (around 4:00-5:00 AM) so that the afternoon winds that may blow by the lake do not disrupt your trip.

The first part of the trail that goes up steep will later become a somewhat winding path through rocky ground in the latter part that is covered with debris.The terrain is known for its lack of vegetation, almost as though it were a deserted lunar surface.The increasing altitude has the effect of making the air thinner so a slow but sure pace must be kept all the way.

After ascending to Tilicho Lake, you will be greeted with an unbelievably breath-taking view of a glacial lake, with such a vivid turquoise tint, which is beautifully placed in front of the peak of Tilicho (7,134m), Gangapurna, and the Annapurna range.Be astounded by the magnificent view of the snow-capped mountains all around you.

Observe the calm and clean lake which looks like a mirror and is also partially (if it is the season) covered with ice.Be sure to stop and get used to the altitude, and at the same time, appreciate the peace and quiet of this secluded holy place.

With the wind being too strong and the cold being too severe, trekkers generally do not spend more than 30-45 minutes at the lake before the descent is there anymore. After that, the same route will be used in the return journey; however, it is important to remember that despite the hardships it may be of proprietary descent through falling pebbles and cliffs and numerous obstacles.During the afternoon, the winds usually gust, which makes it harder to walk down the trail.

After making it to the Tilicho Base Camp, trekkers recover and recover from the high-altitude scene by having a chat and a bite to eat, and then they walk down to the next base.

On the ninth day of the trek, the pass to be crossed is Mesokanto La Pass ([5,099m] 5,099m), which is an alternative and a far more difficult one if compared to the Thorong La Pass. This pass is beautiful but is also the most distant and difficult one to obtain, which is why the views of the Tilicho region, Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and the Kali Gandaki Valley are great. The descent, which leads to Yak Kharka (4,020m), is abrupt and challenging and therefore it needs to be negotiated very carefully. The dawn start of the trek between 3:00-4:00 am was to climb the pass before the high wind hours were expected.

The climb took place on deadly moraines and was complicated by scree-covered slopes.When you are ascending, the oxygen droplets go down considerably which, in turn, makes climbing quite hard.The final part of the trail is the steepest and most arduous, with wind-exposed narrow ridgelines making it even more challenging.

Once there, the Annapurna mountain range, far-flung from Tilicho Lake, and the wide-open rain shadow area of Mustang come into view.This pass has a number of people much less than Thorong La, thus it provides a feeling of being alone and a taste of adventure.The topography here is such that the sudden downward move is a mix of rock, ice, and ground, both of which are loose and dry as well as icy and rocky.Particularly, if the ground is snow-covered, step-by-step walking is needed for safety.

Further down, the land changes from being ice-covered to being gently rolling grasslands for grazing sheep.At last, you hit Yak Kharka (4,020m), a favored stop on the Annapurna Circuit, where hikers take a breather before venturing to Thorong Phedi or Ledar. By the time they reach Yak Kharka, they usually feel extremely tired but still very happy, and take a good rest there in preparation for the next hike to Thorong Phedi or Ledar.

Day 10 is the day you get to do the amazing and quite difficult while descending into the arid, wind-blown lands of the Mustang region and you will be reaching Jomsom (2,720m), the administrative center of the entire Mustang district. The journey has so much to offer since it changes from alpine terrain of high altitude to the valley of Lower Mustang which looks like a desert.

Yak Kharka → Kaisang (3,200m) [3–4 hrs] It starts with the path being relatively steep and steering left through cheese liquor mountains and suchlike then decreases to less and less steepness becoming a mesmerizing view of Nilgiri (7,061m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m), and the Kali Gandaki Valley. It becomes still more wild-like and dry, very much like the Tibetan plateau. When you are at Kaisang, you can observe the unique nature of Mustang that is its barren rocky cliffs, red rock formations, and wide open valleys.

Kaisang → Jomsom (2,720m) [4–5 hrs] During your further way down, you are going down to the region of the Lower Mustang, its major characteristic being the strewn and the human-sized landscape presents wind-shaped rocks with lots of green trees and traditional Tibetan-style villages which are the only human settlements in the region that you'll pass.

Where you are walking, you will recognize the Kali Gandaki River beneath your feet. This river has the deepest gorge of the world and gives the hiker the best viewpoints of Tilicho Peak, Nilgiri, and the Annapurna range during this descending part of the journey.

One will surely experience the gale blowing mercilessly and the difficulty these winds provoke as they embark on the last lap to Jomsom. Once the trekkers step on Jomsom, they will definitely notice a lot of basic necessities, bakeries, and guesthouses, which means a complete change from the mountain desert trek to a more modern and comfortable walk at a lower altitude.

After walking this journey many trekkers take a break in Jomsom to relax and restore their energy by enjoying the caring of this lively town. and then they can decide whether they would like to take the scenic flight to Pokhara or proceed to visit Muktinath and Kagbeni. A myriad of festivals are celebrated by the local population and they will give an extraordinary chance for visitors too to have a totally different experience of being within the caring local people of this region.

On Day 11, the flight between Jomsom (2,720m) and Pokhara (820m) provides a breathtaking experience which is refreshing and exhilarating as it was just one short leg of the entire exploring the Annapurna and Mustang regions trek.

The normal takeoff schedule for airplanes around there in the early morning hours (6:00-9:00 AM) was intended to prevent the strong winds and climate unpredictability that could lead to the delays of the flights during the day later in Jomsom.

The aerial route through the beautiful high Himalayas is mainly operated by small planes such as the Twin Otter or Dornier aircraft, which offers unique and beautiful views of the Kali Gandaki Valley, deeply flanking gorges, deserted Mustang, and snow peaks.Strong winds and gusts are the major factors for delaying, cancelling or even disrupting airports and the planes, so it is a good idea to plan a spare day while you are in Pokhara.

Once they land in Pokhara, the city which is known as the adventure capital of Nepal, trekkers can expect to enjoy a good climate, the greenery of the surroundings and quiet natural beauty away from the busy city streets. People have many options after their arrival in Pokhara: they can enjoy boating, spa & massage, Phewa Lake, and Lakeside cafe or visit the nearby sights of the Davis Falls, the World Peace Pagoda. For adventurous travelers, Pokhara is home to activities such as paragliding, zip-lining, and boating.

The flight itself is the best way to end the journey, providing the trekkers a time to recollect their foot trip while being at peace and in the lap of lovely Pokhara.

Duration: This trip from Pokhara to Kathmandu takes between 6 and 8 hours and can be done using a tourist bus or private car. The distance is about 200 km.
Route: The path follows the lava of the Prithvi Highway heading over and down rivers, terraced fields, and lovely hillside villages.
Best For: The prime beneficiary of this opportunity is the one who is interested in the day-to-day life of the local people and be a mediator of the beautiful and green countryside of Nepal at the same time.
Considerations: The road is quite rough, and this can be caused by heavy traffic or even landslides during the monsoon.

Upon arrival, trekkers have the chance to relax, wander around Thamel's markets, taste local food, or even sightsee in places like Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) and Kathmandu Durbar Square. Most probably, trekkers will opt for a grand dinner to celebrate the completion of their adventure.

Key Highlights & Considerations Flying presents an option which is both a quick and very scenic return to be able to get the most out of the trip, on the other hand, by going by car, the traveler gains contact with more local culture, history, and nature. Stock one or two more days in Pokhara as a backup plan in case bad weather keeps the planes grounded, hotel, or souvenir shopping to be done. This dictates for rest, reflection, and souvenir buying. Keep in mind that there might be a change of plans from the mountains to the urban area, giving a good last view of the nature of the country.

The day has a nodal point, where the mountaintop experience is over, and the person will be back to the city, what peak experience it was, and yet some of Nepal's beauty.

The completion of Day 12's account of your exciting Himalayan exploration also marks the day of leave, and therefore a very good Himalayan trekking trip you will remember for a long time is coming to an end. If time allows due to your flight schedule, you may have some time which you can spend in Kathmandu taking a stroll before going to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA).

Relish a delicious breakfast at your hotel or a café in Thamel. Grab a few things as presents at local shops as handicrafts, singing bowls, prayer flags, or pashmina shawls can be good gift items. Make a last visit to a nearby cultural site such as Pashupatinath Temple or Boudhanath Stupa to have the best spiritual experience possible.

The vast majority of hotels and trekking agencies can arrange and provide a private transfer to the airport. (It's usually 30–45 minutes' drive from Thamel, depending on traffic).It is best to be at the airport at least three hours prior to departure of your international flight.Wave the majestic view of the Himalayas goodbye as you take off, remembering every single detail of your journey.

Key Highlights & Considerations Revisit all the great things that happened to you during the trek. If possible, extend your stay in Kathmandu to do more exploring or to cover any changes in flight dates.Schedule your next trip to Nepal, perhaps the Everest Base Camp, Langtang, or Upper Mustang?

Through your visit to Nepal, you have taken away the invaluable treasure of memories, beautiful photos, and the love for the Himalayas and Nepali hospitality. Best wishes and the journey will always be safe!