Nep Travels : Tilicho lake

Tilicho lake trek is a very interesting twist to the classic Annapurna Circuit route. Tilicho lake is considered to be highest lake of the world. Tilicho lake is a beauty piece surrounded by high peaks from all the sides. There are many trekking options to Tilicho lake, but very few options are used as official route due to difficulty and high risk in the others. Many who take Annapurna Circuit also add Tilicho lake to their itinerary. However, you will need extra days to do it together. Our itinerary to Tilicho lake involves Annapurna circuit with two days excurion to Tilicho lake.

This trekking similar to Annapurna Circuit begins from Besisahar. We will take bus from Kathmandu and directly arrive at Besisahar. From Besisahar, we will then walk towards village of Chamje, Bagarchapp, Chame, Upper Pisang, Manang and then to Tilicho lake. We will rest for a day before we reach Tilicho lake. After a day excursion to Tilicho, we will head down to Muktinath and join our Annapurna Circuit trek.

Cost Includes:

12 night accommodation with 3 meals a day during trek

2 night accommodation in Kathmandu on Bb plan

1 night accommodation in Pokhara on Bb plan

All entrance and Permit charge

Licensed Guide and Porter

All transfer; airport drop pick up

Bus fare Kathmandu to Besisahar

Air fare Jomsom to Pokhara

Air fare Pokhara to Kathmandu

Farewell Lunch or Dinner

All government taxes

Day 01: Arrival to the capital of Nepal, Kathmandu

Welcome to Nepal. First day you’re in Nepal. Our representative will be at the airport to receive you and transfer to Hotel. Our manager will meet you at hotel or where convenient and brief you about the trek along with introduction to guide of the trek. Overnight at Hotel on B plan.

Day 02: Kathmandu to Besisahar (820 m)

In the morning, after breakfast we will take bus and move to the village of Besisahar. This will be a long travel journey about 8 hours of driving. When you are approaching to Besisahar you can catch some glimpse of mountains on the way.

Day 03: Besiahar to Chamje (1,385 m)

We will start morning with drive to Syangje. We will take a steep downhill to start, as we head in the direction of Bahundanda. We will cross the Marsyangdi River and continue our trail where rock landscapes will be replaced by the passage of green jungles and waterfalls. A picturesque path will take place first along the left and then right (relative to our movement) slopes of the canyon of the Marsyardi River.

Day 04: Chamje to Bagarchhap (2,160 m)

Another interesting day of our trek where we will step to Tal, first village of the Manang district. As we continue to head towards Dharapani our paths will be more rugged and windy. When we reach to Bagarchhap we can see small stupas and chortens surrounding us.

Day 05: Bagarchhap to Chame (2,710 m)

Today we will make your way towards Chame. On the way we can see old roads that were used years ago to carry out trade with Tibet. When we walk ahead we can see people and monuments which have high Tibetan culture influence. We can catch some glimpse of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV if the weather allows.

Day 06: Chame - Upper Pisang (3,250 m)

Amazing beauty views open on the way: on the left side of the summit are Lamjung Himal (6893m) and the spurs of Annapurna, and on the right side of the valley is the peak of Pisang (6095 m). From the village of Pisang we will see a view of the Annapurna Massif, the peaks - Annapurna 2 (7937m), Annapurna 3 (7555m), Gangapurna (7454m), and Tilicho Peak (7134m).

Day 07: Upper Pisang - Manang (3,540 m)

The upper path from Pisang to Manang is very picturesque. We can see lots of lakes and spruce forests. Along the way, there are wonderful views of Annapurna 2, Annapurna 3 and Gangapurna (7455m). There are 2 variants of the transition to Manang, the upper path is more beautiful, but more complex and lower trail is more simple and short. Those who get tired over the previous days can go along lower trail to save strength.

Day 08: Manang – Tilicho Base Camp or Rest day at Manang

We have two options for this day. You can either rest at Manang and acclimatize or continue trekking towards Tilicho. If you choose to rest at Manang then you can hike to Ice Lake and Milarepa Cave.If you want to continue then ,from Manang begins a two-day radial exit to Lake Tilicho, we will leave to the left of the main track of the track around Annapurna to the valley of the Kangsar (Khangsar Khola). The second part of the path will be accompanied by very unusual landscapes that resemble the Martian surface.

Day 09: Excursion to Tilicho Lake (4,919 m)

Tilicho Lake is one of the highest mountain lakes in the world. Those who love mountain tourism are attracted by the picturesque panoramas of the lake, as well as magnificent views of the "Great Barrier" - the mountain wall connecting the peak of Tilicho with the main part of the Annapurna massif. Today, those who are wishing to climb the lake Tilicho should get up at 3 am and depart at 4 am. The ascension itself with the return to the base camp will take about 8 hours, but the panoramas that open your eyes will eclipse and dissolve all your fatigue. And even if we are not lucky and the lake will be frozen or under snow, the maximum closeness to the glaciers that descend from the slopes of the seven thousand meter peaks will leave you with an unaccountable impression and the feeling that you are almost an alpinist today. We will now head towards Shri Kharka for overnight stay.

Day 10: Shri Kharka to Yak Kharka (4,018 m)

We return to the main track of the Annapurna circuit, without going to Manang (slightly cut the road). Yak Kharka serves the most delicious Yak Steak on the entire track, I recommend trying it.

Day 11: Yak Kharka to Thorung Pedi (4,450 m)

We will continue our journey along the gorge along the Thorung Khola River. We will climb up and go downs and finally make up to our today’s destination, Thorung Phedi.

Day 12: Thorung Pedi to Thorung La Pass (5,416 m) to Muktinath (3,800 m)

12^th day of trekking is one of the interesting and best day. You will have to wake up at 3 am in the morning and set out for Thorung La pass. You must arrange your time and get to the point before noon. On the way you might have to face stong wind and sometimes heavy snowfall. Our path has a steep climb but it’s not dangerous. Once we get at the top, we can see beautiful view of Dhaulagiri peak and Tashi Kang. Without any delay we will make early descend to Muktinath (3800m).

Day 13: Muktinath to Jomsom (2,710 m)

Muktinath is one of the holiest city of Nepal. There is a heavy flow of tourist to Muktinath temple all year around. Not only Buddhist but even Hindus visit to the temple. We will now walk toward Jomsom. The city of Jomsom was once the capital of the ancient kingdom of the Mustang, where the Tibetan culture has survived to this day. We will go aside to the very picturesque village of Lupra (Lupra). In this village is the Gompa of the pre-Buddhist shamanic faith, Bon religion. After a day excursion at Jomsom we will now spent last night of trekking at Jomsom and prepare for tomorrow’s early departure.

Day 14: Flight to Pokhara

After 30mins of flight we will now arrive at Pokhara. Pokhara is a beautiful city with natural and cultural attractions. As our flights will land by afternoon we will have rest of the afternoon to explore around Pokhara. There are many options like you can go for boating at Fewa lake or go for sightseeing at Cave and temples within the city. Overnight at Pokhara

Day 15: Pokhara to Kathmandu

As our trekking officially ends here, we will now leave for Kathmandu. There are two options; one by flight another by roadways. This depends on your personal choice but we suggest to take flight cause roadways might be too tiring after two weeks o trekking. Upon arrival at Kathmandu, our representative will transfer to hotel.

DAY 16: Departure

Say goodbye to the mountains, because your journey through Nepal has come to an end! We hope that you liked the trip organized by us, and we are sure that you will return to the Himalayas! Approximately 3 hours before the departure of your aircraft, our representative will take you to the airport. On the way home, you have enough time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.

Cost Excludes:

Visa Fee (free for Indian, Chinese and SAARC nationalities except for Afghans)

Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara

Travel Insurance

Rental charge for sleeping bag and down jacket

Expenses during trek like charging electronic devices, WI-FI, hot shower, toilet paper rolls, mineral water, and other personal items

Tips to guide and porter

Travel Insurance:

About the travel insurance we suggest our guest to take those insurance which covers all emergency case or other travel related injury during your travel in Nepal. However, this is optional and it depends on your opinion. If you are buying any insurance you can buy which covers for a week or only for days you will be in Nepal.

There are many insurance companies, but we suggest you to get World Nomad. They have emergency evacuation even up to 6000m. But before you get it make sure you are covered for such evacuation. For those who already have insurance of other company, make sure if it covers travel insurance in Nepal and especially evacuation up to 6000m. Link for World Nomads is www.worldnomads.com

Cancellation and Refund:

Although it’s rare but sometimes we might cancel trip due to some internal problems, in such a case you will be refunded full amount of package. If guest wish to cancel trip then money will be refunded as following:

Cancelled one month before arrival full refund

Cancelled 15 days before arrival 75% refund of total cost

Cancelled one week before arrival 50% of total cost

Cancelled less than a week 25% refund of total cost

No Show No refund

Equipment and Accessories

Trekking on the high altitude area there is some requirement of equipment.

Sunglasses

Sunhat, cap or Scarf

Woolen hat

Head light and torches

Gloves

Thermals

Fleece

Comfortable trekking boots

Fleece pants

Jackets, down jacket

Sleeping bag rated to -20°C

Trekking poles

Trekking bag or Duffel bag

Water bottle

Sunscreen

Toiletries

Spare battery (if you have any to charge your electronic devices on the way)

Can I travel alone without guide, just with a porter?
Well it’s your choice whether you want a guide or not. But what we suggest you, is to take a guide because there are thousands of solo traveler missing in Nepal. If there is a guide to assist you, you don't have to worry about where to stay for a night; how to find your way, how do you arrange your everyday trip and how do you take care of yourself if there are any bad happenings. Moreover, mountains are not like city area where you will find many to communicate, In the mountain very few speak English, and we remind you not to believe anyone you meet on the way cause there are good and bad people everywhere.
What age people can trek in the Mountains?
There is no limit in age unless you are below 18 yrs. old. Everyone can trek if their physical strength allows them. If there is kid interested, then he/she must be accompanied by his/her parent. For those above 18 don’t have any restriction. Before you choose any trekking destination consult with your physician and then go for that which you can complete.
How long is the trekking? How long will be the walking trail?
Trekking depends on the kind of package you choose. There are packages of a week and even of 3 weeks and more. When you are trekking average hour you will trek is four to six hours, in some cases 7 hours a day, which will be minimum of 7km and maximum 15 km of walking in a day.
Is it compulsory to have previous trekking history?
No, if this is your first time then it's OK. Not all the trekkers have previous experience. There are many beginners who do well than those experienced ones. Before you come to Nepal indulge yourself in some walking or stamina building sports, so that it becomes easier for you to even walk for 6 hours a day.
What things do I need to prepare before coming to Nepal?
Documents:
You will require documents like passport, color copies of passport, passport size photo graphs, if you are below 18 and travelling with friends, you will require a written document by your parents (travel agreement), if you are going under medication, written prescription by doctor is required. Besides these, if there are any other compulsory documents we will inform you during booking. For any other information you can check our travel essentials where information about Customs, Visa and Travel tips is given.
Equipment:
You will require that equipment which is listed in Equipment list. Please check there. You are free to carry other item if you need even if not mentioned in the list.
Travel Insurance:

Apart from this, most important thing you will require is Travel insurance. As, we've said it's optional but it’s better if you have one. There are many insurance companies, but we suggest you to get World Nomad. They have emergency evacuation even up to 6000m. But before you get it make sure you are covered for such evacuation. For those who already have insurance of other company, make sure if it covers travel insurance in Nepal and especially evacuation up to 6000m. Link for World Nomads is www.worldnomads.com
What permits are required and who will arrange it for us?
For every trekking, either short or long you will require permits. For all trekking region you will require TIMS (Trekker's Information Management System). We will get it for you and you should prepare a photograph for it. Another is National Park permit. For every trekking region which falls under national park or conservation area, you will require permit. Another is for trekking in restricted area like Upper Mustang and Upper Dolpo where you will need a special permit which will be given for a week or limited days. If permit gets expired you will have to pay extra per day.
When should I travel to Nepal?
Nepal has two tourist seasons one is spring and other is autumn. Spring season is February to May. Autumn is late August till mid-November. Summer in Nepal receives heavy rainfall which makes trails slippery and dangerous. There are many avalanches in Mountain during this time, so we suggest not to travel during summer. Another is winter; winter in mountains is too cold. Temperature drop to -20°C. There is snowfall and due to bad weather flights even get cancelled for 1 week. So, it’s better not to travel in winter as well.
What sort of accommodation and food will be in mountain?
Everything in the mountain will be basic. You will stay in tea houses which is lodges and small hotels in the trekking routes. Accommodation will be in twin sharing basis. You will be given three meals and a drink (coffee, hot chocolate, tea) a day. As you go up wards, you will be served simple food. We suggest you to order vegetarian food cause meat in mountains are not fresh and you may easily suffer from Diarrhea. Mineral water in mountain is expensive than city and it gets more expensive as you go upward. You can buy water purifying pills and drink water which is served in local hotel and lodges by purifying yourself.
What do I need to pack?
This basically depends on which season of year you are traveling. If it is autumn then you should keep in mind that winter is approaching, so it will be cool. If it is spring then you should be aware it gets warmer day by day. Generally in all kind of trekking you will require, a down jacket, a warm fleece jacket, thermal underwear, trekking pants and shorts, trekking boots, a thermal sleeping bag, backpack, and camera. Carry light and few items as much as possible. Just make sure you have all the necessary equipment and clothes. Too much overpacking will trouble you in the end. If you are under medication, carry your medicine. If you want to bring something with yourself for the trek but you don't have it right now, we suggest you not to buy such things. Almost all the necessary gears can be easily bought or be rented at shops in Kathmandu.
Is there any arrangement for single travelers?
Whether you are single or traveling with group, a long as you are traveling with Nep Travels, you will be given a guide. If you are single and want a porter, you have to pay extra $11 per day for a porter. If there is more than one person then, one porter will be provided automatically. Generally, we have porter in 2:1 ratio; two trekkers will have one porter.
How much weight will porter carry?
In an average porter will carry 5kg to 15kg. We recommend you to carry bag of 10-15kg (max.) weight. Try to carry few items as possible. You have to carry your important stuffs by yourself like camera, passport, small day bag and other food (chocolates, energy drinks). Rest other will be carried by porter. So you will have two bags during trekking, one carried by porter another carried by yourself.
What communication options exist while trekking?
Don't forget you are trekking in the remote areas. However, access to mobile and internet is expanding so you can communicate using local mobile card and internet. Many routes offer local VHF phones, while more remote trails, a satellite phone is the only option. Connections are interrupted frequently but it's still OK considering place you are traveling.
What is Altitude sickness? What is acclimatization?
When you are trekking in mountain, as you go upwards oxygen in air decreases. Sometimes you might feel headache, vomiting and nausea followed by dizziness. So when you see these symptoms, you might be suffering from Altitude sickness. So, if you have any such symptoms immediately tell your guide. To avoid altitude sickness you will have to take rest and let your body adjust to the surrounding which is called Acclimatization. If you feel too difficult even after acclimatization the best option is to descend rather than to wait for any rescue.
What to do in emergency cases and injuries?
If there is small injury or accident, then our guide will provide you with first aid. All our guides have received first aid training so this will not be a serious matter. However, your safety comes first. If there is any big accident, then we will take you to nearby hospital. If there is case of emergency than we will immediately contact your insurance and you will be rescued by a helicopter.
How will the case of incomplete trip be handled?
There is rare chance of incomplete trip. However, if there is such incident then we are sorry and please understand we cannot refund you money that you've paid. All the arrangements are done before your arrival, so we have to pay in advance for hotels, lodges, guide and porter. Permit and TIMS once used cannot be refund, so we will not be able to refund your money. If due to climate reasons or our technical problem you cannot start trek, then you can change trekking package and switch to another one.
What about tips to guide and porter?
Well, tips are optional. If you are happy with service then you can tip as much as you want. Many guests avoid tipping to guide and porter. However, guide and porter work hard to make your trip successful, so they expect something from you. So, generally we suggest $80 as tip to porter and guide. Then they will divide within each other. If you are in group then, collect $80 per person then divide equally to guide and porter. We fairly said you the idea of tipping, if you have any other questions related to tipping, please mention them during booking.