tilicho-trek

Tilicho Lake and Thorong La Pass Trek

●●●●● 4.9 · 60+ TripAdvisor reviews

Trek to a 4,919m glacial lake and cross one of the world's highest trekking passes on a single 17-day route.

Duration 17 Days
Difficulty Hard What does this mean?
Max Altitude From 4,600 feet at Kathmandu to 17,769 feet at Thorong La pass 17,769
Best Season Sep-Dec | Mar-May
From USD $973 Check Dates & Price

On The Trail

What It Really Looks Like
17 photos
Mountainkick ABC trek welocme dinner
Besisahar view from top
Guesthouse at Chame
Chame to Dhikur pokhara route
on the way to Ngawal
Welcome to Manang
On reaching Mananag
Trekker enjoying the view on the way to Annapurna Circuit trek
Trekkers resting at a suspension Bridge on the trail to the Annapurna Circuit trek in Nepal
Tilicho lake part of annapurna circuit trek
Photo time at Yak Kharka
Thorung phedei trail
Female trekker at Thorong La Pass 5416m — Annapurna Circuit Nepal
Jomsom-muktinath-trek
Kathmandu Pokhara Tour
Tourist enjoying rickshaw ride in Kathmandu durbar square in Nepal tour
See off at TIA Kathmandu
Trip Overview

Tilicho Lake and Thorong La Pass Trek — What to Expect

17 days · From 4,600 feet at Kathmandu to 17,769 feet at Thorong La pass

Two High-Altitude Objectives

Tilicho Lake at 4,919m and Thorong La Pass at 5,416m on one route

Built-In Acclimatisation

Reaching 4,919m at Tilicho three days before the pass gives your body a real advantage

Licensed Local Guides

Government-licensed guides who know the landslide section and the pass conditions firsthand

Fly Out of Jomsom

20-minute scenic flight between Annapurna and Dhaulagiri instead of two days on the road

This 17-day route combines two Annapurna objectives into one trip. You follow the classic circuit from Chame through Manang, divert west to Tilicho Lake at 4,919m, then cross Thorong La Pass at 5,416m before flying out of Jomsom. Most days are 5 to 6 hours on moderate terrain with two very demanding days at altitude.

Day 10 is the lake push: pre-dawn start, 800m climb through rocky terrain and the notorious landslide traverse, then the turquoise water of Tilicho Lake appearing below the ridge. Day 13 is the pass: 4:00am departure, 5 hours to 5,416m, then 1,700m descent into Mustang. Having already reached 4,919m three days earlier, your body is well prepared. Prior trekking experience at altitude is strongly recommended.

Your MountainKick guide knows the landslide section, the pass conditions, and every teahouse from Chame to Jomsom. No outsourcing, no subcontracting. The guide makes the call each morning.

Trail highlights:

  • Tilicho Lake at 4,919m: one of the highest alpine lakes in the world, 4km long, encircled by Tilicho Peak (7,134m)
  • The landslide traverse between Shree Kharka and Base Camp: the most technically demanding and memorable section on the route
  • Thorong La at 5,416m: Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and the Mustang plateau in every direction
  • Braga Monastery: 900 years old, bronze statues and ancient thangkas still intact
  • Muktinath Temple: 108 water spouts and an eternal natural gas flame at 3,710m
  • Kagbeni: medieval mud-brick village on the edge of restricted Upper Mustang

For a full comparison of Annapurna routes read our Annapurna Circuit vs ABC guide.

Private Pricing 1 $1376 2-3 $973 4-7 $860
See Available Dates
The Full Journey

Day-by-Day Itinerary

17 days · Guided by local Sherpa

Altitude Profile
5,416m 2,988m 560m
Summit
D1 D2 D3 D4 D5 D6 D7 D8 D9 D10 D11 D12 D13 D14 D15 D16 D17
Altitude profile
Summit — From 4,600 feet at Kathmandu to 17,769 feet at Thorong La pass
Hover/tap for details

Arrival in Kathmandu

Tribhuvan International Airport → Thamel 1,400m / 4,593ft

Your guide meets you at arrivals and transfers you to the hotel in Thamel. That evening we hold a pre-trip briefing covering the full route, the Tilicho approach, acclimatisation strategy, and what to expect on the two big altitude days. Bring your passport for permit paperwork. Thamel’s gear shops are open late if you need anything last-minute.

Day Stat Airport transfer · 20-30 min
Stay 3-Star Hotel, Thamel
Mountainkick ABC trek welocme dinner

The tourist bus departs Gongabu Bus Park at around 7am, following the Prithvi Highway northwest along the Trishuli River. The 175km drive takes 7 to 8 hours with stops at Naubise and Muglin. The road narrows from Dumre and gets rougher as you approach Besisahar. First views of the Annapurna range appear as you near town.

Day Stat 175km · 7-8 hrs
Meals Breakfast included
Stay Guesthouse, Besisahar
Besisahar view from top

A private jeep takes over from the bus. The 66km road from Besisahar to Chame is entirely off-road, following the Marsyangdi River through deep gorges, past waterfalls and cliff-edge villages including Jagat, Tal, and Dharapani. Expect 4 to 5 hours of bumpy riding. Chame is the district headquarters of Manang and a good place to stock up on snacks and supplies. There is a natural hot spring in town.

Day Stat 66km · 4-5 hrs by jeep
Stay Guesthouse, Chame
Guesthouse at Chame

The first full day on foot follows the Marsyangdi River through dense pine forest before opening into a wider alpine valley. The trail passes Bhratang, a small village with apple orchards, and the curved rock face of Paungda Danda rising over 1,500m from the river. From Lower Pisang a short steep climb leads to Upper Pisang, with the first direct views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak.

Day Stat 14km · 5-6 hrs · 630m gain
Stay Guesthouse, Upper Pisang
Chame to Dhikur pokhara route

Take the high route without hesitation. A steep switchback climb from Upper Pisang reaches Ghyaru at 3,730m, perched on a cliff edge with Annapurna II, III, and IV filling the horizon. The landscape shifts noticeably here — drier, more open, juniper scrub replacing pine forest. You are entering the rain shadow behind the Himalayan barrier. Ngawal is a quieter, more traditional stop than Manang.

Day Stat 10.6km · 4-5 hrs · 360m gain
Stay Guesthouse, Ngawal
on the way to Ngawal

A shorter day with a gentle descent from Ngawal through wind-sculpted rocks and stunted pines. Stop at Braga before Manang to visit its 900-year-old monastery, one of the oldest in the Manang district, housing ancient thangkas and bronze statues. Manang has good teahouses, bakeries, a cinema, and the Himalayan Rescue Association clinic. Afternoon is free to rest and explore.

Day Stat 9.1km · 3-4 hrs · slight descent
Stay Guesthouse, Manang
Welcome to Manang

Do not rest completely. Active acclimatisation is far more effective than staying in bed. Hike to Gangapurna Lake at 3,900m for a short morning option, or push to Ice Lake at 4,600m for serious preparation before the Tilicho approach. Both return to Manang for the night. In the afternoon attend the free altitude sickness lecture at the HRA clinic — it covers AMS symptoms, the landslide section, and Thorong La conditions.

Day Stat 5-10km round trip · 3-5 hrs depending on route
Stay Guesthouse, Manang
On reaching Mananag

Leave the main circuit trail at Manang’s western gate, cross the river and follow the Jarsang Khola valley through sparse juniper and conifer forest. Khangsar is the last inhabited village before the Tilicho approach, a Tibetan settlement with flat-roofed stone houses and a monastery. From here the landscape opens into high alpine terrain. Shree Kharka sits in full view of Tilicho Peak, Gangapurna, and Annapurna III.

Day Stat 9km · 3.5-4 hrs · 500m gain
Stay Guesthouse, Shree Kharka
Trekker enjoying the view on the way to Annapurna Circuit trek

A shorter day in distance but not in intensity. After Shree Kharka the trail reaches the landslide zone — roughly 1km of narrow, loose scree with significant drop-off on one side and active rockfall from above. Cross early, move steadily, keep poles in hand. Beyond it the landscape is completely barren and lunar, unlike anything on the route so far. Base Camp sits directly below Tilicho Peak. Set an alarm.

Day Stat 6km · 3 hrs · 450m gain
Stay Guesthouse, Tilicho Base Camp
Trekkers resting at a suspension Bridge on the trail to the Annapurna Circuit trek in Nepal
Snap time before crossing the suspension bridge
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Alarm at 4:30am. The 800m climb from Base Camp takes 3 to 4 hours on steep, rocky terrain. Cross the landslide section again before first light while the ground is firm. As you crest the final ridge, Tilicho Lake appears below — 4km of turquoise water encircled by Tilicho Peak, permanent snow and total silence. No settlements. No noise. Spend time at the shore then descend to Base Camp for lunch and continue to Shree Kharka before afternoon winds build.

Day Stat 15km round trip · 8 hrs · 800m gain
Stay Guesthouse, Shree Kharka
Tilicho lake part of annapurna circuit trek

Descend from Shree Kharka back through Khangsar, pass the ruins of old upper Khangsar and a thousand-year-old monastery, then cross the Thorong Khola on a wooden bridge to rejoin the main Annapurna Circuit. The trail climbs gradually through open yak pasture. After two demanding days at altitude this is a welcome recovery day. Blue sheep are commonly spotted on the rocky slopes above the trail.

Day Stat 10km · 3-4 hrs · slight gain
Stay Guesthouse, Yak Kharka
Photo time at Yak Kharka

A deliberately short day. The trail climbs through completely open, barren terrain with the pass looming above. Most trekkers push the extra 400m to High Camp at 4,850m to reduce tomorrow’s elevation gain. Facilities are basic and cold at both stops. Eat a full meal, drink at least 3 litres of water, and sleep by 8pm. Your guide will confirm the departure time based on conditions.

Day Stat 6.5km · 3-4 hrs · 400m gain
Stay Guesthouse, High Camp
Thorung phedei trail

Depart at 4am with headlamp, full cold-weather layers, and at least 2 litres of water. The 5 to 6 hour climb to Thorong La at 5,416m is relentless but steady. Prayer flags and a small teahouse mark the summit. Having reached 4,919m at Tilicho Lake three days earlier your body is genuinely prepared for this. The descent is 1,700m into the arid Mustang plateau. Muktinath temple with its 108 water spouts and eternal natural gas flame marks the end of the crossing.

Day Stat 16km · 8 hrs · 570m gain · 1,700m descent
Stay Guesthouse, Muktinath
Female trekker at Thorong La Pass 5416m — Annapurna Circuit Nepal

Start early. The Kali Gandaki valley funnels a powerful afternoon wind that makes the final stretch to Jomsom miserable if you leave late. The trail passes through Jharkot, a fortress village on the ridge, then drops to Kagbeni, the medieval mud-brick gateway to restricted Upper Mustang with a red monastery dating to the 13th century. From Kagbeni the route follows the Kali Gandaki river south to Jomsom.

Day Stat 14km · 5-6 hrs · 1,000m descent
Stay Guesthouse, Jomsom
Jomsom-muktinath-trek

The 20-minute flight passes between Annapurna and Dhaulagiri at close range before landing in Pokhara by mid-morning. Flights depart early and are weather-dependent — occasional cancellations happen, with an 8-hour jeep ride as the alternative. Check into your lakeside hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure. Phewa Lake is a 10-minute walk. The afternoon is yours after 13 days on the trail.

Day Stat 20 min flight
Stay 3-Star Hotel, Pokhara
Kathmandu Pokhara Tour
Kathmandu Pokhara Tour

The tourist bus follows the Prithvi Highway back to Kathmandu, 200km in 7 to 8 hours with stops at Muglin and Naubise. Arrive by early evening. That night your guide takes you to a local restaurant for a farewell dinner of dal bhat, momos, and traditional Nepali dishes. A good moment to let 15 days of mountains sink in.

Day Stat 200km · 7-8 hrs
Meals Breakfast and farewell dinner included
Stay 3-Star Hotel, Kathmandu
Tourist enjoying rickshaw ride in Kathmandu durbar square in Nepal tour

Breakfast at the hotel then a private transfer to the airport timed to your flight. Luggage stored with us during the trek can be collected before you head out. If you have time before departure, Boudhanath is 20 minutes by taxi and worth a final morning visit.

Day Stat Airport transfer · 20-30 min
Meals Breakfast included
See off at TIA Kathmandu
See off at TIA Kathmandu
Visualise The Route

3D Route Map

Explore the full trek in 3D — drag to rotate, scroll to zoom, tap any marker for location details.

3D satellite terrain with interactive route
Loading terrain…
Summit / Key waypoint
Camp / Overnight stop
Trek route
Drag to rotate · Scroll to zoom · Tap markers for details
What's Covered

Includes & Excludes

Everything in your package — and what to budget for separately

What's Included 16
  • Airport transfers in Kathmandu Private vehicle, arrival and departure
  • 3-star hotel in Kathmandu 2 nights, twin-sharing, breakfast included
  • 3-star hotel in Pokhara 1 nights, twin-sharing, breakfast included
  • Teahouse accommodation on trek 13 nights, twin-sharing throughout
  • Tourist bus Kathmandu to Besisahar Departs Gongabu Bus Park
  • Jeep Besisahar to Chame Off-road 4WD, 4 to 5 hours
  • Jomsom to Pokhara flight 20-min scenic flight
  • Tourist bus Pokhara to Kathmandu Return journey Day 16
  • Government-licensed trekking guide NTB-certified, English speaking, full trek
  • Porter service 1 porter per 2 trekkers, 20kg load limit
  • All staff costs Salary, insurance, equipment, food and accommodation
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) Required entry permit for the Annapurna region
  • TIMS card Trekkers' Information Management System
  • Oximeter and first aid kit Carried by guide throughout the trek
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu Traditional Nepali meal with your guide
  • Duffel bag Yours to keep as a souvenir
Not Included 10
  • International flights To and from Kathmandu
  • Nepal visa fee 15 days $30 / 30 days $50 / 90 days $125, available on arrival
  • Travel insurance Mandatory. Must cover helicopter evacuation to at least 5,500m
  • All meals on trek Budget $30 to $40 per day. Teahouses serve breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara Except the farewell dinner
  • Personal trekking gear Sleeping bag, trekking poles. Rentable in Kathmandu or Pokhara
  • Hot showers, Wi-Fi, battery charging Small charge at teahouses, typically $2 to $5 each
  • Guide and porter tips Customary. Roughly 10-15% of the trip price
  • Jomsom flight cancellation Jeep alternative
  • Personal expenses Snacks, bottled water, laundry, souvenirs
Why we don't bundle trek meals Teahouse menus are open, fixed and fair — dal bhat costs the same whether you book with us or walk in alone. We'd rather you order what you want, when you want it, than pay upfront for meals you might skip at altitude. Budget $25–40 per day for food on trek.
Optional Upgrades

Enhance Your Trek

Kathmandu sightseeing Full day guided tour of Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Entrance fees included. From $85 per person
Private vehicle KTM to Besisahar Door to door in 6 to 7 hours. More flexible than the tourist bus, no fixed stops. On request
Pokhara to Kathmandu Flight 25-minute flight instead of the tourist bus. Saves a full day each way. On request
Complimentary Services

We Handle the Details — At No Extra Cost

Gear Shop Guidance Free
We take you to the right rental shops in Kathmandu. No tourist traps and no overpriced gear.
SIM Card Coordination Free
We help you get a local SIM in Kathmandu so you are connected from day one.
Luggage Storage Free
Leave your city bags with us while you trek and collect on return.
Airport Pickup and Drop Free
Private vehicle. We meet you at arrivals and see you off at departure.
Pre-Trek Briefing Free
In-person gear check and full route briefing the evening before your trek begins.
Questions about what's included? Our team replies within a few hours — happy to clarify anything before you book.
Ask Kumar a Question →
Accommodation & Food

Where You'll Sleep & What You'll Eat

Honest information about accommodation and food on this trip — so you know exactly what to expect and how much to budget.

Hotel Vistara for Langtang trek
Where you'll stay

Three distinct tiers on this trek. Kathmandu and Pokhara are 3-star hotels with private bathrooms and breakfast included. From Chame to Manang, teahouses are well-established with twin rooms, shared bathrooms, and solar hot water. Manang itself has some of the best facilities on the entire Annapurna Circuit, including bakeries and warm dining halls with wood stoves. Above Manang, at Shree Kharka, Tilicho Base Camp, Yak Kharka, and High Camp, facilities are minimal. Rooms are unheated with thin walls, shared squat toilets, and no reliable electricity. Bring a sleeping bag rated to -10°C. Single rooms are available on request in lower villages but not guaranteed above Manang.

  • Kathmandu and Pokhara: 3-star hotel, private bathroom, breakfast included
  • Chame to Manang: teahouses, shared bathroom, solar hot shower at extra cost
  • Shree Kharka and Tilicho Base Camp: very basic, unheated rooms, squat toilets, no electricity
  • High Camp and Thorong Phedi: minimal facilities, cold nights, bring all your layers to bed
  • Jomsom and Muktinath: better teahouses on descent, some with attached bathrooms
  • Sleeping bag rated to -10°C is non-negotiable on this route
Food & daily budget

Teahouse menus follow the same pattern from Chame to Jomsom: dal bhat, garlic soup, noodle soup, fried rice, pasta, momos, eggs, pancakes, and ginger tea. Dal bhat is always the safest and most nutritious option, cooked fresh with unlimited refills, available everywhere. Do not eat meat above Manang. The conservation area prohibits butchering and most teahouses above that point have no refrigeration. Vegetarian food is available at every stop. In Jomsom and Muktinath expect Thakali cuisine, buckwheat pancakes, mutton dishes, and apple products from the Mustang orchards. Prices increase significantly with altitude. Tilicho Base Camp and High Camp charge the most as everything is porter-carried. Wi-Fi and mobile signal become unreliable above Manang. Budget $30 to $40 per day for three meals and drinks on trail.

Meals on trail $30 to $40 / day
Meals at Tilicho Base Camp and High Camp $40 to $50 / day
Hot shower $3 to $5
Wi-Fi (Chame to Manang only) $2 to $3
Battery charging per device $2 to $3
Bottled water $1 to $3
Real Trekkers · Verified Reviews

What Our Trekkers Say

4.9
★★★★★ 50+ reviews on TripAdvisor Read all reviews →
These reviews are from verified trekkers who completed this trip with MountainKick. 50+ reviews · 4.9 average on TripAdvisor.
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Got Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything trekkers ask us before booking the Tilicho Lake and Thorong La Pass Trek — answered honestly.

This trek is rated Hard (Level 4 on our scale). You sleep at 4,850m the night before Thorong La and cross at 5,416m the following morning. The Tilicho Lake approach involves a narrow, exposed landslide traverse and an 800m pre-dawn climb to 4,919m. Daily walking averages 5 to 8 hours, with two days exceeding 8 hours. No technical climbing skills are required but prior trekking experience at altitude is strongly recommended. If you have never trekked above 3,500m before, we recommend doing the Annapurna Base Camp or Gokyo Valley trek first. See our full trek difficulty guide for context.

Yes. This is not a beginner trek. You need to be comfortable hiking 6 to 8 hours per day on rocky, uneven terrain, have some prior experience at altitude above 3,000m, and be fit enough to push through fatigue on the two hardest days. Fit beginners with good preparation have completed this route, but we recommend at least one previous multi-day trek in your history. If you have completed the Poon Hill or Mardi Himal treks and handled them well, you are physically in the right territory.

Start training at least 8 to 10 weeks before departure. Focus on cardiovascular endurance, leg strength, and loaded hiking. Run or cycle 4 to 5 times a week. Do long hikes of 4 to 6 hours on consecutive days carrying a 5 to 6kg pack. Stair climbing and incline treadmill work are useful if you have no local hills. The key preparation area is sustained uphill effort — the Thorong La climb gains 570m over 5 to 6 hours at altitude. Your body should be used to sustained effort before you arrive.

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the two reliable windows. Autumn has the clearest skies and best mountain visibility after the monsoon. Spring is slightly warmer with rhododendrons in bloom on the lower sections. October and November are the most popular months. Avoid winter (December to February) when Thorong La and the Tilicho approach can be buried in snow and most teahouses above Manang close. Avoid monsoon (June to August) when the landslide section becomes genuinely dangerous and trail conditions deteriorate significantly.

Altitude sickness is a real risk on this route. You sleep at 4,850m at High Camp, reach 4,919m at Tilicho Lake, and cross 5,416m at Thorong La. The itinerary is designed to manage this gradually with an acclimatisation day in Manang and the Tilicho approach acting as a natural altitude primer before the pass. Our guides carry oximeters and monitor oxygen saturation daily from Manang onward. If your readings drop significantly, we descend. No schedule is worth risking HACE or HAPE. Speak to your doctor about Diamox before you travel. Read our full altitude sickness guide for a detailed breakdown of symptoms and prevention.

The landslide zone sits between Shree Kharka and Tilicho Base Camp and is approximately 1km long. The trail is narrow, cut into loose scree on a steep slope, with active rockfall from above. You cross it on both Day 9 and Day 10. It is not technical but it demands full attention, no headphones, and good footwear. We cross early in the morning when the ground is frozen and rockfall is minimal. Afternoon crossings when the sun warms the slope are significantly more dangerous. Your guide manages the timing. Do not rush this section.

Two permits are required: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) at $30 USD and the TIMS card at $20 USD. Both are included in your MountainKick package price. We handle all paperwork before you leave Kathmandu. Bring your passport and two passport-sized photos to the pre-trip briefing. Permits are checked at multiple checkpoints including Besisahar, Chame, Manang, and Jomsom. Carry your originals at all times. For full 2026 permit details read our Nepal trekking permits guide.

Yes. Since April 2023 Nepal requires all foreign trekkers on designated routes including the Annapurna region to trek with a licensed guide. Beyond the legal requirement, this route genuinely needs one. The landslide section, the pre-dawn Thorong La crossing, the Tilicho Base Camp approach in poor weather, and the teahouse network above Manang all require local knowledge that no map or guidebook replaces. Your MountainKick guide has crossed Thorong La and reached Tilicho Lake many times. That experience is the most practical safety measure on this trek.

The Tara Air or Summit Air flight takes 20 minutes and passes directly between Annapurna and Dhaulagiri at close range. Flights depart early morning before the Kali Gandaki valley winds build. Weather cancellations happen, particularly in spring and autumn when afternoon clouds roll in. If your flight is cancelled the alternative is a private jeep from Jomsom to Pokhara, which takes 7 to 9 hours on a rough road. We always build buffer days into the itinerary for this reason. Travel insurance is essential.

Budget for: international flights, Nepal visa (15-day $30 / 30-day $50 / 90-day $125), travel insurance, all meals on trek ($30 to $40 per day, higher at Base Camp and High Camp), hot showers and Wi-Fi ($3 to $5 each), guide tips ($8 to $12 per day) and porter tips ($5 to $8 per day), and any personal gear you need to buy or rent in Kathmandu. Most trekkers spend an additional $500 to $650 on top of the $973 package price.

Your policy must cover emergency helicopter evacuation to at least 5,500m. This route reaches 5,416m at Thorong La. A helicopter evacuation from the pass area without insurance can cost $4,000 to $6,000. Make sure your policy also covers trip cancellation, medical treatment, and altitude-related illness. Carry a printed copy of your policy and your emergency contact number throughout the trek. Do not assume your standard travel policy covers high-altitude trekking — check the fine print. Read our travel insurance guide for what to look for.

The standard Annapurna Circuit skips Tilicho Lake and follows the main trail from Manang directly to Thorong Phedi. This trek adds the Tilicho Lake detour, which means three extra days, a separate landslide traverse, sleeping at Tilicho Base Camp, and an 800m pre-dawn push to 4,919m before rejoining the circuit. The payoff is reaching one of the highest alpine lakes in the world and arriving at Thorong La better acclimatised than trekkers who came straight up from Manang. It is a harder route but a significantly richer one. Our Annapurna region comparison guide breaks down all route options in detail.

Still Have Questions? Kumar answers personally — usually within a few hours. No call centres, no scripts.
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Departure Dates & Pricing

Fixed group departures run year-round. Can't find your date? Every trip runs privately on dates that work for you.

Year
Month
Trip Starts Trip Ends Status Price
SEPTEMBER 2026
4 Sep 2026 17 days 20 Sep 2026 available $973
11 Sep 2026 17 days 27 Sep 2026 available $973
18 Sep 2026 17 days 4 Oct 2026 available $973
25 Sep 2026 17 days 11 Oct 2026 available $973
OCTOBER 2026
2 Oct 2026 17 days 18 Oct 2026 available $973
9 Oct 2026 17 days 25 Oct 2026 available $973
16 Oct 2026 17 days 1 Nov 2026 available $973
23 Oct 2026 17 days 8 Nov 2026 available $973
30 Oct 2026 17 days 15 Nov 2026 available $973
NOVEMBER 2026
6 Nov 2026 17 days 22 Nov 2026 available $973
13 Nov 2026 17 days 29 Nov 2026 available $973
20 Nov 2026 17 days 6 Dec 2026 available $973
27 Nov 2026 17 days 13 Dec 2026 available $973
DECEMBER 2026
4 Dec 2026 17 days 20 Dec 2026 available $973
11 Dec 2026 17 days 27 Dec 2026 available $973
18 Dec 2026 17 days 3 Jan 2027 available $973
25 Dec 2026 17 days 10 Jan 2027 available $973
MARCH 2027
2 Mar 2027 17 days 18 Mar 2027 available $973
9 Mar 2027 17 days 25 Mar 2027 available $973
16 Mar 2027 17 days 1 Apr 2027 available $973
23 Mar 2027 17 days 8 Apr 2027 available $973
30 Mar 2027 17 days 15 Apr 2027 available $973
APRIL 2027
6 Apr 2027 17 days 22 Apr 2027 available $973
13 Apr 2027 17 days 29 Apr 2027 available $973
20 Apr 2027 17 days 6 May 2027 available $973
27 Apr 2027 17 days 13 May 2027 available $973
MAY 2027
4 May 2027 17 days 20 May 2027 available $973
11 May 2027 17 days 27 May 2027 available $973
18 May 2027 17 days 3 Jun 2027 available $973
25 May 2027 17 days 10 Jun 2027 available $973
No departures match your filter. Show all dates
Payment Schedule
  • 1
    20% Deposit — Due on booking Secures your place on the departure. Refundable within cancellation window.
  • 2
    80% Balance — Due on arrival Pay the remainder in Kathmandu before the trip begins. Bank transfer, card, or cash accepted.
  • 3
    Bhutan & Tibet — Full payment 20 days prior Full balance required at least 20 days before departure for Bhutan and Tibet tours.
Cancellation Policy
30+ days before departure Deposit forfeited, balance refunded in full
15–29 days before departure 50% of total trip cost charged
Under 15 days No refund
MountainKick cancels trip Full refund or reschedule
Full Terms & Conditions →
Book with Confidence
10+ yrs, licensed guides Every trek led by a government-licensed Himalayan professional. No outsourcing, ever.
Ethical porter welfare Strict 20 kg load limit and full medical insurance for every crew member. Your trek supports real people.
Community impact Every booking helps fund the Mountain Kick Library — books and education for remote schools on the trail.
100% local, no middlemen Founded and run by Kathmandu veterans. Direct expertise, transparent pricing — nothing hidden.

We give you the power to choose the departure date that suits your group best. A private trip is a perfect solution if you can’t find a published departure date that you and your companions agree on. You can set up a private departure for most of the trips we offer.

Travellers Price Per Person (USD)
1 $1376
2-3 $973
4-7 $860

Ready to go? Request your preferred dates or message Kumar directly on WhatsApp — he'll confirm availability within a few hours.

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MountainKick Expert-led Himalayan Treks · mountainkick.com Tilicho Lake and Thorong La Pass Trek — Packing List
Be Prepared

Packing List

Most items can be purchased or rented in Kathmandu's Thamel district. Your guide reviews your kit at the pre-trip briefing the evening before you fly.

Footwear 4 items
Item Qty Note
Waterproof hiking boots, high-ankle 1 pair Must be well broken in. New boots cause blisters on day 2.
Hiking socks, merino wool 4 Avoid cotton. Merino regulates temperature and resists odour.
Camp sandals or flip flops 1 pair For teahouses after long days. Your feet will thank you.
Waterproof gaiters, light 1 pair For the loose scree and landslide section between Shree Kharka and Tilicho Base Camp.
Do not bring new boots. Break them in on at least 3 to 4 long walks before you fly.
Item Qty Note
Thermal tops, synthetic or merino 2 Wear one, keep one dry. Never cotton.
Thermal bottoms 1 Sleep in one set, trek in the other.
Fleece jacket 1 Main mid-layer for daytime trekking.
Down jacket, 700 fill or higher 1 Essential above Manang. Worn every evening from Shree Kharka onward. Rentable in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Waterproof jacket, Gore-Tex or similar 1 Must have a hood. Used daily above Chame.
Waterproof pants 1 Doubles as wind protection above Manang.
Trekking pants, quick-dry 2 pairs Quick-dry only. No jeans, ever.
Underwear, moisture-wicking 5 pairs Quick-dry synthetic or merino. 17 days on trail.
Sun hat, wide-brimmed 1 UV is intense on open ridges above Pisang and on the Thorong La approach.
The layering system is everything on this trek. Temperature swings 20 degrees between midday and evening above 4,000m.
Item Qty Note
Warm beanie 1 For early morning starts and cold evenings.
Liner gloves, touchscreen compatible 1 pair For phone use on trail without removing gloves.
Insulated gloves, windproof 1 pair Liner gloves alone are not enough above Manang or on the Thorong La crossing.
Neck gaiter or buff 1 Protects against wind, dust, cold and the Khumbu Cough.
Sunglasses, UV protection 1 Standard UV lenses sufficient. No glacier terrain on this route.
The pre-dawn Thorong La crossing at 5,416m is the coldest moment on this trek. Pack everything in this section in your daypack the night before the pass.
Item Qty Note
Daypack, 25 to 35L 1 Rain cover essential. This stays with you all day.
Sleeping bag, rated to minus 10 to minus 15 degrees 1 Sufficient for this route. High Camp at 4,850m is the coldest night. Rentable in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Sleeping bag liner 1 Adds warmth and keeps rental bags cleaner.
Trekking poles, collapsible 1 pair Critical for the landslide section and the 1,700m descent from Thorong La to Muktinath.
Headlamp and extra batteries 1 Essential for the 4am Thorong La departure. Cold drains batteries fast.
Reusable water bottle, 1L 1 Plastic bottles are banned in the Annapurna Conservation Area. Boiled water available at all teahouses.
Water purification tablets or UV purifier 1 Saves money and reduces plastic waste on trail.
Power bank, 10,000 to 20,000mAh 1 No reliable electricity above Manang. Keep in sleeping bag overnight to prevent cold drain.
Your porter carries the duffel. Your daypack is for daily essentials only. Keep it under 5kg.
Item Qty Note
Personal first aid kit 1 Your guide carries a kit and oximeter. Personal kit should include blister treatment and second skin. Day 10 Tilicho push is the highest blister risk day.
High protein snacks As needed Trail mix, protein bars. Teahouse food is mostly carb-heavy.
Sunscreen SPF 50 1 Reapply every 2 hours above Manang. UV intensity is extreme on open terrain.
Lip balm with SPF 1 Lips crack fast at altitude without protection.
Talk to your doctor about Diamox before you leave. You sleep at 4,850m at High Camp and reach 5,416m at Thorong La. Discuss it seriously before departure. It is available in Kathmandu but better prescribed beforehand.
Item Qty Note
Quick-dry towel, microfiber 1 Teahouses do not provide towels.
Hand sanitizer 1 small Water can freeze overnight above Shree Kharka and at High Camp.
Biodegradable wet wipes 1 packs Showers above Namche are rare and cold.
Toilet Paper 2 rolls Teahouses can run out. Carry your own.
Laundry services are limited on the trek. Hand-wash quick-dry clothes during your rest day in Manang.
Item Qty Note
Passport, valid 6 months minimum 1 Keep a photocopy separate from the original.
Travel insurance document 1 Must cover helicopter evacuation to 5,500m. Print a hard copy.
Cash, Nepali rupees As needed Budget $30 to $40 per day for standard stops, $40 to $50 at Tilicho Base Camp and High Camp.
Trek permit copies 1 set We handle the permits. Carry copies at Besisahar, Chame, Manang and Jomsom checkpoints.
No ATMs exist past Besisahar. Carry all cash from Kathmandu or Pokhara in small denominations. Teahouses above Manang charge more — budget extra for Base Camp and High Camp nights.
Item Note
Insulated waterproof gloves Liner gloves not enough for the pre-dawn Thorong La crossing in winter.
Balaclava Full face protection for sub-zero wind chills
Insulated Pants (fleece-lined) Windproof layer for High Camp and the pass crossing.
Extra Thermal Top A third base layer for the coldest nights above Manang.
Item Note
Rain Cover for Backpack Your daypack will get soaked without one
Waterproof Gaiters (heavy) Upgrade for mud and water on trail above Chame.
Dry Bags (2-3) For electronics, documents, and dry clothes
Extra Quick-dry Layers Nothing dries overnight during monsoon
Monsoon is not recommended for this trek. The landslide section between Shree Kharka and Tilicho Base Camp becomes genuinely dangerous in heavy rain, and most teahouses above Manang close during the wet season.
Rent or Buy in Kathmandu

Sleeping bags and down jackets can be rented in Kathmandu or Pokhara before the trek. Trekking poles are best purchased in Thamel or Pokhara. We connect you with trusted shops at the pre-trip briefing. A duffel bag is provided to every trekker as part of the package.

Leave These at Home

What Not to Bring

Jeans Heavy, zero insulation when wet, takes days to dry
Cotton clothing Absorbs sweat, stays wet, causes chills at altitude
Full-size towel Heavy and bulky. Microfiber only.
Laptop No need and you will regret the weight
Excessive toiletries Wet wipes are your friend above 4,000m
Valuables / jewellery Unnecessary risk. Leave at the hotel in Kathmandu.
Print / Download Checklist — to save as PDF, choose Save as PDF in the print dialog
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Tilicho Lake and Thorong La Pass Trek

Kumar and the team have guided this route for over a decade. Ask anything — gear, fitness, altitude, private groups — before you commit.

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