Stunning turquoise waters of Tilicho Lake

Locals go about their business in the village of Nar | Stephen White

Trekking to Tilicho

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Annapurna, Nar & Tilicho Lake

Step beyond the standard Annapurna trails into hidden valleys and high passes rarely visited.

Nepal

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19 reviews

20 Days from

$3980 USD

$4190 USD

Trip Code: ATL

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Essential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Single Supplement Hotel Only

$140 USD

Single Supplement Tent Only

$280 USD

Single Supplement

$420 USD

Duration

20 Days

Activities

14 day Trek

Style

In Comfort Adventures

Accommodation

3 nights Hotel
13 nights Wilderness Camping
3 nights Lodge

Meals

Valued at USD$900

16 Dinners
16 Lunches
19 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading

7 / 10

Challenging

Carbon Footprint

23kg of CO₂-e PP per day

(438kg of CO₂-e PP entire trip)

Annapurna, Nar & Tilicho Lake Trip highlights

Experience Nepal’s contrasts, from Kathmandu’s ancient streets and Hindu villages to lush foothills and stark alpine wilderness
Spend 14 trek days traversing some of Nepal’s most secluded landscapes, far beyond the reach of typical Annapurna trails
Venture into the remote Nar and Phu valleys, where Tibetan Buddhist culture thrives in windswept stone villages rarely visited by trekkers
Cross Kang La Pass at 5320m, with sweeping views of the Annapurna, Manaslu and distant Dhaulagiri massifs
Stand on the shores of sacred Tilicho Lake, at 4900m, nestled beneath the sheer face of Tilicho Peak

Overview

An opportunity to step well beyond the familiar Annapurna trails and into the remote, spectacular heart of Nepal. Over 14 days of trekking, you’ll explore lush forests and rugged ridgelines, cross high passes and discover hidden valleys.

Leaving behind the busier sections of the classic circuit, we venture into the wild, secluded valleys of Nar and Phu. Here, time slows among windswept villages steeped in Tibetan Buddhist traditions, offering a striking contrast to the Hindu settlements of the lower foothills. Each day brings new wonder, from ridgelines dwarfed by towering 6000 metre peaks to the dramatic crossing of Kang La Pass at 5320 metres.

We trek to the sacred Tilicho Lake, cradled at 4900 metres beneath the immense face of Tilicho Peak. Only a handful of trekkers set eyes on these turquoise waters each season, making this a truly special place that feels far removed from any guidebook route. As we cross Mesokanto La, surrounded by the world’s highest mountains on every side, the scale of the Himalaya is almost overwhelming.

Rugged, remote and deeply rewarding, this is a journey for those with a spirit of curiosity and adventure, eager to experience Himalayan trekking at its absolute finest.

Itinerary

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You will be met on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport by a World Expeditions representative and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to rest or explore the surrounding area. In the late afternoon, a pre-trek briefing will be held where you receive your kit bag, sleeping bag and down or fibrefill jacket. This evening, you join your group for a welcome dinner, providing an opportunity to meet your fellow travellers. Accommodation: Radisson Hotel

Meals: Nil

You depart Kathmandu early, travelling by road along the Kathmandu–Pokhara highway before turning north at Dumre to follow the Marsyangdi Valley. After stopping for lunch in Besi Sahar, you transfer to 4WD vehicles for the more rugged section of the journey. The drive continues along off-road trails through narrow gorges, waterfalls and villages including Taal, the first settlement in the Manang District. On arrival in Koto, you meet your trekking crew and prepare for the journey ahead. Accommodation: Lodge

Meals: B,L,D

After permits are checked, you leave the main Annapurna Circuit trail and enter the more remote Nar Phu Valley. The trail follows the Nar Khola through forests of pine and fir, offering a quieter and less-travelled route. You stop for lunch at Odar before continuing deeper into the valley. On arrival, you reach Forest Camp, a peaceful campsite with views towards Annapurna II. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping

Meals: B,L,D

You continue your ascent along the Nar Phu Khola, entering a dramatic gorge with waterfalls along the way. The trail leads to the settlement of Meta, where chortens and mani walls reflect the strong Buddhist influence of the region. Beyond Meta, you descend slightly as you make your way towards Nar Phedi. On arrival, you settle into camp in this remote mountain setting. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping

Meals: B,L,D

You continue north through the expansive valley, moving further into the remote landscapes of the Nar Phu region. As you leave the more defined trails behind, the sense of isolation and exploration increases. Along the way, you are surrounded by impressive peaks, including Kang Guru rising to the east. You also pass remnants of abandoned settlements, offering insight into the region’s past. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping

Meals: B,L,D

You continue your gradual ascent up the valley towards the village of Phu. As you move deeper into the region, the landscape becomes increasingly remote and less travelled. On arrival, you reach this isolated settlement near the Tibetan border, characterised by whitewashed houses, mani walls and chortens. The village reflects strong cultural ties to Tibet, offering a distinct contrast to the lower Annapurna region. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping

Meals: B,L,D

You retrace your steps through the valley, returning towards Nar Phedi. As you descend, you are rewarded with changing perspectives of the surrounding peaks. Along the way, there are distant views of Annapurna II across the Marsyangdi Valley. On arrival, you settle back into camp in this remote mountain setting. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping

Meals: B,L,D

You gradually ascend towards the village of Nar, passing barley fields and grazing areas that extend towards the snowline. As you approach, the landscape reflects a traditional way of life shaped by historic trade links with Tibet. Nar is the largest settlement in the region, where daily life centres around farming and local trade. From the village, you have views of Pisang Peak and the Chulu range, adding to the sense of anticipation for the journey ahead. Accommodation: Lodge

Meals: B,L,D

Today is a scheduled contingency and acclimatisation day in the village of Nar. This day is built into the itinerary to allow flexibility in the event of delays earlier in the trek. If the trip is running on schedule, this day may be used elsewhere in the itinerary. Otherwise, you have time to rest and adjust to the altitude in this remote mountain setting. Accommodation: Lodge

Meals: B,L,D

Today is a shorter stage as you continue to acclimatise while ascending towards Kang La Base Camp. The trail leads through increasingly sparse alpine terrain as you gain altitude. On arrival, your camp offers expansive views of the Damodar Range to the north and the Annapurna Range to the south-west. The high-altitude environment, with limited vegetation and juniper, highlights the remoteness of this setting. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping

Meals: B,L,D

You begin early for the ascent to Kang La, reaching the pass where you are rewarded with expansive views across the Annapurna Range and surrounding peaks. From the crest, there are views north towards Thorong La and south down the main trekking valley. You then descend steeply towards the valley floor before continuing through settlements including Ngawal. The day concludes in Braga after a long but rewarding stage. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping

Meals: B,L,D

You begin with a short walk to Manang before continuing above the main valley into more remote terrain. The trail ascends past isolated settlements and follows a well-defined ridge. As you gain elevation, views open up across the Manang Valley. On arrival, you reach Shree Kharka, a scenic campsite with views back towards Kang La. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today is a shorter but more demanding stage as you continue up the valley towards Tilicho Base Camp. The trail traverses a series of scree slopes, requiring careful footing in places. As you gain height, the terrain becomes more rugged and exposed. On arrival, you reach base camp, set in a remote alpine environment below Tilicho Lake. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping

Meals: B,L,D

You begin early, ascending towards Tilicho Lake with views of surrounding peaks along the way. The trail climbs steadily to a ridge overlooking the lake, revealing its scale and striking alpine setting. From your vantage point, you can appreciate the vast expanse of this high-altitude lake set beneath the Annapurna range. After time to take in the views, you settle into camp nearby, surrounded by changing mountain colours as evening approaches. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping

Meals: B,L,D

After time at Tilicho Lake in the early morning light, you begin your trek towards the base of Mesokanta La. The route crosses the Eastern Pass before continuing through high alpine terrain. Along the way, you are rewarded with expansive views across the Tilicho range and surrounding peaks, with distant views towards Manaslu. On arrival at Northern Camp, you prepare for the following day’s crossing of Mesokanta La. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping

Meals: B,L,D

You begin early for the ascent to Mesokanta La, where you are rewarded with expansive views across the surrounding mountain ranges. From the pass, the Nilgiri Himal and Dhaulagiri massif form a striking alpine panorama. The route then descends over snow slopes, which can be steep in places, before joining a more defined trail. You continue down to Kharka Camp, set high above the Kali Gandaki valley. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping

Meals: B,L,D

You begin a long descent towards the Kali Gandaki River, following trails high above the valley. As you descend, there are views into the dramatic gorge between Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. The trail continues down to the river, where you cross a suspension bridge before heading into Jomsom. On arrival, you settle into your lodge after completing this rewarding stage. Accommodation: Lodge

Meals: B,L,D

You board an early morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara (approx. 20 mins), with views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges along the way. On arrival in Pokhara, you connect with your onward flight to Kathmandu (25 mins). If flights from Jomsom are delayed due to weather, an alternative overland transfer to Pokhara will be arranged, with the flight to Kathmandu taken the following day. On arrival in Kathmandu, you transfer to your hotel. Accommodation: Radisson Hotel

Meals: B

Today is free for you to explore Kathmandu, with a range of cultural and historical sites to discover. You may choose to visit landmarks such as Pashupatinath and Boudhanath, or explore areas including Thamel, Swayambhunath, Patan or Bhaktapur. This day also provides an opportunity to relax, shop or enjoy the city at your own pace. It is built into the itinerary as a contingency in case of delays returning from the mountains. Accommodation: Radisson Hotel

Meals: B

After breakfast, your trip concludes in Kathmandu. If you are departing today, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey. Airport transfers include assistance where required. Additional arrangements can be made if you are continuing your stay.

Meals: B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.

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What's included?

Included

19 breakfasts, 17 lunches and 17 dinners, including all meals on trek (valued at US$900)
Airport transfers if arriving on Day 1 and Day 20, or if pre/post tour accommodation at the Radisson is booked through World Expeditions
Internal flights between Jomsom, Pokhara and Kathmandu (valued at US$280)
An additional 5kg luggage allowance on the Jomsom to Pokhara flight (total 20kg per person, including carry-on)
Expert bilingual trekking guide
Comprehensive group medical kit
Good quality accommodation in Kathmandu
Accommodation on trek in our fully serviced wilderness campsites
Use of a World Expeditions trek pack, including a quality sleeping bag, down or fibre-fill jacket and insulated mat (valued at over US$500)
Private transportation throughout
All national park entrance fees, trekking permits and special permit (valued at US$70)
Porters to carry all personal and group equipment, including porter insurance
Souvenir World Expeditions kit bag

Not included

International flights
Visa
Travel insurance
Meals not listed as included
Personal expenses such as laundry, etc.
Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks
Tips and gratuities
Any items not listed as included

Reviews (19)

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Extra trip info

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The trekking season runs from late September through to early May. Skies are generally clear and the weather is stable. Spring (March to May) is particularly beautiful with rhododendrons in bloom.

You do not need technical experience, but a very high level of fitness and prior multi-day trekking experience are strongly recommended. This is a Challenging (Grade 7) trek with high passes over 5,000m, steep ascents/descents, and remote conditions. It’s suitable for experienced trekkers seeking a physically and mentally demanding Himalayan journey.

You’ll only carry your daypack (approx. 6–8kg / 13–18lb) with items like water, rain gear, snacks, and camera. Porters carry your main duffel.

You’re provided with a trek duffel, and your packed gear should not exceed 15kg (33lb).

Yes – accommodation is on a twin-share basis during the trek and in Kathmandu. A single supplement is available upon request, subject to availability.

At altitudes over 3,000m (9,840ft), expect freezing temperatures at night, especially near the Mesokanto La and Kang La passes. Days can be cool to warm depending on sun and elevation. You’ll be provided with high-quality gear including a warm sleeping bag and down jacket to help manage the cold.

On trek, you’ll use trekking-style toilet tents or basic facilities in remote areas. In Kathmandu, you’ll stay in a hotel with Western-style toilets. Eco-Comfort Camps are not used on this itinerary, but hygiene standards are maintained throughout the trip.

Yes – this trek offers panoramic views of Annapurna (8,091m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Tilicho Peak (7,134m), as well as glacial lakes, high-altitude passes, and remote Tibetan-style villages. It’s one of Nepal’s most scenic and remote routes.

Charging is not guaranteed due to the remote nature of the trek. Bring spare batteries and a portable solar charger as backup. Charging is available in Kathmandu.

n Kathmandu, you'll stay at a comfortable, centrally located hotel with modern facilities. While trekking, accommodation is in fully supported wilderness camps. These include high-quality sleeping tents, a communal dining tent, and a separate toilet tent. Our team sets up and maintains the camps each day, so you can focus on the walking. Although this trek does not use Eco-Comfort Camps, our wilderness camps are well equipped and designed to provide comfort and safety in remote mountain settings.

Yes – all meals are included while on trek, freshly prepared by our cook and kitchen team using safe food-handling practices. Three courses are served at dinner, and meals cater to most dietary needs. In Kathmandu, breakfast is included.

This trek is graded Challenging (Grade 7). You’ll need to be in excellent physical condition, able to hike for 8+ hours a day at altitude, and manage long days with multiple high passes above 5,000m. Regular training and preparation are essential.

Kang La Pass: 5,306m (17,408ft), & Mesokanto La Pass: 5,099m (16,729ft)

This is a high-altitude trek. Your itinerary includes acclimatisation days, and guides are trained to monitor your health. We carry a Portable Altitude Chamber (PAC) on this itinerary. We do not carry oxygen on standard treks.

No – a warm sleeping bag, liner, and down or fibre jacket are included in your trek package.

We provide:

Down/fibre jacket

Sleeping bag + liner

Duffel bag (carried by porters)

You’ll receive a detailed gear list after booking. Only bring personal clothing and essentials; there’s no need to buy expensive equipment.

Unlike standard Annapurna lodge treks, this is a fully supported expedition-style camping trek that traverses remote, restricted areas like Nar Phu Valley and Tilicho Lake. You’ll experience wild passes, fewer crowds, and deeper cultural immersion with Tibetan-influenced communities. It’s a rare and rewarding high-altitude route.

This trek is not recommended for first-time trekkers due to its altitude and remoteness. If you're new to trekking, consider a lower-altitude lodge-based trek in the Annapurna region instead (e.g. Ghorepani or Poon Hill) before tackling this challenging high pass route.