Trip Details

  • Destination: Nepal
  • Trip Difficulty: Moderate
  • Trip Style: Trekking
  • Transport: Public Vehicle & Tourist Bus
  • Food: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse or Lodge
  • Group Size: 2-16
  • Max Elevation: 5416m

Highlights

  • Visit the glistening blue waters of Tilicho which sits at an elevation of 4,919m.
  • Magnificent view of the Annapurna Himalayan range, namely, Mt Manaslu (8,163m), Annapurna I (8,091m) and Dhaulagiri (8,167m).
  • Cross the well-famed Thorung La Pass (5,416m).
  • Opportunity to visit the holy shrine of Muktinath and take a shower in the temple’s well-known 108 showers.
  • Witness the deserted Tibetian style beige-hills of Mustang.
  • Experience the chilly Trans Himalayan Climate.
  • Witness the semi-Tibetan culture and traditions of the Gurung and Magar tribes.
  • Chance to visit the ancient Buddhist monastery in Braga.
  • Witness the picturesque scenery of the verdant settlements and the glazing river gorges.
     

Description

Does the sight of blue glistening lakes and snow-capped mountains tend to please your eyes? If so, you’re in luck! Because this Tilicho Lake Trek Package is going to be one of the best experiences of your life! Situated at an elevation of 4,919m, the magnificent blue colored waters of Tilicho are indeed a treat to any traveler’s eye!

The lake lies in the Manang District and under the foot of the gigantic Tilicho peak. Thanks to its incredible geographic location, the lake has been a significant source of attraction amongst many tourists favoring the Annapurna region. Also, apart from the natural beauty, the lake is also acclaimed for its religious significance which attracts a large number of Hindu travelers from all around the globe. 

The trek is also undoubtedly rich in natural scenery, contrasting between extraordinary views of the verdant valleys, circling high mountains and the dry Tibetian-styled hills of Mustang. As a result, the route provides jaw-dropping views of the panoramic Annapurna massif range. The views are heavenly and unlike anything you’ve experienced before!

On a final note, for the wild and free souls out there who are looking to make some unforgettable memories, opt for the Tilicho trek in the Annapurna region! The exquisite scenery and the warm hospitality are going to fill your pockets with incredible experiences.

Tilicho Base Camp Trek Route

The trip commences with a scenic drive away from the capital city and to the town of Bhulbhule. We start the trek from Bhulbhule towards Nagdi. We then begin walking on the classic Annapurna circuit trail following along the banks of Marshyangdi river with the extraordinary views of Manaslu and Himal Chuli gleaming in the backdrop.

En route, we pass through the settlements of Chamje, Dharapani, and Chame eventually onto Pisang. As we walk along the trail, the climate contrasts between a subtropical atmosphere to the chilly Himalayan Climate. For the admirers of nature, the journey will indeed be an unforgettable one!

We further continue along the trail, passing to Manang. On reaching Manang, we continue on our venture to the Tilicho Base Camp, which lies westwards after exiting the Annapurna circuit trail. From there, a day’s journey takes us to the mystical lake of Tilicho. Since the lake lies at quite a lofty altitude, we will need to acclimatize before the final climb to avoid altitude sickness.

In the wake of visiting the lake, we further travel towards Yak Kharka and join the course crossing the Thorong La Pass (5416m). This is when the altitude plays a considerable part and creates occasional fatigue. After crossing the pass, beating the elevation, we descend towards the holy shrine of Muktinath and offer our prayers.

Finally, we descend back to Jomsom, as we near the end of the fantastic trip. Upon reaching Jomsom, we take a bus back to Pokhara, concluding our 15-day fantastic journey!

Highest Point During The Trek

The highest point that we will be venturing during this Tilicho Lake Trek Package is the Thorung-La Pass. It lies at a staggering altitude of 5,416m.

Final Conclusion

For the wild thrill-seekers, the journey to the frozen lake of Tilicho can be an unforgettable experience. The picturesque scenery of the panoramic icy peaks, verdant landscapes, and cultural settlements guarantees to provide you with an experience like never before! So don’t think twice and pack your bags to sign up for the Tilicho Lake Trek Package for an experience of a lifetime!

15 Days Tilicho Lake Trek Itinerary

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We commence the trek with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule on a local bus. The journey takes about 5-6 hours with occasional food stops on the way. We follow the Pokhara highway as we pass along the banks of Marshyangdi River and the scattered settlements of Dumre and Besisahar. After 5-6 hours of driving, we finally arrive at Bhulbhule. From Bhulbhule, we start walking uphill in a one-hour hike which leads to the village of Nagdi. Overnight stay at Nagdi.

  • Meals: Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 920

We officially begin our trek as we leave Nagdi and head towards the village of Chamje. The journey takes about 6-7 hours along the classic Annapurna trail covered with abundant rhododendron trees. We trek along the steep and slippery path running through paddy fields, and tiny Tibetan influenced settlements into Chamje. Overnight stay at Chamje.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 1460m

After a wholesome breakfast, we continue on our venture to Tilicho with today’s destination being Dharapani. The trail begins with criss-cross paths along the Marsyangdi river until we reach a suspension bridge above the Marshyangdi river. After crossing the bridge, the trail slowly starts getting uphill and steep towards Tal.

Tal marks the entering of Manang valley. En route, you can observe the fields filled with barley, rice, potato, and pine forests as we pass the village of Khotro. The trail further descends towards the woody forests until it reaches a suspension bridge. After passing through the settlements of Karte and Nache town, we finally reach Dharapani where we will be staying overnight.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 1900m

On the fourth day, we head towards Chame after some quick check of the ACAP permits by the officials. We first walk up to the village of Baggarchap, passing through a lush forest, hemlock, maple, and oak trees. We further continue along the trail passing through the woody forests into Danaque. Upon reaching Danaque, you can find abundant apple orchards all around!

The trail then starts getting zig-zag with a lot of winding turns and covered with lush rhododendron trees. After walking for 2 to 3 hours along this trail, we finally make it to Chame which provides a breathtaking view of the Lamjung and Annapurna II/IV mountains! Overnight stay at Chame.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 2630m

The journey today starts with an uphill climb past the carved mani stones into the village of Telekhu. The trails to Pisang are relatively comfortable and are lowly inclined as we pass through the thick pine forests. The path also blesses you with some of the best views of the Annapurna Himalayan range.

As we near Pisang, we exit the pine-covered forests to make our way into the Paunga Dada rock face. We continue alongside the ridge for another two hours or so. En route, you can find various prayer flags and stone carvings. After 6-7 hours of journey, we finally reach Pisang and stay overnight.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 3330m

Our journey starts with an uphill climb as we pass through the abundant pine trees leading to a small lake. The trail then diverges towards a light settlement covered with painted mandalas and waving prayer flags. The landscapes slowly start contrasting from verdant meadows to summer pastures and rocky terrains as we near Manang.

After a few hours, the trail climbs up a steep ridge along the banks of Marshyangdi River and eventually brings us to the settlement of Ngawal. Furthermore, we pass through some additional pine forests and farming terraces finally arriving at Manang. En Route we also pass through Braga, where we visit the ancient monastery soaked with rich cultural history. Overnight stay at Manang.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 3550m

Since we pass above the 3000m mark, we need to let our body acclimatize to the lofty altitude. Thus we take a rest day to help acclimatize ourselves and also relieve some muscular stress after many days of an uphill hike.

To make the day more productive, we will explore around Manang. The place features some of the most exquisite views of the Gangapurna Icefall and the glacial lake close to it. You can also choose to explore the other major attractions such as Khangsur village, Kecho lake or Milarepa cave. Overnight stay at Manang.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 3550m

Today we begin the trek early after a wholesome breakfast as we head towards the foot of the Tilicho peak. The journey commences with a descent from Manang and crossing the Jharsing Khola using the suspension bridge. Then we continue on the trail until we reach the village of Khangsar. In Khangsar, you can find small settlements and monasteries covered with waving prayer flags and mandala textures.

From Khangsar, the path gets more challenging due to the steep incline. The trail features abundant juniper and buckthorn shrubs with few streams occasionally coming into view. After some hours of weary climb, you will finally reach a crest situated at an altitude of 4,650m and covered with multi-colored prayer flags. An hour of walking along the zig-zag trails eventually leads us to the Tilicho Base Camp, where we will be staying overnight.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 4140m

Today is the main highlight day of the trek where we visit the lake of Tilicho. We start early walking along a side valley along the steep moraines. En route, we catch a magnificent glimpse of the surrounding icy peaks, namely Tarke Gyang, Gangapurna, and the Khangsar Kang.

After a few hours of walking along the steep incline, we finally reach the mystical lake of Tilicho. More often the lake appears frozen due to the freezing temperatures, and you can see the mirrored image of the mountains on its solid surface. After spending some well deserved time on the lake, we finally head back down to Siri Kharkha for spending the night.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 4060m

We start today’s journey descending as we head towards Lather. We pass through the alpine vistas and declining vegetation. The trail then transforms into a gradual uphill climb as we move through abundant scrub juniper and alpine shrubs into Yak Kharka.

From Yak Kharka, the trail diverts eastwards along the banks of Jarsang Khola and descends steeply onto a wooden bridge connecting the banks of the river. An hour or so walk after crossing the bridge leads us to Lather. En route, you can catch a glimpse of the unique Himalayan wildlife. Overnight stay at Lather.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 4200m

On the 11th day of the trek, we start walking early after a quick breakfast. We walk along the trail until we reach Thorung Khola. We cross the river and continue walking along the path. If you’re lucky, you can catch some glimpses of the Himalayan deer grazing about. An hour or so of walking along the route eventually takes us into Phedi where we will stop for some quick refreshments.

The trail then starts getting steeply inclined, and an hour of walking along this trail finally leads us to the High camp at 4800m. We then rest ourselves for the big day tomorrow and stay overnight at Thorong High Camp.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 4800m

It is the most challenging day of the entire trip. We need to walk through steeply inclined trails and lofty altitudes with occasional heavy winds. Hence we start the journey with an early wake-up call. The path from the high camp to Thorung La Pass is usually rocky and quite steep, so it demands extreme physical endurance. Also, the high altitude brings unwanted fatigue and tends to slow you down.

After a few hours of walking, we finally reach the pass situated at 5416m above sea level. Here you can get a sense of pure satisfaction when you reach the top. We then continue on our venture as we start descending to the other side of the moraine.

The way down is very steep, and if you have trekking poles, they prove as a blessing. After 2-3 hours of walking, we finally reach the holy shrine of Muktinath. Here you can offer your prayers to the sacred deity and also shower in the well-famed 108 showers of the temple.

Overnight stay at Muktinath.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 3760m

As the trip nears its end, we start heading towards Jomsom to catch a bus back to Pokhara. The journey begins after a quick breakfast as we start trekking along the dusty hills of Jomson. The route descends along winding twisting and turns until we reach Kagbeni.

From Kagbeni there are two diversions, one leads to Jomsom and the other one to Upper Mustang. We continue walking towards Jomsom. The path from Kagbeni to Jomsom is usually level with fantastic backdrop views of the Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri mountains. After 4-5 hours of trek, we finally reach the settlement of Jomsom where we spend the night.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 2700m

The trek officially comes to an end as we drive back to Pokhara. The journey takes about 6-7 hours and is a scenic one with the verdant landscapes and fierce flowing streams blessing your eyes! We pass along the settlements of Tatopani, Beni, Kusma eventually into Pokhara.

Upon reaching Pokhara, our representatives will escort you back to the hotel. After checking in, you can spend the rest of the evening in any one of the local pubs of Pokhara, sharing your travel stories with fellow travelers.

  • Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
  • Accommodation: Teahouse
  • Altitude: 820m

We head back home after 14 days of absolute blissful trekking experience. On the final day, our representatives will drop you off at the Tourist bus stop of Pokhara from where you will catch a tourist bus back to the capital. The journey takes about 6 hours with occasional stops on the way. 

  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Altitude: 1320m

What to Expect

Cost Includes

  • Airport Pickup and Drop 
  • Teahouse accommodation during the trek
  • Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek
  • Local Bus Ticket (Kathmandu to Bhulbhule)
  • Tourist Bus Ticket (Pokhara to Kathmandu)
  • Local Bus Ticket (Jomsom to Pokhara)
  • Hotels in Pokhara with Breakfast (Twin Sharing)
  • English Speaking Trekking Guide with Insurance, Transportation, Food and Accommodation
  • All Trekking Permits (ACAP and TIMS Card)
  • Use of sleeping bag & Duffel bag (if you don’t have your own, To be return after trip completed)
  • Daily seasonal fresh fruits after dinner 
  • A first aid kit carried by the guide (Oximeter to measure your oxygen and pulse in high altitude) 
  • All Government and Local taxes

Cost Excludes

  • International Flight Ticket and Nepalese Visa Fee
  • Hotel & Meals in Kathmandu
  • Meals in Pokhara
  • Extra night accommodation in Pokhara in case of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the trek (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
  • Personal expenses (Wifi, Phone calls, Laundry, Bar bills, Battery Recharge, Water, Shower, and Tea / Coffee)
  • Other costs not mentioned in 'Cost Includes' section
  • Travel and Rescue Insurance
  • Tips for Guides, Porters, and Drivers

Optional

  • Kathmandu To Bhulbule Private Jeep USD 150$ Per Transfer
  • Pokhara to Kathmandu Flight USD 106$ Per Person
  • 3 Star Hotel in Kathmandu Twin Sharing on BB USD 60$ Per Night 

PRICES & DATES

Trip DatesAvailabilityPrice  
11 Dec, 2024 - 25 Dec, 2024GuaranteedUS$800
18 Dec, 2024 - 01 Jan, 2025GuaranteedUS$795
25 Dec, 2024 - 08 Jan, 2025GuaranteedUS$800
30 Dec, 2024 - 13 Jan, 2025GuaranteedUS$800

Useful Information

Best Time for Tilicho Lake Trek 

Like any other treks in the Annapurna region, the Tilicho trek too has unpredictable weather due to its proximity to the mountains. Thus it is best to opt for the trek during the favorable seasons to avoid any potential risks.

The best time for the Tilicho Lake Trek Package typically lies during the Autumn (September - November) and Spring (March-May) seasons. During these times of the year, the skies are more apparent, contributing to a crystal clear view of the snow-clad mountains. Similarly, the vegetation is also in full bloom which is a great bonus for nature lovers!

Avoid the rainy and winter seasons if possible! The frequent rainfalls can cause slippery and snowy trails which can be hard to navigate through. Also during the winter season, temperatures fall drastically which can pose as a nuisance for travelers!


Tilicho Lake Trek Trek Difficulty 

Although the trip does not require any prior trekking experience, it still demands good physical endurance and stamina. So you need to be in good physical and mental shape to complete the trek. 

Since the Tilicho Lake Trek Package is a little more challenging than the other Annapurna region treks, you may want to opt for some physical exercises weeks before the trek. It can help to increase your overall physical stamina and endurance.

Furthermore, the lofty altitude of the trek can cause altitude sickness so proper acclimatization is a must in this trek. We have designed the itinerary as mentioned above with full priority to appropriate acclimatization. But if in any case, you experience any symptoms of altitude sickness, be sure to alert your guide who will take the necessary actions.
Highest Point During The Trek

The highest point that we will be venturing during this Tilicho Lake Trek Package is the Thorung-La Pass. It lies at a staggering altitude of 5,416m.

FAQs

What is Trekking, and how it is different than Hiking and Climbing?

Trekking is an activity of walking the natural landscapes (especially the side of the mountain) with a specific purpose of exploring and enjoying the scenery. Trekking is generally a multi-day walk, where you stay overnight at trails. 

It tests the trekker's physical ability, stamina, endurance, and also the psychological capacity. Trekking is different from hiking as trekking is a rigorous and challenging activity, whereas hiking is mainly a leisure activity. Hiking generally ranges from a single day walk. 

Climbing, on the other hand, is a much more challenging that requires various technical skills like abseiling, rope fixing, among others. A climber is much riskier requires specialized equipment, as well as rigorous training.

How many hours should I walk daily?

The trekking hours depend upon the trekking routes you choose. In general, a trek like Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, Manaslu Circuit, Annapurna Base Camp, Kanchenjunga treks requires five to six hours of walking on average. The duration also depends on your pace too. 

It is not advisable to trek more than 600m altitude in a day. Starting your trek early is key to avoiding the midday heat and arriving at your destination early. This leaves you enough time to rest, acclimatize, and explore the region.

How difficult is trekking in Nepal?

The level of difficulty depends on the trekking route such as Everest region treks, Annapurna region treks, and other remote area treks. It is also subjective to each individual and their level of endurance. A basic level of fitness is necessary to trek the high altitude region of Nepal with considerably challenging trails. 

Also Read: Manaslu Circuit Trek Difficulty 

Some regular exercise, including cardiovascular activities including but not limited to hiking, cycling, swimming, is a must. Trekkers must have a healthy heart, lungs, and joints. You must start the training regime at least two weeks before the trek.

Is Trekking recommended for all age groups of travelers?

Trekking in Nepal is ideal for all age groups. Trekking can be fun for children as well as for people in their seventies. You can choose the trek based on the difficulty level and suitability.

However, with children, you need to be extra careful in the high altitude regions as they cannot express their pain and fatigue properly. For older people, treks can get customized with accommodating enough rest, acclimatization, and cultural exploration.

You can opt for Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, as it is one of the most popular easy treks in Nepal. This trek is suitable for all age groups with children and family as well. 

Also Read: Top 10 Best Short Treks in Nepal

What is the minimum duration for trekking?

The minimum duration of trekking depends upon the trek destination and trail type. There are many treks that last around 3-8 days. 

These treks are short and specially designed for beginners. The trek journey can get modified by increasing or decreasing the rest and acclimatization days.

Do I need to get some training before doing trekking in Nepal?

Yes, it's better to get some training before doin trekking in Nepal. The training should consist of practice hikes, cardiovascular endurance (aerobic exercise), strength training, and mental strength exercises.

What are the basic tips for beginner trekkers who don’t have any experience?

The essential tips for beginners trekkers who don't have any experience are:

  • Walk at a slow but steady pace
  • Do not rush in your trek
  • Acclimatize and hydrate regularly
  • Pack all your necessities properly
  • Start early on your trek
  • Pre-book your trip

How safe is the water to drink?

The tap water in Nepal is unsafe to drink. The trekkers need to boil their water, use water purification tablets, or bottled water. In high altitude conditions, you need to boil water longer than at lower elevations. 

If you choose to carry or buy bottled water, you should always check if the bottle cap is properly sealed and not tampered. Water purification tablets and drops like Piyush, Water guard use chlorine solution to purify waters. 

You can use any of these methods and drink lots of water to reduce dehydration and cope with altitude sickness.

Where are we staying each night during trekking?

Nepal is famous for the teahouse treks. There are tea houses, lodges, guest houses all along the trails. You will stay at these accommodations each night on your trekking adventure. 

These accommodation facilities provide twin beds, a pillow, and a warm fuzzy blanket. You might find it challenging to find proper accommodation facilities along with the remote off the beaten treks. You might have to camp in such conditions. 

What is Teahouse Trekking Nepal?

The teahouses trekking means staying in a teahouse or lodge every night in your trekking journey. The tea houses offer necessary facilities of lodging and meal and allow trekkers to carry a minimum amount of gear. 

A teahouse can range from comfortable lodges, like in the Solu Khumbu region to a small bamboo hut in the remote trails of western Nepal.

Which are the permits required for trekking? Can I apply as an individual?

A TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management Systems) card is a necessary trekking permit required for any trekking activity in Nepal. Besides that, you will need area-specific trekking permits at varied costs based on the region. 

For example, you will need an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) if you want to do the Annapurna Circuit trek permit and a Sagarmatha National park permit for the EBC trek. You can get the TIMS card and other area-specific permits at the office of the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu.

Is Travel Insurance compulsory while you travel to Nepal?

Yes, travel insurance is compulsory for all travelers traveling to the region. You must get an excellent travel insurance package that covers both the medical and emergency evacuation cost. A travel insurance package of a minimum of USD 100,000 is ideal.

What if I get sick in the mountains?

When trekking in the remote mountain areas, you will only get elementary medical facilities available or none at all. You can find the Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) health posts run by western volunteer doctors at Pheriche and Manang in the Everest and Annapurna region, respectively. 

The doctors provide consultation and services if necessary. If you get severely ill or accidents, then you might as well need a helicopter evacuation back to Kathmandu or Pokhara.

How high is the chance to get altitude sickness? How will a guide help?

The chance to get altitude sickness is exceptionally high in these Himalayan regions. A guide will help you to acclimatize appropriately, which is a crucial step to avoid altitude sickness. The guide can also help you to recover in case you get altitude sickness or with any emergencies. 

How to avoid altitude sickness?

The primary key to avoid altitude sickness is to acclimatize properly. You should not gain more than 600m in altitude in the high altitude regions. Expert trekkers advise to take it slow and not to trek in a rush. 

Regular hydration with at least 5 liters of water is a must. You can also take precautionary tablets under the supervision of a medical professional if needed.

Why is the domestic flight specially to and from Lukla or Jomsom delayed?

The domestic flight to and from Lukla gets delayed frequently due to unfavorable weather conditions. The weather around the high altitude regions is quite unpredictable. 

Lukla airport is also one of the smallest airports in the world. The short runway means that multiple flights cannot land at the same time and can even cause unwanted delays.

Who will carry my backpack?

You can hire a porter for the high altitude trek. They will carry all your luggage that might include your trekking and sleeping equipment. Hiring a porter significantly reduces the weight off your back. 

You can carry a light daypack consisting of water, a camera, snacks, and rain gear. The heavy luggage will get carried by a porter. Some guides work as porters, as well. 

What are the food items that we can eat in the teahouse?

For breakfast, the tea houses provide a regular bread toast along with hot tea or coffee. For lunch and dinner, the staple dish of “Dal Bhat” gets served on the tea houses. The Dal Bhat is highly nutritious, with a balance of carbohydrates and protein. 

It consists of if rice, cereal, vegetables, lentils, spinach, meat, and pickles. Some tea houses do serve a limited variety of western cuisines like pizza, burgers, and pasta, as well. 

What are the services that we get from each teahouse?

The tea houses provide lodging and meal facilities. They provide a twin bedroom with a pillow and a fuzzy blanket. You will have to share a shared bathroom with fellow trekkers. The toilets are generally of squat style. 

Besides that, you will get all the meal facilities in the tea houses as well. You can get all the meals of the day i.e. breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the tea houses. The food might not be fancy but provides you with excellent nutrition and adequate energy for the trek. 

How safe is Nepal for solo woman traveler?

Nepal is generally safe for women travelers. The Nepalese society is quite conservative and has a specific idea of modest clothing. Dressing modestly by covering thighs and shoulders will save you from unwanted gaze on the streets. 

Female travelers should not travel alone, especially at late nights. You should also choose your guide wisely after a thorough background check. If you keep these things in your mind, you will remain safe while traveling in Nepal.

How much money should I bring for trekking?

A general estimate of $25 per day per person on average would be enough for trekking in Nepal. The food and accommodation costs are generally paid upfront and costs around $2 - $3 per bed. This also includes the food costs that are available provided in the teahouses. 

If you wish to take hot water showers or recharge electronic gadgets, it might cost you a couple of bucks more. If you are a budget traveler, spending frugally might get the costs down to $15. Overall, the rough estimate of $25 is ideal for the trek.

Are there any ATMs on the way to trekking routes?

There are no ATMs along the trail in the high altitude region. The last ATM can is in Namche and Lukla if you are trekking the Everest Base Camp region. You will have to use the ATM in Kathmandu and Pokhara and carry the necessary cash along with you in the trek. 

How much weight can one porter carry?

A porter generally carries 10kg per client, and they carry for two clients, which means they can carry a maximum of 20kg. However, it is advisable to reduce the amount of luggage and only take the necessary ones.

How many tips should we give to guide and porter?

The general unwritten but widely followed rule is to tip 15 percent of the total cost spent trekking. If you are trekking solo, the rule of thumb is to tip $5 per day or equivalent for guides and $2 to $4 per day or equivalent for porters. 

For group trekking, you can tip $10 per day for guides and $5 per day for porters. You can also tip as you wish based on the weight carried and the service provided.

What are the best seasons for trekking in Nepal?

The best time for trekking is the Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). During spring, wildflowers, including rhododendrons bloom all over the trails. The clear skies and stable weather is the major attraction of the trek.

The autumn months of September to November is famous for its soothing climate and favorable temperatures. In addition to these perks, autumn is also a festive season with vibrant festivals Dashain and Tihar falling at this time of the year. 

The monsoon and the winters are generally avoided because of the risks and the challenges.  

Also Read: Best Time to Visit Nepal

What are the basic criteria for physical fitness?

Many people assume that they need to have an athletic strength to complete treks in Nepal, which is not true. A basic level of fitness with good stamina can easily lead you to success in the trails of Nepal. 

Some cardio (aerobic) exercises, including hiking, cycling, swimming, tai chi, etc. can help you gain fitness before the start of your trek. One important thing to consider is that the treks are not a race, so you need to maintain a gentle pace with sufficient breaks and acclimatization. 

If your fitness levels are on the higher side, you will enjoy the treks more and find more energy for extra activities.

Can I do trekking solo without a guide and porter?

Yes, you can trek solo in Nepal without a guide or a porter on many routes. If you come well prepared with a map or traveling a well-trodden path, you can trek pleasantly in solitude.

However, some restricted trails like Manaslu Circuit Trek do require a guide by compulsion. But there are risks of traveling without a guide mostly related to health issues and freak weather conditions. 

Also Read: Manaslu Circuit Trek Without Guide

Can you list out the packing list for trekking?

The packing list for trekking in Nepal are as follows:

Clothing

  • Trekking pants and jackets
  • Rainproof pants and jackets
  • Thermals underwear
  • Pair of Gloves
  • Short-sleeved trekking shirts
  • Long-sleeved trekking shirts
  • Woolen cap/ beanies
  • Insulating jackets
  • fleece-lined jacket
  • Lightweight Sweaters 
  • Trekking boots

First Aid

  • Band-aids
  • Anti-nausea Medicines
  • Sanitary pads/ Tampons
  • Mosquito repellent spray or ointment

Toiletries

  • Toilet Paper
  • Shampoo 
  • Soap
  • Sunscreen
  • Hand sanitizer

Accessories

  • Cameras
  • Water Bottle
  • Sleeping bag
  • Sunglasses
  • Chargers
  • Extra Batteries

Important Documents

  • Passport
  • Photo
  • Travel Permits

Can I recharge my camera batteries, phone, and other electronic batteries?

Yes, there are facilities for charging electronic gadgets like cameras, phones, and other electric batteries at an added cost. However, the charges are on the higher side, and charging time gets limited. Hence, carrying a solar-powered charger or power bank is a good option.

Can I get trekking gears and equipment on rent?

Yes, you can get any trekking gears and equipment on rent. The famous street of Thamel in Kathmandu is popularly known as “backpacker’s alley.” You can get all kinds of trekking gears and equipment, including sleeping bags, down jackets, trekking boots, for rent. 

There are many gears of knock-off brands that work surprisingly well. But you should always stay away from substandard stuff that might cause you nuisance along the trek.

Is laundry services available in teahouse?

There are a few laundry services available in places like Namche. However, in the high altitude region, these facilities get scarce. You will have to wash your clothes on your own in the sink. You can use a small amount of warm water to wash your clothes.

What is the weather like in Nepal?

There are five distinct seasons in Nepal. The summers are hot and wet, and the monsoons are wet with chances of landslides. The winters are cold with freezing temperatures in the high mountains. These seasons are not the best time to trek the region. 

The peak trekking seasons in Nepal are the autumn and the spring season. The autumn months come after the monsoon, and thus trekkers can enjoy the stable weather with perfect trekking temperatures. 

The spring is when the trails look its best. The beautiful wildflowers, including rhododendron bloom all over the trails and the scenic environment, makes the trek quite pleasant.

What types of trekking shoes or boots do I need to bring?

You will require waterproof, sturdy hiking boots for trekking the Himalayas in Nepal. There are various shops in and around Thamel in Kathmandu that lets you buy or rent specialized trekking shoes.

Trekkers do not necessarily require crampons, but if you are trekking on a snowy trail, crampons fitted trekking boots helps you get past the snow with ease. 

How will the travel company solve the problem in case of an emergency?

The guides and porters are adequately trained and skilled in handling emergencies. The travel agency is in communication with the team leader at all times through a mobile or a satellite phone. 

You will get immediate first aid and all necessary help if required. Helicopters are at standby positions in case the conditions get worse, and you need an emergency helicopter evacuation.

Are there any other outdoor activities besides trekking in Nepal?

Nepal is an adventure-lovers delight. There are many outdoor activities, including bungee jumping, paragliding, zip-lining, rafting, rock climbing, canoeing, jungle safari, and others in Nepal. You can choose the best one according to your desire and schedule.

How expensive or costly is to do trekking?

While the cost may vary according to the trails, in general, the cost of trekking ranges around $1000-$2500 on average, excluding the international flight costs. This cost includes food, accommodation, permits, guide/porter, and other fees.

Which were the trekking routes damaged by an earthquake in 2015?

The popular routes Annapurna Base Camp trek and the Everest Base Camp trek was not much affected by the earthquake in 2015. However, the pristine Langtang and Manalsu trekking region were severely affected. 

The landslide after the earthquake swept away many teahouses in the Langtang region, and more than 300 lives were lost. The quick rebuilding process led by the local community ensured that all the trekking routes get restored and repaired immediately. 

These trails are safer than ever for a trekking adventure. Trekking has since resumed in the Langtang region.

Where the most popular places to do trekking in Nepal?

There are many trekking trails in Nepal. Some of the famous trekking trails include the Everest Base Camp Trek in the Everest region. The Annapurna Circuit trek in the tranquil Annapurna region is also quite popular. 

The Upper Mustang trek, Manaslu trek, Langtang trek are also quite popular. Besides these, many off the beaten trekking routes are gaining popularity as well.

Does my guide carry a simple medical kit for general treatment?

Yes, the professional guides do carry a simple medical/ first aid kits. They are well trained and are adept at performing simple first aid if necessary. However, if the condition worsens, you will need professional medical help or even evacuation.

Do I need to carry a sleeping bag or not?

Although a warm blanket gets provided at the teahouses, carrying a sleeping bag is always a good option. The trails can get busy, and in freezing conditions, a single blanket might not be enough, and an extra blanket might not be available. Hence, a sleeping bag helps you get a good night's sleep after a long day of the trek.

What is the basic equipment do I need to bring for trekking?

The essential equipment you need to bring for trekking includes standard trekking gears and clothes, first aid kits, toiletries, and other accessories. The trekking gears and clothes include waterproof trekking jackets, sturdy boots, waterproof pants, gloves, and others. 

For first aid, you can pack band-aids, insect repellents, anti nauseant tablets, etc. You can also bring other accessories like a camera, charger, power banks, and others. 

Should I bring a tent or a mattress?

Since you will be staying in tea houses along the trek, a tent or a mattress is not necessary. The tea houses along the trail provide the facilities of bed, mattress, and blankets. 

However, if you wish to camp outside or want to trek the off the beaten remote trails, then you might need to bring your tent or mattress as the tea houses are scarce in these remote regions.

Where can I leave my personal stuff in Kathmandu when I am trekking?

You can leave your stuff in the guest houses and hotels where you will be staying in Kathmandu. These guesthouses have a unique service designed for trekkers who need to store their belongings while they go on a trek in the Himalayas. 

You can ask the caretaker to handle your backpack with care and also put up a large and visible name tag on the bags to avoid misplacement. The guesthouses readily agree to store your stuff as they can serve you further after your return from the trek.

How experienced is my trekking guide?

All our guides have been around the trekking scene for quite a while and are highly experienced. They are well equipped with proper knowledge regarding the trails and are quite pleasant and friendly. 

In case of any emergencies, the guides will prove to be a great helping hand as they are well versed in first aid. Many of them are fluent in English and other languages like French and German.

Are guides and porters insured in case of accidents while trekking?

Yes, all the guides and porters are duly insured with proper insurance in case of any accidents while trekking

Do guides and porters have proper gears?

Yes, guides and porters are well equipped with proper gear for the trek. The guides and porters are also provided with special medical/ first aid kits for emergency conditions.

Should I bring my personal medicine?

If you need to have certain medicines regularly, then you should bring your medicines on the trek. Besides that, you should also consult your doctor for any medication that you might need along the trek.

Do I need extra days in case of flight cancellation?

Adding a couple of days to your holidays is always a good idea. The flights in the Himalayan region are notorious for frequent delays or even cancellation based on the unfavorable weather conditions. A few additional days to your trekking adventure ensures that you can relax and trek without any hassle.

What is the visa cost for Nepal?

The new provision states that foreigners visiting Nepal on a 15-day multiple-entry tourist visa will have to pay $30 in fees. For a 30-day multiple-entry tourist visa, the cost is $50. The 90-day visa multi-entry tourist visas cost around $125.

Read More: The Complete Nepal Visa Guide 

Can I apply for the Nepal visa online?

Although most of the tourists apply for a visa on arrival, you can apply for the Nepal visa online in advance, as well. You can apply for the Nepal visa at most 15 days ahead of arrival in Nepal. The things required are the address of the hotel, a recent digital version of a passport-sized photo, and the filled application form online

Once you complete the submission process online, you can print out the confirmation receipt. You can display it to the Immigration officer upon your arrival at the airport and pay the proper amount to get your visa.

For further questions, please chat us online or contact us. We will get back to with answers as soon as possible. 

Customer Reviews

  • noimage
    Frankee
    Singapore

    Tilicho base camp

    Mouantian in Nepal are amazing! We spend there 12 days and it was awesome! We had very sunny weather and the snowing as well. We really enjoyed it. We had also very good accomodation in Tea houses and the best food in Mannang. Whole journey was incredible and we would like to have another lovely time in mouantian defenetly with Mount Mania. We warmly recommend them for everything! They are super kind and responsible. Nothing is a problem! We are very thankful!!! Frankee from czech group 🇳🇵🖐🏻🙏🏻🤩

    TripAdvisor
  • noimage
    Frantisek
    Czech Republic

    12 Days Tilicho Base Camp Trek

    The mountains in Nepal are amazing! We spend there for 12 days and it was awesome! We had very sunny weather and the snowing as well. We really enjoyed it. We had also very good accommodation in Tea houses and the best food in Manang. The whole journey was incredible and we would like to have another lovely time in mountain definitely with Mount Mania. We warmly recommend them for everything! They are super kind and responsible. Nothing is a problem! We are very thankful!!! Frankee from Czech group. 

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