Tilicho Lake And Mesokanto La Pass Trekking - 12 Days

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Trip Information
  • Duration12 Days
  • DestinationNepal
  • Difficulty Level Moderate to Difficult
  • Max Altitude5,330 m/17486.88 ft
  • ActivityTrekking
  • Group Size1+
  • Trip StartKathmandu
  • Trip EndKathmandu
  • Best TimeApril to Jun and Sept to Nov

Tilicho Lake and Mesokanto La Pass Trekking is one of Nepal’s most exhilarating adventures, blending the beauty of the Annapurna region with the thrill of crossing high Himalayan passes. This off-the-beaten-path trek offers mesmerizing views of snow-clad peaks, pristine blue lakes, and remote mountain villages rich in Tibetan-Buddhist culture.

Located at an altitude of 4,919 meters, Tilicho Lake is considered one of the highest lakes in the world. Crossing the Mesokanto La Pass (5,099 meters) adds an element of challenge and adventure for experienced trekkers seeking solitude and breathtaking alpine beauty. Managed by the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), this route provides a perfect blend of natural wonders and cultural immersion.

guest enjoying at Tilicho lake

Overview of Tilicho Lake and Mesokanto La Pass Trek

The Tilicho Lake and Mesokanto La Pass Trek starts from the scenic trails of Chame, following the classic Annapurna Circuit route through Manang and Tilicho Base Camp. From here, trekkers ascend to the stunning turquoise waters of Tilicho Lake before crossing the high and rugged Mesokanto La Pass toward Jomsom in the Mustang region.

This trek is ideal for adventure seekers who wish to explore the hidden corners of the Annapurna Himalayas, away from the crowds. You’ll experience everything from alpine forests and yak pastures to dramatic rocky landscapes and ancient monasteries perched on cliffs.

Highlights of Tilicho Lake and Mesokanto La Pass Trek

  • Visit Tilicho Lake (4,919m) — one of the highest lakes in the world

  • Cross the challenging Mesokanto La Pass (5,099m)

  • Panoramic views of Annapurna II, III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak

  • Experience traditional Manangi and Gurung culture

  • Trek through remote Himalayan landscapes and rugged terrain

  • Witness diverse flora and fauna inside the Annapurna Conservation Area

  • Descend to the windy town of Jomsom, gateway to Mustang

12 Days Altitude and Distance Coverage

Tilicho Lake And Mesokanto La Pass Trekking - 12 Days Altitude and Distance Coverage

Day

Activity

Altitude (m/ft)

Distance (km/miles)

Duration (hours)

Elevation Gain/Loss

01

Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel

1,350 m / 4,430 ft

—

—

—

02

Drive to Besisahar, then sharing jeep ride to Chame

2,670 m / 8,760 ft

~220 km / ~137 miles (drive)

~8-9 hrs drive

+1,320 m / +4,330 ft (drive)

03

Trek to Pisang

3,230 m / 10,597 ft

~14 km / 8.7 miles

~5 hrs walk

+560 m / +1,837 ft

04

Trek to Manang Village

3,450 m / 11,319 ft

~15 km / 9.3 miles

~5 hrs walk

+220 m / +722 ft

05

Rest day at Manang for local hikes and acclimatization

3,450 m / 11,319 ft

~5-6 km / 3-4 miles

~2-3 hrs walk

~+200 m / ~+656 ft (hike)

06

Trek to Khangsar

3,734 m / 12,250 ft

~9 km / 5.6 miles

~5 hrs walk

+284 m / +931 ft

07

Trek to Tilicho Base Camp

4,140 m / 13,582 ft

~10 km / 6.2 miles

~4 hrs walk

+406 m / +1,332 ft

08

Trek to Tilicho Lake and return to Base Camp

4,800 m / 15,748 ft

~12 km / 7.5 miles (round trip)

~6 hrs walk

+660 m / +2,165 ft
-660 m / -2,165 ft

09

Trek to Nama Phu via Mesokanto-La Pass

3,510 m / 11,515 ft

~14 km / 8.7 miles

~7-8 hrs walk

+959 m / +3,146 ft
-1,589 m / -5,213 ft

10

Trek to Thini-Gaon via Kaisang

2,850 m / 9,350 ft

~12 km / 7.5 miles

~6-7 hrs walk

-660 m / -2,165 ft

11

Trek to Jomsom

2,715 m / 8,907 ft

~7 km / 4.3 miles

~2 hrs walk

-135 m / -443 ft

12

Drive or fly to Pokhara

820 m / 2,690 ft

~150 km / 93 miles (drive)
~25 min (flight)

~7 hrs (drive)
~25 mins (flight)

-1,895 m / -6,217 ft (drive/flight)

Best Time to Visit Tilicho Lake and Mesokanto La Pass

The best seasons for this trek are Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November).
During these periods, the weather is stable, the skies are clear, and the mountain views are at their best.

  • Spring: Colorful rhododendrons and wildflowers bloom along the trail.

  • Autumn: Crystal-clear skies and excellent mountain visibility.
    Avoid the winter months due to heavy snow, and monsoon season because of slippery trails.

Required Permits:

Itinerary
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On arrival at Kathmandu international airport via respective airlines, where you will be received by our office staff and guide with the warm welcome greeting and then transfer to your hotels in the hub of the city.

After checking into your rooms and getting refreshed join the other groups for the briefing on Tilicho Lake & Mesokanto-La Pass Trekking.

Our guide provides with useful important information regarding trek and your stay in Nepal with us.

The evening includes welcome dinner in a nice and authentic Nepalese restaurant with Folk Culture program of Nepal while having your dinner.

    Our first-day walk starts with the uphill climb on leaving Marsyangdi River behind to reach Jagat village, a farm village with many lodges for trekkers.

    From Jagat village walk continues on the winding path to Chamje, and back at Marsyangdi River to cross eastern bank into a forested area, with views of Annapurna and Manaslu mountain ranges, as our walk advances on a wide path to Tal Besi.

    Here for refreshment or lunch break, and then few hours walk leads to Dharapani village for an overnight stop, Dharapani a nice village situated on the junction of Annapurna circuit and Manaslu trekking trail.

      From here onwards air gets cooler and fresher as walk leads close towards mountains, morning walk through an alpine forest of rhododendron and pine trees, following Marshyangdi River upstream with few short ups and down hills to Bhratang village.

      From Bhratang village walk follows uphill into cooler woodland to reach a ride top small village of Dhukure Pokhari with few teahouses and lodge.

      Overlooking views of Chulu’s and Pisang peaks, a possible lunch break here, and then afternoon walk descends to reach at lower Pisang village for an overnight stop.

        Pisang village offers great views of mountains and surrounding landscapes, from here altitude gains slowly as walk leads into a small forested area with a short uphill offering view of staggering Annapurna II and III, Gangapurna Chulu’s and Pisang peak.

        From the ridge top entering a flat valley at Hongdae village, from here onward tree lines disappear for barren, arid landscapes with cold, dry arctic climate.

        Before Manang, visit old Braga monastery with old Buddhist relics, ancient wall painting and frescos and stunning views of Annapurna Himalaya, from here an hour walk reaches Manang village.

        The houses built with traditional Tibetan style, Manang people are known for their rich culture and traditions.

          A necessary rest day for acclimatization, before heading higher altitude towards Tilicho Lake & Mesokanto-La Pass, at Manang taking short walks and explore Manang village and its beautiful valley, Manang the main and a large village of the areas placed on windswept valley by the bank of Marsyangdi River beneath towering Annapurna II-III and Gangapurna mountain range, a nice walk uphill for views of Gangapurna Glacier and the Manang emerald Lake.

            After Manang village morning walk leads to another highlight of this trip, as our route diverts from main Annapurna circuit trail reaching one of the last village of Manang at Khangsar for overnight stop which lies on route to Tilicho Lake.

              From here onwards around the dry and arid country, morning walk on the downhill for some time, then uphill to reach Tilicho Lake for the overnight stop.

              Tilicho Lake a holy spot for both Hindu's and Buddhist religions, offering wonderful views of snowcapped peaks in the comfort of the nice lodge by the bank of beautiful Tilicho Lake.

                After Tilicho Lake, morning walk further to remote areas of Manang valley, after a tough morning walk reaching at Mesokanto-La or Tilicho Base Camp, our highest overnight camp of this adventure at 4,800 meters high.

                Overnight camp is set on a nice meadow, with chances of spotting some wild-life like antelopes, musk deer or elusive snow leopard.

                  Today a long and Big Day of this trip! Starting the climb early morn to cross two high passes, over Tilicho pass then downhill walk to the base of Mesokanto pass, after a rest then climb over Mesokanto-la pass with steep climb to reach the ridge at 5,099 meters.

                  On reaching the top ridge and the pass descend to our overnight camp in a small place at Nama phu.

                    After a tough walk of previous day, morning an easy day trek downhill to reach Kaligandaki valley with views of Mt. Dhaulagiri and Nilgiris peaks.

                    This nice and pleasant walk leads to Kaisang and then further to a large village of Thinigaon for overnight stop, located above Jomsom and Kaligandaki Valley.

                      From Thini-Gaon, situated away from main trekking trails where only a few trekkers seldom visit this isolated village offering grand views of Jomsom with snow clad peaks.

                      Morning a short walk as well last day of this adventure trekking where a few hour treks reach you at Kaligandaki river valley to Jomsom for last overnight within the high valley of Western Nepal Himalaya.

                      Jomsom headquarter town of Mustang region with a small airstrip above Kaligandaki River, an interesting country around Kaligandaki River valley within the dry and arid country with incredible views of windblown hills and canyons.

                          Cost Details
                          What's Included
                          • All airport Pick up drop by private vehicle
                          • 03 nights twin/double shearing deluxe accommodation on BB in Kathmandu
                          • 01 nights twin/double shearing accommodation on BB in Pokhara
                          • Guided sightseeing tours in Kathmandu and in Pokhara with privet vehicle.
                          • Kathmandu to Syange (if you want private vehicle from Kathmandu also available on additional cost) and Pokhara to Kathmandu by bus (if you want flight or private vehicle from Pokhara also available on additional cost)
                          • Jomsom to Pokhara by flight
                          • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and Trekkers’ Information Management System( TIMS card)
                          • A highly experience, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly , English speaking well trained, Government license holder guide with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, Transport and insurance.
                          • 02 guest=01 porter with their Insurance, Salary, Food, accommodation and equipment
                          • Accommodation in the mountain during the trekking
                          • We provide assistant guide his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, Transport and insurance walking with group to support where necessary as per the group size
                          • Three meals a day; breakfast, Lunch and Dinner during the trekking
                          • Safe drinking water
                          • All applicable government and local taxes as per the itinerary
                          What's not Included
                          • Your Nepal Visa fees 
                          • All the International airfare from and to Kathmandu 
                          • Lunch and Dinner  in Kathmandu and Pokhara
                          • Personal  travel and health Insurance, Insurance for helicopter evacuation
                          • In case of extra more night accommodation, lunch and dinner in a city due to early arrival and late departure as well as early back/return from mountain/trekking (due to any reason) than the given time period of an itinerary
                          • Your Personal expenses such as ( laundry, baggage charge, phone calls, battery recharge, bar and beverage bill, boiled or bottled water, hot and cold shower, extra porter.. etc)
                          •  The Tips to the trekking crews and drive
                          • Extra expenses due to flight delays, strikes, weather condition or any event out of our control
                          • Anything not included in service includes column 
                          Availability
                          • The trip departs everyday day of the year

                          • The trip and trek are fully customizable we can customize the trip according to the need and necessity of our clients

                          • The trip is available for solo travellers group travelers and private travelers

                          • We organize the trip for a large group and can provide service for a group of 100+ members as well

                          • If the given date are not appropriate for the travellers and trekkers, the trip can be conducted on the customary date provided by our clients

                          • Holiday tours Nepal advises all our clients to book at least 7 days prior so all the arrangements can be done in time, especially sometimes in the mountains where the accommodation are booked prior so prior booking helps a lot

                          Contact us at [email protected] or send us a text at +977-9816710843 or +977-9818178630 we are available 24/7 on WhatsApp, Viber, and WeChat for additional informations.

                          Useful Information

                          Tips for trekkers who are trekking in the Himalayas

                          • Build stamina, practice hiking and do some hikes that involves altitude to know how your body would react in high altitude.

                          • Let the loved ones know that you’re traveling to your family or loved ones and let them know about the agency that you’re traveling with.
                          • Stay connected, share your itinerary, respect local customs and be honest with the guide and let them know if you’re not feeling well
                          • Stay hydrated and nourished in the mountains and remember food is fuel if you stop consuming food remember your going to fall sick or lose energy so don’t stop eating.
                          • Be patient stay positive and trust your instincts and remember in altitude sometimes you feel angry and can have secondary thoughts.
                          • Check the weather forecast or ask the guide about the weather and what to wear.
                          • Respect local traditions, leave no trace, use eco friendly products and keep the trails clean.
                          • Keep the money, document and important documents safe
                          • Keep the power bank, cameras and electronics safe and at night try to cover the electronics with clothes so they stay warm and don’t drain the battery.

                          Tips for female travelers during periods in the mountains

                          • Know your cycle and pack accordingly sanitary pads, period underwear’s, menstrual cups and tampons.

                          • Pack sanitary pads in case sometimes the dates can be up and down and even someone might need in trek in case you don’t use it.

                          • Bring pain relivers like ibuprofen, heat patches, to ease cramps stay hydrated and eat good nutrition food.

                          • Wear comfortable and food layered clothing’s rest when needed and mind your mood.

                          Equipment and Gear List

                          GeneralGeneral

                          • Four-season (-20 degree) sleeping bag (We provide rental sleeping bags available for an additional USD 35)
                          • Puffy down jacket (We provide rental jackets for an additional USD 35)
                          • Daypack (25-30 liters recommended) with rain cover

                          CatUpper Body

                          • Sun hat or cap (We'll provide you with a trekking cap.)
                          • Warm woolen hat
                          • Scarf/Neck Buff (highly recommended to get saved from wind and cold)
                          • Headlamp or mobile torch light for nighttime
                          • Polarized sunglasses

                          TorsoTorso

                          • Technical fabric base layer thermals are light for warmer months, heavy for colder months
                          • Technical fabric t-shirts and sleeve sweaters or high-necks
                          • Waterproof rain jacket
                          • Windproof jacket for the walk as it gets windy
                          • Fleece jacket or down jacket

                          LowerLower Body

                          • Thermals inner
                          • Hiking pants at least 3
                          • Comfortable pants for teahouses
                          • Waterproof, windproof shell
                          • Hiking shorts

                          glovesHands

                          • Woolen gloves for the tea house
                          • Hard-shell windproof outer gloves for the walk

                          feetFeet

                          • Marino Wool or comfortable, warm socks
                          • Hiking socks
                          • Liner socks
                          • Trekking/hiking boots (waterproof recommended)
                          • Crampons (For passes)
                          • Casual shoes or sandals that are comfortable for the time in the tea house
                          • Gaiters (lightweight for rain and snow)

                          undergarmentUndergarments and Inner Wears

                          • Technical fabric/quick drying (can be washed during the trek)
                          • Sports bras (women)
                          • Sleeping clothes as per the comfortability

                          FirstaidFirst Aid Kits and Medications

                          Note: Our guides carry medications, oxygen cans, and first aid kits during the trip. However, personal kits and medications are recommended.) 

                          • Sunscreen SPF- 50+
                          • Lip balm or Vaseline
                          • ointment cream
                          • Cough Syrup and strepsils (recommended for Khumbu Cough)
                          • Creams and medicines (for any allergies or diseases)

                          Optional Other Essentials

                          • Passport
                          • Extra copies of passport-sized photos
                          • Reusable water bottle
                          • Toilet paper, small soap, and shampoo
                          • Water purification tablets or UV water purifier (if you plan to treat water)
                          • Water bladder for the day bag
                          • Small towel for personal use
                          • Pillowcase in case of allergies to new pillows
                          • High-protein snacks (such as mountain bars or nuts)
                          • Waterproof/dry bags for carrying essential documents, stuff, frequently used items, and money
                          • Power bank or extra batteries
                          • Cameras and mobile phone
                          • Cards/book
                          • Pee bottle/ pee funnel for women
                          • Trekking poles
                          • Whistle in case your voice is not loud enough to stop or start
                          • Thermos for hot water during the nighttime
                          • We give you a free duffel bag, trekking cap, maps, and t-shirt during your pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu. The duffel bag will be used to pack your trekking supplies.
                          • For every two participants, we assign one porter. The porter will carry the duffel bag, which should weigh around 10 kg/22 lbs., throughout the walk.
                          • Daypack bag for daily used stuff like cash, documents, papers, a water bottle or bladder, a camera, toiletries, sunscreen, a notebook, clothing, etc. (with a waterproof cover).
                          • You can store your luggage (on-trekking items) at the hotel in Kathmandu, and we can assist and help.
                          • Total luggage for the Kathmandu-Lukla flight is (15 kg/33 lbs.), including duffel (10 Kg/22 lbs.) and backpack (5 kg/11 lbs.)
                          • A down jacket with a hood(cap) to be warm in altitudes above 3,000m.
                          • We can provide a down jacket for USD 35. In case of loss or damage, you need to pay back the cost of USD 200 per item.
                          • We can provide a sleeping bag for USD 35. In case of loss or damage, USD 200 per item must be paid.

                          Essential bag pack for Tilicho Lake And Mesokanto La Pass Trek

                          Note: Supplies and gear can be rented or purchased in Kathmandu. Once you are in Nepal, you can buy supplies and gear for hiking if you have spare time. Holiday Tours Nepal representatives will assist you in purchasing the equipment. Thamel a tourist hub, offers a wide range of trekking equipment at affordable prices. Don't wear short clothes inside the monasteries and religious places.

                          Step by step process to get the Visa after landing in Nepal and what is the cost for visa in 2025?

                          • Follow the signs or the instructions of the persons and proceed to the arrival hall first.
                          • Fill out the arrival card that is provided at the immigration area or use the kiosk machine.
                          • Staffs and there are signs that will guide you to fill the form, paying the fees and getting visa.
                          • After filling the form procced to the dedicated counter to pay the visa fee.
                          • Visa fees can be paid in dollars, euro, pound and Nepali rupees is also accepted.
                          • For 2025 there is a on arrival visa, and the cost for a visa is USD 30 for 15 days. For 30 days the visa cost is USD 50; for 90 days, the visa cost is USD 125.
                          • After paying the fees present your passport, visa application, arrival card and payment receipt at the immigration counter.
                          • After all this process the immigration officer will issue the visa.
                          • After getting the visa you can come out of the airport and meet our representatives who will be waiting with a name plate outside the airport.
                          • As you walk out of the airport and cross the road you will meet our airport representative who will take you to the hotel and after that we will meet and talk in detail about the trip.

                          Why doesn’t Holiday Planner Nepal encourage joining groups or traveling with other travelers?

                          What we believe in is when you book the trek solo or with the group you know the solo traveler or the group book it solo because you don’t want to join a group and want to enjoy the trek by yourself and the cost is the same so why to join a group and ruin the experience.

                          Everyone has different mentality according to which the chemistry may not match up when joining a group which may lead to bad experience.

                          What is the difference between joining a group, going solo or with group you know?

                          Aspect

                          Trekking solo

                          Group you know

                          Group of strangers

                          Flexibility

                          Set you own pace and schedule your trip freely

                          Decisions are made by collaboration

                          A preplanned itinerary should be followed.

                          Comfort level

                          Sometimes can be felt lonely when the guides and porters are not there

                          Familiar companions who offer physical and emotional support

                          Requires getting adapted to new personalities and characters can be frustrating sometimes

                          Safety

                          Immediate help if guides and porters are around but in case of night time can be a problem.

                          Trusted companion with you in the twin room can provide support

                          Group leaders and members will provide safety.

                          Cost

                          Maybe higher compared to group

                          Shared cost reduces a bit of expenses

                          Economical as group discounts are provided in big groups

                          Social interaction

                          Limited unless meeting new people

                          Familiar environment with the person and travelers we know

                          Opportunity to make new friend but sometimes characters may cause problems

                          Planning

                          Fully flexible and the plan can be changed anytime

                          Group planning and then a final decision

                          Pre arrange itineraries by the organizer

                          Adaptability

                          Full freedom for changing plans

                          Adjustments can be made with a member or the team

                          Must stick to the group plans and schedule.

                          Experience rated and provided till date

                          Peaceful, freedom and flexibility

                          Quality time well spent with the persons we know

                          Unknown peoples and characters outcome can be both good or bad.

                           

                          Why Choose Holiday Tours Nepal?

                          At Holiday Tours Nepal, we provide expertly guided, safe, and personalized trekking experiences.
                          With decades of experience in Himalayan travel, our team ensures:

                          • Professional guides with local knowledge

                          • Flexible itineraries and small-group departures

                          • Authentic experiences and eco-friendly practices

                          We handle all logistics so you can focus on enjoying the adventure.

                          Conclusion & Call to Action

                          The Tilicho Lake and Mesokanto La Pass Trek is a thrilling journey through the heart of the Annapurna Himalayas — a perfect choice for experienced trekkers seeking solitude, challenge, and raw natural beauty. From serene alpine lakes to high mountain passes, every step reveals Nepal’s diverse landscapes and cultures.

                          Whether you dream of standing beside the tranquil waters of Tilicho Lake or conquering the mighty Mesokanto La Pass, this trek offers a once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan experience.

                          👉 Book your Tilicho Lake and Mesokanto La Pass Trekking adventure today with Holiday Tours Nepal — your trusted partner for trekking in Nepal’s majestic Himalayas!

                          Exclusive 10% OFF
                          Per PersonUS$1699US$1799
                          Group Discount Price
                          Number of peoplePrice per person
                          1 pax
                          US$1799
                          2 - 6 pax
                          US$1699
                          7 - 12 pax
                          US$1660
                          13 - 20 pax
                          US$1599
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