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Panoramic mountain views at Tilicho Lake
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Annapurna Circuit Trek With Tilicho Lake

Recommended by 99% of travelers
Duration18 Days
CountryNepal
Trip GradeFairly Strenous
i
Maximum Altitude5,416m
Group SizeMin.2 pax
StartsPokhara
EndsPokhara
Travel StyleTrekking
Best TimeMarch to May and September to November

If you want to experience a little bit of everything that Nepal has to offer, then the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is a perfect option for you. It is an 18-day trekking program, but you can obviously customize the itinerary as per your wishes. The cost of the package will change as per the change in the itinerary.

The journey is packed with stunning mountain landscapes, lush forests, picturesque villages, indigenous communities, and mist-shrouded valleys. Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trekking is not an easy feat and definitely not for first-time trekkers. However, those who are well-prepared cannot find a more immersive journey like this.

Highlights

  • Experience a little bit of everything that Nepal has to offer on this trek
  • A perfect trekking program for experienced trekkers who are looking for challenges
  • Trek through lush forests, picturesque villages, and mist-shrouded valleys
  • Meet with many indigenous communities on the way and get to see their daily lifestyle
  • Witness incredible Himalayan mountain views along with diverse landscapes, from sub-tropical forests to barren hills
  • Explore the beautiful Manang village and hike to Ice Lake
  • Explore the beauty of Tilicho Lake
  • Trek via expansive meadows to the top of Thorong La pass
  • Visit Braga Gompa and Muktinath Temple
  • Walk along the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world

What to expect during the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek?

The Annapurna Circuit is an incredible trek in the Himalayan range. The mountain vistas along the trail will astound you. This trek explores the beautiful Manang Valley and the gorgeous Tilicho Lake. Similarly, you will cross the Thorong La pass and follow the deep Kali Gandaki Gorge. Traverse via dense rhododendron forests and remote mountain villages.

The trekking route goes from verdant valleys to barren hills. You will witness a wide variety of scenery during the Annapurna Circuit with the Tilicho Lake trek over 18 days. From cascading waterfalls and lush forests to arid terrain, the landscape changes quite drastically. Likewise, catch many gorgeous sunrises and sunsets throughout the journey.

During the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek, you will come across both Hindu and Buddhist religions. Along the trekking route, visit the ancient Braga Gompa and an important pilgrimage site called Muktinath Temple. Not only that, there are also many small stupas, prayer flags, and prayer wheels scattered around the Annapurna Circuit trail.

The mountain views get better and closer every day. You will witness Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft), Mt.Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), Tilicho Peak (7,134 m/23,406 ft), Mt. Fishtail (6,993 m/22,943 ft), Mt. Hiunchuli (6,441 m/21,132 ft), Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m/26,781 ft), and many others during the trek.

Towards the end of the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek, you will experience a thrilling flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. Spend a night in Pokhara before taking a scenic ride back to Kathmandu. Overall, the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek (18 days) lets you experience different cultures, enjoy nature, and offer a lifetime getaway in the wilderness of the Annapurna region.

Who can do the Annapurna Circuit Tilicho Lake trek?

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek itinerary is perfect for experienced trekkers. For beginner trekkers, this trek can get extremely challenging. We do not recommend Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trekking as anyone's first time traveling in the Himalayas.

If you have previously done Everest Base Camp trek, Langtang Valley trek, and Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, you can go for the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek 18 days.

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek preparation and packing

The offbeat trekking route of the Annapurna Circuit demands strong fitness and stamina. Trekkers have to engage in cardiovascular activities, regular long walks, and strength training for physical preparation for the trek. To be able to walk 6 hours a day on varying terrain, your stamina and strength matter a lot.

Do activities like running, cycling, jogging, swimming, hiking, etc to improve your stamina. Likewise, regular long walks are important to build your walking habit. If you go to the gym, build your leg and core strength and incorporate cardio at the end of your routine. For mental preparation, research about the trail and practice meditation.

Now, to pack for the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek, follow the below guideline. Note that all trekking clothes and gear are available for purchase or rent in Thamel, Kathmandu. So, you do not have to bring everything from home.

  • Thermal wear, underwear, trekking shirt and pants, dry tees
  • Fleece jacket, down jacket, windbreaker, clothing (4-5 pairs of each item)
  • Raincoat, rain pants, daypack and rain cover, backpack and rain cover, Sleeping bag & liner, stuff sack, duffle bag (provided by the company),
  • Scarf, gloves, sun cap, cotton socks, woolen socks, hiking shoes, and trekking boots
  • Trekking poles, water bottle, and water filter
  • Sunscreen, cold cream, face cream, sanitizer, soap, shampoo, wet wipes, lip balm, comb, sunglasses, toothbrush & paste, hand wash, toilet paper, etc
  • Bandage, electoral powder, insect repellent, antiseptic cream, paracetamol, antifungal cream, spray for sprain, band-aid, etc
  • Adapter, charger, power bank, torch, camera, and spare batteries
  • Travel insurance, permits, identity cards, passports, visas, and passport-size photos

Annapurna Circuit Tilicho Lake trek or Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley trek?

Annapurna Circuit Tilicho Lake and Manaslu Circuit, Tsum Valley, are two very strenuous trekking adventures. These two treks are for experienced trekkers who have strong mental and physical fitness. Both treks cross 5,000 meters above mountain passes. The Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley trek, however, takes place in Nepal within a restricted area and is subject to strict regulations.

The Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley trek is a great alternative to the Annapurna Circuit Tilicho Lake trek. It is less popular, much more offbeat, and isolated. The people you will meet, the trekking experience you will get, and the views you will see are completely different during both treks. Both are must-do treks in Nepal.

Are you ready for a lifetime experience?

If you love mountains and challenges, then you will love the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek. Book the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake 2024 at the best price with us. Our team of expert guides and porters will accompany you during the trip, making it safe and immersive.

If you have any queries, contact us at info@regulusnepal.com or +977 9851192662. To all the tourists, whether you have already visited Nepal before or this is your first time in the country, we, Regulus Treks & Expedition, will be your reliable travel partner.

Our team will take care of all the logistics involved during the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek and allow you to travel freely. Enjoy top-notch service at an affordable Annapurna Circuit Tilicho Lake trek cost with us. What are you waiting for? Book the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake 18 days now to get the price!

Itinerary
Trip PlanExpand all
01Day

The team of Regulus Treks and Expedition will welcome you at the airport upon your arrival. They will escort you to the hotel in a private vehicle. Spend some time in the hotel relaxing and later explore the bustling streets of Thamel. In the late evening, we will meet for a welcome dinner.

Max. Altitude: 1,400 m/4,600 ftMeals: Welcome dinnerAccommodation: 3 Star Hotel
02Day

In the morning, one of our tour guides will take you to some famous historical monuments such as Monkey Temple, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and Bouddhanath Stupa. Later in the day, you will join a trek briefing and meet with your mountain guide. Pack your duffle bag and do any last-minute shopping.

Max. Altitude: 1400 mMeals: Breakfast onlyAccommodation: 3 Star Hotel
03Day

Distance: 206 km/128 miles

Elevation: 1,100 m/3,609 ft

Duration: 8-9 hours

After breakfast, you will start driving from Kathmandu to Besisahar. Enjoy a comfortable and scenic ride. In Besisahar, change your vehicle and use a local jeep to drive to Jagat. The ride will be bumpy but beautiful.

Max. Altitude: 1,100 m/3,609 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Teahouse
04Day

Distance: 12.6 km/8 miles

Elevation: 1,960 m/6,430 ft

Duration: 6 hours

From Jagat, you will trek following the lush Himalayan foothills to Dharapani. The trail goes through rhododendron, oak, and pine forests. You will pass by small villages along the way, observing the daily lives of the locals. Likewise, the landscapes are beautiful and keep you motivated to walk.

05Day

Altitude: 2,610m /8,890ft

Duration: 6 hours

The trek starts today. Leaving Dharapni, you will follow a forested trail. The trail goes along the Marsyangdi River via a forest of oak, pine, fir, and maple. You can see excellent views of Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, and Lamjung Himal on the way to Chame.

Max. Altitude: 2,610m /8,890ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Teahouse
06Day

Distance: 13.2 km/8.2 miles

Altitude: 3,115 m/10,200 ft

Duration: 5-6 hours

From Chame, continue trekking via a steep, narrow valley to Paungda Danda Rock. It is a 1,500-meter-long rock rising from the Marsyangdi River. Further, you will trek northeast and descend to the Manang Valley floor. From here, the trail ascends to Pisang village, offering stunning views of Pisang Peak and Annapurna II on the way.

Max. Altitude: 3,115 m/10,200 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Lodge
07Day

Distance: 17 km/10.6 miles

Altitude: 3,540 m/11,300 ft

Duration: 6 hours

Following the upper trails via Geru village, you will trek to Manang village on this day. The trekking route is very scenic and offers breathtaking views of mountains such as Annapurna II to IV, Mt. Gangapurna, Pisang Peak, and Tilicho Peak.

As the elevation increases, you can see the change in the climate and the air. Soon, you will reach Barga Monastery. It is a centuries-old monastery. From here, trek to Manang to spend the night.

Max. Altitude: 3,540 m/11,300 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Lodge
08Day

Duration: 4-5 hours

Take an acclimatization break on this day and go on a thrilling hike to Ice Lake. It will help you avoid altitude sickness further on the journey. The hiking route is offbeat but offers a stunning mountain panorama. After the hike, come back to Manang village and explore it.

Max. Altitude: 3,540 m/11,300 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Lodge
09Day

Distance: 11 km/6.8 miles

Elevation: 3,700 m/12,139 ft

Duration: 5 hours

We have a short trekking day ahead of us. Leaving Maang village, we will trek to Khangsar village. The route is not crowded and steep. You have to be extra careful during trekking.

Max. Altitude: 3,700 m/12,139 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Teahouse
10Day

Distance: 8 km/5 miles

Elevation: 4,140 m/13,583 ft

Duration: 6 hours

The trail ascends from Khangsar village to Tilicho Base Camp. You will walk on the glacier route and gradually ascend to the base camp. This part of the trail is isolated and offers mesmerizing scenery.

Max. Altitude: 4,140 m/13,583 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Teahouse
11Day

Distance: 12 km/7.4 miles

Elevation: 4,949 m/16,138 ft

Duration: 5-6 hours

Begin the day early with a delicious breakfast and hike to Tilicho Lake. As per the season dn weather, you are highly likely to walk on snow-covered routes. You'll be astounded by the scenery when you get to the lake. Spend some time soaking in the beauty of the Tilicho lake and trek back to the base camp to spend the night.

Max. Altitude: 4,949 m/16,138 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Teahouse
12Day

Distance: 8 km/5 miles

Elevation: 4,040 m/13,020 ft

Duration: 5 hours

Today, we have a short trek from Tilicho Base Camp to Yak Kharka. You will retrace the trail back to Khangsar. From here, follow a different route and walk to Yak Kharka via meadows.

Max. Altitude: 4,040 m/13,020 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Teahouse
13Day

Distance: 8.5 km/5.2 miles

Altitude: 4,525 m/14,525 ft

Duration: 5 hours

The trail today takes you to the foot of Thorong La pass. You will ascend to a ride and then descend to Marsyangdi river. Cross the river with the help of a wooden bridge and follow a narrow trail. The trail further descends to Thorong Phedi, where you will spend the night. Enjoy the tranquility and wilderness of the area.

Max. Altitude: 4,525 m/14,525 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Teahouse
14Day

Distance: 15.6 km/9.6 miles

Altitude: 5,416 m/17,756 ft

Duration: 8-9 hours

You will cross the high Thorong La pass on this day. From Thorong Phedi, the trail ascends to the High Camp. From here, you will climb on a rocky trail to the top of the pass. The scenery from the top of the pass is surreal. You can see a distant view of the Tibetan plateau in the north and the majestic Himalayan mountains around you.

After relishing the view, follow a downhill trail to Muktinath Temple. It is an important pilgrimage center in Nepal for Hindus and Buddhists. Spend the night here and explore the temple early in the morning the next day. You can buy the original Shaligram and other valuable stones here.

Max. Altitude: 5,416 m/17,756 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Teahouse
15Day

Distance: 20 km/12.4 miles

Elevation: 2,720 m/8,924 ft

Duration: 6-7 hours

In the morning, you will visit the Muktinath temple. After exploring the temple, start trekking along the Kali Gandakir river gorge to Kagbeni. From here, the trail continues, following rugged terrain to Jomsom.

Max. Altitude: 2,720 m/8,924 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Teahouse
16Day

Elevation: 822 m/2,697 ft

Duration: 20 minutes

On this day, you will take a scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. Witness stunning aerial views of the snow-covered mountains during the flight. The guide will drop you at the hotel upon landing in Pokhara. The remaining day is free to rest and explore.

Max. Altitude: 822 m/2,697 ftMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinnerAccommodation: Teahouse
17Day

Distance: 205 km/127 miles

Altitude: 1,400 m/4,593 ft

Duration: 6-7 hours

Today, you will drive to Kathmandu. The ride will be very comfortable, and you will use a standard tourist bus. On the way, witness lovely scenery. Upon reaching Kathmandu, the guide will drop you at the hotel. Spend the remaining day resting and exploring the nearby area. Shop souvenirs and meet us in the late evening for a farewell dinner.

Max. Altitude: 1,400 m/4,593 ftMeals: BreakfastAccommodation: 3 Star Hotel
18Day

As the Annapurna circuit trek comes to an end, our team will drop you at the Tribhuvan International Airport. You will fly back to your home on this day. Let us know if you wish to do any other tour or trek in Nepal.

Meals: Breakfast
Route Map
Annapurna Circuit Tilicho Lake Trek Map, Route, Variation
Cost Details
Included
  • 3 nights of standerd accommodation in Kathmandu & 1 night in Pokhara (BB plan).
  • basic accommodation while trekking in a basic lodge/hotel includes 3 meals a day ( B L D ).
  • Hot drinks (Tea / Coffee).
  • An experienced, licensed, English speaking guide for sightseeing in Kathmandu.
  • A government registered trekking guide (English speaking with license) & a local porter (1 porter with 2 trekkers).
  • Fooding, lodging ,Salaries & insurance of  the staffs.
  • Ground transportation by bus from Kathmandu to Besishar to local transportation by jeep or bus ( as available) from Besishar to Syange.
  • Domestic flight (Jomsom-Pokhara-Ktm).
  • Transportation fees during ground-travel (airport pick up & drop).
  • Government-trained guides and required porters with their insurance, salary and meals.
  • Government taxes, entry fees and TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) permit & 
  • All applicable fees.
  • One cultural show and farewell dinner.
  • Trip Completion Certificate.
  • First Aid Kit.
Excluded
  • International flights.
  • Nepal entry visa.
  • Airport departure tax.
  • Entrance fees to monuments.
  • Extra showers, Battery recharge costs, laundry, etc.
  • Personal clothing and gears.
  • Food in Kathmandu ( also if earlier return to Kathmandu from Mountains due to any reason  than the scheduled Itinerary).
  • Unforeseen cost due to flight cancellation, weather conditions etc.
  • Tips to guide and porter.
  • Cancellation fees, if any from your side.
  • Hot shower.
  • Boiled water.
  • Wi -Fi.
  • Costs raised by conditions that are not under our control such as landslides, weather conditions, political unrest, illness, etc.
Dates & Availability
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Starts: Aug 04, 2024Ends: Aug 21, 2024
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Starts: Aug 11, 2024Ends: Aug 28, 2024
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Starts: Aug 18, 2024Ends: Sep 04, 2024
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Starts: Aug 25, 2024Ends: Sep 11, 2024
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Regulus Nepal ensures the security, contentment, and safety of our valued clientele. Our top priority is keeping you secure. Here are a few methods by which we protect your safety.

  • We have all the tools, supplies, and first aid kits we need.
  • Our trip leaders have received in-depth first-aid training.
  • Our trek leaders are fully authorized to halt the journey or continue if someone becomes ill.
  • In an emergency, we'll dispatch a helicopter for evacuation (insurance-covered).
  • The entire group will trek together.

Below is our trek cancellation/refund policy:

  • If we have to cancel the trek, we will return the money after deducting the expenses already incurred (hotel reservations, tea house reservations, transportation, permits, etc.).
  • The cancellation charge depends on the time you cancel the trek. The closer you cancel the trek to the day it is supposed to start, the higher the cancellation charge will be.
  • We wait 48 hours after the trip starts for guests to contact us if they do not join. After that, we assume the trip is canceled, and we, Regulus, will not refund the sum you had deposited.
Additional Info

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek permit

For the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek, you need an Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit and a TIMS Card.

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit cost for SAARC nationals: NPR 200 per person
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit cost for other countries: NPR 3000 per person
  • TIMS Card for SAARC nationals: NPR 600 per person
  • TIMS Card for other countries: NPR 1000 per person

Guide and porter during the trek

It is necessary to trek with a guide for a safe and smooth Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trekking experience. Likewise, the porter will carry the duffel bags during the trek. With the support of a guide and porter, you will get to enjoy the journey to the fullest.

Our mountain guides are trained and have many years of expertise, which makes them very reliable. They are friendly and can communicate in English, so you will not have any barriers. If you feel any discomfort, share it with them.

What is the best time to do the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trekking?

The best time to explore Tilicho Lake and cross the Thorong La pass is in the in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These two seasons are the safest and most favorable times for this trek because of stable weather, a moderate climate, and good trail conditions. You will witness great mountain panoramas along the trail.

The Tilicho Lake is not frozen, and the Thorong La pass is also open to cross. Likewise, you will also see a wide variety of vegetation throughout the trail. Other months (June, July, August, December, January, and February) do not have ideal weather conditions, so trekking becomes very challenging.

Do I need to get travel insurance for the Annapurna Circuit with the Tilicho Lake trek?

Yes, travel insurance is necessary if you want to do the Annapurna Circuit with the Tilicho Lake trek. It should cover emergency helicopter evacuations and medical bills. Do note that the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek route is very remote and strenuous.

The journey involves risks of altitude sickness and injuries. So, travel insurance with at least helicopter evacuation coverage provides a safety net for you. You can also cover flight cancellation, trip cancellation, loss/theft of your belongings, etc. in your travel insurance.

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek: difficulty and altitude sickness

The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek is strenuous. You will navigate a variety of terrains on this trek, including many steep ascents and descents. The average trek distance is 160 km to 230 km. The climate varies with the change in altitude. Every day, you will come across a new set of challenges.

Crossing the Thorong La pass is quite demanding. The trail is narrow, steep, and rugged. You have to walk 8 to 9 hours on that day. Long walking hours, limitations in network and other modern comforts, and diverse climates demand adjustment at every step of the journey.

Additionally, you also have to be careful of altitude sickness. Symptoms include headache, vomiting, nausea, insomnia, dizziness, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Acclimatize properly and ascend gradually. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and eat foods that provide energy and essential nutrients.

Accommodation and meals during the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek

The accommodation and meals will be simple during the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trekking. It is a tea house trek with twin-shared rooms. You can book single rooms along the trail by paying extra money at the time of booking. The rooms are not heated, so it can get quite old at night. Therefore, carry a sleeping bag with you.

The washrooms are mostly shared in the tea houses. Pack all the toiletries that you may need during the trek. Do not expect anything, especially at the higher part of the trail. You will also have meals in the tea houses. We provided breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a day. Trekkers can buy additional food and drinks by themselves.

It is recommended that you carry ample snacks for the trip. Boiled drinking is safe and costs you less money than buying a plastic water bottle. Dal bhat and thukpa will be the two major meals. You will get many other options like steak, fried rice, stew, chapati, noodles, momo, soups, porridge, etc.

FAQs

The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek is one of the longest treks in Nepal. It takes around 16 to 22 days to complete. You can definitely pick the itinerary that best suits your interest. During the standard Annapurna Circuit trek, you will cover around 160 km to 230 km.

Yes, the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek is difficult. Crossing the Thorong La pass is the most difficult part of this trek. Likewise, the Tilicho Lake route is also steep and tricky and involves glacier walking.

To do the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek, trekkers have to be strong physically and can walk at least 6 hours a day on mountainous terrain. Participants must have good stamina, endurance, and physical fitness. Likewise, previous trekking experience is also important.

Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake trek is very demanding for a beginner trekker. We do not recommend doing this trek as your first Himalayan trek. Do understand that the Himalayas are very different from any other mountain range around the world. And even if you may have trekking experience on other mountain ranges, it doesn't mean you are capable of handling the Himalayan trails.

Yes, the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek is worth 100%. The trekking route is still adventure, wild, and immersive. Packed with sensational mountain panoramas, intimate interactions with the locals, and a diverse ecosystem, the Annapurna Circuit Tilicho Lake offers a once-in-a-lifetime trekking experience.

If you are fit enough, then yes you can do the Annapurna Circuit Tilicho Lake Trek without training. However, most trekkers have to train for this trek before the journey starts.

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek is harder than the Everest Base Camp trek. On the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek, you will cross the highest mountain pass in Nepal, which is not the case during the EBC trek. Likewise, this trek route is also offbeat, unlike Everest.

The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek cost ranges from USD 1,450 to USD 2,250 per person. The cost of the package depends on the itinerary and services provided in it. You can customize the Annapurna Circuit trek package with us as per your budget.

What our Clients Say?
Recommended on:
R
25 Feb, 2024
The astonishing lake in the Himalaya

My 18 days trip in Nepal at Tilicho lake trekking was worth it.The beautiful mountains, villages, local people and their culture were all new to me and I loved it. The passes along the way was well managed by the community.Tilicho lake trek provides me a good knowledge of how to...

read more +
Rafal
Poland
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