Tilicho Lake sits in a bare, wind-scoured basin in the Manang district of the Annapurna Conservation Area, a few hours above the nearest lodge and many hours from the nearest road. It is usually described as being at about 4,919 m, which places it among the highest large lakes on Earth that people can visit on foot. This page collects the key facts and the stories, so you know what to expect before you plan.
Key facts at a glance
Figures are approximate, and small differences between maps and your own watch are normal.
- Elevation: about 4,919 m (figures from different sources vary by a few tens of metres).
- Size: roughly 4 km long and 1 to 1.5 km wide, though published numbers differ.
- District: Manang, Gandaki Province, in the Annapurna Conservation Area.
- Starting point: Manang village at about 3,540 m, via Khangsar and a high base lodge.
- Peak above: Tilicho Peak, about 7,134 m, to the south of the lake.
- Nearby pass: Mesokanto La, about 5,099 m, which leads to Jomsom side.
- Season: mainly spring and autumn; the lake is often frozen or part-frozen in cold months.
What you see when you arrive
Most people expect a postcard turquoise colour. What they often find is a vast, flat sheet of grey-blue water or ice, enclosed by pale scree slopes and ringed by high, glaciated peaks. There are no trees and no village. The scale and silence do the work. Colours change with light and season: in bright autumn sun the water can look deep blue, while in spring ice and snow cover large parts of it.
The pilgrimage story
For Hindus, Tilicho is associated with the sacred lake of Kak Bhusundi described in the Ramayana tradition, and pilgrims sometimes visit in specific seasons. For local Buddhists, high lakes and mountains are the abodes of protective deities. Whether you hold these beliefs or not, behave quietly, avoid litter and do not bathe or wash in the lake.
Exploration history
The area drew attention during the 1950 French Annapurna expedition, whose members explored the approaches around the massif while seeking a route to Annapurna I. Tilicho appears in expedition accounts from that period, helping establish it as a named landmark for outsiders. Local people had known and used the area for grazing and religious purposes long before.
Why people choose it
- It is one of the few high-altitude lake treks that can be combined with the Annapurna Circuit.
- The route from Manang is dramatic: exposed ridges, canyon walls and big mountain views.
- It offers a sense of remoteness and achievement beyond the standard Circuit.
- The Mesokanto La option provides an alternative way to reach Jomsom and the Kali Gandaki side.
Reality check
Tilicho is not a casual side trip. It involves a steep, exposed day to the lake, potential rockfall and landslide sections, cold winds and high altitude. It rewards careful planning, a good guide and a spare day for weather. See route and safety notes and a day-by-day itinerary.
How it differs from Tilicho Peak
Tilicho Lake is a trek; Tilicho Peak is a climbing objective. If you are curious about the peak, our pages on Tilicho Lake trek vs Tilicho Peak and Tilicho Peak height and overview explain the difference.
Common questions
How high is Tilicho Lake?
About 4,919 m, though sources vary slightly. It is one of the highest large lakes that trekkers can reach.
Is Tilicho Lake frozen?
Often in cold months and in early spring. In autumn it is usually mostly open water with ice at the edges and in shaded parts.
Can I swim in Tilicho Lake?
No. It is extremely cold, culturally sensitive and dangerous at this altitude. Do not bathe or wash in the lake.
What our guests say
Excerpts from trekker reviews on our reviews page.
“Superb trek lead, fantastic experience, perfect weather prediction, had a great knowledge on all peaks.”
