New Trekking Route to Tilicho Lake Opens, Offering a Scenic Adventure

A new trekking route to Tilicho Lake, the world’s highest lake at an altitude of 4,919 meters, has recently come into operation. The lake, located in the Manang district of Nepal, now has an alternative trail beginning from Thini in Gharapjhong Rural Municipality-5, Jomsom, Mustang district. Previously, trekkers accessed Tilicho Lake from Chame in Manang via Khangsar.

The new route, supported by the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) and the local government, takes adventurers through Thini, Namakhu Lake, Nilgiri Icefall, Chema Tal, and Mesokondo Pass. According to Mohan Singh Lalchan, Chairperson of Gharapjhong Rural Municipality, domestic tourists have already started trekking to the lake using the newly constructed path.

The rural municipality allocated Rs 5 million for the project, while ACAP contributed Rs 1 million. Chairperson Lalchan shared that trekkers can now reach Tilicho Lake and return within two days. The journey involves a two-hour drive from Jomsom and an additional six-hour trek along the new route.

Trekkers should prepare for a self-sustained journey, as there are currently no hotels or restaurants along the trail. “Trekkers need to bring their own food and accommodation supplies,” said Lalchan.

Recent trekkers have praised the new route for its stunning natural beauty. Tula Buda Magar of Myagdi district shared his experience of hiking to Tilicho Lake. “It took me an hour on foot from Mesokondo Pass to reach the lake. The breathtaking view of the blue, crystal-clear waters made the challenging uphill trek worthwhile,” he recalled.

The route features informative signboards to guide trekkers, added Pramod Raj Regmi of ACAP, Jomsom, making the trek both scenic and accessible for adventure seekers.