Tilicho Pass Trek

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Tilicho Mesokanto Pass Trek

Tilicho Pass Trek Summary

    1. Tilicho Pass Trek Duration: 10 Days
    2. Trip Difficulty: Moderate adventure
    3. High Altitude: 5,315 meters
    4. Trekking Hour: 6 Hours
    5. Group-Size: 1 – 16 People
    6. Best Time: April, May, October, and Mid November
    7. Trip Mode: Lodge + Alpine Tent
    8. Trekking Foods: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    9. Transport: Car/Plane/bus

Overview

The Tilicho Pass Trek is a premier adventure located in the Annapurna region, renowned for its rich cultural diversity and stunning natural beauty. Also known as Meokanto La, this trek offers breathtaking views of towering peaks including Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Mt. Annapurna I (8,091m), Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), Mt. Nilgiri (7,041m) and Mt. Fishtail (6,998m).

Additionally, hiking to Tilicho Lake, situated at 4,949m, is one of the highest lakes in the world. Mesokanta La Pass (5,315m) is also a significant feature of the trek, with many experienced trekkers referring to it as Meso Kanto La.

Moreover, trekkers have an opportunity to encounter diverse wildlife, including Mountain Thar/Goats, Leopards, and Jackals, as well as various bird species like pheasants and long-tail birds. It allows exploration of numerous local settlements, home to a mix of communities such as Chhetri, Tibetan Sherpa, Thakali, Magars, Tamang, and Gurung.

Tilicho pass or Mesokanto La trek, known for its moderate difficulty, is particularly scenic during the monsoon months of June, July, August, and September when wildflowers are in bloom. It is also a segment of the Great Himalayan Trail (GHT) in Nepal.

However, trekking in the Mesokanto La area is not feasible during winter due to significant snow deposits and ice, which render the path hazardous. Additionally, Kali Gandaki, the world’s deepest gorge, flanked by Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Mountains, presents a challenging ascent and descent, making it strenuous to complete in a single day.

tilicho lake trek team

How much does Mesokanto la Pass Trek Package Cost?

The cost of the Tilicho pass or Mesokanto la pass trek package with a Gokyo Treks local trekking agency in Nepal ranges between US$ 925 to US$ 1450. Tilicho Pass trek cost totally depends upon the service you choose. However, this figure package price includes transportation, a guide, porters, hotels and food accommodation and hiking permits, facilities.

However, we often arrange Meso Kanto la private trips in order to avoid group tours with strangers. A private tour gives you a better experience on your hikes. If you value personalization, flexibility, and in-depth experiences, a private trip customized to your personal needs will be the best option.

It’s a standard trek package price for 10 days hike to Mesokanto la route in the Annapurna massive. If you are 2 travelers Tilicho pass trek cost US$ 1060 per person as per given plan. We can modify the trek route and the prices according to your wish. Here is the price list for Tilicho pass trek in Nepal.

Price Per Person for 10 days Tilicho Pass Trek package for 2024 and 2025.

Number of TouristPrice Per Person
1 PersonUS$ 1450
2 PersonUS$ 1060
3 PersonUS$ 1060
4 to 6 personUS$ 1015
7 to 9 PersonUS$ 975
10 and more than 10 PersonUS$ 925

If you’re wondering to know about what is included and what is excluded from this trip price, kindly check on the cost given on a tab button.

Itinerary

Tilicho Pass Trek itinerary details

Trek to Tilicho pass is a classic 12-day journey, offering a comprehensive experience for world travelers seeking a comfortable hike to Tilicho and Meso Kanto La pass. For those with limited time, consider the Annapurna Round Short Trek, a 10-day option with a convenient flight from Jomsom to Pokhara.

01 Day Arrival at Kathmandu valley. Transfer to Hotel.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, Tribhuvan International Airport, we will receive you in a private vehicle and drop you at your hotel in Kathmandu. Our spokesperson will brief you on Tilicho pass trek information including its trek difficulty.

02 Day Drive to Besisahar by Public bus (760m/2,493 feet). And local jeep to Chame (2,630m/8,600 feet), 10 hours.

Early morning, Gokyo treks agency guide will come to take you to your hotel at 5:30 am. Drive with a taxi to the Gongabu bus station. We catch a regular Micro Bus that takes about 7 hours to reach Besisahar town. As you are in Besi Sahar, you have some stunning snow-capped mountain scenery.

Right after reaching Besi Sahar, we take a local bus/jeep (passenger collection basis) to Chame village.

Begins with the rocky mountain trails following the Marshyangdi Rivers steadily uphill to Tal at 1675 meters. Tal is the first settlement in the Manang district. Your overland drive journey will be nonstop with many up and down to Chame, the district headquarters of Manang district.

Tourists will get the finest view of Annapurna II and two tiny hot springs reaching Chame. We introduce a local community said to have migrated from Tibet in ancient times, noticeable by their different features. With them, they have bought local Tibetan house designs and maintained their ways.

03 DayPisang village trek (3,300m/10,827 feet), 5 hours.

The day starts across a deep forest in a steep and narrow Marshyangdi valley and crosses a river often. Annapurna holidaymakers will have a great view of the soaring Paungda Danda rock face including majestic landscapes. From there the trail joins to climb to Pisang, which sprawls between 3200 to 3300 meters. In the late afternoon, visit upper Pisang for an amazing Himalayan view.

04 DayManang trekking (3,540m/11,614 feet), 8 hours.

Our trail leads you through the drier upper part of Manang district, cut off from the full effect of the monsoon by the Annapurna Range. People of this region herd the yaks & raise crops for part of the year. They also continue to enjoy special trading rights gained way back in 1784. Leaving Pisang, we have alternate trails north and south of the Marsyandi River. The southern route passing over Humde airport is easier compared to the northern route via Ghyaru. Though, using an upper route offers an outstanding view on a trail that follows the northern bank of the river. Trailheads continuously through the hidden village of Braga at 3475m to nearby Manang at 3540m.

05 Day Excursion to the Glacier viewpoint. Khangsar Village (3,700m/12,139 feet), 5 hours.

In the morning, walk to the Gangapurna viewpoint and glacial lake. Walk towards Tilicho Lake, Manang one heads out through the western gates of Tenki Manang, and then one follows the path down to the river. After crossing the Khangsar Khola on the bridge below Khangsar and ascending the slope to the village, a village still in the old Tibetan style.

06 Day Trek to Tilicho Base Camp (4,200m/13,780 feet), 5 hours

Today is a tough day as we walk through the landslide and narrow trail to reach Tilicho lake. After Khangsar the trail heads through a recently constructed path up towards a high ridge passing Buddhist Gompa. It often traverses the slopes, high altitude and narrow with stone landslides. Former older path is much more difficult as it goes on a really steep screed. Later on, ACAP builds a new hiking path that goes completely safer comparing the earlier trails. Slowly testing our bodies and walking over the thin trail, we reach Tilicho Base Camp to stay overnight.

07 Day Tilicho Pass Trek (5,315m/17,438 feet) to Nam Phu Kharka, 7 hours.

Tilicho to Mesokanto Pass hikeHeading up the valley traversing through older moraine and glacial riverbanks we reach on Tilicho Lake (4,949m/16,183 feet). Continue uphill climb to the Mesokanto La pass of the Annapurna is a tough and comparatively difficult to Thorong la pass but the Himalayan Scenery is superb. Journey to Mesokanto la is extremely tough therefore we recommend it only for professional hikers. Colorful wild-flowers and orchids through a lake to Jomsom town is the best to explore in monsoon months. After the pass, we walk downhill to get to Nam Phu kharka to spend a night in a Tent.

08 DayNam Phu Kharka to Jomsom Bazaar hiking (2,665m/8,744 feet), 6 hours

Meso Kanto la to Jomsom trailAmazing day that you discern the best extensive view of Mount Nilgiri North (7061m), Nilgiri Central (6940m.), Nilgiri South (6839m.), Annapurna I (8091m.), Dhaulagiri I (8167m.), and Tukuche peak (6920m). Walk through the dry and desert landscapes to reach Kali Gandaki river bank than you walk over the sandy and windy trail to Jomsom where we stay overnight in a hotel.

Jomsom is a tiny town and the district headwaters of the Mustang district offers nice guest houses with a hot shower. Tourist can talk with a Guide and might also a short hike to Jomsom eco-museum in the afternoon if time permits. Despite that, travelers see an impressive Jomsom town, Thini village and Mt. Nilgiri on visit.

Mustang Eco Museum (established on 1992) displays various aspects of culture and nature of Mustang areas, such as Buddhist monastery, Herbarium, animal specimen, traditional dress, and artwork. A guided tour of the museum, library and video shows all traditional and cultural background of Mustang, Tibet and Nepal in general.

09 DayDrive (9 hours) or fly (25 minutes) to Pokhara city.

Tourist can descends all the way downhill through forests, tiny Thakali villages and beautiful Rupse waterfall. First part of the trek passes through a windy area covered with pine forests, rhododendron forests, and birches are seen. The surrounding area of Ghasa is a famous destination for bird watching and wild Marijuana. The Kali Gandaki valley is getting narrow nevertheless we drive continue passing Tatopani, Galeswor, and Beni we reach Baglung highway to drive to Pokhara. The whole journey takes roughly about 9 hours. Despite that, if you don’t like driving then you can take a flight as an option paying an additional cost of USD 90 for each passenger. As you arrive in Pokhara we transfer you to your hotel.

10 DayDrive out to Kathmandu

Morning we’ll drive back through the scenic countryside and during the route will stop for breakfast & lunch. It takes 7 hours back to Kathmandu. On arrival at Kathmandu, a guide will transfer to the hotel, and rest of the day relax or explore the surrounding areas and overnight at the hotel. And our trip ends. Wish you a wonderful journey.

Not satisfied with above plan?

Are you interested in planning a custom trip? this might take 2 to 3 minutes.

Cost

How much does the Tilicho Pass Trek package price?

It’s a 10 Days Classic Tilicho Pass Trek price start at US$ 925 and might reach up to US$ 1450 per person on double occupancy basis. Taking a private Jeep to and from Chame saves your time and riding the bus minimize the tour expenses. Gokyo Treks and Expedition agency notify this express Annapurna Circuit Trek Package price for 2024 and 2025 based on group size you are travelling with.

For the deluxe and luxury trekking tour plan, we add Pokhara – Kathmandu round trip airfare, 3-5-star category hotel deluxe air-conditioned room in Kathmandu, and Pokhara.

Likewise, standard lodge with attached toilet/bathroom on possible places on trek days. AND WE ARE OPEN TO CUSTOMIZING YOUR TOUR AND PACKAGES PRICE AS PER YOUR REQUIREMENTS.

Mesokanto Pass Trek Package Price Includes:

  • Kathmandu international airport transfer by private vehicle.
  • 2 nights double bedroom Tourist standard accommodation in Kathmandu.
  • 1-night Tourist standard accommodation on Phewa lakeside in Pokhara town.
  • 9 Breakfast, 7 Lunch and 8 Dinner during the Tilicho pass lodge basis trek
  • 7 night lodge accommodation (Tent accommodation with meals on day 7) along the Mesokanto La trek routes.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area permit fee
  • TIMS permit fee for Tilicho pass trekking.
  • Jomsom to Pokhara transfer by Local Bus / Local jeep (sharing basis).
  • Micro Bus transfer from Kathmandu to Besisahar and then local jeep to Chame Bazaar (sharing basis).
  • Tourist Bus transfer from Pokhara to Kathmandu Bus station and a private taxi to your hotel.
  • Fully escorted trek with English-speaking license holder local mountain trekking guide.
  • Professional porters (every 2 guests = 1 Porter basis) as each porter carry a maximum of 24 kilos of tourist backpacks.
  • Extra trekking Guide will be added of 7+ group members.
  • Insurance, Food and accommodation, and salary of Nepali trekking guide and porter.
  • Seasonal fruits like apples and pomegranates as a dessert (after Dinner) for Mesokanto la trekking routes.
  • Agency’s duffel bag (50 liters capacity), and trek poles if Necessary – return after the trek.
  • First aid medical kit including Oximeter to check your Oxygen level, Pulse rate to monitor every day to prepare for high altitude risk.
  • In a worst case, help with all Helicopter Rescue and evacuation arrangements (but not the rescue bills).
  • Trek completion certificate, and Tilicho pass trek map – Keep them as a souvenir.
  • Nepal Government Tax, VAT, and as well as Company service charge.

Mesokanto La Pass Trip Package Price Excludes:-

  • Lunch and Dinner during the staying in Kathmandu and Pokhara city.
  • Any kinds of battery charges, laundry service, phone calls, and hot showers during the trekking.
  • Tourist personal trekking equipment and Clothing.
  • Personal nature expenses, all types of drinks, and bar bills.
  • Travel Insurance which covers emergency rescue, evacuation, personal loss, or damage.
  • Any donation and monument entrance fees.
  • Gratuities for guide and porters [Tip is a culture, so they expect highly].

Group join

We can organize a private Tilicho Pass – Mesokanto Pass Trek starting on any date that works for you. Please contact us for more information.

FAQ

Question: Is pick-up service available on my arrival day in Kathmandu?

Answer: Yes sure. Provide us with your flight detail and request us to pick you up. Our representative will pick you up at Kathmandu international airport and transfer to you hotel.

Question: Do I need the experience to achieve Tilicho Pass Trek?

Answer: Crossing over the Tilicho Pass often gets snow thus some previous experiences are necessary. Especially the end of March month till early December months are better to cross without difficulties. Crossing in the Summer and monsoon months offers amazing wildflowers on journey makes the trip more scenic and easier.

Question: Can I store my extra luggage/stuff in Kathmandu?

Answer: Yes, you can leave your luggage stuffs at your hotel or at our office for a safe purpose.

Question: Is Mesokanto la trekking Safe for a solo female trekkers?

Answer: Yes, this trek is widely regarded as safe for solo woman trekkers. Our team consists of honest and friendly guides and respects tourist. We have been organizing treks for solo female travelers since our establishment, ensuring their safety and enjoyment throughout the journey. Traveling solo can be more costly due to single supplement charges associated with private trips.

Question: What kind of accommodation and food can I expect on Tilicho Pass Trekking?

Answer: We provide tourist standard lodge accommodation during the trekking routes except Nam Phu Kharka. At Nam Phu Kharka, we arrange tent accommodation with camping food. However, the rooms along this adventure are clean with cozy beds with nice mattresses and blankets. Nevertheless, we recommend you to take your own sleeping bags if you have it with you otherwise, you may rent it while you are in Kathmandu.

Additionally, you can get your food at the lodges along the journey. They cook a delicious range of mostly vegetarian such as Pasta, tuna bakes, noodles, potatoes, eggs, bread, soups, and fresh vegetable rice. Dinner and breakfast will provide in the same lodge you spend the night and Lunch will serve on the way to the next place where you hike.

Question: Will I have a HOT shower along my Tilicho Pass Trek?.

Answer: Hot showers are available at this Tilicho Pass Trek in a small cost except Mesokanto base camp and Namphu Kharka. It’s a good idea to carry a portable towel and prepare yourself for a basic facilities.

Question: How do I manage to drink water on Mesokanto Pass Trek?.

Answer: Along the trekking route, you will find numerous hotels and shops where you can purchase mineral water to drink. However, we recommend against buying mineral water in plastic bottles due to the lack of disposal facilities. Instead, consider opting for boiled water or bringing aqua tablets to purify the available water at campsites or streams along the way.

Question: Can I charge my mobile phone and digital camera bttery on my trip?

Answer: Yes! as you are choosing a lodge basis trek, you will have chance to recharge in a small cost. Travel with a portable power bank or bring an extra pair in case. Remember to bring your adapters!.

Question: Are there any communication facilities on my trek to cross Mesokanto Pass Trek?.

Answer: Yes, communication facilities are available along the Mesokanto Pass Trek route, though they can be limited. Many teahouses offer Wi-Fi, but the signal strength and reliability may vary, especially above Khangshar. It’s a good idea to have a local SIM card or a satellite phone for more reliable communication, particularly if you need to stay in touch regularly.

Question: When should I book my trip and what are the payment terms?.

Answer: We recommend booking your trip with us as early as possible. While we strive to accommodate last-minute bookings, a 15% advance deposit is required to secure your reservation. This deposit allows us to make all necessary arrangements for your trip however, the remaining payment can be settled upon your arrival in Nepal.

Question: Who will carry my luggage on Tilicho Mesokanto Pass Trek?

Answer: We provide porters to transfer your luggage from town. As we are a responsible local agency, each of our porter carry a maximum of 24 kilos of your backpack which means 2 guests (12 kg luggage of each guest): 1 porter basis.

Question: How much distance do I walk each day?

Answer: When walking in the mountains, the distance you cover each day can vary greatly due to gradient, terrain, and altitude. As such it is very hard to give specific distances for each day, however, you have to be prepared to walk for roughly about 5 hours each day.

Question: Do I need walking poles?

Answer: It is better for hike to Tilicho Pass with walking poles. Learn how to use trekking poles for balance and stability, whether on the sidewalk or on trails. Walking poles can help prevent slips and falls. They are just recommended but not compulsory.

Question: How much additional money do I need per day?.

Answer: It depends on your spending habits, but you should budget approximately US$ 10 – 12 per day for purchasing bottled water, energy chocolates, and tea/coffee. If you wish to upgrade accommodation, plan you budget accordingly. Note that you’ll need to carry Nepali local currency, as ATMs are unavailable and credit card payments are not accepted along the trek.

Mesokanto la – Tilicho Pass Trek highlights

  • Picturesque villages, turbulent river gorges with nice waterfalls.
  • Visit the old Buddhist monastery in Braga village – Explore beautiful Manang village
  • Tilicho pass offers an excellent Himalayan view of the whole Annapurna massive including the mystical Marshyangdi valley.
  • Typical Eco Museum in Jomsom, Views of Dhaulagiri Icefall, The world’s deepest gorge in the Kali Gandaki River.

The best time for Tilicho Pass Trekking

The best time for Tilicho Pass – Mesokanto La Trekking in Nepal is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These seasons offer the most favorable weather and optimal trekking conditions in the Annapurna zone.

During spring, the temperatures are mild, and the rhododendron forests along the path come alive with vibrant blooms, creating a picturesque landscape. Generally, the sky is a clear, and you can enjoy breathtaking views of the high mountains summit.

tilicho pass trail in winter

Autumn is another excellent time for Tilicho Pass Trek. The weather is stable, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures during the day. Likewise, the autumn months offer excellent visibility, allowing trekkers to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Annapurna summits, Gngapurna, Tilicho peak and Manaslu.

Both spring and autumn are considered the very busy seasons for hiking in Nepal, including the Tilicho high pass territory. Usually, the trail is a well maintained, and there is a festive atmosphere in the high mountain villages due to various cultural celebrations on your journey.

It’s worth noting that while these seasons are generally ideal, weather patterns can vary from year to year. It’s always a good idea to check the latest weather forecasts time to time that your holiday adventure to ensure the best possible experience.

Notes for Tilicho Pass Trekkers!

Trek to Tilicho Pass as stated above is a standard package plan, possible to customize at your request to accommodate your specific requirements. Local politics, landslides, cancellation of local flights, weather, transport, or a multitude of other factors that are beyond our control can result in a change of itinerary during on trip.

It is, however, very unlikely that the itinerary would be substantially altered. If alterations are necessary the leader will decide the best alternative option, taking into consideration the best interests of the whole group. When a change does occur, we do everything we can to minimize its effect, but we cannot be responsible for the results of changes or delays.

What makes Tilicho Pass Trek special?

The Tilicho Pass Trek is special for tourists due to its breathtaking scenery, including views of some of the highest peaks in the Himalayas, such as Mt. Dhaulagiri and Mt. Annapurna. It also features Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world, and the challenging Mesokanto La Pass, offering an adventurous and rewarding experience amidst diverse landscapes and cultures.

At Gokyo Treks and Expedition, we prioritize delivering quality services, with safety and success as our primary concerns. Our team comprises professional, experienced, and licensed local guides who possess extensive knowledge of the destinations. Moreover, we are committed to benefiting local communities and conserving natural resources, which helps to reduce costs and consumption.

Traveler’s Review

Just a superb journey to Tilicho Lake & Meso Kanto La

July 3, 2023

Embarking on a journey to Tilicho Pass proved to be a breathtaking experience for us, avid trekkers. After receiving a glowing recommendation from a friend in Tirol, Austria, we decided to book our trip with the esteemed Gokyo Treks Agency, a local favorite.

From the very beginning, our communication with Ammar, the agency’s owner, was smooth and efficient. We collaborated via email and WhatsApp to craft the perfect travel plan, aiming to embark on this adventure just before the onset of the pre-monsoon season in Nepal. The agency took care of all the necessary arrangements, including receiving us at the airport, providing trekking gears, securing permits, arranging a knowledgeable guide, 2 friendly porters and ensuring we had all essential equipment promptly.

Our journey began with a drive to Chame, which, admittedly, was a bit tiresome due to the off-road terrain. However, the journey gifted us with picturesque landscapes, including a captivating waterfall and charming villages along the Marshyangdi river, which refreshed our spirits. Walking through the valley was a tranquil and enchanting experience, as we were serenaded by the melodious songs of birds and the soothing sounds of rivers flowing.

Our exploration of Tilicho Lake – Meso Kanto la was nothing short of awe-inspiring, although the descent along the landslide trail did stir a hint of fear within us. Fortunately, we found comfortable lodge accommodations with delicious food to keep our stamina in check throughout the trek.

All credit goes to Ammar and the Gokyo Treks Agency for their exceptional services. They did an outstanding job, and we are absolutely delighted with our journey. We wholeheartedly recommend this company to anyone planning a trip to the majestic Himalayas.

Cheers to an unforgettable adventure!

Avatar for Simone Kistler
Simone Kistler

Response from Gokyo Treks Nepal

Dear Simone Kistler,

Thanks for writing the great review for your recent journey to Tilicho Pass. We hope you enjoyed your journey and hoping to see you again in Nepal. Stay connected and have a great time there !

Regards, Ammar

Mesokanto la Pass is beautiful but difficult to cross

May 14, 2021

Ammar Raj Guni is an exceptional and highly dependable agent when it comes to arranging trekking experiences. With his extensive guiding experience, he always offers well-informed insights and knowledge. What sets him apart is his highly competitive pricing, making the whole experience even more attractive.

Throughout the trek, Ammar’s transparency in calculations was commendable. Though our trek ended up being a few days longer than initially arranged, there were no unexpected costs at the end. He values working with local people from small villages, treating them with great social responsibility.

During the two days we spent at his house, we felt genuinely comfortable and welcomed. Without a doubt, I strongly recommend Ammar’s agency to anyone planning a trip to Nepal. His dedication to providing an authentic and enriching experience is truly commendable.

Avatar for Schreiner Lukas, Heidelberg, Germany.
Schreiner Lukas, Heidelberg, Germany.

Response from Gokyo Treks Nepal

Dear Schreiner Lukas,

Your review has filled us with absolute delight! We emphasize that customer satisfaction is our utmost priority and express our sincere gratitude for the kind words and appreciation.

Your appreciation motivates us to continually strive for excellence in delivering exceptional high passes adventures. We eagerly look forward to welcome you on another remarkable trip in the near future.

Your return will be a true pleasure for us. Thank you for choosing our services and assure you that we are always available to assist with any questions or assistance needed.

Warm regards, Ammar Raj Guni

From US$ 1071

2% Off US$ 1060See Group Discount
No. of peoplePrice Per Person
1 USD 1450
2 USD 1060
3 USD 1060
4 - 6 USD 1015
7 - 9 USD 975
10 + USD 925
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