Jun 18 - Jun 22, 2025 | Change
If you only have time for one side trip off the main Annapurna circuit, make time for the jaw-dropping vistas of Tilicho lake. Nestled against the backs of the Annapurna peaks, this brilliant blue lake at 5000m is a sight not to be missed. The trail to the lake is scenic but challenging, winding along loose eroded cliff sides to the Tilicho Base Camp lodge. From the lodge, there is a steep hike up to the lake and viewpoint that’s well worth the effort.
The middle of June typically marks the beginning of the monsoon. Clear mornings are still possible but get increasingly less likely towards the end of the month. Be prepared for rain and hot humid weather in the low elevation valleys. The added moister means the hills are beginning to change to their vibrant monsoon green. The weather is generally a little drier than in the low valleys at high altitude, but cloud cover can be frustrating when trekking to viewpoints. As always in the spring, early morning is your best chance for clear skies.
At a glance
On average there are 17 days with precipitation in
June. The highest point on the trek is
Tilicho Lake at
4919 m. During
June, expect high temperatures of around
7.9°C (46°F)
and lows down to
-2.1°C (28°F)
at Tilicho Lake.
Itinerary (5 days)
Add side trips by clicking '' in the itinerary below.
Extra rest days and overnights can be added once the itinerary is created. However any side trips must be added in this step before the itinerary is created.
Wed Jun 18 (day 1) |
---|
Manang (3540 m)
Acclimatization wise it is also possible to spend the 2nd night at Khangsar instead of Manang if you wish and the group agrees Overnight |
Thu Jun 19 (day 2) |
---|
Manang (3540 m) Overnight |
Fri Jun 20 (day 3) |
---|
Khangsar (3745 m)
About 2-3 hours from Manang |
Shree Kharka (4080 m)
About 2-3 hours from Khangsar |
Tilicho Base Camp (3900 m)
About 6-9 hours from Manang, about 4-6 hours from Khangsar, or about 2-3 hours from Shree Kharka Overnight |
Sat Jun 21 (day 4) |
---|
Tilicho Lake (4919 m)
About 2-4 hours up to the lake and about 1-1.5 hours back. While it's possible to see Tilicho Lake in the morning and make it to Yak Kharkha the same day it's more leisurely to add an extra rest day. This option would also give more time to explore the lake. |
Shree Kharka (4080 m)
About 2 hours from Tilicho Base Camp |
Yak Kharka (4020 m)
About 5-6 hours from Tilicho Base Camp, or about 4 hours from Shree Kharka Overnight |
Sun Jun 22 (day 5) |
---|
via Tilicho Lake Itinerary Reviews
Annapurna Circuit Classic finish via Poon Hill, via Tilicho Lake, and Classic Start from Besi Sahar led by Ang Tsering Sherpa
Tilicho lake was a great side trip. It can be quite a strenuous day if coming from Manang and climbing Tilicho on the same day, but it's definitely worth it!
Annapurna Circuit via Tilicho Lake, via Kagbeni, and via Marpha led by Pasang Dawa Sherpa
This part of the trek was much more challenging and dangerous than I expected however it was very rewarding and worth the effort! Pasang was, of course, a most excellent leader!
Annapurna Circuit via Tilicho Lake and Classic finish via Poon Hill led by Mingma Nuru Sherpa
great view and worth all the efforts!