What permits and documents do I need?

Required permits: Climbing Permit (Ministry of Tourism), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), TIMS Card, Garbage Deposit. We arrange all permits on your behalf once we receive your passport copy and 4 passport-size photos. You also need a Nepal visa (USD 30 for 15 days, obtained on arrival at Kathmandu airport) and travel insurance covering trekking to 7134m and helicopter evacuation. Bring your original passport, visa, insurance certificate, and photos to Nepal. Related permit guides: Mardi Himal Vs Annapurna Circuit Scenery Time.

Is altitude sickness a risk and how do I prevent it?

Above 3,500m, altitude sickness (AMS) affects 25-40% of trekkers. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days, guides carry pulse oximeters and emergency oxygen, and they are trained to identify early symptoms. Prevention: ascend slowly (no more than 300-500m sleeping altitude per day above 3,500m), drink 3-4 liters of water daily, avoid alcohol above 3,500m, eat light meals, and report any symptoms immediately. Travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation (USD 10,000) is mandatory. Read our altitude safety guides: Beginner Annapurna Treks Manageable Altitude, 12 Day Annapurna Circuit Too Rushed Acclimatization.

What accommodation and meals are included?

Accommodation: Star Hotel, Tea House, Base Camp Camping. Tea houses are family-run lodges with simple twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast. Three meals daily (BLD) are included during the trek with tea and coffee. Menu includes dal bhat, momos, noodles, soups, and seasonal vegetables. Vegetarian options are widely available.

What should I pack and what equipment do you provide?

Essential gear: 4-season sleeping bag (-15C to -20C), down jacket, broken-in trekking boots, merino base layers (2 sets), mid-layer fleece, hard shell jacket, trekking pants (2), warm hat, gloves, 4-5 pairs wool socks, headlamp, 2L water bottle, sunscreen SPF 50. We provide free rental: sleeping bag (USD 30 deposit), down jacket (USD 20 deposit), duffel bag, trekking poles, first-aid kit, and emergency oxygen. See the Things to Carry tab above for the complete list. Packing guides: Annapurna Circuit Packing List Warm Valleys Cold Pass.

What permits and documents do I need?

Required permits: Climbing Permit (Ministry of Tourism), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), TIMS Card, Garbage Deposit. We arrange all permits on your behalf once we receive your passport copy and 4 passport-size photos. You also need a Nepal visa (USD 30 for 15 days, obtained on arrival at Kathmandu airport) and travel insurance covering trekking to 7134m and helicopter evacuation. Bring your original passport, visa, insurance certificate, and photos to Nepal. Related permit guides: Mardi Himal Vs Annapurna Circuit Scenery Time.

Is altitude sickness a risk and how do I prevent it?

Above 3,500m, altitude sickness (AMS) affects 25-40% of trekkers. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days, guides carry pulse oximeters and emergency oxygen, and they are trained to identify early symptoms. Prevention: ascend slowly (no more than 300-500m sleeping altitude per day above 3,500m), drink 3-4 liters of water daily, avoid alcohol above 3,500m, eat light meals, and report any symptoms immediately. Travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation (USD 10,000) is mandatory. Read our altitude safety guides: Beginner Annapurna Treks Manageable Altitude, 12 Day Annapurna Circuit Too Rushed Acclimatization.

What accommodation and meals are included?

Accommodation: Star Hotel, Tea House, Base Camp Camping. Tea houses are family-run lodges with simple twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast. Three meals daily (BLD) are included during the trek with tea and coffee. Menu includes dal bhat, momos, noodles, soups, and seasonal vegetables. Vegetarian options are widely available.

What should I pack and what equipment do you provide?

Essential gear: 4-season sleeping bag (-15C to -20C), down jacket, broken-in trekking boots, merino base layers (2 sets), mid-layer fleece, hard shell jacket, trekking pants (2), warm hat, gloves, 4-5 pairs wool socks, headlamp, 2L water bottle, sunscreen SPF 50. We provide free rental: sleeping bag (USD 30 deposit), down jacket (USD 20 deposit), duffel bag, trekking poles, first-aid kit, and emergency oxygen. See the Things to Carry tab above for the complete list. Packing guides: Annapurna Circuit Packing List Warm Valleys Cold Pass.

Tilicho Peak Expedition

Transportation
Flight + Private Vehicle
Group Size
Max 6
Maximum Altitude
7134
Accomodation
Star Hotel, Tea House, Base Camp Camping
Fitness level
Very High
Arrival on
Kathmandu
Departure from
Kathmandu
Best season
Spring (March to May) brings warming weather, rhododendron blooms, and reliable mountain visibility. Autumn (September to November) offers the clearest skies, crisp air, and stable trekking conditions. Winter (December to February) is cold but possible on lower routes. Summer monsoon (June to August) brings rain and obscured views.
Guiding method
Live Personal Climbing Guide (Sherpa)
Tour type
Expedition
Language
English
Meals
Includes (BLD) + Expedition Camp Meals
Permits
Climbing Permit (Ministry of Tourism), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), TIMS Card, Garbage Deposit.
Destinations
Annapurna Region
Activities
Hiking, Peak Climbing, Trekking
Trip Type
Camping, High Altitude, Nature Friendly
Difficulty
Hard

Tilicho Peak (7,134m / 23,400 ft) is an expedition peak in the Annapurna region of north-central Nepal, located immediately above Tilicho Lake (4,919m), one of the highest lakes in the world. The peak lies at approximately 28 degrees 41 minutes north latitude and 83 degrees 51 minutes east longitude, in the Annapurna Conservation Area. Tilicho Peak was first climbed in 1978 by a French expedition led by Emmanuel Schmutz, via the northwest ridge. The mountain is classified as an expedition peak requiring a climbing permit from the Ministry of Tourism.The standard route climbs the northwest ridge, with Base Camp at approximately 4,800m near Tilicho Lake. The route establishes three high camps: Camp 1 at 5,500m on the lower northwest ridge, Camp 2 at 6,000m on the upper ridge, and Camp 3 at 6,400m at the base of the summit pyramid. The summit push from Camp 3 involves climbing 40-50 degree snow slopes with some short ice pitches on the upper mountain, with the final section climbing a steep headwall to the summit. The technical difficulty is rated AD on the Alpine grading system, similar to Himlung Himal and Baruntse.Tilicho Peak is one of the most scenically located expedition peaks in Nepal, with Base Camp situated on the shores of Tilicho Lake (4,919m), one of the highest lakes in the world. The lake is surrounded by the grand peaks of the Annapurna range, including Annapurna I (8,091m) to the south and the dramatic Nilgiri North (7,061m) to the west. The summit rewards climbers with views of the entire Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri (8,167m), the Tibetan plateau, and the dramatic Kali Gandaki gorge below.The approach follows the classic Annapurna Circuit route from Besisahar through Chame, Pisang, and Manang, then branches west to Khangsar and Tilicho Base Camp near the lake. The region is culturally Tibetan Buddhist Manangi homeland, with traditional villages, ancient gompas, and prayer walls along the trail. The best climbing seasons are spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November), with autumn being more popular for Tilicho due to more stable snow conditions on the upper mountain.

Highlights

Climb a 7,134m expedition peak first summited in 1978 by a French expedition led by Emmanuel Schmutz.
Located immediately above Tilicho Lake (4,919m), one of the highest lakes in the world.
Three high camps at 5,500m, 6,000m, and 6,400m on the northwest ridge route.
Base Camp on the shores of Tilicho Lake - one of the most scenic base camps in Nepal.
Summit views of the entire Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri (8,167m), and the Tibetan plateau.

Day 01 :

Arrival in Kathmandu

Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport with private vehicle transfer to your hotel in Thamel. Evening welcome dinner and expedition briefing.

Day 02 :

Trek Briefing & Equipment Check

Full day expedition briefing and permit processing with the Ministry of Tourism. Equipment check and packing.

Day 03 :

Drive to Besisahar

6-hour scenic drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar, the starting point of the Annapurna Circuit. Evening expedition briefing.

Day 04 :

Drive to Chame

Continue by jeep from Besisahar through the Marsyangdi Valley to Chame, the district headquarters. First close views of Annapurna II.

Day 05 :

Trek to Pisang

Climb through dramatic forested gorge with views of Pisang Peak and Annapurna II. Arrive at Upper Pisang village.

Day 06 :

Trek to Manang

Continue on the high route through Ghyaru and Ngawal villages with stunning mountain views, then descend to the broad Manang valley.

Day 07 :

Acclimatization in Manang

Full acclimatization day in Manang. Optional hike to Ice Lake (4,640m) for spectacular views of the Annapurna range.

Day 08 :

Trek to Khangsar

Leave the main Annapurna Circuit trail at Manang and climb westward to the traditional Manangi village of Khangsar, the last village before Tilicho Lake.

Day 09 :

Trek to Tilicho Base Camp

Continue climbing above Khangsar through dramatic canyon scenery to reach Tilicho Base Camp at 4,800m near Tilicho Lake. Establish full base camp with dining tent, kitchen, and communication equipment.

Day 10 :

Rest & Acclimatization at Base Camp

Full acclimatization day at Base Camp. Optional short hike to Tilicho Lake (4,919m), one of the highest lakes in the world. Equipment check.

Day 11 :

Puja Ceremony & Climbing Training at Base Camp

Traditional Buddhist puja ceremony to bless the expedition, followed by climbing training. Pack and prepare for the Camp 1 carry.

Day 12 :

Establish Camp 1

Climb the lower northwest ridge on fixed ropes to establish Camp 1 at 5,500m. Carry loads and return to Base Camp.

Day 13 :

Move to Camp 1

Climb to Camp 1 and establish the camp. Spend the night at altitude for acclimatization.

Day 14 :

Establish Camp 2

Climb the northwest ridge to establish Camp 2 at 6,000m. Carry loads and return to Camp 1.

Day 15 :

Acclimatization at Camp 2

Climb to Camp 2 for acclimatization. Optional short climb higher. Return to Camp 1 for the night.

Day 16 :

Establish Camp 3

Climb the upper northwest ridge to establish Camp 3 at 6,400m at the base of the summit pyramid. Carry loads and return to Camp 2.

Day 17 :

Move to Camp 2

Climb back to Camp 2 to prepare for the move to Camp 3.

Day 18 :

Move to Camp 3

Climb to Camp 3 to prepare for the summit push. Rest and hydrate for the early start.

Day 19 :

Summit Push & Descend to Camp 2

Pre-dawn start at midnight. Climb 40-50 degree snow slopes and the steep summit headwall on fixed ropes to the 7,134m summit. Spectacular views of the entire Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, and the Tibetan plateau. Descend to Camp 2.

Day 20 :

Descend to Base Camp

Continue descending from Camp 2 to Base Camp for celebration and hot meals.

Day 21 :

Buffer Day at Base Camp

Buffer day reserved for weather or acclimatization. If the summit was achieved on Day 19, rest at Base Camp. If summit was postponed, attempt again from Camp 3.

Day 22 :

Trek to Khangsar

Descend from Base Camp back to Khangsar village for rest and a celebratory meal with the local Manangi community.

Day 23 :

Trek to Manang

Continue descending back to Manang village. Visit the Braga gompa, one of the oldest in the region.

Day 24 :

Trek to Chame

Continue descending through Upper Pisang and Bhratang back to Chame. Hot springs visit in the late afternoon.

Day 25 :

Trek to Dharapani & Drive to Besisahar, then to Kathmandu

Descend from Chame through Tal village to Dharapani, then continue by jeep to Besisahar and private vehicle to Kathmandu. Check in to hotel and evening farewell dinner.

Day 26 :

Final Departure

Private vehicle transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight.

Things to Carry for Tilicho Peak Expedition

Headwear

Warm fleece or wool beanie hat (essential for cold mornings)
Sun hat with wide brim for UV protection
Neck gaiter or buff (multi-purpose for dust, wind, cold)
Sunglasses with UV protection (Category 3 or 4)
Ski goggles for high-altitude passes and snow

Upper Body Layering

2x merino wool base layers (long sleeve)
1x mid-layer fleece jacket
1x soft shell jacket for wind and light rain
1x hard shell jacket with hood (Gore-Tex)
1x down jacket rated to -25C (we provide rental for USD 20)

Lower Body

2x trekking pants (quick-dry, one convertible)
1x thermal bottom layer for cold nights
1x rain pants (Gore-Tex)
2x merino wool underwear
1x swimwear (for hot springs)

Hands

1x thin liner gloves (merino or fleece)
1x insulated waterproof gloves
1x expedition mittens for passes above 5,000m

Footwear

1x sturdy trekking boots (broken in for 50+ km, waterproof)
1x camp shoes or sandals for evenings
4-5x pairs merino wool trekking socks
2x pairs liner socks
Gaiters for snow, scree, and mud

Sleeping Gear

1x 4-season sleeping bag rated to -20C (we provide rental for USD 30)
1x sleeping bag liner (silk or fleece)
1x inflatable sleeping pad

Trekking Equipment

1x trekking poles pair (essential for descents, we provide rental for USD 15)
1x headlamp with spare batteries (200+ lumens)
1x 20-30L day pack
1x large duffel bag 80-100L (we provide free)
1x dry bag for electronics
1x water bottle or hydration bladder (2L minimum)

First Aid & Health

Personal prescription medications (with doctor’s letter)
Diamox for altitude sickness (consult your doctor)
Ibuprofen and paracetamol
Imodium for stomach issues
Rehydration sachets (ORS)
Blister treatment (Compeed, moleskin)
Antiseptic wipes and bandages
Lip balm with SPF 30+
Sunscreen SPF 50+ (bring 2 tubes)
Insect repellent (DEET 30-50%)
Hand sanitizer
Toilet paper and wet wipes

Electronics

Camera with extra batteries (cold drains fast, bring 2-3 spares)
Power bank (20,000mAh minimum)
Universal power adapter (Nepal 220V, Type C/D/M)
Headphones
eReader or book

Documents

Valid passport (6+ months validity, 4 extra passport photos)
Travel insurance certificate (covering trekking to 7134m)
Flight tickets
Credit cards and USD cash
Emergency contacts

What We Provide (Rental)

4-season sleeping bag (rental USD 30 with deposit)
Down jacket (rental USD 20 with deposit)
Duffel bag for porter carriage (free, you keep it)
Trekking poles (rental USD 15)
First-aid kit, pulse oximeter, emergency oxygen
Water purification tablets
Satellite phone on remote treks

Related Packing Guides

Read our detailed packing guides: Annapurna Circuit Packing List Warm Valleys Cold Pass, Island Peak Climbing Gear Bring From Home Vs Rent, Island Peak Climbing Total Budget Gear Tips Permits, Budget Mera Peak Climb Gear Insurance.

Note: Pack light. Porter weight limit is 15kg per trekker. Layers are key for mountain weather. We send a detailed seasonal packing list after booking.

Know Before You Book – Tilicho Peak Expedition Information

Trip Name: Tilicho Peak Expedition – 26 Days
Duration: 26 days
Difficulty: Hard
Maximum Altitude: 7134m
Group Size: Max 6

Difficulty & Fitness

This trek is rated Hard. Hard treks involve 6-8+ hours of walking daily at high altitude. Previous high-altitude experience strongly recommended. The maximum altitude is 7134m. You need a fitness level of Very High – cardio training 3-4 times weekly for 8-12 weeks before departure, hill walking with a day pack, and core strength exercises.

Read our difficulty guides: Annapurna Base Camp Vs Mardi Himal Scenery Difficulty, Ghorepani Poon Hill Vs Mardi Himal Views Difficulty.

Best Time to Go

Spring (March to May) brings warming weather, rhododendron blooms, and reliable mountain visibility. Autumn (September to November) offers the clearest skies, crisp air, and stable trekking conditions. Winter (December to February) is cold but possible on lower routes. Summer monsoon (June to August) brings rain and obscured views.

Read our seasonal guides: Annapurna Region Treks Crowded Peak Season, Annapurna Short Treks Crowded Peak Season.

Accommodation & Meals

Accommodation: Star Hotel, Tea House, Base Camp Camping. Tea houses are family-run lodges with simple twin-share rooms and shared bathrooms. Luxury lodges (where available) offer heated ensuite rooms. 3-star or higher hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast. Three meals daily (BLD) included during treks with tea and coffee. Vegetarian options widely available.

Food and water guides: Tea House Trekking Annapurna Circuit, Poon Hill Trek Teahouses And Food Guide.

Transportation

Transport: Flight + Private Vehicle. Domestic flights (where applicable) are weather-dependent – build 1-2 buffer days into your schedule. Private ground transport uses comfortable AC vehicles.

Flight and transport guides: Australian Travelers Flights Rest Days Annapurna Base Camp, Reliable Pikey Peak Trek Reviews Guides Transport Teahouses.

Required Permits

Climbing Permit (Ministry of Tourism), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), TIMS Card, Garbage Deposit. We arrange all permits on your behalf once we receive your passport copy and 4 passport-size photos after booking. Permit fees are included in your trip cost.

Permit guides: Mardi Himal Vs Annapurna Circuit Scenery Time, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Permits Guide.

Altitude Safety

Maximum altitude is 7134m. Above 3,500m, altitude sickness is a real risk. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days, guides carry pulse oximeters and emergency oxygen. Walk slowly, stay hydrated (3-4 liters daily), avoid alcohol above 3,500m, report symptoms immediately. Travel insurance covering helicopter evacuation is mandatory.

Altitude safety guides: Beginner Annapurna Treks Manageable Altitude, 12 Day Annapurna Circuit Too Rushed Acclimatization.

Training & Preparation

Read our training guides: Annapurna Circuit Trek Fitness Level, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Operator Mixed Fitness.

Insurance Requirement

Travel insurance is mandatory for all our treks and tours. Your insurance must cover trekking to 7134m altitude (for treks), emergency helicopter evacuation up to USD 10,000, emergency medical treatment, and trip cancellation. We recommend World Nomads, IMG Global, or Allianz Adventure plans. Bring a printed copy of your insurance certificate.

Insurance guides: Nepal Peak Climbing Travel Insurance Australians Check, Mera Peak Climbing Insurance Australia.

Cultural Etiquette

Dress modestly at religious sites (cover shoulders and knees). Remove shoes before entering temple sanctums. Walk clockwise around stupas and chortens. Ask permission before photographing people. Use your right hand for eating and passing items. Say namaste (palms together) as a greeting.

Culture guides: Manaslu Vs Annapurna Circuit Village Culture, Annapurna Circuit Mountain Views Villages Culture.

Booking & Payment

To confirm your booking, a deposit is required (50% for helicopter tours). The balance is due 30 days before departure (7 days for helicopter tours). We accept bank transfer, credit card (4% surcharge), PayPal. Free cancellation up to 60 days before departure. We strongly recommend travel insurance covering trip cancellation. Contact us for current pricing and availability.

What is Not Included

International airfare to/from Kathmandu, Nepal visa fee (USD 30 for 15 days), travel and rescue insurance (mandatory), personal trekking gear and clothing, hot showers and device charging on trek, alcoholic beverages, lunch and dinner in Kathmandu, tips for guide/porter/driver (recommended 10-15% of trip cost), and any costs from unforeseen events like weather delays.