Tilicho Mesokanta La Pass Trek - 15 Days

Tilicho Lake
Trip Facts
  • Trip Duration15 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Maximum Altitude 5467m
  • Activity Trekking
  • Starts/Ends Kathmandu / Kathmandu
  • Best Season February to May & September to Mid- December
Highlights
  • Visit Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world at 4,919 meters, with its crystal-clear blue waters and stunning mountain backdrop.
  • Cross the challenging Mesokanta La Pass (5,467 meters) and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
  • Experience the peaceful beauty of a less crowded route compared to other popular treks in the Annapurna region.
  • Spend acclimatization days in Manang, a beautiful Himalayan village with incredible mountain views and cultural charm.
  • Stay in cozy, family-run tea houses along the trail and enjoy delicious homemade Nepali meals.
  • Walk through traditional villages and interact with the friendly local people, experiencing their warm hospitality and simple mountain lifestyle.

Tilicho Mesokanta La Pass Trek Overview

The Tilicho Mesokanta La Pass Trek is an amazing way to explore the stunning Annapurna region of Nepal. This trek offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, challenging mountain passes, and rich local culture. You will walk through peaceful villages, dense forests, and high alpine landscapes, all while soaking in incredible views of snow-capped peaks.

The trek starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, followed by a drive to Besisahar, where your hiking adventure officially begins. From there, you will follow the Marshyangdi River valley, passing charming villages like Dharapani, Chame, and Manang. Along the way, you will see fields, lush forests, and traditional mountain homes.

A highlight of the trek is Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world, sitting at 4,919 meters (16,138 feet). Before reaching the lake, you will spend time acclimatizing in Manang to help your body adjust to the high altitude. The next big challenge is crossing the Mesokanta La Pass at 5,467 meters (17,936 feet), where breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges await you.

After crossing the pass, the trail leads down to the Mustang region, ending in Jomsom. From here, you will enjoy a scenic flight to Pokhara and then a drive back to Kathmandu. This trek is perfect for those who love a physical challenge and want to experience some of Nepal’s most beautiful and less-traveled mountain trails.

Throughout the journey, you will not only experience stunning natural beauty but also meet friendly locals and learn about the unique cultures of the Himalayas. Our team will be with you every step of the way, making sure your trek is safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable.

What is the Tilicho Mesokanta La Pass Trek?

The Tilicho Mesokanta La Pass Trek is a challenging and less crowded route in the Annapurna region. It takes you through peaceful valleys, small traditional villages, and diverse landscapes, from green forests and farmlands to high rocky mountains. The trail leads to Tilicho Lake, one of the world’s highest lakes at 4,919 meters, before crossing the Mesokanta La Pass at 5,467 meters.

What makes this trek special is its quiet, off-the-beaten-path feel. You will often find yourself alone in nature, away from the busier trekking routes. The warm hospitality of the local villagers adds a personal touch to the journey. While the trek is physically demanding and requires proper acclimatization, the stunning mountain views and the pure beauty of the surroundings make every step worth it.

What are the major highlights of the Tilicho Mesokanta La Pass Trek

The Tilicho Mesokanta La Pass Trek offers a mix of raw adventure, beautiful nature, and peaceful mountain life. Here are some of the major highlights you can expect:

1) Visit Tilicho Lake at 4,919 Meters

Standing beside Tilicho Lake at 4,919 meters feels magical. The bright blue water, surrounded by big snowy mountains like Tilicho Peak and Gangapurna, is a sight you won’t forget. The lake is also important for both Hindus and Buddhists, which makes being there feel even more special. It is quiet and peaceful, far away from busy life.

2) Cross the Remote Mesokanta La Pass (5,467 Meters)

Crossing Mesokanta La Pass at 5,467 meters is a big achievement. The climb is hard because of the thin air and steep path, but when you reach the top, the views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains are amazing. You can even see far into Mustang. This part feels like a true adventure since very few people take this route.

3) Experience Amazing Annapurna Region Landscapes

You will see many different views as you walk. The trail takes you through green forests with rhododendron and pine trees, farmlands where people grow barley and potatoes, open meadows where yaks graze, and high rocky mountains. Every day looks a little different, which keeps the trek interesting.

4) Visit Gurung, Manangi, and Thakali Villages

You will walk through small villages where people live simple lives. Most of the locals are from Gurung, Manangi, and Thakali communities. In villages like Manang and Khangsar, you will see stone houses, prayer wheels, and monasteries. The people are friendly and often offer tea, food, and warm smiles, making you feel welcome.

5) Spot Himalayan Wildlife and Nature

You might see animals like blue sheep, mountain goats, and Himalayan birds such as the colorful Danphe, Nepal’s national bird. In spring, many wildflowers bloom along the trail. If you are very lucky, you might even see a snow leopard from far away. The peaceful nature makes the trek feel wild and untouched.

6) Enjoy Peaceful and Less Crowded Trails

Unlike many popular treks, this route is quiet and peaceful. You can walk for hours enjoying nature without seeing many other trekkers, giving you a true sense of being in the wild.

7) Challenge Yourself on a True Himalayan Adventure

This trek is not easy. The high altitude, steep climbs, and long walking days will test your strength. Crossing Mesokanta La Pass is the hardest part, but reaching the top gives you a strong feeling of happiness and pride for completing such a big adventure.

Quick Note: We also offer a similar adventure trek that is a bit more popular in the Annapurna region. If you’re interested, feel free to check out our "Annapurna Circuit Trek via Thorong La Pass - 15 Days" package.

How difficult is the Tilicho Mesokanta La Pass Trek?

The Tilicho Mesokanta La Pass Trek is a moderate to challenging trek. It may not be the best choice for someone who has never trekked before, but if you have a decent level of fitness and are ready for some hard work, it is very achievable. The experience you gain from this trek makes every step completely worth it.

One of the biggest challenges is the high altitude, especially while crossing the Mesokanta La Pass, which sits at over 5,400 meters. As you go higher, the air becomes thinner, and you may feel short of breath or more tired than usual. This is why taking enough time to rest and allow your body to adjust to the altitude is very important throughout the journey.

There will be days when you walk for long hours on steep paths that truly test your stamina. The weather can change quickly. You might start your morning in warm sunshine and end your day walking under cold winds or even light snowfall.

Since the trail goes through remote areas, there are fewer facilities along the way, so you need to be well-prepared and rely on your guide, your team, and your equipment.

ItineraryDay to Day Itinerary
Expand AllCollapse All

  • Meals:Dinner
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Max Altitude:1310m
  • Duration:45 Minutes Drive

Upon your arrival team from Moon Himalaya Adventure will be at Tribhuvan International Airport to receive you and will transfer you to Hotel. In the Evening you will have a briefing about your Tilicho Mesokanta La pass trek with your guide.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Max Altitude:1310m
  • Duration:6/7 hrs

On the second day after having your breakfast, our guide will explain to you about the Tilicho Mesokanta La pass trek and the gear you need. In case you miss out on any gear you can buy or rent it. If you want then you can visit around the world heritage sites (Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bouddhanath, Pashupatinath, Swoyambhunath) but you have to pay entry fees on your own.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:1860m
  • Duration:8/9 hrs drive

The journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar and continues till we reach Dharapani.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:2670m
  • Duration:5/6 hrs

The first day of the trek begins from Dharapani with an average walk of 5 to 6 hrs. On the way, you'll see plenty of pine and fir trees, a number of monasteries, and several authentic Tibetan settlements. Views of Annapurna II, Manaslu, and other mountains can also be seen on our way to Chame. Chame is the headquarter of Manang district.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:3200m
  • Duration:5/6 hrs

Today we'll continue on to Pisang through Bratang (2850m) and Dhiku Pokhari (3240m). We'll be making our way down a narrow and steep slope before dropping down to the quaint village of Pisang for the night.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:3660m
  • Duration:5/6 hrs

In the morning, get up early to catch the sun rising over Annapurna II. Then after breakfast, we will resume our journey to Ngawal. After reaching Humde (3300m) we will gradually climb for about 40 minutes. The path to Ngawal offers spectacular views of Annapurna II and III, as well as Pisang Peak. We'll stay at Ngawal for the night.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:3540m
  • Duration:4/5 hrs

Following the banks of the Marsyangdi River, we will make our way to Manang. Ahead, you'll see the Tilicho Peak and Annapurna ranges while passing through forests and villages like Braga and Paugh. Upon arriving in Mungli, we will once again be following the regular Annapurna hiking routes. We continue our hike till we reach Manang, our final destination for the day.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:3540m
  • Duration:3/4 hrs

We will stay at Manang to acclimatize the high altitude. We'll spend the day exploring Manang. We'll start the day with a hike up to Gangapurna Lake/Ice Lake. We can enjoy the breathtaking views of Annapurna III, Tilicho, Pisang, and Chulu Peaks. Visiting the nearby Manang village is yet another choice.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:4150m
  • Duration:5 / 6 hours

We will follow the trail through the coniferous trees. After a three-hour of walk we will reach Khangsar, a Tibetan Village. Have fun on the hike by keeping a steady pace and taking in the view of the valley from above. To go to Tilicho Base Camp, you'll cross the ridge above Kangsar Khola.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tent
  • Max Altitude:4920m
  • Duration:4/5 hours

Today we will head to Tilicho lake located at an altitude of 4920m. The trail is slope so we should be careful with our step. The Tilicho lake offers a stunning view of snow-capped mountains that surrounds the lake. Our staff will set a tent at a distance of one hour from Tilicho lake where we will stay for a night.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Tent
  • Max Altitude:5467m
  • Duration:7 /8 hours

We will make an early start. This day will be the most notable day of the trek as we will pass through Measokanto La located at an altitude of 5469 m on our way to Kaisang. The view from the pass is just mesmerizing. We will walk through rough terrain and glacier.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Lodge
  • Max Altitude:2720m
  • Duration:5/6 hrs

The trail today is mostly downhill. On our way to Jomsom, we'll pass through Kagbeni and along the banks of the Kali Gandaki River. Throughout the hike, we will be treated with a breathtaking panorama of Mount Dhaulagiri and Mount Nilgiri.

  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Max Altitude:822m
  • Duration:20 minutes

We will take an early morning flight to Pokhara after having breakfast. Our flight will pass through two of the world's tallest mountains Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Upon arriving at Pokhara we will be transferred to the hotel nearby lakeside. We take our time walking near Fewa Lake, Nepal's second-largest lake, taking in the scenery of Machhapuchhare in the distance. Evening walk nearby the lakeside in one of the famous activities in Pokhara. We can also boat in Fewa Lake.

  • Meals:Breakfast & Lunch
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Max Altitude:1310m
  • Duration:6/7 hrs

We will leave Pokhara in a private vehicle after taking breakfast. It will take around 7 hours to reach Kathmandu.

  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Max Altitude:1310m
  • Duration:45 Minutes Drive

Representative from Moon Himalaya Adventure will drop you to the international airport for final departure three hours prior to your flight schedule.

Cost DetailsWhat's Included
  • Airport pick up and drop in private vehicle.
  • Three-night hotel in Kathmandu.
  • one night hotel in Pokhara.
  • Ground transportation from Kathmandu to Besisahar to Dharapani.
  •  Ground transportation Pokhara to Kathmandu.
  • Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara for client.
  • Three meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trekking.
  • Accommodation during the trekking.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit.
  • Trekkers’ Information Management system (TIMS) card.
  • Ground transportation from Kathmandu to Besisahar to Dharapani and from Pokhara to Kathmandu for guide and porter.
  • Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara for guide.
  • English speaking government license holder Trekking guide.
    (For 1 to 4 clients there will be 1 guide and above 5 clients we provide assistant guide)
  • For 2 clients there will be 1 Porter.
    (The baggage of 1 client should be 10 to 12 kg only)
  • Food, accommodation, salary and Trekking insurance for Guide and Porter.
  • First aid kit.
  • All necessary government taxes.
  • Certificate of accomplishment of trek.
  • Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service which will be paid by client Travel insurance company.
What's Excluded
  • Nepal entry visa fee (you may easily issue the visa upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport – Kathmandu). You will require 2 passport size photos.
  • Your Travel insurance (compulsory).
  • Food (lunch and dinner) while you are in Kathmandu.
  • Hotel in Kathmandu that goes beyond the scheduled program.
  • Your personal expenses and entrance fees while you do the tour in Kathmandu.
  • Entry fees in Monastries, temples, Museum.
  • Your personal expenses, shopping, donation to monasteries and school, wifi, laundry etc
  • All the alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
  • Sweet things like chocolate bars and bakery items.
  • Internet, Hot shower and battery charge during the trek.
  • International airfare and airport departure tax.
  • Tips for guide, porter and staffs.
  • Things that go beyond "cost includes" list.
  • Any Additional cost due to Nature calamity and Unforeseen Circumstances etc.
Useful InformationGood to Know

Best Time to Do the Tilicho Mesokanta La Pass Trek

The best time to do the Tilicho Mesokanta La Pass Trek is during spring, from March to May, and autumn, from late September to November. These seasons give you the best weather, clear skies, and beautiful views that make the trek even more special.

In spring, the trails feel alive as rhododendron forests bloom in bright colors, adding a beautiful contrast to the snow-covered mountains in the distance. The days are pleasantly warm for walking, and the views of the mountains often remain clear for most of the day. Walking through colorful forests while breathing in the fresh mountain air feels peaceful and refreshing.

Autumn is also a favorite time for many trekkers. After the monsoon season, the air becomes crisp and clear, giving some of the best views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The temperatures are mild during the day, making trekking comfortable, while the evenings bring cool, fresh mountain air. Many trekkers say this season offers the clearest and most breathtaking views.

During summer, heavy monsoon rains can make the trails muddy, slippery, and more challenging. The rain clouds often hide the mountain views, which is a big part of the trekking experience. Winter, on the other hand, brings harsh cold and heavy snowfall, especially around the Mesokanta La Pass, which can sometimes block the trail entirely and make crossing dangerous.

Necessary Permits for the Tilicho Mesokanta La Pass Trek

To do the Tilicho Mesokanta La Pass Trek, you will need two main permits:

  • TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System): This card is required for all trekkers in Nepal and helps authorities keep track of who is on the trails for safety reasons. You can get it from the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Be sure to bring a passport-sized photo and a copy of your passport.
  • ACAP Permit (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit): Since the trek passes through the Annapurna Conservation Area, this permit is necessary to protect the region’s natural environment and cultural heritage. It is available at the same offices where you get your TIMS card.

Both permits are checked at several checkpoints along the trek, so keep them handy in your backpack. If you are trekking with a guide or through a trekking company, they will usually handle all the permit paperwork for you.

Accommodation and Meals Options on the Tilicho Mesokanta La Pass Trek

During the Tilicho Mesokanta La Pass Trek, you will stay in a variety of simple but cozy places along the trail. Most of the accommodations are local tea houses or guesthouses run by welcoming mountain families. Staying in these places not only gives you a place to rest but also lets you experience the local culture up close.

The tea houses usually offer a small, clean room with basic furniture and shared bathrooms. In some places, you may get a hot shower, but in higher and more remote areas, it might not always be available. On colder days, you may have to settle for a quick cold wash, which becomes part of the adventure.

Meals are usually homemade and filling. You will often find dal bhat (rice with lentils), soups, noodles, momos, and other warm dishes that give you the energy needed for trekking. Eating hot, fresh food after a long day of walking feels especially comforting in the chilly mountain air.

In bigger villages like Manang and Jomsom, you will find slightly better facilities. Many lodges there offer Wi-Fi, charging points, and sometimes even private rooms, which feel like small luxuries after days of trekking. However, as you move closer to Tilicho Lake and Mesokanta La Pass, the lodges become more basic and peaceful, surrounded by beautiful mountain silence.

Since this trek sees fewer visitors compared to more popular routes, the tea houses are often quiet and more personal. You may find yourself chatting with locals or sharing stories with fellow trekkers around a warm stove in the evening, which adds a special charm to the journey.

At Moon Himalaya Adventure, we make sure to select clean, comfortable, and friendly tea houses, so you can enjoy a good rest after each day on the trail.

Guide and Porter Requirement for the Tilicho Mesokanta La Pass Trek

For the Tilicho Mesokanta La Pass Trek, having a guide is mandatory according to the rule introduced by the Nepalese government. While this rule is not always strictly enforced, trekking without a guide can be risky, especially when crossing the Mesokanta La Pass, where weather conditions and trail navigation can quickly become challenging.

When you join the trek with us, we provide an experienced, government-licensed guide who knows the route very well. Our guides are trained in altitude awareness, safety, and first aid. They help you adjust to the altitude, monitor your health, and ensure your safety throughout the journey. At the same time, they share valuable information about the culture, mountains, and local communities you pass through, making your trek more meaningful and enjoyable.

We also highly recommend hiring a porter for this trek. The route involves long walking days and steep ascents, especially when approaching Tilicho Lake and crossing the Mesokanta La Pass. A porter will carry your main backpack, allowing you to walk more comfortably and fully enjoy the trek. One porter can carry up to 20 to 22 kilograms of luggage, which is usually shared between two trekkers.

📌Cost for Porter: USD $20 to $25 per day (one porter can carry 20 kg for two people).

Although a guide is mandatory, hiring a porter will not only make your trek safer and more comfortable but also help support the local economy by providing jobs to trained professionals.

FAQsTilicho Mesokanta La Pass Trek - 15 Days FAQs

  • The Tilicho Mesokanta La pass trek is considered a challenging trek that requires good fitness and acclimatization to high altitudes. The trek involves trekking through remote mountainous terrain, crossing high-altitude passes, and reaching an altitude of 4,919 meters (16,138 feet) at Tilicho Lake.

  • Trekking to Tilicho Lake is generally safe, but it is important to follow safety guidelines and precautions. Altitude sickness is a concern, and trekkers should acclimatize properly, drink plenty of water, and trek slowly to minimize the risk of altitude sickness.

  • Tilicho Mesokanta La pass trek requires Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS) card.

  • The best time to undertake the Tilicho Mesokanta La pass trek is from March to May and from September to November, which is the peak trekking season in Nepal. During this time, the weather is generally clear and stable, and the views are spectacular.

  • Accommodation on the Tilicho Mesokanta La pass trek is generally basic, with options ranging from teahouses to camping. Teahouses are available in most villages along the trekking route, while camping is required in more remote areas.

ReviewsWhat Our Clients Says?
Write a Review

Be the first to review, click post review.

Customize Trip
Similar Trips
You May Also Like
See all packages

Ask a Question

Call us, we're at your service

Mobile:+977 9860455963 or WhatsApp Talk Phone

Our travel experts would love to create a package just for you.

Planning a Trip