New Trekking Route to Tilicho Lake Opens from Jomsom

A new trekking route to Tilicho Lake, situated at an elevation of 4,919 meters in Manang district, has recently come into operation, offering a new path for trekkers to explore the world’s highest-altitude lake.

The trail starts in Jomsom, Mustang district, and passes through Thini in Gharapjhong Rural Municipality, taking trekkers via Namakhu Lake, Nilgiri Icefall, Chema Tal, and Masokondo Pass before reaching Tilicho Lake. This route differs from the previous trail that started from Chame in Manang and passed through Khangsar.

According to Gharapjhong Rural Municipality Chairperson Mohan Singh Lalchan, domestic tourists have already begun utilizing the new route. The trail was developed with support from the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), with the local government contributing Rs 5 million and ACAP adding Rs 1 million for its construction.

Chairperson Lalchan highlighted that trekkers can reach the lake and return within two days via the new route. From Jomsom, the lake is two hours by vehicle and six hours on foot. However, the route lacks hotels and restaurants, so trekkers must make their own arrangements for meals and accommodation.

Tula Buda Magar from Myagdi district, who recently completed the hike, shared that although the uphill trek was challenging, the stunning panoramic view of the blue crystal-clear lake made the effort worthwhile.

Pramod Raj Regmi from ACAP in Jomsom added that the new trail includes informative signboards to guide trekkers along the path.