Mesokanto La Pass Trek | Tilicho Pass Trek 9 Days

Tilicho Lake Nepal
At a Glance
  • Duration13 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Max Altitude 5100m
  • Group Size 2 - 10 People
  • Start City Kathmandu
  • End City Kathmandu
  • Trip Type Private
  • Activity Trekking and Hiking
  • Best Season August - November and April - June
Trip Highlights
  • Ancient Annapurna Circuit Trekking Trail.
  • Manang Village.
  • Two nights camping trek experience in the high Himalayas.
  • Sunrise and Sunset from Upper Pisang.
  • Panoramic view of Annapurna Himalayan range.
  • World's highest glacier Lake Tilico Lake.
  • Jaw-dropping view from Mesokanto Pass 5100.
  • Jomsom and flight to Pokhara.

Annapurna region of Nepal has been consistent in providing one of the world’s best trekking experiences. Plus, a variety of trek choices opening up from the Annapurna make it an extraordinary passage. It’s hardly a surprise that Mesokanto La Trek is one of the most exciting and challenging trekking routes around. Given that it lies in the Annapurna region, the thrill of the adventure is almost guaranteed.

The 17-day Mesokanto La trek package leads you to a pass 2000 meters above the Tilicho Lake (4919m). Tilicho, the highest lake in the world, is a remote and unspoiled trekking destination of Nepal. Much so because it stands aloof far from the madding crowd, its silence can thus be quite intimidating. The trail passes between the gorgeous rock-laden mountains, and amidst the magnificent views of northern Manang. 

The Mesokanto La pass (5100m) is at a demanding attitude. It goes without saying that only when you are at a supreme physical and mental state will this journey will be rewarding. Blow the whistle when you’re up and running. The mountains invite you to embark on this daring voyage. Watch how the turquoise Tilicho and a rich Manang panorama drop calmly on your feet. Savor this rare tranquility.

Mesokanto La trek is a window to the ever-so-splendid views of Mount Manaslu (8163m), Dhaulagiri (8167m and Annapurna (8091m) ranges. The trek kicks off the day after you arrive in Kathmandu, driving past the traditional villages of Chamje and then Dharapani. As the sub-tropical forests accompany you in a leisurely walk, you’ll reach Chame in no time. 

The lifestyle of the people of Manang slowly begins to unfold as prayer flags become your next guide. No sooner you will find yourself adjoining the famous Annapurna Circuit trek, except that is not where our destination lies. Throughout the Mesokanto La Trek, you’ll get to fully explore Manang and the things it has to offer- ancient hymns, traditions, food, and artifacts. Slowly, the backdrop of the snowy legends Gangapurna and Annapurna begins to unravel. Oh, this is a time to be alive. 

About a day later, you will finally get to Tilicho, where the sky meets the earth. Truly, the sight of the lake beneath the mountains is a soothing relief to the tired eyes. After leaving the picturesque Tilicho behind, you will continue to follow the trail up to Mesokanto La pass. On your way down, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the city of Jomsom. Of course, no trek ends with a day-night life spent in good old Pokhara, Nepal’s scenic dynamite. This Mesokanto La Trek itinerary has it all in the store.

Best time for Mesokanto La Trek

At that altitude, the weather and climate are no longer anyone’s true friend. Instead, the best thing you can do is choose the right time. Wondering what the best time to travel for the Mesokanto La trek is? We have the answer. 

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-December) are two seasons you should look forward to for setting out on this trek. These months are, in most cases, safe from wind, snow, and any other obscenities. Plan your trek based on the necessity of this season, and you’ll surely make the best out of your vacation. 

Mesokanto La Trek Difficulty

Despite plenty of steep screeds and slippery trails, Mesokanto La Trek is a “moderately difficult” trek. The tour may very well ask questions about your grit and perseverance. We are sure you will have the proper answer. Carry a trekking pole with you by all means, as they will be a great aid. 

Use subtle equipment whenever suitable but do ensure that you are lightweight at all times. Your sound ability to make quick, measured movements can make the trek that much more fulfilling. 

Here we have carefully designed a 17-day Mesokanto La Trek itinerary. Let us know if you like it.

Itinerary

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We begin our adventure with a scenic drive from Kathmandu towards Chame, the administrative center of the Manang District. The drive is long but offers mesmerizing views of rivers, terraced fields, waterfalls, and the distant Himalayan peaks. As we move higher, the road winds through lush forests and rocky ridges alongside the Marsyangdi River. Chame welcomes us with chilly air and beautiful views of Lamjung Himal.

  • Max Altitude: 2670m
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Time: 90/10 hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Transport: Bus / Jeep

On the second day, we head north through the deep valley of Manang. The trail leads us past apple orchards and pine forests before revealing Paungda Danda, a massive, sacred rock wall worshipped by locals. After soaking in the views, we gradually ascend to the picturesque village of Upper Pisang, with stunning views of Annapurna II and IV along the way.

  • Max Altitude: 3300m
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Time: 5 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 12km

Today’s trail offers panoramic views of the Annapurna range as we trek through pine forests and high-altitude farmlands. Passing through traditional villages like Ghyaru and Ngawal, we see prayer flags fluttering in the wind and ancient mani walls. The air gets thinner as we approach Manang, a key acclimatization stop surrounded by snowcapped giants.

  • Max Altitude: 3540m
  • Accommodation: Guest House
  • Time: 6 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 15km

Today is a well-deserved rest and acclimatization day in Manang. We explore the local lifestyle and take short hikes to places like Gangapurna Lake or the viewpoint above the village. Optional hikes to Bhojo Gompa or the Chongkor Viewpoint help in proper acclimatization and reward us with expansive views of the Annapurna massif.

  • Max Altitude: 3,540m
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Meals: BLD

The trail today is rugged and thrilling as we head toward Tilicho Base Camp. Leaving the main Annapurna Circuit, we venture into a more remote part of the region. The path cuts through landslide-prone slopes and narrow cliffs. With caution and steady steps, we arrive at the base camp, nestled below towering rock faces.

  • Max Altitude: 4,150m
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Time: 6 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 13km

We start early to hike up to Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world. The morning hike offers breathtaking views as we climb to the turquoise alpine lake surrounded by snow and rock. After spending some peaceful time at the lake, we continue toward our campsite beyond the lake, setting up tents for the night.

  • Max Altitude: 4,920m
  • Accommodation: Tented Camp
  • Time: 4 Hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 12km

This is one of the most adventurous and challenging days of the trek. We cross Mesokanto La Pass (5,300m), a high mountain pass offering 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks. The climb is steep and strenuous, but the reward is unmatched. After the pass, we descend to Yak Kharka, where we set up our tented camp for a much-needed rest.

  • Max Altitude: 5,300m
  • Accommodation: Tented Camp
  • Time: 7/9
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 14km

After days in remote wilderness, we descend towards Jomsom, a bustling town in Mustang. The trail leads us through alpine meadows, barren hills, and into the Kali Gandaki valley. Once in Jomsom, we can enjoy modern comforts and reflect on the incredible journey.

  • Max Altitude: 2720m
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Time: 5 hours
  • Meals: BLD
  • Walking Distance: 12km

Depending on the weather, we either take a short scenic flight or a long but scenic drive back to Pokhara. The flight offers aerial views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges, while the drive winds through the Kali Gandaki gorge, one of the world’s deepest canyons.

  • Max Altitude: 820m
  • Meals: Breakfast

The 9-day Mesokanto La Pass Trek Itinerary is a thrilling journey for adventure lovers, offering breathtaking views of Tilicho Lake and a challenging high-altitude pass. Perfect for those seeking a remote and rewarding Himalayan experience. If this itinerary feels short or rushed, you can fully customize it to suit your preferences, fitness level, and schedule. Design your own unforgettable Tilicho Lake and Mesokanto La Pass adventure with Breeze Adventure for a truly personalized trekking experience.

Cost Details
What's Included
  • Transportation to and from Tribhuvan Airport.
  • Two nights in a 2/3-star hotel in Kathmandu and one night in Pokhara. On the BB Plan.
  • flight from Jomsom to Pokhara
  • All transportation for the trek.
  • Local guest house accommodation in the mountains.
  • Camping equipment for two nights.
  • (TIMS )Trekkers’ Information Management System fees
  • Government-authorized experienced guides and porters
  • Insurance, food, and accommodation  for guides and porters
  • Hygienic meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
  • First Aid Kit
  • Maps
  • Service charge and government taxes
  • Post-trek celebration dinner in Kathmandu
What's Not Included
  • International airfare
  • Meals in Kathmandu (besides breakfast)
  • Your personal expenses, shopping, etc.
  • Your personal insurance.
  • Shower and electronic charging fees at guest houses during the trek
  • Alcoholic drinks, chocolates, tea and coffee
  • Tips for guide and porter.
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