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The Tilicho Lake with Mesokanto Pass Trek, offered by Hairy Yak Adventures, is a thrilling 16-day adventure in Nepal’s Annapurna region, designed for experienced trekkers seeking an off-the-beaten-path challenge. Priced at $1250 per person, this trek combines the serene beauty of Tilicho Lake (4,919 m), one of the world’s highest lakes, with the exhilarating crossing of Mesokanto La Pass (5,099 m), offering unparalleled views of Himalayan giants like Annapurna I-IV, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Tilicho Peak. This journey is an alternative to the popular Thorong La Pass route on the Annapurna Circuit, providing a more remote and adventurous experience through the rugged landscapes of Manang and Mustang districts.
The trek showcases a diverse tapestry of landscapes, from lush forests and terraced fields to barren high-altitude deserts and glacial moraines. Trekkers will traverse the Marshyangdi and Kali Gandaki river valleys, passing through traditional villages like Manang, Khangsar, and Jomsom, where Tibetan-influenced cultures thrive. The trail offers opportunities to spot wildlife such as blue sheep, Himalayan tahr, and even the elusive snow leopard, alongside vibrant flora like rhododendrons and alpine wildflowers. The highlight, Tilicho Lake, is a turquoise gem nestled amidst snow-capped peaks, revered for its natural beauty and Hindu spiritual significance.
This trek is considered strenuous due to its high-altitude passes (including Tilicho Pass at 5,230 m and Mesokanto La at 5,099 m) and requires prior trekking experience, strong physical fitness, and proper acclimatization to mitigate altitude sickness risks. The route involves camping for a few nights after Tilicho Base Camp, as teahouse facilities are limited beyond this point. Hairy Yak Adventures ensures a safe and rewarding journey with experienced guides, porters, and comprehensive logistics, making this trek ideal for adventure enthusiasts craving solitude and breathtaking Himalayan scenery.
The Tilicho Lake with Mesokanto Pass Trek starts at $1250 per person for a 16-day package, offering excellent value for an adventurous Himalayan experience. The cost typically includes:
Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP, $30) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card ($10 for group trekkers, $20 for solo).
Accommodation: 2–3-star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara (BB plan), teahouses/lodges during the trek, and tented camps for 2–3 nights after Tilicho Base Camp.
Meals: Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during trekking days, featuring Nepalese, Tibetan, and continental cuisines, plus welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu.
Transportation: Round-trip transport from Kathmandu to Besisahar by bus/microbus, Jomsom to Pokhara by flight, and Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus.
Guide and Porter: Licensed trekking guide ($25–$35/day) and porter ($15–$20/day, 1 porter per 2 trekkers, max 30 kg), including their meals, accommodation, and insurance.
Trekking Gear: Sleeping bags, down jackets, duffel bags, and camping equipment (tents, cooking gear) for high-altitude sections.
Support: Airport transfers, trek briefing, and a medical kit for emergencies.
Additional costs to consider include personal expenses (snacks, hot showers, battery charging: $20–$50/day), travel insurance (covering up to 5,500 m altitude), Nepal entry visa ($40 for 30 days), and tips for guides/porters (10% of trek cost recommended). Prices may vary based on group size, season, or customized services, with private trips or luxury options ranging up to $1450. Contact Hairy Yak Adventures for group discounts or tailored itineraries.
The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), offering stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures (5–20°C). Autumn provides the best mountain views, while spring features blooming wildflowers. Avoid winter (December–February) due to heavy snow and monsoon (June–August) due to landslides.
The trek is strenuous, involving high-altitude passes (up to 5,099 m) with steep, rocky, and sometimes icy terrain requiring ropes and crampons. Prior high-altitude trekking experience and strong fitness are essential. Proper acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness.
You need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP, $30) and the TIMS card ($10 for group trekkers, $20 for solo). Hairy Yak Adventures arranges these permits, requiring two passport-sized photos. Permits are checked at Besisahar and other checkpoints.
Teahouses/lodges with basic facilities (twin rooms, shared bathrooms) are available from Chame to Tilicho Base Camp. Tented camps with mattresses and cooking gear are used for 2–3 nights at Mesokanto High Camp and Nama Phu. Hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara are 2–3-star.
Ensure it includes medical coverage for altitude-related issues. Hairy Yak Adventures provides a medical kit but recommends personal insurance for safety.