Tilicho Lake is considered one of the Cleanest lakes in Nepal which is situated at a high altitude of 4919 meters in the Annapurna range. it is at 4949 meters above sea level. It is located in the Manang district and takes 55 55-kilometer straight route from Pokhara city.
The beauty of Tilicho Lake has been pulling the people to its shore for a couple of years. Many of the visitors and trekkers used to visit Tilicho Lake to seek the beauty of the natural lake. Travelers used to do Annapurna Circuit Trek to extend their trip to get this glacial lake for the best natural view of the Tilicho Lake which attracts the people by the reflection of the mountains on the blue water of the lake and for the crowd-free peaceful environment in Annapurna trekking.
Facts of Tilicho Lake
Tilicho Lake is clarified as the ancient Kak Bhusunda Lake which has also been mentioned in the Ramayana. In Ramayana, it is demonstrated that the first happening of Ramayana was told by the crow to kings of birds Garuda by this lake. The lake is named after the crow as Kak Bhusunda in the Ramayana.
Tilicho Lake is huge surrounded by the mountain known as Khangsar Khang but also known as Rock Noir which means black rock, muktinath peak, Nilgiri, and Tilicho Peak. To the south from khangsar kang lead to Annapurna I, the highest mountain in the Annapurna range. To the east side, it offers the views of Manaslu and the massif of Ngada Chullu. The lake is the source of the Kangsar River which then connects with Marsyandi and Manang is the river by the side of which the Tilicho Lake trekking trial is carved.
Tilicho Lake Trek
Tilicho Lake Trek is an attractive trekking destination for travelers. The trek to Tilicho Lake is the best which offers an incredible view of the breathtaking Himalayas, beautiful lush green hills, beautiful fields with grass with wildflowers, and the traditional villages of the Buddhist community.
Annapurna Circuit Trek via Tilicho Lake
Annapurna Circuit Trek via Tilicho Lake is one of the most preferred destinations for moderate trekkers. Tourists, who enjoy experiencing the mountains, walking on the sloppy lands, and feeling the pleasant climate, choose this region as their ultimate trekking destination.
This trek is attached to the Annapurna circuit route which is one of the most popular trekking routes starting through the Marsayandi River and leading to the villages of Tal, dharani, chame, pisang, manang, hangar, and finally to Tilicho Lake.
People and Culture of Tilicho Region
Tilicho Lake carries great religious and cultural significance, revered by local Hindu and Buddhist populations with ancient legends associated with the sacred site. Local legends speak of the sacred lake being the residing place of deities and supernatural beings.
During auspicious festivals like Lhosar and Yarthung, the Bhotia make ceremonial offerings and perform rituals at the lake’s shores to seek blessings. beautifully decorated monasteries and strings of vibrantly colored prayer flags can be found in villages near the access trails, symbolizing the deep Buddhist influences.
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Bhotia culture like warm hospitality, unique cuisine, vibrant cultural dress, and artisan handicrafts can be experienced by visitors. puzzling carvings and symbols decorate monastery walls and Tokyo (main walls). The very name “Tilicho” originates from the Bhotia language related to Tibetan.
Flora and fauna found around Tilicho
At the high altitude of nearly 5,000 meters, the vegetation is sparse around the glacial lake basin. Hardy alpine plants and shrubs like rhododendrons, juniper, and mountain grasses can be found clinging to slopes. Tiny alpine flowers bloom during the short summer season when conditions allow. Closer to Manang, the lower elevation allows pine, fir, and birch forests to grow.
The Tilicho region provides a habitat for several high-altitude-adapted Himalayan animal species. The Himalayan tahr (mountain goat) and blue sheep can occasionally be spotted on the surrounding slopes. The area is home to smaller mammals like pika, musk deer, and Royle’s mountain vole. Bird species found here include the colorful Robin accentor, Tibetan snowcock, and golden eagle. Snow leopards, though very rarely seen, may pass through the area as their territory extends into this region.
Best season to visit Tilicho Lake
The prime trekking seasons of spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer the most ideal conditions for visiting Tilicho Lake. During these shoulder seasons, trekkers can expect crisp, clear days with sunny skies and excellent visibility to fully appreciate the incredible mountain scenery surrounding the lake. The spring months see the added benefit of witnessing colorful rhododendron blooms.
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In autumn, the crowds on the Annapurna Circuit tend to be thinner, while the air is cool and fresh after the summer monsoons have passed. Temperatures rest in a comfortable range, neither most hot nor bitterly cold at the extremely high altitude. Early autumn also brings opportunities to view migratory birds arriving in the region, including the vibrant Tibetan snowcock.
