Myagdi, September 23
A new trekking route to Tilicho Lake, the world’s highest lake at an elevation of 4,919 meters in the Manang district, has recently opened, offering an alternative path for adventurers.
The new trail starts from Thini in Gharapjhong Rural Municipality-5, Jomsom, in Mustang district. Previously, trekkers accessed Tilicho Lake from Chame in Manang, passing through Khangsar.
According to Mohan Singh Lalchan, Chairperson of Gharapjhong Rural Municipality, domestic tourists have already begun using the new route, trekking from Jomsom via Thini, Namakhu Lake, Nilgiri Icefall, Chema Tal, and Mesokondo Pass.
The development of the new trekking trail was a joint effort between Gharapjhong Rural Municipality and the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP). The rural municipality allocated Rs 5 million for the project, while ACAP contributed an additional Rs 1 million.
Chairperson Lalchan mentioned that the new route allows tourists to reach Tilicho Lake and return within two days. The lake is approximately a two-hour drive from Jomsom and a six-hour trek on the newly established trail.
However, trekkers are advised to be self-sufficient, as there are no hotels or restaurants along the route, requiring them to arrange their own meals and accommodation.
Tula Buda Magar, a hiker from Myagdi district who recently used the new trail, described the journey: “It took me an hour on foot from Mesokondo Pass to reach the lake. The fatigue from the challenging uphill trek was well worth it, as the view of the blue, crystal-clear reservoir was breathtaking.”
Pramod Raj Regmi of ACAP, Jomsom, added that the new trekking trail has been equipped with informative signboards to guide travellers.
