Destination
Nepal
Region
Annapurna
Trip Grade
Moderate/High Pass
Highest Elevation
5416m.
Meal
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation
Tea-House / Lodge Basis
Trek Duration
18 Days
Group Size Min
02 Trekker's
Best Time
Best Time Sept-December & February-May
Start/End Point
Jagato to Pokhara

Trip Overview

Annapurna Tilicho Lake Trek: A Journey to the Top of the World

The Annapurna Tilicho Lake Trek is a journey that takes you to the top of the world, quite literally. This trek is not for the faint-hearted, as it involves a challenging climb to an altitude of over 4,919 meters. But for those who are up for the challenge, the rewards are nothing short of breathtaking. The trek takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, from lush green forests to rocky mountainsides, and culminates in a visit to Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world.

The journey is not just about the destination, though. Along the way, you will encounter fascinating cultures, meet friendly locals, and learn about the history of the region. Whether you are a seasoned trekker or a first-timer, the Annapurna Tilicho Lake Trek is an experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. So pack your bags, lace up your boots, and get ready for an adventure that will take you to the top of the world.

Trekking Route and Highlights

The Annapurna Tilicho Lake Trek is a 19-day journey that starts in Kathmandu and takes you through the Annapurna Conservation Area. The trek is a circular route that starts and ends in Besisahar. The route takes you through several villages, including Chame, Pisang, and Manang, before reaching Tilicho Lake. The trek then continues through Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi, and finally to Thorong La Pass, which is the highest point on the trek at an altitude of 5,416 meters.

The highlights of the trek include the stunning Himalayan scenery, the diverse flora and fauna, and the unique culture and traditions of the local communities. The trek also takes you through several natural hot springs, where you can relax and rejuvenate after a long day of trekking.

How long does it take to hike Annapurna Tilicho Lake Trek?

Annapurna Tilicho lake trek is a legendary and beautiful trek within the Annapurna region where it takes 14 to 18 days to hike this wonderful route. This beautiful trek starts from Dharapani and this trekking trail is similar for both treks. Many trekkers prefer to combine this beautiful lake visit with this trek which is about 14 to 18 days of a round trip. This beautiful lake has located at an altitude of 4949 meters from sea level. Trekking in this lake trek is filled with blue glacier waters and the trek is recommended for trekkers who are looking for an adventurous and challenging trek on this beautiful route. This lake trek is one of the most visited places in the Annapurna region and most tourists and trekkers choose this destination due to the immense beauty of Tilicho Lakes.

Can a beginner do the Annapurna Tilicho Lake Trek?

Tilicho Lake trek is considered the longest mountain passes in the world which is a dream of all trekkers to over the magnificent Himalayan peaks. It is also suitable for beginners as well as first-timer hikers and it passes through distinct regional scenery of rivers, flora, and fauna and above different mountains. If you have questioned whether this beautiful trekking is for the beginner then yes it is. Although, we all know that this beautiful trekking destination is difficult to do but proper packing and preparation make your journey more comfortable even if you are a beginner. There is no burden that if you are a beginner you can if you have that guts that you can do then you can do it. The only needed is for this trekker you are physically and mentally strong and it doesn’t matter whether you are a beginner or a pro trekker.

Annapurna Tilicho Lake Trek route

Trekking in the beautiful Tilicho Lake starts from Dharapani where it takes about 9 to 10 hours to reach there by private jeep. While driving towards Dharapani, you will get a chance to enjoy the natural beauty throughout the drive. From Dharapani, the walking trekking starts, and from here, we will start walking towards Chame today will be the first walking of this beautiful trek. There are many routes to start this beautiful trekking. You can start your trekking by walking from Besisahar too.

On this trek, you will get an opportunity to know about the culture and traditions of the local people who leaves here for decades to decades. While trekking on this route, you will get a chance to know about the culture and traditions of the Gurung people who are local inhabitants. We will have an opportunity to explore the beautiful Annapurna Conservation Area which is home to many endangered birds, animals, flora, and fauna which is easily found here.      

Annapurna Tilicho Lake Trek difficulty

Trekking in this Lake Trek is a moderately difficult trek in Nepal and the trail above Shree Kharka is the challenging part of this trek. There are many reasons why trekkers should consider Lake Trek difficult on the mind before they trek because it can be fatal too and it is one of the highest elevated lakes treks. The time of trekking takes you through the Thorong La Pass which is at an altitude of 5416 meters from sea level. It is at an altitude of 4919 meters from sea level and this trekking is for the trekker with average physical fitness and good health condition can complete the trek. The difficulty we may face during this trekking is altitude sickness, walking duration of the trek, and natural landscapes.

Cultural and Natural Attractions Along the Way

The Annapurna Tilicho Lake Trek takes you through several villages, each with its own unique culture and traditions. The trek also takes you through the Annapurna Conservation Area, which is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.

One of the highlights of the trek is the visit to Tilicho Lake, which is located at an altitude of 4,919 meters. The lake is considered one of the highest lakes in the world and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Details Itinerary

DAY 01: ARRIVE AT KATHMANDU

After arriving in Kathmandu, a delegate from Everest Trekking Routes will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. In the afternoon, you may take a rest or visit the Everest Trekking Routes office. In the evening there will be a welcome dinner given by Everest Trekking Routes where you will be served Nepalese food which will introduce you to the country’s food culture.
Trek time: 30 Minutes transfer to hotel
Accommodation: Hotel

DAY 02: KATHMANDU TO SYANGEE BY BUS/JEEP.7 HOUR (1100M)

Early in the morning, after having breakfast we will drive from Kathmandu to Beshishahar. After reach in Beshishar, we will move towards Syangee and at the time of trekking we will pass through the many beautiful villages, and landscapes and we will have our lunch on the way and takes some rest then after move towards our destination. After reaching Syangee, first of all, we will check out the hotel then we will go to explore all around Syangee where we will spend one night.
Trek time: 7-8 Hour drive to jagat
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 03: TREK TO DHARAPANI. (1700M) 6/7 HRS)

We slowly start trekking towards Dharapani after the wonderful night in Syangee. As we walk away from Tal, the path becomes rugged and winding. During the time trekking, we will pass through many beautiful villages, and landscapes and we will walk on the way through the lush forest of Rhododendron, pine, and oak. We will have our lunch on the way and have some rest then after we will start our trekking towards Dharapani. We approach the steeply-forested village of Kartemeandering along the waterfalls and cliffs, we finally reach Dharapani after crossing a suspension bridge where we stay overnight in a lodge.
Trek time: 6-7 Hours trek
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 04: TREK TO CHAME (2660M, 6 HRS)

Whilst walking to Chame after having breakfast in Dharapani. During the time trekking, we get the opportunity to see amazing views of the Himalayas including LamjungHimal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV. Chame is the headquarters of the Manang District. It will go through an unpaved road so you have to prepare yourself for the possible bumpy road. We will continue our walk enjoying the view of mountains, and waterfalls on the way, and this day will be an easy day. After reaching Chame we will explore all around the Chame village and we will spend one night in this beautiful village.
Trek time: 6-7 Hour trek
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 05: TREK TO UPPER PISANG (3185M 5 HOUR.)

Today we trek to Upper Pisang after having breakfast early in the morning. This route will bring us to the dramatic curved rock face, rising 1500m from the river. After passing this last bit of rock, the valleys open up with majestic vistas. During the time of trekking, the trails will pass through the left side of the valley and you will cross the suspension bridge. It takes almost 5 hours to trek here from Chame to reach Upper Pisang. From here we continue for a short time to Upper Pisang where we spend the night.
Trek time: 5-6 Hour Trek
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 06: TREK TO NGAWAL (3600M 6 HRS)

There are two routes that we can follow today upper and lower. The lower, easier route follows the river to Ghyaruwith a couple of hours up steps where it meets the upper route and continues to Ngawal. The trail to Ngawal is about 400 meters higher than the lower trail. You will have great opportunities to witness high-altitude flora and fauna. This has very beautiful views of Annapurna II, Manaslu, Annapurna IV, Annapurna III, Chulu West, and Chulu East Pisang Peak. We will have our lunch on the way then after we will move towards Ngawal where we will stay overnight at a lodge.
Trek time: 5-6 Hours trek
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 07: TREK TO MANANG (3540M 5 HRS)

After Ngawal we slowly walk to Manang which takes 5 hours. The trail now gradually descends to Mungji which has a nunnery above the village. As we walk away from Tal, the path becomes rugged and winding. During the time trekking, we will pass through many beautiful villages, and landscapes and we will walk on the way through the lush forest of Rhododendron, pine, and oak. We will have our lunch on the way and have some rest then after we will start our trekking towards Manang. It is the largest, oldest, and best-endowed gompa in the valley. Manang is a short walk from Braga and we stay overnight at a lodge.
Trek time: 5-6 Hours Trek
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 08: MANANG (ACCLIMATIZATION & EXPLORE)

Today is a scheduled acclimatization day which should include a short walk to higher altitudes and back to prepare for the two challenging high altitude days to come. On this day we visit the Himalayan Rescue Association. We stay the night in Manang.
Trek time: Acclimatization with Explore at Manang
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 09: TREK TO KHANGSAR (3734M), 4 HRS

After having breakfast in Manang we slowly start our trip in Khangsar which is 3734m above sea level. After crossing the Khangsar Khola on the bridge below Kangsar and slopes to the villages. During the time of trekking, we will pass through the many beautiful villages, landscapes, and wonderful views of the mountain and we will have our lunch on the way then after we will slowly start our trekking towards Khangsar. It takes 4 hours from Manang to reach Khangsar where we stay overnight.
Trek time: 4-5 Hour trek
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 10: TREK TO TILICHO BASE CAMP (4150M), 6 HRS

After spending the night in Khangsar village we slowly start our journey towards the Tilicho base camp which is at the height of 4150m above sea level. Our trail goes through the middle of the landslide area whereby we can see impressive rock formations along the trail. We will pass through the many beautiful villages, and landscapes and we will walk on the way through the lush forest of Rhododendron, pine, and oak. We will have our lunch on the way and have some rest then after we will start our trekking towards Tilicho Base Camp. It takes 6 hours from Khangsar village to reach Tilichobase camp.
Trek time: 5-6 Hour Trek
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 11: TREK TO TILICHO LAKE (4919M) AND BACK TO TILICHO B.C. 7 HRS

After breakfast in Tilicho base camp, we start our journey to Tilicho Lake which is at the height of 4919m above sea level. We spend some time at Tilicho Lake enjoying the scenery before returning to base camp where we stay another night. During the time of trekking, on the way, we enjoy yaks and deer grazing above and below our trail. It takes more than 7 hours trekking to go to Tilicho Lake and return to Tilicho base camp. And we will explore all around Tilicho Lake and come back towards the hotel and we will spend one night in this beautiful village.
Trek time: 7-8 Hour trek visit tilicho lake
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 12: TREK TO YAK KHARKA (4200M) 7 HRS

After Tilicho base camp we trek to Yak Kharkafollowing the main trail down. We walk further until reaching a seasonal bridge in the Thorang Khola valley. The trail leads you around and down to cross the river on an old log bridge between Gumsang and Yak Kharka. Today is a 7-hour trek ending at Yak Kharka at 4200m and we will spend one night in Yak Kharka.
Trek time: 6-7 Hours trek
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 13: TREK TO PHEDI (4450M) OR HIGH CAMP (4800M), 5/6 HRS

We continue our trek to Phedi or High Camp which is 4450m or 4800m above sea level. We will pass through the lush forest of Rhododendron, pine, and oak. During the time trekking, we will cross many beautiful villages, and landscapes of this region. We will have our lunch on the way and take some rest then after we will move towards High Camp. It takes more than 5 to 6 hours from Yak Kharka to reach Phedi or High Camp and we will spend one night in High Camp.
Trek time: 5-6 Hours trek
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 14: TREK TO THORONG LA PASS (5416M) AND CONTINUE MUKTINATH (3750M), 7 HRS

After having breakfast in the early morning you will start your walk to Thorong La pass. When you are at the top you will feel like you have conquered everything and the view from there makes you forget all the effort and difficulties you went through to make it there. We then continue to Muktinath. On the way, we get the chance to see the wonderful views of the mountain, landscapes, and villages. We will have our lunch on the way then after we will take some rest then after we will move towards Muktinath where we will spend one night.
Trek time: 7-8 Hour Trek Thorong la pass 5416m.
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 15: TREK TO MARPHA (2670M, 6 HRS)

Muktinath is an important pilgrimage for both Hindus and Buddhists alike. In the morning, we pay our visit to a Vishnu Temple and a Gompa. After leaving Muktinath we slowly walk for Marpha. During the time trekking, we will cross many beautiful villages, landscapes, and monasteries. we will have our lunch on the way then we continue our trekking towards Marpha. Marpha is also famous as the apple capital of Nepal. The local apple brandy of Marpha is famous all over Nepal and after reaching Marpha we will go to explore all around the Marpha and return back to the hotel and we will stay overnight at Marpha.
Trek time: 6-7 Hour trek
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 16: MARPHA TO TATOPANI BY JEEP. (1100M) 4-HOUR DRIVE

We drive to Tatopani from Marpha. It is 1100m above sea level. There are bigger villages in this area where we can observe the everyday lives of the local people and upon reaching Tatopani, we relax and have a bath in the hot spring. During the time trekking, we will pass through many beautiful villages, and landscapes and we will walk on the way through the lush forest of Rhododendron, pine, and oak. We will have our lunch on the way and have some rest then after we will start our trekking towards Tatopani. After reaching Tatopani we will explore all around Tatopani and we will spend one night in Tatopani.
Trek time: 4 Hour Jeep drive to Tatopani
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 17: TREK TO GHOREPANI (2800M, 7 HRS)

After leaving Tatopani we slowly start our trip to Ghorepani which is 7 hours from Tatopani. It is 2800m above sea level. During the time trekking, we will pass through the beautiful Gurung village, Landscapes, and monasteries and get the chance to see the wonderful views of the mountain. We will have our Lunch on the way and take some rest then after we will move towards Ghorepani. We will pass through the Lush forest of Rhododendron, pine, and oak. It takes 5-6 hours to reach Ghorepani where we stay overnight.
Trek time: 6-7 hour trek
Accommodation: Tea House

DAY 18: EARLY MORNING TREK TO POON HILL (3210M.) AND CONTINUE TO POKHARA

Poon hill is the most popular trekking destination in the Annapurna region. In the early morning, we climb to Poon Hill to see the awesome views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre, and others. The panoramic views of the sunrise over the Himalayas will take your breath away. After taking in the views of this panoramic scenery we return back to Ghorepani. After breakfast, The Continue to Trek to Nayapul and Drive to Pokhara to stay overnight at the hotel.
Trek time: 5-6 Hour Trek & 2 Hour drive
Accommodation: Hotel

DAY 19: POKHARA TO KATHMANDU BY TOURIST BUS

In the morning time, around 7:00 am we will drive towards Kathmandu valley. We get the chance to see the wonderful scenery of Nepal. After reach in Kathmandu valley, First of all, we will check out our hotel first then we will explore all around the Thamel Bazaar and have a farewell dinner. And return back to the hotel and spend one night in this village.
Trek time: 7-8 hour drive to Kathmandu
Accommodation: Hotel

DAY 20: FINAL INTERNATIONAL DEPARTURE

We will drop you at the International Airport with our vehicle for your departure and we will see you off.
Trek time: Final departure
Accommodation: Home

Cost Include/Exclude

Cost Includes

  • Airport / Hotel / Airport pick up and Drop by private car/van/bus.
  • Kathmandu to Besisahar Express Bus to Jagat Local Jeep and Pokhara to Kathmandu by Tourist bus
  • Hotel In Kathmandu: 2 Nights of standard accommodation in Katmandu including Breakfast.
  • 1-night hotel in Pokhara includes Breakfast.
  • You’re Meal in During the Trekking as Your standard meals (3 times a day Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner with a cup of tea or Coffee).
  • All Trekking Permit and Paperwork as Annapurna conservation entry permits (ACAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Permit.
  • Local Transportation Sharing Jeep or Van.
  • All accommodations in lodge/tea houses during the treks.
  • Trekking Guide: Government License holder Trekking Guide An experienced, helpful, friendly, and English-speaking Trekking Guide. His well-paid salary, meals, accommodation insurance, etc.
  • Trekking Porter: porters (1 porter for 2 people). Salary, Food, Drinks, Accommodation, Transportation.
  • After the Success Trip, Everest Trekking Routes will Provide Adventure Certificate.
  • Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service which will be paid for by your Travel insurance company.
  • Medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
  • All government taxes and service charges.

Cost Excludes

  • Meals and Extra Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Private Car, Jeep, Van, or Helicopter
  • personal expenses (bar bills, beer, coke, a bottle of water, hot water, phone call, laundry service, Helicopter rescue, Electronic device recharge such as Mobile, Camera, etc.)
  • Tips for guide, porters, and driver.

Trip Map

FAQ

Fixed Departure Booking

Departure Date Duration Availability Cost Booking

Recent Client Reviews

Liau Gii Hau

Malaysia

LangTang 8 days tour

I requested Mr. Rabin Gurung to have a guide/porter before starting my journey, and he sent a very experienced guide Mr. Phul to be my guide/porter. Mr. Phul has more than 25+ years of experience becoming a mountain guide. I had problems during the hike up to the mountain but Mr. Phul always gave me support all the way, he shared the newer things in the jungle with my brother along the trek.

Source by: TripAdvisor

Yap Chun Sing

Singapore

Wonderful Experience trekking in Manaslu

Had a wonderful time hiking at the Manaslu area with my tour guide Sushil Gurung and porter Madan Gurung. They helped us with our every need from last minute rental gear like sleeping bags to telling us more about Nepal and being knowledgeable about the area. Both of them are experienced and knowledgeable. Both of them are very observant about how you are coping with the pace and terrain and will change pace to suit your pace.

Source by: TripAdvisor

Deon Poh

Singapore

Manaslu Circuit Trekking

Positive experience liaising with Everest Trekking for our Manaslu Circuit Trek.
The guide made adjustments to our plans based on our comfort/fitness level and the weather so that we managed to finish the trail.
Our guide helped us secure some last-minute stuff for us like our sleeping bag rentals.
Most importantly the hike itself was great as well thanks to our guide for his hospitality and our porter’s hard work.
Appreciate the apples cut for us every night during the hike carried by the guide and to the porter for pushing through even though his eyes hurt from the sun glare from the snow.
Thank you for this great experience.
Everest Trekking liaison: Rabin Gurung
Guide: Sushil Gurung
Porter: Madan Gurung

Source by: TripAdvisor

Mook Kunnapat

Bangkok, Thailand

Annapurna Base Camp trekking

ในช่วง 5 ปีที่ผ่านมาได้มีโอกาศไปเดิน Trek ที่เนปาลกับไกด์ Rabin มา 3 ครั้งแล้ว ประทับใจทุกครั้ง ทีมงานลูกหาบดีเรียบร้อยใส่ใจ บริการดี ไว้ใจได้ ราคาสมเหตุสมผล ใครจะไปเนปาลแนะนำเลยครับ!!

I’ve trekked in Nepal with Rabin 3 times in the past 5 years, and it’s been awesome!! Great team, reliable services, and reasonable price. Highly Recommended!!

Source by: TripAdvisor

Mike Q

Austral

Manaslu basecamp and Circuit and Tsum Valley

I have just completed a trek of the Manaslu Circuit and Tsum valley with three other friends. The trip was magnificent, stunning mountain peaks, ancient forest, impressive rivers and waterfalls and interesting villages. During the trip we were very well looked after by our guide, Dhansingh Gurung who gently and efficiently took us through 21 days of trekking over diverse terrain and Sangam (Durga) our porter who was always helpful and cheerful. Both Dhansingh and Durga added considerably to the enjoyment of the experience with their friendliness and local knowledge. If I return to Nepal, I will definitely use our guide and porter again.

Sorce on: TripAdvisor

Jasmin H

Germany

Gokyo Lakes with Gokyo Ri

The trekking was an extraordinary experience. Breathtaking views of Everest and the surrounding 8000s. Rabin Gurung always made sure we have a nice accommodation, enough for eating and drinking, warm and comfortable. He is a really caring guide. I would do another trip with him right away. He organised everything so that we could totally focus on the hiking.

Source from: TripAdvisor

Tuffy Kin Leung

USA

Gokyo Lake — EBC

My wife and I had an amazing experience with both Dhansingh and Rabin Gurung. We took a 2 weeks trek with them from Lukla — Gokyo Lake — EBC . What a blessing we had them along the way , we will never forget and be grateful and thankful for the unquie, warm , genuine hospitality that we had , plus all the priceless encounters within the nature. Namaste!

Email: tuffyl@yahoo.com

Sources from: TripAdvisor

Toft Lars

Denmark

Mera Peak Climbing Guided & Trip Operation by Everest Trekking Routes

My brother and I had the pleasure of having Rabin as our guide on the trip to Mera Peak Expedition.
Everything was planned to perfection and we had a great time with Rabin, who is friendly, funny, and always helpful.
Last but not least, we reached the summit.

Source: TripAdvisor

Soren Dorfhoff

Denmark

Island Peak, Everest Base Camp and Lobuche Peak Climbing (October 2022)

I have now used Everest Trekking Routes for two trips to Nepal. I can’t put my finger on anything that needs improvement. The initial communication part is spot on. They are quick to respond and I usually my questions answered on the first reply. Both times I have been greeted at the airport by a super polite guide. I’ve felt welcome and gotten all my needs tended to.
On my second trip, we could not fly to Lukla, because of bad weather. Instead of waiting for the weather to clear up, they arranged alternative transport to the mountains, to avoid wasting precious days in Kathmandu.

The whole city experience has been an absolute pleasure. Except for the hard work, summiting a mountain 😅

Best recommendations to the guys from Everest Trekking Routes 👌

Source: Tripadvisor

Family Tour in Nepal

Alex Lim

Singapore

Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Rabin Gurung

This is my second trip with Rabin and I am already looking forward to a third trip with him soon. That shows how much I value his services, his extensive experiences with the treks, his honesty, and of course, the great supporting staff he have.

I feel safe and well taken care of with Rabin as my guide. He is a man with integrity and deal in a most honest way with us. This is unlike lots of horror stories you read about guides and tea-house owners collaborating to fleece hikers. We pay exactly what we consumed at the tea houses based on the published menu prices, no more and no less. With Rabin, there is no hidden cost.

With more than 20 years of trekking experience, he gave good advises on the route and safety measures to take. For example, he insisted that we started off early on a particular day so that we will reach a section with an ice sheet before the ice started to melt and traversing the ice-sheet becomes dangerous and difficult.

We have a large team of porters and assistant guides to take care of our team of 12 hikers and everyone on Rabin’s team have been extremely helpful and friendly. My teenage son enjoyed playing Uno and sliding down the ABC  Trek icy slope with a teenage porter, a fellow hiker who has walking difficulties was supported all the way by assistant guides and porters and our meals were all ordered in advance so the group don’t have to wait long for food to be served.

Singapore

Sources from: TripAdvisor

Family Tour in Nepal

Mark Gamboa

Vancouver, British Columbia

Everest Base Camp Trek with Suk Bahadur Gurung

Searching for the perfect company to embark on the EBC trek was not easy when doing research on who to go with. I happen to have really lucked out by choosing to go with Everest Trekking Routes, because they were great, through and through.

I did the trek in November but started inquiring with them back in February. Rabin is the CEO of the company, and he has helped me in every way possible. He was prompt in answering my questions via email and meticulously arranged the EBC trek, which felt customized to all my needs. In person, he was kind and courteous. And my guide Suk was friendly and helpful throughout the hike. He had brought all the necessary medication for me and asked every day how I was feeling. Suk is also a very good card player and was grateful for his company on the 12-day hike/ Kathmandu City Hike.

I’m sure most of you reading this have gone with some tour company elsewhere in the world, and perhaps you might agree that most of them have treated you as simply a commodity in the assembly line. By going with Everest Trekking Routes, I never felt that. Rabin and Suk took care of me from beginning to end, and I sing all their praises for getting me to Everest Base Camp, which was a major deal for me and my friends and Family. Rabin and Suk became family to me. Thank you for everything, guys!

Antonia Carol Suning

Sabah Malaysia

Everest Base Camp & Lobuche Peak with Rabin Gurung

It was such a hard fight to join this trip. Because I had to work hard to find funding for this training. It is the first summit I attended team NOBAT ( No Boundary Adventurers Association Sabah ) to the Himalayas with AMG (Adventure Mountain Guide Rabin Gurung), I gained a great experience, which Mr. Rabin Gurung was very friendly and kind as a mountain guide who experience he made this trip so enjoyable, and build a better friendship.

I would like to thank him for giving the best service to us, this is the first time I walk for 21 days hahaha. In every step, he remained faithful to accompany and not leave us, even though there are 2 people in our group who did not succeed, and he sent us back to our high camp Lobuche to support the spirit reaching the summit of Lobuche Peak Climbing.

Nice trip and good services such as tents, food, and stories you tell about your family, it is good, and I enjoyed the trip because you protected me and my team so much.

Keep up the good work you AMG! I am happy to see and to know you! Good luck! * extra bonus able to speak Bahasa Melayu! hehe

Jasen Moore & Helen Kerrandjas

Canada

Annapurna Base Camp Trek with Rabin Gurung

While Rabin is a very knowledgeable and capable guide it was his kindness, Warm smile, and Constant eagerness to help that made our trip truly memorable. Rabin Gurung quickly earned our trust and friendship and would be an excellent companion on any trek! we would very happily Recommend Rabin to anyone who is making a trip to Nepal. He is is a wonderful person and a good friend.

Email: helen.karrandjas@maclaren.com
Details Address: 191 Millwood Rd, Upper Toronto, ON M4S 1J6 Canada

Jaistin Tamin

Sabah Malaysia

Everest Base Camp, Island Peak, Lobuche Peak & Chulu West Peak with Rabin Gurung

Sewaktu saya ditugaskan oleh persatuan NOBAT untuk mendapatkan khidmat ‘trekking guide’ bagi ekspedisi NOBAT Himalaya 2013, saya telah menghubungi beberapa ‘trekking agent’ di Kathmandu melalui emel. Saya tertarik dengan laman web Rabin Gurung dan ‘testimonial’ dari beberapa individu yang penat mendapatkan khidmatnya. Rabin memberikan tawaran kos yang paling berpatutan. Dari raut wajahnya saja saya yakin dia adalah orang yang jujur dan’friendly’. Satu kelebihan lain ialah dia boleh berbahasa Malaysia.

Apabila bertemu dengan Rabin buat pertama kalinya di Kathmandu, memang sah bahawa kami telah membuat pilihan yang tepat. Sepanjang trekking, Rabin sangat professional dalam khidmatnya. Beliau flexible dan mudah diajak berunding. Kami tidak lagi menganggapnya sebagai pemandu jalan tetapi sebagai sahabat..kepada sesiapa yang ingin trekking di Himalaya, sila dapatkan khidmat Rabin. Saya percaya anda bakal membuat pilihan yang tepat.
Email: cliffhanger_08@yahoo.com

Island Peak Climbing

Jeff Tucker & Wanida Tucker

USA

Manaslu Circuit & Tsum Valley with Rabin Gurung

Recently my wife and I visited Nepal for the eighteenth time and enjoyed a wonderful trek, one of the best treks ever, and this was largely due to our guide, Rabin Gurung (Trekking Guide in Nepal), with whom we also trekked around Manaslu in 2010.

If you come to Nepal with the idea of doing ‘your own trek’ with a small party, I highly recommend hiring Rabin. Not only does he have many years of experience but he is very honest and humble, so much so that one woman at a very basic lodge on our recent trek, impressed by his honesty, told my wife that “this man is a very good man, honest man, all other guide-man say lie to customers, say them that price is higher than the real price, so they can get more money.”

Rabin is always in good humor and friendly and gets along well with the local people and the porters too. Furthermore, his varied experience from his earlier years as a porter and cook helped to make him a better guide. I can’t remember how many times during our treks, when we stopped at a new or very basic lodge, or even at a tea house for lunch, when the owner’s cooking skills were at most primitive, Rabin tactfully volunteered to move into the kitchen and some amazingly delicious food would come out, made from the most simple ingredients.

Three years ago, in March of 2010, the Manaslu trek was not what it is now. Along the entire trek from Arughat (where we had to start walking), until we reached to Annapurna circuit route, there was at that time only a single lodge with what could be called a ‘menu’, and that was the one and only lodge in Sama village at that time. All other villages either had nothing but dal bhat and perhaps chapatis, or nothing to eat and no lodge at all. We had to camp some places, but when we could, we stayed in the simple lodges that existed and he often improved our diet by cooking foods that the proprietor did not know how to cook, sometimes even such a basic menu item as an omelet, to be rolled up inside a chapati for breakfast.

This year, again in March, we decided to return to the same area, with the desire to explore the newly opened valley of Tsum. This is a lovely, beautiful valley populated by some 4000 Tibetan people, who have lived for nearly a thousand years in that inaccessible ‘hidden valley’, connected by easy passes to Tibet but until not so many decades ago, without any reasonable connection to Nepal through the truly stupendous canyons of the lower section of the valley. Indeed, many inhabitants could not speak any Nepali, only Tibetan, which made it difficult at times. We had a double permit, which if you ever want to see Tsum Valley thoroughly, I highly recommend. Most people try to do a quick one-week detour to Tsum Valley as a kind of bonus side trip on the way around Manaslu. They never know what they have missed. Some of the most interesting villages and friendliest people, and some truly awesome scenery, can be visited in Tsum valley if you have time. One week is too little time to see more than a quick glimpse of the Valley.

I and my wife have been trekking in Nepal for years, myself since 1981, and our trek to Manaslu was the first time we had ever used a guide (because it was required on that trek), despite having visited some very remote areas such as crossing the Trashi Labtsa Pass from Khumbu into Rolwaling with friends in 1982. I had doubts about using a guide, I had seen how so many of them control their clients and take a commission from lodge owners to fill their pockets, I have seen many guides from Kathmandu who knew less about the local people and places than I did. I say this not to boast but as a word of caution: there are all too few honest, humble, helpful, and experienced guides out there, and many of those who are have moved into the higher levels of trekking management and no longer guide. But from the first days, on our 2010 Manaslu trek, we were impressed by the level of experience Rabin has, and also his sensitivity in allowing us to make our own itinerary day by day. He never was angry, never showed irritation, always explained patiently what was going on, and was always in a good mood. We were a group of five at that time, and by the end of the first week, we all agreed that if we returned to Nepal for another trek requiring a guide, we would try to get Rabin again.

This is what we did in March 2013 on our visit to Tsum Valley. Using more porters in order to have tents and extra food, we planned to visit the highest area of the upper end of Tsum Valley and ascend to one of the high passes overlooking Tibet. This year was plagued by poor weather and too much snow in March, however, and we were unable to do that, as were all the people who had set out to trek around Manaslu this March: the deep snow at higher elevations did not allow anyone in the first weeks of March to cross the Larkya La and go around Manaslu. But we had time, and because of the tents and food we had, we also had more options. The tents and food we used in a wonderful visit to the nunnery at Gumalungdang, up a steep side valley surrounded by the huge peaks of Ganesh Himal. We camped there for two nights, as there is no accommodation yet, and enjoyed incredible sunrise views of the nearby Ganesh Himal and also the distant great Peaks of HImalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, and Manaslu.

Tsum Valley is developing rapidly, as is the Manaslu circuit. However, particularly if you are new to Nepal trekking, don’t believe the hype that many agencies will tell you, that the Manaslu trek is the “new Annapurna circuit”. The Annapurna trek, over a period of three decades, developed a huge infrastructure for trekkers, with scores and scores of hotels, often equipped with deluxe menus and services, hot showers, laundry service, spring mattresses, etc. I think it will be some time yet before these things appear on the Manaslu trek, and if you find them in some places, don’t expect them at the next place. Tsum Valley is one step back in development yet.

One problem to watch out for is this: Manaslu Tsum Valley’s popularity and this can be said for Manaslu too, is growing much faster than services can be built–may be large because the road around Annapurna has grown so quickly and has put people off from that once glorious trek. We were there both times in March when there are fewer trekkers than in April or especially during the high season in October and November. In Tsum, as of March 2013, there was only one real lodge with rooms, and that was just a bit beyond Lokhpa at the foot of the valley. The other ‘lodges’ were basically beds in a side room of a local house, the largest such able to sleep ten people but others only four or five. Most villages had only one such place for trekkers to sleep, some villages had no place. When we reached Mu Gompa, in March all but one of the 80 monks were away from the valley for the winter, and furthermore, there was no food available at all. Only because we had our tents and stove and food for going higher up the valley (which we were unable to do because of snow), were we able to stay there e and eat our own food, instead of returning to Nile village the same day. The same goes for Gumbalunddang, where no food was available. if you are going o visit Tsum valley, and perhaps Manaslu too, during the busiest season, think seriously about hiring at least one EXTRA porter and having a tent, stove, and food, in case of accommodation is full! It might be worth it! Also, think of the porters: we saw many groups of two or three with a guide and a single porter carrying an enormous load, who was trailing far behind the others during the day. Many of them were unhappy with the arrangement.

In conclusion, this time with four people in our group, and with several porters and with Rabin as our guide again, we once more enjoyed what all agreed was one of the best treks we’ve ever done in the Himalayas, out of a total number of over thirty now, in Nepal and India. Rabin is an excellent choice for a guide. He is honest and will help you save money instead of trying to find ways to squeeze more for himself, he is fun and funny and friendly and all along the trails, he makes new friends with the people we meet along the way. He is experienced but doesn’t try to tell the customers what to do, he asks what they want to do, and then explains the options. If you are the type of trekker who is truly interested in Nepal, in the places, the culture, and religion and people and villages, and like to understand what is happening around you, hire Rabin as your guide, you won’t be disappointed. Indeed, like us (except for one, the same group that went around Manaslu with Rabin three years earlier), perhaps you will want to return to Nepal and go on another trek with Rabin Gurung!

Email: jefftckr@s8.dion.ne.jp

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