Mesokanto La Pass Trekking - 12 Days

Visits one of the Highest glacial lakes in the world at 4,920 meters

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Mesokanto La Pass Trekking is one of the most adventurous and off-the-beaten-path trekking experiences in the Annapurna Region. Reaching an altitude of 5,099 meters, Mesokanto Pass offers a challenging high-altitude adventure through the remote landscapes of the Manang and Mustang regions. Manang is renowned for its spectacular mountain scenery, traditional villages, ancient monasteries, hospitable people, Milarepa Cave, and the beautiful Ice Lake.

Tilicho Lake, situated at an altitude of 4,919 meters, is one of the world's highest lakes. Surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Annapurna range, it is a remarkable destination for trekkers seeking remote and less-traveled trails in Nepal. The trek combines challenging high mountain passes with breathtaking Himalayan scenery, traditional villages, and fascinating local cultures.

The Tilicho Lake–Mesokanto Pass route offers a unique combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The remote upper trails reveal the rugged landscape and traditional lifestyle of the Manang region, often described as the high-altitude desert of Nepal. Along the way, you can explore Khangsar, a historic village known for its distinctive Tibetan-influenced culture and Buddhist traditions.

After enjoying the turquoise waters of Tilicho Lake beneath the surrounding Himalayan peaks, trekkers can either continue toward Thorong La and descend to Muktinath or take the more challenging route across Mesokanto Pass toward Jomsom. Crossing Mesokanto Pass is a demanding high-altitude adventure that requires proper preparation, camping equipment, ropes, and an experienced trekking guide.

Beyond Mesokanto Pass, the trail leads toward the Kali Gandaki Valley, home to one of the world's deepest gorges, lying between the mighty peaks of Annapurna I (8,091 m) and Dhaulagiri (8,167 m). Along the journey, you can enjoy magnificent views of Tilicho Peak, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhre, Manaslu, and other Himalayan peaks. The dramatic landscapes around Tilicho Lake and Mesokanto Pass make this trek particularly rewarding for adventurous trekkers.

The trek begins with a journey from Kathmandu toward Syange and continues through the Annapurna Circuit trails via Annapurna Circuit Trek routes toward Manang and Tilicho Lake. Depending on the itinerary, Jomsom can also be reached by a short flight from Pokhara, providing an alternative way to access the region.

The best seasons for the Tilicho Lake Mesokanto Pass Trek are autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May), when the weather is generally favorable and mountain views are clear. This trek is ideal for adventurous hikers seeking a remote and peaceful Himalayan experience. Although previous technical climbing experience is not necessarily required, trekkers should be physically fit, well-prepared, and comfortable with challenging high-altitude terrain.

Trip Highlights

Scenic trails from Syange through the subtropical villages of Bahundanda and Ghermu.
Cross the spectacular Thorong La Pass at 5,416 m, higher than Everest Base Camp at 5,364 m.
Enjoy crystal-clear rivers, cascading waterfalls, and the beautiful Marshyangdi River valley.
Experience rich ethnic cultures and diverse landscapes, from subtropical forests to dry Himalayan terrain.
Admire three of the world’s 14 peaks above 8,000 m: Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Manaslu (8,163 m), and Annapurna I (8,091 m), along with numerous surrounding peaks.
Visit Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.
Explore the beautiful mountain villages of Manang, home to Manangi, Gurung, Thakali, and other local communities.
Discover the spectacular Tilicho Lake at 4,919 m, one of the world’s highest lakes.
Explore the Kali Gandaki Valley, known for its deep gorge, and enjoy natural hot springs along the route.
Visit Pokhara, the beautiful lakeside city, with stunning views of the Himalayas reflected in Phewa Lake.
Walk approximately 250 km from Besisahar to Naya Pul over 16 days.

Outline Itinerary:

Detail Itinerary Short Itinerary

Day 01:Arrival In Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel (1,365 m) 20 min Drive to hotel.

As we received your flight schedule, our airport representative will be waiting on time at the (TIA) Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu for your arrival. We will drop you off at your Hotel in a private vehicle, and you will stay overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 02:Kathmandu city tour and further tour planning (1,365 m) 5 hours tour.

After breakfast, we begin our sightseeing tour of Kathmandu, visiting four remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Our tour includes the historically and architecturally rich Kathmandu Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the fascinating “Monkey Temple” (Swayambhunath), and the magnificent Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in the world.

We will also explore the local markets and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Kathmandu. After our late-afternoon sightseeing, we return to the hotel for a brief trek preparation meeting. This will be an opportunity to meet your trekking team and get acquainted with your guide and porters.

You will then have some free time to explore the lively streets of Thamel or purchase any last-minute trekking gear and essentials you may need. Overnight at your hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 03:Drive from Kathmandu to Nadi Bazar ( 9,30 m) 8 hours Drive.

We will have an early breakfast at the hotel in Kathmandu. Our trekking guide will pick you up from the hotel in the morning. We will then drive along the Kathmandu–Pokhara highway to Dumre and continue on the narrow, paved road along the Marsyangdi River to Besisahar, and then to Nadi Bazaar. The drive offers a pleasant experience and an opportunity to see local life in Nepal. Overnight in Nadi Bazaar.

Day 04:Trek from Nadi bazar to chamje ( 1,430 m) 6 hours walk.

After breakfast at the lodge, we begin trekking for around 6 hours to Chamje. The trail is relatively flat at first, then climbs steeply along a path cut into the sheer cliff face, some 200–300 m above the riverbed. Eventually, we descend to the stone village of Jagat (1,330 m), situated on a rocky shelf extending into the steep Marsyangdi Valley. From here, the trail has several small ups and downs through the forest before reaching Chamje. Check in at the guesthouse and stay overnight at the guesthouse.

Day 05:Trek from Chamje to Dharapani (1,860 m) 6 hours walk.

After a hot breakfast at the hotel, we begin our trek by descending to the stream and crossing another suspension bridge. We then ascend toward Sattale (1,550 m) along a steep trail where a single slip could send you down into the valley. We continue on an undulating trail above the river. At one point, where a tributary flows in from the opposite bank, the main river becomes covered with huge stones that hide the water.

Following a winding trail to the top of the hill, we can see the flat plain of Tal (1,700 m). Beyond Tal, the valley narrows, and the trail becomes steep and winding, with some sections carved directly into the rock. After passing the small village of Karte (1,900 m), we continue along the cliffs before descending again to the river. We cross another suspension bridge and arrive at Dharapani. Overnight at the guesthouse.

Day 06:Trek from Dharapani to Chame ( 2,670 m) 6 hours walk.

After breakfast at the guesthouse, we begin trekking early in the morning. We follow a narrow trail through the fields outside the village and along the Dudh Khola, which originates from the southern face of Manaslu. The Marsyangdi River then turns left, and as Annapurna II becomes visible ahead, we reach Bagarchhap, a Bhote village with prayer flags fluttering in the breeze around its Buddhist monastery.

Continuing through pine and oak forests, we pass through Danaque (2,210 m). After crossing a small wooden bridge, the trail climbs steeply to Timang Village, situated at the foot of Lamjung Himal. From Timang, the trail becomes relatively level until we reach Chame. Overnight in Chame.

Day 07:Trek from Chame to Lower pisang( 3,200m) 6 hours walk.

After breakfast at the guesthouse, we begin our trek with views of Lamjung Himal (6,893 m), shining in the morning sunlight. We set off toward Pisang, and as we ascend the valley, the mountain gradually disappears from view. Along the way, we pass a large apple orchard and continue through fir and pine forests, climbing toward a high, rocky area as the opposite bank becomes a cliff.

The valley becomes increasingly steep-sided as we follow the trail to Bratang (2,950 m). A short climb from the village leads us to a rocky area where we cross a wooden bridge and follow a steep, winding trail before crossing back to the right bank. We then trek through a pine forest. As the forest ends, the valley changes from a V-shape to a gentle U-shape, opening up beautiful mountain views. Finally, we reach a long mani wall near a bridge and the lower village of Pisang. Overnight at the guesthouse.

Day 08:Trek from Lower pisang to Manang (3,540 m) 6 hours walk.

After breakfast at the guesthouse, we begin our trek with a climb to a steep ridge offering excellent views of the Manang Valley and Tilicho Peak (7,145 m). Descending past Manang’s airstrip at Humde (3,320 m), we reach a flat area where the north face of Annapurna III rises dramatically above us. From the wide fields of the Sabje Khola Valley, Annapurna IV (7,525 m) also becomes visible.

Beyond this point, we cross the significantly reduced flow of the Marsyangdi Khola via a wooden bridge to the small village of Mungji. Cultivated fields appear on both sides of the trail. Below a rocky mountain to the left, we can see the village of Braga with its impressive monastery. Large chortens and mani walls are scattered throughout the area, while the towering Himalayan peaks stretch out before us. After a short, steep climb, we reach Manang. Overnight at the guesthouse.

Day 09:Acclimatization in Manang hike to Gangapurna lake/Hundred lama ( 3,750 m) 4 hours walk.

This rest day gives our lungs a chance to adjust while we rest our tired bodies and take short walks to help us adapt to the thinner air as we gradually gain altitude. Today, we stay around Manang, making it an important rest and acclimatization day before crossing the Thorong La Pass.

There are several optional day hikes, such as crossing the river to see the impressive icefall descending from the Annapurna range or climbing above the village for panoramic views of the Annapurna range and the Manang Valley. You can also visit the Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) aid post in the village for an informative experience. Another option is to visit Gangapurna Glacier Lake, making the rest day both enjoyable and memorable. Overnight in Manang.

Day 10:Trek from Manang to Khangsar Village (3,740 m) 4 hours walk.

From Manang, we set off through the western gate and follow the trail down to the river. We cross the river and continue walking along its southern side through a coniferous forest. After reaching Khangsar Village, we continue uphill toward Siri Kharka, passing a monastery along the way. The rugged trail can be tiring, but the beautiful views of Gungang Himal and Mt. Chulu accompany us throughout the journey. Overnight in Khangsar Village.

Day 11:Trek from Khangsar village to Tilicho lake (4,990 m) 6 hours walk .

The trail from Khangsar to Tilicho Base Camp can be challenging as we walk along narrow paths through exposed and avalanche-prone areas. The trail passes through the heart of the avalanche zone, where we can see impressive rock formations along the way. As the trek reaches the base of Mesokanto La, we may spend the night at our highest overnight elevation, around 4,990 m, where sleeping can be quite challenging due to the high altitude.

We can take a short walk around the area to enjoy views of Tilicho Lake. Overnight at Tilicho Lake in tents, where we will prepare our own meals.

Day 12:Trek from Tilicho lake to Kharka camp via Mesokanto la pass (5121 m) 7 hours walk.

After having something warm and a cup of hot tea or coffee, we begin today’s challenging adventure. We cross the Mesokanto La Pass (5,121 m), heading up the steep slope toward the pass before making a short descent to the base of Mesokanto La. The pass is adorned with Buddhist prayer flags and surrounded by breathtaking scenery, with the surrounding landscape mostly covered in snow.

From the pass, we can enjoy spectacular views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Nilgiri, Tukuche Peak, and many other Himalayan peaks. The trek from Tilicho Base Camp to Mesokanto La Pass and Kharka Camp offers a truly adventurous and unique experience. Overnight in a tented camp.

Day 13:Trek from Kharka camp to Jomsom ( 2720 m) 7 hours walk.

Today, after completing this exciting high-altitude adventure, we leave the yak grazing area of Yak Kharka early in the morning. We follow a steep downhill trail, passing through the small local settlement of Thinigaon, before reaching Jomsom.

The Mesokanto Trek then joins the famous Annapurna Circuit route at Jomsom. The following morning, we take a flight to Pokhara, which takes approximately 20 minutes.

Day 14:Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara (8,20 m) 17 minutes flight to Pokhara.

We take an early morning flight to Pokhara. The flight passes through the valley between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, making the journey itself a stunning experience. After arriving in Pokhara, the beautiful “Lake City,” we can spend the rest of the day relaxing. Boating on Phewa Lake and walking around the lively streets of Lakeside are popular activities among visitors. Overnight in Pokhara.

Day 15:Drive from Pokhara to Kathamndu(1,365 m) 7 hours drive.

After breakfast, we bid farewell to the beautiful surroundings of Pokhara and drive back to Kathmandu. The scenic journey follows the river valleys, offering wonderful views of terraced hills, traditional villages, and rural Nepalese life along the way.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you can relax at the hotel or enjoy some souvenir shopping. In the evening, we celebrate the successful completion of our trek with a farewell dinner. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 16:Final Departure from Kathmandu(1,365 m) 20 minutes Drive to (TIA) Airport.

As per your flight departure schedule, the airline requires us to be there at least 3 hours before your departure time. Therefore, we will transfer our guest to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) for the final departure.

Mountain Miracle Treks would like to thank you very much for giving us the opportunity to serve and facilitate your Nepal trip. We hope that you won’t forget us when you think of your next holiday in Nepal. We are always here and ready to facilitate and serve your Nepal trip.

Well, it’s time to say goodbye, and we wish you a very safe journey back to your loving home.

Trip Photos

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Cost Includes

Airport pickup and drop-off by private vehicle for arrival and departure.
Ground transportation by car, van, jeep, coaster, or bus, depending on the group size.
Full-day Kathmandu sightseeing tour of UNESCO World Heritage Sites with an experienced tour guide.
Four nights of accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara on a twin-sharing basis with breakfast included.
Accommodation in comfortable guesthouses and lodges during the trek on a sharing basis.
Three daily meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—throughout the trek.
Seasonal fresh fruit served as dessert after dinner during the trek.
An experienced, friendly, and supportive trekking guide throughout the journey.
Porters provided at a ratio of one porter for every two trekkers to carry luggage.
Sleeping bags, down jackets, and duffle bags available upon request and to be returned after the trek.
Required permits, including the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.
Basic first-aid kit for common medical needs. Travelers with chronic medical conditions should consult their doctor and carry any necessary prescriptions.
Emergency helicopter evacuation arranged when required, with costs covered by your travel insurance.
Farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali cultural restaurant in Kathmandu after completing the trek.
All applicable government taxes, VAT, and company service charges.

Cost Excludes

All alcoholic beverages, cold drinks, and dessert items are excluded.
Entrance fees for monuments and temples during your city tour.
Expenses for personal items and meals while you are in urban areas like Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Hot shower, Wi-Fi, Battery Charge, etc. during your Trek.
Personal trek/ tour gear (equipment) is not included.
Tipping for a guide, porters, and driver is expected.
Any additional expenses that are not specified in the included section.