Tilicho Lake, World's Highest, Now Offers Internet for Trekker Safety

Tilicho Lake, the world's highest-altitude lake in Manang District in Nepal, situated at an altitude of 4,919 meters, now offers internet connectivity for the benefit of its visitors. The introduction of this service aims to improve communication during emergencies, such as altitude sickness, in the mountainous region. Cholpa Gurung, ward chair of Manang Dinsang Rural Municipality-9, expressed the hope that better communication would reduce incidents of tourists falling ill or going missing.

The new facility was launched in collaboration with tourism and hotel industry stakeholders. Hotel owner Karma Dendu Gurung explained that internet access caters to tourists' needs during their stay. As tourism grows in Manang, local entrepreneurs anticipate a positive impact on visitors during peak season.

Bhupendra Gurung, chief of the tourist check and information center at the Area Office, Dharapani, and the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), reported that more than 200 foreign tourists visit the district daily. They are drawn by the region's breathtaking natural beauty, as well as its unique culture and lifestyle. The number of tourists is expected to rise during popular festivals like Dashain and Tihar.

The Annapurna Circuit, which covers five districts—Lamjung, Manang, Kaski, Mustang, and Myagdi—has seen over 14,200 trekkers in just eight months. Many trekkers come from Israel, France, and Germany. However, specific figures regarding domestic tourists are unavailable.

Local tourism entrepreneurs are encouraged by recent surges in both domestic and foreign visitors. To ensure their well-being during visits to hard-to-reach locations like Tilicho Lake and Thorangla Bhanjyang, a temporary health post has been set up in partnership with rural municipalities and ACAP.

Located about 55 kilometers from Pokhara in Nepal's Manang district, Tilicho Lake is known for being the highest-altitude lake in the world, situated in the Annapurna range of the Himalayas. With an average depth of 85 meters, it spans approximately 4.8 square kilometers. The lake has become a popular side hike on the Annapurna Circuit and can be explored on a 12-day trek. The optimal times for visiting are from March to May and September to November, when weather conditions allow for breathtaking views and unobstructed exploration.