Ice Lake is the trekkers' name for Kicho Tal, a small lake set in a hollow high on the north side of the Manang valley. The hike usually starts from Braga, 20–30 minutes east of Manang, and climbs steeply up a dry, open slope via a few stone shelters and seasonal tea huts. Height gain is roughly 1,100 m, which takes 3–4 hours at a slow, steady pace, and most people feel the altitude above 4,000 m.
The reward is the view. As you climb, the whole south side of the valley opens: Annapurna II at 7,937 m, Annapurna IV, Annapurna III, Gangapurna and the Gangapurna glacier, with Tilicho Peak to the west. The lake itself is often partly frozen in November and spring, which explains the name. Blue sheep graze the slopes, and lammergeiers circle overhead on the thermals. In autumn the larches and birches far below add a band of yellow to the scene.
This is the textbook acclimatisation hike: climb high in the day, return to sleep low. It prepares your body for Thorong Phedi and the pass far better than a rest day spent in a lodge. If anyone develops a strong headache or breathlessness on the way, they should turn back, and the guide may suggest the shorter Praken Gompa hike instead. Carry water, snacks, sunscreen and a windproof layer. Tea huts on the way may be closed outside the main season.
Good for
- Photographers
- Solo
- Groups
- Couples
Questions travellers ask
How hard is the Ice Lake hike in Manang?
It is a tough day. You climb about 1,100 m from Braga at 3,450 m to around 4,600 m in 3–4 hours, on a steep, dry trail with no shade, then descend in 2–3 hours. Fit trekkers who have walked from Chame without problems manage it well. Anyone with altitude symptoms should choose a shorter hike.
Is Ice Lake good for acclimatisation before Thorong La?
Yes, it is one of the best. Reaching about 4,600 m during the day and sleeping back at 3,519 m trains your body for the altitudes of Thorong Phedi at 4,450 m and the pass at 5,416 m. It follows the climb-high, sleep-low principle. Go slowly and listen to your body; turning back early still gives benefit.
Is Ice Lake frozen?
Often partly, sometimes fully. In late November, winter and early spring, ice covers much of the lake, and the shoreline is frozen in the early morning even in October. By late spring and early autumn it is usually open water. Either way the views of the Annapurna range from the lake are the main reason to go.
