Khicho Ice Lake — Attraction in Neshyang

In the last week of November, we went on an ice lake excursion from Manang, Bharaka Village. The hike was challenging due to its steep incline, as we had to acclimatize to an elevation gain of 1,100 meters within just a few hours, reaching a height of 4,620 meters. Along the way, we stopped at a tea shop where the owner, a kind and welcoming individual, unfortunately fell ill with altitude sickness on that very day. The hike was demanding, especially given the high elevation, and we encountered only two small groups of hikers along the route. The winds were particularly intense and declining downhill was another challage but the breathtaking views of the Annapurna range and surrounding mountains and the reflection of mountain ranges on the sano khico (small ice lake, which looked absolutely breathtaking taking)made the...

First let me warn you, the trail is steep, over 3k feet altitude gain, the clouds can hide the mountain tops, it can get cold. Ok you ready? Staying in Manang for a nice break and getting used to the Altitude at 11,500 feet? Getting bored of sitting around waiting to get acclimatized. Want a beautiful view and maybe even see some Yaks? This is the hike for you. Its a grueling switchback filled climb to the top but the views are so worth it. Have a feel to it unlike anywhere else on the trek. I was surprised that no one else was up there when I went (off season but still). The lake is blue. There were three yaks. It was perfect....

In my opinion not worth it unless you’re interested in the challenge and/or acclimating for other treks. The views looking back over the mountains were much more impressive than the lake itself, and these views are similar to those in Braka or Manang just from a lower altitude of course. This is a tough trek, took me 6.5 hours return from Manang (subtract 45 minutes from Braka) and I probably walk average to slightly above average speed. It’s basically all up hill with no flats or downhills in between. There might be a tap to fill water bottles behind the restaurant but...