5th Nov. The Himalayan ranges extend throughout the length of northern Nepal, whose snows form the water sources for our many rivers; and, the melting snows also feed hundreds of magnificent lakes in the country. High above the windswept valley of Manang, shimmering under the Himalayan sun, lies a hidden alpine jewel — "ICE LAKE" (Kicho Tal, where Kicho is locally known as ice n Tal is lake), fed by the Chulu River. Perched at an altitude of 4,620 meters, this turquoise lake mirrors the snowy Himalyan giants, creating a view so unreal it feels painted by the Gods. The journey begins from Bhraka Village (3475m), 3kms south east of Manang (3520m), where many often stop to visit the famous Bhraka Gompa, a 600-year-old monastery perched high above the village. The trail climbs steeply through yak pastures and alpine meadows, following the rhythm of your breath and the flutter of prayer flags in the cold mountain wind and, past yak pastures, fluttering prayer flags, and silent chortens,and with the climb, the Himalayas unfold — Annapurna II (7937m), Annapurna III (7555m), Annapurna IV (7525m), Gangapurna (7455m), and Tilicho Peak (7134m) rising like guardians of the sky. Every step upwards unveils a broader panorama — deep valleys below and endless white summits above. It’s a hike that tests endurance but rewards the soul. Though called “Ice Lake,” it isn’t always frozen — yet when winter’s breath hardens its surface into glass, the reflections of the mountains turn it into a frozen mirror of paradise. Trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit often take this side trip for acclimatization, but few expect the emotional impact of standing before such raw beauty. For those who seek more than a trek — who crave silence, solitude, and the humbling vastness of the Himalayas — Ice Lake is pure magic. Here, above 4500m, time slows, winds whisper, and the mountains seem close enough to touch. It’s a place where silence reigns, where the world feels stripped to its purest form — wind, sky, and stone. You might spot grazing yaks in the distance or hear the faint ring of their bells echoing across the slopes, adding a quiet rhythm to the stillness. Ice Lake offers not just a view but an experience — one that humbles, heals, and stays etched in memory long after you’ve descended back to the valley. It’s not merely a trek; it’s a moment of connection with the raw heart of the Himalayas — frozen, fleeting, and unforgettable journey that has a round trip of 16kms from Manang village, in about 7 - 8hrs.
Morning Tweet - Winter teaches us that even the coldest days can lead to beautiful transformations.
Good Morning!!!!
Windswept valley of Manang Nepal
