Annapurna Circuit Trek via Tilicho Lake

Nepal

Annapurna Circuit Trek via Tilicho Lake - 18 Days 18 days

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Tour Overview

trip code

DE-0030

Starting Point

Kathmandu

End Point

Kathmandu

Max Altitude

5,416m/17,769ft

Duration

18 days

country

Nepal

Trip grade

Demanding

Activities

Trekking

Best Season

Spring and Autumn

The journey around Annapurna via Tilicho Lake is one of Nepal's most well-known trekking routes. This trek offers breathtaking views of mountains, diverse cultures, and thrilling challenges. Here at Destiny Excursion, we are proud to organize this 18-day package with 14-day trek, which takes you through the diverse landscape including lush valleys to the dry highlands, and offers stunning views of the Himalayas. This trek is ideal for those who are seeking a long trek and an immersive Himalayan experience. The trail encircles the majestic Annapurna massif and crosses the Thorong La Pass - one of the highest trekking passes in the world. This journey also involves a trip to Tilicho Lake (4,919 m) - among the highest alpine lakes in the world. Annapurna Circuit trek via Tilicho Lake is ideal for the seasonal trekkers who want to experience Nepalese tradition as well as natural beauty.

Details

The Annapurna circuit trek takes you through the breathtaking mountain landscapes, culturally rich villages, and varied ecosystems that range from subtropical forests to alpine meadows. The trek gradually ascends from the terraced farmland and rhododendron forest towards the highlands of Manang valley. As the trek continues towards Tilicho Lake, the trail becomes more remote and mystical, offering you jaw-dropping views of mountains such as Annapurna (8,091m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Manaslu (8,163m), and Machhapuchhre (6,993m). These breathtaking sights can turn your trip into a lifelong memory.

The main highlight of this package is visiting the stunning Tilicho Lake, with its turquoise-blue waters and views of the towering white peaks as a backdrop. After witnessing the beauty of the lake, the journey heads towards the Thorong La pass - a rewarding but challenging pass. This location provides a captivating spot of the whole Annapurna range.

You can also immerse yourself in the culturally rich trail. While trekking, you encounter traditional villages of Hindu and Buddhist cultures. In this village, you can encounter the warm hospitality of the Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi communities. This journey also leads you to the Muktinath temple - a holy site of pilgrimage honored by Hindus and Buddhists alike. Additionally, the route takes you to Jomsom - a well-known town situated in the Kali Gandaki valley (the world's deepest gorge). This path also leads you to Manang, giving you the chance to adjust to the altitude.

The Annapurna circuit trek via Tilicho lake is not just about crossing the high passes, but also experiencing the spiritual, cultural, and scenic depth of Nepal. This journey is perfect for the trekkers who are physically and mentally fit, as the trek can be challenging.

 

Tour highlights

  • Discover the unique Tibetan Buddhist culture, monasteries, and traditional architecture.

  • Trek across Thorong La pass (5,416m) - among the tallest passes in the world.

  • Witness the breathtaking, panoramic views of the Annapurna range, Gangapurna, Dhaulagiri range, Tilicho peak, and many more peaks throughout the trails.

  • Immerse yourself in the authentic village of diverse ethnic groups, including Gurungs, Magars, and Thakalis.

  • Discover the awe-inspiring Tilicho Lake - among the highest lakes in the world.

  • Discover the Muktinath temple - the sacred pilgrimage site.

  • Experience the authentic Himalayan settlement like in Manang and Jomsom.

  • Experience a brief picturesque flight from Jomsom to Pokhara and then to Kathmandu.

points of attraction

The Annapurna Circuit trek is not just about visiting Tilicho Lake and Cross Thorung La pass; it is also about immersing yourself in  Nepal's rich cultural tapestry, diverse landscapes, and sacred places. From the vibrant cities of Kathmandu to the remote places of Manang and Mustang, this journey is a blend of spiritual heritage and high-altitude adventure and challenges. Below are some of the key highlights that help to make your trek a memorable journey.

Scenic and Natural Attractions

  • Aerial views on Jomsom–Pokhara flight: Witness the aerial view of mesmerizing mountains such as Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges during the flight. 

  • Tilicho Lake (4,919m): Take photos in the world's highest lake, situated just below the Tilicho peak. 

  • Thorung La Pass (5,416m): Traverse through the world's highest trekking pass with panoramic views of Annapurna II, III, IV, Dhaulagiri, and Thorung Peak.

  • Milarepa Cave and Ice Lake Hike: Take an experience of a hike that offers solitude and amazing views of Gangapurna, Chulu Peaks, and Annapurna III. 

  • Marshyangdi Valley and alpine forests: Trek through pine forests, waterfalls, and riverbanks with a change of scenery from lush greenery to desert. 

  • Apple orchards in Bhratang: Hike through Himalayan apple farms having picturesque backdrops of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak.

  • Sunset views from High Camp: Watch the mountain peaks glow at 4,800 meters as the sun sets behind Annapurna and the Chulu range.

Cultural and Heritage Attractions

  • Kathmandu UNESCO Sites: Explore the popular temples and historic places such as Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath, and the historic Durbar Square. 

  • Traditional Buddhist villages: Visit the traditional Buddhist village, such as ancient settlements like Ghyaru, Ngawal, and Braga. 

  • Spiritually stop at Muktinath Temple: A sacred religious place worshiped by both Hindus and Buddhists, and take a bath in the holy 108 water taps. 

  • Lupra Valley & Bon Monastery: Discover the Bonpo tradition in the Thakali village of Lupra. 

  • Evening walk & local immersion: Evening walk in the bustling area of Kathmandu to experience the daily lifestyle of Nepalese people.

Adventure and Trekking Highlights

  • Tilicho Base Camp trail: Trek through narrow rocky trails while witnessing the awe-inspiring views towards the base camp.

  • 18 days of varied trekking terrain: Traverse through the alpine meadows, high desert plateaus, glacier-fed rivers, and rugged high passes through the trek.

  • Experienced guide & porter support: Complete the trek with safety, insights, and connection with heritage.

  • High-altitude challenge with acclimatization: Adjust the body in high-altitude places by taking a day of rest to ensure safety and an enjoyable trek.

  • Remote teahouse experiences: Spend the night in the tea house with a warm meal, even in high-altitude places.

Stay and Experience

  • Comfortable stays in Kathmandu & Pokhara: Start and end your journey in a comfortable hotel.

  • Authentic Himalayan teahouse stays: Enjoy the warm hospitality in the tea house, especially in Chame, Manang, and Muktinath.

  • Local food & cultural welcome dinner: Enjoy a delicious traditional dinner with a cultural performance.

Itinerary

Day 1: KTM Arrival

Your journey starts once you arrive at the Kathmandu TIA (Tribhuvan International Airport). After you arrive at TIA, our representatives will warmly welcome you with flowers. Then, you will be driven back to your comfortable hotel. After reaching the hotel, you can relax and refresh there. In the evening, you will join us for dinner and prepare for the further journey.

  • Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

  • Meals: Welcome Dinner

Day 2: Trek briefing + Permit Day

This entire day is dedicated to preparing for the trek. After having breakfast, you will attend a trek briefing where you will be introduced to your guide and supporting team. During this session, your trekking gear will be checked and necessary details about the journey will be explained. This helps ensure that you are confident and well-prepared for the adventure ahead.

After the briefing, the day will be used to finalize the permits required for the Annapurna region. While the permits are being arranged, you can take time to relax at your hotel or enjoy a short walk in the nearby bustling areas of Kathmandu. Later in the evening, you will return to your hotel and prepare for the trek starting the following day.

  • Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

  • Meals: Breakfast

Day 3: Drive to Dharapani (1,860m/6,102ft)

After having breakfast, your driver will come to your hotel to pick you up. After that, you will have a scenic drive towards Dharapani, which takes around 8-9 hours with our private 4-wheel vehicle. You will be provided with lunch at Besisahar after a 5-6 hour drive. Then, you will continue your picture square drive towards the Syange, where you will get the opportunity to witness the stunning, cascading waterfall, having a height of 111 meters. After 3 hours of scenic drive, you will finally reach Dharapani (1,860m). Before reaching Dharapani, your permits will be checked at the checkpoint. Then, you will enter your hotel, eat dinner, and sleep. 

  • Overnight: Tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4: Trek to Chame (2,670m/8,760ft)

This is considered the first day of the trek, and you will continue trekking for several more days. After breakfast, you will continue our trek by heading in the north direction to reach Chame village (2,670m). After that, you will trek for around 6-7 hours gently to reach Bagarchap. Then, you have to ascend towards the Timang by traversing a lush pine forest. Once you reach Timang, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Mt Manaslu - the 8 highest peaks in the world. Here, you have a tea break to refresh yourself. Then you will continue your trek towards Thanchowk, where you will eat the delicious lunch. After that, you will move towards Chame - the headquarters of Manang District that has facilities such as higher secondary schools, a bank, an ATM, a hospital, and similar other facilities. It takes around a 3-hour trek by following the Koto Village route, where you will find an ACAP office for a permit check. 

  • Overnight: Tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

 

Day 5: Trek to Upper Pisang (3,300m/10,827ft)

After a hearty breakfast, you will trek for around 6-7 hours in a north direction to reach the Upper Pisang (3,300m). In between, you will have a tea break in Bhratang after you trek for 2 hours. In Bhratang, you will see the apple farm and a beautiful farmhouse. Furthermore, you can explore the apple garden. At the same time, you can also enjoy the stunning views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak. After soaking in the mesmerizing views, you will trek along the banks of the Marshyangdi River via a peaceful pine forest. Then, you stop the trek at Dhukur Pokhari for a while to eat lunch. After having lunch, you need to trek for around 2 hours to reach the upper Pisang by following the lower Pisang path - an old village known for its long mani walls. 

  • Overnight: Tea house 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 6: Trek to Ngawal (3,300m/10,827ft)

Once you have a hearty breakfast, you will continue your trek by trekking around 2 hours to reach Ghyaru village -  an old settlement filled with lots of old gumbas, stupas, and mani walls. At this place, you will take a short break for lunch. While having a delicious lunch, you will witness the enchanting views of mountains such as Mount Annapurna II(7,937m), Pisang Peak (6,091m), and Annapurna IV(7,525m).  After that, you will trek for around 1.5 hours along the windy path and have mesmerizing views of the Annapurna range to reach Ngawal. This old village, situated at an altitude of 3,660 m, offers a glimpse of Tibetan culture and lifestyle of the Manang district. 

  • Overnight: Tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

 

Day 7: Trek to Manang (3,540m/11,286ft)

Following breakfast, you will continue your trek by trekking for about 3-4 hours towards the beautiful Manang Valley (3,540m). The path takes you through Braga - a place known because of the ancient Braga monastery that was built 900 years ago. Here, you will take a short tea break and have an opportunity to take a photo. After a short break, you will visit the Braga gompa and then trek via desert road to arrive at Manang - a lively trekking hub with guesthouses, bakeries, and shops. At Manang, you will eat a delicious lunch and rest for the whole day. 

  • Overnight: Tea house 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 8: Acclimatization day in Manang

This day is allocated as a free day, as on this day, you will only explore the Mananag valley more deeply. You can take a short, steep, and acclimatized hike for around 1.5 hours towards the Milarepa cave, if you are interested. Furthermore, you can have a longer hike towards the ice lake that has an altitude of 4,600 m, if you are interested in a hike. This hike can take approximately 6 hours. The Ice Lake offers jaw-dropping views of mountains such as Annapurna III (7,555m), Gangapurna(7,454m), Singu Chuli (6,501m), Khangsar Kang(7,485m), and Tilicho Peak (7,134m). After soaking in the views, you will get back to your hotel, where you will eat a delicious dinner and sleep. 

  • Overnight: Tea house 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 9: Trek to Shree Kharka (4,080m)

In the morning, a substantial breakfast will be provided to you. After that, you will continue your journey with a 6-hour walk to reach Shree Kharka (4,080m). In between, you will cross the long suspension bridge over the Thorong Khola to arrive at Kangsar village, where you take a break and eat some lunch. After completing your lunch, you will ascend to arrive at Shree Kharka. While heading towards the trek, you will be rewarded with mesmerizing mountains such as Mount Gangapurna, Annapurna III, Chulu Peak, Tilicho Peak, and many other snow-capped mountains throughout our trails. Once you reach Shree Kharka, you will relax there, eat dinner, and stay overnight there.

  • Overnight: Tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 10: Trek to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m)

This day is also considered a short day as compared to other days, as you just have to trek for around 2-3 hours to arrive at Tilicho base camp (4,150m). Before you reach the base camp, you need to trek through the narrow trails. Furthermore, you will also have to cross a risk-prone area that is prone to landslides and has rocky paths. In between the trails, you will be amazed by awe-inspiring views of peaks like Khangsar Peak, the Annapurna range, and Tilicho Peak. As the trail is shorter, we will eat lunch after we reach the base camp. After you eat lunch, you can prepare for tomorrow's trek, as the upcoming day will be challenging. At the base camp, you will feel cold, so you should drink lots of hot water and keep yourself warm.

  • Overnight: Tea house 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

 

Day 11: Trek to Tilicho Lake and trek back to Shree Kharka(4,080m)

From this day, your return journey starts. You will begin your trek at Tilicho Lake by holding the headlamps in your head in the early morning. Furthermore, it is essential to carry the water bottles, bars, chocolates, and snacks to stay saturated and to eat, as there won't be any tea houses available along this trail. The trail is steeply uphill, providing amazing views of Kangsar Peak, Tilicho Peak, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, Pisang Peak, Chulu Peak, and many more Himalayan beauties through the trek. Following a hike of approximately 4 hours, you will finally arrive at Tilicho Lake - one of the highest lakes in the world. At this place, you will find only one tea house that is located near the lake. If you are lucky, you will find the tea house open and take a rest there, as this tea house is open rarely. After that, you have some time to click the photos at the lake, which can create a memory. Then, you will continue your trek by descending towards the Tilicho base camp. There, you will have a hearty breakfast and take some time to rest and relax. After taking some time for rest, we will again descend back towards the Shree Khola (4,080m), where you will spend the night.

  • Overnight: Tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 12: Trek to Ledar (4,200m)

Like days 10 and 6, this day is also considered a short day as we just have to trek for around 4-5 hours to arrive at Ledar. Following breakfast, you will resume your hike featuring a steep climb, enjoying the captivating scenery and various stone mani walls throughout the journey. After ascending for a few hours, you have to steeply descend for about 1 hour towards the Thorong Khola (river). To arrive at this river, you have to traverse the traditional wooden bridge. The altitude you just reached is about 4,200 meters. After reaching this altitude, we walk slowly by crossing several tea houses. Then we reached Yak Kharka. Here you will take a short tea break to reduce tiredness. After that, you will continue the trek to reach Ledar (4,200m). In this location, you will spend the night with a delicious dinner.

  • Overnight: Tea house 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 13: Trek to High camp (4,800m)

You will ascend for about 3 hours toward Thorung Phedi by following rocky trails and stopping at a small teahouse for a short tea break. Furthermore, you will also cross the landslide-prone area, mountain gorges, to arrive at the Thorung Phedi. Here, you will take a delicious lunch and then continue your trek towards the High Camp. It will take around 1 to 1.5 hours to ascend steeply to reach the high camp. Once you reach the High camp, you will be amazed by the sunset view. Furthermore, this evening is the perfect time to witness the breathtaking mountain views such as Mount Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Chulu, Pisang, Thorong Peak, and many more as the sunset light directly strikes the mountains, creating awe-inspiring views. You need to conserve your energy, as you've just reached an altitude of 4,800 meters, which can cause altitude sickness. On this day, you will have dinner early so that you can take a rest and prepare for tomorrow, as the upcoming day will be a long one. It is because you will trek to Thorung La Pass tomorrow.

  • Overnight: Tea house 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 14: Trek to Muktinath (3,760m/12,336ft) via Thorung La Pass (5,416m/17,769ft)

Get up early in the morning and take a hearty breakfast before you continue your trek towards Muktinath (3,760m), which takes around 8-9 hours. You will ascend steeply uphill towards the Thorung La high pass (5,416m), having an elevation of 5,416m. This pass is also considered the biggest pass in the world and takes around 4-5 hours to complete. From this pass, you can witness the breathtaking panoramic views of majestic mountains such as Annapurna II, III, IV, Thorung Peak(6,144m), Yakwakang (6,482m), and many other stunning snow-capped mountains. At the top of the pass, there is a small tea shop where you can have soup,  tea/coffee, and other varieties of snacks. After having some snacks, you will then continue your trek for around 3-4 hours by descending via rocky trails to arrive at Muktinath - a significant religious site for Hindus and Buddhists.

  • Overnight: Tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 15: Trek Jomsom (2,720m/8,924ft) via Lupra Valley (2,790m)

After you have a hearty breakfast, you can go for a visit to Muktinath temple (known for the 108 taps), which is around 15-minute walk from your hotel. From this temple, you can witness the 7th highest mountain in the world - Mt Dhaulagiri (8,167m), along with Mt Nilgiri(7,061m) north and south. After soaking in the jaw-dropping views of the mountains, you will then descend back towards Jomsom (2,720m) by following the Lupra valley route. It will take around 2 hours to reach Lupra valley (2,790m) by descending throughout the way. Lupra Valley is a small Thakali village in Lower Mustang, where you can experience Tibetan culture and visit the Bonpo Monastery. From Lupra valley, you have to trek for around 2 hours to arrive at the destination of the day (Jomsom). 

  • Overnight: Tea house

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 16: Fly to Pokhara

On this day, we will fly towards Pokhara in the early morning, as the weather might be bad in the daytime. After having a hearty breakfast, you will take a flight that takes around 20 minutes to reach Pokhara. While flying to Pokhara, you will enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the mesmerizing mountains. Once you reach Pokhara, you will be transferred to your standard hotel, where the first thing you will do is check in. After that, you will take a rest, relax there. If you are interested in exploring Pokhara city, you can explore the Mahendra Cave, Bat Cave, and David Falls.  Furthermore, you can also boat at Qphewa lake, witness the night view from Sarankot, and visit Shanti Stupa (world peace pagoda). 

  • Overnight: Hotel in Pokhara

  • Meals: Breakfast

Day 17: Flight to Kathmandu

After having an early breakfast, you will immediately go to the airport to fly to Kathmandu. Once you reach TIA, Kathmandu, our representative will be there to take you to your comfortable hotel. Once you reach the hotel, you can take a rest for the whole day, or you can explore Kathmandu city more deeply. If you're eager to explore Kathmandu more deeply, you can visit the Garden of Dreams, Chhauni Museum, Siddhartha Art Gallery, and Asan Bazaar, which you didn't visit on Day 2. After visiting those places, you can come to your hotel to eat and stay overnight. 

  • Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

  • Meals: Breakfast

Day 18: Departure

This is the last day of your journey, as you will fly back to your home country with lots of wonderful memories of the culture, tradition, mountains, and the people. We will help you drive to the airport and pray for your wonderful journey. 

  • Meals: Breakfast

Trek Route

Annapurna Circuit Trek Via Tilicho Route Map

What's included

  • Welcome dinner on arrival night.

  • City hotel accommodation with breakfast included.

  • Tea house or lodge accommodation during trekking days.

  • All meals provided during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).

  • Domestic airfare for clients and guides as per the itinerary.

  • Private vehicle transfers for all scheduled routes.

  • Professional guide and porter services, including meals, accommodation, transport, insurance, and equipment.

  • All necessary permits and park entry fees.

  • A first aid kit for the group (let us know in advance for special medicine).

  • Single Room Supplement cost shared among the group if needed.

What's excluded

  • International flights, visa fees, and airport charges.

  • Travel insurance (required for emergencies and evacuation).

  • Any additional activities not mentioned in the itinerary.

  • Personal trekking equipment (can be rented or purchased).

  • Personal expenses, including snacks, drinks, and laundry.

  • Extra fees for hot showers, attached bathrooms, or charging electronics.

  • Tips for staff and guides.

  • Unforeseen expenses due to delays, weather, or strikes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best season to visit at Annapurna Circuit trek through Tilicho Lake?

The Annapurna Circuit trip around Tilicho Lake is best experienced if you explore during the spring (March, April, and May) and autumn seasons (September, October, and November). During this season, you can witness the clear views of snow-capped mountains, blooming rhododendrons, and enjoy the pleasant weather.

What are the festivals that are celebrated in the Tilicho valley?

In the Tilicho valley, locals celebrate different festivals. Each of the festivals reflects their true culture and identity. Some of the festivals the locals celebrate are as follows: 

  • Lhosar

  • Yartung

  • Lha Phewa

  • Mani Rimdu

  • Tiji Festival

How long does it take to complete the Annapurna Circuit trek through Tilicho Lake?

At Destiny Excursion, it would take 18 days, with 14 days of trekking, to successfully complete this trek. Within the journey, you can witness jaw-dropping mountain views, rich culture, and Tilicho Lake. Furthermore, the trek offers a diverse landscape that makes your journey unforgettable.