Annapurna Circuit Trek With Tilicho Lake

After breakfast, enjoy a half-day sightseeing tour around Kathmandu, exploring some of the city’s most iconic cultural and historical landmarks. This may include visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, or Pashupatinath Temple. In the afternoon, return to the hotel to finalize preparations for your upcoming trek. This includes a briefing by your guide, a gear check, and time to purchase or rent any last-minute items.

After an early breakfast, begin your journey with a scenic drive to Besi Sahar by bus. The drive takes approximately 6 to 7 hours, passing through lush hills, river valleys, and rural towns, offering glimpses of Nepal’s countryside. Besi Sahar, located in the Lamjung District, serves as the gateway to the Annapurna region and the starting point of your trekking adventure. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and rest for the evening.

After breakfast, continue your journey with a drive to Chame (2,160 meters) by sharing jeep. The road is rugged and adventurous, following the Marsyangdi River and passing through terraced hillsides, small villages, and dense pine forests. The drive takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, depending on road conditions. Chame, the district headquarters of Manang, offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and marks the beginning of the high-altitude trekking experience. Upon arrival, check into a teahouse and rest for the evening.

After breakfast, begin your trek toward Lower Pisang, situated at an altitude of 3,200 meters. The trail gradually ascends through pine forests and follows the Marsyangdi River, offering scenic views of waterfalls, cliffs, and distant snow-capped peaks. Along the way, you’ll pass through traditional villages and encounter prayer wheels, mani walls, and chortens that reflect the local Buddhist culture. The trek takes approximately 5 hours at a steady pace. Upon arrival in Lower Pisang, settle into a teahouse and enjoy the stunning mountain scenery.

Today’s trek takes you from Lower Pisang to Manang (3,540 meters), a beautiful journey that offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural richness. Depending on your chosen route either the lower trail through Humde or the more scenic upper trail via Ghyaru and Ngawal you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Annapurna II, III, IV, and Gangapurna. As you ascend, the landscape becomes drier, with signs of alpine terrain starting to appear. The trek takes about 5 to 6 hours. Upon reaching Manang, you’ll notice the strong Tibetan influence in the architecture and culture. Spend the evening acclimatizing and exploring the village, which is a key stop on the Annapurna Circuit.

Today is a rest and acclimatization day in Manang to help your body adjust to the higher altitude of 3,540 meters. You can explore the village, visit local monasteries, or take a short hike to nearby viewpoints such as Gangapurna Lake or the Ice Lake, both offering stunning mountain scenery. This day is important to reduce the risk of altitude sickness and prepare you for the next stages of your trek. Relax, hydrate well, and enjoy the peaceful Himalayan surroundings.

After breakfast, set off on a trek to Khangsar, which takes approximately 4 to 5 hours. The trail gradually ascends through alpine meadows and traditional villages, offering beautiful views of the surrounding peaks like Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal. Along the way, you’ll pass through yak pastures and may encounter friendly local shepherds. Khangsar is a peaceful village that provides a perfect setting to rest and enjoy the serene mountain atmosphere.

Today you’ll trek to Tilicho Base Camp, located at 4,140 meters. The trail climbs steadily through rugged terrain, passing rocky landscapes, glacial streams, and high-altitude meadows. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including Tilicho Peak and Annapurna I. The trek takes about 5 to 6 hours and can be challenging due to the altitude and terrain, so take your time and stay hydrated. Upon arrival at the base camp, you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic mountain vistas and a chance to rest before the next stage of your adventure.

After an early start, trek to the stunning Tilicho Lake at 4,949 meters, one of the highest alpine lakes in the world. The trail offers spectacular views of snow-capped peaks and rugged mountain terrain. Spend some time at the lake to soak in the serene atmosphere before beginning your descent back to Shree Kharka village. The round trip takes about 8 to 9 hours. Once back in the village, relax and enjoy the peaceful mountain environment.

From Shree Kharka village, you’ll trek uphill to Yak Kharka, situated at 4,040 meters. The trail passes through alpine forests and open meadows, where you may spot grazing yaks and other local wildlife. The hike takes about 4 to 5 hours, with steadily increasing altitude, so take breaks as needed to acclimatize. Upon arrival in Yak Kharka, enjoy the crisp mountain air and stunning views of the surrounding peaks before settling in for the night.

Today’s trek from Yak Kharka to Phedi involves a steady ascent to 4,450 meters and takes approximately 6 to 7 hours. The trail traverses rugged terrain, including rocky paths and high alpine meadows, with spectacular views of the Annapurna range. This section is challenging due to the altitude and length, so it’s important to pace yourself and stay well-hydrated. Upon reaching Phedi, you can rest and prepare for the next stage of your trek.

Today is one of the most challenging yet rewarding days of your trek as you cross the Thorung La Pass, standing at 5,416 meters—the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit. The early morning ascent is steep and demanding, requiring determination and careful pacing to avoid altitude sickness. After reaching the pass, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas. From there, begin the long descent to Muktinath at 3,800 meters, a sacred pilgrimage site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. The entire journey takes about 9 to 10 hours, so be prepared for a full day of trekking. Upon arrival in Muktinath, rest and celebrate your accomplishment.

From Muktinath, continue your trek downhill to the traditional village of Kagbeni at 2,810 meters, known for its rich Tibetan culture and ancient monasteries. After a brief stop to explore Kagbeni’s narrow alleys and local markets, descend further to Jomsom, situated at 2,713 meters. This relatively gentle trek offers stunning views of the Kali Gandaki Valley and the towering Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri peaks. Upon arrival in Jomsom, you can relax and enjoy the amenities of this bustling mountain town.

After your trek, take a scenic short flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, enjoying breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayas and the Kali Gandaki Valley below. Upon arrival in Pokhara, transfer to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure. Relax by the beautiful Phewa Lake, explore the lakeside markets, or simply unwind and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this popular tourist city.

In the morning, board a comfortable tourist bus for the drive back to Kathmandu. The journey offers scenic views as you travel through hills, valleys, and local villages. Depending on road conditions, the trip typically takes around 6 to 7 hours. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel to rest or continue exploring the city.

On your final day, you will be transferred from your hotel to the international airport for your departure flight. This marks the end of your unforgettable journey. We wish you safe travels and hope to see you again soon!

Spring: March to May Warm days, blooming rhododendrons, clear skies Best time for flowers and great views
Autumn: September to November Stable weather, clear skies, mild temperatures Most popular season, ideal trekking weather
Summer/Monsoon: June to August Heavy rain, slippery trails, lush greenery Not recommended due to rain and landslides
Winter: December to February Cold, possible snow at high passes, fewer trekkers Suitable for experienced trekkers, cold nights

Best Overall:
Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) are the best times for trekking the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake typically takes about 17 to 21 days to complete. This includes the extra days needed for the side trip to Tilicho Lake and allows time for acclimatization, especially at higher altitudes like Thorung La Pass. The exact duration can vary based on your pace, rest days, and route choices.

Tea House Facilities:
Basic rooms: Usually small, with twin or triple beds, simple furniture, and shared or private bathrooms (often with cold water).

Heating: In higher altitudes, some tea houses have wood or gas heaters.

Food: Meals like dal bhat (rice and lentils), soups, noodles, and simple Western dishes are available.

Hot showers: Available at many places but usually for an extra fee.

Electricity & Wi-Fi: Increasingly common in bigger villages but limited or absent in remote spots.

Ambiance: Cozy, friendly, and communal atmosphere where trekkers meet and share stories.

Yes, travel insurance is essential when trekking the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake. The trek involves high altitudes and remote areas, where the risk of altitude sickness, injuries, or sudden illness is higher. Travel insurance provides coverage for medical emergencies, including hospital treatment and emergency evacuation by helicopter, which can be very costly. It also protects against trip cancellations, delays, and loss or theft of belongings. Before your trek, ensure your insurance policy covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuations to stay safe and secure throughout your journey.

On the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake, the highest point you’ll reach is Thorung La Pass at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet) above sea level. Tilicho Lake itself sits at about 4,949 meters (16,237 feet). Along the trek, you’ll gradually ascend from lower elevations around 800 meters up to these high alpine areas, so proper acclimatization is essential to handle the altitude safely.