Annapurna Circuit Tilicho Lake Trek

A new version of classic Annapurna circuit trek.

Trip Facts

duration Duration 17 days
trip-difficulty Trip Difficulty Difficult
trip-difficulty Highest Point 5416m
Average Group Size 6-10
trip-code Trip Code ACTLTAH
trip-code Area Annapurna Region
trip-code Start Point Kathmandu
trip-start-point Trip End Point Kathmandu
trip-accomodation Accomodation Local Lodges
trip-meals Meals As Mentioned
transportation Transportation On Private Basis

Trip Highlights

  • Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world.
  • Thorong La Pass (5,416m), the highest point of Annapurna Circuit.
  • Witnessing Large numbers of flora and fauna during the trek.
  • Ethnic tribes and their diverse cultures throughout the trek.
  • Breathtaking views of several mountainous ranges.
  • Tilicho Lake (4,919m), a lake situated at the highest altitude.
  • 360-degree mountain view of majestic mountains.

Trip Overview

A new version of the classic Annapurna circuit trek. Classic Annapurna circuit trek consists of a long duration of walking and exploring the areas of Manang and Mustang of Nepal. Trekkers can visit the Annapurna circuit either for a short or a long period. The difficulty level of the Annapurna circuit Tilicho Lake trek is moderate and can be done by people having a basic fitness level. Similarly, this trek is suitable for beginners who have some short hiking experience as it is a difficult trek. The road facilities are present there recently and reach the Manang village. Because of that, the total distance of the Annapurna circuit trek varies from 160-300 kilometers. Most of the trekkers start the trek from Bhulbhule while some drive to the Manang village of Nepal and start the trek from there. Basic accommodation facilities can be seen throughout the trekking trail. Annapurna circuit trek is best when Tilicho Lake is included in the itinerary. 

Another prominent place in this region is Tilicho lake. Tilicho lake lies at an altitude of 4,919 meters. So, it is also popular as the lake is situated at the highest elevations. It lies in the Manang district. One can enjoy the panoramic views of various mountains like Khangsar, Nilgiri, Muktinath Peak, etc. But before reaching Tilicho Lake from Mang village you will need to pass the landslide area and need to spend a night at Tilicho Base Camp. Meanwhile, the altitude of the Tilicho base camp is 4,200 meters above sea level. Spending a night at such a high altitude may be difficult for beginners to adapt to. Because of that, we have an outlet for the day-to-day detailed itineraries of the Annapurna circuit Tilicho lake trek. This helps in gradually gaining altitude and minimizes the chances of having altitude sickness. 

Spring (March-May) and Autumn (Oct-Nov/Mid-Dec) are the best seasons to traverse this area. During this period of the year, the weather is clear and comfortable for trekking in Nepal. Because of that, amazing views of the mountain ranges and landscapes can be seen. The weather is clear and the sky-piercing mountains can be seen throughout your journey toward the Himalayan kingdom of Nepal. The months of March, April, October, and November are the best time to explore Thorong La Pass which is one of the toughest passes. During the other months of the year, there is a chance of an avalanche in this region. The trekkers also start their trek early from Thorong Phedi and view the sunrise from Thorong la pass. After a few hours of sunrise, the strong winds begin in Thorong La Pass.

Annapurna Circuit

The entire region is adorned by a variety of natural and cultural heritage. Highly determined by Tibetan culture and traditions. Gurung tribes are predominant. You can see assorted mountains ranging from 6000 to 8000 meters during this trek. Manaslu, Langtang, Annapurna I, II, III and IV, Gangapurna, Nilgiri, etc. The areas offer you the variegation of land from an abundant green paddy field, subtropical forest, deep valleys, and alpine slopes to the arid Tibetan plateau. Inaugurating from mid-hills, the journey continues up to reaching Thorong La pass, the highest point of this trek, and ends getting back to Pokhara. Also, The trek supplies tremendous panorama with the beautiful rugged spot. Trek from Bhulbhule to Manang village is a better option than driving. Manang village is situated at an altitude of 3,540 meters above sea level. Because of gaining such a high altitude at once the chance of having altitude sickness is very high. Meanwhile, at the request of travelers, Annapurna Circuit Yoga Trek is also possible.

Also, The old classic trek used to be walking up to three weeks around four different regions, two in lower elevations with the country’s dominant lush green subtropical valleys. And two in high elevation. The upper regions of the trek are cold throughout the year. Proper trekking gear is needed. We are here to guide you about what to pack for the Annapurna circuit Tilicho lake trek.  The new Annapurna circuit trek mostly goes on the trails of these higher altitude regions viz. Manang and Mustang. They are at a higher elevation. Manaslu, Langtang, Annapurna I, II, III and IV, Gangapurna, Chulu east & west, Dhaulagiri, Tukuche peak, and Nilgiri are dominant peaks scattered in this region. Annapurna circuit with Tilicho lake trek offers wonderful experiences with the pristine and wonderful beauty of the Himalayan region.

Thorong La Pass

Situated at an altitude of 5,416 meters above sea level Thorong la pass is the highest point of the Annapurna circuit trek. This pass connects the Manang district and the Mustang district of Nepal. The route from Muktinath to Manang is a little difficult compared with the route from Manang to Mustang. The weather around this region is so unpredictable and the cold winds make trekking almost impossible. To avoid the wind, the trekkers have to take an early walk in the morning around 04:00 AM to 05:00 AM from Thorong High Camp to cross the pass.

Thorong La Pass is the most difficult part of the whole Annapurna circuit trek. At this altitude, only half amount of the oxygen is available in the environment which makes it even worse to complete. The main thing to focus on is to take proper acclimatization and drink enough liquids to avoid altitude sickness. You have to gain 600 meters altitude to reach Thorong La Pass from Thorong Phedi. Meanwhile, you will descend about 1,800 meters to reach Muktinath.

Tilicho Lake

Situated at an altitude of 4,919 meters above sea level, Tilicho lake is the world's highest-altitude lake. Similarly, some people also state that Tilicho lake is situated at an altitude of 4,959 meters above sea level. Meanwhile, according to the Nepali department of Hydrology and Meteorology, there are no aquatic organisms like fish or anything else in Tilicho lake. The research was done in 2003 and since then no aquatic organism has been found in Tilicho lake. During the time of winter, the lakes freeze, meanwhile during other seasons of the year it attracts tourists with its deep blue crystal clear water.

Tilicho lake is one of the holy lakes of the Hindus. It is believed that the real name of Tilicho lake is Kak Bhusundi lake which was mentioned in the Ramayana. The King of the bird Garuda was told about the happening of the Ramayana by the sage Kak Bhusundi near the Tilicho Lake. Because of this, it is seen as a holy lake by the Hindus. The trail to Tilicho lake from Manang passes through the landslide area. After that, the trekkers need to spend a night at.

Tilicho Base Camp

From Manang the difficulty level to reach Tilicho lake is moderate. Meanwhile, the landslide area is the most dangerous part of the trek. The surface area of Tilicho lake is 4.8 square km. Similarly, the maximum length of Tilicho lake is 4 km and the maximum width is 1.2 km. Meanwhile, the average depth of the lake is 85 meters. The lake is surrounded by different mountains which include Khangsar, Muktinath peak, Nilgiri, and Tilicho.

About Annapurna Circuit With Tilicho Lake Trek

The journey starts from Besisahar. The further drive from Besi Sahar leads you to Ngadi, Jagat, and  Chame. The trek starts from Chame and continues up to Manang, Tilicho lake, and Thorong La (the highest point on the trek and one of the highest passes of Nepal). Then after, the trekking en route through Mustang. Thorong La separates the districts Manang and Mustang. You’ll certainly find a completely different landscape after crossing Thorong La. Your trek ends at Muktinath, however, you can choose the option to drive or fly from here. One can also hike to Ghorepani Poon hill and return to Pokhara.

Annapurna Circuit is the most challenging trekking area in Nepal. So, a Physically fit and Strongly determined person can do this trek. The difficult section is from Thorong Phedi to Thorong la Pass (around 45 minutes). Also, The complete region falls under the restricted area. So, Trekkers must need Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) to explore this region.

If our trip itinerary doesn’t suit your holiday schedule or you wish to modify the itinerary or combine it with any travel plans, then please let us know and we’ll be happy to create a tailor-made itinerary, designed especially for you. Also whether you are a student group/family group /corporate team please inquire with us. We offer you a variety of packages.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01

Welcome to Nepal. [1400m/4593 ft]

Your Arrival Time (?) Our office representative will meet and greet you at Kathmandu airport and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu.

At. 06:00 PM: In the evening we will meet for a coffee and will brief you on the details of your trek program. If your arrival is late after 5 PM we will meet the next morning during breakfast.

*Optionally you can add one additional night stay in Kathmandu to cover cultural sightseeing in Kathmandu as well for your trek preparation shopping.

Kathmandu Full-Day Sightseeing: You will visit for a full day of sightseeing in Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Swayambhunath.

duration 30 Minutes
duration 10 Km
trip-accomodation Nepali Ghar
trip-meals N/A
transportation On Private Basis
Day 02

Drive to Bhulbhule via Besisahar. [840m/2755 ft]

At. 06:30 AM: Have your breakfast at the hotel and be ready for your drive to the beautiful village on the lap of the mountains Besisahar. Besisahar is about 200 KM far from Kathmandu, it takes Approx. 6-7 hours of driving to reach there. From there you further continue our drive towards Bhulbhule village. Overnight at Bhulbhule teahouse.

duration 6-8 Hours
duration 190 Km
trip-accomodation Local Lodges
trip-meals B,L,D
transportation On Private Basis
Day 03

Trek to Chamje. [1410m/4625 ft]

At. 07:30 AM: After breakfast, you will start our 8-hour trek towards the beautiful Chamje village. Our ascent and descent starts and continues throughout the trail; you will cross the Marsyangdi river several times before reaching the Chamje village. Today you will pass beautiful villages such as Bahundada, Syange, and Jagat. Overnight at Chamje.

duration 6-8 Hours
duration 21 Km
trip-accomodation Local Lodges
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 04

Trek to Dharapani. [2060m/6758 ft]

At. 07:30 AM: The fourth day of the Annapurna circuit adventure starts after breakfast. The trek starts with the ascent of the rocky area. Trek then continues up towards the beautiful waterfall village of Tal. You will walk across the pine and fir forest and pass through farms of barley, wheat, and potato finally reaching the Dharapani. Overnight at Dharapani teahouse.

duration 6-8 Hours
duration 12 Km
trip-accomodation Local Lodges
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 05

Trek to Chame. [2650m/8694 ft]

At. 07:30 AM: Today’s trek will take us to the district headquarters of the Manang district. After breakfast, You will start our trek towards the Bagarchhap from where the glimpse of Annapurna II is seen. The villages on the way to Chame are Timang, Tanchok, and Koto. The highlights of today’s trek are- amazing views of Mt. Kailash, Annapurna II, III, and IV, Manaslu, Lamjung, and other peaks along with Rhododendron forests. With the road access, you can take the jeep to Chame village and start your trek if you are in a short time. Overnight at Chame teahouse.

duration 6-8 Hours
duration 16 Km
trip-accomodation Local Lodges
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 06

Trek to Pisang. [3240m/10629 ft]

At. 07:30 AM: After breakfast, follow the northwest direction towards the Marsyangdi river valley. Beautiful Lamjung Himal and a long run of Mani walls can be seen across the trail. You will see the buckwheat field in Telekhu, and the beautiful waterfalls at Bhrathang village. After crossing the village you will continue towards the upper Marsyangdi river. You will have an amazing view of the curved rock slab of Paungda Danda. You will walk through the base of the rock face reaching the Pisang village. Depending upon the time you reach the lower Pisang you will decide either to stay in Upper or Lower Pisang. Overnight at Pisang teahouse.

duration 6-8 Hours
duration 14 Km
trip-accomodation Local Lodges
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 07

Trek to Manang. [3540m/11614 ft]

At. 07:30 AM: After breakfast, you will start our beautiful day trek from Pisang village towards Manang village. The villages in between the trails that are rich in cultural and natural aspects are, Ghyaru, Nagawal, Humde, and Bhakra (Braga). Braga is home to the largest gompa (monastery) in Manang. The trail passes through the pine forest, farmlands, apple fields, and villages. Throughout the trail, an excellent view of the Annapurnas, Tilicho Peak, Gangapurna, Pisang Peak, and Chulu East can be seen. Overnight at Manang teahouse.

duration 6-8 Hours
duration 16 Km
trip-accomodation Local Lodges
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 08

Acclimatization day at Manang. [3540m/11614 ft]

This is a rest/acclimatization day at Manang. This is important to allow your body to adapt to the changes in elevation. You will hike to the upper area of Manang on this day from where you will get an amazing view of the panoramic peaks and Manang village below. Gangapurna lake, Ice lake, the hanging Gangapurna glacier, and the culture of Manang is the major attraction of this place. You will hike back to Manang and overnight at the Manang teahouse.

duration 5-6 Hours
duration 10 Km
trip-accomodation Local Lodges
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 09

Trek to Tilicho Base Camp. [4150m/13615 ft]

At 07:30 AM: After exploring the full day at Manang it’s time to climb some altitude and change in the terrain. After breakfast, you will start our trek towards the old village of Manang; Tenki Manang. The trail then further continues up towards the Khangsar leading to the landslide area before reaching Tilicho base camp It offers a good view of Annapurna, Gangapurna and Tilicho Peaks. Overnight at Tilicho base camp teahouse.

duration 6-8 Hours
duration 14 Km
trip-accomodation Local Lodges
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 10

Hike to Tilicho lake and back to Sri Kharka. [4919m/16138 ft]

At. 05:30 AM: Early morning you will hike towards Tilicho lake from the Tilicho base camp. The trail is straight upwards. After the strenuous climb, Tilicho Lake along with the majestic Annapurna mountains are seen. Spend some time at the lake and hike back to Tilicho base camp, have our lunch, and head towards Sri Kharka. Overnight at Sri Kharka teahouse.

duration 7-9 Hours
duration 21 Km
trip-accomodation Local Lodges
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 11

Trek to Yak Kharka. [4120m/13517 ft]

At. 07:30 AM: After breakfast, you will start our trail towards the Yak Kharka. There is a trail through the upper Khangsar leading towards the Yak Kharka. This is the seasonal trail and can be quite messy during the time of winter. Throughout the trail, you will have a good view of Annapurna, Gangapurna, Chulu East, Chulu West, and Tilicho Peaks. Overnight at Yak Kharka teahouse.

duration 6-8 Hours
duration 10 Km
trip-accomodation Local Lodges
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 12

Trek to Thorong Phedi. [4560m/14960 ft]

At. 07:30 AM: The trail now heads to the north, you will have the Chulu peaks in front of you and follow the small river stream upwards. The terrain is rough and rugged. You will have already left the tree line area thus most of the trail now will be dry and rocky. There is a high chance of rockfalls and while walking you have to be careful about it. Depending upon the arrival time and the health situation you will further move towards Thorong High camp or stay back to Thorong Phedi. Overnight at Thorong Phedi teahouse.

duration 6-8 Hours
duration 7 Km
trip-accomodation Local Lodges
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 13

Trek to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass. [3802m/12473 ft]

At. 04:00 AM: Today is the most difficult and the most rewarding day of the entire trek. You will be crossing the Thorang la pass (5416m) of our trek. At 5,416m, it is the highest point of our Annapurna circuit trek. There is a small tea shop here at the pass. You can enjoy the panoramic views while sipping a hot cup of coffee or tea.. After spending some time at the pass you will descend towards the Muktinath. The trail now is all going down and cold desert-looking terrain is in front of us. After Thorang la pass you will be entering the Mustang area. Overnight at Muktinath teahouse.

duration 7-9 Hours
duration 14 Km
trip-accomodation Local Lodges
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 14

Trek to Jomsom. [2750m/9022 ft]

At. 07:30 AM: Today after breakfast you will start our trek and you will pass through the village of Jharkot, Shakya Monastery, a traditional medicine center, Kagbeni on our way to Jomsom. Amazing views of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri are seen throughout the trail. Jomsom is a little bit developed town with an airport, schools, hotels, banks, shops, museum. From here you will have the flight option to fly back to Pokhara or drive to Pokhara. Overnight at Jomsom hotel.

duration 7-9 Km
duration 18 Km
trip-accomodation Local Lodges
trip-meals B,L,D
Day 15

Fly to Pokhara, Leisure day in Pokhara. [822 m/2696 ft]

At. 07:00 AM: Today early in the morning, our local office representative will transfer you to the Pokhara airport. (Flight duration from Jomsom to Pokhara is just 25 mins) (Jomsom flight depends on weather conditions and if unfortunately the flight gets canceled we will arrange your transfer to Pokhara by road)

Check-in at the hotel and get refreshed. Enjoy your leisure day at Pokhara after the successful trek. Explore the lakeside area and relish the nightlife of Pokhara.

duration 2-3 Hours
trip-accomodation Hotel Barahi
trip-meals B,L,D
transportation Flight and Drive
Day 16

Drive to Kathmandu. [1400m/4593 ft]

At. 08:00 AM: After breakfast, you will return to Kathmandu. On this day you are returning to Kathmandu by driving and covering 201 km. You will drive through Prithivi highway. You will get shopping time in Kathmandu and lastly, join us for a Nepali cultural dinner as a farewell from us (Altitude Himalaya) (a traditional local dance live performance in folk songs) Nepali dinner in Kathmandu on your farewell. (Visit Bandipur - A Newar settlement located on top of a hill, Manakamana Temple - one of the most revered Hindu temples, or do white water rafting  in Trishuli river on the way back to Kathmandu if you wish.)

duration 2-3 Hours
duration 210 Km
trip-accomodation Nepali Ghar
trip-meals B,D
transportation On Private Basis
Day 17

Departure, Farewell!

You will be free until your flight time. Our office representative will drop you at Kathmandu Airport 3 hours before your flight. Carry loads of souvenirs, memories, and lifetime experiences back home, and Have a safe home return! We hope you enjoyed the trip! If you plan to extend your stay, we (Altitude Himalaya) are more than happy to make your visit memorable and enjoyable.

duration 30 Minutes
trip-meals B
transportation On Private Basis

Trip Guide

The information about the Annapurna Circuit Tilicho Lake Trek is in-depth; feel free to contact us 24/7. We will be available on WhatsApp to assist you instantly. You can write an email if this trip doesn't fit your vacation schedule and requirements. Altitude Himalaya aims to offer the best possible travel experience to the customers. Depending on the needs of the visitors and the group size, we customize each vacation package. We will put together a bespoke itinerary just for your private group.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How difficult is the Annapurna circuit tilicho lake trek?

    This is a difficult level of the trek. Strong physical fitness and mental calmness are required to complete the trek as a trekker requires to walk 10+ days frequently ascending and descending along with two high-elevation walking.

  • What to pack for the Annapurna circuit Tilicho lake trek?

    Normally, hiking poles, trekking boots, socks, flexible trousers, etc are the most necessary gear to pack for the Annapurna circuit Tilicho lake trek. Know more about the list of trekking gear you need to pack before the Annapurna circuit  Tilicho lake trek.

  • How to avoid Altitude sickness?

    Getting altitude sickness is very unpredictable and it can get anyone although you are physically fit and fine. There are a few things that you can do to avoid getting altitude sickness such as drinking plenty of water (4-6 lt/day), having enough carbohydrates, maintaining a slow and constant walking pace, avoiding alcohol and cigarettes, and last but not least acclimatizing according to the high elevation.

  • What is the approximate daily walk?

    The daily walk of the trek completely depends upon your pace of walking. Normally, the average daily walking hours for the Annapurna circuit Tilicho lake trek is 6-7 hours per day.

  • What kind of food will I get during the trek program?

    In Urban cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara, you will be served a variety of breakfast options. However, in the higher elevations during the trip, you will taste local cuisine mostly Thakali food and for breakfast limited options are available. Some available foods are eggs, fresh seasonal veggies, salads, apple pies, pancakes, Dalbhat, bread, soups, and meat (depending on availability) and in developed areas, you can try food from the A-la-carte menu and try a wide range of food options.

  • Can I charge my electronics such as my phone, camera batteries, and other pieces of stuff during the trek?

    Yes, you can charge your electronics at the local lodges and tea houses which will cost an extra amount according to the lodge policy. Till Manang, you will have no problem getting electricity and a network and after you pass Yak Kharka there is no direct electricity but lights are powered by solar power. It's better if you carry extra batteries for your electronics.

  • What kind of medications should I carry for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

    If there are any regular medicines you can bring that with you. Or purchase in  Kathmandu with a proper prescription. We also carry the first aid kit and necessary medicine during your trek time. Besides that, if you are not sure about your health condition you can carry Acetazolamide or Diamox for high-altitude sickness.

  • What Permits do you need for the Annapurna circuit Tilicho lake trek?

    You will need two permits, the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) and TIMS Card.

Services Includes

  • All arrivals and departures at Kathmandu airport as mentioned.

  • Private transfer from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule and Pokhara to Kathmandu..

  • Domestic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara.

  • A 3 star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

  • Lodge or Tea house accommodation during the trek.

  • Daily breakfast throughout the trip.

  • Lunch and Dinner from trek start day to trek end day.

  • All necessary paperwork. (ACAP and TIMS Card)

  • An English-speaking, experienced and government licensed trek guide.

  • Porter during the trek. (A porter can carry 20 KG baggage of 2 people)

  • One local SIM card (returnable) during your stay.

  • All government and local taxes.

  • Guide and Porter’s salary, food, and accommodation during the trek.

  • Arrangement of emergency helicopter service which will be paid for by your traveler’s insurance company.

  • Sleeping bags, duffle bags, and trekking route maps – if necessary.

  • A farewell Nepali dinner on your last night.

Services Excludes

  • Personal expenses.

  • Kathmandu sightseeing entrance fee.

  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

  • Nepal visa cost. (You will require 2 passport-size photos and 40 USD for a 30 days Nepal tourist visa; visa forms can be filled online in advance.)

  • International flight ticket.

  • Travel health insurance. (highly recommended)

  • Tips for the guide, porter, and driver.

  • Sweet things like dessert/chocolate.

  • All alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

  • Hot shower/batteries charge/heater during the trek.

  • Any other expenses which are not mentioned in the included section. 

17 Days from US$ 2275
USD 2200 / Person

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