Annapurna Circuit Trek via Tilicho Lake

Annapurna Region 15 Days TKHACA15ADV

The Annapurna Circuit Trek via Tilicho Lake is one of Nepal’s most breathtaking Himalayan journeys, blending raw adventure, spiritual culture, and dramatic mountain scenery. From lush valleys and ancient villages to the world’s highest lake and the mighty Thorong La Pass, this trek takes you through the heart of the Annapurna region. Every step reveals a new landscape, a new story, and a deeper connection with the Himalayas.

Trip Highlights

  • Walk through traditional Manang villages, yak pastures, and scenic Himalayan trails
  • Witness panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Pisang Peak, and more
  • Visit the stunning Tilicho Lake (4,919m), one of the world’s highest lakes
  • Cross the legendary Thorong La Pass (5,416m) – a true adventure milestone
  • Explore sacred Muktinath Temple, a holy site for Hindus and Buddhists
  • Experience Tibetan-influenced culture, monasteries, and ancient settlements
  • Trek through diverse landscapes: forests, gorges, deserts, glaciers, and waterfalls

Overview

The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is a classic Himalayan expedition that circles the Annapurna massif while offering one of the most adventurous side journeys in Nepal. Starting from the lower hills of Besisahar, the trail gradually climbs through lush forests, river valleys, and terraced farmlands before reaching the high-altitude desert of Manang.

 

As the journey progresses, trekkers experience dramatic changes in geography—from subtropical greenery to alpine terrain and finally to barren, moon-like landscapes above 4,000 meters. The highlight of the trek is Tilicho Lake, sitting at 4,919 meters, surrounded by icy peaks and glacial beauty.

 

Beyond Manang, the route continues toward Thorong La Pass, one of the highest trekking passes in the world. The descent leads into Mustang’s dry Himalayan landscape, ending at the sacred town of Muktinath and the beautiful Kali Gandaki valley. This trek perfectly combines adventure, culture, and natural wonder.


Why Choose This Trek?

  • Combines two iconic experiences: Annapurna Circuit + Tilicho Lake
  • Less crowded alternative route with more wilderness experience
  • Highest altitude lake in the world (Tilicho Lake) included
  • One of the highest trekking passes (Thorong La – 5,416m)
  • Rich cultural diversity from Hindu villages to Tibetan Buddhist settlements
  • Perfect balance of adventure, nature, and spirituality
  • Ideal for trekkers seeking a challenging Himalayan expedition

Route Overview 

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350m / 4,429ft) – Hotel transfer

Day 02: Drive to Besisahar (760m / 2,493ft) – 5 hrs, 175 km

Day 03: Drive to Chame (2,670m / 8,760ft) – 5 hrs off-road

Day 04: Trek to Upper Pisang (3,300m / 10,826ft) – 5–6 hrs

Day 05: Trek to Ngawal (3,660m / 12,008ft) – 5 hrs

Day 06: Trek to Manang (3,540m / 11,614ft) – 3 hrs

Day 07: Trek to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m / 13,615ft) – 6 hrs

Day 08: Trek to Tilicho Lake (4,919m / 16,138ft) & return – 7–8 hrs

Day 09: Trek to Thorong Phedi (4,450m / 14,599ft) – 6–7 hrs

Day 10: Cross Thorong La (5,416m / 17,769ft) → Muktinath (3,800m) – 8 hrs

Day 11: Trek to Jomsom (2,760m / 9,055ft) – 6 hrs

Day 12: Flight/Drive to Pokhara (820m / 2,690ft)

Day 13: Drive to Kathmandu (1,350m / 4,429ft) – 6–7 hrs

Day 14: Departure from Kathmandu

Day 15: Final Departure 


Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (March–May): Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, stable weather
  • Autumn (September–November): Best trekking season with crystal-clear mountain views
  • Winter (Dec–Feb): Cold and snowy, challenging but possible for experienced trekkers
  • Monsoon (June–August): Not recommended due to landslides and heavy rain

👉 Best overall seasons: Spring & Autumn


Difficulty Level

This trek is considered Hard & Strenuous due to high altitude and long trekking days.

  • Requires good physical fitness and prior hiking experience
  • High altitude risks above 3,500m and especially above 5,000m
  • Long walking hours (5–8 hours daily)
  • Cold weather and thin air at higher elevations
  • Proper acclimatization is essential

 Accommodation & Meals

  • Comfortable tea houses and mountain lodges throughout the trek
  • Basic rooms (twin sharing) with shared bathroom facilities
  • Hot meals: Nepali, Tibetan, Indian, and basic continental dishes
  • Fresh tea, coffee, and local food available on trail
  • Electricity available in most villages (limited charging facilities)
  • WiFi available in lower regions (Manang onwards limited or paid)
  • Hot showers available in most lodges (extra charge)

Culture & Local Experience

This trek passes through diverse ethnic communities including Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan-influenced Manangi people. Travelers experience:

  • Ancient Buddhist monasteries and prayer flags along the trail
  • Sacred sites like Barge Monastery in Manang
  • Hindu pilgrimage site Muktinath Temple
  • Traditional stone houses and yak farming lifestyle
  • Warm hospitality of Himalayan villagers
  • Local festivals, rituals, and spiritual practices

Transportation Details

  • Kathmandu → Besisahar: Private jeep or tourist vehicle (5 hrs / 175 km)
  • Besisahar → Chame: Off-road jeep drive (5 hrs, rough mountain road)
  • Jomsom → Pokhara: 15–20 min scenic flight (weather dependent) or drive
  • Pokhara → Kathmandu: Tourist bus (6–7 hrs / 200 km)

⚠️ Safety & Travel Tips

  • Acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness (AMS)
  • Drink 3–4 liters of water daily
  • Carry travel insurance with emergency evacuation coverage
  • Pack layered clothing for changing weather conditions
  • Hire licensed guide and porter for safety and navigation
  • Carry essential permits (ACAP & TIMS)
  • Avoid rushing ascent above 3,000m

Why Book With Ghumnajaau?

  • Experienced local trekking guides with mountain expertise
  • Strong focus on safety and altitude management
  • Responsible and eco-friendly tourism practices
  • 24/7 customer support before and during the trek
  • Fair pricing with transparent services
  • Authentic local experience with trusted logistics

Ready to experience one of Nepal’s most iconic Himalayan adventures?
Book your Annapurna Circuit Trek via Tilicho Lake with Ghumnajaau and step into a world of glaciers, high passes, and ancient mountain culture.

👉 Contact us today to reserve your seat and start your unforgettable Himalayan journey!


Itinerary

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, We're grateful for the warm welcome extended by our official. We will take you to the hotel in our private tourist vehicle. Pre-trip meeting will be done and you will meet with your trip guide. Make sure to confirm your queries about trekking in the mountains.

Note! Pre-trip meeting will be done at the office if you arrive before 4 pm and in your hotel itself if you arrive later in the evening. Be sure to bring two copies of passport-sized photos and a readable copy of your travel insurance policy to the meeting. These documents help to acquire trekking permits and related documentation during the trek. Pay the remaining balance of your invoice and sign in the legally binding trip form and non-liability disclaimer.
Location: Kathmandu
Meal: Not included
Accommodation: Hotel

We will take a private tourist vehicle drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar & Syange. The drive will continue for 6 to 7 hours depending upon the road condition and the traffic. The drive until Besisahar, which used to be a starting point for treks, is on a concrete paved road. Beyond this until Syange, the drive will be on dirt uneven roads.

We will provide the best vehicle matching the requirements of the road. All our drivers are very experienced and are certified license holders for mountain roads.

 

 

Note! If you are joining with us from other cities. We will meet & assist in Besi Shahar. If you are unable to arrange vehicle/flight from your city to Besi Shahar. We arrange it as your preference. Upon arrived in Besi Shahar. Our representatives will pick you up from Bus Station to Hotel. And Check in Hotel (Check in time after 12:00 noon). Our guide will meet you and brief you about your trip in the lobby of your hotel in the evening. Get familiar with your surroundings by taking a walk down the street.
Location: Syange (1100m)
Duration: 6-7 hours (178km+23km)
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Altitude Different: -640m/2099.2ft. & -300m/984ft.
Accommodation: Lodge

After breakfast drive to Chame with observing most amazing waterfalls, Marshyangdi gorges, and Chyamche hot spring. It takes 5 hours for 65.7km. This day you will get to experience most adventure drive on dirt track where road passes through rocky hill and Marshyangdi River gorge

 

 

 

Location: Chame
Duration: 4-5 hours
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Altitude Different: +1570m/5149.6ft.
Accommodation: Lodge

After breakfast we start trek from Chame to Dhikur Pokhara with observing Nepal’s largest apple farm “Agro Manang. This day trail goes a bit upward on dirt track as well as nature trail. After lunch continue trek to Upper Pisang Village. The trail passes through Pine tree jungle and slope massive ridge of Pisang Peak. This day you will get to experience scenic mountain range and Manang valley during the trek. Stay night in Upper Pisang Village where you will get to experience locals with food and people.

 

Location: Upper Pisang (3,300m)
Duration: 5-6 hours (13.6km)
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Altitude Different: +390m/1279.2ft. & +240m/787.2ft.
Accommodation: Lodge

There are two routes to Manang but we follow the trail that takes us to Upper Pisang via Gyaru village. This trail guarantees excellent views of the beautiful landscape and the mighty mountains including Annapurna and Pisang.  We begin to notice a contrast in the landscape and vegetation from today. The cold and dry climate also creates a much harsher environment.

Location: Ngawal Village (3660m)
Duration: 5 hours
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Altitude Different: +360m/1180.8ft.
Accommodation: Lodge

Today is a short and easy trekking day, designed for acclimatization in preparation for higher altitudes ahead. The trail descends slightly from Ngawal to Bhraka Village (3,360m), offering scenic views of terraced fields, Himalayan peaks, and the surrounding valleys.

 

On the way, we stop at Vraga Village, where a visit to the Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) provides valuable insights into Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and tips for staying safe at high altitudes.

 

Continuing to Manang Village (3,540m), trekkers can explore the area and make a memorable visit to Barge Monastery, the largest monastery in the Manang district, known for its stunning architecture and cultural significance.

 

Location: Manang village
Duration: 2-3 hours
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Altitude Different: -120m/393.6ft.
Accommodation: Lodge

From Manang village, the trail crosses a Khola which comes from Thorong Phedi. Continues to climb out of the Marshyangdi valley turning west up the valley of Manang valley. The trail follows this valley westward, passing a few pastures and scrub of juniper trees, as it steadily gains elevation. The trail further passes near the small village of Khangasar & next point Shree Kharka. Now the trail goes through land slide zone & rocky falls trail. This day will be most adventurous trekking experience. Overnight at Base camp Lodge.

 

Location: Tilicho Base Camp
Duration: 5-6 hours
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Altitude Different: +610m/2000.8ft.
Accommodation: Lodge

This day will be most adventure and exciting trekking experience in life. After breakfast we will ascend to Tilicho South Camp through rocky falls trail. It takes 4-5 hours with altitude from 4150m.to 4990. After all will get world’s highest altitude lake “Tilicho Lake”. After spending few times, will back to Tilicho Base camp. Overnight at Lodge.

Location: Tilicho Lake (4919m)
Duration: 6-7 hours
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Altitude Different: +769m/2522.32ft.
Accommodation: Lodge

Continuing on from Manang, the trail ascends to Yak Kharka. We make the climb steadily through Tenki Manang, leaving the Marsyangdi Valley. Continuing along the Jarsang Khola Valley, we reach Yak Kharka at 4,050 m. Herds of yaks and vegetations appear to thin out.

Location: Yak Kharka (4050m)
Duration: 6-7 hours
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Altitude Different: +100m/328ft.
Accommodation: Lodge

After breakfast we start our journey for Thorong Phedi through Yak khark. Now the trail passes through rock fall and massive land slide zone up to Shree Khark. Next trail trail goes through meadows where horses and yaks graze. After crossing a small river on a wooden bridge, the trail passes an ancient old Mani wall in a pleasant meadow and then reaches another small village of Yak Kharka. After walking for some time we cross a suspension bridge and reach Ledar village. We ascend furthermore and pass through towering cliffs before reaching Thorang Phedi, the second last lodge spot before Thorong La pass and next spot is Thorong High camp (4925m.). On this trip we are rewarded with one of the best views of Mt. Gundang, Mt. Syagang, Thorung Peak and Mt. Khatungkan. The word Phedi in Nepalese is referred to as the foot of a mountain. Overnight in Thorong Phedi. Overnight in Thorang Phedi.

 

Location: Thorong Phedi (4450m)
Duration: 3-4 hours
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Altitude Different: +400m/1312ft.
Accommodation: Lodge

Crossing Thorong La pass, one of the highest passes in the world, will be our ultimate objective today. We will be crossing the pass from east to west (Manang to Muktinath) which is the easiest and safest direction. We get up around three in the morning and walk up the mountain. When we finally make it to the top, we realize that our journey was worth it. We can take a few photos before heading to Muktinath Valley at the foot of the Thorong La pass. Overnight in Muktinath.

 

Location: Thorong La Pass(5616m) & Muktinath(3800m)
Duration: 8 hours
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Altitude Different: +966m/3168.48ft. & -1616m/5300.48ft.
Accommodation: Lodge

Muktinath is an important pilgrimage for both Hindus and Buddhists alike. In the morning, we pay our visit to a Vishnu Temple and a Gompa. Descending from Ranipauwa village down the steep and barren hillside, we tumble down toward Kagbeni and finally arriving at Jomsom. The trail today is quite surreal as we trek along a plateau above Kali Gandaki River, the world's deepest gorge. The barren landscape of this area resembles Tibet. Next Marpha village is also famous as the apple capital of Nepal where one can enjoy different items made from apple. The local apple brandy of Marpha is famous all over Nepal. Overnight at Jomsom.

Location: Jomsom
Duration: 6-7 hours
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Altitude Different: -1100m/3608ft.
Accommodation: Lodge

A 15-20 minute morning flight takes us to Pokhara from Jomsom. Once we arrive at Pokhara airport, we then drive to the hotel.

Location: Pokhara (822m)
Duration: 6 hours drive (20minuts flight)
Meal: Breakfast
Altitude Different: -1878m/6159.84ft.
Accommodation: Hotel.

After having breakfast drive to Kathmandu by tourist Bus. This day is final day of the trip.

Location: Kathmandu (1350m)
Duration: 5-6 hours drive (25minutes flight)
Meal: Breakfast & farewell dinner
Altitude Different: +578m/1895.84ft.
Accommodation: Hotel

It’s the end of our exciting journey in the Annapurna region Today we conclude our 16 day Annapurna circuit (round) wiht Tilciho Lake Trekking . One of our airport representatives will accompany you to the International Airport for your flight back home.

 

We bid you farewell, and hoping you’ll travel to Nepal again.

Location: Kathmandu (1350m)
Meal: Breakfast

Trip Information

What's Include?

  • Accommodation: Twin sharing 2 nights in Kathmandu & 1 night in Pokhara at Standard Hotel (3*) and 11 nights Clean and cozy Lodge/Teahouse during trek.
  • Transportation: Surface transportation from Kathmandu to Besisahar & Chame by Private vehicle and Domestic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara.
  • Meal: Bed & Breakfast in Kathmandu & Pokhara Hotel and All meals (B, L & D) on OPEN/CHOICE Menu whilst on the trek with tea & coffee
  • Support Crew: Experience licensed trek guide including his/her allowances & insurance.
  • Permits: All required permits for trek (TIMS Card and Annapurna Conservation area.).
  • Complimentary Gear: Duffel bag, sleeping bag & trekking poles (return after trek)
  • Additional Services: Airport/hotel transfers by private vehicle, First-Aid & essential kit, emergency rescue arrangements and All taxes & service charges

What's Exclude?

  • Personal expenses: Snacks, drinks, laundry, and other personal items.
  • Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara.
  • Personal trekking gear & clothing: All necessary gear, clothing, and hygiene items.
  • Travel insurance: Must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
  • Nepal Entry Visa (Visa can be acquired easily after your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu with a fee of USD 50 for 30 days visa and USD 125 for 90 days visa).
  • Optional/add-on services: Extra assistant guide, personal porter, horse rental, or additional porters.
  • Emergency and unforeseen costs: Helicopter evacuation, additional expenses caused by strikes, weather, natural disasters, or itinerary changes.

Map

FAQ's

It is a challenging trek requiring good fitness due to long days and high altitude above 5,000m.

Not mandatory, but previous hiking or trekking experience is highly recommended.

Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters is the highest point.

Yes, but it requires careful acclimatization and weather awareness.

Basic tea houses and lodges with shared rooms and simple facilities.

Yes, a licensed guide is strongly recommended for safety and navigation.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card.

Yes, in lower regions; limited or paid access in higher areas.

Only fit beginners with preparation and proper guidance.

Immediate descent and medical assistance are required; guides are trained for emergencies.

Traveler Reviews

Emma & Sarah
Emma & Sarah
United Kingdom 🇬🇧 Oct 9, 2025

Our Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek was an incredible experience! The scenery, trails, and local culture were simply breathtaking. A big thanks to the Ghumnajaau team for their excellent organization and care throughout the journey. Special appreciation to our guide Bikash, who was kind, patient, and knowledgeable, and to porter Shyam for his cheerful and hardworking support. Both made our trek smooth and memorable. Highly recommend Ghumnajaau for a safe and well-managed adventure in Nepal!

Annapurna Circuit Trek via Tilicho Lake

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