Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake - 15 Days

Trip Facts
  • Duration:15 Days
  • Difficulty Level: Strenuous
  • Destination: Nepal
  • Max. Altitude: 5416 Meters
  • Start at: Kathmandu
  • End at: Kathmandu
  • Group Size: 1-22
  • Best Season: Spring - Autumn

Highlights

  • An epic journey around the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayas of Nepal packed with lots of adventures, breathtaking mountain panoramas, and cultural encounters
  • Follow an adventurous trail within the Annapurna Conservation Area
  • Trek via river valleys, forests, villages, terraces, and meadows
  • Navigate glacial path and rugged, steep slopes at the upper part of the trail
  • Get to see the daily lifestyle of the locals and enjoy their warm hospitality
  • Discover the second-highest lake in the world- Tilicho Lake
  • Cross the highest mountain pass in Nepal- Thorong La
  • Traverse along the deepest gorge in the world- Kali Gandaki Gorge
  • Visit one of the significant pilgrimage sites for Hindus and Buddhists- Muktinath Temple
  • Take a scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara
  • Witness a wide variety of sceneries and mountain panoramas during the trek

Trip Overview

Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake is a fantastic gateway to the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayas. You will specifically explore the Annapurna Himalayas in Nepal on this trek. The journey is epic, with lots of adventures, breathtaking mountain panoramas, and cultural encounters. The best time to do this trek is the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons.

By joining the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake, you will get to discover the second-highest lake in the world- Tilicho Lake (4,919 m/16,138 ft), the highest mountain pass in Nepal- Thorong La (5,416 m/17,769 ft), and the deepest gorge in the world- Kali Gandaki Gorge.

Likewise, you will visit one of the significant pilgrimage sites for Hindus and Buddhists- Muktinath Temple (3,710 m/12,172 ft). The trail winds within the Annapurna Conservation Area. You will come across varied climatic zones, ranging from sub-tropical forests to glaciers.

Mountains like Annapurna (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft), Fishtail (6,993 m/22,943 ft), Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), Tukuche Peak (6,920 m/22,703 ft), Hiunchuli (6,441 m/21,132 ft), Gangapurna (7,455 m/24,459 ft), and many others are seen along the way.

What to expect during the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake for 15 days?

The 15-day trip to Annapurna Circuit trek and Tilicho Lake combines everything, whether you like adventure, forests, mountains, rivers, valleys, villages, serenity, cultural immersion, and beautiful sceneries. From the start to the end of this 15 days voyage, you will make lifelong memories.

The journey starts with a long drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani. From here, you will follow an uphill route that goes via picturesque villages, offering insight into the daily lives of the locals. You will meet ethnic groups on the way, like Chhetri, Newar, Brahmin, Magar, Gurung, Thakali, etc.

The trail is dotted with stupas and prayer flags, which send blessings to the trekkers. Lush rhododendrons and pine forests shift to meadows as the trek progresses. We have a rest day in Manang village, where you will go on an acclimatization hike to Ice Lake.

You will then follow a rugged, steep route to Tilicho Base Camp via Siri Kharka and gradually climb to Tilicho Lake. This part of the trail is narrow, so it requires extra attention. From here, you will continue the journey to Thorong La pass via Yak Kharka, and descend to Muktinath Temple.

Further, follow the Kali Gandaki gorge and walk to Jomsom en route to Kagbeni. A scenic flight from here will take you to Pokhara. Spend a night here and the next day drive to Kathmandu, driving along a well-made, lovely highway.

How to prepare for the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek?

Before the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake starts, prepare physically and mentally for the trip. Keep four to six weeks on hand for it. During this duration, go on long walks and day hikes and focus on building your core strength and stamina.

Likewise, research about the Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake trail. Learn the weather, climate, and facilities you will get. Prepare your mind as per that and start gathering the essentials. We highly recommend practicing deep breathing as it will keep you calm during the journey.

Are you ready for the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake in Nepal?

Do not underestimate the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake, even if you are an experienced trekker. The challenges on this trek are immense and demand a strong body and mind.

If you have previous trekking experience, you may consider doing the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek, but only when you understand and accept all the hurdles of the journey.

Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake cost 2024/2025

The Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake trip costs USD 1,137 per person in 2024/2025. We have the most affordable price for this trekking package in the market with top-notch service. Our Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake 2024 bookings are open.

For any assistance or query related to our Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake package, contact us.

Why do the Annapurna Circuit Tilicho Lake trek with Green Society Adventure?

We make the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake hassle-free. This trek is already very demanding. Our support makes it safer and more manageable. We will book the best teahouses along the trekking route and handle all the permits. Likewise, our native guide and porter will assist you while trekking.

Below are some of the benefits you will get by doing the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trekking with us:

  • Customizable Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake itinerary
  • Fixed Departure
  • No hidden cost and transparent policy
  • Native guide and porter
  • 24/7 support
  • Trekking clothes and gear renting service
  • Complimentary welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu
  • Airport pick-ups and drop-offs as per the itinerary
Itinerary
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We can Customize the trip to suit your interest and help you make it fit your budget. 

Today you arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal's capital. Take lots of relaxation today because there are no planned activities. However, you may visit some sites, such as Kathmandu Durbar Square, or do some last-minute shopping.

  • Max. Altitude:1320m/4329ft
  • Accommodation:Deluxe Hotel
  • Meals:Welcome Dinner

The trip has finally begun today with a drive to Besisahar and then to Dharapani. Alongside the Trishuli River, you will witness lovely terraced farmland and quaint towns with the snow-capped peaks of Ganesh Himal (7422 m) and Manaslu (8163 m) appearing occasionally.

The journey takes us along the windy Trishuli river. At Dharapani, there is a checkpoint where your permit is checked. Overnight stay will be at Dharapani.

  • Max. Altitude:1950m/6338ft
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, we hike to Chame through Timang and Koto. Timang is a beautiful settlement where you will take a break to soak in the beauty. Along the trek, you will get the opportunity to view Manaslu's south face.

Except for a brief high section where you hike upstairs, the terrain today is generally gentle up and down. As you get closer to Chame, you will be dwarfed by Annapurna II (7937 m). Overnight stay will be at Chame.

  • Max. Altitude:2630m/8626ft
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today's journey is partly uphill and travels through verdant woodlands. Before arriving in Pisang, the trail also passes through the towns of Bhratang and Dhukur Pokhari, which is particularly lovely. From today on, the views improve as you catch better vistas of snow-capped mountains, tiny glaciers, rivers, and forests, among other things.

Apple orchards are everywhere around the location. From Dhukur Pokhari, there is a split: one continues with the road and takes to Lowe Pisang, and the other, an uphill track, takes to Upper Pisang. You can take either of these roads. Overnight stay will be at Pisang.

  • Max. Altitude:3300m/10824ft
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, dinner

You could travel the road to Manang if at Lower Pisang. However, if you have taken the road to Upper Pisang, the trek will be lengthier and tougher but provides more rewarding views.

Both cultural and natural splendor can be seen along the walk. After passing past Narodhara, Mugje, and Bhraka and a final wooden bridge spanning Marsyangdi, you will eventually arrive at Manang.

The trail also has Chortens, stupas, Mani walls, and stone tablets with calming messages carved on them that can be found at various points. The communities encountered will enhance your local experience. Overnight stay will be at Manang.

  • Max. Altitude:3450m/11316ft
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

It is a good idea to allow acclimatization with a day of rest now that the altitude has risen above 3500 m. Attractions in Manang include the Gangapurna Lake and Lama Monastery, both of which offer breathtaking views of Annapurna III (7555m). Overnight stay will be at Manang.

  • Max. Altitude:3450m/11316ft
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We chose the upper route today and trekked to Siri Kharka. Traversing through coniferous forests, we reach Khangsar village, and an hour after, we reach Siri Kharka. The route provides good views of Chulu and Gungang Himal. Overnight stay will be at Siri Kharka.

  • Max. Altitude:4060/13320ft
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we take a short hike that passes through a region of landslides and provides a captivating view of Tilicho. The trails are narrow with loose rocks, so a long walk is done. We hike up to the base camp of Tilicho, where we can spend the night at a lodge.

  • Max. Altitude:4150m/13584ft
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is the final day of the Tilicho lake hike. The lake's turquoise color and the surrounding mountains contribute to its splendor. Views of mountains such as Annapurna I (8091 m) and many seven thousand such as Khangsar Kang, Nilgiri, and Tilicho peak, will entice you today. The lake also has a religious significance.

The ancient Kak Bhusundi Lake, referenced in the Ramayana, is thought by Hindus to be this lake. We return to Siri Kharka via the same path after spending some time here. Overnight stay will be at Siri Kharka.

  • Max. Altitude:4920m/16138ft
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, we will pass through the 1,000-year-old Tare Gumba monastery and finally leave Khangsar. Aside from sporadic herders, the Khangsar settlement is unpopulated. Following the seasonal bridge in the Thorang Khola valley, which we will encounter after leaving Khangsar hamlet, we will eventually reach a plateau. We cross a river and trek up to a plateau to get to Yak's Abode. Other peaks of the Annapurna Mountain range are seen. Overnight stay will be at Yak’s Abode.

  • Max. Altitude:4110m/13480ft)
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

You hike today to Thorong Phedi, the lower portion of Thorong La Pass. We will arrive at Ledar village by continuing the trail and crossing a suspension bridge. We will arrive at Thorang Phedi, the last town before Thorang La pass, after traversing numerous high rocks.

At Thorang Phedi, spend the night. The settlement is small and lovely, the trail is level, and the elevation is gradual. The mountains, snow-capped peaks, and river at the foot of the canyon are all present, much as they were yesterday.

We will be treated to breathtaking views of Gundang, Thorung Peak, Syagang, and Khatungkan.

  • Max. Altitude:4600m/15092ft
  • Accommodation:Teahouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

It is a challenging journey today because of the nearly 1,000m of elevation increase on the approach to Thorang La Pass. The stunning vistas of the high Himalayan peaks, particularly Annapurna III (7555 m) and Gangapurna (7454 m), will make up for this once you reach the summit.

After taking in the view, you descend to Muktinath, a temple dedicated to Lord Bishnu and an important Hindu and Buddhist worship site. One of the tallest temples on earth.

  • Max. Altitude:5416m/17764ft
  • Accommodation:Guesthouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, we trek down to Jomsom, passing an ancient settlement of Kagbeni, sometimes referred to as the oldest Himalayan community. Beautiful mud houses line the streets.

The region has a heavy Tibetan influence, and the language and the way of life will feel comparable to Tibet. You will also reach Marpha, famous for apple-related products – juice, brandy, wine, cider, etc.

  • Max. Altitude:2720m/8921ft
  • Accommodation:Gueathouse
  • Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, we take a bus drive to Pokhara, a city of lakes. It is understandable the tiredness you feel but not exploring this city is a chance we cannot take. The city combines natural splendor with lakes listed on the Ramsar site and modern amenities, making it fun for any person.

A much-needed spa, massage, or another personal pampering can be done. You can also visit clubs or just stroll through the beautiful Phewa lake. An evening puja by this lake provides religious calm and peace.

  • Max. Altitude:820m/2690ft
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Meals:Breakfast

The journey ends with a drive back to Kathmandu through some of the most beautiful landscapes, terraced rice fields, Trishuli and Marsyangdi Rivers, and breathtaking views of other mountain ranges. You can take it easy or finish seeing any attractions you might have missed on our first day in Kathmandu.

Annapurna circuit trek with Tilicho lake is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that offers breathtaking vistas of the natural world's splendor and panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountain ranges and other natural wonders. An authentic wilderness experience is provided by the trail's protection from large-scale vegetation as it winds through the Annapurna Conservation Area.

  • Max. Altitude:1320m/4329ft
  • Accommodation:Deluxe Hotel
  • Meals:Breakfast and Farewell Dinner
Route Map
Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake - 15 Days map
Cost Details
Includes
  • Free Airport and hotel transfers as per itinerary in private vehicle
  • Two nights 3-star deluxe hotel in Kathmandu on twin-sharing basic with breakfast.
  • One-night hotel in Pokhara on twin-sharing basic with breakfast.
  • Kathmandu to Bensisahar - Dharpani and Jomsom to Pokhara transportation by Local vehicle.
  • Pokhara to Kathmandu transportation by Delux tourist bus. 
  • Full board meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek in the mountains.
  • Lodges and teahouse accommodation in the mountains. 
  • An experienced English-speaking trek leader (trekking guide).
  • Assistant guide for a group of 5 or more pax. 
  • All accommodation, food, drinks, equipment, salary, and insurance for the guide and porter.  
  • Green Society Adventure's complimentary free T-shirt, route map, and duffel bag (if Needed). 
  • Farewell dinner in a typical Nepalese restaurant with a traditional performance. 
  • All necessary paperwork and ACAP permits
  • TIMS card fee. 
  • A comprehensive medical kit
  • All government and local taxes 
Excludes
  • Sherpa Porter $230 (one porter can carry a backpack for two trekkers). 
  • Nepalese visa fee
  • International airfare
  • Excess baggage charges.
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • All bar bills along the trek.
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara in case of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.
  • Tips for guides and porters.
Departure Dates
PLAN TRIP
Client Reviews
tripadvisorWrite a review
  • A
    Alex SUnited StatesDecember 08, 2023

    Amazing Time Trekking in Nepal!!

    Raj and my guide Shishir were amazing! I did the Annapurna Circuit, with hikes to Tilicho Lake and Poon Hill added on. The accommodations were great and the food was delicious. This was my first time in the Himalayas and I can’t wait to go back! Highly recommend this trip, and booking with Green Society Adventure!! 

    TripAdvisor
Useful Information

Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake difficulty

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake is a strenuous trek. This trek is for experienced trekkers who understand the Himalayan trail and the challenges it poses. It is an offbeat trek, so the trail is quite demanding, with many steep ascents and descents. You will follow an isolated route and also navigate glacial paths.

Crossing the Thorong La pass is the toughest part of the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake. It requires almost 8 to 9 hours of walking and navigating tricky, steep slopes. Likewise, high altitude and limited facilities along the trail also make the trek difficult.

Altitude sickness and preventive measures

Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake is a high-altitude trip that takes you above 5,000 meters from sea level. On trips like this, there is a chance of altitude sickness, which is nothing to worry about as it is quite manageable and avoidable.

As an aware and responsible trekker, if you see any symptoms of altitude sickness, inform your guide right away. Symptoms include headache, insomnia, difficulty in breathing, vomiting, loss of appetite, nausea, etc.

Only take any medicine under your guide's knowledge as he is trained for a situation like this. Below, we have list out of some effective preventive measures for avoiding altitude sickness during the trek:

  • You have to drink a lot of water. At least 2 liters a day is a minimum requirement. Note that a dehydrated body is more prone to altitude sickness.
  • As you have to keep yourself hydrated, do not drink alcohol or smoke while trekking.
  • Maintain your pace and energy. Do not rush and enjoy the moments.
  • Go on acclimatization hikes and sleep at low elevations.

Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake permit

To do the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trekking, you will need a TIMS Card and an Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP) permit. Both permit fees are included in our package cost. Below, we have mentioned the permit cost for your information:

TIMS Card cost: USD 20 per person

Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP) permit cost: USD 30 per person

Accommodation and food during the trek

On the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake, you will spend nights in tea houses along the route. These are made to accommodate the trekkers. Rooms are mostly twin-shared with a common washroom. Single rooms are available in selected villages. You will share a room with a fellow trekker.

If you wish to get a single room during the trek, let us in advance. The tea houses offer basic accommodation. You will get clean bedding and a cozy space for the night stay. Services like charging, WiFi, and hot showers are also available in many places but may cost you additional money.

Similarly, food options like dal bhat, Momo, Thukpa, Tibetan bread, thenduk, rice and curries, fried rice, porridge, soups, etc, are available. Throughout the trail, you will see a decent variety of food on the menu.

Both veg and non-veg food are available. If you have any allergies or diet restrictions, let us know ahead. Likewise, you will get boiled drinking water everywhere.

Last-minute booking

It is always better to keep some time to prepare for the trip to Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake. However, if you end up booking the trek at the last minute, then make sure you are physically and mentally ready for the journey. You have to make full payment of the package cost. As per our policy, if you cancel the last-minute booking, there will be no refund.

For more information, you can get in touch with us.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory while you are planning for the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake. You cannot join this trek without giving us insurance documents with the necessary emergency helicopter evacuation coverage. There are many travel insurance providers out there. Make sure to choose the best one by comparing their prices and advantages.

*Note: Not only travel insurance covers high-altitude activities like trekking in the Himalayas, so double-check it.

Packing list for Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake

You will need the below things for the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake. If you are on a tight budget, we recommend renting expensive trekking clothes and gear in Thamel, Kathmandu. For example, you can get a sleeping bag for as low as USD 2 a day and a down jacket for USD 2 to USD 3 a day.

Trekking clothes & gear: Undergarments, trekking shirt and pants, down jacket, fleece jacket, waterproof jacket and pants, base layers, dry towel, gloves, hat, scarf, socks, backpack, trekking boots, trekking poles, sleeping bag, torch, portable knife, etc

First-aid & toiletries: Sunglasses with UV protection, reusable water bottle, water purification tablets, first aid kit with personal medications (if needed), sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, insect repellent, wet tissues, deodorant, toilet paper, small mirror, comb, toothpaste & brush, biodegradable soap, moisturizer, etc

Miscellaneous: Snacks, bars, nuts, camera, adapter, solar charger, spare batteries, trekking permit, Nepali cash, map, journal, pen, book, etc

FAQs

  • On the Annapurna Circuit trek, you will come across the second-highest lake in the world, Tilicho Lake. It is located at the base of the Tilicho Peak at 4,919 meters (16,138 ft).

  • The hardest part of the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake is crossing the Thorong La pass. Similarly, the trail to Tilicho Lake is also offbeat and steep. The rise in altitude every day also makes the overall journey quite challenging.

  • Once you are in Manang village, it takes around 3 to 4 days to trek to Tilicho Lake and return to Manang village or continue the journey to Yak Kharka.

  • A beginner can do the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake only if he/she is physically and mentally fit. Usually, we do not recommend this trek for beginner trekkers.

  • For the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake, the participants have to be fit enough to walk 6 to 7 hours a day. Likewise, the trekkers should also have good stamina, strength, and endurance. As this trek gains a high altitude and also has constant long ascents and descents, the participant has to be physically fit and in good health.

  • Tilicho Lake is the hidden gem of Nepal. It is the second-highest lake in the world, with stunning turquoise-blue water. Likewise, the lake also holds religious values and offers a surreal landscape.

  • Trekkers do not swim in Tilicho Lake because of the low temperature of the water and unsafe shoreline.

  • The Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake is guided by a professional native guide, so the journey is safe and hassle-free. We will take care of your comfort and safety in Nepal during the trek with us, so you do not have to worry about anything.

  • No, Mount Everest is not visible on the Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake trail. However, you will get to witness the Annapurna range, the Dhaulagiri range, and many other mountains during this trek.

  • Yes, you will need a sleeping bag for the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake. The nights and mornings are cold, especially when you go above Chame. A high-quality sleeping bag will provide you with additional comfort and warmth.

  • It depends on the health and fitness of the children. Trek like Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake is very demanding physically and mentally. It can put a lot of strain on the mind and body of the child. So, a proper assessment is crucial before any child joins this trek.

  • Yes, Annapurna Circuit is cold. The average day temperature is 15°C during the peak trekking seasons. The temperature drops further during the night and morning.

  • You will get WiFi in villages at lower elevations. Get a tourist sim to use data during the trek. It is a much better and more efficient option. Do note that not all parts of the trail have a network.

  • Our 15 days on Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake do not include an excursion to Poon Hill. However, you can customize the itinerary if you wish to add Poon Hill to your journey.

Price Per PersonUS$1095(All-inclusive price)
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  • Our Location Thamel, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal

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