Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake

5.00/5 from 480 reviews

Experience the combination of two iconic treks, the Classic Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake, in a seamless 17-day journey guided by the Nepal Hiking Team. Explore captivating landscapes and cultural riches among the Himalayas.

At a Glance
  • DestinationNepal
  • Duration16 days
  • Trip DifficultyStrenuous
  • ActivitiesTrekking
  • AccommodationHotel/Lodges
  • MealsAs per itinerary
  • Max. Elevation5416m.
  • Group SizeMin. 2 Pax

Regarding Driving to/from Kathmamdu

Lately, there has been extensive road construction (KATHMANDU TO POKHARA )on Prithvi Highway, causing traffic congestion and air pollution. The journey that used to take around 6-7 hours now takes roughly 8-9 hours. We appreciate your patience.

Trip Overview

Do you want to witness the spectacular views of Annapurna Lake and visit the beautiful Tilicho Lake? If you wish, you can look at the Classic Annapurna Circuit with the Tilicho Lake trekking package. The package is attractive, and the adventurer can trek and explore the trip beautifully.

The trek follows an ancient route that was embarked on by travelers all around the world. The Tilicho Lake is visited by many and has a remarkable history. Significantly, the Lake holds religious value for the Hindus. In the Ramayana, the holy book of the Hindus, it is written that a sacred sage, Kak Bhusundi, shared the events of Ramayana with Garuda, the King of Birds. Hence, the holy is scared and regarded highly by all.

We would love to welcome you to Tilicho Lake and witness the beauty with your eyes. We have a fantastic team that includes trekking leaders and guides. They are eager to guide you and accompany you on this splendid trek. So why wait? Please send us an inquiry, pack your bags, and let's get ready for an adventure!

Main  Highlights of Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake

  • Travel from Kathmandu to Dharapani on a beautiful route through picturesque landscapes and charming villages.
  • Explore the diverse plant and animal life in the Annapurna Conservation Area.
  • Keep an eye out for rare creatures such as snow leopards and blue sheep – you might be lucky enough to spot one!
  • While trekking, take magnificent views of Pisang Peak and Annapurna II.
  • Manang's architectural marvel – the Barge Monastery, is a must-see with its exquisite Buddhist design.
  • Sit among monks during prayer sessions at this site for a profound spiritual experience.
  • From Siri Kharka, look at panoramic vistas extending all the way from Gungang Himal across Mount Chulu.
  • Do not miss taking stunning photos of Tilicho Lake when you hike there.
  • Visit the highest lake in the world, located at a high altitude in Nepal, where you can enjoy peace and tranquility while walking around it.
  • Experience the holy Muktinath Temple - a Hindu pilgrimage site.
  • Climb to the top of Poon Hill and treat yourself to breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and Annapurna ranges.

Route Overview

Before you begin the journey, we'd like to give you a route overview of the Classic Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake.

Firstly, the trip begins upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport. Staff will greet you and escort you to the hotel. Then, we'll drive to Dharapani and start our trek to Chame. From there, we'll hike to Pisang, Manang via Ghyaru, Ngawal, and Mungji. At Managa, a day is set aside for acclimatization to the higher altitude. The hike then continues to Siri Kharka and finally to Tilicho Base Camp. Later, we'll visit Tilicho Lake and descend to Siri Kharka, Yak Kharka, and Thorong Phedi.

From Thorong Phedi, we'll ascend to Thorong La Pass and then descend to Muktinath. After spending a night there, we'll drive back to Tatopani to enjoy a relaxing dip in the hot spring. The hike continues to Ghorepani, followed by a morning hike to the Poon Hill viewpoint. After visiting Poonhill, we will return to Ghorepani. Then, we trek down to Ulleri, catching a jeep to Pokhara.

We'll again take a drive back to Kathmandu and then bid farewell.

What is the best time to Go?

The Classic Annapurna circuit with Tilicho Lake is done throughout the year, but spring and autumn are the best times.

Spring (March, April & May) is one of the most popular times to go on this trip. You’ll witness the wildflowers in full bloom. It’s the best time to experience nature at its best and is a perfect moment to see local farming communities in full swing.

Autumn (September, October, and November) is another best time to trek. It offers perfect weather and a temperate climate. During this time, you can also witness Mount Annapurna seamlessly, with clear skies and stunning panoramas.

You can also go on this trek during the summer. If you want to see greenery and wildflowers in their natural form, this might be the perfect time for you. The season brings mild temperatures during the day, making it ideal for trekking.

How Hard is the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek?

Another question that may arise is how challenging the trek is. The Classic Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake is an easy-to-moderate trek. The route will follow uphill and downhill terrains. Hence, having a good fitness level for this trek would be best.

Secondly, let us talk about elevation. The highest elevation point that you'll reach on this trek is 4,949M. At this level of altitude, there is less chance of altitude sickness. If you acclimatize correctly to the altitude, you won't face any problems.

Our trekking guides are trained professionals with many years of experience in the field. They'll guide you and provide instructions regarding your walking pace and breathing pattern. Moreover, they'll also be carrying a first-aid kit with all the necessary meditations for you. Hence, you can be assured of your health and safety.

Do you have other trips?

We understand that choosing a trekking package can be overwhelming. If you are still looking for more packages in the Annapurna region, please consider alternative treks.

First of all, we would like to recommend Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek. It is for those who are up for a challenging trek.

Next, we've got the Annapurna Circuit Trek consisting of a 14-day trek. It follows the same route, but instead of going to Ghorepani, it directly reaches Jomsom and then to Pokhara.

Lastly, do have a look at the Annapurna Circuit Short Trek. In this short trek, we'll follow the same route and, in the end, drive directly from Muktinath to Jomsom without halting at Muktinath for the night. This is perfect for those who have limited time.

Nevertheless, we want you to know that whichever package you choose, we'll happily organize it.

Detail Itinerary

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    Upon your arrival, you will be welcomed by one of the Nepal Hiking Team's representatives. He will help you get transferred to your hotel. You will also be given further details about the plans and programs for the trip. Since no other planned activities are today, you may relax at the hotel.

    • Overnight stay at Hotel.

      Kathmandu, you will have a scenic but very long drive to Dharapani. The road is laden with beautiful natural sceneries, and you will experience the quintessence of Nepal's countryside. Crossing forests and clearings, you will reach Dharapani after passing several rural villages on the way. It is a great way to quickly glimpse the local people who reside in natural villages away from the bustling capital.

      • Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Dharapani.
      • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

        The trail climbs along the mule track into a fir forest and then follows the river alongside the higher oak and maple trees. On the way, you will be awestruck by spectacular views of major Himalayan peaks.

        • Overnight at Guesthouse.
        • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included.

         

          Our trail now follows a narrow, steep river valley winding through deep woodland. The view of Pisang Peak and Annapurna II on our way is truly unique.

          • Overnight at Guesthouse:
          • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included.

            Today we will take the upper route to Manang via Ghyaru – Ngawal – Mungji. We will experience more breathtaking scenery as the towering, majestic peaks overwhelm our senses with panoramic views of Annapurna, Pisang Peak, and several others. We will notice a change in the landscape and vegetation from today. The cold, dry climate creates a much harsher environment. Our short visit to Barge Monastery, the largest in the entire district of Manang, will be memorable.

            • Overnight at Guesthouse
            • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

             

              This day is set aside for acclimatization to the higher altitude. We'll spend our time visiting the monastery with a side trip to Gangapurna Lake. We can also visit the local villages and the Himalayan Rescue Association Clinic.

              • Overnight at Guesthouse.
              • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included.

                From Manang, we will head out through the western gates and follow the path down to the river. Crossing the river, we will continue walking on its southern side through coniferous forests. After reaching the Kangsar Village, we will walk towards Siri Kharka and pass a monastery. The uphill walk could be tiring, but we will have the Gungang Himal and Mount Chulu in the backdrop to keep us company.

                • Overnight at Guesthouse.
                • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included.

                  While the path from Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp is relatively steep and physically strenuous, it could be exhausting as we will have to walk on narrow paths in a loose scree and landslide-prone area. Our trail goes through the middle of the landslide area, where we can see impressive rock formations along the trail. Overnight stay at the Tilicho Base Camp.

                  • Overnight at Guesthouse.
                  • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included.

                    Our trail steadily climbs along the side of the mountain after the challenging ascent until we reach the watershed. Along the way, we can witness yaks and deer grazing. Across the mountain is the magnificent Tilicho Lake located at the bottom of the north face of Tilicho Peak.

                    We will eventually backtrack to Tilicho Lake Base Camp and proceed to Siri Kharka.

                    • Overnight at Guesthouse.
                    • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included.

                     

                      We will leave Siri Kharka and descend towards the Khangsar Village today. On the way, we will pass Tare Gumba- a thousand-year-old monastery that is very important to the local people there. Upon reaching the Khangsar Village, we can see it is unhabituated except for occasional herders during festival times.

                      Following a rock wall out of Khangsar, we will walk further until we reach a seasonal bridge in the Thorang Khola Valley. After crossing the river, we will ascend to a plateau.

                      Next, we will be walking until we reach Yak Kharka.

                      • Overnight at Guesthouse.
                      • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included.

                        We will make our way to the foot of the pass to Throng Phedi. This is a small yet busy settlement catering to the needs of tired trekkers and climbers. Groups such as ours use this point as a base camp. Some group members might want to hike to the High Camp today to make the next day easier.

                        A tough day is planned for tomorrow, and we stop at Thorong Phedi to sleep soundly (rather than risk a less peaceful night in the higher altitude at High Camp).

                        • Overnight at Thorong Phedi Guesthouse.
                        • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

                          We will make an early start on our climb to the pass. We need to be fresh because the initial ascent stage is very steep. As we approach the peak, the trail becomes slushy from melting snow.

                          After making our way through rocky ridges, we arrive at the top of the pass (5416m). The top offers an indescribably magnificent 360-degree panorama of snow-capped peaks extending northwards into Tibet.

                          Looking back, we can see several peaks of Annapurna, and in front of us is the beautiful gorge of Kali Gandaki. Our trail then descends steeply down to Muktinath (3800m) – an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. It is a special place and home to many ethnic Tibetans and devout Buddhists.

                          • Overnight at Guesthouse.
                          • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included.

                            Take a scenic drive to Tatopani, passing through charming towns like Jomsom, Marpha, Tukuche, and Ghasa. Along the way, you can relish the breathtaking views of the valley, rivers, waterfalls, and villages.

                            Rest and relax in the hot spring.

                            • Overnight at Guesthouse.
                            • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included.

                              After leaving the hot spring, we hike up to Ghorepani and arrive in the afternoon. The journey is quite long and mostly uphill.

                              • Overnight at Guesthouse.
                              • Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included.

                                Hike to Poon Hill (3210m) and trek to Banthanti 4 hours hike and a 2-hour drive to Pokhara.

                                This morning, we will get up early and hike to Poon Hill. You will see superb sunrise and panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Fishtail, and others. After visiting Poonhill, we will return to Ghorepani. Then trek down to Banthanti where we catch a jeep to Pokhara.

                                • Overnight at Hotel
                                • Breakfast and Lunch are included.

                                  Enjoy a scenic drive back to Kathmandu on a tourist bus. Rest comfortably.

                                  • Overnight at the hotel.
                                  • Breakfast included.
                                  Please Note
                                  Instead of driving from Pokhara to Kathmandu, you can opt for domestic flights. The ride usually takes 8-9 hours or more, depending upon the traffic, and can get exhausting. The flight is 25 minutes on-air, and the additional cost is USD 90.00 per person.

                                    Approximately 3 hours before the scheduled flight, a representative from Nepal Hiking Team will take you to the airport.

                                    • Breakfast included.

                                     

                                    Cost Includes

                                    • All airport/hotel transfers by private vehicle
                                    • Two nights’ accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu
                                    • A night's accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star hotel in Pokhara
                                    • Full board meals with tea/coffee (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
                                    • Best available twin-sharing room for accommodation during the trek
                                    • Surface transfer from Kathmandu – Beshisahar by private car and from Beshisahar to Syange by local jeep
                                    • Surface transfer from Pokhara – Kathmandu by tourist bus
                                    • An experienced English-speaking (trekking guide), porter to carry luggage (2 trekkers: 1 porter) including their salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food and lodging
                                    • Down jacket, four seasonal sleeping bags, Nepal Hiking Team duffel bag, t-shirt, cap, and trekking map (down jacket and sleeping bag are to be returned after trip completion)
                                    • All necessary paperwork and permits including the ACAP and others. Please bring 3 passport sized photographs. 
                                    • A comprehensive medical kit
                                    • All government and local taxes

                                    Cost Excludes

                                    • Meals not specified in the 'Meal Inclusions' in the itinerary'
                                    • Travel Insurance
                                    • International airfare
                                    • Nepal entry visa
                                    • Hot showers during the trek
                                    • All kinds of cold drinks e.g. water, coke, fanta, juice, etc.
                                    • Personal trekking equipment
                                    • WI-Fi internet during the trek
                                    • Tips for trekking staff and driver

                                    Cost and Date

                                    Start Dates refer to your arrival date in Nepal. End Dates correspond to your return date from Nepal.

                                    The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake set departure dates are tailored for the group joining option. If the 16 days Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake departure dates don’t fit your schedule, we can include alternative dates that better suit your needs.

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