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Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake-16 Days

  • Destination

    Nepal, Annapurna Region

  • Region

    Annapurna Region

  • Trip Grade

    Grade 3: Hard/challenging

  • Accommodation

    Tea House

  • Total Distance

    160–260km /100-161miles

  • Start / End Point

    Kathmandu/Kathmandu

  • Durations

    16 Days

  • Max. Altitude

    5,416m at Thorung la high pass

  • Meals Included

    Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

  • Group Size

    above 1 pax

  • Best Season

    All season

  • Activity per day

    Approx. 4-6 hrs walking

  • Transportation

    Kathmandu to Jagat private Jeep, & Muktinath to Tatopani by Public transportation, Birethanti to Pokhara by private transportation, Pokhara to Kathmandu by Private Jeep


Around Annapurna with Tilicho Lake
This is one of the most rewarding treks in the Annapurna region that lets you experience Himalayan flora and fauna, beautiful landscapes, holy temples & monasteries, stunning waterfalls, varied climate regions, diverse culture, high passes, deep gorges, and the Tilicho Lake (one of the world’s highest lakes).

Your Annapurna Circuit With Tilicho Lake Trekking starts with an early morning Privte Jeep ride from Kathmandu to Jagat while enjoying the views of beautiful villages, terraced farms, and mountain region views.

The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek starts from Jagat (1,300m/4,265ft) and ends at Dharapani (1,860m/6,200ft) on the second day. The third trek starts from Dharapani to Chame (2,610m/8,890ft) – the headquarters of the Manang district. From the way, you will get to enjoy incredible views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna III. After spending a night at Chame, you will head to Pisang (3,115m/10,200ft), through the trial that lets us see the Paungda Danda Rock face.

The fifth-day Tilicho Lake and Annapurna Circuit trek journey takes us from Pisang to Manang (3,540m/11,300ft). From the path, you will see Tibetan-style settlements and giant high peaks, including Gangapurna, Tilicho, and Pisang Peak. You will spend a day in Manang acclimatizing and then head to Siri Kharka (4,060m/13,320ft) the next day.
On our eighth day, from Siri Kharka, you will trek to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m/13,583ft) and spend the night there. The next day will be special as you will reach majestic Tilicho Lake, also called “The Great Ice Lake” itself. From Tilicho Lake, you can enjoy the fantastic views of pristine lake water and superb snow-capped high mountains that are incomparable to anywhere in the world. Tilicho Himal, Annapurna Range, and Nilgiri Himal surround Tilicho Lake as if they are hiding nature’s gems. After reaching Tilicho Lake, you will return to Siri Kharka for the night.

The following morning you will wake up at Siri Kharka and start the trek to Yak Kharka (4,060m/13,020ft) – the destination for this day. Yak Kharka is famous for its blue sheep, and if the time is right, you can even see a snow leopard. You will spend a night at Yak Kharka, and on our eleventh day, you will reach Thorong Phedi – a small settlement optimally placed for a successful Thorong La Hi-Pass (5,416 m/17,756 ft) crossing. If the situation is favorable at Thorong Phedi, we might trek to High Camp for the night.
To prepare for the Thorong La Hi-Pass crossing, we wake up early at Thorong Phedi and push against the icy air and high-altitude fatigue to reach Thorong La Pass. From the Thorong La Pass, you will see the Himalayas stretch up north to Tibet and the Annapurna mountains to your south. You will cross the Thorong La Pass and descend to Muktinath(3,760m/12,623ft) – a Buddhist and Hindu holy site. By the time you reach Muktinath, you will be tired so we will be spending the night at Muktinath.

After a night at Muktinath, we will take local transport to Tatopani (1,200m/3,940ft). On the way, you will pass Jomsom – a bustling market in this region. Tatopani means hot water in Nepali, and at Tatopani, you will get a chance to dip in the naturally warm water.

Another popular destination for this trek is the viewpoint – Poon Hill (3,210m/10,525 ft), but to get to Poon Hill, you have to start at Tatopani and head to Ghorepani through Sikha and Chitre village. You will stay at the Ghorepani for the night, and the following morning, head to Poon Hill to see the dawn breaking at the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs. After seeing the early sunrise from Poon Hill and returning, we will drive you to Pokhara – the tourist capital of Nepal. In Pokhara, you will be staying at a hotel with all the modern amenities.

On the sixteenth day, you will take a Privte Jeep to Kathmandu, where your Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake will end. But by then, the experiences you will have gained on this trek, and the determination that helped you succeed will influence how you think for years to come.

 

Highlights

  • Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meter
  • Tilicho Lake (4,949m) - one of the highest lakes in the world
  • Stunning journey to Tilicho Lake, the highest lake in the world at 4920 meters
  • Spectacular views of Mt. Annapurna, Thorung Peak, Nilgiri, Chulu West and East, Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV
  • Discover the Annapurna massif's cultural and natural splendor.
  • Blue sheep at Yak Kharka
  • Magnificent lakes, glaciers, gorges, and waterfalls
  • Get amazed while crossing the world's largest pass, Thorong-La (5416 meters)
  • Manang district and embrace the beauty of the place
  • Barge Monastery - the largest monastery in the Manang district
  • During the Annapurna Circuit Trek featuring Tilicho Lake, encounter gorgeous lakes, gorges, glaciers, and waterfalls.
  • Witness the magnificent views of Mt. Annapurna, Thorung Peak, Nilgiri, Chulu, Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal, and Annapurna.
  • During the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho and Poonhill, encounter gorgeous lakes, gorges, glaciers, and waterfalls.
  • Explore the Annapurna region's charming landscapes, Rhododendron forests, and small settlements of Gurung People, while exploring Ghorepani and Poonhill
  • Views of the Annapurna mountain range and other snow-capped summits will astound you.
  • Admire magnificent sunrises across the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna mountains from Poonhill.
  • Muktinath - a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists
  • Visit the 108 stone faucets at the Muktinath Temple, which is revered by both Hindus and Buddhists
  • Relaxing in Tatopani hot springs
  • Get mesmerized by watching the amazing Narchyang waterfall on the route to Tatopani from Ghasa
  • The most beautiful vistas of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapucche, Hiunchuli, Nilgiri, and Mardi
  • The stunning villages of Ghorepani, Nangethanti, Ulleri, and Tikhedhunga will enchant you.
  • Get excellent hospitality from the natives and forget all your fatigue and walking ache.
  • Enjoy your quality time at the picturesque Phewa Lake in Pokhara.
  • The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is a popular Himalayan trek offering stunning mountain views, diverse landscapes, and cultural experiences. Highlights include visiting Tilicho Lake, crossing the Thorong La Pass, exploring scenic villages, and witnessing the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
  • Sunrise at Poon Hill: A popular viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
  • Scenic Villages: Exploring villages like Manang, Pisang, and Chame, which showcase local culture and traditions.

Outline Itinerary

  • Day1: Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat (1,300m). Drive time 10 hrs
  • Day2: Trek from Jagat to Dharapani (1,860m). Trek time 6 hrs
  • Day3: Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2,610m). Trek time 6 hrs
  • Day4: Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang (3,300m). Trek time 6 hrs
  • Day5: Trek from Pisang to Manang (3,540m). Trek time 6 hrs
  • Day6: Rest and Acclimatization day at Manang.
  • Day7: Trek from Manang to Siri Kharka (4,060m). Trek time 5hrs
  • Day8: Trek from Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m). Trek time 5hrs
  • Day9: Visit Tilicho Lake (4,920m / 16,138ft) then back to Siri Kharka (4,060m / 13,320ft) Trek time 8 hrs
  • Day10: Trek from Siri Kharka via Yak Kharka to Ledar (4,250m). Trek time 6 hrs
  • Day11: Trek from Ledar (4,250m/13,943ft) to Thorong High Camp (4,925m/16,158ft) Tre time 6 hrs
  • Day12: Trek from Thorong High Camp (4,925m/16,158 ft) to Muktinath Temple (3,760m / 12,623ft) via Thorong La High Pass (5,416m / 17,756ft) Trek time 10 hrs
  • Day13: Drive from Muktinath (3,760m / 12,623ft) via Jomsom to Tatopani (1,200m / 3,940ft)
  • Day14: Trek from Tatopani (1200m / 3,940ft) to Ghorepani (2,860m / 9,385ft) trek time 9 hrs
  • Day15: Early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210m / 10,525ft), trek to Birethanti (1,039m / 3,250ft)- then drive to Pokhara via Nayapul
  • Day16: Drive from Pokhara (820m / 2,690ft ) to Kathmandu (1,350m / 4,450ft). Drive 7 hrs

Cost Includes

  • Hotel in Kathmandu with 3 Stars Bed & Breakfast.
  • Hotel in Pokhara 3 star bed & breakfast 1 night
  • Your daily breakfast, lunch, dinner- during the trek as per itinerary.
  • One experience English speaking trekking guide & one porter for each two tourist.
  • Transportation from Kathmandu to Jagat trekking starting point by private jeep or Scorpio & Pokhara to Kathmandu by private jeep your trekking ending point.
  • Annapurna Conservation Permit.
  • Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS).
  • Insurance for Guide & Porters.
  • All accommodation During the Trek Available Lodge /Tea Houses. (run by Nepali families).
  • Airport - Hotel - Airport transfer.
  • Muktinath to Tatopani to Pokhara by Local jeep.
  • Our service charge.
  • Farewell Dinner typical Nepali cultural dance program.

Cost does not Include

  • Nepal visa which is open arrival in Kathmandu per person.
  • Personal Equipment for Trekking: sleeping bag, down jacket, Trekking shoes, gloves, sunscreen, sun glass, hat. Trekking stick, some pair socks, hiking shirt , hiking pant.
  • Personal Insurance for travel to Nepal covers helicopter rescue, accidents
  • Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Emergency Rescue evacuation.
  • Kathmandu sightseeing entrance fee.
  • Tipping (Tips) for guide & porter according to your main interest.
  • All the alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. (Tea, coffee, mineral water, hot water, soup)
  • Sweet things like chocolate and desert.
  • Hot shower during the trekking.
  • Personal expenses, personal hygiene.
  • Laundry, internet call, phone.

What is special about Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake?

Annapurna with Tilicho Lake is a beautiful trek combination in the Annapurna region. The Tilicho Lake (4,919m / 16,138ft), one of the world’s highest lakes, and Thoronga La Pass (5,416m/17769ft) are two major highlights of this trek.

Annapurna Circuit hike with Tilicho Lake trek allows you to see more than a dozen of glorious mountains – Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Mt. Annapurna I (8,091m), Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m), Mt. Annapurna II (7,937 m), Mt. Annapurna III (7,555m), Mt. Annapurna IV (7,525m), Mt. Annapurna south (7,219m), Mt. Nilgiri (7,041m), Mt. Fishtail also called Mt. Machhapuchhare (6,998m), Mt. Hiunchuli (6,441m), Mt. Lamjung Himal (6,986m), Tukuche peak (6,920m), and Tilicho peak (7,134m).


Why Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Annapurna Circuit in Nepal allows you to pass through several climatic regions, and the vegetation changes accordingly. You will pass through paddy fields, subtropical forests, glacial zones, and rural farmlands. In the highlands, you might encounter high-altitude animals, such as blue sheep, snow leopards, and yaks. The natural hot springs bring diverse people to enjoy the warm baths together. Similarly, Muktinath Temple, as a sacred site between Hindus and Buddhists, brings two religions together.

Another vital part of Annapurna Circuit trekking is Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17769ft), one of the highest passes in the world. The views from the Thorong La Pass are mind-blowing. The major part of Annapurna Circuit’s difficulty is crossing the Thorong La Pass.


Annapurna with Tilicho Lake Trek Gears.

Depending on the trekking season, you must adjust your clothing and equipment. However, is a list of items you need during the trek. We urge you to bring only the essentials. Please note that the luggage weight limit per trekker is 9 kg, and you will be sharing a porter with another fellow trekker. Hence, we advise you to find a fellow trekker and pack your things in a duffle bag with a capacity of over sixty liters.

Head
Sun hat (wide-brimmed)
Beanie (for warmth)
Buff or neck gaiter (for sun protection and warmth)
Lightweight headlamp (with adjustable brightness)
High SPF sunscreen
Lip balm with SPF
Sunglasses with UV protection
Face wipes

Upper Body
Moisture-wicking t-shirts (short and long sleeves)
Thermal base layer (for colder conditions)
Fleece jacket and down jacket **
Lightweight puffy jacket (for extra warmth)
Waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
Raincoat
Lightweight, breathable long-sleeve shirt
Polypropylene underwear (four)

Hands
Insulated gloves or mittens (for cold weather)
Waterproof gloves (for wet conditions)

Lower body
Quick-drying pants/trousers (convertible or full-length)
Insulated pants (for colder conditions)
Lightweight cotton pants
Thermal leggings or long underwear (for colder weather)
Two pairs of thermal/trekking trousers (pants)

Footwear
Thick Wool or synthetic moisture-wicking socks (4 pairs)
Waterproof, ankle-supportive broken-in full hiking boots (with good traction)
Sandals (for camp use or river crossings)
Gaiters (for protection against mud, water, and debris)
Crampons/spike.

Toiletries
Biodegradable bar soap
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Medium-size drying towel
Wet wipes or hand sanitizers
Toilet paper (In a Ziplock bag)
Feminine hygiene products
Travel-sized shampoo
Nail clippers
Small mirror

Backpacks
Duffle bag (capacity of over 60 liters) for porters** (One duffle bag for two trekkers).
Backpack or daypack (capacity 20-30 liters) for yourself.

Personal accessories
Adjustable and lightweight poles (preferably collapsible)
Water bottle or bladder with a capacity of at least 2 liters (insulated for cold weather)
Water purification system (tablets, filter, or UV purifier)
Sleeping bag (-10 to -15 degrees is the best) **

Extra items
Camera/smartphone (extra memory cards and batteries)
Extra batteries or rechargeable power bank (for charging devices)
Two-pin charging plug
Basic first aid supplies (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, Diamox)
Personal medications (inhalers, allergy meds, etc.)
Few passport-size photos
Passport photocopies
Notebook and pen
Binoculars
Swiss army knife or multi-tool (with scissors, can opener, etc.
**We can provide you with a (used, nonwaterproof) duffle bag, (used) down jacket, and (used) sleeping bag if you do not have your own.


Electricity and Water.

Throughout the Annapurna Trek with Tilicho Lake trek regions, you will get electricity for a camera or mobile phone recharge at an extra cost. Similarly, you can buy packed mineral water from local lodges or en route shops or fill your water bottle with boiled water at an extra cost. Discovery World Trekking can provide you with pills to make water drinkable. You should not drink water from the rivers, taps, or wells in trekking regions because the water may not be drinkable.


Communication

During the Annapurna with Tilicho Lake Trek, you can use internet service on lodges for an extra charge. However, at high altitudes, we will use a phone to communicate. Good Karmaa Trekking office will remain in contact with all trek groups at least once via team leader for safety. You can easily buy a local sim card in Kathmandu for better connectivity. However, mobile signals at high altitudes may not be strong enough. Wi-Fi is available in trek lodges for an extra cost.


Trek season

The weather is decisive for the Annapurna with the Tilicho Lake trek. Trekking is possible throughout the year, but some seasons are better. Spring and autumn seasons with clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and no rain or clouds allow spectacular views. Good Karma Trekking organizes Annapurna Trek with Tilicho Lake throughout the year.

The trek is challenging in winter due to cold temperatures and snowfalls in high altitudes. Similarly, Nepal experiences monsoons during summer, so the trails can be slippery. However, some trekkers are attracted to challenges and enjoy their Annapurna Circuit Trip in summer and winter. The exact temperature and weather conditions change from place to place, but here is a brief description of the weather in high elevations in the Annapurna Trekking regions.

March to May (Spring): Spring is a perfect time for Annapurna Trek with Tilicho Lake as the temperature is mild, the rainfall is low, and the skies are clear that allow great views. Thousands of people trek in the Annapurna region during this time. The mean daily temperature in the high elevation ranges from 8°C to 0°C. Lower regions are even warmer, making it comfortable for the trek.

June to August (Summer): June to August is a summer season in Nepal, but summer coincides with the monsoon (rainy season). The temperature is quite high and very favorable, but still, the trails will be wet and slippery.

Monsoon begins at the end of June and lasts till the second week of August. At high elevations, the temperature ranges from 10°C to 23°C during the day, but nights are cooler at 5 to 10°C. Even in this season, the mornings are generally cloud-free, but clouds appear in the afternoon and retreat at night. Because of the rain, various plants bloom, and the whole environment in the trekking region looks green and lovely.

June to August (Summer): June to August is a summer season in Nepal, but summer coincides with the monsoon (rainy season). The temperature is quite high and very favorable, but still, the trails will be wet and slippery.

Monsoon begins at the end of June and lasts till the second week of August. At high elevations, the temperature ranges from 10°C to 23°C during the day, but nights are cooler at 5 to 10°C. Even in this season, the mornings are generally cloud-free, but clouds appear in the afternoon and retreat at night. Because of the rain, various plants bloom, and the whole environment in the trekking region looks green and lovely.

September to November (Autumn): Autumn (September, October, and November) attracts travelers to Annapurna Circuit with the Tilicho Lake trek. Moderate temperatures, mild wind, clear skies, and low precipitation make autumn a wonderful trekking season. The monsoon will be over by early September, and the weather ranges from mild to warm days. Daytime temperatures, at high altitudes, can reach up to 20°C. The nights are cooler with temperatures around 5°C.

During this season, the greens that grew during the monsoon fade to golden/amber, providing a spectacular contrast against the crystal blue skies. The fields are full of ripening grains, the environment is clean, and the lowlands are lush. Moreover, the two biggest Hindu festivals – Dashain and Tihar – also fall during this season.

December to February (Winter): Winter (December – February) Annapurna with Tilicho Lake treks are moderately popular. During this time, high altitudes at Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake can get as cold as -10°C.

The coldest time is from late December through early February. After late February, the temperature gradually rises to -5°C. Despite being cold, the skies during this season are usually clear. Mountain views are at their best, and the trails are the least busy. New trekkers might find the path challenging, but experienced trekkers can enjoy their trek to the fullest.

The weather in the Himalayas is unpredictable and changes quickly. The day temperatures can be vastly different than night temperatures.


Trek Difficulty

Annapurna Trek with Tilicho Lake hike is a challenging trek. The hiking generally lasts for 4 to 7 hrs a day, with regular breaks to soak in the stunning mountain views. Trek routes on Annapurna involve long climbs, steep descents, and straightforward roads. Past hiking experience would be an added advantage, but no technical experience and skills are necessary.

Trekkers who can hike reasonably for 5 to 6 hours a day can complete the Annapurna Trek with Tilicho Lake. Please remember that trekking at higher altitudes is more physically demanding than trekking at lower altitudes. Exercising and jogging regularly for a couple of weeks before the trip enhances your stamina, and the fitter you are, the more enjoyable your trekking experience will be. To join the Annapurna circuit trek with Tilicho Lake, you must be healthy with normal physical fitness and a good dose of positive attitude, self-confidence, and determination.


Detail Itinerary

Day1: Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat (1,300m). Drive time 10 hrs

Early morning we drive private Jeep from Kathmandu for about 8-9 hours (175 km) to Jagat. On the way, you can see beautiful villages, farms, fast-flowing rivers, and glimpses of mountain ranges.
  • Altitude:1,300m/4,265ft
  • Duration:(175km / 108miles) 9-10 hrs
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Day2: Trek from Jagat to Dharapani (1,860m). Trek time 6 hrs

After breakfast, we begin the 2nd day of our trip. First, we leave Jagat, cross a suspension bridge, and reach Tal Village. At Tal, you can witness several waterfalls forming a river by the sandy beaches. However, we will continue the journey that takes us through barley, rice, and potato fields leading us to Kodo – one of the biggest villages in Manang Valley. But, we will continue our trek, and after crossing a suspension bridge, we climb to stone Kani to finally reach Dharapani, where we will be spending the night.
  • Altitude:1,860m/6,200ft
  • Duration:5 hrs
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Day3: Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2,610m). Trek time 6 hrs

Today’s trek takes us through a forest with pine, fir, oak, and maple trees, eventually leading us to Chame, the district headquarters of Manang district. You will be surrounded by green forests, and above, you’ll see remarkable views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV (7,525m). We will also stop by small hot springs to relax for a while, and if you wish, you can take a dip in these hot springs.
  • Altitude:2,610m/ 8,890ft
  • Duration:6 hrs
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Day4: Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang (3,300m). Trek time 6 hrs

We walk through a steep and narrow valley to catch the views of Paungda Danda Rock Face – a curved rock face rising 1500m from the Marshyandi River. From here, you will also see clear views of Annapurna II in the south and Pisang Peak in the northeast. After viewing the Paungda Danda Rock Face, we descend to the Manang Valley floor, eventually reaching Pisang – our destination for the day.
  • Altitude:3300m/10826ft
  • Duration:6 hr
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Day5: Trek from Pisang to Manang (3,540m). Trek time 6 hrs

We leave Pisang behind and trek on the upper trails of Pisang via Geru. This path offers outstanding north face views of Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Tilicho, and Pisang Peak. Since we are ascending, you will feel the air turn cold, dry, and harsh. Even in this harsh environment, you will find Tibetan-style settlements, and we will not miss visiting the Barge Monastery – the largest monastery in Manang.
  • Altitude:3,540m /11,300ft
  • Duration:6 hrs
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Day6: Rest and Acclimatization day at Manang.

By reaching Manang, we will have gained a lot of elevation, and our body needs time to adjust to high altitudes, so we will stop at Manang for a day. We will use this day to explore Manang. In the early morning, we hike up to Gangapurna Lake / Ice Lake, and during the day, we will enjoy the outstanding views of Annapurna III, Tilicho, Pisang, and Chulu Peaks. Of course, you can also explore the Manang village. Most trekkers visit the Himalayan Rescue Association in Vraga village to learn about Acute Mountain Sickness, its symptoms, and ways to prevent it.

Day7: Trek from Manang to Siri Kharka (4,060m). Trek time 5hrs

The trek from Manang to Siri Kharka is an easier one. We take the upper route that leads down to a river, which we will cross, and then continue on a path that takes us through the coniferous forests. After walking for about three hours, we reach Tibetan settlement Khangsar, but we will continue our journey forward to reach Shiri Kharka. On the trails, we will get to see gorgeous views of Gungang Himal and Mt.Chulu.
  • Altitude:4,060m/13,320ft
  • Duration:5 hr
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Day8: Trek from Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m). Trek time 5hrs

On our eighth day, we will leave Siri Kharka in the morning and trek towards Tilicho Base Camp. The path should be easy, but it passes through landslide-prone areas. From the trails, we get to enjoy the impressive rock formations along with magnificent snow peaks – including Tilicho Peak.
  • Altitude:4,150m /13,583ft
  • Duration:5 hr
  • Accommodation:Tea housse

Day9: Visit Tilicho Lake (4,920m / 16,138ft) then back to Siri Kharka (4,060m / 13,320ft) Trek time 8 hrs

Tilicho Lake 4,920m / 16,138ft This is one of the special days of the trek as we will be viewing Tilicho Lake itself. But we start our day early in the morning at Tilicho Base Camp to avoid afternoon wind. The path is quite steep, and after laboring for two to three hours, we will reach Tilicho Lake – one of the highest lakes in the world. A well-known French expedition team referred to Tilicho Lake as The Great Ice Lake. Tilicho lake sits surrounded by the majestic peaks – Tilicho Himal, Annapurna Range, and Nilgiri Himal. After enjoying the views of Tilicho Lake, we retrace our path back to Siri Kharka, where we will be spending our night.
  • Altitude:4060m/13320 ft
  • Duration:8 hr
  • Accommodation:Tea House

Day10: Trek from Siri Kharka via Yak Kharka to Ledar (4,250m). Trek time 6 hrs

From Siri Kharka, we descend to the uninhabited Khangsar Village. On the way, we pass Tare Gumba, a thousand-year-old monastery, but our journey continues following a rock wall that takes us out of Khangsar and leads us to Thorong Khola Valley and finally to Yak Kharka. From Yak Kharka, you can get glorious views of the Annapurna mountain ranges. If lucky, you may see blue sheep or even a snow leopard. Moving forward, you will cross a historic Mani wall just before arriving at Ledar.
  • Altitude:4,250m/13,943ft
  • Duration:5 hr
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Day11: Trek from Ledar (4,250m/13,943ft) to Thorong High Camp (4,925m/16,158ft) Tre time 6 hrs

You will walk uphill from Ledar to reach Thorong High Camp. Thorong High Camp is the last hamlet before the Thorong La Pass. While walking uphill, you will see mesmerizing views of several mountains – including Gudang, Syagang, Khatungkan, and Thorong Peak.
  • Altitude:4,925 m/16,158 ft
  • Duration:5 hr
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Day12: Trek from Thorong High Camp (4,925m/16,158 ft) to Muktinath Temple (3,760m / 12,623ft) via Thorong La High Pass (5,416m / 17,756ft) Trek time 10 hrs

Thorong La High Pass (5,416m / 17,756ft) Today’s trek will be the most challenging part of this trip, as we will be crossing Thorong La Pass – one of the highest passes in the world. It is also the highest point of the trek. To avoid the afternoon wind, we wake up at Thorong Phedi at 3 am and push ourselves against high altitude and icy air. When you reach the Thorong La Pass, just by seeing the incredible scenery, you will feel that nature has paid back your efforts handsomely. From here, you can see the Himalayan peaks extending to Tibet in the north, and if you look back, you will see Annapurna standing proud and tall. We descend from Thorong La Pass to reach Muktinath – a sacred site for Hindus and Buddhists. The Buddhist name for Muktinath is Chumig Ghasa, which means Hundred Waters in Tibetan. And, of course, Muktinath hosts 108 stone sprouts through which flows the icy cold water of Kali Gandaki. In addition to the water sprouts, you will also see the eternal flame at Muktinath, which has been burning there for more than 2000 years.
  • Altitude:3760m/12337ft
  • Duration:8 to 9hr
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Day13: Drive from Muktinath (3,760m / 12,623ft) via Jomsom to Tatopani (1,200m / 3,940ft)

Muktinath to Tatopani drive 6 hrs After a holy visit to Muktinath Temple, we continue our journey, this time in a local Jeep takes us to Tatopani. The drive is pretty rough, full of twists and turns, in a region that is home to the world’s deepest gorges. Our path will take us through the bustling Jomsom Bazaar and finally to Tatopani – known for natural hot springs. Before the night sets in, it would make great sense to enjoy a bath in these hot springs.
  • Altitude:1,200m /3,940ft
  • Duration:6 hr
  • Accommodation:Tea house

Day14: Trek from Tatopani (1200m / 3,940ft) to Ghorepani (2,860m / 9,385ft) trek time 9 hrs

On our fourteenth day, we ascend to Ghorepani through the ethnic Sikha and Chitre villages. We will be passing through the lush rhododendron, birch, and magnolia forests to reach Ghorepani, which sits on top of a ridge. During the blooming season, the rhododendrons add pink and bright red colors to the entire forest.
  • Altitude:2,860m / 9,385ft
  • Duration:9 hr
  • Accommodation:TeaHouse

Day15: Early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210m / 10,525ft), trek to Birethanti (1,039m / 3,250ft)- then drive to Pokhara via Nayapul

Poon Hill (3,210m / 10,525ft) Trek time 6hrs/Drive 2 hrs Poon Hill is one of the most famous viewpoints in the world. So, early in the morning, we wake up at Ghorepani and climb up a steep trail for about an hour to see the magnificent views of dawn breaking on Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. From here, you will also see Mustang and Pokhara in addition to over 20 high mountains. Poon Hill, with its glorious beauty, provides a favorite venue for photographers, and we will not miss the chance of clicking some pictures here. After spending some time at Poon Hill, we will descend to Birethanti, from where we will take a private jeep to Pokhara via Nayapul.
  • Altitude:822m/2696ft
  • Duration:8 hr
  • Accommodation:Hotel

Day16: Drive from Pokhara (820m / 2,690ft ) to Kathmandu (1,350m / 4,450ft). Drive 7 hrs

On our sixteenth day, after breakfast, we will take a private jeepfrom Pokhara to Kathmandu. You may also choose to return by a 25-minute flight (not included in the package) for an extra cost. Our trek package completes at Kathmandu. Good Karma Trekking will also host a farewell dinner at Kathmandu later in the day. We hope, by completing this trek, you will have formed lifelong memories.
  • Altitude:1400m/4593ft
  • Duration:7 hr
  • Accommodation:Hotel

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