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Destination
Nepal, Annapurna Region
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Region
Annapurna Region
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Trip Grade
Grade 3: Hard/challenging
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Accommodation
Tea House
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Total Distance
160–260km /100-161miles
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Start / End Point
Kathmandu/Kathmandu
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Durations
16 Days
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Max. Altitude
5,416m at Thorung la high pass
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Meals Included
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
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Group Size
above 1 pax
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Best Season
All season
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Activity per day
Approx. 4-6 hrs walking
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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
- 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
- Altitude:1,860m/6,200ft
- Duration:5 hrs
- Accommodation:Tea House
Day3: Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2,610m). Trek time 6 hrs
- Altitude:2,610m/ 8,890ft
- Duration:6 hrs
- Accommodation:Tea House
Day4: Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang (3,300m). Trek time 6 hrs
- Altitude:3300m/10826ft
- Duration:6 hr
- Accommodation:Tea house
Day5: Trek from Pisang to Manang (3,540m). Trek time 6 hrs
- Altitude:3,540m /11,300ft
- Duration:6 hrs
- Accommodation:Tea House
Day6: Rest and Acclimatization day at Manang.
Day7: Trek from Manang to Siri Kharka (4,060m). Trek time 5hrs
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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)
- 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
- 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
- Altitude:822m/2696ft
- Duration:8 hr
- Accommodation:Hotel
Day16: Drive from Pokhara (820m / 2,690ft ) to Kathmandu (1,350m / 4,450ft). Drive 7 hrs
- Altitude:1400m/4593ft
- Duration:7 hr
- Accommodation:Hotel
Most Common FAQs
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