About Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek 2024

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake is a breathtaking adventure that takes trekkers through the stunning landscapes of the Annapurna in Nepal. The iconic trek combines the grandeur of the Annapurna Circuit with the serene beauty of Tilicho Lake. The Trek offer a diverse and enriching experience for nature enthusiasts and hikers. The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake itinerary typically spans around 15 days, allowing trekkers to immerse themselves in the culture and natural wonders of the region.

Along the way, adventurers traverse lush forests, charming villages, and high mountain passes, with the highlight being the visit to Tilicho Lake. The Trek is one of the highest lakes in the world. Additionally, some variations of this trek incorporate a side trip to Poon Hill, a vantage point renowned for its panoramic sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Whether you're seeking a challenging and rewarding journey or a shorter and more accessible adventure, the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake offers an unforgettable experience for all trekkers.

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek starts right from Besisahar as Annapurna Circuit Trek, which matches along the Marshyangdi River, with great views of Manaslu and Himal Chuli to the east. This magnificent Trekking leads you to the fine village inhabited by an honest diversity of individuals from different ethnic groups, offering spectacular and majestic views of the white Himalayas. Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trekking, Tilicho Lake collects the glacial melt of the whole northern slopes of Annapurna and Thorung Peak. The Trek claimed  absolutely the only lake on the planet. In 2001, Hindu pilgrims from around the world flocked to the lake, convinced it was a holy spot mentioned within the Ramayana - a sacred book of the Hindus. 

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek route offers a combined nature with lush, fertile farming lands, vast stands of undisturbed natural forest, and a mix of various ethnic inhabitants. You've got got got a diverse range of experiences that creates this area one of the foremost satisfying trekking destinations in Nepal. The fact that the central Himalayan range runs south of the border with Tibet means the world's northern parts are within the world. These are considerably drier than the southern slopes of the mountains. If you're thinking of doing the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek, it's worthwhile considering a side trip to Tilicho Lake, 5200m.

Himalayan Asia Treks have customized this package because it's essentially equivalent to Annapurna Circuit Trek. This trek is from Manang; rather than taking the valley north to Tanki Manang and Yak Kharka, this route goes to the central valley to the west, passes through the Khangsar Village (The Last Village of Nepal) in Annapurna Circuit, and treks up to Tilicho lake. We visit Yak Kharka and then up to the pass of Thorung La at an elevation of 5416 meters.Tilicho Lake is the destination of 1 of the best popular side hikes of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The walk takes additional 3–4 days for hiking to Tilicho Lake. The final approach to the lake is completed during each day hike from the hotel at Tilicho Base Camp. Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is among the sole Circuit Treks in Nepal. You'll learn various things like culture, Thorung La Pass, Tilicho Lake, Muktinath Temple, and Buddhist culture.

Things to know before Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek

What is the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake is a popular and challenging trekking route in Nepal. It combines the classic Annapurna Circuit with a detour to Tilicho Lake, which is one of the highest lakes in the world. The trek takes you through diverse landscapes, including lush valleys, remote villages, alpine meadows, and high mountain passes, offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.

How long is the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake?

The duration of the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake can vary depending on the itinerary and individual preferences. On average, it takes around 18 to 21 days to complete the entire trek, including acclimatization and rest days. The actual trekking distance is approximately 230 kilometers (140 miles).

What is the best time to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake?

The best time to undertake the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and moderate temperatures, providing ideal conditions for trekking. However, it's important to note that weather conditions in mountainous regions can be unpredictable. So it's always recommended to check the weather forecast before embarking on the trek.

Is a permit require for the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake?

Yes, permits require for the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake. There are two main permits you need to obtain: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekker's Information Management System (TIMS) card. These permits are necessary to enter and trek within the Annapurna Conservation Area. You can obtain these permits from the Nepal Tourism Board or through authorized trekking agencies in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

What is the level of difficulty for the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake consider a strenuous trek and requires a good level of physical fitness and prior trekking experience. The route involves long daily walks, steep ascents and descents, and crossing high mountain passes, such as Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters/17,769 feet). Altitude sickness is also a concern, so proper acclimatization and gradual ascent are crucial. It's recommend to engage in regular physical exercise and prepare well in advance for the trek.

Are tea houses or lodges available along the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake?

Yes, there are tea houses or lodges available along the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake. The route is pass through several villages where trekkers, so can find accommodation and meals. These tea houses offer basic facilities, such as dormitory-style rooms or private rooms with shared bathrooms. However, it's advisable to carry a sleeping bag and make advance bookings during peak trekking seasons to ensure availability.

What should I pack for the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake?

Some essential items to pack for the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake include:

  • Sturdy trekking boots
  • Warm clothing layers (including a down jacket)
  • Moisture-wicking base layers
  • Trekking pants
  • Hat and gloves
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Sleeping bag
  • Backpack
  • Trekking poles
  • Water bottle and water purification tablets
  • First aid kit
  • Snacks and energy bars
  • Headlamp or flashlight
  • Camera
It's important to pack light while ensuring you have all the necessary items for comfort and safety during the trek.
 

Do I need a guide and porter for the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake?

While it's mandatory to have a guide or porter for the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake. It's highly recommended, especially if you are inexperienced or unfamiliar with the region. A guide can provide valuable assistance in navigation, offer insights into the local culture and geography, and ensure your safety throughout the trek. Hiring a porter can also help lighten your load, allowing you to focus on enjoying the trek. If you prefer a more independent trekking experience, it's still advisable to carry detailed maps and have a good understanding of the route beforehand.

Highlights

  • Beautiful terraces with rice fields and farmhouses.
  • Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar.
  • Eye-catching waterfalls.
  • Explore the beautiful city of Pokhara.
  • Sunset tour at Sarangkot.
  • Tilicho lake.
  • Muktinath Temple.
  • Marpha village.
  • Thorung La pass.
  • Beautiful views of different Himal like Annapurna, Manaslu, and Dhaulagiri.

Day to Day Itinerary

Meet by our Himalayan Asia representative in airport and transfer to the hotel. Our representative assists to check in hotel process and give short brief aboutAnnapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek .
Overnight in Kathmandu.  

  • Accommodation: Three Star Hotel
  • Location: Kathmandu

After breakfast, our trekking guide will pick us up from your hotel for a drive to Besisahar (185km/7hrs). Our journey starts into the hills through the winding roads along the Trishuli River. En route, we see more of the countryside of Nepal that offers greenery, rivers, villages, farms and beautiful mountain scenarios.
Overnight in Dharapani.


  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
  • Location: Dharapani
  • Altitude: 1860m.

Similar walk is the sufficient walk another days through the same valley hikes up to the eastern part of the river. We a cross with so many beautiful waterfalls and green pine forests on the way. After 2 hrs walk we can see close view of Mt. Annapurna II 7940m., Annapurna IV 7525m. Close to the head quarter town called Chame.
Overnight in Chame.


  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
  • Location: Chame
  • Altitude: 2670m.

After starting trekking Chame to Pisang we pass through Lamjung Himal (6893m). The mountain disappears as you climb the path up the valley, passing a huge apple orchard. From this point the valley becomes extremely steep-sided as you follow the path to Bhratang (2950m.). You can see the east peak of Annapurna II as well as Pisang Peak (6091m.) to the north-east. Continuing on, you come to a long mani wall by a bridge and the lower village of Pisang.
Overnight in Pisang.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
  • Location: Pisang
  • Altitude: 3100m.

When we are walking through Pisang, we can see good views of the Manang Valley, Tilicho Peak (7145m) and after descending we can see Hondge (3320m). From here we can see in north east side face of Annapurna III, Sabje Khola Valley, and Annapurna IV (7525m). Large chortens and mani walls abound and the tall peaks of the Himalaya spread out before us - Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Gangapurna (7455m) and, to the rear, Tilicho Peak (7145m).
Overnight in Manang.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge.
  • Location: Manang.
  • Altitude: 3440m

Explore other old monasteries in Manang. From here we can see many high mountains and peaks called Annapurna II, Annapurna II and III 7555m, Gangapurna 7454m., Tilicho Peak 7134m, Manaslu 9156m., Chulu east 6059m and many more.
 Overnight in Manang.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge.
  • Location: Manang
  • Altitude: 3440m.

Explore other old monasteries in Manang. From here we can see many high mountains and peaks called Annapurna II, Annapurna II and III 7555m, Gangapurna 7454m., Tilicho Peak 7134m, Manaslu 9156m., Chulu east 6059m and many more. After passing Khangsar, we will move towards Siri Kharka. 
Overnight in Siri Kharka.


  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge.
  • Location: Manang
  • Altitude: 4060m.

After taking breakfast, we move towards Tilicho Lake. On the way, we pass monastery. We walk some ascends and descends down towards Tilicho Base camp.
Overnight in Tilicho Base Camp. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge.
  • Location: Tilicho Base Camp.
  • Altitude: 4000m.

After taking breakfast, we will hike towards Tilicho Lake. While trekking to Tilicho Lake , we will see Yaks and Deer dazzling along our route. Tilicho Lake is known as glacier lake found by French Expedition Team. The Tilicho Lake is sacred lake for Hindus followers explained in Ramayana also. 

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge.
  • Location: Siri Kharka
  • Altitude: 4060m.

After taking breakfast, we walk towards Yak Kharka. We pass Khangsar village and ruined old village and down to cross the river an old bridge between Gumsang and Yak Kharka.

Overnight in Yak Kharka.  

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge.
  • Location: Yak Kharka.
  • Altitude: 4200m.

After Yak Kharka, we climb gradually to a ridge before descending to the headwaters of the Marshyangdi. After a short ascent up the mountain path on the right bank, you follow a narrow trail across an unstable spree slope and then descend to Thorung Phedi.

Overnight in Thorung Phedi.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge.
  • Location: Thorung Phedi.
  • Altitude: 4420m.

.We start early today for your crossing of Thorung La (5416m). The trail becomes steep immediately on leaving camp but as this trail has been used by local people for hundreds of years the path is well defined. The gradient then eases and after around 4 hours of steady climbing, you reach the chorten and prayer flags of the pass. The views are dramatic to say the least, from the snow-covered mountains above, to the head of the Kali Gandaki valley below and the brown and purple hills of Mustang which are spread out before us. The descent to Muktinath is a knee pounding 1600m but it's compensated for with excellent views of Dhaulagiri. Eventually the moraines give way to grassy slopes before a pleasant walk along the Jhong Khola Valley to Muktinath and its shrines and temple.

Overnight in Muktinath.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge.
  • Location: Muktinath
  • Altitude: 2860m.

After passing through Jharkot and Khingar, villages with typical Tibetan architecture, we follow the valley floor most of the way to Jomsom. Jomsom is sprawled along both banks of the Kali Gandaki and from here we get fine views of the Nilgiri peaks. We continue down to Marpha, a delightful Thakali village, with a well-planned drainage system. Its narrow alleys and passageways provide welcome shelter from the strong winds of the Kali Gandaki Gorge. 

Overnight in Jomsom

  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Accommodation: Tea House
  • Location: Jomsom
  • Altitude: 2860m

At early morning fly or drive to Pokhara. If you take flight, it will take 35 min. and if you use ground transport, it will take one day and can see more beautiful scenario with Kali Gandaki River. After reaching in Pokhara, check in hotel and fresh and drive to David’s fall, Gupteswor cave. You have free time for your own activities like Paragliding, Bunjy jump, Zip flyer and more. In evening time, we drive towards Sarangkot for Sunset tour.

Overnight in Pokhara.

  • Meals: Breakfast and Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Three Star Hotel
  • Location: Kathmandu

Breakfast in hotel, we will take bus /Car or by air towards Kathmandu. After reaching in Kathmandu, check in hotel and free time for shopping in Thamel area for buying souvenir. At evening , Himalayan Asia Treks staff takes to restaurant for dinner with cultural program.

Overnight in Kathmandu.

  • Meals: Breakfast.

Finishing breakfast, Himalayan Asia Treks staff transfer to airport according to your flight schedule.

  • Meals: Breakfast.

What's Included

  • Accommodation on BB basis in Kathmandu and Pokhara best Three Star Hotel..
  • Ground transportation (Airport picks and drop,sightseeing and Kathmandu-Besisahar - Dharapani by sharing bus/jeep , Pokhara-Kathmandu by Tourist bus).
  • Flight fare of Jomsom-Pokhara.
  • Three times meals at trekking route.
  • Accommodation in Tea house or lodge in trekking route.
  • Government licensed English speaking guide.
  • Porter (one porter for two person and carry 20 kg).
  • All necessary paper work like Permit and TIMS card (Trekkers information management system).
  • Travel and rescue arrangement.
  • Twenty four call assistance by our office representative.
  • Farewell dinner in typical Nepali restaurant.
  • Sleeping bag and duffel bag will provide by our company have to return after trek.
  • Government taxes and office service charge.
  • Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Visa.
  • Any type of insurance.
  • Any type of international flight fare.
  • Personal nature expenses like bar bills, water, tea coffee, shower, laundry, wi fi in trekking route.
  • Tips.
  • Any extra cost which is not mentioned in Cost includes column.
  • Extra day for natural calamities like flood, landslide, flight cancellation.

Useful Information

Nepal Information:

Nepal is a landlocked country located between India and Tibet autonomous region of China. It has the highest peak in the world, named Mt Everest (Sagarmatha), and eight heights of the world’s ten tallest mountains. Lumbini is the birthplace of Gautam Buddha place.

Nepal is a small country but tremendous geographic diversity. It rises from Fifty-nine meters to eight thousand eight hundred forty-eight meters. Nepal is divided into three parts Terai, Hill, and mountain regions.

Here, the first language is Nepal (Devanagari script) and one hundred twenty-three languages. The official language of Nepal is called Nepali.

Passport and Visa:

The first thing for traveling anywhere, you need a valid passport with at least six months. You can obtain a visa for Nepal from Nepalese consulates or on arrival in Kathmandu or other borders, or the most reliable source of information is currently the Department of Immigration Nepal if you fill online form and bring it with you. It would be easier to get a visa at any Nepal border.

Weather:

Nepal’s climate varies with its topography and altitude. The low land Terai area has a hot and humid climate that can rise above 40 degrees Celsius during summer, middle region weather is pleasant almost all the year, and northern region temperature is always cold.

Nepal has four seasons:

  • Spring: Mar-May: The temperature is suitable in this season, and many flowers blossom and best season for trekking.
  • Summer: (Jun-Aug): Monsoon season in Nepal, weather is hot and wet at times.
  • Autumn: (Sep-Nov): This is the best season for tours and treks in Nepal. At that time, the weather is delightful so are the mountains and Himalayas. This season is also the season of festivals as Nepal celebrates the most significant festival Nepali name Dashain and Tihar.

Best Time to Go Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek:

The best to do trekking in Nepal is in September to November and March to May. December and January are also possible to do trekking, but winter season so that it would be cold and snowfall, we can suggest the lower part of mountain trekking. June, July, and August is the raining season, so we recommend contacting us for the best trek.

Is it suitable Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek for me?

If you are physically fit and love to walk, then you can choose any trekking itinerary from our website to suit you. If you choose a long day’s program, then you have t walk more days in the mountain. All trekking programs can see on our website. We suggest that while going trek, please took one professional guide and if you cannot carry your luggage, then take one porter. If you need more questions about a suitable trekking package in Nepal, please drop an email or contact us on social sites.

Currency:

The Nepalese currency is called Rupees. For exchanging your currency into local currency, you can visit Bank, govt. Licensed holder Money Exchange. For Exchange Rate, you can follow this link: Nepal Rastra Bank

Insurance:

We told all our clients to do travel insurance before leaving your home country by showing your travel itinerary. Their insurance must cover medical, personal accidents, loss of gears, emergency evacuation, damaged or lost luggage, etc.

Hotel/ Accommodation on Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek:

We provide our client in the City area best three stars (above three stars is on the client requested) and lodge/teahouse during the trek. A Teahouse/lodge is the combination of a guest house and restaurant where rooms are usually decorated and available bed, pillow, and blankets. In every trekking route, we provide only a teahouse/lodge because there is no availability of a deluxe hotel.

Meals Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek:

The meal which is provided in the trekking area is included breakfast, lunch and dinner. We provide breakfast and dinner where you stay overnights, and our guide will choose a restaurant for lunch on the way. Our guide and other staff always give priority t served delicious, hygienic and each place special food. We recommend you bring water purification tablets.

Guide and porter Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek:

We provide you best staff to you who have good experience and government license. In a group, we provide one guide till 16 pax and one porter for each two-person. One porter carries 15 kg.

Personal Expenses Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek:

Personal expenses mean which is not covered your package column cost include. Usually, you have to pay for table drinks (alcoholic/nonalcoholic beverages), snacks (on the trek), tips, souvenirs, hot showers, and an extra day if the flight is canceled or any other natural disasters.

Nepal has four Seasons:

  • Spring: Mar-May: The temperature is suitable in this season, and many flowers blossom and best season for trekking in Nepal and Tour in Nepal.
  • Summer: (Jun-Aug): Monsoon season in Nepal, weather is hot and wet at times. If you love to rain and want to easy trek in Nepal and Tour in Nepal. 
  • Autumn: (Sep-Nov): This is the best season for tours and expeditions in Nepal. At that time, the weather is delightful so are the mountains and Himalayas. This season is also the season of festivals as Nepal celebrates the most significant festival Nepali name Dashain and Tihar. Himalayan Asia Treks suggest book Trekking in Nepal and Nepal Tour.
  • Winter: (Dec-Feb): This is the cold season, and you can see the beautiful Himalayan view in the lower part of mountain trekking in Nepal and Tour in Nepal. 

Some do’s and do not’s Trekking in Nepal:

  • Respect local culture and people.
  • The Nepalese people are friendly and hospitalize by nature, so you do not have difficulty adjusting here.
  • While entering Temple and monasteries, just check in some temples not allowed entering for non-Hindus. If there is permitted to enter, please do not wear leather things and walk in Temple and Stupas clockwise. Before taking a photograph, please ask the authorized person for permission.

What do I need for the trekking/ Packing list :

  • Day pack (rucksack)
  • Lightweight and warm trousers.
  • Socks.
  • Sun hats and gloves.
  • Full- sleeves t-shirt.
  • Warm jackets.
  • Waterproof jacket, trousers and bag cover.
  • Lightweight cotton clothing.
  • Waterproof or windcheater jacket.
  • Knee supports.
  • Sunglasses.
  • Sun cream and lip protector.
  • A one-liter hard Water bottle.
  • Batteries
  • Flashlight
  • Down jacket
  • Trekking shoes or boots.
  • A pair of sandals.