Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek

Combining the world's highest lake, Tilicho, with the iconic Annapurna Circuit Trek, this adventure takes you on a journey through some of Nepal's most breathtaking landscapes. Tilicho Lake, an astounding 4,920 meters above sea level, Tilicho Lake is a sight to behold. Nestled amidst the Annapurna Himalayas, its turquoise waters reflect the surrounding peaks, creating a scene of unparalleled beauty. 

This classic trek circles the Annapurna massif, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and traditional villages. You'll traverse diverse terrain, from rhododendron forests to high-altitude passes, experiencing the rich culture and spiritual significance of the region. Imagine the serenity of gazing upon this natural wonder, the silence broken only by the whispers of the wind and the chirping of alpine birds.

* Witness the breathtaking beauty of the world's highest lake Tilicho Lake, a true gem of the Himalayas.
* Conquer the Thorong La Pass, one of the highest mountain passes in the world, at 5,416 meters. 
* Immerse yourself in the unique culture and traditions of the Manang Valley, known for its yak herders and traditional Gompas. 
* Visit the holy Muktinath Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists. 
* Marvel at the awe-inspiring panorama of the Annapurna mountains, including Annapurna I, the 10th highest peak in the world.
* Trek through a variety of terrains, from lush forests and meadows to glacial valleys and high-altitude deserts.
* Meet the friendly people of the Himalayas and learn about their unique way of life.

This trek is a challenging but rewarding experience, suitable for fit and adventurous trekkers. With careful planning and acclimatization, you can conquer the heights and create memories that will last a lifetime.

If you are looking for an unforgettable trekking adventure in Nepal, the Tilicho Lake & Annapurna Circuit Trek is the perfect choice.If you're ready to push your boundaries, immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes, and create memories that will last a lifetime, then the Tilicho Lake & Annapurna Circuit Trek awaits.

Remember, careful planning, proper acclimatization, and a spirit of adventure are key ingredients for a successful and unforgettable journey. So, lace up your boots, pack your sense of wonder, and prepare to embark on an epic adventure in the heart of the Himalayas!

Trek Customization:
This trek itinerary provided here is a standard itinerary prepared but if you want to customize your own itinerary for this trekking adventure at your timeline and interest, do write us, and we will be very pleased to customize this trek to your need. We are more than happy to customize this trip to your requirements. 

Day 01 Arrival in Kathmandu 
Altitude: 1350m/4428 ft
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Welcome Dinner

On arrival to Kathmandu; Advance Adventures representative will greet you at the airport and transfer you to our trip hotel. Later we meet and take you to our head office, brief your upcoming Annapurna Circuit Adventure with us and introduce our trekking guide. Evening, we host welcome dinner at one of the finest local restaurant with music and ethnic dance. Overnight Kathmandu.

Day 02 Sightseeing of Kathmandu Valley &Trek Preparation day 
Altitude: 1,300m/4,264 ft 
Activities: Sightseeing tour
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast

Today, after breakfast at the hotel, we start our guided city tour of Kathmandu capital; we visit the main highlighted and most interesting part of the city which is recommended by the UNESCO Heritage sites of Nepal. We visit Pashupatinath Nath (Greatest Hindu Temple), Bouddhanath (Biggest Buddhist Stupa of the world- a prime Stupa of Buddhist pilgrimage), Kathmandu Durbar Square (Historical part of the city) & Swyambhunath(Monkey Temple) has a great 360 degree views of Kathmandu valley (Buddhist and Hindu center- a place of religious harmony). Afternoon, return back to the hotel, refreshed up, check your trekking equipment (hire or buy as per required), trekking preparation. Overnight at Kathmandu.

Day 03 Kathmandu- Besisahar, 
Altitude: 800m/2624 ft 
Distance of driving: 6-7 hrs 
Accommodation: Teahouse/ Lodges
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Drive to Besisahar via local highway, it is 175 KM, takes about 6 hours to reach this mountain town, from where our real adventure to Annapurna begins! Beshishahar is a big town and district headquarters of the Lamjung District, explore the surrounding area and overnight at the hotel.

Day 04 Drive to Chame
Altitude: 2,710m/8,892ft
Distance of driving: 5 hrs 
Accommodation: Teahouse/ Lodges
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

We start our journey into the hills on a winding road. On the way, we admire terraced farms and beautiful sceneries. From Besisahar, the road gets quite rough for about 65 km, which takes roughly 5 hours. Today, we will cross small villages like Khudi, Bulbule, Syange, Jagat, Tal, and Dharapani. We are staying overnight in Chame.

Day 05 Chame – Pisang 
Altitude: 3,200m/10498 ft
Distance of walking: 5-6 hrs walks
Accommodation: Teahouse/ Lodges
Meals Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 

Walking to Pisang, for the first half an hour, we walk easy and local areas, after Bhratang, walking involves with a steep and narrow path through a very dense forest, bring us to the dramatic curved rock face, rising 1500m from the river, pretty interesting walking here along with pine forest. Upon on reaching to the hilltop, vegetation is ended, walking is a straight and wide range of river valley starts. From here, the entire views of the Annapurna Range are majestic, entirely surrounded. Pisang is a really interesting village with riverside. Evening you can take a half an hour walk to Upper Mustang if you want. Overnight at Pisang.

Day 06 Pisang-Manang 
Altitude: 3540m/ 11,614 ft
Distance of walking: 4-5 hrs walks
Accommodation: Teahouse/ Lodges
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

From Pisang, there are two routes to Manang, Upper Route & Lower Route. If you want to go through upper route (we recommend), the route through Upper Pisang via Geru, the sceneries are outstanding. It feels like we are horizontally in front of the majestic peaks. The panoramic views of the mountain peaks, such as Annapurna, Pisang peak, and several others will definitely allure us. We notice the contrast in the landscape and vegetation from today. The cold, dry climate creates a much harsher environment. We will retrace back to Braga village for the lunch, take a short look to Barge monastery, the largest Buddhist monastery of Manang village. Another half an hour brings us to the Manang for overnight.

Day 07 Manang: Rest & Acclimatize 
Altitude: 3540m/ 11,614 ft
Accommodation: Teahouse/ Lodges
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

A day, mainly for acclimatize, we have some recommended hikes for today as an acclimatization hike. Walk to Gangapurna Glacier Lake, and take an hour uphill to the tea stop at the lap of Gangapurna, you would have a great overlook of Manang, and it’s surrounding villages. Either walk uphill above Manang onward to the cliff where there are 100 rupees, BABA, he blesses you for the success of Thorong-la. Very interesting cliff gumba here, views of entire Annapurna’s and Tilicho is on horizontal. Pretty Windy. Overnight at Manang.

Day 08 Manang to Tilicho Base Camp
Altitude: 4,140m/13,583ft
Distance of walking: 6-7 hour walk
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodges
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

From Manang we head out through the western gates and follow the path down to the river. We cross the river and continue walking on its southern side through coniferous forest.  After reaching Kangsar Village, we walk further up towards Siri Kharka and pass a monastery on the way.  The uphill walk could be a bit tiring, but we will have Gungang Himal and Mt. Chulu in the backdrop to entertain us. While the path from Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp isn’t very steep or physically strenuous, it could be exhausting as we have to walk on narrow paths in loose scree and landslide area. Our trail goes through the middle of the landslide area whereby we can see impressive rock formations along the trail. Overnight in Tilicho Base Camp.

Day 09 Visit Tilicho Lake (4,919m/16134ft); & back to Siri Kharka
Altitude: 4,060m/13,321ft
Distance of walking: 6-7 hour walk
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodges
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After the initial tough, steep, switch backed ascent, our trail continues to hug the side of the mountain in a gradual steep incline before reaching the watershed. On the way, we enjoy yaks and deer grazing above and below our trail. On the other side is Tilicho Lake, a large spectacularly set lake nestled at the foot of the north face of Tilicho Peak. This day is memorable as you visit the second-highest lake in Nepal, Tilicho Lake situated at an elevation of 4,920 meters. The dark emerald waters of Tilicho Lake surrounded by pure white snow and ice will surely captivate you. We retrace our step and return to Siri Kharka. Overnight in Siri Kharka.

Day 10 Siri kharka to Yak kharka
Altitude: 4,110m/13,484 ft
Distance of walking: 4-5 hour walk
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodges
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

We leave Siri Kharka and descend towards Khangsar Village. On the way, we pass Tare Gumba, a thousand-year old monastery, which is very important to the local people. Upon reaching Khangsar Village, we realize that it is not inhabited except for occasional herders during festival times. We follow a rock wall out of Khangsar. We walk further more until we reach a seasonal bridge in the Thorang Khola valley. After crossing the river, we ascend for a while to a plateau. Next, walk furthermore until reaching Yak Kharka. Overnight in Yak Kharka.

Day 11 Yak Kharka - Thorong Phedi

Altitude 4,450m/14596 ft

Distance of walking: 3-4 hrs walk
Accommodation: Teahouse/ Lodges

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today, we are walking on the foot of the world highest pass, Thorong-la Phedi, it is a small busy settlement catering to the needs of trekkers who must have to overnight here before heading to the pass. It is like a base camp overnight before heading to the pass of 5416m. Peoples who are fit and want to shorten the hike of the nest day, they can hike up to high camp for another hour and a half for overnight. However, we overnight at Thorong Phedi for the safe and sound sleep.

Day 12 Thorong Phedi – Thorong- La Top- Muktinath

Altitude 3,800/12,467ft & Thorong-La 5,416m/17,765 ft

Distance of walking: 7-8 hrs walks
Accommodation: Teahouse/ Lodges

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

The Ultimate destination of our Annapurna Circuit Trek! Cross to Thorong-la, 5416m- the highest passes of the world. An early start is essential thus we would start our walking in the morning approx of 4 to 4.30 depending on seasons and weather conditions. It takes about 4 to 5 hours to attempt the top, the initial first hour is pretty tough as it is straight uphill till to high camp, then gradual walk onward, however, each minute is hard and memorable. Altitude can be a problem, so slow and continuous walking is required.

Reaching the top is an achievement. The dramatic views of entire mountains are just amazing. Enjoy your time here then prepare for the long descent all the way down to Muktinath at an altitude of 3800m, you would love to be back to this altitude as you doing a lot of ups and downs. Muktinath is an important pilgrimage place for both Hindus and Buddhist. The area hosts a Vishnu temple and a Monastery nearby. Muktinath itself demonstrates the religions harmony in Nepal. Overnight at Muktinath.

Day 13 Muktinath-Jomsom

Altitude 2,670m/8,760 ft
Distance of walking: 4-5 hrs walks
Accommodation: Teahouse/ Lodges

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

We believed that you would have a late morning sleep, no problem! Breakfast in the morning at 08: AM then slowly started the day walking. All the way down, deserted hills, takes 2 hours around to reach Kali Gandaki River Valley then walking mostly through the river valley, cross Jomsom- the headquarter of Mustang, Overnight at Jomsom. 

Day 14  Fly Jomsom to Pokhara 

Flight 20 Min. Leisure in Pokhara
Accommodation: Hotel in Pokhara

Meals: Breakfast

This wonderful morning, after breakfast we check in the airport to fly back to Pokhara. This is a dramatic flight between gorge of the two huge mountains Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. On arrival at Pokhara airport guide will transfer to the lakeside hotel. Rest of the time explores the lake and overnight at hotel.

Day 15 Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu 

Drive: 5-6 hrs drive Distance- 210 Kms
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Farewell Dinner

After breakfast, we drive to back to Kathmandu by tourist bus and transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu. Refreshed up; evening we meet again, take feedback of your trip. We host a Farewell Dinner at one of the finest Nepalese restaurants. Overnight at Kathmandu.

Day 16 Departure from Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast

Today the journey comes to an end. There's nothing to do but trade emails with your new friends, organize all your photos and finally depart from Nepal. Or get ready for the next adventure with us!

End of our trip!

Cost Includes:

• All ground transportation in Kathmandu by private vehicle (Including airport pick and drop) 
• 03 Nights twin sharing three-star Deluxe accommodation in Kathmandu on BB plan
• Welcome & Farewell Dinner at one of the finest restaurant in down town
• Annapurna Conservation Areas Project (ACAP) Permits & Fees & TIMs card
• Kathmandu to Besishahar transfer by avaiable public bus (6 to 7 hours drive)
• Tilicho Lake to Annapurna Circuit Trekking on full board of meals (B, L, D, tea /coffee in cups only), seasonal fruits etc. 
• Tilicho Lake to Annapurna Circuit Trekking accommodation in comfortable Mt. Lodges & Guest Houses on twin share
• Jomsom- Pokhara flight, air transfer and taxes
• 01 Nights twin share 3 star deluxe hotel in Pokhara with breakfast plan
• Pokhara- Kathmandu transfer by deluxe tourust bus (Lunch will be provided)
• One Advanced Adventures Trek Leader (Gov. Licensed, first aid, altitude trained/experienced and eco trained), assistance leader/s in a group, their entire expenses, equipment and insurance 
• One trek porter to carry trek luggage’s for every two trekkers in a group, all payment, trekking equipment and insurance 
• Sleeping Bags and Down Jacket for Trek use (Need to return after trek), Trek Duffle Bag and T- shirt, Trekking Maps & Adventure Certificate 
• Group Medicine kit Box
• All Gov. and local taxes as applicable 
• Final departure transfer from Kathmandu to airport on your departure

Cost not Includes:

• Nepal Visa, International flights in/out Nepal 
• Lunch & evening meals in Kathmandu & Pokhara (If any) 
• Cost of beverages such as mineral water, coca cola, Beer etc., cost of battery charge, laundry etc. on trek 
• Travel insurance (Must include Helicopter evacuation, Medical Exp. and trip cancellation) 
• Personal trekking gears 
• Personal nature expenses & Tips 
• Any extending trips

Passport & Visa Information
Nepal visa is the easiest visa to obtain; you may buy your Nepal visa at your nearest Nepalese Embassy/ Consulate or Mission offices abroad or buy this upon on arrival to Kathmandu international airport as per your convenient. You have to have 2 passport size photographs, Visa fees in US cash & valid passport at least for 6 months valid at the starting of the trip.

Multiple entry 15 days - US$ 30 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple entry 30 days - US$ 50 or equivalent convertible currency
Multiple entry 90 days - US$ 150 or equivalent convertible currency

Download visa form-: www.nepalimmigration.gov.np

Group Size
In this Tilicho Lake to Annapurna Circuit Trek, the minimum group size would be two and maximum group size is ten or more on request. We can also organize private trip to solo person with single supplement cost. Else, join our estimated group departure dates available online or ask us with your personal dates, we will open group date on the same date.

Our Guides, Trip & Safety
Because these hikes take you on the remote Himalayan region, it is very essential that you are accompanied with the very experienced and qualified & equipped leader for the safe and successful trip. We Advanced Adventures employee the local trek guide and stuff who are trained and qualified on the trip we worked on. Our guides are trained and licensed from Nepal Gov, certify from TAAN & Nepal Mountaineering Association. All of our leading Trekking and Climbing Guide are experience from last 8 to 10 years. We have train them specially for your trip, to cater the flexible needs of our peoples in the group joining from different countries, this double assure you that your trip is at the right and professional hands.

At every trip, there would be our one Trek leader and one assistance leader on each additional 2 peoples on the trek- this arrangement would ensure that even if any of our guide/ assistance guides get sick or if any travelers gets sick and need to be back or delay the days of walking, it would still works smoothly and there would not be any impact on our original trek plan. Also each two trekker would have one Sherpa helper for carrying your trekking bags.

Acclimatization 
There is no way to prepare for altitude other than to spend time at altitude. Being in very good physical condition will help ameliorate some of the exhaustion that people often feel, but it will not prevent altitude caused medical problems such as Acute Mountain Sickness. This itinerary is designed with a high degree of awareness of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) in mind and to ensure a comfortable and safe adventure trek in the Himalayas. Staying well hydrated and getting plenty of rest may help. 

The maximum elevation of this trek will be reached at Thorong la at altitude of 5416m above sea level. Obviously this altitude range is high, but as we would be e range of altitude, and we are hiking from the 820m to this altitude range with enough days of hiking en route, it is not considered a high risk zone for AMS. However, AMS could affect to the peoples indifferently. 

Travel Insurance & Vaccination
You must obtain personal travel insurance to join us for our Himalayan trips. You must be having a travel insurance which must cover helicopter evacuation, trip cancellation and medical expenses. And it is suggested that you buy your insurance policy from you homeland country before traveling as it is difficult buying local travel insurance policy for foreigners in Nepal. 

Vaccination is required to plan to your trip to Nepal but it is not a must to have thing to come, but highly suggested. Your doctor will have the information of vaccination you would require to the country you will be traveling. 

Hepatitis A, Japanese Encephalitis, Polio, Rabies, Tetanus, Typhoid and Malaria etc. are the recommended vaccination for traveling to Nepal. 

Meals and Accommodations
While in Kathmandu and in Pokhara, your accommodation is at 3 star deluxe hotel that comfort your stays in city and while in trek, your accommodation is at Mt. Lodge and Guest House which is clean and comfortable. Our entire accommodation is at twin share unless stated but single supplement accommodation is also available on personal request at the additional cost of US$- 350.

In city, only breakfast is included on the offered trip itinerary but while in trek full board of meals is included (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, and Tea- Coffee). We provide you food from the local tea- house/ Mt. Lodge from en route. Breakfast and dinner is to be provided from the same tea- house/ guest house we would overnight but lunch would be en route in between.

Foods provided are depends on the availability of the Mt. lodges we would be staying but in general, you can have Nepalese foods (Dal Bhat), Tibetan fried bread, various soups, Momo’s (steamed dumplings), potatoes, pastas and even a version of pizza! So, over all you have a different choice of food on trek.

Trekking Seasons
We do have two best seasons to attempt this trek to Tilicho Lake to Annapurna Circuit Trek. We always suggest you to come at the right time of the year as far as possible to enjoy this trip at best weather condition. 

Spring: - (March, April, May) - Best warmest time to trek. Rhododendron flowers in bloom- excellent trails and clear skies, best visibility. Good Temperature, warmest weather of the year.

Autumn:- (Mid September, October and November) - Excellent trails, clear blue skies, best visibility. Best Time to Trek

Winter Months: - (December, January and February) are also very good, but it’s obviously colder. You have to be prepared for this. It is up to you to plan this trek at this cold time or not.

Summer: - Monsoon, so rain and visibility can be a big issue (from Mid June, July and August). We do not suggest you this time for the trek.

Caring Porter
Our porter are fully equipped and insured for each trip they are undertaking with us. As you know that we are very sincere with the porter issues and their situation while on trek thus we make sure that our porter are fully prepared for the trip. We are closely working with International Porter Progress Association for the welfare and befit for the touristic porters. The maximum load carried by our porter is 20 to 25 KG maximum so be sure that your trekking bag so not load more than 12 KG.

To Book
Once you would choose which trip you would like to book with us, write us with the information or phone us on our phone number for the trip booking confirmation. We have online trip booking option, you may go on that link, choose your trip and date and follow the instruction with information required and summit us. Once your trip booking request would be received, we would suggest you the final trip booking procedure with advance payment of the trip. Non-refundable deposit of 20% (per person) is required to confirm a place on your selected adventure.

Please do not hesitate to contact us in relation to any questions you may have regarding our trip booking Process.