Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake -18 Days

Trip Code

NOA-70044

Starts At

Kathmandu, Nepal

Ends At

Kathmandu, Nepal

Trip Grades

Strenuous

Maximum Altitude

5,416m

Country

Nepal

Activities

Trekking

Duration

18 days

Trip Highlights

  • You will get the chance to trek along the appealing Annapurna circuit path 
  • Arrive at the summit of the path at Thorong La Pass 
  • Explore the beautiful valley  of Manang, Yak Kharka  
  • Visit the Jomsom,  Muktinath and Khansar villages 
  • View the Tilicho lake which is said to be the highest in the world 
  • Benefit from the varied Nepalese landscape and culture 
  • Relish the marvelous views of the Himalayan peaks throughout the path 
     

Trip Description

Annapurna Circuit Trek via Tilicho Lake is one of the popular and highly demanding treks in the country of Nepal. It has recently risen in popularity which is remote and off-the-beaten-path. This is in comparison to the better-known teahouse treks in Nepal. The tour takes you to the good-looking forest of Rhododendron and Saal, powerful waterfalls, and glaciers. You may view the amazing mountains of the world. You will get the opportunity to visit various places like Jomsom,  Muktinath, and Khansar . 
Trekkers may also view the natural beauty of the region where there are abundant forests, rivers, flora, and fauna. There is Tilicho Lake which is said to be the highest in the world. Similarly, you may arrive at the summit of the path at Thorong La Pass.  It is one of the most peaceful trekking spots, with a welcoming atmosphere and great kindness. You may discover these places and gain much more knowledge and experience. 
Moreover, there are friendly people with rich culture and tradition. They include Nepalese and Tibetan ethnic groups. On the other hand, there is abundant wildlife including Tahr, Agali, Pika, and Himalayan Marmots. You will also enjoy a wonderful drive from Kathmandu where trekkers will get the opportunity to view the scenic beauty of the countryside. Moreover, small human settlements to the high animal grazing pastures are other aspects of this journey. 
 

Outlined Itinerary

Day 1 : Airport pickup and check into hotel

On this day, our tour begins from the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu. Our representative will come to pick you at the airport. From there, you will be taken away to our respective hotel for relaxation. We may also go for the short shopping if you are willing. 
 

  • Max Altitude

    1350m

Day 2 : Kathmandu sightseeing and trek preparation

Before heading to the Himalayas you must be familiar with quite a few things. Guidance and research for the trek are mandatory for everyone. You will be dealing with a strange experience but finally, with some groundwork, you can deal with it. You should be cautious with your bag pack. Carrying needless equipment will make your journey difficult. We will grasp up on some final shopping if there is free time. You will get the opportunity to explore Boudhanath Stupa, Patan Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, and Swayambhunath Stupa. They have been scheduled in the UNESCO world heritage sites. These sites display the full range of historic and artistic achievements. Kathmandu Valley is world-famous for such beauty. Overnight stay will be at this city. 
 

  • Max Altitude

    1350m

Day 3 : Drive to Beshisahar bus or jeep and hike to Jagat

We will drive for some hours and arrive at Beshisahar. From there, we need to start our hike to Jagat. Jagat is the place which is situated in Gandaki. We have to take a local jeep while moving towards Syange. You may observe rural people, lifestyles, and cultures on the way.  We then start our trek from Syange. From there we walk towards Jagat. We will stay overnight at Jagat. Our actual trek starts from tomorrow. We suggest you to be prepared with all the essential items before. 
 

  • Walking Hours

    6-7 hrs

  • Meals

    Nepali Cuisine

  • Max Altitude

    1410m

Day 4 : Jagat to Dharapani

You can enjoy numerous waterfalls, many small villages, rivers and green forests on the way to Dharapani. For this, you need to hike around 5-7 hours. Similarly, tea houses and rooming houses on the way are fantastic. There is no plain road through these villages. The road is rocky, steep, and dusty. However, in the end, you will notice that the journey was worth it. Taal village is situated in the Manang district. Our path proceeds forward to Chyamje. We need to cross a suspension bridge. After that, our path leads uphill through the oak forest. Trekkers must continue to walk for a while until they observe a beautiful valley. After passing a village called Kodo, we ascend from there to Dharapani. We will stay overnight at Dharapani.  
 

  • Walking Hours

    7-8 hrs

  • Meals

    Nepali Cuisine

  • Max Altitude

    1960m

Day 5 : Dharapani to Chame

Today, we need to head towards Chame. It is located in the Manang district. Chame is also the district headquarter of Manang. Here, trekkers get re-organized. You need to recheck all the essential items here before getting ready for the trek. Safe drinking water stations and hospitals are available in this area. Gurung and Magars are involved in trade and business in this area. We will stay overnight at Chame. 
 

  • Walking Hours

    5-6 hrs

  • Meals

    Nepali Cuisine

  • Max Altitude

    2710m

Day 6 : Chame to Pisang

Today, we will go through a steep and slim path through a very dense forest. This brings us to the theatrical curved rock face. It is above 1500m from the river. You will find the steepest part of the Marshyangdi Valley in this area. It is so steep that the following is fixed into the erect rock. After passing this last scrap of rock, the valley opens up with regal vistas. Th Paungda Danda stands right where the valley widens. It is a huge sloping rock face that rises over 5,000ft (1500m) above the trail. We hike for a while before the achievement of Lower Pisang. There we spend the night. 
 

  • Walking Hours

    5-6 hrs

  • Meals

    Nepali Cuisine

  • Max Altitude

    3300m

Day 7 : Pisang to Manang

There are two routes to Manang. However, we go after the path that takes us to Upper Pisang via Geru. This trail guarantees outstanding views of the beautiful landscape and the powerful mountains including Annapurna and Pisang. We begin to become aware of a difference in the countryside and plants from today. The cold and dry climate also creates a much difficult situation. Our little visit to Barge monastery, the major monastery in the whole district of Manang will be unforgettable.  Overnight at Manang. 
 

  • Walking Hours

    6-7 hrs

  • Meals

    Nepali Cuisine

  • Max Altitude

    3519m

Day 8 : Accammatization day in Manang

We keep ourselves tiring today with a short hike to either Bhojo Gumba or Gangapurna Lake in order to remain fit. If we have the energy, we can even hike to Vraga Village. There we can visit the Himalayan Rescue Association. This will provide us some thought about Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). You need to be ready with all the necessary materials required for hiking. Overnight in Manang. 
 

  • Meals

    Nepali Cuisine

  • Max Altitude

    3519m

Day 9 : Manang to Khangsar

On this day, you will be provided breakfast early in the morning. After that we head towards Khangsar. You will get to visit alongside mountainous land in a stable sheer incline. Travelers can observe the Tilicho peak at the North Face. On that day, we will get back to Khansar village. The overnight stay will be there. However, we will be prepared for our next journey tomorrow. 
 

  • Walking Hours

    2-3 hrs

  • Meals

    Nepali Cuisine

  • Max Altitude

    3745m

Day 10 : Khangsar to Tilicho Base Camp

Today, we will say goodbye to Khangsar and head forward towards Tilicho Base Camp. The path is quite easy but from time to time it might be technical. This is when you have to walk on slender paths in loose scree. We have to walk through the center of a landslide zone. You better follow the guide’s instructions. It is a superior plan as they know the way better. The overnight stay will be at tented camp. 
 

  • Walking Hours

    5-6 hrs

  • Meals

    Nepali Cuisine

  • Max Altitude

    4140m

Day 11 : Visit Tilicho lake and trek back to Base Camp

We will visit Tilicho lake on this day. It is at the highest altitude based on its size. You will get to walk next to mountainous terrain in a stable steep incline. Travelers can observe the Tilicho peak at the North Face. Therefore, Tilicho Lake is a gorgeous place to be. We then head reverse to Tilicho Base Camp after spending some time there. 
 

  • Walking Hours

    5-6 hrs

  • Meals

    Nepali Cuisine

  • Max Altitude

    4949m

Day 12 : Tilicho Base Camp to Yak Kharka

In the morning, we have to start our trek from Khansar village. We take our breakfast and get ready for the trip. We move towards Yak Kharka. It is the neighborhood in Tanki Manang. You can watch the theatrical views of the mountains. Trekkers will find another satisfying day on the circuit. Finally, after a few hours of hike we reach to Yak Kharka. It is the beautiful village with all those natural beauties. 
 

  • Walking Hours

    4-5 hrs

  • Meals

    Nepali Cuisine

  • Max Altitude

    4110m

Day 13 : Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi


Today is the day where we have to climp upwards. The journey may be little difficult, especially for those who are physically weak. Thorong Phedi provides astonishing view to six thousand Damodar Himalaya Mountains and Annapurna III. You can discover gorge glisten roofs of Thorung Phedi as well. We will stay overnight at Thorong High Camp. There you will get to enjoy  all those beauties around. 
 

  • Walking Hours

    3-4 hrs

  • Meals

    Nepali Cuisine

  • Max Altitude

    4420m

Day 14 : Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass

Thorong La pass is said to be of the uppermost passes in the world. Crossing this pass will be our ultimate objective today. We will be passing the path from east to west. This includes from Manang to Muktinath. It is the easiest and safest direction. You may need to get up at around 3 in the morning. After that, we walk uphill the mountain. When we finally make it to the top, we appreciate that our journey was valued. We can take a few pictures and imprison the beautiful moment. Overnight will be in Muktinath. 
 

  • Walking Hours

    7-8 hrs

  • Meals

    Nepali Cuisine

  • Max Altitude

    5416m

Day 15 : Muktinath to Jomsom

We start our trek today towards Kagbeni after visiting Muktinath. Then, we visit   other religious sites of Hindu and Buddhist. It is a beautiful village in Manang valley. Travelers can take pleasure of the serene beauty of this place. We go towards Jomsom from there. It is the windiest valleys in Nepal. You will be crossed by the strong winds far-reaching across the valley. We have run out of our trekking trip today. Overnight stay will be at Jomsom.  
 

  • Walking Hours

    5-6 hrs

  • Meals

    Nepali Cuisine

  • Max Altitude

    2700m

Day 16 : Drive or fly from Jomsom to Pokhara

We take a flight or drive from Jomsom to Pokhara which is a beautiful city. If you are tired of adventurous activities, you can go boating, food hunt, or experience the nightlife of the city. We will stay overnight at Pokhara. It is better to travel around some more days to Pokhara if you want. It is one of the best places to find out natural beauty. Do visit Davis falls, Mahendra cave as well as the lakeside of Pokhara. We do systematize other adventures and sports activities besides trek. Please feel free to contact the tour worker or guide. They are 24/7 ready in service. We will give you idle services if you want to travel around Pokhara. You can use them anytime. They comprise farewell dinner, transportation service, etc. 
 

  • Meals

    Nepali Cuisine

  • Max Altitude

    827m

Day 17 : Drive or fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu

Watching the Himalayas pass beneath your window, you’ll now be able to recognize many of the major peaks. The hustle and bustle of Kathmandu may come as something of a surprise after the solitude of the mountains. You’ll be transported to your hotel to spend the rest of the day at your leisure. Feel free to relax or explore the local markets and eateries. There are plenty of great restaurants and bars in Thamel where you can enjoy dinner before returning to your hotel to spend the night. If you travel by bus you will get to observe highway scenes, local market and other natural beauty. 
Breakfast is included.

  • Max Altitude

    1350m

Day 18 : Final Departure

Today is the day to say goodbye to one of the astonishing country Nepal. You may enjoy your last moment with breakfast in a café. A representative will meet you at the hotel. He/She will drive you to the airport for your return flight. It is good to be airport two hours before the actual departure.             
 

  • Max Altitude

    1350m

Cost Includes

  • All (international and domestic) airport transfers on a tourist vehicle.
  • Twin sharing/Triple sharing accommodation in a 3-star hotel (The Milestone Hotel) for 2 nights in Kathmandu on a breakfast basis (Private room accommodation can be organized at an extra cost)
  • Twin sharing/Triple sharing accommodation in a 3-star hotel for 1 night in Pokhara on a breakfast basis (Private room accommodation can be organized at an extra cost)
  • Tea House/Lodge accommodation during the trek in the Annapurna region
  • Three meals daily during the trekking days
  • Licensed and experienced English-speaking guide
  • Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP)
  • Porters service during the trek for carrying the luggage (1 porter for every 2 clients, per customer 10 KG maximum)
  • Wages, accommodation, meals, gear, insurance, and medications for all staff
  • Walking The Himalaya duffel, Minor Medical Kitbag, Trekking map, T-shirt
  • Farewell dinner on the last night in Nepal
  • All administrative expenses and government taxes

Cost Excludes

  • Nepal Entry Visa (Visa can be acquired easily after your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu with a fee of USD 30 for 15 Days Visa, USD 50 for 30 days visa, and USD 125 for 90 days visa)
  • International airfare and airport departure tax
  • Travel insurance along with high-altitude (5500m) emergency evacuation coverage 
  • Meals (lunch and dinner) in Kathmandu
  • Any sort of beverages including bottles and boiled water
  • Tips to trekking staff and driver (Tipping is expected; it is recommended to spend 10% of your trip price for tipping)
  • Personal Trekking gear and equipment
  • Any expenses other than the Price Include section

Costs & Dates

Extra Information

1. Domestic Flight 
The flights are often affected by weather conditions and congestion which may cause delays, sometimes even for several days. We request you to ensure that you have planned for spare days to account for moderate delays, but can't guarantee against longer delays which can even affect your international flight.

2. A typical Trekking hours per day 
A typical day revolves around the Nepal sunrise and sunset, instead of any Western time schedule. You’ll be walking 5-6 hrs each day on average.

3. Health Issues 
We recommend you to consult the doctor to discuss the health issues associated with your trek. We also suggest you bring your own personal first aid kit to supplement the comprehensive. Although, the first aid kit is carried by the Trek Leader.

4. Altitude Sickness 
Many treks in Nepal can take you quite rapidly to high altitudes, so you must give your body the time to acclimatize. If you ascend faster than your body can adapt then you will likely start to develop symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Headache is the most common symptom, while nausea, vomiting, fatigue, loss of appetite, dizziness, and sleep disturbances are some others.
The best way to adapt to higher altitudes is to ascend slowly and gradually. The common method is that you should take 2-3 days to reach 3000m. If traveling above this height remember to have extra acclimatization days.

5.Safety and security 
You can have Travel Insurance while trekking which is the safest measure. However, there are some measures following which you can implement to ensure safety: 

  • Secure your belongings 
  • Do not flash cash or jewelry 
  • Have an emergency plan 
  • Do not trek alone 
  • Only choose authorized trekking agencies 

6. Insurance 
We recommend you to have an appropriate insurance policy that covers travel in such isolated and mountainous areas, and also includes helicopter rescue from a trusted agency. We recommend you do good research and find a reputable insurance agent or insurance specialist.

7. Recommended Equipment 

  • Trekking boots, thick socks, light socks, camp shoes.
  • Down or fiber Jacket, waterproof jacket and trousers, sweater or fleece jacket, warm cotton trousers, shirts and T-shirts, shorts, long undergarments, woolen hat, sun hat, gloves, bathing suit, tracksuit.
  • Sleeping bag (4 seasons), down jacket, day pack, water bottle, sun cream, sunglasses, flashlight with spare bulbs and batteries, lip salve, gaiters.
  • Insect repellent, toiletries, laundry soap, pocket knife, towel, sewing kit, plasters, binoculars, camera, film, cards, and personal medical kit.
     

Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Your personal budget will totally depend on your spending habits and things that are included in your trip. If accommodation is included, but meals are not, it is suggested to bring around 30 USD per day per person for meals. Having a hot shower or charging your device sometimes might cost you extra. You might also like to but some crafts/souvenirs along the trekking route for which you have to bring extra cash. 
 

The decision to rent a porter is up to you and typically decided by your level of fitness and/or budget. However, one porter can be shared between two people and may carry up to 25 kg. Many trekkers prefer to hire a porter to possess a more comfortable trek.
 

To do the Trek, you need a legitimate passport, a tourist Visa, two passport-size photographs for trekking permits and travel insurance which is very essential.
 

 

Usually, your guide advises you to go to the toilet in the tea houses before leaving to prevent the need to go during the trail. However, you may come across a few houses along the trail, which will let you use their toilet. But incase of an emergency you will have to go in the wild if there are no houses nearby.
 

You can find various ways to access the web. If you have purchased a SIM card, you will be able to use data to access the internet. However, the network connection for both communication and internet access might not be consistently good. As you progress higher, the connection may get weak. You will be able to get Wi-Fi service from the tea houses, but please expect to be charged for this.And last but not the least; you can also purchase an Everest Link Card which is very popular in these region for its fast and reliable internet service. 
 

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