Annapurna Circuit Trek With Tilicho Lake

Duration: 15 Days | Trip Photos |

Destination: Nepal
Trip Difficulty: Moderate
Trip Style: Lodge to Lodge Trek
Transport: Private Vehicle / Bus
Food: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel + Teahouses + Lodges
Group Size: Min 2
Max Elevation: 5,416 meters

Annapurna Circuit Trek With Tilicho Lake preview

Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake is a unique blend of two of the most popular adventures in the Annapurna region. This exciting exploration in the north-central part of the Himalayas takes you on an exhilarating journey in the second mainstream Himalayan trekking route in Nepal. At the same time, it also adds the magnificence of the highest pristine lake in the world to your remarkable adventure.

Tilicho Lake Annapurna Circuit Trek circumnavigates the 10th highest peak in the world, Mt. Annapurna (8,091 meters), and also explores the highest lake in the world, Tilicho Lake (4,920 meters). Both of these major destinations in the Annapurna region are two of the most sought-after trekking routes in Nepal, and Marvel Adventure has designed this efficient trekking route to experience routes in a single itinerary plan.

Annapurna region is a popular Himalayan destination in the world thanks to its abundant natural beauty, incredible landscapes, culturally immersive trekking trails, thrilling mountain passes and enchanting mountain views. So, this exciting mix of two significant routes in this remarkable destination known for its cultural and natural magnificence will certainly sum up one of the best adventures in your life.

Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek With Tilicho Lake

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake can be done throughout the year. However, of course, there are seasonal challenges that you have to face on the trekking route, depending on the season of your visit.

If you want to completely avoid any kind of hurdles during your Annapurna Circuit Tilicho Lake adventure, we suggest you to set the date for peak seasons. Spring and autumn are the most ideal seasons for a comfortable trekking experience in Nepal.

The weather during these peak seasons is stable, and you can expect to enjoy a magnificent experience under pleasant temperatures. However, both of these seasons have their own specialty that you should consider before setting the date.

Spring is generally known for its lush landscapes and breathtaking views of the Himalayan across the stunning vistas. This is also a perfect timeframe if you are a nature lover and have an interest in wildlife-birdlife. (Temperature averages around 8 °C to 31 °C, from start to end)

On the other hand, autumn is known for having the most suitable climatic conditions, clear-crisp views of mountains, dry trekking trails, and incredible cultural celebrations. If you want to expand the horizon of your exploration and add cultural magic to it, autumn is another top contender on the list. (Temperature averages around 31 °C to 10 °C, from start to end).

Annapurna Circuit Trek via Tilicho Lake Trek Difficulty

Annapurna Circuit Trek With Tilicho Lake is undoubtedly one of the best trekking adventures in Nepal to explore the Himalayas. However, during this trekking trail, as you traverse across the high-altitude circuit trek route and also explore the highest lake in the world, the expedition can be slightly demanding.

But don’t worry; it is not a strenuous journey that needs a certain skill set and experience. In fact, this is one of the moderate-level trekking experiences in the country. You will be able to successfully complete this incredible Himalayan journey even without any experience.

One of the key factors that you have to pay proper heed to in this adventure is altitude sickness. You will commence your exhilarating trekking journey from Ngadi (930 meters) and will have to overcome high elevation points above 4,000 meters in the adventure, like Tilicho Base Camp (4,140 meters), Tilicho Lake (4,920 meters), Shree Kharka (4,050 meters), Yak Kharka (4,120 meters) and Thorong La Pass (highest, 5,416 meters).

Similarly, the total trekking distance of this adventure is around 160 km to 230 km (100 miles to 145 miles). The average trekking distance per day in this exploration is about 5 to 7 hours. Thus, the Annapurna Circuit Trek With Tilicho Lake is certainly a demanding expedition, but these are things that you can easily overcome with a proper preparation mindset.

If you're want a short version trek to experience the breathtaking beauty of Annapurna region, we also offer an Annapurna Circuit 12 Days Trek Itinerary, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Himalayas in a slightly shorter timeframe.

Highlights

Rewarding journey on two of the most sought-after trekking routes in the north-central Himalayan region
Incredible bio-diversity of the Annapurna Conservation Area
High Himalayan pass, Thorong La Pass
Tare Gumba and Bhraga Monastery (over 900 years old)
Significant religious site for Buddhists and Hindus, Muktinath Temple
Breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, Nilgiri, Chulku, Thorung, Tukuche and other surrounding peaks
Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world
Culturally rich trekking trail that passes through the charming Magar, Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi settlements

Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1 Kathmandu [1,400 meters/ 4,593 feet] to Ngadi [930 meters/ 3,051 feet] drive
Elevation Loss: 470 meters/ 1,541 feet
Drive Duration: 6-7 hours
After early morning breakfast, you will get ready for a long day of drive. Although you might expect the driving hours to be boring, it is actually the opposite. Passing across the lush trails, high hills, charming waterfalls, and beautiful settlements alongside the bank of Trishuli River and Marsyangdhi River will be a delightful experience.
Every corner of this day’s drive will amaze you with its spectacular magnificence. After leaving the Prithvi Highway, you will head toward Besisahar and drive past Khudi to reach the beautiful settlement of Ngadi, located on the east side of Marsyangdhi River.
- Meals: BLD
- Accommodation: Tea Houses/Lodges
- Place: Ngadi
- Altitude: 930 meters
Day 2 Trekking from Ngadi to Jagat [1,300 meters/ 4,265 feet]
Elevation Gain: 370 meters/ 1,213 feet
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
You will move along with your exciting trekking route from this day onward. The first stop on today’s trek will be Bahun Danda Village. You will cross a suspension bridge from Ngadi to reach the village and then trek on the gradually descending route that stretches toward Syange.
Enroute to Bahun Danda and Syange, you will pass Ghermu Village. This beautiful Himalayan village will be your lunch stop on this day’s trek. Then, after enjoying lunch, you will trek past the beautiful farmlands and big waterfall to reach the suspension bridge over the Marsyangdhi River.
After crossing the bridge, you will move along the gradually inclining route for about 1.5 hours to reach the Jagat Village.
- Meals: BLD
- Accommodation: Tea Houses/Lodges
- Place: Jagat
- Altitude: 1,300 meters
Day 3 Jagat to Dharapani [1,860 meters/ 6,102 feet] trek
Elevation Gain: 560 meters/ 1,837 feet
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
The second day of your exhilarating trekking trail will take you to even further attitudes. After breakfast, you will trek on a gradual flat trail heading toward Chamche Village (approx. 1.5 hours farther from Jagat). Moving further in your trail, you will be able to able to catch the spectacular view of the Chamche Waterfall, the highlight of the region, right across th Marsyangdi River.
Then, from here, you will trek toward the Tal Village, which is situated on the bank of Marsyangdi. You will enjoy your lunch here, enjoying the stunning visual of the surrounding region. Dharapani is just about 2 hours away from here; you will trek past Karte and cross the landslide area to reach your destination tonight.
- Meals: BLD
- Accommodation: Tea Houses/Lodges
- Place: Dharapani
- Altitude: 1,860 meters
Day 4 Dharapani to Chame [2,670 meters/ 8,759 feet]
Elevation Gain: 810 meters/ 2,657 feet
Trek Duration: 6 hours
As you ascend to higher points of this exploration, you will start seeing the incredible beauty of the Himalayan peaks in your route. You will find the magnificent Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, Manaslu, and Lamjung Himal looming over you on today’s trail.
Leaving Dharapani, you will first follow the gradual trail for about 2 hours to reach Danakyu Village. You will then switch trails toward the steep section and follow the inclining route to reach Timang Village, which is on the lap of Lamjung Himal.
The path up ahead from the village is relatively leveled as you move along the bank of Marsyangdi River and trek past Thanchowk and Koto to reach Chame. At Chame, there is a natural hot spring, you can take a refreshing dip here to wash away your fatigues.
- Meals: BLD
- Accommodation: Tea Houses/Lodges
- Place: Chame
- Altitude: 2,670 meters
Day 5 Trekking from Chame to Lower Pisang [3,200 meters/ 10,498 feet]
Elevation Gain: 530 meters/ 1,738 feet
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
After breakfast, you will trek on the gradually ascending route that goes across the banks of the Marsyangdi River and Manang Valley. The views of the Himalayan peaks start getting even more enchanting as you climb to even further elevation. Gangapurna, Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, and Annapurna IV are the major highlights of this day’s adventure.
You will trek for about 2 hours from Chame to reach the Bhratang Village. This high-altitude settlement is famous for its apple garden; there are also several cafes and a bakery here for a rejuvenating experience.
The path further up ahead then leads you to Dhikur Pokhari. This lunch destination on today’s trek offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Pisang Peak. From here, you will trek along your ascending route to reach Lower Pisang, your resting point today.
- Meals: BLD
- Accommodation: Tea Houses/Lodges
- Place: Lower Pisang
- Altitude: 3,200 meters
Day 6 Lower Pisang to Manang [3,519 meters/ 11,545 feet] trek
Elevation Gain: 319 meters/ 1,046 feet
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Leaving Pisang, you will continue with your ascending route and head toward the Ghyaru Village [3,670 meters/ 12,040 feet] during the initial part. This village is situated at a higher elevation point than Manang and rewards you with the breathtaking views of Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, Pisang Peak, Chulu Peak, Annapurna I, Annapurna II and Annapurna IV.
You will then cross a wooden bridge over Marsyangdi to reach Ghyaru Village. A short descent from this point leads you to Ngawal Village. This will be your lunch stop today, and you can enjoy the incredible views of Chulu East Peak and Chulu West Peak from here.
As you move further in your trekking trail, you will descend to the Bhraga Village. This village houses a 900-year-old monastery, Bhraga Monastery, and several other old stupas. The path further ahead leads you through Mungji, and in about 3 hours, you will finally reach Manang.
- Meals: BLD
- Accommodation: Tea Houses/Lodges
- Place: Manang
- Altitude: 3,519 meters
Day 7 Rest day at Manang
This is an important day in your Himalayan journey; you will use this day to acclimatize to the rising altitude before trekking over other high-elevation points of this adventure. You can do some short hikes around Manang during the morning to properly adapt to the new altitudes.
Gangapurna Glacier, Hundered Lama Monastery, Kicho Lake, and Chongkar View Point are some of the popular hiking destinations for acclimatization in Manang. These hiking points will reward you with stunning views of the pristine Himalayan ranges.
In the evening, you can just stroll around this vibrant Himalayan settlement, checking out the cafes, restaurants, and the fascinating lifestyle of this Himalayan town.
- Meals: BLD
- Accommodation: Tea Houses/Lodges
- Place: Manang
- Altitude: 3,519 meters
Day 8 Trek from Manang to Khangsar [3,753 meters/ 12,312 feet]
Elevation Gain: 234 meters/ 767 feet
Trek Duration: 4 hours
This day’s trekking route will lead you close to one of the major highlights of your Himalayan adventure. After breakfast, you will leave Manang, following the western gate that eventually leads you to the riverbed.
You will cross the river and move further with your trekking trail, passing the coniferous forest. After reaching the Khangsar Khola, you will follow the ascending path that leads you to the beautiful Tibetan settlement, Khangsar Village. This day’s trek is relatively shorter, and you won’t gain much altitude in a single day; this will make your adventure tomorrow slightly easier.
- Meals: BLD
- Accommodation: Tea Houses/Lodges
- Place: Khangsar
- Altitude: 3,753 meters
Day 9 Khangsar to Tilicho Base Camp [4,140 meters/ 13,582 feet] trekking
Elevation Gain: 387 meters/ 1,269 feet
Trek Duration: 5 hours
It’s an exciting day’s trek today; on this day, you will explore one of the most popular base camps in the Annapurna region, Tilicho Base Camp. Although the path in this trekking route is relatively easy, you will have to overcome some landslide-prone areas.
Enjoying views of incredible rock formations and enhancing Himalayan peaks, you will also pass a gompa and arrive at the interesting old and new paths. Then, following the new trail, you will descend on the switchbacks of the screed slopes and cross the stream to reach the Tilicho Base Camp.
- Meals: BLD
- Accommodation: Tea Houses/Lodges
- Place: Tilicho Base Camp
- Altitude: 4,140 meters
Day 10 Tilicho Base Camp to Tilicho Lake [4,920 meters/ 16,141 feet] to Shree Kharka [4,050 meters/ 13,287 feet]
Elevation Gain: 780 meters/ 2,559 feet
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
This day’s trek starts with an early morning breakfast; you will hike upto the Tilicho Lake before noon to avoid the high winds. As the altitude gain is significant, make sure to stay hydrated and trek slowly. Overcoming the steep trails, you will reach the pristine glacial lake in about 2-3 hours.
Tilicho Lake is the highest lake in the entire world and is nestled between magnificent peaks like Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Tilicho Peak. After relishing the pristine beauty of this glacial lake to your heart’s content, you will then make your way down toward the Shree Kharka. Your resting destination for tonight.
- Meals: BLD
- Accommodation: Tea Houses/Lodges
- Place: Shree Kharka
- Altitude: 4,050 meters
Day 11 Trekking from Shree Kharka to Yak Kharka [4,120 meters/ 13,517 feet]
Elevation Gain: 70 meters/ 229 feet
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
Today, after completing the exploration of the Tilicho Lake, you will rejoin the classic Annapurna Circuit Trek route. After breakfast, you will first retrace your steps back to the Khangsar Village. You will pass the Tare Gumba en route, which is believed to be older than 1,000 years.
Moving along the rock wall that leads you out of Khangsar, you will enter the Thorong Khola Valley and move along with the gradual ascending route to reach Yak Kharka. If you are lucky, you might even witness the eloped blue sheep and snow leopard on this day’s trekking route.
- Meals: BLD
- Accommodation: Tea Houses/Lodges
- Place: Yak Kharka
- Altitude: 4,120 meters
Day 12 Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi [4,560 meters/ 14,960 feet]
Elevation Gain: 440 meters/ 1,443 feet
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
Moving higher in your delightful Himalayan exploration, during the first part of this day’s trek, you will follow the trail on the east bank of the Jarang Khola. Continuing with your ascending route, you will push for the Thorong Phedi, enjoying the magnificent views of the Thorung Peak, Syagand, Gudang, and Khatungkan.
Thorong Phedi is the last village before the high Himalayan pass and is also home to the endangered Bearded Vulture (Lammergeyer). There is also a mythical belief that magical creature griffons are nestled in this region.
- Meals: BLD
- Accommodation: Tea Houses/Lodges
- Place: Thorong Phedi
- Altitude: 4,560 meters
Day 13 Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath [3,760 meters/ 12,335 feet] via Thorong La Pass [5,416 meters/ 17,769 feet]
Elevation Gain: 856 meters/ 2,808 feet
Trek Duration: 8-9 hours
This day’s trek is one of the most demanding and rewarding adventures in your Annapurna Circuit Trek With Tilicho Lake itinerary. You will begin your trek on this day early in the morning as well to avoid the strong winds at the higher altitudes.
Overcoming the steep and rugged trails, you will reach the top of Thorong La Pass in about 2 hours from Thorong Phedi. You can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks like Annapurna, Gangapurna, Khatungkang, Dhaulagiri, Tilicho, and other surrounding peaks from the top of Thorong La Pass.
Then, you will make your descent from the pass and head toward the religious marvel of the region, Muktinath. This religious site has a significant value in the Hindu and Buddhist religions. It is believed that taking a bath in the 108 water sprouts of the temple will cleanse the soul and free it from sins.
- Meals: BLD
- Accommodation: Tea Houses/Lodges
- Place: Muktinath
- Altitude: 3,760 meters
Day 14 Muktinath to Tatopani [1,190 meters/ 3,904 feet] drive
Elevation Loss: 2,570 meters/ 8,431 feet
Drive Duration: 6-7 hours
Concluding your delightful trekking adventure, you will now follow the descending trail of this circuit trek. You can visit the Muktinath Temple in the morning for blessings and enjoy the serene high Himalayan environment one more time before the descent.
Then, after breakfast, you will drive in a comfortable vehicle heading toward Tatopani. This delightful drive will take you across the scenic landscapes and vibrant settlements of the region. You will also drive past the deepest gorge in the world, Kali Gandaki Gorge, and the bustling Jomsom Bazaar before reaching Tatopani.
You can take a relaxing dip in the natural spring of Tatopani, which is believed to have healing properties, to end this day’s exploration on a high note.
- Meals: BLD
- Accommodation: Tea Houses/Lodges
- Place: Tatopani
- Altitude: 1,190 meters
Day 15 Driving from Tatopani to Pokhara [Pokhara / 2,690 feet]
Elevation Loss: 370 meters/ 1,213 feet
Drive Duration: 6-7 hours
This is the final day’s adventure in your Annapurna Circuit Trek With Tilicho Lake itinerary. Today, you will bid farewell to the magnificent Himalayan region and head toward the major tourist hub of Nepal, Pokhara, the city of lakes.
Enjoying the charming nature of this mainstream trekking region, you will drive past the popular highlights in the region, like Ghorepani, Tikhedhunga, Nayapul, and Birenthati, to reach Pokhara.
After reaching Pokhara, our representatives will drop you back to your respective hotels. You can do exploration of the nearby highlights around the lakes or just take a stroll around this vibrant city for the remaining part of the day. Thank you for trekking with Marvel Adventure. Have a safe journey!
- Meals: BLD
- Accommodation: Tea Houses/Lodges
- Place: Pokhara
- Altitude: Pokhara

What to Expect

What's included

Airport pickup and drop by private vehicle
Standard meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
Government license holder guide with local expertise
Strong and helpful porter with proper equipment (1 porter for 2 people)
Salary, food, accommodation and insurance for guide and porter
Tea house/lodge accommodation during the trek
All land transportation as per itinerary
TIMS (Trekking Information Management System) card
Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) entry permit
One night standard Hotel in Pokhara on a BB basis
Comprehensive first aid kit with oximeter to measure oxygen level daily
Government taxes and official expenses

What's not included

International airfare and taxes
Nepal entry visa fee
Your Travel Insurance (compulsory)
All the expenses of a personal nature
Any kind of drinks and desserts during the trek
Tips for guide and porter (Tipping is expected)

PRICES & DATES

Trip Dates	Availability	Price
27 Dec, 2024 - 10 Jan, 2025	Guaranteed	USD 1375

Request a Private Date

Useful Information

Is Annapurna Circuit Tilicho Lake Trek Suitable for Me?

Is Annapurna Circuit Tilicho Lake Trek Suitable for Me

Tilicho Lake Annapurna Circuit Trek explores two of the major highlights in the Annapurna region. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you should definitely try at least once in life if you are a Himalayan trekking enthusiast. But is this trek suitable for you?

Well, the success rate of Annapurna Circuit Trek is about 98% to 100%, and the success rate of the Tilicho Lake Trek is over 98%. So, most definitely, these two adventures don’t fall under the hard and challenging category in the list of great Himalayan explorations.

Annapurna Circuit Trek via Tilicho Lake is a fun and extensive exploration that has a mild difficulty level, even at high altitudes. If you put effort while training and follow precautionary measures against altitude sickness, this will be a remarkable journey you will treasure your whole life.

Furthermore, you will get to explore two of the major trekking destinations in the Annapurna region with a single itinerary plan.

Preparation for Annapurna Circuit Trek via Tilicho Lake

Annapurna Circuit Trek With Tilicho Lake Trek takes you across the two most popular trekking routes in the Annapurna region with significant altitudes. So, you need to prepare adequately to win over the hurdles in your Himalayan journey.

For high-altitude Himalayan trekking adventures in Nepal, the minimum recommended period for training is 4 to 6 weeks. You can determine a proper training program and effective duration after a thorough physical inspection.

Strength and endurance exercises should be the core part of your training regime, as you will have to trek on the physically demanding high-altitude route. Similarly, you can also include cardiovascular exercise to increase your stamina level and improve your body’s acclimatizing abilities.

Recommended Strength and Endurance Exercises: Squat, Glute Bridge, Plank, Weightlifting, Calf Raise, Bicep Curl, Lunges, Leg Raise, Bench Press, Overhead Press, Upright Row, Dips, etc

Recommended Cardiovascular Exercises: Jogging, Dancing, Jumping Rope, Swimming, Cycling, Power Walking, Stair Climbing, High Knees, etc

What Kind of Food and Accommodation Facilities Are Available?

What Kind of Food and Accommodation Facilities Are Available

During your Annapurna Circuit Trek via Tilicho Lake, you will spend 14 nights at the teahouses/lodges on the route. Most parts of the Annapurna region are accessible by road transport and are quite well developed than other Himalayan regions.

You will rest, enjoying comfortable accommodation facilities in your trek. There are also luxurious accommodation options in the lower regions if you are looking for more amenities than your regular standard package.

There are mostly modern bathroom facilities in the lower regions and traditional squat systems at the higher altitudes. You will be able to use the basic amenities like internet, hot showers, electricity, and charging during your stay, but you have to pay extra for those.

Food

Tilicho Lake Annapurna Circuit introduces you to a diversified variation of meal options during your Annapurna Circuit Trek With Tilicho Lake. The menus at the teahouses include delightful delicacies that represent different corners of the country, other Asian cultural cuisines, and popular dishes from the Western world.

You will at least find a few new menus that will suit your taste in this Himalayan adventure. For breakfast, you can enjoy light dishes like Bread, Toast, Tibetan Bread, Muesli, Corn Flakes, Oatmeal, Pancakes, Pudding, Paratha, Roti, Chapati, etc.

For dinner and lunch, your meal option comprises lavish dishes like Dal Bhat, Thakali Khana Set, Dhindo Gundruk, Chowmein, Momo, Spaghetti, Macarons, Thukpa, Shyakpa, etc. In case if you are wondering about vegan and vegetarian menus, both of these meal options are available at the teahouses.

Health and Safety

Your health and safety will be the top priority of Marvel Adventure regardless of what adventure you choose from us. All of our exploration packages are accompanied by industry-leading experts who have a relevant number of experience in their respective fields.

During your Annapurna Circuit Trek With Tilicho Lake, you will be accompanied by a government-licensed and trained guide. Your guide will oversee all the details of your expedition, including your factors.

Your guide will do a proper inspection of your health condition and check your oxygen saturation level on a daily basis. It is important to keep track of your health while doing a high-altitude adventure so your guide will check how well you are doing at the new altitudes.

We can also arrange supplementary oxygen if needed and a swift evacuation process if necessary with proper coordination with your trekking guide.

But communication is key here. You have to understand that you need to communicate properly with your guide if you have any difficulties or issues. This way, we will be able to take proper measures to resolve them.

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