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Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake takes you through mountain villages, high passes, forests, rivers, and the remote Tilicho Lake route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The trek combines the main Annapurna Circuit trail with a side trip to Tilicho Lake (4,919m) and crosses Thorong La Pass (5,416m), the highest point of the journey. Along the route, trekkers pass through places like Pisang, Manang, Khangsar, and Muktinath with wide views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and Chulu Himal.
Read our 30 reviews on Tripadvisor (opens in a new tab)The Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake are adventures around the remote corners of the northern range of the Annapurna Himalayas. A great, wonderful adventure: the Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake trek, an exciting combination. Covering most scenic areas of high, beautiful Manang Valley, enclosed by tiers of jagged giant snow peaks.
The trail changes constantly from green hills and pine forests to dry rocky valleys near Tilicho Lake and Thorong La. The trek is physically demanding because of the altitude and long walking days, especially after Manang. With proper acclimatisation, experienced local guides, and a well-managed itinerary, Himalayan Friendly helps trekkers complete the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake safely and comfortably while enjoying both the mountain scenery and local culture along the route.
In the early days, the Annapurna Circuit Trek duration was longer than three weeks. But, at present can be covered in two weeks or less, due to the easy assistance of motorable tracks. This extends to Manang Village from Kathmandu or Pokhara via Besisahar Town. Similarly, a road has been built from Muktinath and Jomsom Town onwards to Pokhara. Nevertheless, the Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake trekking with the glorious views remain the same.
A marvellous adventure starting the walks from Dharapani village, reaching the Manang areas, to reach Chame. The headquarters town of Manang district, the trail follows the Marsyangdi River upstream, right up to its glacial source at Manang. Where our wonderful walk heads after Chame to enter the picturesque valley of Manang, surrounded by mighty Himalayan peaks.
Manang with extra days for acclimatisation and short hikes around its scenic viewpoints, as well as exploring the traditional village. Full of charm adorned with age-old cultural heritage and customs similar to its Tibetan predecessors.
After Manang village, the adventure leads away from the main Annapurna Circuit route, heading towards a remote,, beautiful country. To reach the stunning Tilicho Lake of great beauty, well hidden by towering peaks of Gangapurna Himal and Tilicho Peaks. Tilicho Lake is the world’s highest glacial Lake with its striking scenery of arid terrains and snow-capped peaks.
Tilicho Lake is revered by the Hindu and Buddhist followers as one of the holy lakes, which is mentioned in the ancient language, Sanskrit, of the sacred mythological story called the Puranas. From Tilicho Lake,, after a great mind-blowing experience, head back to join the main trail of Annapurna Circuit Trek 15 Days.
The walk then leads to the end of Manang Valley in Phedi and High Camp to cross Thorang-La Pass. The highest point of the adventure is surrounded by incredible giant Himalayan Snow Mountain ranges with Annapurna, Damodar Himal, and Chulu. Includes grand vista of Dhaulagiri Himal, as far as Manaslu Himalayas towards east directions. After jubilant moments with spectacular scenery, the trail follows a long descent. Reaching around Mustang areas at Muktinath, another holy site after Tilicho Lake.
Revered as the holiest of holy sites for Hindu pilgrims, from Muktinath downhill to Kaligandaki River Valley. The walk then reaches a lovely town at Jomsom for the last final overnight halt. The next morning a sweeping short panoramic flight takes you to beautiful Pokhara by its serene Phewa Lake side. A perfect and wonderful place to conclude our marvelous adventure to the Annapurna Circuit & Tilicho Lake Trekking.
With 150+ successfully guided trekking journeys, 300+ happy travellers worldwide, and more than 8 years of Himalayan trekking experience, Himalayan Friendly offers a well-organised Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake experience focused on safety, comfort, and local expertise. From arrival in Kathmandu to the final day in Pokhara, our team manages the trekking logistics so you can focus on the journey.
During the trek, you can expect:
The itinerary is designed to make the trek more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable while experiencing the best of the Annapurna region.
The best seasons for the Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake Trekking are spring and autumn. Spring begins from March to May, most days are clear for fine views, but can get cloudy in the afternoon sometimes. Cold morning, late afternoon, and nights with chances of snow around Tilicho Lake and Thorang-La Pass.
The next best time is autumn or fall, one of the peak seasons for this adventure. As well as all around the Himalayan destinations. Autumn starts with the monsoon of September and lasts till November. Where days are bright and clear for stunning views of peaks and pleasant walks. But gets dark soon due to limited hours of sunlight, with cold mornings and late afternoons till nighttime. Can expect snowfall in the highest areas above 2,800 m sometimes.
On arrival at Kathmandu airport received our Himalayan Friendly guide and staff. A short drive to your hotels around the hub of Kathmandu at Thamel area, an exciting place. After checking into your lovely rooms join other members
of Annapurna Circuit & Tilicho Lake Trekking, for a briefing. Provided by our guides or leaders of Himalayan Friendly.
Information of needful things to expect on treks and in Pokhara and Kathmandu, with other necessary details. Evening a welcome dinner, in a pleasant authentic Nepalese Restaurant with culture programs. While you enjoy the famous and national food of Dal Bhat in a luxurious way to have a first night dinner.
A free day with options for sightseeing tours around places of interest. Kathmandu is steeped with famous World Heritage Sites of great wonders, where Hindu and Buddhist religions blend in perfect harmony. After an interesting tour, preparation for Annapurna Circuit & Tilicho Lake trekking.
Early in the morning, we will leave Kathmandu towards Syange via Besisahar. The road is winding and follows many hilly settlements until we make an appearance at the Besisahar. From there, Khudi is just a couple of kilometers away, but the road is very much rough. Once you arrive at Khudi, explore the local village and enjoy the views of lush hills all around.
After a refreshing stop at Tal continue the walk to reach the much cooler area at Dharapani for an overnight halt, Dharapani is a nice large village on the junction of the Annapurna and Manaslu route
Instead of catching the dirt road, you will follow the NATT (Natural Annapurna Trekking Trail) trails over the hills that demand you to cross a suspension bridge. Then, the trail crosses another river through the bridge to arrive at the plateau. Here, a line of Chortens and Mani walls shows you the path ahead to the Danakyu. From there, a steep ascent leads you towards the village of Tamang. Through the beautiful village of Thanchowk, built on the ridge, proceed towards the classic settlement of Chame through the village of Koto. Chame offers some of the best views of the Himalayan ranges.
From here onward air gets cooler as the walk gets closer to the mountains through a beautiful forest of rhododendrons and pine trees, following Marsyangdi River upstream to Bhratang village. As walk leads uphill into pine trees to Dukure Pokhari a small place with few lodges and views of Chulu and Pisang peaks, after a lunch stop walk downhill to Pisang village for an overnight stop.
Pisang village is located within Manang Valley with stunning mountain views as altitude gains from here onwards. Walking into a forest with a short uphill with views of Annapurna II and III, Gangapurna Chulu, and Pisang Peak, then reaching Hongde village with a small airstrip, from here tree lines fade to barren, arid landscapes.
On route to Manang village visit the old Braga monastery with Buddhist relics, ancient wall paintings, frescos, and super panorama of Annapurna Himalaya, from here an hour’s walk to Manang village. The houses here are of traditional Tibetan style with culture and traditions.
An important rest day for acclimatization before reaching high altitude and up to Thorang –la, here with a short hike exploring Manang village beneath towering Annapurna and Gangapurna peaks, a nice short hike up for views of Gangapurna Glacier and the Manang glacial Lake.
From Manang village after a nice pleasant stay, a morning walk takes you away from the main Annapurna circuit trail heading towards Tilicho Lake, as our route leads to a fresh new path past Manang large village, with some downs and ups to reach Khangsar for overnight stop, the last permanent village of Manang area.
After Khangsar with tremendous views of Gangapurna-Tilicho peaks, the walk leads beyond to isolated areas of Manang Valley, as the morning walk leads on a rough path of stones and scree with ups and downs to reach Tilicho Base Camp, which will be one of the highest overnight camps of the adventure at above 4,800 meters high.
Overnight stops in a local lodge with chances of spotting some wild-life like antelopes, musk deer, or elusive snow leopard before walking to Tilicho Lake the next day.
Morning heading towards our main destination beautiful Tilicho Lake within complete wilderness surrounded by the high peaks of Tilicho and Gangapurna Himal, from here onwards around dry country, morning walk downhill for some time, then steep up for a while and then descend to reach emerald Tilicho Lake after a hike of a few hours from base camp.
Tilicho Lake is fed from the glacier of Tilicho and Gangapurna peaks with other lesser mountains and Nilgiri’s peaks, the is a beautiful lake regarded as holy among Hindu and Buddhist religions the spiritual side of the mystical story described in ancient Hindu sacred books.
Here enjoy the fabulous scenery within the lake premises and return to base camp for overnight stops after a marvelous time around Tilicho Lake.
After a fantastic view and enjoyable time around Tilicho Lake and at its base camp, the walk leads back towards Khangsar to reach the main Annapurna circuit trail and retrace the journey back on the same route to Khangsar for overnight stops.
Having glorious and fantastic moments around beautiful Tilicho Lake, morning walk towards the main trail of Annapurna circuit route to reach Thorang-la with overnight at Yak Kharka, an interesting high altitude walks with super views of snowcapped mountains, then crossing a small stream river to reach Yak Kharka, a small settlement with tremendous views of Gangapurna, Annapurna III and Chulu Peaks.
The morning walk leads closer to Thorang-la as the walk progresses crossing a bridge and then a climb along the Jarjung River, leading to Thorang Phedi for a short rest, and then climb the last hour uphill to Thorang High Camp for an overnight stop.
Start the early morning walk for the Big Day! An exciting tough climb uphill for a few hours to reach the top of Thorang-la at above 5,416 m / 17,700 feet, the pass marked with thousands of colorful Buddhist prayer flags. Stand at the highest point of the adventure, and from the top enjoy a super vista of landscapes and snowcapped peaks, from here a long descent to Muktinath at 3,800 m. Muktinath is a holy place for both Hindus and Buddhists the word Muktinath means ‘the place for Nirvana or Liberation’.
After Muktinath, the rest of the journey is easier with an exciting scenic drive all the way downhill a big drop of 1,200m to Kaligandaki River valley, as the ride leads at Kaligandaki River valley, from here heading to Jomsom, the headquarters town of Mustang area with small airstrip above Kaligandaki River, Jomsom and around.
Kaligandaki Valley is famous for its delicious apples and its products cider, brand,y, and juice from its high altitude apples orchard.
Completing our super adventure Annapurna and Tilicho Lake trekking, where an early morning short panoramic flight takes you to scenic Pokhara city and its beautiful valley with serene Phewa Lake, during a short trip on air-facing views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain range as it lands at Pokhara airport and then transfer to your hotel by the lake. An afternoon with time to relax and enjoy a stroll around lakeside with views of Annapurna Himalaya and magnificent Machhapuchare Himal ‘Fish Tail’ the unclimbed and virgin peak of Himalaya.
Morning taking an exciting overland journey back to Kathmandu on route witness Nepalese country farm life as the drive leads past farm villages and towns and then reaching Kathmandu around afternoon, time for individual activities and shopping souvenirs.
(Options for a short flight of 30 minutes from Pokhara to Kathmandu)
Today, last day in amazing Nepal with great experience and fond memories of excellent adventures around Annapurna Circuit & Tilicho Lake trekking, as per your time international flight, our guide and staff transfer you to the airport for your final departure homeward bound or to your next destinations.
Himalayan Friendly provides the best accommodation in the comfort of a tourist standard hotel in Kathmandu. On a 3 Star category Hotels (Kathmandu suite home) in the hub of Kathmandu in Thamel.
One can upgrade the accommodation for 4 or 5-star deluxe standard hotels, on request. When booking with Himalaya Friendly. Which will be at an extra cost.
The hotel in Kathmandu is booked according to our standard itinerary days, in Kathmandu normally will be for 3 overnights. Please remember while in Kathmandu it will be on Bed and Breakfast basis. Includes welcome or farewell dinner only.
Himalayan Friendly accommodates all clients in a lovely tourist standard hotel in Pokhara at Iceland Hotel.
Himalayan Friendly has always been accommodating all the clients in the best comfort of a Tourist Standard Hotel. Which is Hotel Iceland, a perfect location and assist to the lakes and markets within easy reach.
The lodge accommodations after Bhesisar Town, are simple but nice with cozy rooms. Chame Town has nice good lodge accommodation with options for attached bathrooms and toilets. But from Chame onwards till Jomsom, most lodges provide rooms with common toilets and bathrooms. Including en route to Tilicho till Muktinath, due to freezing temperatures where flows of water in the pipeline get frozen.
Best to carry a warm sleeping bag, and then use the blankets from the lodge, for hygiene and to be safe while enjoying the adventures. The lodges with common bathrooms using hot showers will be at extra cost, the price differs from one place to another.
Food in Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake, trekkers will be surprised with a long list of food menu to choose. From Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon snacks and refreshment and main course for dinner. Most lodges provides Continental, Chinese, Indian, Tibetan and the famous, popular meals of Dal-Bhat.
All foods are served in a large warm dining room with a fireplace to keep the environment warm and cozy. But in few places like en route Tilicho Lake and High Camp, the rooms and foods are simple with limited food menu.
All dining have lights run by local hydroelectricity or from private solar power of the lodge. Like in Manang, Chame and Jomsom, trekkers can enjoy fresh bakery products also.
The most common meal is Nepali Dal Bhat, boiled or steamed rice. It is served with mild seasonal vegetable curry, including Dal, a lentil bean soup with homemade pickles, and hot sauce as options. The food menu lists from breakfast, lunch, and dinner to snack items.
Breakfast from oats porridge, including cereals to cornflakes with toast/ chapattis and pancake, with choice of egg variation. Lunch and Dinner with Nepali and Tibetan main course with a choice of soups. The most available food besides Dal, Bhat is noodles, fried with vegetables or eggs or noodle soups. Tibetan Bread made from wheat, millet, or barley flour, and sometimes vegetable dumplings available, and fried or boiled potatoes.
Fresh bakery bread is rare around most lodges around remote areas of Tilicho Lake, but one can order pancakes or chapattis’. It goes well with fresh country honey, jams, and pickles or butter to add along with refreshing hot drinks. Like Nepali Tea, coffee, and drinking chocolate where available.
In the modern days of Hi-Tec world, where all wide-world travelers needs to be connected with the world of social media. The most important on everyday use of internets, cell phones and Wi-Fi gadgets, which makes traveling fun and easier.
In Nepal around big cities, towns and large villages do have all the modem facilities of Internets and Wi-Fi. But on trekking depends upon the region and overnights stops as itinerary days. For Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake Trekking, in most places offers these facilities.
At Bhesisar, Chame and Manang, Muktinath including Jomsom the Internet services with connection. Trekkers can purchase the internet so called packages either in Kathmandu, Bhesisar or Chame Town.
The internets and Wi-Fi services are available in most lodges till Manang unto Jomsom. Some lodges charge extra for using the services. But few lodge offers free services of Wi-Fi, nevertheless one can enjoy the modern facilities along with the grand views.
But remember the internets, Wi-Fi and telecommunications does not run smoothly, can be disturbing and slow. Due to the nature of landscapes terrains in deep gorges or on a hidden valley, as well with the cold and cloudy weather conditions. For best reliable services is to buy 3G to 4 G SIM Card is good for the daily use.
As the weather and the areas permits for smooth connection, on treks your guide will suggest you to buy either in Kathmandu or in Bhesisar Town.
Himalaya Friendly is always safe for our clients on trekking and hiking. Trekking Equipment List which the trekkers will need during their trekking.
Clothing
Head and Hand
Footwear
Personal items
Other gears
Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake is considered a moderate to difficult trek due to the high altitude, long walking days, and crossing Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters. The trail includes steep climbs, rocky sections, and changing mountain weather, especially around Tilicho Lake and Thorong La Pass.
Tilicho Lake is located at an altitude of 4,919 meters (16,138 feet). It is one of the highest glacial lakes in the world and one of the major highlights of the Annapurna region.
Thorong La Pass stands at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet). It is the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek and one of Nepal’s most famous trekking passes.
Trekkers need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) for this trek. Permit requirements may change according to Nepal tourism regulations, so it is always best to confirm before the trip.
Yes, trekking with a licensed guide is currently required for most trekking routes in Nepal, including the Annapurna region. A guide also helps with navigation, safety, and local support during the trek.
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are considered the best trekking seasons. These months usually offer stable weather, clear mountain views, and better trail conditions.
Temperatures can fall below freezing at higher elevations, especially around Tilicho Base Camp and Thorong La Pass. Nights and early mornings are usually much colder than the lower villages.
WiFi is available in many tea houses along the Annapurna Circuit route, including Chame, Manang, Muktinath, and Jomsom. However, internet connections can be slow or unstable in remote mountain areas.
Yes, beginners with good physical fitness and proper preparation can complete the trek. Choosing a well-paced itinerary with acclimatization days is important for a safer trekking experience.
Accommodation is mainly in local tea houses and mountain lodges. Lower regions have more comfortable facilities, while higher-altitude areas offer simpler rooms with shared bathrooms and basic services.
Yes, travel insurance with high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation coverage is highly recommended. It provides important support during unexpected medical or weather-related situations.
Yes, most tea houses provide charging facilities for phones, cameras, and power banks. Some lodges may charge an additional fee for charging devices at higher elevations.
Boiled, filtered, or purified water is recommended during the trek. Many trekkers carry water purification tablets or reusable filter bottles for extra safety
Yes, vegetarian meals are widely available throughout the Annapurna Circuit route. Tea houses commonly serve Dal Bhat, noodles, soups, potatoes, vegetables, pancakes, and rice dishes.
A good level of physical fitness is recommended for this trek. Cardio exercises, hiking practice, stair climbing, and endurance training before the trek can help prepare for the high-altitude conditions.
ATMs are available in places like Besisahar, Chame, and Jomsom, but they may not always work reliably. It is best to carry enough cash from Kathmandu or Pokhara before starting the trek
Yes, Tilicho Lake is one of the most scenic and rewarding side trips in the Annapurna region. The remote alpine landscape, turquoise lake, and surrounding Himalayan peaks make it a memorable part of the trek.
The early symptoms of HAS or High Altitude Sickness with various reactions, such as shortness of breathing, and tiredness. As well as severe headaches, nausea, lack of appetite, and sleepless nights, including drunken behavior. Most important is dehydration, not enough fluid intake.
Yes, it is completely and 100% safe, from Tourist standard, deluxe star hotels to low budget hotels. In Nepal, customers are honored and taken as high guests with the warm hospitality of the Nepali people.
The early symptoms of HAS or High Altitude Sickness with various reactions, such as shortness of breathing, and tiredness. As well as severe headaches, nausea, lack of appetite, and sleepless nights, including drunken behavior. Most important is dehydration, not enough fluid intake.
Yes, only government-registered Authorized Trekking Agencies are allowed to run and organize trekking and tours in Nepal. Also, only licensed guides from the Government and Tourism Department are allowed to lead the treks or tours.
Four of us did the spectacular Annapurna Circuit with Ram as our guide, we felt very comfortable with him leading the way. He was very approachable and his expert knowledge was great to have. if you’re trekking in Nepal, Ram is your man!
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