Himalayan Escape
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Himalayan Escape

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek

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Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek
Days
18
  • Best price guaranteed
  • No booking fees
  • Book Now, Pay Later
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Max. elevation
5418 m / 17775 ft
Group size
Min 1+
Level
Moderate
Transportation
Flight and All ground transportation as per itinerary
Best season
Mar - May, Sep - Nov
Starts at / Ends at
Kathmandu / Kathmandu
Accommodation
Hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara and Lodge / Tea House during trek
Meals
All meals during the trek

Highlights

  • Stunning panoramas of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare, and other towering peaks.
  • Trek to the mesmerizing high-altitude Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world.
  • Experience rich cultural diversity, from Gurung and Thakali villages to Buddhist monasteries and Tibetan influences.
  • Conquer the challenging and rewarding Thorong La Pass (5,416m), the highest point of the trek.
  • Relax and rejuvenate in natural hot springs.
  • From subtropical forests to alpine meadows, and arid Tibetan-like terrain, experience a wide range of ecosystems.
  • Encounter diverse wildlife, including the Himalayan tahr, snow leopards, and various bird species.
  • Warm welcomes from local communities along the trail, offering a chance to experience authentic Nepali hospitality.
  • A perfect combination of physical challenge and awe-inspiring natural beauty for trekking enthusiasts.
  • Knowledgeable and experienced guides from Himalayan Escape Adventure ensuring safety and an enriching experience.

Overview

The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is one of the most popular and thrilling trekking routes in Nepal, offering an unparalleled adventure amidst the towering peaks of the Annapurna and Manaslu regions. This trek combines the traditional Annapurna Circuit, renowned for its scenic beauty and cultural diversity, with a detour to the stunning Tilicho Lake. The lake, located at an altitude of 4,919 meters, is one of the highest lakes in the world, surrounded by spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, including Mount Annapurna and Tilicho Peak. The trek provides trekkers with an opportunity to experience diverse landscapes, from subtropical forests and terraced fields to alpine meadows and high-altitude desert-like terrain.

Starting in the lowlands, the route gradually ascends through various villages, including Besisahar, Chame, Manang, and eventually reaches the Tilicho Base Camp. After a challenging hike to Tilicho Lake, trekkers continue on the circuit, crossing the Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters), one of the highest trekking passes in the world, before descending into the Kali Gandaki Gorge. The trek offers a rich cultural experience, with encounters with local Gurung, Magar, and Thakali communities, providing trekkers with a deep insight into the traditional lifestyle of the mountain people. Himalayan Escape Adventure ensures that trekkers enjoy this amazing journey with expert guides and the best trekking support.

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trekking Permits
To explore on the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek, trekkers are required to obtain a few specific trekking permits. The two primary permits for this trek are the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card. The ACAP is mandatory for all trekkers traveling within the Annapurna Conservation Area, which is a protected region offering spectacular biodiversity and cultural heritage. The TIMS card is essential for monitoring trekkers and ensuring their safety during the trek. These permits can be easily obtained through Himalayan Escape Adventure, who will handle all the paperwork, allowing you to focus on your trek without any hassles.

Additionally, if you plan to reach Tilicho Lake, an additional permit is required specifically for accessing the high-altitude areas around the lake. Himalayan Escape Adventure provides all necessary documentation and ensures that the permits are arranged efficiently before your trek, saving you time and effort. With our experience and local knowledge, we ensure all trekking permits are up-to-date, and you can trek with peace of mind, knowing your journey complies with local regulations.

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trekking Difficulty
The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is considered a challenging yet rewarding trek, suited for trekkers with moderate to high levels of fitness and experience in high-altitude trekking. The trek involves steep ascents, significant altitude gains, and crossing the Thorong La Pass, which stands at 5,416 meters above sea level. The challenge of the trek is primarily due to the altitude, with the risk of altitude sickness at higher elevations, particularly around Tilicho Lake and the Thorong La Pass. However, with proper acclimatization and careful pace management, most trekkers with average fitness can successfully complete the trek.

While the trek does require physical endurance, the route is well-established and includes ample resting days, such as the day spent in Manang for acclimatization before tackling the high-altitude sections. Himalayan Escape Adventure ensures that trekkers are well-prepared for the challenges, offering detailed pre-trek briefings, professional guides, and necessary gear. With the guidance of our experienced team, the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is achievable for any determined and well-prepared trekker.

Best Time for Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek
The best time to explore on the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is during the pre-monsoon (spring) season, from March to May, and the post-monsoon (autumn) season, from September to November. During these months, the weather is generally stable, with clear skies, moderate temperatures, and minimal rainfall, providing the best conditions for trekking. The spring season sees blooming rhododendron forests along the route, while the autumn season offers crystal-clear views of the surrounding peaks, making both times ideal for photography and sightseeing.

Although the trek can be completed year-round, winter (December to February) can be particularly harsh, with freezing temperatures, heavy snow at higher altitudes, and difficult trail conditions, especially near Tilicho Lake and Thorong La Pass. The summer monsoon season (June to August) is also not ideal due to the risk of landslides and heavy rainfall in the region. For a safe and enjoyable trekking experience, Himalayan Escape Adventure recommends trekking during the spring or autumn months when the weather is most favorable for high-altitude adventures.

Why Choose Us - Himalayan Escape Adventure
At Himalayan Escape Adventure, we are committed to providing you with a safe, memorable, and authentic trekking experience in Nepal. With years of experience organizing treks in the Annapurna region, our team of professional guides, porters, and staff ensures that your Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek goes smoothly from start to finish. We prioritize your safety, comfort, and satisfaction, offering personalized services, well-maintained trekking gear, and well-planned itineraries that allow for adequate acclimatization and rest.

We take pride in our deep knowledge of the local culture, and we work closely with local communities to ensure a sustainable and responsible trekking experience. From obtaining permits to arranging accommodations, transportation, and meals, we handle all the logistics so you can focus on enjoying the trek. Our commitment to providing high-quality services, safety, and customer satisfaction sets us apart as a trusted trekking company in Nepal. Choose Himalayan Escape Adventure for an unforgettable journey through the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake and explore the stunning beauty of the Himalayas with expert support every step of the way.

Trip Itinerary

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative from Himalayan Escape Adventure will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. You’ll have time to rest and refresh after your flight. If you arrive early, you can explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, a bustling tourist hub, or simply relax at the hotel. In the evening, we will gather for a briefing about the trek and preparation for the upcoming adventure.

Today, you’ll explore some of Kathmandu’s most iconic cultural sites. Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple, each offering a unique insight into Nepalese culture and spirituality. After sightseeing, we’ll have a pre-trek meeting to finalize any arrangements and ensure you're fully prepared for the trek. You can pick up any necessary gear in the vibrant shopping areas around Thamel.

After an early breakfast, we will drive from Kathmandu to Syange/Jagat. The journey takes us through scenic rural landscapes, winding roads, and terraced fields, eventually leading to the charming village of Syange. The road conditions can be challenging, but the views of the surrounding mountains and river valleys will keep you captivated. Upon arrival, we’ll rest and prepare for the start of our trek tomorrow.

Today, we begin our trek on the Annapurna Circuit. The trail follows the Marsyangdi River, passing through beautiful villages, forests, and terraced fields. The path gradually ascends, providing stunning views of the surrounding peaks. After approximately 7-8 hours of trekking, we reach Dharapani, a thriving village where we will spend the night and acclimatize to the higher altitude.

This day’s trek takes us through pine forests and beautiful valleys, with glimpses of the towering Annapurna range. We cross several suspension bridges, pass small villages, and ascend gradually to the town of Chame, the administrative center of the Manang district. The views of Lamjung Himal and the surrounding peaks are breathtaking. Tonight, we rest in Chame, enjoying the serene environment.

The trek today takes us through more picturesque landscapes, with a mix of pine forests, alpine meadows, and traditional stone houses. We pass through the village of Bhratang before continuing towards Pisang. As we approach Pisang, we’ll get our first close-up views of the majestic Annapurna II and III peaks. It’s a shorter, easier day, allowing you to acclimatize as we gain altitude. We’ll stay in Pisang for the night.

This day’s trek takes us higher up the valley towards Manang, the gateway to the high Himalayas. The trail offers stunning views of Annapurna II, III, IV, and Gangapurna, as well as spectacular landscapes. As we approach Manang, we’ll pass through the village of Upper Pisang, with its monasteries and traditional stone houses. The journey takes around 5-6 hours, and upon arrival in Manang, we’ll settle in for an overnight stay and continue our acclimatization.

Today is a rest day in Manang to help you adjust to the higher altitude. You can explore the village, visit the local monastery, or hike to the nearby viewpoint for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. This rest day is crucial for acclimatization and will prepare you for the higher altitudes we’ll encounter in the coming days.

After acclimatization, we begin our trek to Shree Kharka. The trail gradually ascends through alpine forests, offering great views of the surrounding mountains. We pass through several small villages and cross streams, making our way up to Shree Kharka, a small settlement at a higher elevation. The trek takes around 5-6 hours, and upon arrival, we’ll enjoy a peaceful evening in the village.

Today’s trek is a bit more challenging as we make our way towards Tilicho Base Camp. The trail ascends steadily through a combination of rocky paths and meadows. The views of the Tilicho Peak and surrounding ranges are awe-inspiring. After a 5-6 hour trek, we arrive at Tilicho Base Camp, where we will rest and prepare for the next day’s excursion to Tilicho Lake.

Today, we explore on an exciting journey to the high-altitude Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world. The trail is a tough one, with rocky terrain and steep ascents, but the sight of the turquoise lake surrounded by towering peaks makes it all worth it. After spending some time at Tilicho Lake, we’ll retrace our steps back to Shree Kharka for an overnight stay.

Leaving Shree Kharka, we continue our trek towards Yak Kharka and then ascend to Ledar. The trail meanders through alpine meadows, with the occasional sight of grazing yaks. Ledar is a small settlement, and we’ll rest here to adjust to the increasing altitude. The trek today takes about 5-6 hours, and we’ll enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Ledar.

Today, we continue our ascent to High Camp, passing through Thorang Phedi. The trail becomes more challenging as we gain altitude, but the views of the Annapurna range and surrounding peaks will keep you motivated. The trek takes around 5-6 hours, and upon arrival at High Camp, we’ll rest and prepare for the big day tomorrow, crossing the Thorong La Pass.

Today, we will cross the famous Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit at 5,416 meters. This is the most challenging part of the trek, but the sense of achievement upon reaching the top is unparalleled. From the pass, we descend to the sacred town of Muktinath, an important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. After a long but rewarding day, we’ll rest in Muktinath.

After visiting the Muktinath Temple, we descend to Jomsom, passing through the village of Lubra. The trail is mostly downhill, and the scenery is marked by arid landscapes and views of the Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri peaks. The trek today takes around 4-5 hours, and upon arrival in Jomsom, we’ll enjoy a well-deserved rest in this bustling town.

We take a scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, one of Nepal’s most beautiful cities. The flight offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan range, including Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you can relax by Phewa Lake, visit the Peace Pagoda, or explore the many cafes and shops. This is a perfect place to unwind after the challenging trek.

Today, we drive back to Kathmandu. The journey offers beautiful views of rivers, terraced fields, and traditional villages. Once in Kathmandu, you can spend the rest of the day at leisure, perhaps doing some last-minute shopping or visiting any remaining sites in the city. In the evening, we’ll have a farewell dinner to celebrate the successful completion of your trek.

Today marks the end of your Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek. Depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your return journey home. Thank you for choosing Himalayan Escape Adventure—we hope to see you again on your next adventure!

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Includes

  • Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara (as per itinerary) with breakfast.
  • Teahouse accommodations during the trek.
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek.
  • Welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu.
  • Airport transfers in Kathmandu.
  • Domestic flight and all ground transportation as per itinerary.
  • Annapurna Conservation Area entry permit.
  • TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card.
  • Experienced, English-speaking trek guide.
  • Porter(s) to carry luggage (1 per 2 trekkers).
  • Trekking map and group medical kit.

Doesn't Include

  • International flights to/from Kathmandu.
  • Nepal entry visa fee.
  • Mandatory travel insurance (including emergency rescue).
  • Personal trekking equipment.
  • Personal expenses (laundry, calls, internet, etc.).
  • Alcoholic beverages and bottled water.
  • Additional meals and beverages not specified.
  • Tips for trekking staff.
Why Book with Us?
  • Excellent customer service. Our travel experts are ready to help you 24/7.
  • Best price guaranteed.
  • No credit card or booking fees.
  • 100% financial protection.
  • Environmentally-friendly tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is one of the most scenic and challenging treks in the Himalayas. It combines the iconic Annapurna Circuit with a detour to the mesmerizing Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world. This trek offers a unique experience, passing through lush subtropical forests, traditional villages, alpine meadows, and high-altitude deserts. It allows trekkers to enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges while acclimatizing at higher altitudes before reaching the serene Tilicho Lake, situated at an altitude of 4,919 meters (16,138 feet).

The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is considered moderately difficult due to the varying altitude and the technical challenges of high-altitude trekking. Trekkers should have a good level of fitness and some experience in trekking at altitudes over 3,000 meters (9,843 feet). The trek involves long days of walking, challenging ascents, and the crossing of the Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters/17,769 feet), one of the highest trekking passes in the world. While this trek is accessible to dedicated beginners, it is more suitable for trekkers who are physically fit and prepared for high-altitude conditions.

The best times to trek the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake are during the pre-monsoon (spring) season, from March to May, and the post-monsoon (autumn) season, from September to November. During these periods, the weather is typically stable, and trekkers can enjoy clear skies and stunning views. The temperature is moderate, and the trekking conditions are generally favorable. The winter months (December to February) can be extremely cold, with snow and ice making the trail more challenging, while the monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rain, leading to slippery and sometimes dangerous trails.

The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek generally takes around 16 to 18 days to complete. The duration depends on your acclimatization schedule, walking pace, and the specific route chosen. Himalayan Escape Adventure tailors the itinerary to ensure you have adequate rest and acclimatization days to reduce the risk of altitude sickness. The trek typically involves walking for about 5 to 7 hours a day, with rest days included at key points to adjust to the altitude.

Some of the main highlights of the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek include:

Stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges:You’ll be treated to some of the most breathtaking panoramas of the Himalayas.

Tilicho Lake: This high-altitude alpine lake, located at 4,919 meters, offers a surreal and beautiful experience.

Thorong La Pass:The crossing of this challenging pass is an unforgettable achievement, providing spectacular views and a sense of accomplishment.

Cultural diversity:The trek takes you through a variety of villages, from lush subtropical areas to the dry Tibetan Plateau, where you’ll experience the culture and traditions of local ethnic groups like the Gurungs, Thakalis, and Tibetans.

Diverse ecosystems:You’ll pass through forests of oak, rhododendron, and pine, alpine meadows, and barren high-altitude desert landscapes.

You will need to bring essential trekking gear such as sturdy hiking boots, a warm sleeping bag, a good-quality jacket, thermals, a hat, gloves, trekking poles, and a daypack. For high-altitude trekking, it's recommended to pack layers of clothing for warmth and wind protection, including a down jacket for the colder mornings and nights. Additionally, you’ll need a water bottle (or hydration system), a first aid kit, personal toiletries, a headlamp, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Himalayan Escape Adventure provides a detailed packing list before departure to help you prepare adequately.

While it is possible to trek the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake independently, it is highly recommended to hire a licensed guide and porter, especially if you are unfamiliar with the terrain or trekking in the Himalayas. Himalayan Escape Adventure provides professional, English-speaking guides and experienced porters to ensure your safety, comfort, and enjoyment during the trek. The guides are well-versed in the area, its culture, and safety protocols, and porters will carry your gear to make your trek more enjoyable. Their assistance will also help with navigation, especially in remote areas.

The trek usually starts in Besisahar - Syange or Jagat, which is accessible from Kathmandu by a 6-8 hour drive. Himalayan Escape Adventure arranges private transport from Kathmandu to Besisahar to kick off the adventure. Depending on your itinerary, there may be some flexibility with transportation, but the drive provides stunning views of the countryside and offers a glimpse of local life before heading into the mountains.

Altitude sickness is a potential risk when trekking in high-altitude regions like the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake. The trek ascends gradually, and Himalayan Escape Adventure’s itinerary is designed to provide adequate acclimatization days to help prevent altitude sickness. It’s important to stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and ascend slowly. If any symptoms of altitude sickness occur, the guides are trained to manage the situation and will take necessary steps to ensure your health and safety, including descending to a lower altitude if needed.

Booking with Himalayan Escape Adventure is simple. You can visit our website or contact our team directly via email or phone. Once you express your interest, our team will provide a detailed itinerary, answer any further questions, and guide you through the booking process. We offer group departures and private treks, depending on your preferences. A deposit will be required to secure your spot, and the balance can be paid prior to or on arrival in Nepal.

The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek package from Himalayan Escape Adventure includes:


All necessary permits, including TIMS and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).

Experienced guide and porter services.

Transportation from Kathmandu to the trailhead and back.

Accommodation in teahouses or lodges during the trek.

Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) while on the trek.

Trekking permits and necessary documents.

A first aid kit and oxygen bottle for emergencies.

All local taxes and government fees.

The following are not included in the trek package:


International airfare to and from Nepal.

Travel insurance (which is mandatory).

Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, souvenirs, etc.).

Any additional accommodation or meals in Kathmandu.

Tips for guides and porters (which are appreciated).

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