Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake and Manang Exploration - 16 Days

Tilicho Lake, Khangsar, Nepal - View on map
0 Review
16 Days
Country: Nepal
Region: Annapurna
Max Altitude: 4550m
Group Size: 2-12
Start/End Point: Kathmandu/Kathmandu
Accomodation: Hotel/Teahouse
Meal: All inclusive
Pickup: Airport
Description

The Annapurna Circuit with the Tilicho Lake Trek provides an exceptional outdoor experience for nature enthusiasts to see the highest lake in the world. The 16-day hiking path provides spectators with Himalayan mountain views and cultural diversity alongside distinctive terrain features. The adventurous route takes you through forests before entering deserts, where you arrive at pleasant villages to explore Nepal's diverse cultural heritage.

Adventure-seekers who wish to discover Nepal's native wonders together with its cultural tapestry will find perfect fulfillment through this trek. The tourist trail leads through mountains with white peaks and blue lakes along with ethnic villages. Wandering Trails offers this trek with its comprehensive attractions that include monasteries as well as hot springs and religious sites.

Wandering Trails is prepared to guide you through this remarkable expedition, so contact us now. Wandering Trails provides the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake at affordable prices. You should seize this opportunity to traverse the Annapurna region because the experience will produce everlasting memories.

Highlights:

  • Journey to the highest lake in the world, Tilicho Lake.
  • Hike through varied climatic zones and landscapes.
  • Explore iconic destinations that include Poon Hill, Kagbeni, Pisang, Jomsom, Manang, etc
  • Cross the Thorung La Pass at 5,416 meters.
  • Explore one of the popular sacred sites, Muktinath Temple.
  • Interaction with different ethnic groups like Gurungs, Thakalis, and Manangis.
  • Explore different flora and fauna.
  • Relax in natural hot spring water.

Quick Info:

Destination: Annapurna Circuit Trek, Tilicho Lake

Maximum Altitude: 5,416 m

Difficulty: Moderate-Difficult

Duration: 17 days

Best Season: March to May, and September to November

Accommodation: Included

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Packing List for the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake and Manang Exploration 

Clothing:

  • Pair of Thermal Base Layer
  • One Fleece Jacket/ Pull-over hoodie
  • One Down Jacket
  • Full Body Set Raincoat
  • Two pairs of Trekking pants
  • Water proof Jacket and Pants
  • Hiking T-shirts
  • Warm Cap and Gloves

Footwear:

  • Trekking boots
  • Easy shoes or sandals
  • Synthetic socks
  • Snow gaiters/crampons

Accessories:

  • UV protection Sunglasses
  • Moisturizer and Sunscreen
  • Lights for emergency

Personal Accessories:

  • Water Bottle
  • High protein snacks while trekking
  • Personal hygiene products(Toiletries, medications, wash towel, wet tissues)
  • Towels
  • Head Lamp
  • Micro fleece buff
  • Day bag pack with rain cover
  • Trekking poles
  • Sleeping Bags
  • Sleeping Bag liner

First Aid:

  • Personal Medication
  • Basic first aid Kit

Documents:

  • Passport and Permits Paper
  • Travel Insurance

Extras: (Optional)

  • Camera 
  • Powerbank

Best Seasons to go to Annapurna Complete circuit journey

The best time to hike the Annapurna complete circuit lies within the months of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These are generally the nicest conditions with clear skies and stunning mountain views, so we have decided to hike during this time, for the biggest delight and the highest security.

Spring is the best time to visit this place since the climate is moderate and the hills are characteristic of colorful rhododendron blossoms which greatly enhance its natural beauty. Most of the time the skies are clear and the weather remains consistent, thus it is one of the most opportune times to enjoy the amazing panoramas over the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare mountains.

Autumn is the most popular season for this trek. The sky is still crystal clear after the rain. This permits you to get remarkable views of snow-capped peaks. The temperatures are neither too high nor too low, which makes it a perfect time for the trek. The trails are always bustling with trekkers from different parts of the world, and the local villages are bright with cultural celebrations like Dashain and Tihar festivals.

Trek Difficulty

The difficulty level of this trek is around moderate to strenuous which requires a good level of physical fitness. One of these challenging parts involves the climb of 5,416m at Thorong La Pass, which is a tough physical feat. The path goes through villages that belong to Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi tribes, where hikers can become part of the local life by taking part in traditional events, seeing old monasteries, and inhaling the vibe of a Mediterranean-influenced culture.

Heritage and Landscapes around Annapurna 

The Annapurna region is a place full of cultural traditions and scenic diversity. The trail routes through villages of the Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi people, each with its rich traditions, lifestyle, and architecture. One of the most holy places of the Journey is Muktinath Temple, which is a favorite pilgrimage place for both Hindu and Buddhist people.

Flora and Fauna of Annapurna Region 

The Annapurna region being located at varying altitudes and climates allows for the presence of a wide range of native flora and fauna. The lower areas such as subtropical forests have the densest stands of rhododendrons in the oaks and pines. With the elevation change, the vegetation becomes grassy and shrubby alpine plants.
Various species of wildlife are also protected in the region. While walking through thick vegetation, travelers can not only see long-tailed macaques, musk deer, and Himalayan black bears but also can encounter other animals while they are going up to higher altitudes such as blue sheep, the Himalayan tahr, and marmots. If you are exceptionally fortunate, you might also get to see a snow leopard in the shadows that only approaches the peaks of Annapurna when they are covered in snow.

Conclusion

The 17-day Annapurna region journey, including a visit to Tilicho Lake, offers an experience that will reach your heart and soul. The journey starts in the active city of Kathmandu as you set yourself up for the upcoming trekking adventure. While departing from the city, you immediately observe that the world transforms into serene forest paths that embrace natural scenery.

The trek grants you opportunities to acclimate to high altitudes as well as wind down and relax. Travelers can experience the mountain peace and pure air of Manang. The trek takes you to visit holy sites along with opportunities for hot spring relaxation and witnessing Tilicho Lake, which stands as one of the world's highest lakes.

Wandering Trails ensures your safety and happiness throughout your entire journey. Your trekking adventure will grant you excellent photos together with the profound bond with nature and cherished lifetime memories that you bring home.

Price Includes
Airport Pick up and drop from Tribhuwan International Airport, Kathmandu
Provision of Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) cards
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek.
All accommodation during the treks
Free luggage stored at Wandering Trail Adventures store during the trek
An experienced & qualified English Speaking Guide Including his food, lodge, transportation, salary, insurance equipment
An experienced porter shared with two individuals including his food, lodging, transportation, Salary, insurance, and equipment.
*Shared Transportation from Kathmandu to Besisahar and Beshisahar to trek start point Chame.
Shared Transportation from trek end point Jomsom to Pokhara.
Deluxe Tourist Sofa seater bus from Pokhara to Kathmandu.
2-night hotel at Kathmandu ,1-night hotel at Besisahar, 1-night hotel at Pokhara with Breakfast*
Government VAT & official expenses
Price Excludes
Any extra food & desserts during your stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara
No coverage of Travel medical insurance and emergency evacuation costs
Self-payment for Nepal entry visa fee and International airfare
Personal expenses such as Alcoholic beverages, donations, tea, coffee, cold drinks/hot drinks, premium lodge etc.
Extra Personal equipment needed for the trek
Tips for guide and Porter (Tipping is expected)
All the personal expenses such as Hot showering at lodges, water bottle, hot water, battery charge, Wifi, etc.
Gadgets charging fees at tea houses

Complimentary Items

Company T-Shirt
Trek Completion Certificate
Souvenir
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu

These Trekking Gears are provided by the company for rent:

Crampons
Sleeping Bag
Pair of hiking poles
🌿 Clean As We Go – Leave Only Footprints

At Wandering Trail Adventures, we believe in protecting the beauty of nature. As part of our "Clean As We Go" campaign...

Itinerary

Your adventure in the Himalayas begins as you land at Kathmandu’s international airport. When you arrive at Kathmandu International Airport, a Wandering Trail representative will welcome you. After check-in, the representative will transport you to a tourist vehicle, leading you to your hotel accommodation. Upon completing your long travel, you can relax and be fresh in your comfortable room. After relaxing, if you feel energetic, you can go out to discover the busy streets of Kathmandu. In the evening, you can visit the Wandering office for a brief session of trek. Your guide will explain, and they will answer all questions while assisting with essential gear. We spend the day sightseeing in Kathmandu and preparing for the extraordinary upcoming adventure. Relax in the environment because the upcoming expedition promises to be an unforgettable experience. The real journey begins tomorrow.

Kathmandu 1,355m Arrival Day

From the second day, you will start your journey. In the morning, we will drive you to reach Besisahar. While traveling, you can have panoramic sightseeing including green hills together with the Marsayangdi River and the extensive terraced fields. You will spend the night in Besisahar during this day.

Drive from Kathmandu 1,355m to Besisahar

Your third day of travel starts from Besisahar. The trail begins with forest walking which lets you enjoy fresh air. After walking for almost 5 hours in the forest, you will reach Chame. Chame will be the end of this day. This day you will stay in the teahouse.

Drive from Besisahar 760m to Chame 2,650m

Today's journey will give you excitement and wonder. The journey takes you through pine and rhododendron forests, where you will always find the Marshyangdi River next to you. The trail starts from Chame, where it first extends as a flat terrain that allows you to take in the peaceful ambiance. After walking for some time, you will reach the suspension bridge. After the suspension bridge, the path initiates an effortless ascent. The higher you climb, the better the view becomes because you will witness spectacular vertical cliffs. After some more walking, you’ll reach Dhikur Pokhari. Here, you can take a break, relax, and appreciate the views. After taking a break, the trail continues onwards. Again, you have to cross a suspension bridge. After crossing the bridge, you will start walking uphill until you reach Upper Pisang. The Annapurna mountain range finally appears in view as you continue your ascent. After walking for several hours, you will reach Upper Pisang. After reaching Upper Pisnag, you can have extraordinary views of the Himalayan peaks. You can pause to appreciate the white-tipped peaks, which should be your main focus at this moment. On this day you will stay in Upper Pisang.

Trek from Chame 2,650m to Upper Pisang

On this day, you will begin your trek early in the morning. Apart from the picturesque landscapes and welcoming community experiences, your trek will stay fascinating throughout. You will begin your trek through the upper trail. On the way, you can visit Ghyaru and Ngawal villages. Throughout the path, you can see magnificent views of the Himalayas. As you gain altitude, you will get colder and drier air. During the journey, you can learn how the residents practice their religion and what customs they follow. After walking for several hours, you will reach Munchi village. As you approach Manang, you can see Buddhist shrines and colorful prayer flags. Your path becomes more meaningful through these tiny yet significant aspects. After walking for several hours, you will reach Manang. The Annapurna Circuit contains Manang as its biggest settlement, where numerous trekkers stop for a visit. The village provides excellent rest facilities along with exploration opportunities and supply procurement services. Today, you will stay in Manang.

Trek from Upper Pisang 3,300m to Manang 3,540m

This day will be your rest day at Manang. This day will help your body to adapt to high-altitude conditions before you proceed to Tilicho Lake. In the afternoon, you can go to the Gangapurna Lake area to explore. In the lake area, you can have magnificent sights to enjoy. The lake rests peacefully while mountain ranges and rugged hills encircle it. From this location, you can have extensive views of different mountains. If you want to do something adventurous, you can go to Ice Lake or Base Camp. The locations beyond these spots provide breathtaking views of both mountains and surrounding landscapes. Spend your time at this location while breathing in mountain air and giving your body time to adapt to the altitude changes. The day serves to unwind before you start your next adventure stages.

Acclimatization at Manang 3,540m

This day's trekking route will give you proper scenic beauty. Leaving Manang behind, you will walk downward to reach a river. Then, you will cross the river. After crossing the river, you will trek in a forest area. Throughout your journey, you will experience a revitalizing combination of pine fragrances and natural environmental sounds. After walking for three hours, you will reach the Tibetan village of Khangsar. Here, you can take a break for some time and experience the Tibetan way of life. When you pass through Khangsar village, you can find a silent sanctuary in the form of an old monastery. The path will direct you to Siri Kharka. While hiking, you can see excellent views of different mountains. The journey to Siri Kharka leads through towering peaks, during which you can stop to savor relaxation and serenity in a peaceful area. After walking for several hours in the evening, you will reach Siri Kharka. Siri Kharka will be the endpoint of the day. Today's trek, which seamlessly blends natural beauty with cultural sites and magnificent mountain vistas, will enrich your Annapurna Circuit trip.

Trek from Manang 3,540m to Siri Kharka 4,060m

You will begin your day at dawn by setting out from Siri Kharka toward Tilicho Base Camp. Walking along the narrow trail will become exhausting, although it lacks steepness or significant difficulties due to unstable ground. Walking demands extra attention because landslides are possible in some sections. The scenic views will motivate you during your hike. On the path, you can see stunning views of Tilicho Peak alongside extraordinary natural rock shapes that appear as though shaped by nature. While you travel on this path, your journey will be memorable. You will spend most of your day traveling this demanding path to arrive at the valley. You will cross a small creek before arriving at the Tilicho Base Camp. In Tilicho Base Camp, you will rest for the night. Take a deep breath and cherish this moment since you have successfully reached Tilicho Base Camp. The next day will bring you additional exploration through this magnificent destination.

Trek from Siri Kharka 4,060m to Tilicho Base Camp

Among all the days of your Annapurna Circuit Trek, today stands out as the most thrilling because it brings you to the magnificent Tilicho Lake. When traveling from Tilicho Base Camp toward Tilicho Lake, you must begin before daytime winds gain strength. Your hike along the steep trail will take you 2–3 hours to reach Tilicho Lake, which ranks among the highest lakes in the world. The trail passes through yaks and deer, which graze peacefully in both higher and lower spots. The stunning appearance of Tilicho Lake will welcome you when you finally arrive at its location. The enormous lake finds its resting spot within the spectacular surroundings of Tilicho Himal, Annapurna Range, and Nilgiri Himal. Tilicho Lake holds a special place in Hindu religious history. You will spend the night in Siri Kharka after enjoying the spectacular landscape views. This day will create indelible memories of majestically watching nature unfold.

Visit Tilicho Lake 4,920m and Trek Back to Siri Kharka 4,060m

The Annapurna Circuit journey continues to the Tilicho Lake Trek. Our expedition begins at Siri Kharka and then follows the path to Yak Kharka. While trekking, you can witness breathtaking locations that combine geographical marvels with cultural landmarks. You will follow the same route that leads to the small settlement of Kangsar. You will come across Tare Gumba. Walking out of Khangsar leads you to the Thorang Khola Valley. A seasonal bridge enables you to reach a broad open plateau. The grandeur of the Annapurna mountain ranges extends far across the surrounding landscape. After walking for a little time, you will reach Yak Kharka. You will stay tonight at Yak Kharka. Yak Kharka provides you with an amazing resting spot that offers fantastic vistas of the Annapurna peaks. You will finish today's trek with a blended experience of adventurous travel and cultural exploration as well as a natural connection that will create lasting memories before starting your upcoming adventure.

Trek from Siri Kharka  4,060mto Yak Kharka 4,018m

You will proceed with the Annapurna Circuit Tilicho Lake Trek after enjoying breakfast. Firstly, you have to walk on the Lidar. As you walk on the trail, you can see the proper view of different Himalayas. After walking for some time, you have to descend to reach the Marsyandhi River. After reaching the Marsyandhi River, you have to cross a wooden bridge. On the trail, you have to cross many small teahouses. Here, you can take a rest and admire the natural beauty. After a short rest, you will start your trek along the riverbank. After several hours of walking, you will reach Thorang Phedi. This day's journey ends at this location. You can either rest at the teahouse or hike up to the high camp for nighttime accommodations. Apart from the high camp stay, you have the choice to rest at the teahouse so you can appreciate the panoramic views of mountain peaks and valleys. The Himalayan beauty will encompass you regardless of your choice between these options because the day will stay unforgettable. Enjoy the entire amazing experience by taking your time to breathe in the mountain air.

Trek from Yak Kharka 4,018m to Thorang Phedi 4,550m

The Annapurna Circuit recognizes today's trek as its most demanding stretch. You will start your trek from Thorang Phedi or Thorung High Camp to reach Thorung La Pass. To reach Thorung La Pass, you have to climb. While climbing, you can have amazing views of different peaks. You have to walk properly during climbing. After reaching Thorung La Pass, you can take a break at this remarkable Himalayan location to experience both rest and picture-taking and sightseeing in the mountain range. After resting, you have to descend to reach Muktinath. The descent requires more time but provides easier leg comfort than the ascent. After descending for several hours, you will reach Muktinath. In Muktinath, you can visit a lot of nearby places. In Muktinath, you can bathe in 108 water taps and two sacred ponds. You can also visit the Dhola Mebar Gompa temple. Muktinath creates an ideal environment for relaxing alongside its spiritual essence, which serves as the perfect ending to an active trekking day. Acquiring both physical fatigue and strong satisfaction marks your completion of crossing the world's highest pass while reaching its deeply religious site. On this day you will stay in Muktinath.

Trek from Thorang Phedi 4,550m to Muktinath 3,760m

On this day, your hike ends in the Annapurna region as you begin your journey toward Jomsom. After enjoying breakfast, you will start to descend through the villages of Jharkot, Kagbeni, and Ekle Bhatti. Most of the trail descends steeply, so Jomsom becomes accessible with less effort than in earlier days. You will encounter marvelous scenery on your journey until you reach the Kali Gandaki River. The trail continues to a windy valley, which leads to the town of Jomsom. Jomsom serves as both the Mustang administrative headquarters and a cultural center for the Thakali people and traditional salt traders. While standing at Jomsom, you will experience spectacular mountain views. The trek ends at this tranquil spot, allowing you to enjoy the natural splendor of the Himalayas. On this day, you will encounter both effortless walking downhill and demanding ascents, culminating in your ultimate destination. Spend your time viewing the landscapes and feel pride in your achievement as you complete your trek in the Annapurna region.

Trek from Muktinath 3,760m to Jomsom 2,720m

We will spend 7–8 hours traveling by road from Jomson to reach Pokhara today. Our trip leads to several picturesque locations; therefore, prepare to experience a combination of thrilling activities and peaceful rest. Jomson serves as our starting point to reach Tatopani, which attracts tourists because of its thermal hot springs. Taking a bath in the warm waters at this location provides you with an excellent opportunity to unwind and restore your energy. The expedition follows the hot springs experience before we proceed to Beni Bazaar through Jomsom. The trip leads from Beni Bazaar to Pokhara, which showcases peaceful lakes and awe-inspiring perspectives of mountains. After your arrival, you will register at your lakeside hotel before taking time to freshen up. During your available free time in Pokhara, you can admire the city's picturesque sights.

Drive to Pokhara 822m

Today brings the completion of your remarkable Annapurna Circuit trek. You will board morning transportation buses from Pokhara to Kathmandu. While driving, you can see some of Nepal's most beautiful sights. The tour follows the Marsyangdi River before moving to the Trishuli River while passing through the villages of Damauli and Dumre. The journey exposes you to breathtaking sights that combine open hills with glittering river streams and pristine mountain peaks. When you reach Kathmandu, one of our staff members will greet you to provide hotel transportation. The last evening of your Nepalese journey will allow you to discover Thamel, which offers shopping opportunities, delicious dining options, and a warm ambiance to enjoy. Your memorable journey comes to a perfect end through this delightful experience.

Drive from Pokhara 822m to Kathmandu 1,355m

Our team will organize a transportation service from your final day until your airport departure. We will provide service to drop off at your location three hours before your scheduled flight departure. To maximize your remaining time before departure, we can organize a brief activity for you if your flight departs later in the day. Your own exploration time in nearby areas is possible if you choose to see things independently at your preferred speed. The staff will handle every detail to ensure a smooth process after you share your departure plans. Safe travels!

Final Departure

Add-ons & Options

Flight Ticket
Kathmandu to Pokhara - USD 100
Enjoy a seamless transition from Kathmandu to Pokhara with a flight ticket that includes airport transfers.
Pokhara to Kathmandu - USD 105
Return to Kathmandu from Pokhara with ease, as this flight ticket also includes airport transportation.
Location
FAQs

Wandering Trails is a certified travel company. We have a year of experience with knowledgeable staff and guides.

No, there are no age restrictions, but you have to be physically fit to complete the trek. Even the children and elderly people have completed the trek.

Yes, it is completely safe. You have to take care while walking in the snow part because you can slip there.

The best time to perform this trek is from mid-September to May and from the end of September to December. You can perform this trek throughout the year, but in this season you can enjoy it a lot.

Yes, you can cancel a tour once you've booked it, but you'll need to review the cancellation policy and inform us.

Yes, you need two types of permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area project permit and the Trekkers Information Management System permit.

Yes, it is suitable for beginners. Just prepare your body and gain strength. Before a month of trekking, exercise and run regularly.

Yes, you can see different mountain ranges and small peaks during the trek.

The maximum altitude you gain in Thorang La Pass will be 5416 m.

You can suffer from altitude sickness, or you can slip in the snow part. So take precautions during this.

Yes, you can interact with different ethnic groups. You can especially interact with Gurung, Thakali, Magar, etc.

You can see different wildlife on the trek. Some of them are snow leopards, red pandas, and Himalayan tahrs.

Yes, female travelers can trek solo. Nepal is one of the safest nations for females and tourists.

The total distance of the Annapurna Circuit trek is between 160 and 220 km.

Transportation depends on your group size. You can travel by bus, flight, jeep, van, bike, etc.

Yes, you can extend your days during the trek. For that, you have to inform the guide and wandering office. You will incur an additional fee.
Reviews

0/5

Not Rated
From 0 review
Excellent
0
Very Good
0
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
No Review
You must log in to write review
SAVE 1%
From $1.500 $1.475
Tour Start Date
{{ start_date_html }}
Tour End Date
{{ end_date_html }}
Last Booking Date
{{ last_booking_date_html }}
Start Date
{{start_date_html}}
Guests

Extra prices:

({{type.price_type}})
{{type.price_html}}
({{type.price_type}})
{{ type.price }}%
{{ formatMoney(type.price) }}
  • {{total_price_html}}
  • {{pay_now_price_html}}
from
$1.500 $1.475
0 Review