Annapurna circuit trek with Tilicho lake

16 Days
  • Kathmandu
  • Kathmandu
  • Strenuous
  • Annapurna Manang, Mustang
  • Adventure/Active
  • 12+
  • Private and Group
  • Fully Guided
  • Instant Booking
  • 5416 meters
  • March-May and Sep-Nov

Overview

Tilicho Lake as well as the adjacent Annapurna mountains make for a stunning trekking combo. The Thoronga La Pass (5,416m/17769ft) and Tilicho Lake (4,919m / 16,138ft), one of the highest lakes in the world, are undoubtedly the highlights of this hike. With this trek, you may witness more than a dozen magnificent mountains, including Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Mt. Annapurna I (8,091 m), Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m), Mt. Annapurna II (7,937 m), Mt. Annapurna III (7,555 m), Mt. Annapurna IV (7,525 m), and Mt. Annapurna south (7,134m).

Trekking through the Annapurna region is one of the most rewarding ways to see the Himalayas and their diverse flora and fauna, stunning landscapes, holy temples and monasteries, waterfalls, climate zones, cultural practices, high passes, deep gorges, and Tilicho Lake among the world’s highest lakes).

Highlights of the Trek

  • Pass by the yak pastures
  • Natural hot springs at Tatopani where you can choose to take a dip
  • Jomsom - the headquarter of Mustang
  • A day at tourist hub Pokhara
  • Spectacular views of Mt. Annapurna, Thorung Peak, Nilgiri, Chulu West, and Chulu East, Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV
  • Visit the beautiful Manang district
  • Magnificent lakes, glaciers, deep gorges, and stunning waterfalls
  • Visit Muktinath (a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists) known for 108 stone faucets, and eternal flame
  • Cross Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters
  • Visit Barge Monastery, the largest monastery in the Manang district

Itinerary

Altitude: 1,350m/4,428ft.

Upon arriving in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, we will welcome you with warm greetings. Therefore, you will be transferred to the hotel. We will have a briefing session in the evening and preparation for the trek followed by a good rest.

A jeep drive starts from Kathmandu. On the way stop for lunch and take in the mountains that are following you on the other side of the river! The journey is an interesting one as it travels along a winding road above the Trishuli River flowing far below. Overnight in Besishahar.

Today is another day on the road. But this time not as smooth as yesterday! Five hours of a bumpy ride over a rough road is tough, even if the vehicle is a four-wheel drive. Overnight in Chame.

Time for the trek to begin. After breakfast hike from Chame, Manang District Headquarters to Pisang. Walking through the left of the valley and through apple orchards, the trail crosses a suspension bridge and uphill to Dhikurpokhari village. From here Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, and Pisang Peak are on view. Overnight in Pisang.

There are two ways the trail goes today, so you can choose whether to go high above the valley on the right. Or take the trail on the left. The scenery is of villages and a monastery.

Once you reach Humde, the landscape becomes more dry. On both trails the mountains are stunning: Annapurna III, Chulu Peak, Gangapurna, and Khangsahar can be clearly seen. Near Manang, there is a Chorten (Buddhist shrine) and a long mani wall (wall with Buddhist payers carved into the stone). Overnight in Manang village.

Today it is recommended you take a day to acclimatize to the high altitude. And the best way to do that is not to rest, but to remain active. There is a 5-6 hour hike to Ice Lake (4,600m/ 15,088ft). On the way, you can see the Marsyangdi Valley as well as the mountains. Overnight in Manang.

Today’s trek takes you on a relatively easy path through pine forests to the Tibetan village of Khangsar. The mountains accompanying you today are mainly Gungang Himal and Mt Chulu. A short walk further on and you reach Siri Kharka where you overnight.

From Tilicho Base Camp the views of Tilicho Peak and other mountains are amazing! Today the trail takes you through areas prone to landslides so extra care must be taken. Overnight at Tilicho Base Camp.

This morning get up early to avoid the afternoon wind. The first part of the trail is a steady climb up to Tilicho Lake. This icy cold lake sparkling in the sun lies below the North Face of Tilicho Peak. Relax and enjoy a picnic lunch around the lake before hiking back to Siri Kharka where you overnight.

Today walk passed the old Khangsar village, which is now empty of inhabitants. Also pass Tare Gumpa, which is said to be 1,000 years old. Descending in the Thorong Khola Valley, cross the river then hike up to a plateau. On the way, the Annapurna range is stunning against the blue sky.

Blue is also the color of the sheep you may see also. Well, they are called Blue Sheep, although perhaps they are not really blue in color! Overnight at Yak Kharka.

Thorang Phedi is a busy settlement where people set off over the high pass. Get a good night’s sleep as you will also set off early in the morning to cross the Thorong La.

In order to go over the pass before the afternoon winds, it is recommended you get up around 4 am. If you can, eat breakfast to give you fuel for the climb or take snacks with you.

Today the walking can be hard; there can be snow on the pass and the altitude is high (5,416m/ 17,764ft). Once over the pass descend to Muktinath. Remember to take a breath to enjoy the scenery, particularly the Dhaulagiri Massif. Muktinath is famous for its 108 water spouts, Hindu temple, and never dying flame.

You can explore Muktinath this afternoon or simply relax and do that tomorrow. Overnight in Muktinath.

Spend the morning exploring the sights and sounds of Muktinath if you did not do so yesterday. Then take a bus or jeep to drive along the rough road above the Kali Gandaki Gorge to Tatopani. There are famous hot springs at Tatopani where you can relax before dinner. Overnight in Tatopani.

Take a jeep or bus to Pokhara. Overnight night in Lakeside of Pokhara where you can relax in many of its vibrant bars, restaurants, and clubs.

Includes/Excludes

Cost Includes

  • Airport pickup and drop by car/van/bus
  • TIMS cards
  • Entry permit
  • Meals during trek (breakfast/lunch/dinner)
  • Experienced local guides and porters
  • All accommodation during the treks
  • Local vehicle transfers to and from trekking.
  • Medical supplies (first aid kit) with regular check up of oxygen saturation.
  • Insurance for your guide and porter as per state law.

Cost Excludes

  • Any food, deserts and accommodation during your stay in Kathmandu.
  • Travel medical insurance and emergency evacuation cost.
  • Nepal entry visa fee and International air fare.
  • Personal equipment.
  • Tips for guide and Porter (Tipping is expected)
  • Personal expenses such as: Alcoholic beverages, hot shower, water bottle, cold drinks, hot water, battery charge and donation. etc.
  • Extra night food and accommodation due to any reason.
  • Any other expenses which are not mentioned on ‘price included’ section

FAQs

Trek difficulty

The journey to Tilicho Lake on the Annapurna Circuit is a difficult part of the trek. The average day of trekking lasts between four and seven hours, with stops to take in the breathtaking scenery. Annapurna’s trekking routes have lengthy ascents, sharp descents, and relatively flat terrain. Experience hiking is a plus, but you don’t need any special training or knowledge to do this. Those with a reasonable daily hiking time of 5-6 hours can accomplish the Annapurna Trek with Tilicho Lake. Always keep in mind that higher altitude hiking is more physically taxing than lower altitude trekking.

If you jog and exercise consistently for a couple of weeks leading up to your trip, your stamina will increase, and you’ll have a much better time on your walk. If you want to embark on the Annapurna circuit trip that includes a visit to Tilicho Lake, you need to be in good health, have above-average fitness, and have plenty of optimism, self-assurance, and resolve. If any of your group members have a history of cardiovascular, respiratory, or circulatory issues, please let us know before you book the journey.

Best Seasons

Annapurna and Tilicho Lake trip is weather-dependent. Some seasons are best for hiking. Spring and fall’s clear sky, temperate temperatures, and absence of precipitation or clouds provide stunning vistas. Higher heights and cold conditions make the trip harder. Nepal’s summer monsoons are similar to those in the U.S. Some hikers enjoy both the summer and winter Annapurna Circuit Trips.

Spring (March to May) has nice temperatures, minimal precipitation, and bright skies, making it excellent for an Annapurna trek to Tilicho Lake. Thousands of trekkers visit Annapurna this season. High elevation temperatures range from 8 to 0 C. Lower levels have better weather, making the trip enjoyable. June through August is Nepal’s summer, although the monsoon season is in full swing (rainy season). Even in warm weather, walkways will be muddy and treacherous. Monsoon season runs from late June until early August. In the mountains, daytime highs average 23°C and nightly lows 5°C. Even at this time of year, the sky might be bright in the morning and cloudy by afternoon. Rain makes the hiking area’s plants bloom, creating a rich, attractive scene.

Fall trekkers flock to Tilicho Lake on the Annapurna Circuit (September, October, and November). Fall hiking is fantastic because of cooler temps, less wind, clearer skies, and less rain showers. Monsoon season finishes in early September, and temperatures are pleasant to warm. High heights can reach 20°C during the day and 5°C at night. The monsoon greens turn golden/amber, giving a striking contrast against the azure skies. The air is clean, grain is mature, and the lowlands are green. Dashain and Tihar are also celebrated at this time. Winter treks include Annapurna and Tilicho Lake (December–February). In this season, Tilicho lake’s high altitude might reach -10°C. Late December through early February is coolest. Late February and early March saw a steady rise to -5 °C. This is the best time to visit the mountains since the sky is clear and there are less people on the paths. Veteran hikers will enjoy every step of the trail.

People and Lifestyle

Annapurna Circuit is widely admired for its dazzling natural scenery and rich cultural variety. The village of Annapurna is home to people of many various faiths, ethnicities, and social classes. Separate cultures and languages have developed among these peoples. There are adherents of pre-Buddhist faiths in addition to Hinduism and Buddhism. The region is home to people of many different faiths.

Buddhism is the dominant cultural and religious ideology among them. They celebrate Tamu Lhosar, which is a significant celebration. According to the Gregorian calendar, January is the time to celebrate Tamu Losar. During this time, loved ones get together to rejoice. They eat and drink just what is native to their culture. They host cultural celebrations and festivals, and they often visit Buddhist shrines. Traditional garb is common during these gatherings.

It’s also worth noting that the Loba people of Lo Manthang are a sizable ethnic minority. There was no contact between the Loba and the rest of the world. Lo Mathanga, also known as the Hidden Kingdom, is where they live, and it has only just been made accessible to the outside world.

Heritage and landscapes

This hike is full of excitement as it passes through Manang’s untamed wilderness and dry landscapes. During the trip, visitors will get to see the stunning highlands, complete with peaceful lakes and lively valleys. Famous cultural and religious landmarks in the area will be highlighted throughout the journey.

Hikers on the Annapurna Circuit will be treated to stunning vistas of the Himalayas and beautiful valleys. Those who are able to visit Tilicho Lake will be pleased by the sight of the turquoise lake’s crystal clarity. As soon as we reach the peak, we’ll get a 360-degree panorama of the Himalayan range, including the Annapurnas, Gangapurna, Manaslu, and Dhaulagiri. We will also see glacial moraines, rugged slopes, and lush valleys.

Flora and Fauna

The Annapurna Circuit hike provides a breathtaking view of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhre, and Tukuche, as well as many more gorgeous peaks in the backdrop. There are several rhododendron and orchid woods along the route, and in the spring, the entire landscape takes on a vibrant crimson tint thanks to the blooming rhododendrons.

In addition, you may spot many various kinds of animals, such as snow leopards, mountain thars, jackals, blue sheep, and a range of bird species, such as the colorful Impeyan, kokla, blood pheasant, as well as butterflies and insects. There are over 450 different kinds of birds and 9 different kinds of rhododendrons native to this area, along with the 100 different kinds of animals. The crystal-clear Tilicho Lake, a riot of wildflowers, and the towering peaks of the Himalayas can all be seen from this rocky but gorgeous path.

Recommended Gears for the Trek

The Annapurna Basecamp Trek can be appropriate and pleasant if you are geared up with a proper packing list. Therefore, being prepared with the packing list prior to the trek comes in handy.

The necessary packing list for the trek are mentioned under the following points:

Clothing

  • Jackets (Windproof or Down)
  • Waterproof outerwear
  • Thermal wears
  • Woolen hat or cap
  • Pair of gloves
  • Shoes
  • Tracksuits and trouser
  • Trekking boot
  • Towel

Equipment

  • Bags
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Water bottle
  • Camera, binocular and mobile phones
  • Extra batteries or power bank
  • Water purifier tablets
  • Headlamp and torch
  • Trekking Sticks
  • Lighters
  • Whistle
  • Toilet papers and tissue papers

Conclusion

The Annapurna Circuit with the explorable excursion to Tilicho Lake is one of the most well-known treks in the world due to its remarkable blend of natural beauty and cultural diversity. This trekking route is fantastic due to its beautiful natural scenery and the adrenaline-pumping experiences it provides its hikers. Major attractions in the Annapurna Circuit include the high mountain scenery, Himalayan flora and wildlife, traditional communities of many ethnic groups, magnificent landscapes, natural waterfalls, and sacred monasteries.

Trip Reviews

0.0
Rated 0.0 out of 5
0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews)
Excellent0%
Very good0%
Average0%
Poor0%
Terrible0%

There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.

Write a Review

Your email address will not be published.

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Annapurna circuit trek with Tilicho lake
From $1,400
/ Adult
  • Professional Local Guides
  • Customised Trip