Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake – 16 Days

Tour Overview

People Interested

0

Location

Annapurna

Durations

16 Days

Trip Grade

Strenuous

Max group size

12

Best Time

Spring and Autumn


Tour Description

The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake is a popular trekking journey that offers an unparalleled experience for trekkers in Nepal. The trek offers a unique opportunity to explore the beauty of the Himalayas and witness the blend of Hindu and Buddhist cultures.

The trek starts with a simple walk that connects Kaligandaki to the Marsyangdi stream valley. However, the real highlight of the trek is Thorong La Pass, the world's widest pass at 5,416 m. This challenging climb is an unforgettable experience for trekkers, who will witness spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhre, and Tukuche. The trail offers a variety of sceneries, ranging from subtropical to alpine terrains, and different cultures, providing a unique experience for trekkers.

The landscape is diverse, with lush paddy fields and oak forests, rough mountain parcels, and the deepest gorge in the world, the Kaligandaki Gorge. The trek takes trekkers through beautiful lakes, glaciers, and gorges, offering an opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of nature.

One of the highlights of the trek is the visit to Lake Tilicho, the highest lake in the world, which is located at an elevation of 4919 m. This pristine lake is surrounded by wildflowers and great Himalayan peaks, making it a sight to behold. The trek to Tilicho Lake is a unique experience that takes trekkers through beautiful landscapes, including crystal-clear lakes, lush wildflower forests, and magnificent views of the Himalayan peaks.

In addition to the stunning natural scenery, trekkers will also have the opportunity to witness the unique mix of Hindu and Buddhist cultures. This cultural blend is reflected in the local architecture, food, and traditions, and is a fascinating aspect of the trek.

The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek is a challenging adventure that offers a unique combination of nature and culture. Trekkers will witness a variety of wildlife, such as snow leopards, mountain Thar, and blue sheep, and several species of birds, butterflies, and insects. This unique combination of nature and culture makes the trek one of the most famous trekking routes in the world, providing an unforgettable experience for all those who embark on it.

Ideal Season for Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trekking

When heading for a hike, one needs to be mindful of the season they decide to go. And what exactly time of year is ideal for Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trekking? Hiking Bees advise you to reserve this excursion for the spring and autumn seasons.

Through splitting these seasons further, spring lasts from March to May. These are pleasant hiking months because of the milder weather. During this season, the flowers are fully bloom, and the pathway is lined with petals and leaves. Autumn, which lasts from September to November, is the second-optimal season. These months are characterized by vibrant clouds and a refreshing atmosphere. Normally, we advise avoiding hikes to Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake in the summer. However, Hiking Bees would be pleased to plan a suitable Himalayan trip to the Annapurna region if your timetable for visiting Nepal is scheduled during the summer.

 

Suggested Preparation: 

To undertake the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trekking, you should have a good level of physical fitness and stamina. You should start preparing for the trek at least 2-3 months before the trek. Some of the suggested preparations include:

Physical Preparation:

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is a physically demanding trek that requires a good level of fitness and stamina. You should start preparing for the trek at least 2-3 months in advance. Some of the physical preparation you can do include:

 Regular exercise: Start doing cardio exercises such as running, cycling, or swimming to improve your endurance and stamina.

Strength training: Incorporate strength training exercises such as squats, lunges, and leg presses to build leg muscles and increase your overall strength.

Altitude training: You can train your body for high altitude by doing stair climbing, hiking, or trekking on nearby hills or mountains.

Mental preparation:

Mental preparation is equally important for as physical preparation. You should be mentally prepared for the challenges of the trek and be positive and determined throughout the journey.

Research: Research the trek, its challenges, and the culture and customs of the region. This will help you to have realistic expectations and avoid culture shock.

Meditation: Meditation helps to calm your mind and improve your mental strength. You can start with short meditation sessions and gradually increase the duration and frequency.

Positive Attitude: Having a positive attitude helps you to overcome challenges and enjoy the journey. You should focus on the beautiful scenery and the experience rather than the difficulties.

How challenging is Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trekking?

The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trekking is the most popular and demanding hiking destination based on the unexplored trekking trails as well as feedback from hikers. Experienced trekkers won't struggle on this walk, but newcomers may encounter some challenges. As this is a high-altitude trek with unpaved roads, normal people can have difficulties in breaking and walking. 

You should plan your trip with warm clothes and comfortable boots for a pleasant hike along with raincoats or umbrellas as the weather of the Himalayan region is mostly drizzly. When in the journey, we are here to ease your hike with the availability of guides, who will give you directions and porters, who will carry your luggage and oxygen cylinders.

So if you are an enthusiast and an adventure-loving person, now is the chance to explore the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek – 16 days with Hiking Bees.

 

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trekking by Hiking Bees

Hiking Bees is a professional Nepalese trekking company with a team of professional guides, who efficiently run a variety of treks and vacations. Locals from the region where you will be hiking serve as our guides and carriers. They are knowledgeable in hike routes and schedules and have received extensive training. Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trekking is unquestionably a fantastic, ideal location for trekkers. We also suggest other shorter alternatives if you're searching for other variations of Annapurna Region Trekking such as Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Jomsom Muktinath Trek (Apple Pie Trek), and the famous Ghorpani Poonhill Trek.

If you are in Nepal for a short interval then You can also head for a Short ABC Trek or other Short Annapurna Circuit Trek.

With Hiking Bees, you can travel anywhere for a reasonable price, capture your precious moments, and enjoy your vacation. You may schedule your upcoming travel with us straight away!!

Tour Highlights

  • Trek through Thorong La Pass, the world's widest pass at 5,416 m.
  • Visit Lake Tilicho, the highest lake in the world.
  • Experience the mix of Hindu and Buddhist cultures.
  • Visit the Gangapurna Glacier and Lake, a surreal ice landscape nestled in the Manang Valley, offering a glimpse into the region's glacial wonders.
  •  Enjoy stunning sunrise and sunset views from various vantage points along the trek, such as Poon Hill, with the mountains bathed in golden hues.
  • Trek through the Annapurna Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and witness the region's rich biodiversity, including rare flora and fauna.
  • Admire the breathtaking views of several Himalayan peaks.
  • Hike to Ice Lake, an off-the-beaten-path gem with pristine waters and panoramic mountain views. It's a serene spot for reflection and photography.
  • Cross the iconic suspension bridges that span deep Himalayan gorges, providing an exhilarating and scenic experience.
  • A sense of accomplishment for completing a challenging trek in the Himalayas.
  • Interaction with local communities and learning about their culture and lifestyle.
  • Trek with a knowledgeable and amiable tourist agent to discover more about your trekking route.

Tour Includes

  • All kinds of transportation services, notably local and shared vehicles.
  • 2 days' lodging plus breakfast at a 3-starred Kathmandu hotel.
  • Double-split lodge-to-lodge accommodation throughout the hike.
  • Breakfast, day meal, and supper are all included in the full board hike package.
  • One incredibly skilled, accommodating, and kind guide, one porter (1 porter for two individuals), and all of the staff's meals, lodging, and so on.
  • Administrative fees and governmental taxes.
  • Emergency Rescue Arrangement service which your travel insurance will fund.
  • All the necessary equipment (Down Jacket, Duffle Bag, Sleeping Bag).
  • Hot bag for a goodnight's sleep.
  • Energy Supplements (Cookies, chocolate bar, etc.) once a day.
  • Farewell, dinner in a typical Nepali kitchen.
  • First-aid supplies including an oxygen meter to check pulse rate.
  • Seasonal fruits as a dessert after dinner.

Tour Excludes

  • Your entrance visa and international travel costs.
  • Meals not listed in the "Daily food Inclusions".
  • Personalized hiking kit.
  • Traveling insurance.
  • Tips for porter and Guide.
  • Drinks, snacks, water as well as other individual needs and expenses.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 : Landing at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu

Meals : Welcome Drinks

At the Kathmandu airport's arrival zone, staff from our service will be waiting for you with your nameplate. Once you arrive, the staff will greet you and take you to your accommodation in Kathmandu. A description of our arrangements will be provided to you by the hotel when you check-in.

Highest Altitude : 1,860m/6,102ft
Trek Duration : 8-9 Hrs drive
Meals : B,L,D

After having breakfast, we will drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani. The road passes through scenic villages, lush green forests, and beautiful landscapes. We will also cross the Trishuli River, which is a famous spot for white-water rafting in Nepal. After a long drive, we will reach Dharapani, a beautiful village located in the Manang district. Overnight stay in Dharapani.

Trek Distance : 15.5 km / 9.6 miles
Highest Altitude : 2,670m/8,760ft
Trek Duration : 5-6Hrs
Meals : B,L,D

After a couple of days of ascending to higher altitudes, it is important for us to take a break and acclimatize to the high altitude. Acclimatization is crucial to prevent altitude sickness, which can be life-threatening in extreme cases. Manang is a perfect place for acclimatization as it offers a stunning view of the Annapurna range and is located at an altitude of 3,540 meters. We will spend the day exploring the beautiful town of Manang, visiting the local monastery, and experiencing the unique blend of Tibetan and Nepalese cultures.In the afternoon, we will take a short hike to Gangapurna Lake, which is located at an altitude of 3,800 meters. The lake is surrounded by stunning snow-capped peaks, making it an ideal spot for photography. The hike to Gangapurna Lake will help us acclimatize to the high altitude and prepare us for the rest of the trek. In the evening, we will return to our teahouse in Manang for a warm meal and a good night's sleep.

Trek Distance : 15-16 Km
Highest Altitude : 3,115m / 10,200ft
Trek Duration : 5-6 Hrs
Meals : B,L,D

From Chame, the trek proceeds through an open area and a narrow valley until you reach a massive rock called Paungda Danda Rock, which is considered sacred by the locals. The rock rises 1,500m from the Marshyandi river and offers stunning views of Annapurna II in the south and Pisang Peak in the northeast. Just before reaching Pisang, the path descends to the Manang Valley floor. Overnight stay at a hotel in Pisang.

Trek Distance : 17 Km
Highest Altitude : 3,540m/11,614ft
Trek Duration : 6-7 Hrs
Meals : B,L,D

Today, we will start our trek from Chame to Manang. The trail passes through dense forests of pine and rhododendron and offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Lamjung Himal ranges. We will also cross several suspension bridges over the Marsyangdi River. Manang is a beautiful village that is popular among trekkers for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. Overnight stay in Manang.

Meals : B,L,D

After a couple of days of ascending to higher altitudes, it is important for us to take a break and acclimatize to the high altitude. Acclimatization is crucial to prevent altitude sickness, which can be life-threatening in extreme cases. Manang is a perfect place for acclimatization as it offers a stunning view of the Annapurna range and is located at an altitude of 3,540 meters. We will spend the day exploring the beautiful town of Manang, visiting the local monastery, and experiencing the unique blend of Tibetan and Nepalese cultures.In the afternoon, we will take a short hike to Gangapurna Lake, which is located at an altitude of 3,800 meters. The lake is surrounded by stunning snow-capped peaks, making it an ideal spot for photography. The hike to Gangapurna Lake will help us acclimatize to the high altitude and prepare us for the rest of the trek. In the evening, we will return to our teahouse in Manang for a warm meal and a good night's sleep.

Trek Distance : 9km
Highest Altitude : 3,745m/12,287ft
Trek Duration : 3-4 Hrs
Meals : B,L,D

After a hearty breakfast, we will continue our trek towards Khangsar. The trail takes us through beautiful meadows, small streams, and lush forests. Along the way, we will have stunning views of the Annapurna range, including the Annapurna II, III, and IV peaks. The trail is relatively easy, and we will stop for short breaks to take pictures and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Khangsar is a small village that offers a unique blend of Tibetan and Nepalese cultures. The village is surrounded by beautiful mountains and has a peaceful and serene atmosphere. We will spend the night in a teahouse in Khangsar, enjoying a warm meal and a good night's sleep.

Trek Distance : 8-9 Km
Highest Altitude : 4,200m/13,780ft
Trek Duration : 5-6 hours
Meals : B,L,D

After breakfast, we will continue our trek towards Tilicho Base Camp, which is located at an altitude of 4,200 meters. The trail is relatively steep and challenging, passing through dense forests, rocky terrain, and several streams. Along the way, we will have stunning views of the Annapurna range, including the peaks of Gangapurna, Tilicho, and Khangsar. The trail also includes several suspension bridges, adding a thrilling element to the trek. As we approach Tilicho Base Camp, the scenery becomes even more breathtaking, with snow-capped peaks surrounding us on all sides. We will spend the night in a teahouse at Tilicho Base Camp, enjoying a warm meal and preparing for the next day's hike to Tilicho Lake.

Trek Distance : 8-9 km
Highest Altitude : 4,919m/16,138ft
Trek Duration : 4-5Hrs
Meals : B,L,D

Today is the most awaited day of the trek. We will start our day early in the morning, as we have a long and challenging hike to the world-famous Tilicho Lake. The trail is steep and rocky, with numerous switchbacks. However, the stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Annapurna III, Chulu East, and West, will keep us motivated throughout the hike.

Upon reaching Tilicho Lake, we will be rewarded with the breathtaking views of the turquoise blue lake, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Tilicho Lake is the highest lake in the world, and its serene beauty attracts visitors from all around the world. We will take some time to admire the views and capture some memorable photographs before retracing our steps back to the Tilicho Base Camp. The hike back to Base Camp will be equally challenging, and we will need to be cautious while descending the steep and rocky trail. Overnight stay in Tilicho Base Camp.

Trek Distance : 13-14 Km
Highest Altitude : 4,420m/14,501ft
Trek Duration : 6-7Hrs
Meals : B,L,D

After a long and challenging day yesterday, today's trek will be comparatively easier. We will trek for around 6 hours from Tilicho Base Camp to Yak Kharka. The trail is mostly flat and passes through beautiful forests of pine and rhododendron. We will also come across small streams and waterfalls on our way. We will spend the night at Yak Kharka, enjoying the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and preparing for the challenging trek ahead.

Trek Distance : 8-9 Km
Highest Altitude : 4,800m/15,748ft
Trek Duration : 4-5Hrs
Meals : B,L,D

Today, we will continue our trek towards the Thorang La Pass. We will trek for around 4-5 hours to reach Thorang High Camp. The trail is steep and challenging, and we will need to be cautious while trekking. We will take frequent breaks to rest and stay hydrated. Upon reaching Thorang High Camp, we will take some time to rest and acclimatize to the high altitude. We will enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, including Gangapurna and Mt. Khatungkang, and prepare for the challenging trek tomorrow.

Trek Distance : 16 Km
Highest Altitude : 5,416m/17,769ft
Trek Duration : 7-8 Hrs
Meals : B,L,D

Today is the most challenging day of the trek. We will start our day early in the morning and hike towards the Thorang La Pass, which is the highest point of the trek. The hike towards the pass is steep and rocky, and we will need to be cautious while trekking. As we gain altitude, we will start to feel the effects of altitude, and it is crucial to stay hydrated and take enough breaks to rest. However, the stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri, will keep us motivated throughout the trek. Upon reaching Thorang La Pass, we will be rewarded with the breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains and the surrounding valleys.

Trek Distance : 16 Km
Highest Altitude : 2,700m/8,860ft
Trek Duration : 5-6 Hrs
Meals : B,L,D

After a peaceful night in Muktinath, we start our trek to Jomsom. The trail today is downhill and we will pass through the Kali Gandaki river bed. Along the way, we will visit the holy temple of Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is believed to grant liberation from the cycle of birth and death. After exploring the temple, we descend down to the village of Jharkot and continue to Kagbeni, a medieval town with narrow alleys and white-washed houses.

From Kagbeni, we will follow the Kali Gandaki river and finally reach Jomsom, a windy town famous for its apples and apple products.

Meals : B,L,D

Today, we will take an early morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, a picturesque town located on the banks of Phewa Lake. The flight offers stunning views of the mountains and the landscapes below. After arriving in Pokhara, we will check-in at our hotel and rest for a while. In the evening, we can explore the lakeside area of Pokhara, which offers a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and shops. We can also take a boat ride on Phewa Lake or simply relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Highest Altitude : 1,310m/4,264ft
Trek Duration : 6-7 hr drive
Meals : B,L,D

After breakfast, we will leave Pokhara and drive back to Kathmandu. The drive is scenic and takes us through lush green hills, terraced farmlands, and small villages. Upon reaching Kathmandu, we will check-in at our hotel and freshen up. In the evening, we can explore the streets of Thamel, a popular tourist hub known for its vibrant atmosphere, shops, and restaurants.

Meals : B

This is the day of farewell where you accomplish the journey and leave for your home. Three hours prior to your boarding time, our staff will receive you from your hotel and drop you off at the Tribhuvan International Airport. We really enjoyed hosting you. Many thanks for having us and safe travels returning home.

FAQs Section

The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trekking is the most popular and demanding hiking destination based on the unexplored trekking trails and hikers' feedback. Experienced trekkers won't struggle on this walk, but newcomers may encounter some challenges. This is a high-altitude trek with unpaved roads, so normal people can have difficulty breaking and walking.

The Annapurna circuit trek including the Tillicho Lake trek takes about 14-20 days depending upon the walking pace, weather conditions, and various other factors.

Yes, a special permit, in addition to the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card, is required to visit Tilicho Lake. This permit can be obtained in Kathmandu or along the trekking route.

The highest point of this trek is the Thorong La Pass, standing at an elevation of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet) above sea level.

Nearby attractions near Tillicho Lake include the pristine Ice Lake and Gangapurna Lake, both of which offer captivating views and a serene environment for exploration.

The cost varies depending on factors like the duration of your trek, the type of accommodation chosen, and whether you hire guides and porters. A rough estimate for a budget trek is around $1,200 to $2,500.

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