Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake [Premium]
The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake is an extraordinary journey through some of the most diverse and stunning landscapes in the Himalayas. This trek offers trekkers the opportunity to traverse the breathtaking Annapurna Conservation Area, explore the high-altitude Tilicho Lake (4,920m)—one of the highest lakes in the world—and cross the famous Thorong La Pass (5,416m), which provides panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
This 16-day trek is a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural immersion. The trek begins with lush, subtropical forests and terraced farmlands, gradually transitioning into arid, alpine landscapes and snow-covered peaks. You'll pass through charming Himalayan villages, home to the Gurung, Magar, and Tibetan communities, where trekkers can experience the rich culture and traditions of the local people.
Flora and Fauna of the Annapurna Circuit
The Annapurna Conservation Area is the largest protected area in Nepal and is home to a diverse range of ecosystems, flora, and fauna.
Flora:
- Subtropical Vegetation: The lower regions of the trek feature lush forests of rhododendron, oak, and bamboo, particularly around villages like Besi Sahar. In spring, the rhododendrons bloom in vibrant hues of red, pink, and white, creating a spectacular contrast with the surrounding mountains.
- Alpine Meadows: As you ascend, the landscape changes to alpine meadows, where hardy shrubs and wildflowers dot the terrain. The higher altitudes are home to mosses and lichens, which survive in the harsh, cold environment.
- Arid Terrain: In areas like Manang and Thorong La, you'll encounter a dry, rocky desert-like landscape, typical of the Tibetan Plateau, with sparse vegetation like juniper and small bushes.
Fauna:
- Himalayan Tahr: These large, wild goats are often seen grazing on the steep slopes.
- Musk Deer: Elusive and shy, these endangered animals can be spotted in forested areas.
- Snow Leopard (rare): While extremely rare, the snow leopard roams the higher altitudes of the Annapurna region.
- Langur Monkeys: Playful and curious, these monkeys are often seen swinging through the trees in the lower regions.
- Birdlife: The region is home to a variety of bird species, including the Himalayan Monal, Griffon Vultures, Golden Eagles, and Himalayan Snowcocks.
Highlights of the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake:
- Tilicho Lake: Located at an altitude of 4,920m, this high-altitude glacial lake is one of the most striking natural wonders of the Himalayas. The trek to Tilicho Lake offers jaw-dropping views of Tilicho Peak, Annapurna, and Gangapurna.
- Thorong La Pass: The highest point of the trek at 5,416m, Thorong La Pass offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Crossing the pass is challenging but immensely rewarding.
- Cultural Experience: The trek passes through traditional Gurung and Magar villages, where you’ll experience the unique Himalayan culture, Buddhist monasteries, and traditional Tibetan settlements.
- Natural Hot Springs: After days of trekking, relax in the natural hot springs at Tatopani, a perfect way to rejuvenate your body and soul.
This trek is a fantastic option for adventurers looking to combine high-altitude trekking with cultural exploration and the chance to witness some of the Himalayas' most spectacular landscapes.
Fitness Criteria for the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake:
This trek requires a good level of fitness to cope with long trekking days and high altitudes. To ensure that you're prepared, we ask that you meet one of the following fitness benchmarks:
- 5K run in 35 minutes
- Cycling 10 km in 40 minutes
- Swimming 1 km in 40 minutes
- Stair climbing 50 floors (10 floors up and down 5 times) in 30 minutes
Upon registering for the trek, you'll need to share proof of completing any of the above fitness criteria with your Trek Captain at least 30 days before departure.
If you're not currently following a fitness routine, we’ll provide you with a 4-month training regime designed to help you prepare. The training routine includes a mix of exercises focusing on endurance, strength, and cardio to ensure you’re physically ready for the trek. These exercises will target your upper body, core, lower body, shoulder strength, and improve your breathing pattern. The routine is structured to help you adjust to the challenges of trekking at higher altitudes.
This fitness program will not only help you get ready for the trek but will also instill a sense of fitness that can benefit your overall lifestyle. With consistent effort, you’ll be well-prepared for the journey ahead.
Important Note:
- Trekkers who have previously trekked the same route or similar altitudes automatically qualify for this trek. However, they will still be required to submit a Medical Certificate and Indemnity Bond.
- Trekkers who do not meet the fitness criteria must also submit a Medical Certificate and Indemnity Bond to confirm their participation.
- Failure to submit the Medical Certificate and Indemnity Bond will result in disqualification from the trek.
Trek Insurance:
Trekking in the Himalayas comes with its own set of risks, and while adventure is thrilling, it's essential to be prepared for the unpredictable. To ensure your safety, we provide trek insurance as part of your trek inclusions. This covers medical emergencies, accidents, and evacuation, so you can focus on enjoying your trek without worry.
Risk and Liability:
While we strive to make your trek as smooth and enjoyable as possible, unforeseen circumstances such as landslides, floods, road blockages, flight cancellations, snowfall, or altitude sickness may affect the itinerary. TrekNomads will not be responsible for any such changes in the trek schedule due to these unavoidable situations, but we will do our best to manage the situation and ensure your safety.
Location
Highlights
- Tilicho Lake (4,920m): Trek to one of the world’s highest glacial lakes, surrounded by stunning mountain peaks.
- Thorong La Pass (5,416m): Cross one of the highest trekking passes in the world, with panoramic Himalayan views.
- Muktinath Temple (3,800m): Visit the sacred Muktinath Temple, a pilgrimage site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.
- Natural Hot Springs: Relax in the rejuvenating hot springs at Tatopani after days of trekking.
- Poon Hill (3,210m): Hike to Poon Hill for a stunning sunrise view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
- Diverse Landscapes: Experience everything from lush forests to high-altitude deserts in the Annapurna region.
- Cultural Immersion: Explore traditional Himalayan villages and experience Tibetan culture in Manang.
Itinerary
Short Itinerary:
- Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu and stay at a hotel
- Day 02: Drive to Besi Sahar (760 m) by van and stay at a lodge
- Day 03: Drive to Chame by 4WD jeep (2,670 m) and stay at a lodge
- Day 04: Trek to Pisang (3,190 m) and stay at a lodge
- Day 05: Trek to Manang (3,540 m) and stay at a lodge
- Day 06: Acclimatization day in Manang, continue staying in the lodge
- Day 07: Trek to Letdar (4,250 m) and stay at a lodge
- Day 08: Trek to Thorung Phedi (4,420 m), and stay at a lodge
- Day 09: Trek to Muktinath (3,800 m) via Thorong-La pass (5,416 m) and stay at a lodge
- Day 10: Drive to Tatopani (1,200 m) & visit natural hot spring water. Stay at a lodge
- Day 11: Trek to Ghorepani (2,850 m) and stay at a lodge
- Day 12: Early Morning Hike to Poon Hill and Trek down to Ulleri and drive to Pokhara by Jeep. Stay at a hotel
- Day 13: Exploration day in Pokhara visit Santi stupa and international mountain museum, paragliding etc. Stay at hotel
- Day 14: Fly back to Kathmandu from Pokhara. Stay at hotel.
- Day 15: Final Departure transfer to TIA airport 3 hours before your flight schedule
Detailed Itinerary:
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu
Annapurna circuit trek length is approximately 100+ miles and takes around 16 days to complete the trek. Arrive at the Tribhuwan International Airport & check in to the hotel. The rest of the afternoon is free until the evening when you'll enjoy a welcome drink with your guide and introduce each other. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 02: Drive to Besi Sahar / Chamje
Attitude: 760 m (2,493 ft) / 2,140 m (7,021 ft)
Travel Distance / Duration: 184 kms / 7 hours
We drive along the Kathmandu-Pokhara Highway to Dumre and then following the rough route by the Marsyangdi River, we pass through the low-lying villages and rice fields. If the annapurna circuit trek map is followed correctly, it will take 6 hours. After 6 hours long drive, we finally reach Besi Sahar, which is the capital of Lamjung District. Based on the time we reach Besi Sahar, we can further travel to Chame and stay overnight.
Day 03: Drive to Chame
Attitude: 2,670 m (8,759 ft)
Travel Distance / Duration: 70 kms / 6-7 hours
From Bagarchap the trail climbs through forest to Dhanakyu (2290m), crosses several landslides and travels uphill through the forest to Lattemarang (2360m). The trail climbs and then descends to Thanchok and to Kotho (2590m), a meadow surrounded by huge pine and spruce trees. Walking about half an hour you will reach to Chame, the administrative headquarters of the Manang district. From here you have an excellent view of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV on the annapurna trek. Overnight stay at Chame.
Day 04: Trek to Pisang (3190m)
Attitude: 3,190 m (10,465 ft)
Trek Distance / Duration: 13 kms / 6-7 hours
From Chame, you will reach Bhratang after walking through the pine forest and huge apple orchard which is surrounded by a stone wall. The Annapurna trek offers admirable views of Annapurna II, Pisang Peak, Mt.Himalchuli and Ngadi Chuli and reaches to Pisang, part of Manang Valley. Overnight stay at Pisang.
Day 05: Trek to Manang
Attitude: 3,540 m (11,614 ft)
Trek Distance / Duration: 17 kms / 8 hours
The trail makes a long climb with excellent views of the Manang valley and Tilicho peak (7,134 m), before reaching to the Manang airstrip at Humde (3,280 m). Crossing to the north bank of Marshyangdi on a bridge the trail reaches Mungji (3,360 m) and then climbs to Bryaga (3,550 m), a Tibetan-style village. Finally, after leaving Bryaga, you will reach Manang. Overnight stay at Manang.
Day 06: Acclimatization day in Manang
Attitude: 3,540 m (11,614 ft)
Trek Distance / Duration: 5-6 kms / 3-4 hours
After having breakfast you will climb the ridge to the north of the village for excellent views of Annapurna IV, Annapurna II and Tarke Kang (7,193 m). If you descend from the village, you will see the glacial lake at the base of the huge icefall that drops from Gangapurna (7,454 m). Back to Manang. Overnight stay at Manang
Day 07: Trek to Letdar (4250m)
Attitude: 4,250 m (13,943 ft)
Trek Distance / Duration: 12 kms / 5-6 hours
From Manang, the trail crosses a stream, climbs to Tengi, and then continues to climb out of the Marshyangdi valley before reaching the small village of Gunsang (3,930 m). The trail passes through a sparse forest of juniper, rose, and barberry and crosses a large stream to reach Yak Kharka (4,090 m). Walking about an hour further you will reach Letdar. Overnight stay at Letdar. If you wish to get access to a comprehensive Annapurna circuit trek guide, reach out to us today!
Day 08: Trek to Thorung Phedi
Attitude: 4,420 m (14,501 ft)
Trek Distance / Duration: 7 kms / 6-7 hours
From Letdar the trail continues to climb along the east bank of the Jar sang Khola then descends and crosses the stream on a bridge. Then making a short descent you will reach Thorung Phedi. Overnight stay at Throung Phedi.
Day 09: Trek to Muktinath
Attitude: 3,800 m (12,467 ft)
Trek Distance / Duration: 16 kms / 10-12 hours
From Thorung Phedi, the trail becomes steep; following rocky ridges you will reach Thorung La (5,416 m), which is the highest point of this trek. From here the views are outstanding. The trail descends steeply and during the decent there you can see sights of Mt.Dhaulagiri. You will reach Chabarbu (4,290 m). The trail crosses a meadow and leads to Muktinath where you can visit on the temple of Lord Vishnu, sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. Overnight at Muktinath.
Day 10: Drive to Tatopani (1200 m)
Attitude: 1,200 m (3,937 ft)
Travel Distance / Duration: 85 kms / 5-6 hours
From Muktinath, the trail descends to Jharkot and ends at Khingar. Beyond Khingar you will meet the junction of two routes. The first one goes to Kagbeni (the entrance of upper Mustang) and another is to Jomsom. Then the trail proceeds to Eklebatti following the Kali Gandaki River. You will finally reach Jomsom where you can see the Annapurna Conservation Project check post, hospital, airport, and army camp. Then you drive down to Tatopani via Ghasa and Lele. The trail has ups and downs but most of the time we drive through a bumpy road through the riverside during the dry season. By the time you reach Tatopani, the Kaligandaki River has become a wide and wild stream. Tatopani has hot springs where you enjoy a bath after the exhausting days of the trip . Overnight stay at lodge. Annapurna circuit trek best time is considered to be from April to June.
Day 11: Trek to Ghorepani (2850 m)
Attitude: 2,850 m (9,350 ft)
Trek Distance / Duration: 17 kms / 7-8 hours
The trail follows through beautiful enchanting forests of rhododendrons, oaks, and pines with constant views of the Annapurna & Dhaulagiri mountain range. From Tatopani, you climb up to Ghorepani through wonderful misty forests. Literally, ‘Ghora’ means horse and ‘Pani’ means water, which translates to ‘a place where horses are stopped for rest’. You take an overnight stay at Ghorepani and enjoy the magnificent view of the mountains - Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Nilgiri, Machhapurchhare and Tukuche peak.
Day 12: Early Morning Hike to Poon Hill Trek to Nayapul via Birethanti and drive back to Pokhara
Attitude: 1,040 m (3,412 ft)
Trek Distance / Duration: 20 kms / 7-8 hours
After an overnight stay in Ghandruk village, we trek down all the way to Nayapul via Birethanti. Nayapul is the ending point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, and we drive back to Pokhara. Stay overnight at a hotel.
Day 13: Pokhara Sightseeing
Exploration day in Pokhara visit Santi stupa and international mountain museum, paragliding etc
Day 14: Fly back to Kathmandu
After breakfast, we fly back to Kathmandu from Pokhara. Drop to the hotel in Kathmandu. Leisure day at your convenience to explore the city.
Day 15: Departure
Final Departure transfer to TIA airport
Fitness Criteria:
This trek requires a good level of fitness.
To register for this trek you are required to complete any of the below-mentioned fitness criteria.
5K run in 35 minutes or Cycling 10kms in 40 mins or Swimming 1 km in 40 mins or Stair climbing 50 floors (10 floors up and down 5 times) in 30 mins.
Once you do register, please share the proof of fitness criteria with your Trek Captain anytime 30 days before departure.
If you're not already following a fitness regime, you would need to follow the regime that will be shared with you. The training routine is spread over four months and you would be expected to work out at least 4 times a week. The regime is designed to help you climb smarter even in higher altitudes. The regime consists of a good combination of exercises that works on all parts of your body including - Upper Body, Core, Endurance, Lower Body, Shoulder strength and improving your breathing pattern. When followed religiously, you can be assured that you will be ready for the trek. Not only does this regime help you with the trek, but it will also help you inculcate a sense of fitness in your day-to-day life.
NOTE:
Trekkers who have already trekked in the same route or have trekked at a similar altitude (highest altitude of this trek) or even higher, automatically get qualified. However, they would have to get both the Medical Certificate and Indemnity Bond singed as a mandate.
Trekkers who do not qualify the fitness criteria or fail to share the fitness criteria proof have to get both the Medical Certificate and Indemnity Bond singed with the same mentioned in the documents respectively.
Trekkers will not be allowed to join the group if the duly filled, signed and sealed copies of the Medical Certificate and Indemnity Bond are not shared.
Trek Insurance:
Trekking in the Himalayas comes with its own set of risks. While adventure is fun and can be extremely thrilling, nature can be unpredictable, and to help secure you during your trek, it is of utmost importance that you are covered with insurance.
We've gone a step ahead and made sure that you don't have to worry about scouting for the best insurance option out there. When you trek with us, your insurance comes as a part of your inclusions.
Risk and Liability:
We will endeavor to make your program smooth and as pleasant as possible. However, the entire course of trekking depends on the ranges of the mighty mountains, physical health, and environmental conditions. Therefore, TrekNomads shall not be responsible for any changes in the itineraries due to unavoidable circumstances and natural disasters such as landslide, road blockage, flood, snowing, cancellation of flight and delay, any type of sickness including altitude sickness.
Inclusions
- Arrival and departure transfer to the international and domestic airport in a private vehicle
- Pokhara to Kathmandu domestic airfares
- Land transportation Kathmandu - Beshisahar in a Jeep or TT or Bus
- Beshisaher to Pisang travel via local 4WD jeep
- 02 Nights accommodation at Kathmandu at 3-star hotel with breakfast on twin sharing basis
- 01 Night accommodation at Pokhara at 3-star hotel with breakfast on twin sharing basis
- 12 Nights accommodation in TeaHouses/Lodges during the trek on twin sharing basis
- Muktinath to Tatopani travel via local 4WD jeep
- Pick up from Ulleri / Nayapul and drive to Pokhara
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit fee
- TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Fee
- Three meals in a day along with three times tea or coffee during the trekking period (open menu to choose any one item per meal from the menu)
- Three times tea or coffee in a day during the trekking period
- 2 litres of mineral water or hot water
- 12 days trekking with an experienced, English-speaking and government-licensed trek guide and assistant trek guide
- 1 porter for every 2 persons’ luggage (max 10-12 kgs per head allowed)
- Insurance, meals, transportation daily salary of guide & porter
- 3 litres oxygen cylinder with mask regulator for emergency
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
- All government, local taxes and service charges
- TrekNomads Fee, Trek Captain support and expertise
- 15% discount coupon on Gokyo Trek Apparel and Gear
- 10% discount coupon on Fast&Up products
- 20% discount coupon on BMore products
- Personalized Dri-Fit T-shirt
- Expedition grade duffle bag
- TrekNomads goodies
Exclusions
- International airfare
- Nepal Visa fee
- Lunch and dinner at Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Any personal expense
- Personal Adventure Insurance
- Excess baggage charge(s), if it exceeds 15kg
- Insurance Fee
- Any type of soft drinks
- Boiled hot water, shower, etc, during the trek
- Extra meals apart from inclusions
- Tips to porters and guides (calculated per person at 10$ per day per person)
- Any other activity such as Bungee Jumping/River Rafting
- Helicopter fares
- Extra days at the hotel in Kathmandu apart from the schedule
- Any other expenses incurred apart from inclusions
- All personal, medical, evacuation and emergency expenses like extra day stay out of itinerary, helicopter services and vehicle charges due to delays, landslides, evacuation
- Expenses incurred for guide or porter during extra days stay, transport, flight, helicopter service, etc (divided amongst the group which utilises the services of guides/porters on extra days)
Treknical Details
Altitude Map:
- Kathmandu: 1,400 m (4,593 ft)
- Besi Sahar: 760 m (2,493 ft)
- Chame: 2,670 m (8,759 ft)
- Pisang: 3,190 m (10,465 ft)
- Manang: 3,540 m (11,614 ft)
- Letdar: 4,250 m (13,943 ft)
- Thorung Phedi: 4,420 m (14,501 ft)
- Muktinath: 3,800 m (12,467 ft)
- Kalopani: 2,530 m (8,300 ft)
- Tatopani: 1,200 m (3,937 ft)
- Ghorepani: 2,850 m (9,350 ft)
- Thorung La: 5,416 m (17,769 ft)
Other Details:
- Trek Gradient: Difficult
- Trek Distance: 100+ Km
- Assembling Point: Kathmandu
- Trek Duration: 60 + hours
- Average Temperature: 20°C to -10°C
- Best Months to trek: April, May, October, November
Trek Gradient
Tough
FAQ's
FAQs for Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake – TrekNomads
1. What is the total duration of the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake?
The trek spans 16 days, including arrival and departure days, with 12 days of trekking and exploration through the Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake.
2. What is the highest altitude reached on this trek?
The highest point of the trek is at Thorong La Pass (5,416m). You will also visit Tilicho Lake at 4,920m, one of the highest lakes in the world.
3. How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake?
This is a moderately difficult trek, suitable for trekkers with good fitness levels. It involves long trekking days, steep ascents, and high-altitude terrain. Proper acclimatization is included to help trekkers adjust to the altitude.
4. What is the best time of year to do this trek?
The best times to trek the Annapurna Circuit are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons, when the weather is clear, and the mountain views are most spectacular.
5. Do I need previous trekking experience to join this trek?
While previous trekking experience is not mandatory, it is recommended to have good physical fitness and endurance for this trek due to the high altitude and length of the trek. Completing the fitness criteria outlined by TrekNomads is required.
6. What fitness level is required for the trek?
Trekkers need to meet certain fitness criteria, such as running 5K in 35 minutes or cycling 10 km in 40 minutes, or swimming 1 km in 40 minutes. A fitness regime will be provided for those who are not already following one.
7. How long do we trek each day?
Daily trekking durations vary from 4 to 8 hours, depending on the day's itinerary and altitude. The longest trekking day is the crossing of Thorong La Pass, which takes around 8 to 10 hours.
8. What are the accommodation options during the trek?
Accommodation is provided in lodges or tea houses throughout the trek. The lodges are simple but comfortable, with basic amenities. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you'll stay in hotels.
9. Is altitude sickness a concern on this trek?
Yes, altitude sickness is a possibility due to the high altitudes reached on this trek. TrekNomads includes acclimatization days, and your Trek Lead will monitor your health closely. You should also follow a proper fitness and acclimatization plan before and during the trek.
10. What is the temperature like during the trek?
Temperatures vary depending on the season and altitude. During the day, lower altitudes can range between 10°C to 20°C, while higher altitudes can drop to -5°C to -10°C at night, especially near Thorong La Pass and Tilicho Lake.
11. Will there be network connectivity during the trek?
There may be limited mobile network connectivity in some villages, but higher-altitude locations like Tilicho Base Camp and Thorong Phedi may not have a network. Some tea houses may offer Wi-Fi for a small fee.
12. Do I need to bring any special trekking equipment?
Yes, you will need appropriate trekking gear, including good-quality hiking boots, thermal layers, a down jacket, a sleeping bag (if necessary), and trekking poles. A detailed packing list will be provided by TrekNomads upon registration.
13. What type of food is available during the trek?
Meals during the trek are provided at the lodges and include nutritious options like dal bhat (rice and lentils), soups, noodles, pasta, and vegetables. You will have the flexibility to choose one item per meal from the open menu. During the trek, three meals a day will be served along with three servings of tea or coffee.
14. Is drinking water provided during the trek?
You Yes, 2 litres of mineral water or hot water will be provided daily during the trek as part of the package. To minimize plastic waste, we also encourage trekkers to bring a water purification system (such as tablets or a filter) to purify tap or stream water. Bottled water is available for purchase at some lodges as well. water.
15. Will there be porters to carry my luggage?
Yes, porters will be available to carry the majority of your gear (up to 10 kg per person). You will only need to carry a daypack with essentials like water, snacks, and a jacket.
16. Are there any cultural considerations we should be aware of during the trek?
Yes, the trek passes through traditional villages where respecting local customs is important. Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people, and dress modestly in villages and religious sites.
17. What happens if I am unable to complete the trek?
If for any reason you are unable to complete the trek due to illness or injury, TrekNomads will assist in arranging your safe descent and return to a lower altitude. Trek insurance covers medical evacuation if necessary.
18. Is trekking insurance required?
Yes, trekking insurance is mandatory for this trek. TrekNomads will assist you in buying trekking insurance covering accidents, medical emergencies, and helicopter evacuation if needed.
19. How do I register for this trek?
You can register for the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake by visiting the TrekNomads website and completing the online registration form. Make sure to complete the fitness criteria and provide the necessary documentation.
20. Can I join this trek solo or with a group?
Yes, both solo trekkers and groups are welcome on this trek. Solo trekkers can join an existing group, making it a great opportunity to meet like-minded adventurers. You can also customise a private departure at your convenience.
Type of Trek
Himalayan Treks, International Treks