ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TILICHO LAKE POON HILL TREK 13 DAYS FROM POKHARA
ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TILICHO LAKE POON HILL TREK 13 DAYS FROM POKHARA
The Annapurna Circuit Trek via Tilicho Lake, Ghorepani, and Poon Hill from Pokhara is an extraordinary 13-day adventure that immerses you in the heart of the Annapurna region's stunning landscapes, rich culture, and majestic mountains. The trek begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Besisahar, followed by a jeep ride to Dharapani, where the trekking journey officially starts.
From Dharapani, you'll embark on a trek through lush forests, vibrant villages, and scenic river valleys. The first major stop is Chame, a charming village set against the backdrop of the towering peaks. Continuing your journey, you'll head to Pisang and then to Manang, passing through Ngawal Village. This village offers not only cultural experiences but also breathtaking views. Here, you'll take a rest day for acclimatization, ensuring your body adjusts to the altitude while exploring the surroundings and preparing for higher altitudes ahead.
The next section of the trek takes you towards Tilicho Base Camp (4,150 meters), followed by an ascent to Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world at 4,920 meters. Nestled amidst towering peaks, the serene beauty of the lake is a true highlight of this trek. After soaking in the peaceful atmosphere, you'll descend to Shree Kharka and then trek to Yak Kharka, a remote high-altitude settlement offering stunning mountain views.
Continuing on, you’ll trek to Thorong Phedi, the base camp for crossing the renowned Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters). The pass is one of the highest trekking passes in the world and presents a true test of endurance. Upon crossing, you descend to Muktinath, a sacred destination for both Hindus and Buddhists, where you can explore sacred temples and enjoy spiritual serenity.
The adventure continues with a scenic drive to Tatopani, known for its natural hot springs—a perfect place to relax and rejuvenate after the challenging days. From Tatopani, the trek continues to Ghorepani, a stunning viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The crowning experience is the early morning hike to Poon Hill to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas.
The trek concludes with a descent to Nayapul, followed by a scenic drive back to Pokhara, marking the end of an unforgettable 13-day journey that blends the thrill of high-altitude trekking, cultural exploration, and the beauty of the Annapurna region. This trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers something for every adventurer—from spiritual encounters to magnificent mountain vistas.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Drive from Pokhara to Dharapani (1,960m) – Duration: 8-9 hours.
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Dharapani, a small village marking the start of your trek. You’ll pass through picturesque landscapes, including terraced fields and small villages. The journey provides glimpses of the surrounding mountains as you make your way toward the Annapurna region, where the trek truly begins.
Day 2 : Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2,710m) – Duration: 5-6 hours.
The trekking portion starts today. From Dharapani, the trail ascends through lush forests, crossing suspension bridges and walking along the Marsyangdi River. You’ll pass through several traditional villages, including Bagarchhap and Danakyu, before reaching Chame, the district headquarters of the Manang region. Chame offers stunning views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal.
Day 3 : Trek to Pisang (3,115m) – Duration: 4-5 hours.
The trek continues with a gradual ascent towards Pisang. The trail winds through forests of pine and fir trees, offering majestic views of the Manaslu and Annapurna ranges. As you near Pisang, the landscape opens up, and you’ll see the characteristic flat-roofed houses typical of the Tibetan-influenced villages. Pisang provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and is a peaceful stop for the night.
Day 4 : Trek to Manang (3,540m) via Ngawal village – Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today, you’ll trek to Manang, a vibrant Sherpa village. The trail takes you through Ngawal, a village known for its ancient monasteries and panoramic views of the Annapurna massif. After a short break in Ngawal, you’ll continue to Manang, passing through yak pastures and alpine forests. The village of Manang is a popular stop for acclimatization and offers a chance to explore the local culture and interact with the friendly inhabitants.
Day 5 : Rest Day at Manang for Acclimatization.
This is an important rest day to allow your body to acclimatize to the increasing altitude. You can explore the village, visit Manang Monastery, and take a side trip to Ice Lake for stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness as you prepare to go higher in the coming days.
Day 6 : Trek from Manang to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m) – Duration: 5-6 hours.
After the rest day, it’s time to head towards Tilicho Base Camp, the gateway to the famous Tilicho Lake. The trail takes you through rugged terrain and offers spectacular views of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges. The hike is relatively strenuous as you gain significant elevation, but the views of Mount Tilicho and the surrounding peaks make the effort worthwhile.
Day 7 : Hike to Tilicho Lake (4,920m) & Return to Base Camp, then Trek to Shree Kharka – Duration: 7-8 hours.
Today, you’ll hike to Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world, at an elevation of 4,920 meters. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, creating a surreal and breathtaking landscape. After spending some time at the lake, you’ll return to Tilicho Base Camp and then descend to Shree Kharka for the night. The descent to Shree Kharka provides you with incredible views of the valley and mountains.
Day 8 : Trek from Shree Kharka to Yak Kharka (4,200m) – Duration: 5-6 hours.
From Shree Kharka, the trail gradually ascends to Yak Kharka, a small settlement in the alpine zone. As you hike, you’ll pass by yak herders and experience more remote and tranquil surroundings. The area offers fantastic views of the Annapurna and Gangapurna peaks, and you’ll enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this high-altitude location.
Day 9 : Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,500m) – Duration: 3-4 hours.
Today’s trek takes you from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi, the base camp for crossing the Thorong La Pass. The trail is short but steep, as you approach the last stop before the pass. The altitude can begin to take its toll, so it’s important to rest and hydrate well in preparation for tomorrow’s challenging ascent to Thorong La Pass.
Day 10 : Trek from Thorong Phedi via Thorong La Pass (5,416m) to Muktinath (3,802m) – Duration: 7-9 hours.
The main challenge of the trek is today as you cross Thorong La Pass. At 5,416 meters, it’s one of the highest trekking passes in the world. The climb is strenuous, but the views from the pass, including the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, are absolutely rewarding. After crossing the pass, you’ll descend to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists, known for its temples and mystical atmosphere.
Day 11 : Drive from Muktinath to Tatopani (1,200m) – Duration: 6-7 hours.
After exploring the sacred temples of Muktinath, you’ll take a scenic drive down to Tatopani. The drive is a long one, but you’ll pass through lush forests and dramatic landscapes. Once in Tatopani, you can relax and rejuvenate in the natural hot springs, which are known for their therapeutic properties.
Day 12 : Trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani (2,860m) – Duration: 7-8 hours.
Leaving Tatopani, you’ll embark on a challenging trek to Ghorepani, a village known for its stunning panoramic views. The route takes you through forests and villages, and the climb is steady but rewarding. Once at Ghorepani, you’ll have views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges, preparing you for the grand finale of the trek.
Day 13 : Hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) & Trek to Nayapul, then Drive to Pokhara (850m) – Duration: 7-9 hours.
The final day of the trek includes a very early morning hike to Poon Hill to witness a stunning sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. After soaking in the breathtaking views, you’ll descend to Nayapul, where you’ll catch a local bus back to Pokhara, concluding your epic 13-day adventure.
SERVICES
Cost Included in Your Package
- Drive from Pokhara to Besisahar by local bus and Besisahar to Dharapani by local shared Jeep.
- Drive from Muktinath to Tatopan by local bus & Nayapul to Pokhara by private car at the end of the trek.
- Tea House/Lodge accommodation during the trek.
- Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) are provided throughout the trek.
- Experienced and qualified trek leader (guide) with a government license, and an assistant trekking guide for groups of 8 or more trekkers.
- Porter service: One porter for every two trekkers to help carry your luggage.
- Porters' coverage: Their salary, food, accommodation, insurance, and safety equipment.
- The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) fee is included.
- The Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card fee is covered.
- Use of trekking gear: Sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, and walking poles (if you don't have your own), to be returned after the trek.
- Assistance with emergency rescue operations (funded by your travel insurance) in case of severe health conditions.
- Sherpa Expedition and Trekking appreciation certificate after completing the trek.
- Oxygen meter to check your pulse, oxygen saturation, and heart rate twice daily, ensuring your health and safety during the trek.
Cost Not Included in Your Package
- International Flight to and from Nepal.
- Nepal entry visa fee: Visas can be obtained easily on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. The fees are as follows:
- $30 USD for a 15-day visa
- $50 USD for a 30-day visa
- $125 USD for a 90-day visa
- Accommodation and meals in Pokhara (other than those provided during the trek).
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu or Pokhara due to early arrival, late departure, or early return from trekking for any reason outside the scheduled itinerary.
- Personal expenses such as shopping, snacks, bar bills, tea, coffee, hot water, bottled or boiled water, shower fees, Wi-Fi, laundry, telephone calls, battery recharges, extra porters, etc.
- Personal clothing and gear not provided in the package.
- Travel insurance: It is strongly recommended to have insurance that covers trekking in high-altitude areas.
- Tips for your guide and porters, which is customary in Nepali culture.
- Additional costs or delays caused by circumstances beyond our control, such as landscape changes, bad weather, itinerary modifications for safety, illness, changes in government policy, political instability, strikes, or other unforeseen events.
- NOTE: If you return earlier from the trek due to sickness or any other reason, expenses for flights, hotels, meals, and other services are nonrefundable. You will be responsible for any additional costs incurred in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
- Sleeping Bag (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Duffel Bag (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Fleece jacket or pullover
- Waterproof windbreaker or windcheater
- Thermal underclothes
- Rain poncho
- Down jacket (Sherpa Teams will provide but need to return after completing the trip)
- Fleece or wool trousers
- Sun hat or scarf
- Trekking pants (two pairs)
- Mittens or woolen gloves
- Hiking socks (several pairs)
- Moisture-wicking shirts, including t-shirts
- Trekking shoes or boots with spare laces
- Flip-flops or sandals for relaxing in the evenings
- Underwear (several pairs)
- Swimsuit or swimming costume
- Sunglasses
- Headlamp or flashlight/torch
- Sleeping bag (Sherpa Teams can provide this for you)
- Trekking poles (if desired)
- Hiking backpack with a capacity of at least 40 liters
- Small lock for your backpack
- Reusable water bottles (at least two liters)
- Water purification tablets or filtration device
- Wash towel
- Basic first aid kit
Toiletries (tissues, toilet paper, moisturizer, lip balm, sunscreen, sanitary pads, hand sanitizer, nail clippers, a small mirror, toothbrush, toothpaste, glasses, contacts, etc.)
GOOD TO KNOW
🚶♂️ Trekking Difficulty
The Annapurna Circuit Trek via Tilicho Lake is a challenging trek that requires a good level of fitness. The trek involves high-altitude climbs and steep ascents, especially when crossing Thorong La Pass. While the trek is accessible to those in decent physical condition, previous hiking or trekking experience is recommended.
🕒 Trek Duration
This incredible adventure spans 13 days. It includes several acclimatization days, especially in Manang, to ensure safe and gradual altitude gains. The trek's total duration varies depending on your pace, but most trekkers take about 12-14 days to complete the full circuit.
🌡️ Weather and Best Time to Trek
The ideal time for the Annapurna Circuit via Tilicho Lake trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather is generally stable with mild temperatures and clear skies. However, weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains, so it’s essential to be prepared for both sunny days and possible cold temperatures.
🧳 What to Pack
Packing for the Annapurna Circuit requires careful planning, especially when trekking at higher altitudes. Essentials include a good pair of hiking boots, warm clothing, sleeping bag, sun protection, and a hydration system. You’ll also need to carry extra layers for cold nights, especially when trekking above 4,000 meters. A sturdy backpack with a good rain cover is also recommended.
🌍 Cultural Insights
Along the trek, you’ll pass through traditional villages and Tibetan-influenced communities. The Annapurna Circuit offers a rich cultural experience, with opportunities to interact with the local Gurung, Manangi, and Tibetan people. The sacred site of Muktinath is of profound religious significance for both Hindus and Buddhists.
💧 Water and Hydration
Staying hydrated during the trek is crucial. While there are places to refill water along the route, always bring a water purification system (tablets, filter, etc.) to ensure your water is safe. It’s important to drink plenty of fluids to help with acclimatization and to maintain energy levels for the strenuous days ahead.
🏥 Health and Safety
High-altitude trekking can come with risks such as altitude sickness. Acclimatization days, such as the one spent in Manang, are crucial to prevent it. If you experience symptoms like headaches, nausea, or dizziness, it's important to descend and rest. Make sure to carry any personal medications and consult your doctor before starting the trek.
💸 Trekking Permits and Costs
Trekking in the Annapurna region requires two main permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. The cost of these permits is usually around USD 30-40. Additionally, the cost of food, accommodation, and transportation varies along the trek, but it’s generally affordable.
🛏️ Accommodation
Throughout the trek, you’ll stay in teahouses or lodges that offer basic but comfortable accommodations. Rooms are typically shared, with beds and blankets provided. In remote areas like Tilicho Base Camp, accommodations may be more basic, and facilities may be limited, so be prepared for a more rustic experience.
🚗 Transportation
The trek starts with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Dharapani, which typically takes around 8-9 hours. From Muktinath, you'll drive back to Pokhara via a local bus, which takes around 7-9 hours. The journey offers picturesque views of the mountains and rural Nepalese landscapes, making it a part of the adventure!
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FAQS
What is the best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit via Tilicho Lake?
The best time for this trek is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer clear skies, moderate temperatures, and are ideal for trekking in high-altitude regions.
How difficult is the Annapurna Circuit via Tilicho Lake trek?
This trek is moderately difficult and requires a good level of fitness. It involves significant elevation gains and long days of hiking. Acclimatization days are included to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
How high is Thorong La Pass and why is it significant?
Thorong La Pass stands at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet). It is one of the highest trekking passes in the world, and crossing it is the trek's biggest challenge. It offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
How long does the trek take to complete?
The trek typically takes 12-13 days, depending on the pace and acclimatization needs. Some trekkers may take additional rest days to ensure safety and comfort at high altitudes.
Do I need any special permits for this trek?
Yes, you will need two main permits:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.
These permits can be obtained in Pokhara or Kathmandu.
What type of accommodation can I expect during the trek?
Accommodation along the Annapurna Circuit is provided in teahouses or lodges. These are basic but comfortable, offering meals and sleeping arrangements. In more remote areas, accommodations may be more basic.
Is it safe to trek at high altitudes in the Annapurna region?
While the trek is generally safe, altitude sickness can be a risk. Acclimatization days in places like Manang and Tilicho Base Camp are critical to adjust to the altitude. If symptoms of altitude sickness occur, it's important to descend immediately.
What are the challenges of the Annapurna Circuit via Tilicho Lake trek?
Challenges include:
- Altitude: Crossing high-altitude passes like Thorong La and reaching Tilicho Lake.
- Weather: Weather can change rapidly in the mountains.
- Long Days: Some trekking days can be long, requiring stamina and determination.
What do I need to pack for the trek?
Essential items include:
- Warm layers for cold nights, especially above 4,000 meters.
- Trekking boots with good ankle support.
- Water purification tablets or filters.
- Sun protection: sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
- A sleeping bag (depending on your teahouse accommodation).
Can I do the Annapurna Circuit via Tilicho Lake trek independently, or do I need a guide?
You can trek independently if you have experience and are comfortable navigating the route. However, having a guide or porter is recommended for safety, assistance with navigation, and carrying your gear. Local guides can also provide valuable cultural insights.
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