ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TILICHO LAKE POON HILL TREK 14 DAYS FROM POKHARA
ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TILICHO LAKE POON HILL TREK 14 DAYS FROM POKHARA
The Annapurna Circuit Trek via Tilicho Lake, Ghorepani, and Poon Hill is an epic 14-day adventure that unfolds from the beautiful city of Pokhara. This extraordinary journey blends awe-inspiring mountain vistas, rich cultural heritage, and an ever-changing landscape, making it a must-do for any avid trekker.
Your adventure kicks off with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Besisahar by local bus, offering a glimpse into rural Nepal as you pass through charming villages and terraced fields. From Besisahar, a shared jeep takes you to Jagat, the official starting point of your trek. The trail begins with a steep ascent, leading you along the Marsyangdi River and through lush forests and valleys, before reaching Dharapani, a small yet picturesque village. Your journey continues with a hike to Chame, the administrative center of the Manang District, where you will be greeted by striking views of towering Himalayan peaks.
The trek progresses through the vibrant villages of Pisang and Ngawal, where you will have the opportunity to experience the unique culture of the Tibetan-influenced communities. Upon reaching Manang, you’ll take a crucial rest day to acclimatize to the altitude and prepare for higher elevations. This day allows you to explore the village, enjoy stunning views of Annapurna and Gangapurna, and hike to nearby spots like Ice Lake for panoramic views of the mountains.
The journey then continues towards Tilicho Base Camp, and eventually, to Tilicho Lake—one of the world’s highest lakes. The beauty of the lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, will take your breath away. After a rewarding visit to Tilicho Lake, you’ll descend back to Shree Kharka, and then make your way to Yak Kharka, a remote settlement that marks the beginning of the final ascent towards Thorong Phedi, the base camp for crossing the Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters, the highest point of the trek.
The next day, you will challenge yourself by crossing Thorong La Pass, which offers unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains. Afterward, you descend into Muktinath, a revered sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists, where you can visit ancient temples and experience the spiritual atmosphere of the area.
From Muktinath, a local bus will take you to Tatopani, a place known for its rejuvenating natural hot springs—perfect for a well-deserved rest after the high-altitude trekking. After relaxing, your journey continues with a trek towards Jhosspring and onwards to Ghorepani, a vantage point known for its magnificent views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
The final highlight of the trek is an early morning hike to Poon Hill for a breathtaking sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Following the sunrise, you’ll descend to Nayapul and take a scenic drive back to Pokhara, completing this incredible 14-day trek that will leave you with unforgettable memories of the Himalayas, cultural encounters, and stunning landscapes.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Drive from Pokhara to Jagat (1,300m) – Duration: 7-8 hours.
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Jagat, where you'll be introduced to the beauty of rural Nepal. As you travel, you'll witness the changing landscapes, moving from the lush green valleys to the more rugged terrain. This day serves as a prelude to the trekking adventure ahead.
Day 2 : Trek from Jagat to Dharapani (1,960m) – Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today, the trek officially begins as you walk along the Marsyangdi River, passing through small villages and terraced fields. After crossing several suspension bridges and hiking through forests, you'll reach Dharapani, a quaint village nestled between the mountains. The day is a gradual ascent, providing you with stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Day 3 : Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2,710m/8,890ft) – Duration: 5-6 hours.
From Dharapani, you’ll continue your journey towards Chame, the administrative center of the Manang district. The route takes you through dense pine forests and gives you your first panoramic view of the Annapurna range. Chame is a lovely village with traditional wooden houses and offers great views of the peaks ahead.
Day 4 : Trek to Pisang (3,115m/10,200ft) – Duration: 4-5 hours.
Today, you’ll trek from Chame to Pisang, where the landscape begins to change dramatically. As you move through the pine forests, you’ll pass through the village of Bhratang and cross the Marsyangdi River, which adds to the scenic beauty of the trail. Pisang offers spectacular views of the towering peaks and is a perfect spot to rest before heading to higher altitudes.
Day 5 : Trek to Manang (3,540m/11,300ft) via Ngawal Village – Duration: 6-7 hours.
This day takes you through the picturesque village of Ngawal before reaching Manang, the main village in the Manang Valley. As you walk, you’ll witness stunning views of Annapurna II, III, and Gangapurna. Manang is a popular stop for trekkers as it provides a chance to acclimatize before heading higher up into the mountains.
Day 6 : Rest Day at Manang for Acclimatization.
A rest day at Manang is essential for acclimatization. This allows your body to adjust to the increasing altitude. You can explore Manang village, visit the local monastery, or take a short hike to Ice Lake for breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Gangapurna peaks. This day will help prevent altitude sickness and prepare you for the challenging days ahead.
Day 7 : Trek from Manang to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m) – Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today, the trek takes you from Manang to Tilicho Base Camp. The path gradually ascends through alpine meadows and rough terrain. As you climb, you’ll be surrounded by dramatic views of snow-capped peaks. The Base Camp at Tilicho provides a stunning, close-up view of the surrounding mountains, making it a highlight of the trek.
Day 8 : Hike to Tilicho Lake (4,920m) & Return to Base Camp, Trek to Shree Kharka – Duration: 7-8 hours.
Today, you’ll make your way up to Tilicho Lake, the highest lake in the world at an altitude of 4,920 meters. The lake, surrounded by towering peaks, offers one of the most scenic spots in the Himalayas. After spending some time at the lake, you’ll retrace your steps back to Tilicho Base Camp and then continue down the valley to Shree Kharka, a small village where you’ll stay the night.
Day 9 : Trek from Shree Kharka to Yak Kharka (4,200m) – Duration: 5-6 hours.
From Shree Kharka, you will trek to Yak Kharka, a small settlement located at a high altitude. The journey is a gradual ascent, passing through rough terrain and pastures where yaks graze. The landscape is stunning, with great views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Yak Kharka is a peaceful stop to rest and prepare for the ascent to Thorong Phedi.
Day 10 : Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,500m) – Duration: 3-4 hours.
Today, you will make your way to Thorong Phedi, the base camp for Thorong La Pass. This is the final stop before attempting the challenging pass crossing. The trail is steep and rugged but offers magnificent views of the surrounding peaks. Once you arrive at Thorong Phedi, it’s important to rest and prepare for the high-altitude crossing the next day.
Day 11 : Trek from Thorong Phedi via Thorong La Pass (5,416m) to Muktinath (3,802m) – Duration: 7-9 hours.
This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek, as you’ll cross the legendary Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters, one of the highest trekking passes in the world. The trek starts early in the morning to avoid strong winds, and the ascent is gradual but demanding. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. After crossing the pass, you’ll descend to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists.
Day 12 : Drive from Muktinath to Tatopani (1,200m) – Duration: 6-7 hours.
After a rewarding trek, you’ll take a scenic drive from Muktinath to Tatopani, a village known for its natural hot springs. The drive offers beautiful views of the valley and mountains, providing a relaxing experience before the final stretch of the trek. At Tatopani, you can unwind and soak in the rejuvenating hot springs, perfect for relaxing your tired muscles.
Day 13 : Trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani (2,860m) – Duration: 7-8 hours.
Today’s trek takes you to Ghorepani, passing through forests, terraced fields, and charming villages along the way. The path offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Once you arrive in Ghorepani, you can enjoy the beautiful setting and prepare for an early morning hike to Poon Hill.
Day 14 : Hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) & Trek to Nayapul, then Drive to Pokhara (850m) – Duration: 7-9 hours.
On the final day of your trek, you’ll wake up early to hike to Poon Hill for a breathtaking sunrise view over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. After the sunrise, you’ll descend to Nayapul, where you’ll take a scenic drive back to Pokhara, marking the end of this unforgettable 14-day trek through the Annapurna region.
SERVICES
Cost Included in Your Package
- Drive from Pokhara to Besisahar by local bus and Besisahar to Jagat 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
🗺️ Trek Difficulty
The Annapurna Circuit Tilicho Lake Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is considered moderately challenging. The trek involves high-altitude hiking with a few difficult ascents, notably at Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters), which requires good physical fitness and proper acclimatization. While it's achievable for most trekkers with basic trekking experience, it’s essential to be prepared for altitude-related challenges.
🏔️ Best Time to Trek
The ideal time for this trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather is stable, and the views of the mountains are clear. These seasons are perfect for enjoying the spectacular landscapes and cultural experiences. Winter (December to February) can be harsh, and monsoon (June to August) brings rainfall that can make trails slippery and challenging.
🚶♂️ Fitness Level Required
The trek requires a moderate level of fitness. You should be comfortable walking for 5-7 hours a day on uneven terrain with some steep sections. Regular cardio exercise and a few hikes before the trek can help you prepare. Be sure to pace yourself and stay hydrated throughout the journey.
🏞️ Acclimatization and Rest Days
Acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness, especially around Manang and Tilicho Base Camp. The trek includes a rest day at Manang to help your body adjust to the altitude before heading higher. You can take a side trip to Ice Lake or just rest and explore the village.
💧 Water Purification
You will have access to drinking water along the trek, but it’s recommended to purify water by using water purification tablets or filters. This ensures safe drinking water, especially in remote villages where the water might not be as clean. Always carry enough water for each day’s trek.
🥾 Packing List
Essential items to pack for the trek include:
- Layered clothing (for warmth and flexibility).
- Trekking boots (broken-in and comfortable).
- Rain gear (jackets and pants).
- Sunscreen (high SPF for high-altitude protection).
- First aid kit (including altitude sickness medication).
- Sleeping bag (suitable for cold temperatures).
🛏️ Accommodation
Accommodation on the trek ranges from teahouses in villages to more basic lodges at higher altitudes. Most teahouses offer shared rooms with basic facilities, including a bed, blanket, and communal bathrooms. It’s essential to book in advance during the peak seasons for better availability.
💰 Cost of the Trek
The total cost of the trek varies depending on the time of year, the route, and your style of trekking. A typical budget for the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake, Ghorepani, and Poon Hill Trek ranges from $1,000 to $1,500 USD for a standard trek, covering permits, transportation, accommodation, and meals. Additional costs include hiring guides or porters if desired.
🌄 Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness is a risk above 3,000 meters. It’s important to recognize early symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, or nausea. The trek includes ample time for acclimatization, but if you experience symptoms, it’s vital to descend immediately and seek medical attention if necessary. Drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcohol and smoking to help prevent altitude sickness.
🍲 Food and Water
During the trek, you'll find a variety of Nepali dishes such as dal bhat, momo, and noodles. These are typically available at teahouses along the route. While food is safe in most teahouses, it’s always wise to eat freshly prepared meals to minimize stomach issues. For drinking water, carry your own purification tablets or use filters available at teahouses.
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FAQS
What is the best time to do the Annapurna Circuit Tilicho Lake Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek?
The best times to trek this route are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is dry and clear, providing spectacular views of the mountains. Avoid the monsoon (June to August) due to heavy rains, and winter (December to February) can be too cold and snowy at higher elevations.
Is prior trekking experience required for this trek?
While prior trekking experience is not mandatory, it is highly recommended. The trek involves long days of walking at higher altitudes, and prior experience with multi-day treks or hiking on uneven terrain will help. You should be in good physical condition to enjoy the trek fully.
How high is the Thorong La Pass?
The Thorong La Pass is the highest point of the trek, standing at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet). Crossing this pass is challenging due to the altitude, so it’s crucial to acclimatize properly and take the necessary precautions for altitude sickness.
Do I need a guide for the trek?
While it’s not mandatory to hire a guide for the trek, it is recommended, especially if you’re unfamiliar with high-altitude treks. A guide can provide assistance with navigation, translation, safety, and emergency situations. Hiring a guide also supports the local economy.
How long does the trek take?
The trek usually takes 12-14 days depending on the pace, acclimatization, and stops along the way. The duration includes rest days for acclimatization at Manang and possibly other points, as well as side trips like the hike to Tilicho Lake.
What permits do I need for this trek?
You will need the following permits:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
- Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card. These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara before starting the trek.
What kind of food can I expect during the trek?
You will find a range of Nepali and international dishes at teahouses, including dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momos (dumplings), noodles, and soups. Food along the trek is safe to eat, but it’s better to choose freshly cooked meals to avoid stomach issues.
What is the accommodation like on the trek?
Accommodation along the route typically consists of teahouses that offer basic rooms with a bed, blanket, and shared bathrooms. The rooms are simple, and the facilities may be basic, but they provide warmth and shelter. It’s a good idea to book your rooms in advance during the peak seasons.
Can I rent equipment for the trek?
Yes, you can rent trekking gear in Pokhara or Kathmandu. Renting gear such as sleeping bags, jackets, and trekking poles is a good option if you don’t want to carry them with you from home. Make sure to rent high-quality items for your comfort and safety.
How can I avoid altitude sickness during the trek?
To minimize the risk of altitude sickness, it’s important to:
- Acclimatize properly by taking rest days, especially at Manang and Tilicho Base Camp.
- Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol.
- Ascend slowly to allow your body time to adjust.
- If you feel symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or nausea, it’s essential to descend to a lower altitude immediately.
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