The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake is a popular classic trek in Nepal. Each year, more than fifty thousands travelers come for this trek from all around the world. You encircle the Annapurna massif and cover between 110-130 miles by walking in this trek. Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek takes the trail through Manang Valley to the highest altitude lake in the earth Tilicho Lake at 4919 m trekking through the lush subtropical countryside, over moraine, through alpine forests, rhododendron forest along arid cliffs, and over the Thorong La pass (5,416m), Annapurna Circuit Trek is quite challenging but steeped in Hindu myth and surrounded by the Himalayas. Mt. Tilicho, Mt. Nilgiri, Khangsar, and Muktinath are some of the peaks on show around the Tilicho lake – sometimes even being reflected in the cold, clear turquoise green waters. And of course, Stunning views of the Annapurna accompany the trekkers throughout the whole trip. Tilicho lake was formed by the glacial melt off the northern slopes of the Annapurna region and its historical and religious significance as it is thought to be mentioned in the Hindu religious book, called name Ramayana. In contrast, here are Buddhist villages to be crossed to reach the Tilicho lake, taking their Buddhist culture and religion from nearby Tibet.
After exploring the lake and Tilicho Base Camp, the trekking paths leads out of the Marsyangdi Valley, through yak pastures and over the Thorong La Pass (5,416m) which is one of the widest passes in the world. Crossing the High pass is challenging, and is done at around 3 am before the afternoon winds make it more difficult for the walk-in high pass. The views, however, are stunning of Mt Gundang, Syagang, Thorong Peak, and Mt Khatungkan. After we cross the pass, there are more interesting villages: Muktinath, with its Hindu temple, 108 water taps, and eternal flame; Kagbeni Village with its monastery, strange human-like clay effigies, and Jomsom, a busy market town, and main transportation hub of Mustang, with its airport, bus and jeep stations. After Jomsom, drive to Tatopani and spend the night. Tatopani is famous for its natural hot springs; it is a place where you can soak in the hot springs. The next day you hike up to Ghorepani, Poon Hill (sunrise viewpoint) to Tadapani, Birethanti then we will drive to Pokhara and drive back to Kathmandu.
Our 16 days on Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is not only about enjoying the stunning scenery of the high Himalayas and hilly landscapes. You can also learn about locals with their unique culture and tradition. Delve into their lifestyle and visit more about their way of living.
An early start to the day sees us on a local bus heading to Syange. On the route you will get to see typical Nepali countryside and views of the mountains on the Annapurna circuit trek. You will pass raging rivers, lush vegetation and terraced fields of the farmers. Tonight we will stay at a guest house in Dharapani.
The trail today is one that has been previously affected by landslides. We initially pass through a small village before starting on a gradual uphill trail to Bagarchhap, a typical Tibetan style village in the forest. We then follow the left bank of the river towards Koto, the gateway to the admired Nar Phu Valley Trekking route. We have a fairly easy trek from here to Chame, the administrative center of the Manang District.
After leaving Chame we come to Telekhu Village and on the trail have some excellent views of Annapurna and Pisang (6091m). We then re-cross the river on a suspension bridge to the south bank of the Marsyangdi River and climb up through a pine-forest as we follow the trail through the upper reaches of the Manang valley on our way to Pisang.
The town of Pisang is where we start our trek into the more isolated Upper Manang region. We first head to the Tibetan village of Braga with its distinctive architecture and houses that are constructed one upon the other. One of the main attractions here is its Gompa (Buddhist temple), the largest in the Manang region. Manang is also a favourite place with trekkers, as well as being the perfect place to acclimatize before heading to higher altitudes.
Health experts strongly recommend that before heading to higher altitudes that trekkers spend some time acclimatizing. They also add that one should remain active during this acclimatization period. From Manang you will have some truly wonderful views of Annapurna II; Annapurna III (7555m); Gangapurna (7454 m); and in the south to Tilicho (7132 m); and the Grand Barrier (a 7000m ridge) in the west; Chulu West (6583m) and Chulu East (6059m) meters in the north. To assist with the acclimatization process we will climb up to Mt. Khangsar (3756m).
This morning we cross a rive and then trek through an alpine forest and will pass through several settlements, including Khangsar and Siri Kharka before arriving at the Tilicho Base Camp. The trail is strewn with rubble and the aftereffects of landslides, but at sunset we will be rewarded with some awesome sunset views over the mountains. We will stay in a guest house at Tilicho Base camp for the night.
At around 4:30 am we head to Tilicho Lake with its pristine turquoise water and then return to Tilicho Base Camp for lunch before heading off to Shree Kharka where we will stay the night.
This morning we begin our day by descending to Khangsar Village via Tare Gumba (3870m) - well-known for its Buddhist monastery. We then follow the trail through the Thorong Khola Valley until we arrive at the abandoned village of Old Khangsar before coming to Yak Kharka where we will stay overnight.
As we ascend we will slowly get used to the higher altitudes. We will take the trail along the east bank of the Jarang Khola (river) and be bordered by steep bluffs before coming to Thorong Phedi (meaning foot hills). We may decide to trek for another hour to High Camp (4800m). If we are lucky we may get to see the famous blue sheep and even the secretive snow leopard! This is also the habitat to the Lammergeyer (bearded vulture). There is also a belief the fabled griffons (creature with a lion’s body & bird’s head) inhabit this region.
Today is most likely going to be the hardest day on the trail as we trek for around 8 to 9 hours. The higher altitude adds to the difficulty, and at times strong winds in these upper regions make it harder going. On the trail we will most likely pass sheep, yaks and merchants transporting various goods along the trails from Tibet. Once we arrive at Thorong La Pass we will have some amazing views of Annapurna, Gangapurna and the stunning peak of Khatungkang (6484m). We will then descend around 1600 metres with the trail gradually more undulating and relatively easy-going before we arrive at Jomsom.
Today we will enjoy a mountainous scenic drive to Tatopani from Jomsom with some splendid mountain views on the route. We will pass through several small villages before arriving at Tatopani where we stay overnight. The therapeutic hot springs here are an ideal place to relax those tired limbs.
This morning we follow the trail, cross a suspension bridge over the Kaligandaki River and then continue until we come to a junction of two trails from where we ascend through terraced farms and villages. We then trek through a dense rhododendron forest before coming to the village of Chitre and eventually to Ghorepani where we will stay the night.
We will be up bright and early – before sunrise, in order to appreciate the sunrise views over the mountains. We will have some of the finest mountain views in Nepal from Poon Hill lookout. The rising sun will cast its light in various shades over the snow covered mountains and will be entrenched in your mind forever. We will then head back to Ghorepani for breakfast and then continue on to Tadapani where we will stay the night.
This morning we will wake up to views of Mt. Machhapuchare (Fishtail) and Annapurna South. The trail takes us through forested hills. The Gurung people are the dominant caste in Ghandruk. You will have an opportunity to explore the village and enjoy their warm hospitality. From Ghandruk we will have some fantastic views of the Annapurna Massif.
Today is the last day of trekking in the Annapurna region as we head down to Nayapul. From Nayapul we will go by car to Pokhara where we will stay in a 3 Star hotel for the night. Once settled in your hotel you can head out and explore the city or enjoy the sunset from one of the many cafes next to Phewa Tal (lake).
This morning we head back to Kathmandu by tourist bus. We will stop along the way for lunch and refreshments. On the route we will pass villages, raging rivers and see numerous terraced fields being attended to by farmers. After your arrival in Kathmandu, and after you have checked in to your hotel.
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.
Toiletries (tissues, toilet paper, moisturizer, lip balm, sunscreen, sanitary pads, hand sanitizer, nail clippers, a small mirror, toothbrush, toothpaste, glasses, contacts, etc.)
You will be accommodated in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu. During the trek, we will be staying at lodges/ teahouses. You may find comfort and better quality teahouses - having attached bathroom at lower levels- until you reach higher elevations, where the accommodation is more basic with bare necessities.
In Kathmandu, your hotel includes breakfast, whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek. A staple food of the Manang & Mustang regions is potatoes, oats, buckwheat, Sherpa stew, and Tibetan bread. Sherpa’s’ started farming potatoes when the first seeds were introduced to the region in the early 90s. There is a limited choice of food at higher elevations and except many potato dishes. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates – an excellent source of energy needed at high altitudes.
We use a private car for sightseeing and for the airport to hotel pick and drop off. We use public transportation or local buses during the trek.
This can be a challenging trek where you often have to walk 6-7 hours a day. You need past experience of hiking or trekking but if you have done any kind of trekking activities then it is always a plus! We have met people from all walks of life, shapes, and sizes who have completed the trek. The only difficult part is when altitude sickness strikes and the effect that it can have on your body. Before leaving for Nepal it is good if you can prepare yourself physically by increasing your stamina and oxygen intake.
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The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is an extended version of the Annapurna Circuit Trek that includes a side trip to Tilicho Lake. Tilicho Lake is one of the highest lakes in the world, located at an altitude of 4,919 meters.
The total length of the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is approximately 230-250 kilometers, depending on the specific route taken.
On average, it takes around 9-23 days to complete the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek, including rest days and acclimatization days.
Yes, the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is considered to be more challenging than the Annapurna Circuit Trek alone. The trek involves steep ascents and descents, high altitude, and longer walking hours due to the additional side trip to Tilicho Lake.
The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek offers all the highlights of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, including stunning views of the Himalayan peaks and diverse landscapes. Additionally, it takes you to the beautiful Tilicho Lake, surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
No, you do not need a separate permit for the Tilicho Lake side trip. The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card obtained for the Annapurna Circuit Trek cover the Tilicho Lake side trip as well.
Yes, there are basic tea houses and lodges near Tilicho Lake where trekkers can find accommodation and meals. However, facilities may be more limited compared to the main trekking route.
Altitude sickness can be a concern during the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek, especially when crossing high passes and reaching Tilicho Lake. It is important to acclimatize properly, drink plenty of water, and ascend slowly to minimize the risks.
While it is not mandatory, it is highly recommended to hire a guide and porter for the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek. A guide can provide valuable information about the route, culture, and ensure your safety, while a porter can help carry your heavy backpack and ease the physical load.
Some essential items to pack for the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek include sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing, a good quality backpack, sleeping bag, trekking poles, water purification tablets, first aid kit, sunscreen, and a headlamp, among others.
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The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek with Sherpa Expedition & Trekking was exceptional. The guides were friendly and highly experienced, sharing their knowledge about the region and ensuring our safety. The porters were incredibly supportive, taking care of our gear and assisting when needed. The trek itself was well-organized, with breathtaking views, especially of Tilicho Lake. Sherpa Expedition’s dedication to providing a high-quality experience was evident in every detail. Their friendly and professional service made this trek a memorable adventure.
Our Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek with Sherpa Expedition & Trekking was highly enjoyable. The guides were excellent, providing valuable information and ensuring our safety. They created a positive and supportive trekking environment. The porters were hardworking and friendly, managing our gear with care. The trek was well-organized, with great accommodations and meals. Tilicho Lake was a highlight of the trek. Sherpa Expedition’s excellent support and well-planned adventure made this journey truly enjoyable.
Sherpa Expedition & Trekking offered outstanding service and organization for our Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek. The team was highly professional, managing every aspect of the trek seamlessly. The guides were experienced and attentive, providing valuable insights and ensuring our comfort. The porters worked hard to make our trek comfortable and enjoyable. The logistics were well-handled, and Tilicho Lake was as stunning as advertised. Sherpa Expedition’s commitment to delivering a top-notch trekking experience was evident throughout the journey. A fantastic choice for a well-organized adventure.
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Sherpa Expedition and Trekking is one of the pioneers of Trekking, tour and expedition in Nepal which was established on January 07, 1977, with a motto: ‘Enhancing Tourism possibilities across the Globe’. Sherpa Expedition and Trekking is proud to be recognized as the fifth Trekking and Adventure company authorized by the Tourism Board of Nepal.
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