ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT WITH TILICHO LAKE TREK 17 DAYS
ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT WITH TILICHO LAKE TREK 17 DAYS
The 17 Days Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek offers an exciting and challenging journey through the heart of the Annapurna region, where trekkers are treated to stunning mountain vistas, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural experiences.
Your adventure begins with an arrival in Kathmandu, followed by a drive to Besisahar and a jeep ride to Dharapani, where the trek officially starts. From here, you’ll trek through picturesque villages like Pisang and Manang, gaining views of the surrounding peaks and deepening your connection with the culture of the region. A day of rest in Manang ensures you acclimatize before heading higher into the mountains.
The trek continues towards Shree Kharka, passing through more remote areas as you ascend to the base camp of Tilicho Lake. This stunning alpine lake, located at an altitude of 4,949 meters, is the highest lake in the world and offers an incredible sight for trekkers. After spending time at Tilicho Lake, you will retrace your steps to Shree Kharka before continuing onward to Yak Kharka and Thorong Phedi, the last stop before attempting the legendary Thorong La Pass, which stands at 5,416 meters. Crossing the pass is a major highlight of the trek, offering sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
After descending from the pass, you’ll reach Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, where you can visit the revered Muktinath Temple. From here, you will travel by jeep to Tatopani, known for its natural hot springs, providing an excellent opportunity to relax and recover.
The trek continues with a hike to Ghorepani and a sunrise excursion to Poon Hill, offering some of the best views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The journey concludes with a trek down to Nayapul followed by a drive to Pokhara, and then back to Kathmandu for your departure. This trek is a challenging but rewarding adventure that will leave you with unforgettable memories of the Himalayas.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu and Transfer to Hotel.
Upon arrival at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport, you’ll be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel in the city. This day is for you to relax and get accustomed to the bustling atmosphere of Kathmandu. You can also use this time to explore the vibrant Thamel area or visit some local landmarks, depending on your arrival time.
Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani via Besisahar (8-10 hours)
After breakfast, you’ll embark on an early morning drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar, the main access point to the Annapurna Circuit. From Besisahar, you’ll continue by local jeep to Dharapani, which marks the official starting point of your trek. The drive is scenic, offering views of green hills, rivers, and distant mountains.
Day 3 : Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2,650m) – 5-6 hours.
Today, the trek begins with a gradual climb through lush forests, picturesque villages, and along the river. As you ascend, you will get stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Lamjung Himal. You’ll reach Chame, a small town known for its beautiful scenery and a great place to rest for the night.
Day 4 : Trek from Chame to Pisang (3,300m) – 5-6 hours.
Continuing your ascent, today’s trek takes you through dense forests and along dramatic cliffs. The route offers more spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, including Pisang Peak. Once you arrive at Pisang, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Annapurna Range, including Annapurna II and Manaslu.
Day 5 : Trek from Pisang to Manang (3,500m) via Ngawal – 6-7 hours.
You’ll begin your trek from Pisang and head towards Ngawal, a traditional village that offers excellent views of the surrounding peaks. After Ngawal, the path continues toward Manang, a large village with Tibetan influence. The views of Gangapurna, Annapurna III, and Tilicho Peak are simply awe-inspiring.
Day 6 : Exploration and Acclimatization Day at Manang.
This day is set aside for acclimatization to help your body adjust to the higher altitude. You’ll explore the local area, perhaps visiting the Gangapurna Lake or Manang Monastery, and enjoy the magnificent views of the surrounding mountains. This rest day is essential for preventing altitude sickness.
Day 7 : Trek from Manang to Siri Kharka (4,060m) – 4-5 hours.
With your body acclimatized, you’ll continue your trek towards Siri Kharka. The trail ascends gradually through dry, sparse landscapes and offers views of distant peaks. Siri Kharka is a peaceful stop, where you can enjoy the serene beauty of the mountains.
Day 8 : Trek from Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp (4,140m) – 5-6 hours.
Today’s trek takes you towards Tilicho Base Camp, the gateway to the world’s highest lake, Tilicho Lake. The path is more rugged, with rocky sections and steeper inclines. As you gain altitude, the scenery becomes even more spectacular. The night at base camp prepares you for the visit to the lake the next day.
Day 9 : Visit Tilicho Lake (4,949m) and Return to Siri Kharka – 5-6 hours.
This is one of the highlights of your trek. After an early start, you’ll reach Tilicho Lake at an altitude of 4,949 meters. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the lake is a beautiful sight. After soaking in the views, you’ll descend back to Siri Kharka for an overnight stay.
Day 10 : Trek from Siri Kharka to Yak Kharka (4,040m) – 4-5 hours.
You’ll begin descending slightly towards Yak Kharka, a small settlement surrounded by wild meadows. The trek today is moderate, and you’ll pass through small villages with traditional houses, and get fantastic views of Annapurna and Manaslu mountains.
Day 11 : Trek from Yak Kharka to Phedi or High Camp (4,600m) – 4-5 hours.
Today’s trek will take you to High Camp, or Thorong Phedi. The trail becomes steeper as you approach the foot of Thorong La Pass. The night spent at Phedi or High Camp prepares you for the challenging pass crossing tomorrow.
Day 12 : Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m) and Trek to Muktinath (3,400m) – 8-9 hours.
This is one of the most challenging days of the trek. You’ll wake up early to cross Thorong La Pass, the highest point of your journey at 5,416 meters. The ascent is steep, but the views from the top are breathtaking. After descending from the pass, you’ll continue to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site known for its temple and spiritual significance.
Day 13 : Drive from Muktinath to Tatopani (1,300m) – 5-6 hours.
After visiting the Muktinath Temple, you’ll board a jeep and head towards Tatopani, a village famous for its natural hot springs. Relax and unwind in the hot springs, soothing your muscles after the strenuous days of trekking.
Day 14 : Trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani (2,870m) – 7-8 hours.
Today’s trek takes you from Tatopani to Ghorepani, a village located at the edge of the Annapurna Conservation Area. The trail ascends through beautiful forests and terraced fields. Once you arrive in Ghorepani, you’ll be treated to magnificent views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna.
Day 15 : Hike to Poon Hill (3,210m), Trek to Nayapul (1,000m), and Drive to Pokhara (850m) – 7-8 hours.
In the early morning, you’ll hike to Poon Hill, one of the best sunrise viewpoints in the Annapurnas. After enjoying the panoramic sunrise views, you’ll descend to Nayapul, where you’ll catch a drive back to Pokhara, a charming lakeside city, for some well-deserved rest.
Day 16 : Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,400m) – 6-7 hours.
After spending the night in Pokhara, you’ll drive back to Kathmandu. The scenic journey takes you through valleys and hills, offering views of the Trisuli River. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll have time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing before your departure.
Day 17 : Transfer to the International Airport for Your Final Departure.
Your adventure comes to an end as you are transferred to the airport for your flight back home. Reflect on the unforgettable journey you’ve had in the Annapurna region and the memories created along the way.
SERVICES
Cost Included In Your Package
- Airport pick-up and drop services on a private vehicle.
- 2 night’s hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
- Kathmandu - Besisahar transfers on a local bus, Pokhara - Kathmandu transportation on a Tourist bus
- One night hotel accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast
- Muktinath To Tatopani transportation on a Local Bus
- Besisahar to Dharapani transfer on a Local sharing Jeep
- 3 Meals a Day [Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner] during the trek
- Accommodation on beautiful cozy tea houses as per the itinerary
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) entry permits and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) cards
- Experienced English-speaking, government licensed and ministry of tourism trained trekking guide with meals, accommodation, salary and insurance
- Strong experienced Sherpa helpers [porters] with meals, accommodation, salary, and insurance
- Arrangement of emergency helicopter service (paid by your Travel Insurance Company).
- Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag and walking poles (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after trip completed).
- Comprehensive first aid medical kit carried by the guide / American medical association approved Oximeter
- Sherpa Expedition and Trekking T-shirt
- Trip achievement certificate after successful trip completion.
- Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) which will ensure your health during the trek.
- Assistant guide for groups of 8 or more people.
Costs Exclude
- Meals whilst you are in Kathmandu & Pokhara - lunch, and dinner.
- Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $30 USD for 15-day, $50 USD for 30 Days, and $125 USD for 90 Days visa.
- Personal travel and medical insurance.
- International airfare.
- Your personal expenses.
- All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic, soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, extra food, cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses)
- All desserts & sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
- Hot shower and battery charging at the tea houses.
- Tips for the guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected)
- NOTE: If you return earlier from the trek due to sickness or any problem, the money you paid for the flight, hotel, mountain room, food, etc. is nonrefundable, and you will need to bear the expenses for the hotel, food, etc. in Kathmandu yourself.
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
💡 Good to Know Before You Go
Embarking on the 17 Days Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is an incredible journey that requires careful preparation and awareness. Here are some important things to consider before you hit the trail:
🌍 Altitude Considerations
The trek involves reaching altitudes as high as 5,416 meters at Thorong La Pass and visiting Tilicho Lake at 4,949 meters, so altitude sickness is a real concern. It’s crucial to follow proper acclimatization protocols. Spend adequate time resting in key locations like Manang, which will help your body adjust to the thinning air. Hydration and a slow, steady pace are essential for your safety.
🥾 Trek Difficulty
The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake is considered a moderate to challenging trek, requiring a good level of physical fitness. The days are long, and the terrain is diverse, from lush valleys to alpine meadows and rocky paths. Be prepared for some steep ascents and descents, especially when crossing Thorong La Pass. However, the reward of reaching the highest points will make all the effort worthwhile.
🦠 Health and Safety
When trekking in Nepal, it’s essential to carry a first aid kit that includes essentials like medication for altitude sickness, diarrhea, pain relief, and antiseptics. You should also ensure you are up-to-date on vaccinations recommended for travelers in Nepal. Always follow hygiene guidelines, especially in remote areas where clean water and sanitation can be limited.
🧳 Packing Essentials
Packing light yet adequately for the trek is vital. Layered clothing is key, as temperatures can vary widely depending on altitude. Don’t forget good-quality trekking boots, a sleeping bag for the higher altitudes, and a rain jacket for unpredictable weather. A lightweight daypack, along with a water bottle, sunscreen, and headlamp, is also necessary for daily use.
🌄 Weather Conditions
The best times to do the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek are in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is more predictable, and the skies are clear. In winter, temperatures can drop drastically, especially at higher altitudes, and snowfall can make the trails more challenging. During monsoon season (June to August), the trails can be slippery, and heavy rain can cause landslides.
💰 Trek Costs and Permits
You’ll need to arrange for trekking permits, which include the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. These can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Additionally, remember to carry enough Nepali rupees, as ATMs are scarce in remote areas, and many places don’t accept card payments.
🏨 Accommodations
Along the Annapurna Circuit, the accommodation options are basic teahouses or lodges. These provide a warm bed and meals, but the standard may vary from place to place. Hot showers and electricity are not always available in higher altitudes, so be prepared for basic facilities as you get closer to the mountains.
🍲 Food and Water
You’ll find a variety of foods along the trek, from local Dal Bhat to international dishes like pasta and pizza in the higher regions. However, the food can be more expensive as you climb, so budget accordingly. Always drink filtered or boiled water to avoid waterborne illnesses.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be better prepared to tackle the incredible adventure that is the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek. Enjoy the stunning landscapes, rich culture, and the unforgettable experience of trekking through the Himalayas!
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FAQS
How difficult is the 17 Days Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek?
This trek is considered moderate to challenging due to its duration, varying terrain, and high-altitude crossings. You will need to be in good physical condition, and prior trekking experience at moderate altitudes will be helpful.
Do I need prior trekking experience for this trek?
While previous trekking experience is not mandatory, it is highly recommended. The trek involves long days and altitude gains, so a basic understanding of hiking and stamina is important. Regular physical training before the trek is advised.
How high do I go during this trek?
The highest point of the trek is Thorong La Pass, which stands at 5,416 meters. Additionally, you will visit Tilicho Lake at 4,949 meters, making acclimatization a key part of the trek.
How do I prevent altitude sickness during the trek?
Altitude sickness can be prevented by acclimatizing properly, which is why you’ll have rest days in places like Manang. It’s important to stay hydrated, avoid overexertion, and listen to your body. If you experience symptoms, descend to a lower altitude immediately.
What should I pack for this trek?
You should pack lightweight, warm, and layered clothing for varying weather conditions. Essential items include a good-quality sleeping bag, trekking boots, rain jacket, water bottle, sunscreen, and a first aid kit.
Can I get food and accommodation along the trail?
Yes, along the Annapurna Circuit, teahouses and lodges provide basic accommodation and food. While the food varies from region to region, you’ll find local dishes like Dal Bhat and international options like pasta. Accommodation in higher altitudes is simpler, with fewer amenities.
How do I get permits for the trek?
To trek in the Annapurna region, you need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card. These can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
What is the best time of year to do this trek?
The ideal times for the trek are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is clear, and temperatures are more moderate. Avoid trekking during the monsoon (June-August) or winter (December-February) due to challenging weather conditions.
Can I do the trek without a guide?
While it’s possible to do the trek independently, it’s highly recommended to trek with a guide, especially for those not experienced in high-altitude trekking. A guide can assist with navigation, safety, and understanding the local culture.
Are there any challenges during the trek?
Some challenges you may face include altitude sickness, unpredictable weather, and difficult terrain, particularly when crossing Thorong La Pass. However, with proper acclimatization, planning, and a good pace, these challenges can be overcome.
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