The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake is an epic journey through diverse landscapes and cultures in the Himalayas. Starting from Besisahar, trekkers experience everything from lush lowlands to high-altitude deserts. Along the way, they enjoy stunning views of peaks like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu, ending at the breathtaking Tilicho Lake, one of the world’s highest lakes.
Trekkers pass through ethnic villages, especially Manang, where Tibetan-influenced culture shines. Days spent here help with acclimatization and offer time to explore monasteries and local traditions. Tilicho Lake, revered in Hindu and Buddhist beliefs, is a challenging climb but rewards with its stunning turquoise waters.
The journey peaks at the Thorong La Pass, reaching 5,416 meters with panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The descent brings trekkers to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists. This route combines intense adventure with cultural immersion.
Ideal for fit trekkers, the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake 4,919 meters offers an extraordinary Himalayan experience. It’s perfect for those wanting to explore Nepal’s best landscapes, from high lakes to mountain passes, all while connecting with the region’s rich culture and spirituality.
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, situated at an altitude of 1,400 meters, our team will warmly welcome you to Nepal with a company logo placard. You'll be transferred to your hotel where you can rest and rejuvenate after your journey. Take this opportunity to explore the vibrant streets of Kathmandu, immerse yourself in the rich culture and heritage, bustling markets, and savor delicious Nepali cuisine. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Today, you'll embark on a guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu, visiting two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Pashupatinath Temple, the holiest Hindu temple in Nepal, and Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. These sacred sites offer insights into Nepal's spiritual and cultural heritage. After the sightseeing tour, you'll have free time to prepare for your trek. Our team will assist you in organizing and checking your trekking gear and equipment, ensuring you are fully prepared for the adventure ahead followed by a brief orientation session to discuss the details of your upcoming trek. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.
We begin our day with a 6–7 hour drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar (760m) early dawn, the starting point of the Annapurna Circuit, passing through lush valleys, terraced fields, and picturesque villages. After a short rest, we start our trek to Ngadi (930m), covering approximately 8 kilometers in 2–3 hours of easy walking. The trail takes us through charming countryside, crossing suspension bridges and following the Marsyangdi River, with views of local villages and serene waterfalls. We end the day in a cozy teahouse in Ngadi, surrounded by tranquil hills and terraced farmlands.
Starting our day in Ngadi (930m), we trek toward Chamje (1,430m) on a trail that winds through picturesque villages, terraced fields, and dense forests, following the Marsyangdi River. The journey begins with a gradual ascent to Bahundanda (1,310m), a charming hilltop village offering stunning valley views, before descending to the riverbank and continuing to Syange (1,080m). From there, the trail becomes rugged, climbing alongside cascading waterfalls and dramatic cliffs. After covering approximately 15 kilometers in 6–7 hours, we reach Chamje, a tranquil village surrounded by lush landscapes, where we relax in the comfort of a local teahouse.
Starting our trek from Chamje (1,410m), we make our way toward Danakyu (2,300m), covering approximately 16 kilometers in 6–7 hours. The trail begins with a gradual ascent, crossing the Marsyangdi River via suspension bridges and winding through lush forests. We pass through Tal (1,700m), a beautiful village set in a wide valley with cascading waterfalls, and continue toward Dharapani (1,860m), the gateway to the Manang District. As we climb higher, the landscape transitions into alpine forests with glimpses of towering peaks. The final stretch brings us to Danakyu, a tranquil village surrounded by dense woods and panoramic views, where we rest for the night in a cozy teahouse.
We begin our day in Danakyu (2,300m), trekking toward Chame (2,670m) on a 14-kilometer journey taking 5–6 hours. The trail ascends steeply through dense pine and rhododendron forests, offering refreshing shade and occasional glimpses of snow-capped peaks. As we climb, we pass through Timang (2,750m), a charming village with breathtaking views of Mt. Manaslu and surrounding mountains, before descending slightly to the riverside settlement of Koto (2,600m). The route features suspension bridges and follows the Marsyangdi River's scenic flow. We reach Chame, the district headquarters of Manang, surrounded by majestic peaks and offering comfortable teahouses for a well-deserved rest.
Starting from Chame (2,670m), we trek toward Upper Pisang (3,300m), covering approximately 15 kilometers in 5–6 hours. The trail follows the Marsyangdi River, passing through dense pine forests and rocky landscapes. We encounter the striking Paungda Danda rock face, a unique geological feature that curves dramatically above the valley. As we continue, we pass through peaceful villages like Bhratang (2,850m) and Dhukur Pokhari (3,200m), each offering a glimpse of traditional life and incredible mountain views. Along the way, we enjoy panoramic vistas of Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, and Pisang Peak. The trek culminates in Upper Pisang, where we rest for the night in a cozy teahouse, surrounded by the magnificent Himalayan landscape.
From Upper Pisang (3,300m), we embark on a 9-kilometer trek to Manang (3,540m), which takes around 5–6 hours. The trail winds through picturesque forests and alpine meadows, offering stunning views of towering peaks. Along the way, we pass the village of Braga (3,300m), home to a historic Tibetan monastery and traditional stone houses. As we approach Manang, the landscape opens up to reveal breathtaking views of Gangapurna and Annapurna III. We cross several suspension bridges and gradually ascend towards Manang, where we spend the night. The village offers a chance to explore local culture, visit monasteries, and take in the spectacular mountain scenery.
In Manang (3,540m), we take a day for acclimatization, which is crucial for adjusting to the higher altitude and preventing altitude sickness. The day is dedicated to resting and engaging in light activities, such as a short hike to the Gangapurna Lake or visiting the Manang Monastery, which offers stunning views of surrounding peaks like Annapurna III and Gangapurna. This allows our bodies to adapt to the altitude while enjoying the local culture and stunning landscapes. Staying hydrated, eating nutritious meals, and taking it easy helps prepare for the higher elevations ahead.
From Manang (3,540m), we begin our trek to Tilicho Base Camp (4,200m), covering 7–8 kilometers in 4–5 hours. The trail ascends gradually through alpine meadows and rocky terrain, offering magnificent views of Tilicho Peak along the way. We pass through Khangsar (3,740m), a small village known for its traditional stone houses and incredible mountain vistas. After crossing a suspension bridge over the Khangsar River, the path becomes steeper and more rugged as we climb toward the base camp. The scenery grows more dramatic, with views of the Tilicho Glacier and surrounding peaks. We arrive at Tilicho Base Camp, surrounded by towering mountains and glaciers, where we rest for the night in the chilly, serene atmosphere.
We begin with an early morning hike from Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m) to the stunning Tilicho Lake (4,919m), a 2–3 hour ascent through rugged terrain. The lake, nestled at a high altitude, offers breathtaking views of the turquoise waters surrounded by towering peaks and glaciers. After soaking in the beauty of the lake, we return to base camp and then descend toward Shree Kharka (4,070m), covering about 5–6 kilometers in 3–4 hours. The descent takes us through rocky paths and alpine meadows, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. We spend the night in Shree Kharka, a peaceful settlement surrounded by the impressive landscapes of the Annapurna region.
From Shree Kharka (4,070m), we begin our trek to Yak Kharka (4,210m), covering a distance of approximately 6–7 kilometers in 3–4 hours. The trail ascends gradually, passing through alpine meadows and sparse vegetation. As we trek, we encounter a more rugged landscape, with views of the surrounding peaks and the growing presence of yaks grazing in the area. The path is less steep than previous sections, offering a moderate ascent. Upon arrival at Yak Kharka, we settle into a local teahouse, where we can rest and acclimatize to the increasing altitude.
From Yak Kharka (4,210m), we trek to High Camp (4,800m), covering approximately 4–5 kilometers in 3–4 hours. The trail becomes steeper as we ascend through alpine terrain, passing rocky paths and sparse vegetation. As we climb, the landscape transforms into a more barren, high-altitude environment, with spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. The air thins, and we feel the altitude more strongly, so it’s important to pace ourselves. Upon reaching High Camp, we settle into a basic teahouse or camping area, where we prepare for the challenging ascent to Thorong La Pass the following day.
From High Camp (4,800m), we begin our challenging trek to Muktinath (3,710m), covering 17–18 kilometers in 8–10 hours. We start early to reach Thorong La Pass (5,416m), the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit, where we are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. After reaching the pass, we begin a steep descent toward Muktinath, a sacred site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists, famous for its temple and the holy water spouts. The trail moves through rocky, barren landscapes before gradually transitioning to more lush, fertile terrain as we approach Muktinath. We end our day in Muktinath, where we can explore the spiritual site and relax after a physically demanding trek.
After completing the trek to Muktinath (3,710m), we have the option to drive to either Jomsom (2,700m) or Marpha (2,670m), both offering a more relaxed pace after the challenging trek. The drive to Jomsom takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, covering roughly 20 kilometers along a rugged road that follows the Kali Gandaki River, passing through scenic villages and offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Jomsom, the district headquarters of Mustang, has various amenities and accommodations for a comfortable stay. Alternatively, we can drive to Marpha, a charming village known for its apple orchards and traditional stone houses. This drive takes about 2 hours and leads to a peaceful village, perfect for unwinding and experiencing the local culture.
I had an opportunity to trek in the Annapurna Region joining Summit Trekkers and it was a marvellous experience. Highly recommend their service.
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