Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake – 16 Days

We will begin our journey early in the morning, driving from Kathmandu for approximately 6-7 hours (190 km) to Besishar. Along the way, you’ll pass through beautiful villages, farms, fast-flowing rivers, and catch glimpses of the mountain ranges. Since we’ll be traveling by local bus, there may be some unexpected delays due to traffic. As a result, we might not reach Besishar on time to catch the local bus to Jagat, our destination for the day. To avoid such delays, you may opt for a private car/jeep to Jagat for an additional cost.

Upon arrival at Kathmandu airport, our staff will be waiting for you in the arrival zone with a nameplate. Once you arrive, they will greet you and take you to your accommodation in Kathmandu. The hotel will provide you with a description of the arrangements upon check-in.

We will start the next day with an early departure on a local bus heading to Syange. Along the route, you will experience typical Nepali countryside, as well as stunning views of the Annapurna Circuit. The journey will take you past rushing rivers, lush vegetation, and terraced fields cultivated by local farmers. In the evening, we will stay at a guest house in Dharapani.

Trek Distance: 175km / 108miles
Highest Altitude: 1,300m / 4,265ft
Trek Duration: 9 to 10 hours

After breakfast, we begin the second day of our trip. We start by leaving Jagat, crossing a suspension bridge, and reaching Tal Village. At Tal, you’ll witness several waterfalls forming a river by sandy beaches. However, we will continue our journey through fields of barley, rice, and potatoes, leading us to Kodo, one of the largest villages in the Manang Valley. From Kodo, we cross another suspension bridge, climb to a stone Kani, and finally reach Dharapani, where we will spend the night.

The trail today has been affected by previous landslides. We first pass through a small village before starting a gradual uphill trek to Bagarchhap, a typical Tibetan-style village nestled in the forest. From there, we follow the left bank of the river towards Koto, the gateway to the Nar Phu Valley Trekking route. Our trek from here to Chame, the administrative center of the Manang District, is relatively easy.

On another day, after breakfast, we will drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani. The journey takes us through scenic villages, lush forests, and beautiful landscapes. Along the way, we’ll cross the Trishuli River, a popular spot for white-water rafting in Nepal. After a long drive, we will arrive in Dharapani, a picturesque village located in the Manang District, where we will stay overnight.

Trek Distance: 15km / 9.3miles
Highest Altitude: 1,860m / 6,200ft
Trek Duration: 5 hours

Today’s Trek Overview:

Today’s trek takes us through a forest filled with pine, fir, oak, and maple trees, eventually leading us to Chame, the district headquarters of the Manang district. Along the way, we’ll be surrounded by lush green forests, with remarkable views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV (7,525m) above us.

We will also stop at small hot springs to relax for a while. If you wish, you can take a dip in these natural hot springs for a rejuvenating experience.

After leaving Chame, we will pass through Telekhu Village, where we’ll enjoy excellent views of Annapurna and Pisang (6,091m). From there, we’ll re-cross the river on a suspension bridge to the south bank of the Marsyangdi River. We’ll then climb through a pine forest, following the trail up to the upper reaches of the Manang Valley on our way to Pisang.

Acclimatization Day in Manang:

After a few days of ascending to higher altitudes, it’s important for us to take a break and acclimatize to the high altitude. This is crucial to prevent altitude sickness, which can be life-threatening in severe cases.

Manang, located at an altitude of 3,540 meters, is the perfect place for acclimatization. The town offers stunning views of the Annapurna range and is an ideal spot for rest. We will spend the day exploring Manang, visiting the local monastery, and experiencing the unique blend of Tibetan and Nepalese cultures.

In the afternoon, we’ll take a short hike to Gangapurna Lake, situated at 3,800 meters. Surrounded by breathtaking snow-capped peaks, the lake offers a fantastic opportunity for photography. The hike to Gangapurna Lake will also help us acclimatize to the high altitude in preparation for the rest of our trek.

In the evening, we’ll return to our teahouse in Manang for a warm meal and a good night’s sleep.

Trek Distance: 15.5km / 9.6miles
Highest Altitude: 2,610m / 8,890ft
Trek Duration: 6 hours

We walk through a steep, narrow valley to view the Paungda Danda Rock Face – a curved rock face that rises 1,500 meters above the Marshyandi River. From this point, we can also enjoy clear views of Annapurna II to the south and Pisang Peak to the northeast.

After taking in the Paungda Danda Rock Face, we descend to the floor of the Manang Valley, eventually reaching Pisang, our destination for the day. Pisang is the starting point for our trek into the more remote Upper Manang region. Our first stop is the Tibetan village of Braga, known for its distinctive architecture and houses built one upon the other. The main attraction here is its Gompa (Buddhist temple), the largest in the Manang region.

Manang is also a popular stop for trekkers and is an ideal location for acclimatization before heading to higher altitudes. From Chame, the trek continues through an open area and a narrow valley until we reach the massive Paungda Danda Rock, considered sacred by the locals. This rock rises 1,500 meters above the Marshyandi River and provides stunning views of Annapurna II to the south and Pisang Peak to the northeast. Just before reaching Pisang, the trail descends to the Manang Valley floor.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Pisang.

Trek Distance: 13.2km / 8.2miles
Highest Altitude: 3,115m / 10,200ft
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours

Rest and Acclimatization Day at Manang

Upon reaching Manang, we will have gained significant elevation, and our bodies need time to adjust to the high altitudes. Therefore, we will stop in Manang for a day to acclimatize.

Exploration of Manang

We will use this day to explore the area. In the early morning, we will hike up to Gangapurna Lake or Ice Lake. Throughout the day, we will enjoy stunning views of Annapurna III, Tilicho, Pisang, and Chulu Peaks. You are also welcome to explore the village of Manang itself.

Most trekkers take the opportunity to visit the Himalayan Rescue Association in Vraga village to learn about Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)—its symptoms and preventative measures.

Trek to Tilicho Base Camp

Later in the day, we will cross a river and trek through an alpine forest, passing several settlements including Khangsar and Siri Kharka, before arriving at Tilicho Base Camp (4,150 meters). The trail can be challenging, with rubble and signs of past landslides, but the effort will be worth it. At sunset, we will be rewarded with breathtaking views over the surrounding mountains. We will spend the night in a guesthouse at Tilicho Base Camp.

Acclimatization at Manang

After several days of ascending to higher altitudes, it’s crucial to take a break and allow our bodies to acclimatize. This rest day in Manang is the perfect opportunity for that. Located at 3,540 meters, Manang offers incredible views of the Annapurna Range and a peaceful environment for acclimatization.

During the day, we will explore the charming town of Manang, visit the local monastery, and experience the unique blend of Tibetan and Nepalese cultures. In the afternoon, we will take a short hike to Gangapurna Lake (3,800 meters). Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the lake provides a beautiful setting for photography and further helps with acclimatization.

In the evening, we will return to our teahouse in Manang for a warm meal and a restful night’s sleep, ready for the days ahead.

Highest Altitude: 3500m/4150m)
Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours

Trek from Manang to Siri Kharka (4,060m / 13,320ft)

The trek from Manang to Siri Kharka is relatively easy. We will take the upper route, which leads down to a river that we will cross. Afterward, we continue on a path through coniferous forests. After about three hours of walking, we will reach the Tibetan settlement of Khangsar. However, we will continue our journey onward to Siri Kharka.

Along the trail, we will be treated to stunning views of Gungang Himal and Mt. Chulu. At around 4:30 am, we will head to Tilicho Lake, known for its pristine turquoise waters. After visiting the lake, we will return to Tilicho Base Camp for lunch before heading to Siri Kharka, where we will stay overnight.

Trek to Khangsar and Beyond

After a hearty breakfast, we will continue our trek towards Khangsar. The trail will take us through beautiful meadows, small streams, and lush forests. Along the way, we will enjoy breathtaking views of the Annapurna Range, including Annapurna II, III, and IV peaks. The trek is relatively easy, and we will stop for short breaks to capture the scenery and take pictures.

Khangsar is a small village that blends Tibetan and Nepalese cultures. The village is surrounded by beautiful mountains and offers a peaceful, serene atmosphere. We will spend the night in a teahouse in Khangsar, where we can enjoy a warm meal and a restful night’s sleep.

Trek Distance: 12km / 7. 4miles
Highest Altitude: 4,060m / 13,320ft
Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours

Trek from Siri Kharka to Yak Kharka (4,050m)

On our eighth day, we will depart from Siri Kharka in the morning and trek towards Tilicho Base Camp. The path is relatively easy but passes through landslide-prone areas. As we trek, we will be treated to impressive rock formations and magnificent snow-capped peaks, including Tilicho Peak.

Morning Descent and Trek to Yak Kharka

We begin our day by descending to Khangsar Village via Tare Gumba (3,870m), which is well-known for its Buddhist monastery. From there, we follow the trail through the Thorong Khola Valley, passing the abandoned village of Old Khangsar before reaching Yak Kharka, where we will stay overnight.

Trek to Tilicho Base Camp

After a hearty breakfast, we continue our trek toward Tilicho Base Camp (4,200m). The trail is relatively steep and challenging, with dense forests, rocky terrain, and several streams. Along the way, we will enjoy stunning views of the Annapurna Range, including Gangapurna, Tilicho, and Khangsar peaks. The trail also crosses several suspension bridges, adding an exciting element to the journey.

As we approach Tilicho Base Camp, the scenery becomes even more breathtaking, with snow-capped peaks surrounding us on all sides. We will spend the night in a teahouse at Tilicho Base Camp, where we can enjoy a warm meal and prepare for the next day’s hike to Tilicho Lake.

Trek Distance: 8km / 4.9 miles
Highest Altitude: 4,150m / 13,583ft
Trek Duration: 5 hours

Visit to Tilicho Lake (4,920m / 16,138ft)

This is one of the most special days of the trek, as we will be visiting Tilicho Lake itself. We will start our day early in the morning from Tilicho Base Camp to avoid the afternoon winds. The path is quite steep, and after two to three hours of effort, we will reach Tilicho Lake—one of the highest lakes in the world. A well-known French expedition team referred to Tilicho Lake as “The Great Ice Lake.” The lake is surrounded by majestic peaks, including Tilicho Himal, the Annapurna Range, and Nilgiri Himal.

After enjoying the breathtaking views of the lake, we will retrace our steps back to Siri Kharka, where we will spend the night.

Ascent to Thorong Phedi (4,533m)

As we ascend, our bodies will gradually adjust to the higher altitudes. We will follow the trail along the east bank of the Jarang Khola River, bordered by steep bluffs, until we reach Thorong Phedi (which means “foot of the hill”). If we feel up to it, we may continue trekking for another hour to High Camp (4,800m).

Along the way, we might be fortunate enough to spot blue sheep or even the elusive snow leopard. This area is also home to the Lammergeyer (bearded vulture) and is believed to be inhabited by the mythical griffons—creatures with the body of a lion and the head of a bird.

Tilicho Lake Trek

Today is the most anticipated day of the trek. We will begin our hike early in the morning for the challenging and long journey to the world-famous Tilicho Lake. The trail is steep and rocky, with numerous switchbacks. However, the stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Annapurna III, Chulu East, and Chulu West, will keep us motivated throughout the journey.

Upon reaching Tilicho Lake, we will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the turquoise blue lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Tilicho Lake is the highest lake in the world, and its serene beauty draws trekkers from around the globe. We will take some time to admire the scenery, capture memorable photographs, and appreciate the natural beauty before retracing our steps back to Tilicho Base Camp.

The hike back will be just as challenging, with steep and rocky terrain. We will need to be cautious while descending. Afterward, we will stay overnight at Tilicho Base Camp.

Trek Distance: 11 km / 6.8miles
Highest Altitude: 4,920m / 16,138ft
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours

From Siri Kharka, we descend to the uninhabited Khangsar Village. Along the way, we pass Tare Gumba, a thousand-year-old monastery, before continuing our journey along a rock wall that takes us out of Khangsar. This leads us to Thorong Khola Valley and finally to Yak Kharka. From Yak Kharka, you’ll be treated to glorious views of the Annapurna mountain range. If you’re lucky, you might spot blue sheep or even a snow leopard.

As we move forward, we’ll cross a historic Mani wall just before reaching Ledar. Today is likely to be one of the hardest days on the trail, as we trek for approximately 8 to 9 hours. The higher altitude adds to the challenge, and strong winds in these upper regions can make progress even more difficult. Along the way, we’ll likely encounter sheep, yaks, and merchants transporting goods along the trails from Tibet.

Once we reach Thorong La Pass, we’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Annapurna, Gangapurna, and the stunning peak of Khatungkang (6484m). Afterward, we’ll begin our descent of around 1,600 meters, with the trail becoming more undulating and relatively easier before we arrive at Jomsom.

Trek Distance: 8.4km / 5.2miles
Highest Altitude: 4,250m/13,943ft
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours

You will trek uphill from Ledar to reach Thorong High Camp, the last settlement before Thorong La Pass. Along the way, you’ll be treated to mesmerizing views of several mountains, including Gudang, Syagang, Khatungkang, and Thorong Peak.

Today, we will enjoy a scenic drive from Jomsom to Tatopani, with splendid mountain views along the route. We will pass through several small villages before arriving in Tatopani, where we will spend the night. The therapeutic hot springs here offer the perfect opportunity to relax and soothe tired muscles.

Tomorrow, we will continue our trek toward Thorong La Pass. We will hike for approximately 4-5 hours to reach Thorong High Camp. The trail is steep and challenging, so we will need to stay cautious and take frequent breaks to rest and stay hydrated. Upon reaching Thorong High Camp, we will take time to acclimatize to the high altitude. We will also enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Gangapurna and Mt. Khatungkang, and prepare for the challenging trek ahead.

Trek Distance: 8.5km / 5.2miles
Highest Altitude: 4,925 m/16,158 ft
Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours

Today’s trek will be the most challenging part of our journey, as we will be crossing Thorong La Pass, one of the highest passes in the world. This will also be the highest point of the trek. To avoid the strong afternoon winds, we will wake up at Thorong Phedi at 3 am and push ourselves through the high altitude and icy air.

Upon reaching Thorong La Pass, the incredible scenery will make all the effort worthwhile. From here, you will have a panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks stretching toward Tibet in the north, and if you turn around, Annapurna will stand proudly behind you.

After crossing Thorong La Pass, we will descend towards Muktinath, a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists. In Tibetan, Muktinath is called Chumig Ghasa, meaning “Hundred Waters.” The site is famous for its 108 stone water sprouts, through which flows the icy cold water of the Kali Gandaki River. In addition to these water sprouts, you will also find an eternal flame at Muktinath, which has been burning for more than 2,000 years.

Our journey continues as we follow the trail, cross a suspension bridge over the Kali Gandaki River, and reach a junction where two trails meet. From there, we will ascend through terraced farms and villages, trek through a dense rhododendron forest, and finally arrive at the village of Chitre. We will then make our way to Ghorepani, where we will spend the night.

Today is undoubtedly the most challenging day of the trek. We will begin early in the morning and hike toward Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the trek. The path to the pass is steep and rocky, requiring caution as we make our way upward. As we gain altitude, we may begin to feel the effects of the high elevation, so it’s essential to stay hydrated and take breaks when needed. However, the stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri, will keep us motivated. Upon reaching Thorong La Pass, we will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks and the valleys below.

Trek Distance: 15.6km / 9.6miles
Highest Altitude: 5,416m / 17,756ft
Trek Duration: 9 hours

After a holy visit to the Muktinath Temple, we will continue our journey by local bus, heading towards Tatopani. The drive is quite rough, full of twists and turns, through a region known for having the world’s deepest gorges. Our route will take us through the bustling Jomsom Bazaar, finally arriving at Tatopani, famous for its natural hot springs. Before nightfall, it would be a great idea to relax with a bath in these hot springs.

We will wake up early—before sunrise—to enjoy the stunning views of the mountains as the sun rises. From the Poon Hill lookout, we will experience some of the finest mountain views in Nepal. The sunlight casting its various shades over the snow-capped peaks will be a memory etched in your mind forever. Afterward, we will return to Ghorepani for breakfast, then continue on to Tadapani, where we will spend the night.

After a peaceful night in Muktinath, we will begin our trek to Jomsom. Today’s trail is mostly downhill as we follow the Kali Gandaki riverbed. Along the way, we will visit the holy Muktinath Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. This temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is believed to grant liberation from the cycle of birth and death. After exploring the temple, we will descend to the village of Jharkot and continue to Kagbeni, a medieval town with narrow alleys and white-washed houses.

From Kagbeni, we will follow the Kali Gandaki River, ultimately reaching Jomsom, a windy town known for its apples and apple products.

Trek Distance: 113km / 70miles
Highest Altitude: 3,760m / 12,623ft
Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours

On our fourteenth day, we will ascend to Ghorepani, passing through the ethnic villages of Sikha and Chitre. Along the way, we will trek through lush rhododendron, birch, and magnolia forests to reach Ghorepani, which is situated atop a ridge. During the blooming season, the rhododendrons add vibrant pink and red hues to the entire forest.

In the morning, we will wake up to stunning views of Mt. Machhapuchare (Fishtail) and Annapurna South. The trail will take us through forested hills, where we will encounter the Gurung people, the dominant ethnic group in Ghandruk. You will have the opportunity to explore the village and experience their warm hospitality. From Ghandruk, we will enjoy fantastic views of the Annapurna Massif.

Today, we will take an early morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, a picturesque town located on the banks of Phewa Lake. The flight offers breathtaking views of the mountains and the landscapes below. Upon arrival in Pokhara, we will check in at our hotel and rest for a while. In the evening, we can explore the lakeside area of Pokhara, which boasts a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops. We can also take a boat ride on Phewa Lake or simply relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Trek Distance: 17km / 10.5miles
Highest Altitude: 2,860m / 9,385ft
Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours

Poon Hill is one of the most famous viewpoints in the world. Early in the morning, we will wake up in Ghorepani and climb a steep trail for about an hour to witness the breathtaking views of dawn breaking over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. From this vantage point, you will also see Mustang and Pokhara, along with more than 20 high mountains. With its stunning beauty, Poon Hill is a favorite spot for photographers, and we will certainly take the opportunity to capture some memorable photos. After spending some time at Poon Hill, we will descend to Birethanti, where we will take a bus to Pokhara via Nayapul.

Today marks the last day of trekking in the Annapurna region as we head down to Nayapul. From Nayapul, we will drive by car to Pokhara, where we will stay in a 3-star hotel for the night. Once we check in and settle into our hotel, you can explore the city or enjoy the sunset at one of the many cafes next to Phewa Tal (lake).

After breakfast, we will leave Pokhara and drive back to Kathmandu. The scenic drive will take us through lush green hills, terraced farmlands, and small villages. Upon reaching Kathmandu, we will check in at our hotel and freshen up. In the evening, we can explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, a popular tourist hub known for its lively atmosphere, shops, and restaurants.

Trek Distance: 12.5km / 7.7miles
Highest Altitude: 3,210m / 10,525ft
Trek Duration: 2 hours

On our sixteenth day, after breakfast, we will take a tourist bus from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Alternatively, you may choose to return by a 25-minute flight (not included in the package) for an additional cost. Our trek package concludes in Kathmandu, where Discovery World Trekking will host a farewell dinner later in the day.

We hope that, by completing this trek, you will have created lifelong memories.

This morning, we head back to Kathmandu by tourist bus. Along the way, we will stop for lunch and refreshments. The route will take us through villages, past raging rivers, and across terraced fields, where farmers will be busy with their work.

On the final day, as you bid farewell to the journey, we will ensure your safe transfer to the airport. Three hours prior to your flight, our staff will pick you up from your hotel and drop you off at Tribhuvan International Airport. It has been a pleasure hosting you. Many thanks for choosing us, and we wish you safe travels on your journey home.

Trek Distance: 200km/ 124miles
Highest Altitude: (820m / 2,690ft/1,350m / 4,450ft)
Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours