Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho lake Itinerary
Duration
14
Group Size
Max Elevation
5,146m
Difficulty
Medium
Start & End Point
Jagat-Tatopani
Accomodation
Tea houses and lodge
Permit
Discount
Best Time
Mar-Arp-May, Sep-Oct-Nov
Highlights
- Thorong La Pass: The trek's highest point at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet), offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
- Annapurna I: Marvel at the majestic sight of Annapurna I, the 10th highest mountain in the world, towering at 8,091 meters (26,545 feet).
- Cultural Diversity: Encounter diverse ethnic communities along the trail, each with its unique traditions and hospitality, including Gurungs, Magars, Thakalis, and Tibetans.
- Kali Gandaki Gorge: Traverse through the dramatic landscapes of the Kali Gandaki Gorge, known as the world's deepest gorge, providing awe-inspiring vistas.
- Natural Hot Springs: Relax and unwind in the natural hot springs of Tatopani, offering a soothing retreat for tired muscles amidst the mountainous terrain.
The Annapurna with Tilicho Lake trek is a mesmerizing adventure that takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of the Annapurna region in Nepal. It combines the classic Annapurna Circuit with a side trip to Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world. This trek offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and thrilling hiking experiences.
Starting from the lush foothills, the trek gradually ascends through terraced fields, charming villages, and dense forests. As you make your way higher, you'll be rewarded with spectacular views of towering peaks, including Annapurna I (8,091m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m), and Manaslu (8,163m), among others. The diverse flora and fauna of the region add to the enchanting atmosphere.
The highlight of the trek is the visit to Tilicho Lake, situated at an altitude of 4,919 meters. This glacial lake is nestled amidst rugged mountains and boasts a serene, turquoise-blue color that is simply awe-inspiring. The trail to Tilicho Lake is challenging but immensely rewarding, offering a sense of accomplishment upon reaching its shores.
Overview
Embark on the fantastic Annapurna Circuit Trek with our hand-picked itinerary that takes you around the entire Annapurna massif reaching the zenith at Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,769ft). We will walk on the Annapurna circuit trek, regardless the difficulty level, through the world’s deepest Kali Gandaki gorge with Mt. Annapurna I rising to 8,091m (26,545ft) to the east and Mt. Dhaulagiri hovering at 8,167m (26,795ft) to the west!
We savor the fabulous mountain views from various destinations during our Annapurna circuit trek in the best season during spring and autumn and discover the diverse region. Furthermore, Annapurna Circuit Trek also takes us to Manang, Jomsom and the Muktinath regions that allow you to get acquainted with the diverse Nepalese landscape.
Embark on the fantastic Annapurna Circuit Trek with our hand-picked itinerary that takes you around the entire Annapurna massif reaching the zenith at Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,769ft). We will walk on the Annapurna circuit trek, regardless the difficulty level, through the world’s deepest Kali Gandaki gorge with Mt. Annapurna I rising to 8,091m (26,545ft) to the east and Mt. Dhaulagiri hovering at 8,167m (26,795ft) to the west!
We savor the fabulous mountain views from various destinations during our Annapurna circuit trek in the best season during spring and autumn and discover the diverse region. Furthermore, Annapurna Circuit Trek also takes us to Manang, Jomsom and the Muktinath regions that allow you to get acquainted with the diverse Nepalese landscape.
Typical Itinerary
The first day driving from Kathmandu to Jagat, which takes approximately 8-9 hours. Depart from Kathmandu in the morning and follow the Prithvi Highway. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes of Nepal, passing through lush valleys, terraced fields, and charming villages along the way. Arrive in Besisahar and drive towards Jagat, ready to explore the beautiful Annapurna region and unwind after the long drive. Overnight in Jagat.
Continue your trek from Jagat to Dharapani, as the trail gradually gains altitude. Pass through dense forests of rhododendron and pine, catch glimpses of towering peaks, and experience the warm hospitality of the local communities along the way.Overnight in Dharapani.
Embark on a scenic hike from Dharapani to Chame, a lively town nestled amidst towering mountains. Witness breathtaking views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal as you traverse through a mix of lush forests and terraced fields, arriving at the gateway to the Manang Valley.Overnight in Chame.
On the fourth day of your Annapurna Circuit trek, you will trek from Chame to Upper Pisang. Leaving the charming town of Chame behind, you will traverse through dense forests, cross suspension bridges over the Marsyangdi River, and pass by picturesque villages. As you ascend, be prepared to witness awe-inspiring views of snow-capped peaks, including the magnificent Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal. Overnight in Upper pisang
On day five, you will embark on a scenic trek from Upper Pisang to Manang, situated at an elevation of 3,540 meters. The day's journey will offer breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Gangapurna mountain ranges. You'll pass through charming villages, lush forests, and cross the Marsyangdi River, immersing yourselves in the natural beauty of the region as you make your way towards Manang.Overnight in Manan
As you ascend to the higher altitude, it is very important to have a day to acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness. On that day, you will visit the local village, chortens and gumba. Overnight in Manang.
From Manang, the trail goes towards Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world. The trail goes through Khangsar Village, where you can see beautiful views of Annapurna and Tilicho Peak. The trek to Tilicho Base Camp is challenging, with steep ascents and descents, but the views are absolutely stunning. Once you reach Tilicho Base Camp, you can enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and prepare for your trek to Tilicho Lake. Overnight in Tilicho Base Camp
After breakfast, you will start your trek towards Tilicho lake and enjoy the picturesque of the lake which is one of the highest lake in the world. You then start your decend to Sri Kharka. Overnight in Sri Kharka.
You trek for atleast four to five hours from Manang to Yak Kharka. Descending in the Thorong Khola Valley, cross the river then hike up to a plateau. On the way, the Annapurna range is stunning against the blue sky. You may also encounter the beautiful Blue sheep however they are not literally blue in colour. Overnight at Yak Kharka.
Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4420m.) takes about approximately four hours. Leaving Yak Kharka, you climb gradually to a ridge before descending to the headwaters of the Marshyangdi and crossing via a covered wooden bridge. After a short ascent up the mountain path on the right bank, you follow a narrow trail across an unstable spree slope and then descend to Thorong Phedi. Overnight in Thorong Phedi.
Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath (3850m.) via Thorong La (5416m.) Pass and it takes about eight to nine hours. You start early for your crossing of Thorong La [5416m]. The trail becomes steep immediately on leaving the camp but as this trail has been used by local people for hundreds of years the path is well defined. The descent to Muktinath is a knee pounding 1600m, but it’s compensated for with excellent views of Dhaulagiri. Eventually the moraines give way to grassy slopes before a pleasant walk along the Jhong Khola valley to Muktinath and its shrines and temple. Overnight in Muktinath.
While returning from your trip after your breakfast at Muktinath, take a slightly different route via Lubra village to Jomsom. Lubra village is a hidden village located in Panda Khola gorge in between Kagbeni and Jomsom. The trail here is free from crowds as Lubra is rarely visited by the tourists doing the Mustang and Annapurna Circuit trail. You can visit the ancient Bon Po monastery here which can be seen in very limited places of Upper Mustang and Dolpo region. Bon Po is believed to be older than Buddhism and is not represented by many monasteries these days. After spending some quality time in Lubra village, continue your trail to Jomsom. Overnight in Jomsom.
After completing the majestic trek of Annapurna circuit, you drive four to five hours from Jomsom to Tatopani. Tatopani is famous for its natural hot water spring. You enjoy rest of your day at hot water pool and relax. Overnight in Tatopani.
Today you will finally bid farewell to the spectacular Annapurna region and the beautiful city of Pokhara. Upon arrival, you transfer to your designated hotel and rest of the afternoon is free to rest and relax or pursue your own interest.
Overnight in Pokhara.
Map
