Annapurna Circuit / Tilicho Lake Trek
Days
17
Difficulty
Challenging
Altitude
5416m
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a classic and one of the most popular trekking routes in Nepal, offering an extraordinary adventure amidst some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes. This trek takes you on a scenic journey through diverse ecosystems, vibrant cultures, and high-altitude terrains, providing a lifetime experience for trekkers.
Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek:
The trek can be undertaken in spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is favorable for trekking with clear skies, moderate temperatures, and stunning mountain views. It is advisable to avoid the monsoon season (June to August) due to possible landslides and muddy trails.
Trek Overview:
- Starting Point: Chame, a eight-hour drive from Kathmandu.
- Route: The trek follows the Marsyangdi River from Besisahar and passes through the villages of Chame, Pisang and Manang. It then crosses Thorong La Pass to reach the Mustang region and Muktinath.
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging (due to high altitudes, especially when crossing Thorong La Pass).
Trek Highlights: - Breathtaking Mountain Views: Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, Tilicho Peak, Throng Peak, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and other Himalayan peaks.
- High-altitude Adventure: Crossing Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters.
- Cultural Experience: Visiting monasteries, local villages, and experiencing the lifestyles of the Gurung, Magar, and Thakali people.
- Sacred Sites: Visiting Muktinath and other religious sites.
- Nature & Wildlife: Beautiful landscapes, including rivers, forests, and wildlife such as Himalayan tahr, snow leopards, and various bird species.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a rewarding challenge, making it a top choice for trekkers looking to explore the heart of Nepal’s Himalayas.
Itirenary
• Arrival at Kathmandu airport.
• Transfer to hotel and rest.
• Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.
Explore cultural landmarks in Kathmandu Valley: Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Durbar Square.
• Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.
- Take a scenic private jeep drive to Chame (approx. 8 hours).
- The journey takes you through stunning views of the Himalayas, passing through villages and rivers.
- Overnight at teahouse in Chame.
• Begin the trek through Bamboo and Pisang village, with amazing views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak.
• Trekking Time: 5 – 6 hours.
• Overnight at teahouse in Upper Pisang.
• Continue trekking through a variety of landscapes, including pine forests, rocky trails, and alpine meadows.
• Trekking Time: 5 – 6 hours.
• Overnight at teahouse in Nawal.
• Trek through picturesque villages, passing lush greenery and offering stunning views of the Annapurna range.
• Trekking Time: 5 – 6 hours.
• Overnight at teahouse in Manang.
Rest day to acclimatize to the high altitude.
• Option to explore Manang village, visit the Buddhist Monastery or Gangapurna lake and enjoy the panoramic views of Gangapurna, Annapurna, and Tilicho Peak.
• Overnight in Manang
• Continue trekking to Khangsar, a picturesque village located at the foot of the Thorong La Pass.
• Trekking Time: 5 – 6 hours.
• Overnight at teahouse in Khangsar.
• Trek to the Tilicho Lake Base Camp, a great place for acclimatization.
• Trekking Time: 5 – 6 hours.
• Overnight at teahouse in Base Camp.
• Early morning trek to the beautiful Tilicho Lake at 4,949 meters, one of the highest lakes in the world.
• Return back to the Base Camp or Khangsar.
• Trekking Time: 6 – 7 hours (round trip).
• Overnight at teahouse.
• Continue your journey towards Yak Kharka, passing through alpine landscapes.
• Trekking Time: 4 – 5 hours.
• Overnight at teahouse in Yak Kharka.
• The trek continues as you get closer to Thorong La Pass, a major challenge of the trek.
• Trekking Time: 4 – 5 hours.
• Overnight at teahouse in Thorong Phedi.
• Early morning start for the challenging Thorong La Pass.
• After reaching the pass, descend to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site.
• Trekking Time: 8 – 10 hours.
• Overnight at teahouse in Muktinath.
• Drive from Muktinath to Pokhara via Marpha, Kalopani, Hotspring.
• Trekking Time: 6 hours.
• Overnight at Pokhara
• Explore the beauty of Pokhara: visit Fewa Lake, Devi’s Fall, Gupteshwor Cave, and World Peace Pagoda.
• Overnight in Pokhara.
- • Drive or fly back to Kathmandu (Bus/Flight).
- • Overnight in Kathmandu.
• Free day for last-minute shopping or relaxing.
• Transfer to the airport for your final departure.
Scenic Beauty: The trek offers stunning views of the Annapurna I (8,091 meters), Dhaulagiri I (8,167 meters), and the Manaslu range. You’ll pass through lush subtropical forests, alpine meadows, and stark high-altitude deserts, all while being surrounded by towering peaks.
Cultural Experience: The route introduces you to the rich cultures of the Gurung, Magar, Manangi, and Thakali peoples. The local villages offer a glimpse into traditional Himalayan life, with monasteries, temples, and ancient caves along the way. One of the highlights is the sacred Muktinath Temple, a major pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists.
Diverse Landscapes: The trek takes you from subtropical lowland villages to the high mountain regions. You’ll cross the Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters), one of the highest trekking passes in the world, with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks surrounding you. The trek also takes you through the beautiful Manang Valley and Mustang, two famous Himalayan valleys.
Tilicho Lake: A detour to Tilicho Lake (4,949 meters) is an optional but highly recommended side trip, as it’s considered the highest lake in the world. The trek to this lake offers mesmerizing views of the surrounding mountains.
The Kali Gandaki Gorge: The trek goes through the world’s deepest gorge, formed by the Kali Gandaki River, which lies between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The deep valleys and river systems add a distinct character to the route.
Adventure and Challenge: Crossing Thorong La Pass can be a challenge due to the high altitude and unpredictable weather, but with proper acclimatization and attention to health, it’s achievable for most trekkers. The descent after the pass leads to Muktinath, from where you can continue trekking or take a flight or drive to Pokhara.
Walking Equipments
Well-fitting boots (be sure beforehand that they walk well and are really comfortable) and good socks
Long/ short trousers/skirt
Shirt/t-shirt
Light jumper
Underwear
Sunglasses (UV Protection)
Hat and gloves
Waterproof jacket/poncho
Water bottle
Walking stick
Small rucksack (day pack)
Down jacket
Windproof trousers and gaiters
Other Equipments
Backpack (large)
Personal medication/first aid kit
Personal toiletries
Sunscreen/ lip balm
Penknife
Torch/flashlight with spare batteries
Camera/ film/ memory cards/batteries
Iodine tablets/solution
Sanitary items for women
Flip-flops/thongs
Binoculars
Entertainment (books, music, game sets, etc.)
Airport Assistance: Our office representative will assist you upon arrival at Kathmandu International Airport.
Transfers: All arrival and departure transfers as per the itinerary by Private vehicles and Flight (PKR-KTM).
Accommodation in Kathmandu & Pokhara: Comfortable bed & breakfast accommodation at 3-star hotels.
Accommodation during Trek: Local guest house accommodation on a twin-sharing basis during the trek (includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
Conservation Area Entry Fee: Necessary fees for the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP), Manaslu Conservation Area and Trekking Permits.
Trekking Team: English-speaking trekking guide and porters for carrying luggage.
Sightseeing in Kathmandu: Guided tours with an English-speaking guide, including entrance fees to all listed sites in Kathmandu.
Taxes: All applicable taxes are included in the package.
International Airfare: Costs for international flights to/from Nepal.
Nepal Visa Fee: Charges for acquiring a visa to enter Nepal.
Meals (Lunch & Dinner): Meals outside the trekking areas (i.e., in Kathmandu & Pokhara).
Additional Sightseeing: Any extra sightseeing not mentioned in the itinerary.
Personal Expenses: Costs for things like shopping, souvenirs, or any personal items.
Transportation outside Itinerary: Any costs related to transport not part of the scheduled program.
Insurance: Travel, health, or trekking-related insurance.
Personal Nature Expenses: Any additional personal costs, such as tips, beverages, etc.
