Trip facts
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Duration
15 Days
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Trip Level
Challenging
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.
Itinerary
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Day 01DRIVE TO SYANGE (1,100m / 8-9 HRS)
Begin your Annapurna Circuit adventure with a picturesque drive to Syange. Depart from your starting point and venture through diverse terrain, passing through charming villages and alongside the Marsyangdi River. As you navigate the winding roads, soak in the awe-inspiring views of towering mountains and verdant valleys. Arrive in Syange, a quaint village nestled amidst nature’s splendor, setting the tone for the incredible journey ahead.
Overnight in Syange.
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Day 02TREK FROM SYANGE TO TAL (1,700M / 5-6 HRS)
Embark on a thrilling trek from Syange to Tal, immersing yourself in the natural wonders of the Annapurna Circuit. The trail leads you through lush forests, across suspension bridges that span the Marsyangdi River, and past traditional villages. As you ascend, the landscape transforms, offering breathtaking glimpses of the surrounding mountains.
Overnight in Tal.
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Day 03TREK FROM TAL TO DANAKYU (2,190M / 5-6 HRS)
Lace up your hiking boots and set off on a captivating trek from Tal to Danakyu, continuing your Annapurna Circuit journey. The trail wanders through diverse landscapes, taking you through quaint settlements and terraced fields. As you ascend, the panoramic vistas of the Himalayas unfurl before you, providing awe-inspiring moments. Reach Danakyu, a charming village with a blend of traditional architecture and stunning mountain views. Take in the serene surroundings, embracing the unique charm of this Himalayan gem.
Overnight in Danakyu.
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Day 04TREK FROM DANAKYU TO CHAME (2,670M / 5-6 HRS)
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.
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Day 05TREK FROM CHAME TO UPPER PISANG (3,300M / 5-6 HRS)
On the fifth 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.
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Day 06TREK FROM UPPER PISANG TO MANANG (3540M / 4-5 HRS)
On day six, we 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. We’ll pass through charming villages, lush forests, and cross the Marsyangdi River, immersing ourselves in the natural beauty of the region as we make our way towards Manang.
Overnight in Manang.
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Day 07ACCLIMATIZATION IN MANANG
As we 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.
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Day 08TREK FROM MANANG TO TILICHO BASE CAMP (4,150M/ 5-6 HRS)
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 Basecamp.
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Day 09TREK FROM TILICHO B.C. TO TILICHO LAKE AND BACK TO SRI KHARKA (4,080M/ 6-7 HRS)
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.
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Day 10TREK FROM SRI KHARKA TO YAK KHARKA (4,060M / 5-6 HRS)
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.
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Day 11TREK FROM YAK KHARKA TO THORONG PHEDI (4420M / 4-5 HRS)
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.
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Day 12TREK FROM THORONG PHEDI TO MUKTINATH (3850M.) VIA THORONG LA (5416M / 8-9 HRS)
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.
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Day 13TREK FROM MUKTINATH TO JOMSOM (2,720M.) VIA LUBRA VALLEY (5-6 HRS)
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.
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Day 14DRIVE FROM JOMSOM TO TATOPANI (1,190M / 4-5 HRS)
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.
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Day 15DRIVE TO POKHARA (820M / 4-5 HRS)
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.
Are you not satisfied with the itinerary?
You can make your own customized itinerary which suits your need.
Cost Details
Included
- Airport pick-up and drop in a private vehicle.
- All ground transport in sharing jeep or bus. (Private transport can be arranged upon request at additional cost)
- One night accommodation in 3-4* category hotel after the trek in Pokhara.
- One-day sightseeing with entrance fee accompanied by a local tour guide as per itinerary. (Optional at additional cost)
- Accommodation in trekkers lodge/tea house during the trek.
- Only breakfast during the stay in Pokhara and three vegetarian meals along with one coffee/tea during the trek. (Non-veg meals can be arranged at additional cost)
- English speaking local trekking guide along with porter (one porter for every two members) during the trek.
- All necessary paper work and permits.
- All Government taxes and service charges.
Excluded
- Nepal entry visa.
- International flight to and from Kathmandu.
- Lunch and dinner or any other meal not specified above.
- Personal Travel Medical Insurance.
- Personal expenses such as bar, beverages, tips and gratuities, laundry, telephone, battery recharge, etc.
- Personal belongings (shoes/clothes) and trekking equipment’s.
- Hot showers during the trek.
- Any extra cost incurred due to changing the itinerary, like early return from the trek.
- All other personal expenses not listed in the included section
Trip Enquiries
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Is the Annapurna Circuit trek appropriate for me?
In general, the Annapurna Circuit trek duration ranges between 11 and 21 days depending on the route you prefer, with a daily walk of five to six hours. The highest point of the trek is Thorong La Pass at 5,416m (17,769ft). If you travel with a local reputed travel company, it means that your local guides and porters are exceptionally well-versed with the local etiquettes. Everything will be organized including food, lodging, and permits while you simply follow your guide. The porters will carry your heavier luggage while you need to carry your own backpack with essentials. The only challenging issue during the trek is the altitude at the highest point. So, walking with a slow pace and getting ample time to acclimatize is the key to the success of your trip.