Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake
Trip overview
Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake, in full
Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake itinerary, cost, map, permits, altitude, difficulty, best time, route details and complete trekking guide with Real Himalaya.
Your trip at a glance
- Destination
- Annapurna Region
- Duration
- 16 days
- Difficulty
- Moderate to Challenging
- Max elevation
- 5416 m
- Group size
- 8-12 people
- Activities
- Trekking
Day by day
Detailed itinerary
- 1
Arrival in Kathmandu at Tribhuvan International Airport
Namaste and welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport , you are greeted by our team and transferred to your hotel in Thamel, the vibrant heart of Kathmandu. The lively streets filled with trekking shops, colorful prayer flags, ancient temples, and the distant silhouette of snow-capped peaks prepare you for the adventure ahead. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner featuring authentic Nepali cuisine with a cultural show, followed by a comprehensive briefing about your Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake journey.
- 2
Drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani
An early morning departure takes you on a scenic drive through the middle hills of Nepal. The road winds past terraced rice fields, traditional villages, and lush subtropical forests as you follow the Marsyangdi River valley deeper into the Annapurna region. The landscape becomes increasingly dramatic as the valley narrows and the first glimpses of snow-capped peaks appear. You pass through the town of Besisahar before continuing to Dharapani (1,860 m) , a small village at the entrance to Manang District where the trekking begins. The long drive allows you to acclimatize gradually while witnessing Nepal's stunning rural scenery.
- 3
Trek from Dharapani to Chame
Your trekking adventure begins as you follow the trail along the Marsyangdi River through pine and rhododendron forests. The path passes through several villages, including Bagarchhap , where the architecture begins to show Tibetan influence with flat-roofed stone houses and Buddhist monasteries. Waterfalls cascade down the valley walls, and the first views of the Annapurna peaks and Lamjung Himal appear through the trees. By afternoon, you arrive at Chame (2,670 m) , the district headquarters of Manang. This bustling village offers hot springs, shops, and stunning views of Annapurna II rising dramatically at the head of the valley.
- 4
Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang
Today's trek takes you deeper into the dramatic Manang Valley. The trail passes through dense forest with glimpses of the soaring rock walls of the Paungda Danda , a sheer cliff face rising over 1,500 meters from the valley floor. You cross the Marsyangdi on a suspension bridge and continue through apple orchards and small settlements. The landscape opens up as you enter the broader upper valley, with Annapurna II (7,937 m) dominating the view ahead. You climb steeply to Upper Pisang (3,300 m) , a traditional village clinging to the hillside with an ancient gompa, stone houses, and spectacular sunrise views of the Annapurna range.
- 5
Trek from Upper Pisang to Ngawal
An exhilarating day on the high route offers some of the finest views on the entire circuit. The trail climbs above Upper Pisang through juniper and pine forests, with ever-expanding panoramas of Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, Pisang Peak, and Chulu . The path traverses high above the valley floor, passing ancient chortens, mani walls carved with sacred mantras, and small shrines. You arrive at Ngawal (3,660 m) , a peaceful village far from the main trail. This hidden gem offers spectacular views, a beautiful monastery, traditional stone houses, and an authentic glimpse into Himalayan life.
- 6
Trek from Ngawal to Manang via Bhraka
A scenic day takes you through the cultural treasures of the upper Manang valley. The trail descends gently through fields of barley and buckwheat to Bhraka (3,360 m) , home to an important monastery perched dramatically on a cliff above the village. Continuing along the broad valley floor with views of the glacial lake below Gangapurna, you arrive at Manang (3,540 m) , the largest village in the region. This fascinating settlement has been a trading center for centuries, with stone houses, Buddhist gompas, prayer wheels, and friendly local people. Spend the afternoon exploring and preparing for the challenges ahead.
- 7
Acclimatization Day at Manang Village
A crucial rest and acclimatization day prepares your body for the high altitudes ahead. Manang is a serene place to soak in the panoramic views of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and the Great Barrier . Options for the day include hiking to the Gangapurna Glacier and Lake , visiting the Praken Gompa perched on the hillside above the village, exploring the village museum, or simply relaxing with spectacular mountain views. The Himalayan Rescue Association post offers a helpful altitude sickness lecture in the afternoon. This rest day is essential before the demanding Tilicho Lake excursion.
- 8
Trek from Manang to Shree Kharka
Today you begin the detour toward Tilicho Lake, branching off from the main circuit. The trail heads northwest from Manang, climbing gradually through sparse vegetation and yak pastures. You pass through the small settlement of Khangsar , a traditional village beneath the imposing walls of the Great Barrier. The landscape becomes increasingly wild and remote as you gain altitude. Views of Tilicho Peak (7,134 m), Gangapurna, and the Annapurna range accompany you throughout the day. You arrive at Shree Kharka (4,080 m) , a small collection of stone huts where herders bring their yaks in summer. The night is cold, but the star-filled sky is spectacular.
- 9
Trek from Shree Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp
The trail to Tilicho Base Camp traverses some of the most dramatic and challenging terrain on the entire trek. The path is carved into steep, unstable hillsides with sections prone to rockfall and landslides. Caution and concentration are essential as you navigate narrow ledges above deep drops. Despite the challenges, the scenery is spectacular, with views of Tilicho Peak, Khangsar Kang, and the vast Manang valley below. The trail undulates through rocky terrain before arriving at Tilicho Base Camp (4,150 m) , a simple lodge nestled in a dramatic amphitheater beneath the lake. Rest and prepare for tomorrow's early start.
- 10
Trek to Tilicho Lake and Return to Tilicho Base Camp
The day you have been waiting for! An early start (typically 4-5 AM) takes you up the steep trail toward one of the world's highest lakes. The path climbs relentlessly through rocky moraine and glacial debris, with the altitude making every step demanding. As you crest the final ridge, the breathtaking sight of Tilicho Lake (4,920 m) unfolds before you. This sacred turquoise gem lies in a dramatic glacial cirque, surrounded by the towering walls of Tilicho Peak (7,134 m) and the Great Barrier. The crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding peaks, creating a scene of otherworldly beauty. Spend time at the lake, absorbing the spiritual energy and pristine wilderness, before descending back t
- 11
Trek from Tilicho Base Camp to Thorong Phedi
A long and challenging day rejoins the main Annapurna Circuit. The trail descends from Tilicho Base Camp, retracing the dramatic hillside path before branching toward Thorong La. You pass through the settlements of Shree Kharka and Yak Kharka , climbing through increasingly barren terrain toward the base of the great pass. The landscape becomes stark and beautiful, with rocky moraines and glacial debris scattered across the high-altitude desert. By late afternoon, you arrive at Thorong Phedi (4,525 m) , meaning 'foot of the hill.' This remote base camp sits in a dramatic amphitheater beneath the steep walls leading to Thorong La. Rest, hydrate, and prepare for tomorrow's challenging pass cro
- 12
Cross Thorong La Pass and Trek to Muktinath
The most challenging and rewarding day of the trek! An early start (typically 4-5 AM) ensures you cross the pass before afternoon clouds and winds arrive. The trail climbs steeply through switchbacks over rocky terrain, with the altitude making every step demanding. As you climb higher, the views expand dramatically. Finally, you reach the prayer-flag-adorned summit of Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) , one of the highest trekking passes in the world. Panoramic views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri ranges stretch across the horizon. The descent to Muktinath (3,760 m) is steep and long, dropping nearly 1,700 meters through a dramatically different landscape. At Muktinath, celebrate your ac
- 13
Explore Muktinath and Drive to Jomsom
Take the morning to explore the sacred Muktinath Temple complex , one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in the Himalayas. Revered by both Hindus and Buddhists, the temple features 108 water spouts (representing the sacred number in Hinduism), eternal flames burning from natural gas seeping through the ground, and ancient temples dedicated to Vishnu and Buddhist deities. The spiritual energy is profound. After your visit, a short drive takes you through the dramatic Mustang landscape to Jomsom (2,720 m) , the district headquarters of Mustang. This windswept town sits beside the Kali Gandaki River with views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri.
- 14
Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara
An early morning flight from Jomsom offers spectacular aerial views of Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Nilgiri, Annapurna South , and the dramatic Kali Gandaki gorge. The 30-minute flight is one of the most scenic in Nepal, soaring between towering Himalayan peaks. Alternatively, a jeep drive through the gorge offers a different but equally dramatic perspective. Upon arrival in Pokhara , Nepal's adventure capital, transfer to your lakeside hotel. The tranquil waters of Phewa Lake reflect the Annapurna range, colorful boats drift on the surface, and the vibrant Lakeside area awaits. Spend the afternoon relaxing, shopping, or simply enjoying the mountain views.
- 15
Drive or Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Choose between a scenic 7-9 hour drive along the Prithvi Highway following the Trisuli River or a quick 25-minute flight with spectacular mountain views back to Kathmandu. The morning is free to explore Pokhara, perhaps taking a boat ride on Phewa Lake, visiting the World Peace Pagoda, or browsing the shops of Lakeside. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel. The afternoon is free for last-minute shopping in Thamel or visiting cultural sites. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner celebrating your incredible achievement of completing the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake.
- 16
Final Departure from Kathmandu
After breakfast, you are transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. As your plane soars over the Himalayas, you carry with you the unforgettable memories of the sacred turquoise waters of Tilicho Lake, crossing Thorong La Pass, the holy temples of Muktinath, the traditional villages of Manang, the warm hospitality of the Himalayan people, and the ever-present majesty of the Annapurna range . Thank you for choosing Real Himalaya. For any queries, contact us at +977 985-1026840 www.realhimalaya.com Speak to an Expert Gokul Thapa +977-9851026840 View Dossier Online
