24/7 Customer service: +977 9813202133

I am trek logo
image

Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Trek

Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Trek is a circumnavigation around the Annapurna region to explore the dramatic landscapes, enjoy the sublime beauty, and experience the sheer wilderness. Besides the spectacular view of Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal, Chule peak, and Tukuche peak, a visit to the highest Altitude Lake, Tilicho is a major highlight of this trek. Furthermore, the attractive Buddhist monasteries and Hindu temples, mesmerizing sunrise viewpoints, relaxing hot springs, meandering rivers, and streams keep you amazed at every bend and turn of the trail.

Trip Facts

destination

Country

Nepal
icon-tripduration

Duration

20 Days
icon-difficulty

Difficulty

difficult
icon-difficulty

Activity

Trekking
icon-maxaltitude

Max. altitude

5416 m
icon-season

Best season

Jan - Jul, Sep - Dec
meal-yellow

Meals

On Demand

Overview

highlight-green Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Trek Highlights

    • Spectacular view of Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal, Chule peak, and Tukuche peak.
    • Visit the pristine lake of Tilicho at the stunning height of 4949 meters.
    • Cross the widest mountain pass in Nepal, the Thorong La Pass (5416 m.
    • Visit the revered Muktinath temple and witness pilgrims taking a bath in the 108 stone sprouts.
    • Witness hundreds of yaks grazing on the high pastureland. Relish the delightful sunrise over the Himalayas from the vantage point, Poon Hill.

Your exciting journey starts with the sightseeing of UNESCO heritage sites in Kathmandu, followed by a picturesque drive to Syange. The trek begins from Syange along the bank of the Marsayangdi River to reach Dharapani. The trail then treads up to the village of Manang via Chame and Pisang. After an acclimatization day at Manang, you walk past Siri Kharka to visit the turquoise lake Tilicho lying at the base of the Tilicho peak.

Retracing your steps to Siri Kharka, you join the trail to Thorang La pass. After crossing the widest mountain pass in Nepal, you drive to Tatopani from Muktinath to begin the second part of the trek. A gentle walk through the hills of Ghar Khola and Ghorepani takes you to Poon hill from where you can enjoy the mesmerizing sunrise over the Himalayas. You follow the descending trail to Nayapul and drive back to Kathmandu via Pokhara.

This is a challenging trek leading up to the high mountain passes. However, you will acclimatize at certain places to get comfortable with your surroundings. The climate in the high mountains cis unpredictable. Hence, the itinerary may change slightly according to the situation. Like many other trekking trails in Nepal, spring and autumn are the best seasons to go for this trek. You will require a Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card and Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit for this trek.

We are a leading trekking company serving the tourism industry of Nepal for a long time. At the Himalayan Kingdom, our experienced team will make sure that your time in Nepal is memorable. So, hurry and book your trekking trip with us for the best quality service, guidance, and facilities.

Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Trek Itinerary

Day 01 Arrival in Kathmandu

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), our representatives will welcome you and then transfer you to the hotel. After check-in, you can simply take rest or visit the neighborhood street to get a glimpse of the local shops as you observe the city life. In the evening, we’ll host a welcome dinner party for you after a short introduction session with our guides and staff.

Day 02 Kathmandu: Sightseeing and Trek Preparation

Today, you’ll spend your day sightseeing in the Kathmandu Valley. The valley is famous for the ancient cultural heritages and Newari culture and cuisines. The guided tour starts with an excursion to the UNESCO heritage site which includes

  • The Pashupatinath Temple: Located on the bank of the holy river, Bagmati, this famous Hindu temple welcomes thousands of Hindu pilgrims every year.
  • The Swayambhunath: Oldest Buddhist Chaityas in the valley located on the hills from where you can witness a panoramic view of the Kathmandu valley and its surrounding hills.
  • The Boudhanath: Lotus-shaped Buddhist Chaityas known for its architectural integrity and location. Kathmandu,
  • Bhaktapur and Patan Durbar Squares: Ancient courtyards and palaces of the then Malla Kings of Kathmandu valley famous for their structural elegance.

Besides, you can enjoy the unique Newari cuisines and other street foods while roaming around Kathmandu. In the evening, we’ll have a short orientation session to brief you about the trek and things to consider during your stay in Nepal.

Day 03 Drive from Kathmandu to Syange (1100m/3608 ft.)

Your journey starts with an eight to ten-hour drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar. You drive along the Prithvi Highway on the bank of the Trishuli and Marsayangdi Rivers. This fantastic ride rewards you with the view of picturesque landscapes, meandering rivers, terraced farms, small settlements, and some big towns along the way. After a long drive, you reach Besisahar, the final destination of your drive. Besisahar is the district of Lamjung district and a major town in this area. A further one and a half-hour drive take you to the mighty waterfall of Syange.

Day 04 Trek from Syange to Dharapani (1,960m/6,430ft)

The exciting trek begins on a leveled track along the bank of the Marsayangdi River. First, you cross a suspension bridge near a beautiful waterfall and then walk upstream along the gurgling Marsayangdi River. You will cross a couple of more bridges before reaching Jagat. From Jagat, the trail descends to the river and takes you through lush green forest and rocky uphill track. The Annapurna peaks come into sight as you reach Chamje. From Chame, you continue to climb up to reach Dharapani via Tal and Karte.

Day 05 Dharapani to Chame (2,710m/8,891ft)

After breakfast, you begin your trek along the forested hills of pine, oak, and rhododendron to reach Danaque. After a while, you cross a wooden bridge and ascend on a steep path to Timang. As you climb higher, the mountain peaks come into the picture, clearer and closer. You can enjoy the excellent view of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV. From Timang, you traverse through the flat trek up to Chame. Chame is a small town and the district headquarter of Manang district.

Day 06 Chame to Pisang (3,300m/10824ft)

Admiring the morning view of the mountains in the north, you start walking through the pine, fir, and rhododendron forest. At a point, you come across a high and curved rock cliff. After climbing this rocky cliff 1500 m high above the river, you continue through the steep-sided trail via Bhratang before the valley opens up into a wider path. As the valley widens, the magnificent view of Annapurna II and Pisang peak will reward you. Then, you cross a bridge, walk past the long Mani walls, and reach the beautiful village of Pisang.

Day 07 Pisang to Manang (3,500m/11,482ft)

After breakfast, you follow the trail to Manang via Gerung and upper Pisang. You begin your trek climbing up a sloped ridge from where you can enjoy the view of Manang valley and Tilicho peak. On your way to Manang, enjoy the exhilarating views of Annapurna, Pisang Himal, and the unique landscape of the rain shadow region. You cross a wooden bridge at the village of Mungji, and then climb up a steep path to reach Manang, a significant village in this region.

Day 08 Manang: Acclimatization day

You spend a day acclimatizing to adapt to the high altitude. Today, you will spend your day enjoying the view of the incredible landscapes, beautiful mountain vistas, and experiencing the vibrant environment of the area. You’ll also visit the Barge monastery, the largest monastery in Manang district. You can also interact with local people to peek into their lifestyle and culture.

Day 09 Manang to Siri Kharka (4060m/13,320ft)

After breakfast, you take an exit from the western gates and follow the trail down to the river. After crossing the river, you walk through the tranquil pine forest until you reach Kangsar village. As you walk past the village, you encounter a beautiful monastery on the way. Then, you ascend the hilly track to reach Siri Kharka. The uphill track surprises you with the splendor of Mt. Chulu and Mt. Gungang.

Day 10 Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp (4140m/13,583ft)

Today, you’ll have a strenuous and challenging walk to the Tilicho Base camp. However, the scenery around is so engaging that you’ll feel lost in it. You will need to cross some landslide- prone areas and a past avalanche area with meticulous attention. After six hours of trekking through the narrow paths, rocky trails, and landslide-prone areas, you reach Tilicho Base Camp in the evening.

Day 11 Visit Tilicho Lake (4,949m/16,138 ft.) then back to Siri Kharka

After breakfast, you begin your ascent along the side of the mountain toward the beautiful Tilicho Lake (4949 m). This pristine lake at the base of the snow-clad Tilicho peak is a freshwater lake, one of the highest lakes in the world. The nearby mountain peaks reflecting in the clear icy water of Tilicho makes a mesmerizing sight to remember. After enjoying this captivating beauty, you start the return trek to Siri Kharka along the familiar path.

Day 12 Siri Kharka to Yak Kharka (4040m/13,020ft)

After breakfast, you descend from Siri Kharka and encounter an old monastery called Tare Gumba on the way to Khangsar village. This thousand-year-old monastery is one of the most revered monasteries in the area. Khangsar village is a seasonal settlement that comes into life during the festivals and when the yak herders visit this place with their herds. You continue your trek and cross a bridge over Thorang Khola. After crossing the stream, the path goes up to take you to Yak Kharka.

Day 13 Yak Kharka to Thorang Phedi

Today, you’ll have a short trek to Thorang Phedi, the base of the Thorang La Pass. You begin your trek with an uphill climb and continue further to reach Ledar. The trail then treads along the bank of Jarang River to take you to Thorang Phedi, the last village before Thorong La. On the way, you can enjoy the captivating views of Mt. Gudang, Mt. Syagang, and Thorung peak.

Day 14 Thorong Phedi to Thorong La pass (5416m/17764ft) to Muktinath (3,800/12,467ft)

Today, you’ll have a pre-dawn trek from Thorong Phedi to Thorong La Pass. It is one of the highest passes in the world. The pass is adorned with colorful prayer flags and rewards you with the extraordinary views of Mt. Annapurna, Mt. Gangapurna, and many other peaks. The glaciers flowing steadily also makes a spectacular view. After enjoying the incredible view of the mountain vistas and glaciers, you follow the descending trail, which opens into lush green yak pastures. The trail finally takes you to Muktinath.

Day 15 Drive from Muktinath to Tatopani (1,200m/3937ft)

Early in the morning, you visit Muktinath, the famous Hindu as well as Buddhist temple. The water sprouts and the perpetual flame in the temple are spectacular to watch. Besides, the view of the unusual dry landscapes of Mustang and the surrounding mountains takes your breath away. After spending some time in the Muktinath area, you take a bus/jeep and drive to Tatopani. The drive can be a little bumpy but rewards you with the view of unique landscapes, vast sandy beaches, apple orchards, and stone houses. After an exciting drive along the bank of the gurgling Kaligandaki River, you reach Tatopani, a place famous hot water spring.

Day 16 Tatopani to Ghorepani

From the deep gorges of Kaligandaki, you climb up to Ghar Khola valley and walk through the terraced fields enjoying the view of mountain vistas on the northern horizon. You make your way through the rhododendron forest and walk past the villages of Sinkhe and Chitre. In the spring season, the whole forest is painted with pink and red of the rhododendron flowers. After seven to eight hours trek, you reach Ghorepani.

Day 17 Ghorepani to Poon Hill to Tadapani

Today, you will make a pre-dawn trek to Poon Hill (3210 m) to enjoy the mesmerizing view of the sunrise over the Himalayas. The delightful view of the morning sun paints the snow-clad mountain peaks in yellow makes you wonder in awe. After enjoying the sunrise and admiring the beauty of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and other mountain peaks, you trace your steps back to Ghorepani. After a hearty breakfast at Ghorepani, you climb up to a nearby ridge, and then descend through the rhododendron forest and reach Tadapani.

Day 18 Trek to Nayapul then drive to Pokhara

After breakfast, you walk through the thick rhododendron forest and reach Ghandruk, a beautiful Gurung village. The typical Gurung houses and the attractive Gurung custom is a surprise gift to your eyes. Traversing through the terraced fields and enjoying the views of mountains, you continue your trek to Nayapul. From Nayapul, you drive to Pokhara. In the evening, you can roam around the beautiful streets of Pokhara, or you can enjoy boating in Fewa Lake.

Day 19 Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

After breakfast, you’ll drive along the Prithvi Highway from Pokhara to Kathmandu. The smooth drive along the blacktopped road offers you the side views of small towns, villages, terraced farms, and rivers. After six hours, you reach Kathmandu. In the evening, we will host a farewell dinner party for the successful completion of the trek.

Day 20 Final departure

After breakfast, our staff will drive you to Tribhuvan International Airport. We will drop you at the airport two hours before your flight. We wish you a happy and safe journey.

Trekking Gear & Equipment

General

  • Meals (lunch and dinner) in Kathmandu
  • fare and airport departure tax
  • Any beverages including bottled and boiled water
  • ravel insurance along with high-altitude emergency evacuation coverage
  • Tips to trekking staff and driver (Tipping is expected; it is recommended to spend 10% of your trip price for tipping)
  • Nepal Entry Visa (Visa can be acquired easily after your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu with a fee of USD 50 for 30 days visa and USD 125 for 90 days visa)
  • Personal Trekking gear and equipment
  • Any expenses other than the Price Include section

Upper Body

  • Meals (lunch and dinner) in Kathmandu
  • fare and airport departure tax
  • Any beverages including bottled and boiled water
  • ravel insurance along with high-altitude emergency evacuation coverage

Departures & Availability

Join the departures

Saturday, 3rd SEP 2022 To Thursday, 8th SEP
USD 1,400
Discount: USD 1,400
14 Space available
Book Now
Saturday, 3rd SEP 2022 To Thursday, 8th SEP
USD 1,400
Discount: USD 1,400
Occupied
Book Now
Saturday, 3rd SEP 2022 To Thursday, 8th SEP
USD 1,400
Discount: USD 1,400
Occupied
Book Now

All Inclusive Price

USD 1400 / Person

Book Now inquire now
  • Client-friendly trips
  • Eco-friendly, sustainable trekking
  • Experienced guides and porters
  • Safety and comfort a priority

All Inclusive Price

USD 1,450 Per Person

Book Now Make an Enquiry