Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Summit Nepal Adventure will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, you’ll have time to rest or explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, the tourist hub of Kathmandu. In the evening, a pre-trek briefing will be held to go over the trek details, safety precautions, and last-minute preparations.
An early morning drive takes us westward along the Prithvi Highway, passing lush hills, river valleys, and traditional villages. After reaching Besisahar, we change vehicles for a rugged jeep ride through scenic off-road trails to reach Dharapani, a small settlement in the Manang District. This marks the official start of the Annapurna Circuit, and you’ll spend the night here in preparation for the trek ahead.
Today’s journey follows the Marsyangdi River as we ascend through pine and fir forests, past terraced fields and waterfalls. As we reach higher elevations, the landscape becomes more alpine, and the air noticeably cooler. Chame, the district headquarters of Manang, welcomes us with dramatic views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II. The town also has hot springs nearby for a relaxing soak.
The trail climbs gradually through dense forest and narrow river gorges, with frequent views of towering peaks. We pass through villages like Bhartang and Dhukur Pokhari before reaching Upper Pisang, a traditional Tibetan-style village nestled beneath Pisang Peak. From here, enjoy stunning vistas of Annapurna II and IV, and witness the cultural shift as we enter more Buddhist-influenced regions.
Taking the high route via Ghyaru and Ngawal, we are rewarded with panoramic views of the Annapurna range. This trail also offers insight into the region's Buddhist culture, with monasteries and prayer wheels along the way. After a scenic and culturally rich day, we arrive at Manang, a picturesque village surrounded by majestic mountains and one of the key acclimatization stops on the circuit.
To adapt to the altitude, we spend a rest day in Manang. You can explore the village, visit the Himalayan Rescue Association for altitude education, or take short hikes to nearby spots such as Gangapurna Lake or the viewpoint above Braga Monastery. This day is crucial for a successful and safe ascent to higher elevations in the coming days.
Leaving the main Annapurna Circuit trail, we branch off towards Tilicho Lake. The path climbs steadily through alpine landscapes, sparse vegetation, and occasional landslide-prone sections. We reach Siri Kharka, a small settlement with a few tea houses, offering stunning views of the Annapurna and Gangapurna ranges.
Today’s trek is short but challenging, traversing narrow trails above steep slopes. The route to Tilicho Base Camp rewards you with dramatic scenery of rocky cliffs and snow-covered peaks. After a few hours of careful trekking, we reach Base Camp, nestled in a sheltered valley. The rest of the day is for rest and preparation for the high-altitude lake visit tomorrow.
We start early for the climb to Tilicho Lake, one of the world’s highest alpine lakes. The trail is steep and strenuous, but the reward is breathtaking—crystal-clear waters surrounded by glaciers and towering peaks. After soaking in the scenery and taking photos, we descend carefully back to Siri Kharka for the night.
Retracing our steps, we rejoin the main Annapurna Circuit trail and head towards Yak Kharka. The trail undulates through open alpine meadows and occasional yak pastures. The landscape is more barren now, but strikingly beautiful. Yak Kharka is a peaceful stop with a few lodges, ideal for resting before the final push toward Thorong La.
Today’s trek is short but involves significant altitude gain, so we proceed slowly to allow our bodies to adjust. The trail crosses the Jarsang Khola and ascends to Thorang Phedi, the base camp for the Thorong La crossing. Some trekkers may opt to hike a bit higher to High Camp for better acclimatization. We rest early tonight in preparation for the early start tomorrow.
This is the most demanding but exhilarating day of the trek. A pre-dawn start helps us avoid strong winds at the pass. The climb to Thorong La (5416m), the highest point of the trek, is challenging but the views from the top are unforgettable. After celebrating the achievement, we descend steeply to the sacred town of Muktinath, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.
The landscape changes dramatically today as we descend into the arid Mustang region. The trail follows a wide, dusty path through traditional villages like Kagbeni, with the Kali Gandaki River cutting through deep gorges. Eventually, we reach Jomsom, a windy town known for its apple orchards and local culture. Here, we celebrate the end of our trekking adventure.
In the morning, we take a scenic flight over the mountains from Jomsom to Pokhara, a relaxing lakeside city. After arrival, you can enjoy a peaceful afternoon by Phewa Lake or explore local cafés and shops. This is a great time to unwind after the long trek.
We drive back to Kathmandu through beautiful countryside, passing terraced fields and rural settlements. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. In the evening, Summit Nepal Adventure hosts a farewell dinner where you can reflect on your journey and celebrate with your trekking team.
After breakfast, a representative from Summit Nepal Adventure will transfer you to the airport for your departure flight. As you leave Nepal, you take with you unforgettable memories of majestic mountains, cultural experiences, and personal achievement.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake is a spectacular trekking adventure through the heart of Nepal’s Annapurna region. This 16-day journey combines the classic Annapurna Circuit route with a challenging yet rewarding side trip to Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world at 4,920 meters. Trekkers experience a variety of landscapes, from subtropical forests and terraced fields to alpine meadows and high mountain passes, alongside rich cultural encounters with local Gurung and Thakali communities.
This trek is considered moderately difficult to challenging due to its long duration, significant elevation gains, and the high altitude of Tilicho Lake and Thorong La Pass. Trekkers should have a good level of fitness and prior trekking experience is beneficial. Summit Nepal Adventure strongly recommends proper acclimatization days (like the one in Manang) to help prevent altitude sickness.
The ideal trekking seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these periods, the weather is generally stable with clear skies, moderate temperatures, and excellent mountain views. Winter months can be very cold with snow blocking higher passes, and the monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rainfall, making trails slippery and less safe.
The highest point on this trek is Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters. Additionally, Tilicho Lake is at an altitude of 4,920 meters. The itinerary includes gradual altitude gain with acclimatization stops, such as the rest day at Manang (3,540 meters), to ensure trekkers adapt safely to high elevations.
Accommodation is primarily in tea houses or lodges along the route, offering basic but comfortable rooms with shared or private bathrooms depending on the location. Summit Nepal Adventure ensures all stays are safe and hygienic. Meals include traditional Nepali dishes such as dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), as well as western options like pasta and noodles, suitable for trekkers’ nutritional needs.
Transportation is organized by Summit Nepal Adventure for the initial and final transfers. The itinerary begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani and concludes with a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, followed by a drive back to Kathmandu. All transportation is handled by experienced drivers with reliable vehicles.
The package includes all ground transportation, permits and fees, experienced English-speaking guides, porters (optional), accommodation, meals during the trek, and emergency support. Summit Nepal Adventure also provides pre-trek briefing and assistance with gear and packing lists.
Training recommendations include regular cardiovascular exercises like running, hiking, and stair climbing to build stamina. Mental preparation involves understanding the challenges of high altitude and variable weather. Summit Nepal Adventure offers pre-trek consultations to help you prepare effectively.
Summit Nepal Adventure prioritizes safety by providing well-trained guides familiar with high altitude symptoms, carrying first-aid kits and oxygen supplies, and following strict acclimatization schedules. Communication devices and emergency evacuation plans are in place to handle any unforeseen situations.
You can book your Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake by contacting Summit Nepal Adventure directly via our website or email. Early booking is recommended due to limited availability, especially in peak seasons. Our team will assist you with all necessary information, visa support, and customized itinerary options.
