Annapurna Circuit & Tilicho Lake Trek – 18 Days
Annapurna Circuit & Tilicho Lake Trek – A Himalayan Masterpiece of Nature and Spirit
The Annapurna Circuit & Tilicho Lake Trek is a journey through the heart of the Himalayas, an unforgettable loop that blends soaring peaks, sacred lakes, and vibrant cultures into one of Nepal’s most iconic adventures. Renowned for its diversity, this trek takes you from lush subtropical forests and terraced farmland to alpine meadows, high-altitude deserts, and glacial valleys carved by time. The route encircles the mighty Annapurna Massif, offering amazing views of Annapurna I (8,091m), Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Manaslu (8,163m), Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak (7,134m). Each day reveals a new horizon, whether it’s the dramatic cliffs of the Marsyangdi River gorge, the windswept plains of Manang, or the icy silence of Tilicho Lake.
Tilicho Lake (4,920m), is considered the highest glacial lake in the world. Nestled beneath the dramatic cliffs of Tilicho Peak (7,134m), the lake is a shimmering expanse of crystal-clear water surrounded by ice and silence. More than a natural wonder, Tilicho holds deep spiritual significance, it’s mentioned in the Hindu epic Ramayana, and during the full moon in August, Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims’ journey here to perform rituals and take purifying dips in its icy waters. After visiting the lake, the trail reconnects with the Annapurna Circuit, leading to Yak Kharka and Thorong Phedi before crossing the formidable Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters, one of the highest trekking passes on Earth. Crossing it is a rite of passage, offering panoramic views of Thorong Peak (6144 meters), Yakwakang Peak (6482 meters), and other snow-capped mountains on the Himalayan horizon.
Cultural immersion is woven into every step. Villages such as Manang, Braga, and Marpha offer warm hospitality, ancient monasteries, and a deep connection to Tibetan Buddhist traditions. You’ll share trails with yak caravans, hear prayer wheels spinning in the wind, and witness the resilience of mountain life. You’ll also experience the sacred sanctuary of Muktinath Temple (3,800m), one of Nepal’s holiest pilgrimage sites. The trek concludes with a scenic walk to Jomsom, from where trekkers either fly or drive back to Pokhara, marking the end of an unforgettable Himalayan adventure.
This adventure is designed for trekkers seeking a challenge. With well-maintained trails, cosy lodges and teahouses, and ample time for acclimatisation, the trek offers a perfect blend of physical endurance, spiritual reflection, and natural beauty.
Trek Cost Details (2025 & 2026)
Annapurna Circuit & Tilicho Lake Trek
Group Size – Cost PP (USD)
2-3 –
4-6 –
7-8 –
9-10 –
11+ –
$1,346
$1,222
$1,060
$1,047
Contact Us
Notes
• If you are a solo trekker please contact us for prices and details.
• We do not merge travellers into mixed groups — your trek is private and personalised.
• Need a trek to fit your budget? Contact us — we’re happy to help tailor your experience.
Highlights
- Thorong La Pass, the trek’s highest point at 5,416 meters, offering breathtaking mountain views.
- Experience the rich cultures of Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan villages.
- A sacred pilgrimage site, Tilicho, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.
- A picturesque valley with stunning views and a crucial acclimatisation stop.
- Enjoy panoramic vistas of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks.
- Visit Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world.
- Enjoy breathtaking views of the Annapurna massif, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and other Himalayan giants.
- Traverse through varied landscapes, including lush forests, arid mountain deserts, and rocky trails.
- Tackle the challenge of crossing the Thorong La Pass, one of the highest and most famous passes in the world.
- Visit ancient Buddhist monasteries and learn about the spiritual practices of the local communities.
- Blue Sheep at Yak Kharka, spot Himalayan blue sheep grazing in their natural habitat.
- Explore the picturesque landscapes and cultural richness of Manang, a gateway to the high Himalayas.
Itinerary
Arrival & Preparation:
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,355m)
Upon arrival at Kathmandu International Airport our staff will greet you at the airport and escort you to your 3* hotel in Kathmandu. Depending upon your arrival time you may spend free time visiting nearby cultural sites, shopping or simply resting at your hotel. Overnight 3★ hotel. Driving 1 hour.
Day 2: Trek preparations in Kathmandu
Today we will be finalising your trek preparations and permits. You will have the day to explore the cultural sites of Kathmandu and do any last-minute gear shopping. In the early evening you will have a trek briefing with your guide. Overnight 3★ hotel.
Into the Hills:
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar (823m)
The journey begins as you leave Kathmandu with your guide in a private vehicle, and drive through Nepal’s middle hills, passing through charming roadside towns, lush green valleys, and terraced rice fields. Along the way, you’ll follow the Trishuli River, and later the Marshyangdi River, which will accompany you for much of the trek. Besisahar offers a mix of Gurung and Magar culture, with traditional homes, local eateries, and views of the surrounding hills. Overnight teahouse. Driving 5-6 hours.
Day 04: Drive Besisahar to Chame (2650m)
Today’s journey follows the Marshyangdi River, winding through steep gorges, cascading waterfalls, and dense forests of pine and fir. As the altitude increases, the landscape becomes more dramatic, towering above the valley are some of the region’s most striking peaks, Lamjung Himal (6,983m) and Annapurna II (7,937m). Chame village offers a blend of Tibetan-influenced culture with stone houses. A short walk from the village leads to natural hot springs, where trekkers can soak and unwind. Overnight teahouse. Driving 3-4 hours
Forest Trails & High Peaks:
Day 05: Chame to Pisang (3300m)
Today we start our trek through pine forests and past the village of Telekhu, with stunning views of Annapurna II (7,937m), Annapurna IV (7,525m), and Pisang Peak (6,091m). After crossing a suspension bridge over the Marshyangdi River. The trail climbs gradually to Dhukur Pokhari, where the terrain becomes drier, entering the rain shadow of the Annapurna range. Pisang itself is a picturesque village, offering traditional stone houses, peaceful atmosphere, with panoramic mountain views. Overnight Tea house. Trekking 5-6 hours.
Day 06: Pisang to Manang (3520m).
Pisang marks the start of our journey into the upper Manang region. The trail passes through Braga, a traditional Tibetan village known for its unique architecture, where houses are built one upon another. A key attraction here is the Braga Gompa, the largest and most significant monastery in the Manang region. As we continue, the landscape becomes drier and more rugged, reflecting the rain shadow of the Annapurna range. Manang is a bustling stop for trekkers, known for its stunning mountain views of Annapurna III (7,555m), Gangapurna (7,455m), and Tilicho Peak (7,134m). Overnight lodge Trekking 5-6 hours.
Acclimatisation & Ascent:
Day 07: Acclimatisation Day at Manang (3520m).
Today is a rest and acclimatiSation day in Manang, allowing your body to adjust to the increasing altitude before heading higher. While resting, you can explore the beautiful village of Manang, known for its Tibetan-influenced culture, stone houses, and stunning mountain views. For acclimatisation, short hikes are recommended. You can select from the following short hikes:
Overnight in lodge.
Day 08: Manang to Shree Kharka (4050m)
Today’s trek veers off the main Annapurna Circuit and into wilder terrain as you head toward Shree Kharka. The trail climbs steeply from Manang, winding past ancient chortens and into the quiet village of Khangsar. As you approach Shree Kharka, the views open up to reveal Tilicho Peak (7134m) and Gungang Himal (6015m). This remote outpost offers a peaceful retreat and a front-row seat to some of the Annapurna region’s most dramatic scenery. Overnight in lodge, trekking 5 hours.
Tilicho Wilderness:
Day 09: Shree Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp (4150m)
Today’s trek plunges into raw alpine wilderness as the trail narrows and clings to steep, landslide-prone slopes. With every step, the terrain grows more dramatic, sheer drops and exposed ridgelines make this one of the most thrilling sections of the journey. As you reach Tilicho Base Camp, the landscape opens to reveal Tilicho Peak (7,134m) and Khangsar Kang (7,485m). The jagged ridges of the Annapurna range loom in every direction, it’s a place of stark beauty. Overnight in lodge. Trekking 3–4 hours.
Day 10: Hike to Tilicho Lake (4919m) & return to Tilicho Base Camp (4150m)
The day starts early with a steep and challenging ascent to Tilicho Lake. The trail is rugged with breathtaking views of Tilicho Peak (7,134m), Gangapurna (7,455m), and the Annapurna range. After 3–4 hours of trekking, you’ll arrive at the shimmering turquoise waters of Tilicho Lake, nestled beneath towering cliffs and glaciers. The lake holds spiritual significance for both Hindus and Buddhists and offers a moment of quiet reflection. After soaking in the views and catching your breath, retrace your steps carefully back to Tilicho Base Camp, descending through the same rugged terrain. Overnight lodge. Trekking: 6–7 hours round trip.
Return to the Circuit:
Day 11: Tilicho Base Camp to Shree Kharka (4,050m)
Today’s descent winds through dramatic alpine terrain, where steep, narrow trails cling to rocky slopes and the towering face of Tilicho Peak (7,134m) dominates the skyline. As you move through this rugged terrain, the stark beauty of the high Himalayas unfolds, glacial valleys, and jagged ridges. Gradually, the landscape softens, and the trail begins to contour along the mountainside. Below, the Marsyangdi River glints in the distance. The descent leads you gently into Shree Kharka, to rest and reflect. Overnight lodge. Trekking 4–5 hours.
Day 12 Trek from Shree Kharka to Yak Kharka (4,018m)
Today we descend into the quiet stone-lined paths of Khangsar Village, where Tare Gumba monastery offers a moment of spiritual calm. The trail then threads through the Thorong Khola Valley, revealing sweeping views of the Chulu Peaks, Gungang Himal, and the distant ridges of Thorong Peak (6,144m). As you pass the remains of Old Khangsar, an abandoned village frozen in time, you’ll feel the deep history etched into the landscape. Crossing rugged terrain and dry alpine slopes, the trail gradually climbs toward Yak Kharka. Overnight lodge. Trekking 4–5 hours.
The High Crossing:
Day 13: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4540m)
Today’s trek takes you higher into the alpine wilderness, gradually adapting to the increasing altitude. Following the Jarang Khola, the trail climbs steadily through rocky terrain, revealing dramatic views of Thorong Peak, Khatung Kang (6,484m), and the towering cliffs that frame the valley. The final stretch leads to Thorong Phedi, aptly named the “foothills” of the mighty Thorong La Pass. Overnight lodge. Trekking 4–5 hours.
Day 14: Thorong Phedi via Throrong La Pass (5416m) to Muktinath (3800m).
Today we begin early to cross Thorong La Pass, one of the highest trekking passes on earth. The ascent is steep and breathless, but the reward is unmatched – at the summit, you’re greeted by sweeping views of Himalayan peaks, including Thorong Peak (6144 meters) and Yakwakang Peak (6482 meters) and other snow-capped mountains. The descent into Muktinath is long and dramatic, winding through the stark beauty of the Mustang region. Muktinath itself is a revered pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, known for its eternal flame, sacred springs, and peaceful temples. Trekking 7–8 hours.
Mustang Descent:
Day 15: Muktinath to Jomsom (2,743m) via Kagbeni
Today’s trek unfolds across the windswept views of the Mustang Valley, as you descend from the sacred heights of Muktinath into a world of ochre cliffs, braided rivers, and timeless villages. The trail offers sweeping views of Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Nilgiri (7,061m), their icy summits rising above the arid terrain. After a short climb, you reach Kagbeni, an ancient village perched on the banks of the Kali Gandaki River, with narrow alleys, ancient monasteries, and Tibetan-style homes. From here, the path follows the river’s edge, descending gently toward Jomsom, the bustling gateway to Mustang and your final stop before returning to Pokhara. Overnight in lodge. Trekking 5–6 hrs.
Day 16: Fly from Jomson to Pokhara (820 m)
On the final day of your trek, we will fly from Jomsom to Pokhara, with final aerial views of Dhaulagiri (8167m), Annapurna South, and Machhapuchhre (6,993m). Upon arriving in Pokhara, we’ll transfer you to your hotel, where you can relax, reflect on your adventure, and enjoy the serene surroundings of Phewa Lake. Overnight 3★ hotel. Flying time 30 minutes.
Farewell and Departure:
Day 17: Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,400 m)
Today we will take a scenic drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu, by luxury tourist bus. The journey follows the Prithvi Highway, passing through picturesque hills, and countryside villages. The rest of the day is free for souvenir shopping, sightseeing, or simply relaxing. In the evening, we invite you as our guest to enjoy a traditional Nepali farewell dinner together with our team in Kathmandu. A great way to celebrate your incredible trek through the Mustang region. Overnight 3★ Hotel. Driving 7-8 hours.
Day 18: Departure from Kathmandu
Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a final stroll through the city or a short visit to a nearby temple. Our staff will escort you to the airport for your onward journey. Or, if you’re keen to explore more of Nepal’s wonders, we can help to arrange a custom extension to your trip.
What’s Included in your Annapurna Circuit & Tilicho Lake Trek
Your adventure is thoughtfully designed to include everything you need for a safe, comfortable, and culturally rich experience — from airport transfers to farewell dinner.
- All hotel–airport transfers as per itinerary
- Private vehicle from Kathmandu to Besisahar, and onto Chame
- Airfare and taxes between Jomsom and Pokhara (total 15kg luggage allowance)
- Luxury Tourist Bus between Pokhara and Kathmandu
- Kathmandu 3★ hotel – 3 nights, bed & breakfast
- Pokhara 3★ hotel – 1 night, bed & breakfast
- 13 nights lodge and tea-house accommodation on trek
- Three meals a day during trek: breakfast, lunch, dinner, with tea or coffee
- Fully licensed, English-speaking trekking guide (salary, food, equipment, insurance included). Assistant guide provided for every six trekkers
- Porter service (one porter per two trekkers; salary, food, insurance included)
- All necessary national park fees, permits, and paperwork
- Local and government taxes
- First aid kit available during trek
- Emergency helicopter arrangement (cost covered by your insurance)
- Complimentary trekking map to keep
- Complimentary trekking duffle bag to keep
- Complimentary loan of sleeping bag during trek
- Farewell dinner
What’s Not Included
While we’ve covered the essentials, here are a few things you’ll need to arrange separately:
- International airfare and arrival/departure taxes to and from Kathmandu
- Nepal visa fees upon arrival (please bring accurate USD cash and two passport-size photos)
- Personal travel/trekking insurance — You must have insurance, covering trekking up to 5,416m and rescue in case of emergency
- Additional expenses in tea-houses (Wi-Fi, charging, hot showers, laundry, bottled drinks, speciality coffees (espresso, latte etc), snacks, bar bills, phone calls, etc.)
- Additional activities like paragliding, zip-lining, or extra sightseeing at Pokhara.
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
- Lunch and dinner in Pokhara
- Extra night(s) accommodation in Pokhara/Kathmandu if returning early from the trek or late departure.
- Tips for guides and porters
