Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake

Annapurna, situated in the Himalayas in north-central Nepal, is a renowned mountain range with peaks surpassing 8,000 meters, thirteen peaks over 7,000 meters, and sixteen over 6,000 meters. The Annapurna massif is bordered by the Kali Gandaki Gorge, Marshyangdi River, and Pokhara Valley, with the Annapurna Sanctuary at its western end.

Why Choose This Trek?

• Combines the classic Annapurna Circuit with a detour to Tilicho Lake—the world’s highest lake at 5,416 meters.

• Traverse stunning landscapes: forests, rivers, valleys, and picturesque Nepalese villages.

• Cross the challenging Thorung La Pass (5,416 m) for breathtaking Himalayan views.

• Experience the rich culture and hospitality of local communities1.

Key Facts

FeatureDetailsDuration16–20 daysDistance160–260 km (100–161 miles)Max AltitudeThorung La Pass, 5,416 m (17,769 ft)DifficultyModerate to ChallengingAccommodationTeahouses, guesthouses, occasional homestaysBest SeasonsOctober–November, April–MayStarts InBesisahar or Besi SaharEnds InJomsom or PokharaTransportationWalking, local transport (bus, 4WD), internal flights

Highlights

• Tilicho Lake: The world’s highest lake, surrounded by Himalayan peaks and wildflowers.

• Thorung La Pass: One of the world’s highest trekking passes with panoramic mountain vistas.

• Cultural Encounters: Traditional villages, monasteries, and warm Nepalese hospitality.

• Diverse Landscapes: Subtropical forests, alpine meadows, and dramatic mountain scenery1.

Outline Itinerary

• Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu

• Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley (Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, Patan Durbar Square)

• Day 03: Drive Kathmandu to Besisahar, trek to Bahundada (1,430m)

• Day 04: Trek Bahundanda to Tal Village (1,700m)

• Day 05: Trek Tal to Timang Danda (2,750m)

• Day 06: Trek Timang Danda to Chame (2,725m)

• Day 07: Trek Chame to Pisang (3,300m)

• Day 08: Trek Pisang to Manang (3,540m)

• Day 09: Acclimatization in Manang

• Day 10: Trek to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m)

• Day 11: Trek to Tilicho Lake (5,180m) and return to Base Camp

• Day 12: Trek to Yak Kharka (4,020m)

• Day 13: Trek to High Camp Annapurna (4,850m)

• Day 14: Trek to Muktinath via Thorung La Pass (5,416m)

• Day 15: Trek to Jomsom (2,720m)

• Day 16: Flight Jomsom to Pokhara

• Day 17: Drive Pokhara to Kathmandu

• Day 18: Departure from Kathmandu1

Detailed Itinerary

Provide a collapsible or downloadable section for the full day-by-day itinerary as detailed in the source1.

Practical Information

Difficulty & Preparation:
Expect 7–8 hours of trekking per day, steep ascents, rocky terrain, and high-altitude conditions. Good physical fitness is required.

Best Time to Trek:

• Autumn (Oct–Nov): Warm days, cold nights, clear views.

• Spring (Apr–May): Warmer, blooming rhododendrons.

• Winter (Dec–Mar): Very cold, possible snow blockages.

• Monsoon (Jun–Sep): Rainy, but some northern areas remain trek-friendly1.

Permits Required:

• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

• TIMS card

Packing List Essentials:
Layered clothing, trekking boots, sleeping bag, water purification, first aid kit, sun protection, snacks.

Accommodation & Meals:
Stay in teahouses and guesthouses with basic facilities. Meals include local and international dishes.

Transportation:
Mix of walking, local buses/jeeps, and a short flight from Jomsom to Pokhara.

Health & Safety:
Acclimatize properly, be aware of altitude sickness, and know emergency protocols.

Maps & Visuals

• Route map showing the circuit, Tilicho Lake, and major stops.

• High-quality photos of Tilicho Lake, Thorung La, villages, and landscapes.

Booking & Customization

• Prominent “Book Now” or “Enquire” button.

• Options for private or group departures, and itinerary adjustments.

FAQs

• How difficult is the trek?

• What permits are needed?

• Is prior trekking experience required?

• What is the accommodation like?

• Can I trek solo?

• What is the best season for this trek?

Testimonials & Reviews

Showcase authentic feedback from previous trekkers.

Alternative Treks

Trek NameHighlightsDifficultyAnnapurna Sanctuary TrekBase Camp, diverse flora/fauna, stunning viewsModerateMardi Himal TrekLess crowded, high ridges, rhododendron forestsModeratePoon Hill-Ghorepani TrekEasy, panoramic sunrise views, local cultureEasy to Moderate

Cultural and Religious Significance

• Annapurna is named after the Hindu goddess of food and nourishment, Parvati.

• The region features temples like Muktinath, sacred to Hindus and Buddhists.

• Rich in myth and tradition, Annapurna is central to local spiritual life1.

Conservation & Responsible Travel

• The Annapurna region is protected within the Annapurna Conservation Area.

• Practice Leave No Trace principles and support local communities.