18 Days Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek

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18 Days Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek

Trip Info

  • Star Hotel/ Tea House
  • Autumn
  • Guided
  • Available
  • 4130m
  • Pokhara
  • Kathmandu
  • English, Spanish, German, French, Chinese

Overview

Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the world’s best trekking trails. This trek offers you beautiful and diverse landscapes, changes in terrain, lush green forests, arid rocky trails, purest rivers, and sacred mountains. You see countless waterfalls cascading into the Main River, the deepest Kali Gandaki gorge, alpine forests, pasture, glacial lakes, glaciers, icefalls, and snow-capped mountains.

This Annapurna Circuit Trek is the classic trek in the Annapurna region. The trek encircles the eminent Annapurna massif passing through sub-tropical plains in the Himalayan foothills, trans-Himalayan Manang, and then the dry, rain shadow region of Mustang. Finally, you reach the highest pass – Thorang La Pass (5,416m). Then your trail tracks down to the Kali Gandaki River that flows through the deepest gorge on earth between two giant peaks.

Most interestingly, the Annapurna Circuit Trek gives you the most scenic moments to witness Dhaulagiri (8,167m/26,795ft) and Annapurna I (8,091m/26,545ft) including some other shining peaks like Manaslu (8,163m/26,781ft), Annapurna III (7,555m/24787ft), Gangapuram (7,455m/24,459ft), Annapurna South (7,219m/23,684ft), Machhapuchhre (6,997m/22,956ft) and Lamjung Himal (6,931m/22,740ft). Also, you enjoy the magnificent view of the Dhaulagiri massifs, Annapurna ranges, and the arid hills of the Upper Mustang.

You feel blessed at Muktinath – a popular pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Likewise, you meet people from various ethnic communities – Gurungs and Magars in the lower regions of the Kali Gandaki, Thakalis around Jomsom, and people with strong Tibetan roots, the Lopa, around Muktinath and up in Mustang. Observe their lifestyle, enjoy their culture and receive their true organic hospitality. When you reach Marpha (2,680m), you can enjoy tasting the unique flavor of local alcoholic drinks made from apples, apricot, or peach. You also can enjoy a hot shower at the natural hot spring when you visit Tatopani (Hot water)

The most rewarding classic Trek – Annapurna Circuit Trek- starts flying from Kathmandu to Pokhara – Nepal’s most beautiful tourist destination. Then, you travel to Jagat to Dharapani and then Chame – the headquarters of Manang district. You reach Manang, acclimatize, explore and rest in Manang. Further, you go to Yak Kharkha, then to Thorang Phedi. Passing the highest pass Thorand La Pass, you reach Muktinath – the sacred temple for both Hindus and Buddhists. Also, you visit Kagbeni Jomsom and descend to Tatopani. You cannot stop yourself from taking a hot shower at a natural hot spring and feeling healed naturally. Finally, you return to Pokhara, enjoying outstanding mountain views from Poon Hill and enjoying organic hospitality at Ghandruk Gurung village. And then you fly back to Kathmandu.

Trek Main Attractions

  • Trek the most exciting, diverse, yet challenging trek in the Annapurna region
  • Offers comparatively easier, safer, economical (time & money) than Everest Base Camp Trip
  • Average physical fitness trekkers can easily accomplish
  • Indulge with 3600 dazzling close views of Annapurna range – Annapurna – I (8,091m/26,454ft), Mt. Machhapuchre (6,997m/22,956ft), Bharha Chuli (7646m/25,085ft), Gandharva Chuli (6,248m/20827), and more
  • Be with charming local people (mostly Thakalis, Gurungs & Magars), their settlements and culture, fertile farmland, and traditional farming.
  • Enjoy Hot Spring at Jhinu Danda (Hill)
  • Well-experienced licensed guides, strong porters, and support crew members
  • Physically less challenging journey and heavenly natural pleasure – Collect lifetime experiences
  • One of the most satisfying treks among all destinations in Nepal.

Itinerary

Day 01 :
Arrival in Kathmandu - The Gateway to Nepal
Accommodation:At a Luxury Hotel/Guesthouse
Meals:Breakfast

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a member of our team will warmly welcome you and provide private transportation to your hotel or accommodation. You can either rest or explore around for the rest of the day.
At the end of the day, we’ll have a small meeting with the trek leaders and crews so that you don’t miss any sort of information.
Also our team will review your gears and ensure you have everything if not you can purchase or rent on the following day.

Day 02 :
Kathmandu to Dharapani by Jeep (1,860m/6,102ft)
Accommodation:Teahouse
Activity Duration:6-7 hours driving
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We will officially begin our journey to Annapurna Circuit Trek from today. We will start early with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar. After driving for approximately five hours, we’ll finally reach Besisahar. Now, we will once again  drive for next three to four hours and finally make it to Dharapani. We will spend our night here and prepare for tomorrow as we will begin our trek.

Day 03 :
Dharapani (1,860m/6,102ft) to Chame (2,670m/8,760ft)
Accommodation: Teahouse
Activity Duration: 5-6 hours hike
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

On the third day of trek, we’ll start from Dharepani passing through beautiful pine and fir forest and the villages of Bagarchhap and Danaque. We will also encounter some waterfalls and stunning rock cliffs on our way.  As we reach the beautiful town of Chame, the capital of the Manang District, we’ll begin to witness majestic peaks like Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II. We will spend our night in Chame and preapare for the following day.

Day 04 :
Chame (2,670m/8,760ft) to Upper Pisang (3,300m/10,826ft)
Accommodation:At a Luxury Hotel/Guesthouse
Activity Duration:5-6 hours hike
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The day four begins with an early trek passing through narrow valleys and dramatic rock cliffs such as Paungda Danda. We’ll follow the river upstream and cross multiple suspension bridges before arriving at the open valley of Pisang, which offers an incredible views of Annapurna II and IV. After walking of at least five hours we’ll reach Upper Pisang.  
 we will be staying overnight in Pisang at the teahouse and will take a proper rest to prepare ourselves for the following day.

Day 05 :
Upper Pisang (3,300m/10,826ft) to Ngawal (3,660m/12,007ft)
Accommodation:At a Luxury Hotel/Guesthouse
Activity Duration:13km, 6-7 Hours Trek
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we’ll start our trek from Upper  Pisang and heads toward  Ngawal. We will go through Ghyaru, a traditional Gurung Village where ancient stone houses cling to hillside. On our way we will experience the panoramic views of the Annapurna Range. After walking for five to six hours, we will finally reach Ngawal, which is widely known for its serene monasteries and wide mountain vistas. Once we reach to Ngawal we will explore around the village and stay overnight in Ngawal.

Day 06 :
Ngawal (3,660m/12,007ft) to Manang ( m/11,613 ft)
Accommodation:At a Luxury Hotel/Guesthouse
Activity Duration: 4-5 hours hike
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After spending a night in Ngawal, we will begin our journey to Manang just after having a delicious breakfast. The trek will be short as we will be walking only for four to five hours. Trekking along the trail, we will pass through fields and mani walls. Also, we will pass through Braka, home to a 500 years old monastery. And soon we’ll make our way to Manang. We’ll stay here overnight at the teahouse and prepare ourselves for the journey ahead.

Day 07 :
Manang: Acclimatization and Exploration Day
Accommodation:Teahouse
Activity Duration: Leisure day
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today will be our rest day to be both physically and mentally fit for upcoming journey. We’ll explore the village and go for a short hike to Gangapurna Lake, Chongkar Viewpoint, or even Ice Lake for the adventure. We’ll also visit the Himalayan Rescue Association Clinic for a quick altitude safety briefing as we’ll be hiking  above the 4000 meters elevation.

Day 08 :
Manang (3,540m/11,613ft) to Tilicho Base Camp
Accommodation:Teahouse
Activity Duration:6-7 hours hike
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we’ll leave the main Annapurna Circuit trail and take the side route toward the Tilicho Base Camp. On our way to Tilicho Base Camp, we’ll pass through Khangsar Village and traverse a narrow path with landslide prone sections. Once we reach to Tilicho Base Camp we will experience the best view of sunset and will stay overnight in a teahouse.

Day 09 :
Hike to Tilicho Lake (4,920m/16,138ft) and trek to Shree Kharka (4,080m/13,2865ft)
Accommodation:Teahouse
Activity Duration:5-6 hours hike
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

On our ninth day we will begin the trek early in the morning and ascend toward the mesmerizing Tilicho Lake, one of the world’s highest alpine lakes. Once we reach there, we’ll be able to witness the snow-capped peaks and blue skies. After soaking in the view and capturing some pictures we will return back to Base Camp. Then we will continue our trek downhill to Shree Kharka, a small settlement with a few teahouses. Shree Kharka will be the final stop for the day nine.

Day 10 :
Shree Kharka to Lader
Accommodation: Teahouse
Activity Duration: 4-5 hours hike
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

On the day ten we will once again rejoin the main Annapurna Circuit trail, following an undulating path through yak pastures and along ridgelines. Moving ahead, the landscape becomes more barren, with sweeping views of the Marsyangdi Valley below. Continue our walk for next three to four hours, we will finally reach Ledar, a small high-altitude settlement that serves as a resting point before the push toward Thorong La Pass. We will spend our night here for the day ten.

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Day 11 :
Lader to Thorong High Camp (4,800m/15,748ft)
Accommodation:Teahouse
Activity Duration:5-6 hours hike
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today’s journey begins begins with a trek from Ledar to Thorong Phedi, the last major stop before the pass. After walking for at least 3 to four hours we will finally reach Thorong Phedi. After a short rest, we will continue the steep ascent to high camp, where the thin air and surrounding snowy peaks reminds that we are deep into the Himalayas. Continuing our journey for next one hour we will finally reach Thorong High camp. We’ll spend our night here at an altitude of 4,800 meters. 

Day 12 :
Thorong High Camp to Muktinath (3,800m/12,467ft) via Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,769ft)
Accommodation: Teahouse
Activity Duration: 7-9 hours trek
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The day twelve of our journey will be a bit challenging as we pass through the world’s highest trekking pass, Thorong La Pass. The trial is steep and snowy but well-marked with prayer flags. Walking for at least four to five hours will lead us to the top of the Thorong La Pass. From the top, we’ll see an amazing stretch of Himalayan peaks. Then we will now descend to Muktinath, a reversed temple site for both Hindus and Buddhists, known for its 108 water spouts and eternal flame. We will spend our night in Muktinath.

Day 13 :
Muktinath to Jomsom (2,720m/8,923ft)
Accommodation:Teahouse
Activity Duration:5-6 hours hike
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After spending a night in Muktinath, we’ll now descend toward Jomson through Jharkot, a picturesque village with a large monastery and traditional Mustang architecture. Also, we’ll pass by Kagbeni, an ancient village with rich Tibetan Culture and Medieval architecture. We’ll continue our trek along the windy Kali Gandaki valley through Ekle Bhatti and finally arrive at Jomson. We will stay overnight at Jomson, exploring the village around.

Day 14 :
Jomsom to Tatopani (1,190m/3,904ft)
Accommodation:Teahouse
Activity Duration: 6-7 hours hike
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we’ll drive to Tatopani from Jomsom. The trip to Tatopani might take around six to eight hours from Jomsom depending on the road condition. The route descends through lush forests and terraced fields. Once we reach Tatopani, we will soak in the relaxing natural hot spring. We’ll make make our body relax and enjoy the moment. With a delicious dinner in Tatopani, we’ll conclude our day fourteen.

Day 15 :
Tatopani to Pokhara (820m/2,690ft)
Accommodation:Hotel/Guesthouse
Activity Duration:6-7 hours driving
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today our day starts with an early road journey to Pokhara. We will drive for at least seven to eight hours. Along the journey we will pass through cities like Beni and Baglung and finally make our way to Pokhara. Once we arrive in Pokhara, depending on your physical fitness we can either take a rest or visit the lake side and other famous places in Pokhara. At the end of the day you will prepare your luggage as we are heading back to Kathmandu the following day.

Day 16 :
Pokhara (820m/2,690ft) to Kathmandu (1,300m/4,265ft) via Flight
Accommodation:Lodge (Twin Room)
Activity Duration:9km, 3-4 Hours Trek
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is the day we bid farewell to the city of lakes, Pokhara. With the motive of returning back, we’ll leave Pokhara and head towards Kathmandu. Once we arrive in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your accommodation where you can take a most needed and deserving rest.

Day 17 :
Extra Day

We have included an extra reserve day in our itinerary. We can use this day anywhere during the trek. The reserve day offers us the flexibility to adjust our schedule in case of unexpected delays due to the weather or slower trekking pace or even because of some minor health issues. In case, we completed our trek on time without using the extra day, then we can spend one more day at Kathmandu, enjoying its attraction spots like Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.

Day 18 :
Final Departure

On the final day of our journey, we will bid you farewell and arrange your transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport. Please make sure your luggage is packed and that you haven’t left anything behind. We will ensure you reach the airport on time. With this, we conclude our 18 days trek to Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake. And hope to have you here next season for another trek.

Includes/Excludes

Cost Includes

  • City Accommodation (Normal, 3-Star and 5-Star Hotels)
  • Transportation in Cars or Jeeps (During your Trip) : Kathmandu-Dharapani, Tatopani to Pokhara
  • All airport transfers
  • Luxury Hotel in Kathmandu for two nights with breakfast
  • Flights : Pokhara–Kathmandu
  • All airport taxes
  • All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (National Park permit and TIMS)
  • An experienced English-speaking Govt. registered trekking guide and local porters to carry your luggage
  • Guide and porter salaries, insurance, equipment, transport, food, and lodging
  • Full meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner in the mountain
  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • A comprehensive First Aid kit
  • Oxi-meter: To check heart rating and oxygen saturation
  • All government and local taxes
  • Trekking equipment: down-filled sleeping bag, walking poles, and duffel bag
  • Souvenir: Trekking Route map printed T-Shirts

Cost Excludes

  • International Flight Fare
  • Food: Lunch & Dinner in the city
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
  • Hot and bottled drinks
  • Electronic device re-charge
  • Wi-Fi
  • Hot shower
  • Travel insurance and medical evacuation
  • Tipping

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

18 Days Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek
From $2250
/ Adult