ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK WITH TILICHO LAKE
ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK WITH TILICHO LAKE
THE DEEPEST GORGE – HIGHEST LAKE – MASSIVE MOUNTAINS.
This 17 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek includes a trek to the enchanting emerald green Tilicho Lake at an amazing altitude of 4919m, spectacular views of the awesome Annapurna Massif and trek through Throng La Pass (5416m) makes this a trek not to be missed!
The 17 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek includes Tilicho Lake (the world’s highest lake) and takes you to the culturally rich settlement of Manang. The trail takes you through the Kali Gandaki Gorge (the deepest gorge on earth) and through one of the highest altitude passes in Nepal – Thorong La Pass all within the Annapurna Conservation Area. You will visit the spiritually rich Muktinath Temple (3710m), sacred to Hindus and Buddhists, located at the base of Thorong La Pass. On the trail you will pass through sub-tropical forests and climbing higher will pass through Rhododendron and Cyprus forests. The highlight, and camera lover’s dream, is the awesome view of the Annapurna Ranges from Poon Hill as the sun rises.
We initially drive to Chame Village from Kathmandu and then trek to Thorong La Pass through Manang. After passing through Thorong La Pass we ascend to Tilicho Lake nestled among the mountains. After crossing Thorong La Pass we descend Jomson and then fly back to Pokhara. As well as the Annapurna Massif, you will also see the equally grand Dhaulagiri Massif and Manaslu (8154m).
Sherpa Expedition and Trekking are confident that your journey into this region will leave you with many unforgettable memories.
Key Features of Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake
- A scenic journey along the Marsyangdi River & Kali-Gandaki Valley & ever-changing scenery.
- Trek from the lower sub-tropic warm areas to the high arctic terrain, constant views of Annapurna - the world’s highest mountain range, Manaslu and Dhaulagiri’s, and view the world’s deepest gorge
- Firsthand experience of traditional Buddhist culture & architecture and passing through the charming villages on the ancient Trans-Himalayan caravan route.
- World's highest lake – Tilicho 4919m)
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Arrival in Kathmandu transfer to Hotel.
Sherpa Expedition & Trekking staff will be there to greet you at Tribhuvan International Airport and take you to your hotel, followed by a briefing covering information, do’s, and don’ts of your trek. Your safety and comfort are paramount.
Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat (1100m) Duration: 8 hours.
Today we have an 8-hour drive ahead of us to Besisahar by private vehicle and then we take a jeep to Jagat. This drive gives you an insight to how the local people in this region survive in such a rugged and remote location. Guesthouse accommodation. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Day 3 : Trek from Chamje to Bagarchhap (2,160m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Leaving Chame we pass through rhododendron, pine, and bamboo forests and follow the trail through the valley before arriving at Tal and its cultivated farm plots of wheat, potatoes, and other grains. After passing through Dharapani we head in a westerly direction via fir and pine forests until we reach Bagarchhap where we stay the night. Today’s trek is of around 7 hours. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 4 : Bagarchhap to Chame (2630m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
From Bagarchhap we continue to the village of Danaque before climbing higher where we are offered magnificent views of Manaslu (8163m), Annapurna, and other towering peaks. Our trek takes us through several Tibetan villages, such as Thanchowk, Kolo before reaching our destination, Chame. Today’s trek is around 6 to 7 hours. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 5 : Chame to Pisang (3,300m) Duration: 6 hours.
After leaving Chame we pass through Telekhu and along the trail have some breathtaking views of Annapurna and Pisang (6091m) until we have to re-cross on a suspension bridge to the south bank of the Marsyangdi River. After crossing the river we t head higher passing a pine-forest as we trek through the upper reach of the Manang valley to Pisang. Tonight we stay at Pisang. Today’s trek is around 7 hours. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 6 : Pisang to Manang (3,500m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
The town of Pisang is the start of our trek in the upper Manang area. Today we head to Braga; a Tibetan village with its unique architecture with houses constructed one upon the other. One of its main attractions is its Gompa, the largest in the Manang region. Manang is popular with trekkers and is also a place to acclimatize before heading to higher altitudes. Today’s trek is a big one at around 6 to 7 hours. We stay here for the night. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 7 : Manang-Acclimatization Day
Medical professionals recommend that before heading to higher elevations that trekkers spend some time acclimatizing. They also recommend staying active. Today we will climb up to Khangsar (3756m) as a way to further help us acclimatize. Overnight stay at Manang. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 8 : Manang to Siri Kharka (4060m), Duration: 4-5 hours.
Leaving Manang we trek for 4 to 5 hours before reaching Bangsar Village (3756m). The trail then goes uphill towards Siri Kharka, passing through a small religious village along the way. The trail is quite demanding physically, but once we reach higher altitudes the views will compensate, with amazing views of Gungang Himal and Mt. Chulu. Guesthouse accommodation. Breakfast, lunch & dinner are included.
Day 9 : Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp (4,140m), Duration: 5-6 hours.
The trek today is less difficult, but you have to be careful to avoid slips on the gravelly path and potential avalanches. We trek for around 5 to 6 hours. Tonight we will stay at Tilicho Base Camp. Guest house accommodation. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 10 : Visit the Tilicho Lake (4,949m) at that point back to Siri Kharka, Duration: 5-6 hours.
Today we climb higher toward Tilicho Lake, around 5 to 6-hour trek, located at the base of Tilicho Peak (7134m). Along the trail, you may see yaks and deer grazing. The changing light causes the color of the lake to change through many shades of blue. After some time admiring the lake and surrounding peaks and snapping some photos we will return to Sri Kharka. It covers an area of 4.8 sqkm. Guesthouse accommodation. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 11 : Siri Kharka to Yak Kharka (4040m) Duration: 4-5 hours.
Today we begin our trek descending to Khangsar Village today passing through Tare Gumba (3870m) known for its monastery. We follow the Thorong Khola Valley until we reach the abandoned village of Old Khangsar before reaching our destination Yak Kharka. Guest house accommodation. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 12 : Yak Kharka to Phedi or High Camp (4600m) Duration: 4-5 hours.
Climbing higher we gradually get used to the higher altitude. We follow the east bank of the Jarang Khola and along with the trail view steep bluffs before reaching Thorong Phedi (meaning foothills). We can also trek for one more hour to High Camp (4800m). If we are lucky we may see the famous blue sheep and even a snow leopard! This is also home to Lammergeyer (bearded vulture). There is also a belief the mythical griffons are in this region! Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 13 : Thorung Phedi or High Camp to Muktinath (3710m), Duration: 7-9 hours.
Today is most likely the toughest day of the trek, hiking for around 7-8 hours. The higher altitude contributes to the degree of difficulty and sometimes strong winds in these upper regions. Along the trail, we may pass sheep, yaks, and merchants transporting their goods. Once we reach Thorong La Pass we will be rewarded with breath-taking views of Annapurna, Gangapurna, and the eye-catching peak of Khatungkang (6484m). Leaving the pass we descend around 1600 meters and the brilliant Dhaulagiri (Dhaula Giri, meaning “White Mountain”) is the highest mountain that is entirely in Nepal. The trail is more undulating and relatively easy before we reach Muktinath where we stay the night after a 10-hour trek. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 14 : Trek to Jomsom (2713m) Duration: 5-6 hours
From Muktinath, we pass through lush meadows, fruit trees, and streams passing through Kagbeni before we reach Jomson in the. Kali Gandaki valley. Kagbeni has a well-deserved reputation for its horticulture industry. Today we trek for around 6 to 7 hours. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 15 : Drive to Pokhara (850m/2788 ft) Duration: 7-8 hours.
Our 7-8 hour road trip today takes us from Jomson via Tatopani (hot springs and time for a dip!) via Jomson to Beni Bazaar before reaching Pokhara. Once you arrive in Pokhara and check into your lakeside hotel you will have time to spare and can take a boat trip on Phewa Tal (lake), meander along the lakeside, browse the shops and in the evening have a few drinks at one of the many bars while watching the sunset over the distant mountains. Breakfast & Lunch included.
Day 16 : Drive back to Kathmandu,transfer to hotel; Duration: 6-7 hours.
Today we head back on a 6 to 7 hour drive to Kathmandu with many fond memories of Nepal and its unique culture and geography. These memories will last a lifetime!
Day 17 : International departure homeward bound.
Sherpa Expeditions & Trekking staff will transfer you to the airport for your final departure from Nepal. We hope that this epic trek will be firmly ingrained in your memory and will be enough to prompt you to consider your next trek with us!
SERVICES
Cost Included In Your Package
- Airport pick up and drop services on a private vehicle.
- 2 night’s hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
- Kathmandu - Besisahar transfers on a local bus, Pokhara - Kathmandu transportation on a Local bus
- One night hotel accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast
- Jomsom To Pokhara transportation by Local Bus.
- Three Meals a day [Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner] during the trek
- Accommodation on beautiful cozy tea houses as per the itinerary
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) entry permits and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) cards
- Experienced English speaking, government licensed and ministry of tourism trained trekking guide with meals, accommodation, salary and insurance
- Strong experienced Sherpa helpers [porters] with meals, accommodation, salary, and insurance
- Use of sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag and walking poles (if you don’t have your own, to be returned after trip completed).
- Sherpa Expedition and Trekking T-shirt
- Comprehensive first aid medical kit carried by the guide / American medical association approved Oximeter
- Necessary paper works, all government, and local taxes, company service charges
- Assistant trekking guide for groups over 8 people with meals, accommodation, salary, and insurance
- Trip achievement certificate after successful trip completion.
- Oxygen meter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) which will ensure your health during the trek.
Costs Exclude
- Meals whilst you are in Kathmandu & Pokhara- lunch, and dinner.
- Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $25 USD for 15-day visa.
- Personal travel and medical insurance.
- International airfare.
- Your personal expenses.
- All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic, soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, extra food, cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses)
- All desserts & sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
- Hot shower and battery charging at the tea houses.
- Tips for the guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected)
- NOTE: If you return earlier from the trek due to sickness or any problem, the money you paid for the flight, hotel, mountain room, food, etc. is nonrefundable, and you will need to bear the expenses for the hotel, food, etc. in Kathmandu yourself.
EQUIPMENTS
The following information will give you some idea about what you need to bring for the trek. It is important you do not forget the essential items, as this will determine your comfort and safety on the trek. Equally important is that you do not burden yourself with unnecessary equipment on the trek.
General
- All season sleeping bag and down Jacket (we can provide if you need it, but has to be returned after the trek)
- Duffle bag ( Sherpa Expedition & Trekking provide duffle bag during the trek but has to be returned after the trek)
- A wind and waterproof thin layered jacket (a must-have for morning and evenings above 3,000m)
- Daypack
Upper Body- Head / Ears / Eyewear
- A pair of half gloves
- A warmer hat that covers the ears
- Sunglasses
- Neckwarmer
- Sunscreen (35 to 60 SPF)
- Headlamp and an extra set of batteries
Hands
- A pair of half gloves for walking poles(if you prefer)
- Warmer shell gloves and liner
Upper Body
- long sleeve t-shirts
- Thermal tops
- wool jacket or pullover
- Sports bras for women and girls
- Water and windproof shell jacket
Lower Body
- Thermal underwear (especially trousers)
- windproof and waterproof trousers
- warmer trousers
- Comfortable trekking pants
- Extra casual sport pants
Footwear
- A pair of good waterproof trekking boots
- Pair of sandals
- 4-5 pairs of woolen socks
- Sock liners
- Light shoes and sneakers
- First Aid Kits and Medicines
- Assorted adhesive bandages (fabric preferred)
- Blister treatment cream or similar
- Insect / anti-itch ointment
- Ibuprofen or other pain-relief medication
- Diamox (125mg to 250mg tablets for altitude sickness)
- Warps, splints, and wound coverings butterfly bandage
- Water purifying pills
(Note our company guide will carry the medicines and first aid kits during the trek. However, we recommend you bring your personal first-aid kit as well)
Miscellaneous - but must useful on the trek
- 4 passport size photos with original passport
- Water bottle & filter
- Flight details (please make a copy and leave one pic at our office in KTM because in case you want to change your flight date)
- Bathroom kit (conform, should be included toilet paper, plastic bags, hand wipes, towel, and soap, etc.)
Extra things
- Comfortable trekking poles
- Quality energy dry foods (up to you)
- Power bank and music players
- Camera (memory card, chargers, and extra batteries)
GOOD TO KNOW
Accommodation
You will be accommodated in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu. During the trek, we will be staying at lodges/ teahouses. You may find comfort and better quality teahouses - having attached bathroom at lower levels- until you reach higher elevations, where the accommodation is more basic with bare necessities.
Meals during the trek
In Kathmandu, your hotel includes breakfast, whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided during the trek. A staple food of the Manang & Mustang regions is potatoes, oats, buckwheat, Sherpa stew, and Tibetan bread. Sherpa’s’ started farming potatoes when the first seeds were introduced to the region in the early 90s. There is a limited choice of food at higher elevations and except many potato dishes. Potatoes are high in carbohydrates – an excellent source of energy needed at high altitudes.
Transportation
We use a private car for sightseeing and for the airport to hotel pick and drop off. We use public transportation or local buses during the trek.
Physical fitness
This can be a challenging trek where you often have to walk 6-7 hours a day. You need past experience of hiking or trekking but if you have done any kind of trekking activities then it is always a plus! We have met people from all walks of life, shapes, and sizes who have completed the trek. The only difficult part is when altitude sickness strikes and the effect that it can have on your body. Before leaving for Nepal it is good if you can prepare yourself physically by increasing your stamina and oxygen intake.
Remember – The better prepared – the more enjoyable your trek!
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FAQS
What is the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek?
The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is an extended version of the classic Annapurna Circuit Trek. It includes a side trip to Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world, offering stunning views and a unique experience.
How long is the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek?
The duration of the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek can vary depending on the specific itinerary and trekking agency. Typically, it takes around 18-21 days to complete the trek.
What is the best time to do the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek?
The best time to do the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer pleasant weather, clear skies, and favorable trekking conditions.
Do I need a permit for the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek?
Yes, you will need a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card and an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) to do the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek. These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
What is the difficulty level of the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek?
The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is considered to be a challenging trek. It involves long hours of walking each day, including steep ascents and descents. Previous trekking experience at high altitudes and a good level of fitness are highly recommended.
What is the maximum altitude reached during the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek?
The maximum altitude reached during the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is Thorong La Pass, which stands at an elevation of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet). Tilicho Lake itself is situated at an altitude of 4,919 meters (16,138 feet).
What are the accommodation and food options during the trek?
Accommodation during the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is usually in basic teahouses or lodges along the trail. These provide simple rooms with shared facilities. As for food, you can expect to find a variety of Nepali and international dishes, including dal bhat (rice and lentil soup), momo (dumplings), and noodles.
Is a guide necessary for the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek?
While it is not mandatory to hire a guide for the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek, it is highly recommended, especially if you are not familiar with the area or have limited high-altitude trekking experience. A guide can provide valuable insights, help with navigation, and ensure your safety throughout the trek.
What should I pack for the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek?
Some essential items to pack for the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek include sturdy trekking shoes, warm clothing, a good-quality backpack, a sleeping bag, a water bottle, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first aid kit.
Can I combine the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek with other treks in the region?
Yes, it is possible to combine the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek with other treks in the Annapurna region, such as the Annapurna Base Camp Trek or the Mardi Himal Trek. This allows you to explore more of the stunning landscapes and cultural diversity of the area.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
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Based On 38 Reviews
Corey Stevens
Argentina
December 29, 2023
An Unforgettable Trekking Journey
My partner and I did the trek with Sherpa Expedition and Trekking Team, and it was an unforgettable journey. The company's attention to detail and services were excellent, and our guide was incredibly attentive and helpful. The itinerary was well-planned, and the accommodation and food were superb. Thank you for an amazing experience.
Precious Ihuoma
Australia
December 19, 2023
Highly Satisfied with Sherpa Expedition and Trekking Team
Me and my friend did the trek with Sherpa Expedition and Trekking Team, and we were highly satisfied with our experience. The company's organization and services were outstanding, and our guide was attentive and helpful. The itinerary was well-thought-out, and the accommodation and food were fantastic. We would definitely choose this company again.
Emilia C Garcia
Australia
December 2, 2023
A Trek to Remember
We did the trek with Sherpa Expedition and Trekking Team, and it was a truly memorable experience. The company's organization and services were top-notch, and our guide was incredibly attentive and helpful. The itinerary was well-planned, and the accommodation and food were delightful. We would definitely choose this company again.
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