ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT WITH TILICHO LAKE TREK 15 DAYS
ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT WITH TILICHO LAKE TREK 15 DAYS
This 15-day trek takes you through the Annapurna Conservation Area and to the highest alpine pass in the world – Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,769ft) and to Tilicho Lake. You will also trek through the deepest gorge - Kaligandaki Gorge (5,571m). Thorong La Pass and the Kali Gandaki Gorge are just two of the astonishing features on this trek. You will discover why this is the most popular trekking region in Nepal. You will follow trails through beautiful rhododendron, oak, bamboo and cyprus forests and be taken aback at the closeness of the massive snow covered peaks: Annapurna I, II, III, IV, Dhaulagiri (8167m) (meaning white beautiful mountain in Sanskrit), Machapuchare (Fish Tail), Annapurna South and Manaslu.
You will also experience the diverse cultures of the villagers living in this remote region with a visit to the celebrated Buddhist and Hindu holy site at Muktinath. It is claimed that there are more than a 100 varieties of orchids in the region, as well as many animals like the Martin deer, Langur monkey and the elusive Snow Leopard.
Trekking in the Annapurna region will expose you to the renowned Sherpas and their warm friendly smiles. They are also famous for their hardiness as high altitude mountain climbers. Their reputation is unparalleled in this field. Any serious expedition to the many huge peaks will very likely have Sherpas leading the way.
The actual trek starts from Syange and takes you through many villages: Dharapani (1,960m/6,430ft), Chame (2,710m/8,891ft), Pisang (3,300m/10824ft), Manang (3,500m/11,482ft), Yak Kharka (4,110m/13,484ft), Thorong Phedi (4420m/14501ft), Thorong La Pass (5416m/17764ft), Muktinath (3,800/12,467ft) from where you will drive to Jomsom (2,700m) and on finally on to Pokhara (8,50m). The final leg of this adventure sees us drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,350m). On the trek we will set aside a day at Manang to better acclimatize and prepare before heading to Thorong La Pass, the highest altitude reached on the trek.
Sherpa Expedition And Trekking Teams will assist with permits, meals and accommodation on the trek.
ITINERARY
Day 1 : Arrival at Kathmandu and transfer to Hotel 1,350 meters.
A representative from Sherpa Expedition & Trekking will meet you at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport and drive you to your hotel. On arrival at your hotel, and after check-in, there will be a briefing regarding your Annapurna Circuit With Tilicho Lake Trek. Our representative will provide you with a route map and other useful information, such as lodges where we stay and some do’s and don’ts.
Day 2 : Drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani (1960m) Duration: 8-9 hours.
A long drive will take us to where our trekking begins. This is an opportune time to sit back, relax, and take in the sights of the changing countryside; rivers, terraced rice fields and views of the stunning Himalayas. Tonight we will stay at a guesthouse.
Day 3 : Trek to Chame (2,710m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
From Dharapani we continue to the village of Danaque before climbing to Tamang Village (unique stone houses and slate roofs) where we are offered magnificent views of Manaslu (8163m), Annapurna and other towering peaks. Our trek takes us through several Tibetan villages, such as trek Thanchowk, Koto before reaching our destination, Chame. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included.
Day 4 : Trek to Pisang (3,115 m/10,200 ft) Duration: 4-5 hours.
After leaving Chame we head to the village of Telekhu and on the trail have some magnificent views of the Annapurna Ranges and Mt. Pisang (6091m). Further along the trail, we have to re-cross a suspension bridge to the south side of the Marsyangdi River and then ascend and pass through a pine forest and into the upper reaches of the Manang Valley before coming to Pisang.
Day 5 : Trek to Manang (3540 m/11,300ft) Duration: 6-7 hours.
Pisang is the beginning of our trek into the upper Manang area. Today we follow a trail to Braga; a Tibetan village with its unique architecture and houses constructed one upon the other. One of Manang’s main attractions is its Gompa (Buddhist temple), being the biggest in the Manang region. Manang is also very popular with trekkers who stay here in order to acclimatize before heading higher.
Day 6 : Acclimatization day at Manang.
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 7 : Trek from Manang to Tilicho Base Camp (4150m). Duration: 5-6 hours.
Leaving Manang we pass the village of Khangsar, an unusual village with its unique houses (stone) and culture. The trail follows the ridge before it reaches Khangsar (3734m). The village offers a rare view of the obscure Kang Guru Peak (6981m).
Day 8 : Hike to Tilicho Lake (4920m) & return to base camp & trek to Shree Kharka; Duration:7-8 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 9 : Trek from Siri Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4500m) Duration: 7-8 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 then after 3 hour walk to reach Thorong Phedi. Guesthouse accommodation. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
Day 10 : Trek from Thorong Pedi via Thorong La Pass (5,416m) to Muktinath (3,802m) 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 eye-catching peak of Khatungkang (6484m). Leaving the pass we descend around 1600 metres and the brilliant Dhaulagiri (Dhavali 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 11 : Drive from Muktinath to Tatopani (1,300m) Duration: 5-6 hours.
Our day begins in the morning with a jeep ride to Jomsom that should take us about 1.5 hours. At Jomsom, there is an Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) checkpoint. At Jomsom, we take another jeep or bus to Ghasa Village via several other villages, such as Marpha (apple growing district). At Ghasa we again change vehicles in order to reach Tatopani (meaning hot water in Nepali). After arriving at Tatopani we will check in to our guesthouse and then head for the hot springs and wash away any aches and pains – and dust too! Breakfast, lunch & dinner are included.
Day 12 : Trek from Totopani to Ghorepani (2,870m) Duration: 7-8 hours.
With breakfast out of the way, we head to Ghorepani along a descending trail to the suspension bridge at the bottom. From here on, after crossing the bridge, it is all uphill passing small villages, terraced cultivated farms along the side of the hills, as well as a trek through a rhododendron forest. At one point on the trail, you will have an awesome view of Nilgiri South. The trail continues on to the rather small village of Ghara and an hour further down the track to Sikhar Village. If you stand at the highest point in the village you can look all the way back down the trail to Tatopani. Looking across to the opposite hills are other scattered villages. From Sikhar we continue on the trail until we reach Ghorepani where we will stay the night. Breakfast, lunch & dinner is included. Prior to reaching Ghorepani you will also get glimpses of Dhaulagiri and Tukuche peaks.
Day 13 : Hike to Poon Hill (3,210m), trek to Nayapul (1,000m) and Drive to Pokhara (850m) Duration: 7-8 hours.
An early morning start and we trek up to Poon hil to watch the sunrise, an eye-opening experience that will leave you breathless. As dawn approaches the change in colours will be a magical experience where you camera will go into overdrive! This has to be one of the best places, on any trek, to view the Annapurnas, Dhaulagiri and its many snow-capped peaks. This is an unforgettable experience and will give you photos to boast about! We then head back to Ghorepani for breakfast and after have a 5-hour trek downhill to Nayapul. The first leg of the trek down to Tikhedhunga is a very steep descent after which we pass terraced fields for several hours before reaching Nayapul, and then on to Pokhara for the night.
Day 14 : Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,400m) Duration: 6-7 hours.
With breakfast out of the way, we will drive back to Kathmandu which should take about six to seven hours with a few rest stops along the way. On the trip back to Kathmandu you may wish to consider other options, such as a trip to Chitwan National Park, a rafting adventure, scenic flight to Everest, mountain biking adventure, or guided shopping/scenic tour of Kathmandu. Tonight you have the luxury of hotel accommodation with breakfast included.
Day 15 : Transfer to the International Airport for your final departure.
Today Sherpa Expedition and Trekking will take you to the airport about 3 hours before your scheduled departure. On your flight home, you can daydream and imagine your next trip to Nepal and where you would like next to explore. Breakfast is included today.
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 Tourist bus
- One night hotel accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast
- Jomsom To Tatopani transportation by Bus or sharing jeep.
- Three meals a day (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek.
- Nayapul to Pokhara transportation by Private car
- 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, helpful Sherpa porters with proper safety equipment and walking equipment, his salary, food, accommodation, and insurance (one porter for two people).
- Assistant trekking guide for groups over 8 people 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).
- Comprehensive first aid medical kit carried by the guide / American medical association approved Oximeter
- 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.
- Assistant guide for groups of 8 or more people.
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). $30 USD for 15-day, $50 USD for 30 Days, and $125 USD for 90 Days 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 a challenging and scenic trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It combines the classic Annapurna Circuit Trek with a side trip to Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world.
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 9-12 days to complete the trek. This includes the trekking days and acclimatization/rest days.
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. However, the trek can be done throughout the year, with the exception of the monsoon season (June to August) when the trail can be muddy and prone to landslides.
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 days of trekking, steep ascents and descents, and high altitude. A high level of fitness and prior trekking experience are 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 located 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 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 customize the duration of the trek?
Yes, the duration of the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek can be customized based on your preferences and fitness level. It is advisable to consult with a trekking agency or guide to plan the itinerary according to your needs.
Latest Traveller’s Reviews
Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
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Based On 23 Reviews
Pamela Delanty Cruz
Ethiopia
November 27, 2023
An Unforgettable Trekking Experience
Our trek to Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek organized by Sherpa Expedition and Trekking was truly unforgettable. The trek was physically demanding, but the breathtaking views and the sense of accomplishment made it all worthwhile. Tilicho Lake was a sight to behold, with its turquoise waters reflecting the towering peaks of the Annapurna range. The team at Sherpa Expedition and Trekking were professional and attentive, ensuring that we had a safe and enjoyable trekking experience. It was an adventure we will cherish for a lifetime.
Paulette Grondin
Australia
November 15, 2023
15 Days Annapurna Circuit With Tilicho Lake Trek
We did the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek with Sherpa Expedition in November. My guide's name was Dendi Sherpa, he took good care of me. The trek really was amazing, the views were incredible and the teahouses very charming. Sometimes I had to pinch myself, because the surroundings felt so unreal, like if I was in a movie. It was a very special and a huge challenge. But I made it and I'm very proud and thankful.
Madeline Grosz
Austria
November 4, 2023
A Journey of a Lifetime
The Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek with Sherpa Expedition and Trekking was an adventure like no other. From the moment we embarked on the trek, we were greeted with stunning views of the Annapurna range that left us in awe. The trek was challenging but rewarding, and reaching Tilicho Lake was a moment of triumph. The team at Sherpa Expedition and Trekking made sure that we had everything we needed and provided us with exceptional service throughout the trek. It was truly a journey of a lifetime.
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