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Annapurna Circuit & Tilicho Lake Trek-18 Days

Annapurna Region

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Tour Code:

Duration

17 Nights/ 18 Days

Country

Nepal

Max. Altitude

5,416 M

Best Season

Mar-May/Sep- Nov

Group Size

Min 1-12 Pax

Accommodation

Hotel/Tea House

Difficult Difficulty

Difficulty

Difficult

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Transportation

Car/Flight/Tourist Bus

Start / End Point

Kathmandu

This trek of the Annapurna Circuit is a rewarding adventure for those who are seeking to explore the epic Himalayan trails of Nepal. This classic trek takes you to the breathtaking Thorung-La Pass, at 5,416 metres, for an unparalleled panoramic view of the snow-capped mountains of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs. In addition to this, you will visit Lake Tilicho, the highest lake in the world.

Starting from Jagat, you will ascend the trail along the Marshyangdi River. While the thrill of the journey will bring you excitement and awe, the wilderness will keep you mystified on the route.

Crossing lush terraced paddies and cascading waterfalls, you will easily overlook the fact that you are in fact travelling immersed in dense subtropical forests.

The ever-changing landscapes will continually captivate the senses; and the warm smile of the people will make your tiredness go away in an instant. The hospitality of the diverse ethnic communities you encounter along the way will add a significant cultural experience on the trek.

Nearing the end of the actual trek, you will reach the Thorung-La Pass, probably the most well-known high-altitude pass in the Annapurna Region. Nearing the pass, you will feel the exhaustion where each step will seem like lifting a stone. Tread slowly and with each breath you draw, your lungs will work at their maximum.

However, once you reach the top, the sense of achievement will overpower you. It will provide you both the exhilaration of conquering a challenging high-altitude pass and the privilege of gazing out at the Annapurna massif, Machhapuchchhre, and other majestic peaks far ahead. The sense of accomplishment is unparalleled and extremely joyous, before you decide to descend on the other side.

While descending into the arid landscapes on the way to Muktinath is a stark contrast, it will evoke feelings of serenity and wonder. Even at the sight of harsh landscapes and aridity of the environment, you will find a sense of beauty at this remote location of the world. En route, the apple orchards will provide a welcome burst of colour and temptation for weary trekkers.

Earlier on the route before coming to Thorung-La Pass, you will visit Lake Tilicho, in a remarkable journey of adventure and determination. The route to Tilicho is stunning, and the turquoise-coloured Tilicho Lake is a sight you will never forget in your life.

You will literally wonder about the definition of "pristine" while gazing hypnotically at the surface of the lake. Overwhelmed by its sheer beauty of the crystal clear waters, you will see the reflections of the nearby peaks surrounding it.

This alpine gem of a lake is difficult to reach but once you arrive here you will find the due rewards waiting in a moment of pure bliss. The religious significance of this lake as a sacred site adds a sense of spiritual awe to the experience. In an adventure that will test the limits of your endurance, you will bask in the consistent rewards of breathtaking mountain vistas of Annapurna.

Throughout the trek, you will be immersed in the vibrant cultures and traditions of the Annapurna Region. The winding trails will take you through picturesque villages with age-old lifestyles. Crossing the Thorung-La Pass and marvelling at the grandeur of Lake Tilicho, you will be left with an indelible impression of Nepal.

This transformative journey from Trek Me Nepal is a blend of physical, cultural, and spiritual elements into one. With the promise of a lifetime memory, an unforgettable Himalayan adventure awaits you in the Annapurna Region of Nepal.

  •   Experience the classic Annapurna Circuit trek through diverse landscapes — from charming villages and valleys to beautiful mountain peaks like Annapurna II, Dhaulagiri, and Fishtail.
  •   Trek to Tilicho Lake, the highest lake in the world, surrounded by stunning peaks.
  •   Explore the geographical beauty of the Annapurna massif, and cross the Thorung-La Pass (5,416 metres), testing every bit of your strength and stamina.
  •   Visit the pilgrimage site of Muktinath Temple and bathe in the ice-cold water of the glacial river coming out of 108 stone faucets.
  •   See the world’s deepest gorge, the Kali-Gandaki Gorge, have close-up views of serene lakes, glaciers, and majestic landscapes throughout the trek.
  •   Enjoy breathtaking views of peaks like Chulu-West, Tilicho, and chunks of the Annapurna range.
  •   Immerse in the Himalayan culture through interactions with locals, and see their traditional ways of rural life.
  •   Have a scenic winding drive to and from Kathmandu, through narrow hilly roads.

Explore Nepal’s Annapurna Circuit in 18 days: Kathmandu sightseeing, Manang acclimatization, Thorung-La Pass, Tilicho Lake, Muktinath Temple, and Jomsom-Pokhara flight.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Not Included

Once you arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport(TIA), you'll be received by our staff and transported to your hotel. After some rest and refreshments, we'll provide you a brief about your upcoming trek to Annapurna Region.

You will be shown the trekking permits for Annapurna and essential gear if any before heading on your epic mountain adventure.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast

A day sightseeing tour is a good thing to have, before beginning an exciting journey in the mountainous terrain. There are plenty of places to go in this capital city full of heritage.

Although it does not seem like it at first, mainly due to the chaotic traffic and the hullabaloo, there are gems of places hidden inside the valley. Take a vehicle of your choice and stay in the comfort of air-conditioning while you visit places of luxury and pampering.

You can go to a premium spa to prepare the muscles and relax, have a sumptuous lunch at a five-star hotel, or simply indulge in shopping. You can customise a day-trip with us as you see fit.

Kathmandu Valley has the biggest concentration of World Heritage Sites, and it's only fitting not to miss them while you're staying in the valley itself.

Max. Altitude

1,290 M

Accommodation

Tea House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Drive Duration

7-8 hrs

In the morning, begin a winding drive from Kathmandu to Besishahar, the gateway to Annapurna Circuit. For about eight hours you will see views of the Nepalese hilly terrain, including terraced paddies and countless valleys.

Except where the highway is under construction, the ride is comfortable. After a brief refreshment at Besishahar, you will take a shared jeep to Jagat.

Along the long winding way, you will enjoy the beauty of rivers, waterfalls, and villages. Spend the night at a teahouse in Jagat.

Max. Altitude

1,860 M

Hike Duration

6 hrs

Accommodation

Tea House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

As you begin your first day of the trek, you will head towards Dharapani. Walking out of Jagat, you will reach Chamje and cross a suspension bridge over Marsyangdi River. From there, the trail climbs steeply, offering stunning views of waterfalls, lush forests, and terraced fields.

Still going uphill, you will come to the village of Tal before reaching the larger village of Dharapani for the night. The trek today is around six hours — that includes going through rugged paths with frequent ascents and descents.

The day is challenging yet rewarding, with beautiful landscapes. Scenic views of local villages will keep you on the track. Dharapani, today's stopover, is a village at the convergence of Annapurna and Manaslu Circuits.

Max. Altitude

2,650 M

Hike Duration

6 hrs

Accommodation

Tea House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast you will begin the trek from Dharapani to Chame, a journey of about six hours. You will begin by descending through dense forest of pine and fir until you come to Bagarchhap.

From here you will do a steep climb to the hamlet of Danaque. As you trek along through several other villages you will have splendid views of Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, and Manaslu.

The route will begin to get colder, reflecting the change in altitude, and the transformation of landscape to alpine region — the change in climatic zones being the strong characteristic of Nepal's wonderful diversity.

Arriving in Chame, you will end the day with a well-deserved dinner and rest, enjoying breathtaking vistas of the Annapurna range.

Max. Altitude

3,300 M

Hike Duration

5-6 hrs

Accommodation

Tea House

Meals

Breakfastr, Lunch & Dinner

Today, you will set out on the challenging journey to Upper Pisang. The trail winds through pine and rhododendron forests, gradually ascending along the Marsyangdi River.

By midday, you will reach an expansive apple orchard. Lunch today will be at Dhikur Pokhari, with scenic views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak. With the thinning air, your stamina will be tested.

Crossing suspension bridges and navigating rocky terrain, you will push on. As the day grows, fatigue will begin to set in; and in the evening the trail brings you to Upper Pisang.

You'll arrive here exhausted, but will be exhilarated with the thought of food and rest at this picturesque village located right beneath the Annapurna range.

Max. Altitude

3,540 M

Hike Duration

6-7 hrs

Accommodation

Tea House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Wake up with the rising sun over Upper Pisang, and embark on the challenging journey to Manang. You will trek through a scenic route with a steep incline, making your muscles burn with exertion.

By mid-day, you'll have had many breathtaking views of the Annapurna Range and Lamjung Himal. Lush forests will have transformed to barren plains dotted with wildflowers.

Crossing suspension bridges, you will pass through crystal-clear lakes with reflections of snow-capped peaks. In the evening, you will see stacked houses and an ancient monastery.

Exhausted, you will reach Manang at night — and crash in a lodge after a quick dinner.

Accommodation

Tea House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

A day is set aside today for the purpose of acclimatisation. Before ascending further in the coming days, you will explore nearby villages, hike to the serene Gangapurna Lake, and enjoy its crisp, cool air.

For hardy trekkers, a more challenging adventure to the Ice Lake is waiting with its pristine views. This acclimatisation day is essential to prevent altitude sickness, as adjusting to higher altitudes is key to a safe trek.

In the evening, you will have an early dinner and go to bed.

Max. Altitude

4,060 M

Hike Duration

4-5 hrs

Accommodation

Tea House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast, your trek from Manang begins with a climb past the village, and immediately taking a higher route descending to the riverside. After crossing a suspension bridge and walking through lush pine forests, you will reach Khangsar after a couple of hours.

Khangsar is a Tibetan village, where you will have lunch and visit the ancient Tasab Gompa monastery. After a brief rest, you will continue on the trail that continues upward through a stark, sandy landscape to Shrikharka.

The trek is challenging, with a steep ascent above 4,000 metres. With potential high-altitude issues, you have to be careful and should stay hydrated. Despite the difficulties, you’re rewarded with breathtaking views of Chulu and other peaks before going to bed in a lodge.

Max. Altitude

4,100 M

Hike Duration

3-4 hrs

Accommodation

Tea House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

You begin the trek from Shrikharka, travelling through landslide-prone areas and rock formations. In this challenging path you will have stunning views of Tilicho Peak and surrounding snow-capped mountains.

As you ascend through barren terrain and cross streams, the trail becomes more steep and rocky, reaching a col at 4,970 metres. From there you will begin a gradual descent to Tilicho Base Camp at 4,150 metres.

The journey takes a little less than six hours, passing through grassy meadows and ancient monasteries. Trekkers have even sighted blue sheep.

Past the monasteries adorned with prayer flags, you will stay for the night in a teahouse amid strenuous trail and magnificent vistas of Tilicho Mountain.

Max. Altitude

4,060 M

Hike Duration

6 hrs

Accommodation

Tea House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

You begin after an early breakfast from Tilicho Base Camp. The challenging seven-hour trek to Tilicho Lake, is steep and rugged, winding through rocky terrain and offering stunning views of Lake Gangapurna, Tarkeghyang, and Khangsar Kang villages.

Lake Tilicho, surrounded by the majestic peaks of Tilicho Peak, Annapurna Range, and Mt. Nilgiri, is a breathtaking panoramic sight with its frozen, crystalline surface. The reflections of white peaks make the view more attractive.

Its significance is profound in Hinduism, mentioned in the Ramayan as a sacred site. After savouring nature’s beauty, we will descend back to Tilicho Base Camp, where we will have a brief rest before continuing to Shrikharka.

The route winds through a suspension bridge, forests, and hamlets, before arriving at the village for the night.

Max. Altitude

4,020 M

Hike Duration

6 hrs

Accommodation

Tea Houe

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

The trek today begins with a descent through picturesque landscapes and ancient monasteries. First you will cross a river via an ancient-looking bridge and then ascend to a plateau-like landscape.

As you journey on, you will cross the tranquil village of Khangsar and the historic Tare Gumba, a monastery with historical significance. After a brief rest here you will continue on the trail across a stream and a Mani wall, with captivating views of the Annapurna and Gangapurna ranges.

Reaching Yak Kharka, at 4,110 metres, you are greeted by expansive pastures dotted with grazing yaks — with majestic peaks of the Annapurna Range.

The route to Yak Kharka is challenging but once you reach here, you will spend the night in a lodge with warm food and comfortable bed.

Max. Altitude

4,450 M

Hike Duration

4 hrs

Accommodation

Tea House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Begin your trek from Yak Kharka early in the morning, headed towards Thorung Phedi. You will cross a historic Mani wall and pass through the village of Ledar. From there, the trail ascends steadily through a rocky and arid landscape.

As we climb you might encounter challenging weather and face increasing altitude, which will make the trek feel more strenuous and tiring. After three hours, you can opt to stop at Thorung Phedi or continue for an additional hour to reach Thorung High Camp.

Wherever you stay, you will have stunning views of Chulu West, Mt. Gangapurna, and Thorung Peak. The terrain becomes harsher and less populated, so maintaining a steady pace and staying hydrated is crucial.

Today you will rest well to prepare for crossing the Thorung-La pass tomorrow.

Max. Altitude

3,800 M

Hike Duration

7-8 hrs

Accommodation

Tea House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today’s challenging trek is a remarkable journey from Thorung Phedi to Muktinath. You will start by climbing steeply to Thorung-La Pass, at 5,416 metres. The path is challenging, with strong winds and thin air testing your endurance, but the spectacular views make it worthwhile.

From the pass, you’ll see the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, along with the Nilgiri and other majestic peaks. Spend some time at this pass and capture images and videos. The descent is long but an easy one.

Now that the hardest part of the trek is over, you will be heading through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the world’s deepest gorge, to arrive at the sacred site of Muktinath Temple.

Muktinath is a revered destination for Hindus and Buddhists. It has a temple with 108 holy water sprouts, and a sacred continual flame at the Jwalamai temple.

This remote and tranquil site is believed to cleanse one of their past sins. After the trek, you will hop in a lodge in Muktinath and celebrate the day’s achievements.

Max. Altitude

2,700 M

Accommodation

Tea House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch

Drive Duration

7-8 Hours

After breakfast, embark on a picturesque drive from Muktinath to Pokhara. Leaving the sacred temple behind, the route follows the Kali Gandaki River Valley, renowned for its dramatic landscapes, deep gorges, and striking Himalayan vistas.

Along the way, you will pass through Mustang’s cultural hubs like Kagbeni and Jomsom, which reflect the region’s rich traditions. Charming villages such as Marpha, Tatopani, and Beni offer glimpses of waterfalls, rugged cliffs, and the changing scenery as you descend from the high trans-Himalayan terrain to the lush hills below.

This drive provides a final opportunity to admire the towering Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges while traveling alongside the Kali Gandaki, one of the world’s deepest gorges. Arrive in Pokhara by evening, where you can unwind by the tranquil lakeside and settle in for an overnight stay at your hotel.

Accommodation

Hotel

After breakfast, enjoy a full day to explore Pokhara at your own pace. Known for its serene lakes, stunning mountain views, and peaceful atmosphere, Pokhara offers plenty of options to relax and soak in its natural beauty.

Stroll along Phewa Lake or take a boat ride on its calm waters. Discover Davis Falls, a striking waterfall that vanishes into an underground tunnel, and visit the nearby Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, a sacred site featuring a temple inside. For panoramic vistas of the city and surrounding peaks, hike up (or drive to) the World Peace Pagoda perched atop a hill.

Other options include exploring local culture at the Bindhyabasini Temple, browsing handicrafts at the city markets, or visiting the International Mountain Museum. Enjoy lakeside cafes and restaurants, sampling local Nepali cuisine, or simply relax and absorb the laid-back vibe of this charming town.

Additional Note:

  • This day is for independent exploration; no guided tour is included.
  • An optional guided tour of Pokhara is available at an additional cost for those who prefer professional guidance.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Drive Duration

6-7 Hours

After breakfast, start your return journey to Kathmandu. You can either enjoy a scenic drive of about 6-8 hours through hills, rivers, and rural landscapes, or opt for a short 25-minute flight for an additional cost, allowing more time in Kathmandu.

Upon arrival, spend the afternoon exploring Thamel Bazaar or other local attractions at your own pace. In the evening, gather for a farewell dinner to celebrate the completion of your Annapurna Circuit trek and share memories from your adventure.

Additional Note:

  • Flight option incurs extra cost.
  • Afternoon is free for self-exploration; no guided tour is included.
  • A guided city tour of Kathmandu is available at an additional cost for those interested.

Meals

Breakfast

After breakfast or depending upon your flight schedule we will transfer you to the airport. As your plane takes off from the runway in Kathmandu, your journey to Nepal comes to an end for this time — until you decide to visit again for some memorable and soul-searching trip in the Himalayas.

Whats Included:

  •   We provide airport transfers using private tourist vehicles for both domestic and international flights.
  •   3 nights in Kathmandu and 1 night in Pokhara at a 3-star hotel with breakfast
  •   Highly experienced guide and porter, including their wages, food, accommodation, equipment, and insurance (1 porter for every 2 trekkers).
  •   Accommodation and meals consist of breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a cup of hot beverage in the morning and fresh seasonal fruits.
  •   We provide a duffel bag, down jacket, sleeping bag is provided to use during the trek.(If required)
  •   An assistant guide is provided for groups of 6 or more.
  •   A farewell dinner at a typical Nepalese restaurant is included.
  •   Emergency rescue operation assistance is available (covered by your travel insurance).
  •   First aid medical kit, Oximeter to check pulse, heart rate and oxygen saturation at higher altitude.
  •   Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and A Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card is required for trekking in Nepal.
  •   Private transportation from Kathmandu to Besisahar & Sharing Jeep to Jagat (trek starting point).
  •   A tourist deluxe bus from Pokhara-Kathmandu

Whats Excluded:

  •   Tipps for guide, porter & driver
  •   Personal expenses, medical kit and supplies
  •   International flights to and from Kathmandu
  •   Extra drinks (hot, cold, or alcoholic beverages)
  •   Optional activities beyond the described itinerary
  •   Any expenses not specifically mentioned in the package
  •   Any extra accommodation and meals in Kathmandu are not included
  •   Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu if the trip is incomplete due to personal reasons
  •   Facilities in mountain regions such as battery charging, hot showers, internet, and phone calls (unless provided free by tea houses)
  •   Nepal Entry Visa (Visa can be easily obtained upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, with a fee of: USD 50 for 30 days visa & USD 125 for 90 days visa)
Number of PAXPrice per PAX
1USD 1600
2 -4USD 1250
5 - 10USD 1150
11- 16USD 1100
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