| Trip code | |
| Package name | Annapurna Circuit Trek via Tilicho Lake |
| Duration | 23 |
| Max. elevation | 5416 m |
| Level | ADVANCE |
| Transportation | Local bus fare to Besisahar and Nayapool to Pokhara by private car and Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist Bus. |
| Accomodation |
Stay at selected tea house |
| Starts at | Kathmandu |
| Ends at | Kathmandu |
| Trip route | Kathmandu, Besishar, Chame, Manang, Tilicho lake, Throng-La pass 5416 m and Muktinath, Jomsom to Pokhara. |
| Cost | USD 0 per person |
Annapurna circuit trek via Tilicho Lake
Annapurna circuit trek via Tilicho Lake is rewarding and strenuous trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal that combines two exciting trekking experiences, the classic Annapurna circuit and a side trip to one of the world highest Tilicho Lake. This journey takes you through eye-catching landscapes, including lush green rhododendron forests, beautiful traditional villages, deep valleys, high mountain passes, providing an opportunity to experience the unique culture of the various ethnic groups.
One of the major highlight of this trek is the Tilicho Lake which is stunning high - altitude Lake lies in the Manang district of Nepal. It is one of the highest Lakes in the world, formed by the glacial melt of the northern slope of Annapurna Mountain and Thorong peak at an elevation of 4919 m (16138 feet) above sea level. The lake is 85 m deep and is surrounded by high mountains Muktinath peak, Nilgiri, Khangsae and Tilicho. According to Nepali Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (2003), any aquatic organism has never been recorded in the lake.
The lake holds both spiritual and cultural significance for the local people and considered a holy site. It is believed that the lake is the ancient Kak Bhusundi Lake mentioned in the epic Ramayan. During certain religious festivals, Hindu people around the world and pilgrims gather in Tilicho Lake to take holy baths, perform rituals, and pay their respects.
The another key point of the Annapurna circuit is crossing the Thorong La Pass, which stands at an altitude of 5416 m (17769 feet) above sea level. As you ascend towards the pass, you will proceeds through various climatic zones, including lush green valleys, arid deserts, and alpine meadows. The final ascent to the pass is challenging due to thin air and the high altitude, but conquering the pass provides a sense of achievement and truly rewarding. The pass offers breathtaking views of majestic snow- capped peaks and thrilling experience.
Overall, the Annapurna circuit trek via Tilicho Lake is an adventure- filled journey, crossing rivers, traversing terrains, and passing through rugged mountain trails. The trek allows you to explore more than dozen of glorious mountains such as, Mount Annapurna Ⅰ(8091 m), Annapurna Ⅱ (7937 m), Annapurna Ⅲ (7555 m), Annapurna Ⅳ (7525 m), Annapurna south (7219 m), Mount Dhaulagiri (8167 m), Mount Manaslu (8163 m), Mount Machhapuchhare (Fish tail 6998 m), Mount Nilgiri (7041 m), Tukuche peak (6920 m) and many others. Similarly, as you ascend to the highlands, you might encounter high-altitude animals like snow leopards, blue sheep, and yaks. Therefore, it can be a great choice for those trekkers who are seeking outdoor challenges and adrenaline- pumping activities.
1) Lodging and foods
The trail to Annapurna circuit is well – served with teahouses and lodges, providing accommodation and meals for trekkers. You can generally find basic but comfortable lodging and a variety of food options ranging from local Nepali dishes to International cuisines.
2) Travel Insurance
Any trek in Nepal, including the Annapurna circuit Trek via Tilicho Lake, needs travel insurance. The trek includes high-altitude trekking, which may be physically challenging and dangerous. Travel insurance can cover you financially in the event of an accident, a medical emergency, a flight cancellation or delay, or lost or stolen luggage. When buying travel insurance for the Annapurna circuit trek, ensure that it covers high- altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation.
3) Permits
To trek in the Annapurna region, you will need two main permits:
1) The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
2) The Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card
4) Guide and Porter
While the Annapurna circuit can be done independently, it’s helpful to hire local guides or porter. They can provide you valuable insights into the local culture, traditions, and history of the Annapurna region. They can explain the significance of monasteries, festivals, and other cultural aspects you encounter along the way.
Moreover, they are familiar with the trail conditions and alternate routes. Similarly a porter carries your heavy backpack, and allowing you to trek with a lighter load. Therefore, you can join Nepal holiday treks and tours Pvt. Ltd. for hiring a highly experienced, helpful, friendly, and English speaking, licensed trekking guide and porter with their insurance.
5) Altitude Sickness
Generally altitude sickness occurs when you travel to a high altitude too quickly. Headache, nausea, tiredness etc are the symptoms occur when your body tries to adjust to the lower air pressure and lower oxygen levels at high altitudes. When it comes to this illness, one should be pro-active and notify the guide as soon as possible.
6) Best time to trek
The best time to undertake the Annapurna circuit trek via Tilicho Lake is during the spring (March- May) and autum (September- November) seasons. The temperatures are mild, the weather is relatively unchanged, the clear skies provide astonishing mountain views, and the day time walking temperature are also the most pleasant. In winter the Lake will freeze and it will snow.
We on the first day of our trip will be taking local bus to BesiSahar.
Our very first trek through trail way will be to Syange (1100m). We have easy path however a bit long trail to take on this day.
Today we shall cross the first suspension bridge over the Marshyandi River and encounter the beautiful, tall and gorgeous waterfall. We then follow the river to the stone village of Jagat (1300m) before climbing through the forest to Chamje at 1400 meters. And finally to Taal (1700m), the very first village to Manang district.
Chame is the head quarter to Manang District. We can also enjoy the hot spring in Chame and we have the views of the Himalayas including Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV (7,525m).
A steep and narrow path through a very dense forest will bring us to the dramatic curved rock face, rising 1500m from the river. This is probably the steepest part of the Marshyangdi Valley, so steep that the trail is carved into the vertical rock. After passing this last bit of rock, the valley opens up with majestic vistas. And right where the valley widens stands the PaungdaDanda, a massive sloping rock face that rises over 1500m above the trail. We trek for a while before reaching Lower Pissang where we spend the night.
Today we have two routes to Manang, one that takesus to the trail up to Upper Pisang via Ghyaru. This trail has the excellent views of the beautiful landscape and the mighty mountains mount Annapurna and Pissang (6091m). And the other one goes down to southern route of Marshyandi River by Hongde with its airstrip that involves lesser climbing comparatively to Northern route. The choice is yours, since we meet up at Munchi whichever route we take. We shall be noticing a contrast in the landscapeand vegetation from today onwards. The cold and dry climate also creates a much harsher environment.
We need to stay fit for our next day trip so, on this day also we shall be doing continuous day walks and capture the magnificent views around the village. We have the option to go for a hike to Gangapurna Lake or Braga village and visit the oldest BrakaGumba.
Today we are trekking to SiriKharka, route way to Tillicho Lake. On the way to our destination we will be seeing the beautiful village fully influenced with the old Tibetan life style which is also known as the last village of Nepal. We shall be passing by few gompas including ThareGompa just before SiriKharka.
Today we shall be trekking towards Tillicho Base Camp (4150m). The path is covered with small crystals and shrubs on both side of the trail that follows to juniper and sea buckthorn bushes. Some places along the trail we even get to cross a few streams.Our main goal for the day isTillicho Lake (4920m), other than that we have outstanding view of Tarkeghyang, Gangapurna and the Khangsar Kang and last but not least for the day is a wonderful sunset. It presents a dramatic spectacle reflection of the surrounding peaks however it is frozen solid most of the season. After spending the wonderful time at Tillicho Lake, we shall follow the trail back to Tillicho Base Camp.
Today we will be heading towards Yak Kharka (4050m) catching up the route to old Khangsar. And following the unmarked path just above us we meet at the tea shop just between Ghunsang and Yak Kharka. And we now follow the way to Yak Kharka.
Today we have an upward following trail to Throng Phedi (4525m). On the way we will be seeing one of the best views of Mt. Gundang, Mt. Syagang, Thorung Peak and Mt. Khatungkan. We shall be taking rest in either Throng Phedi or at the High Camp.
Crossing Throng la pass is our main goal for the day so we are waking up early in the morning and walk ahead with the lights on. After making through Throng La pass we shall reach in Muktinath (3760m) in a few hours of walk. It is believed that all our sorrows and pain are relieved when visiting this very temple. The place is surrounded with several other monasteries as well.
Since we are on the other side of Manang most of the land we see will bedry and looks somewhat like the desert. We will continue our trek walking by the bank of KaliGandi River. Most of the time, we will descend with closer view of stupas and really old traditional house and civilization of Mustang.
Descending from Kagbeni village we reach Marpha. The barren landscape of this area resembles Tibet. Marpha is also famous as the apple in Nepal where one can enjoy different items made from apple like apple pie, and wines. Apple Brandy is another local specialty that we may be lucky enough to taste.
We pass through the valley following the Kali Gandaki River. On this trail, we will have the opportunity to view Annapurna I (8091m) and beautiful landscapes.
On this day we will be trekking through the traditional village of the ethnic Thakali people. Also we will be seeing panoramic views of Dhaulagari, Tukuche, Nilgiri, Fang and Annapurna I mountains. And in our surroundings will be lots and lots of apple garden.
We will keep passing on by the beautiful villages on our way. Ghasa (2010m) is another beautiful valley we are taking rest at.
We will continue beating our feet towards Tatopani (1190m). On our way
we will emerge into subtropical forests, lush with vegetation and see
power house that supply regular electricity in this area. In the end
reaching Tatopani we get to relax in hot water.
The trek today leads through the rhododendron forests with a terraced farmland surrounded with glowing mountains.
Today we have early morning sunrise to catch up at Poon hill (3193m). From here we will be able to get a close up look at most of the mountains including Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. After taking few photos and sight-seeing of the mountains we head back to Ghorepani and then head towards Tadapani.
Our trip today will be in the lands of Rhododendron trees. In the time of this flower season the jungle fully turns into red valley covered with blooming Rhododendron and cherry blossoms. Just in few minutes of walk from the jungle is a Ghandruk (1940m), a Gurung residence.
Final day of the trail trip comes to an end at Nayapool (1070m) and soon after we take private Jeep to Pokhara and take accommodation in one of the fine hotel.
Rest day at kathmandu and sightseeing in kathmandu. can visit thamel, and old heritage place and get relax in kathmandu.
And early in the morning we take tourist bus to Kathmandu.