Annapurna Circuit Trek via Tilicho Lake

Guide and Porters for the safety on 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.

Lodging and Healthy Meals at Annapurna circuit Trek via Tilicho Lake

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.

Travel Insurance  for a Safe Annapurna circuit Trek via Tilicho Lake

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.

Permits Required for the Annapurna circuit Trek via Tilicho Lake

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

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

The Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) is required by all travelers who are traveling to the Annapurna region. The cost of the permit is as follows:

1. For foreigners (non-SAARC countries): NPR 3,000 per head
2. For SAARC nationals: NPR 1,000 per head
3. For Nepali: NPR 100 per head

You can obtain the ACAP permit from:

• Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) Office in Kathmandu or Pokhara
• Checkpoint at entry points of the Annapurna region

Guide and Porters for the safety on Guide and Porters for the safety on

While the Annapurna circuit can be done independently, it’s helpful to hire local guides or porter. Porter will carry up to 10 kg or 15 kg per client. If you wish , you may keep your clothing and  items in a storage on room where you are stay on Kathmandu hotel. 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.

Altitude Sickness during the trek

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.

Preventing Altitude Sickness (AMS):

• Rest Well: Ensure that you rest well before starting your trek.
• Stay Hydrated: Continue drinking plenty of water during the journey.
• Balanced Nutrition: Maintain the balance of salt and sugar through proper eating habits and not skipping meals.
• Keep Warm: Layer up to remain warm without profuse sweating.
• Controlled Breathing: Breathe deeply and steadily from your diaphragm to maximize lung capacity. Maintain a comfortable walking speed that will allow for controlled breathing. Nasal breathing avoids drying your throat—wearing a muff or scarf in high altitudes might be of use.
• Pace Yourself: It’s not a competition. Pace yourself with a maintainable and Server consistent pace instead of exhausting yourself too early and taking many rest stops. Stop and admire the stunning views.

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.

What to expect on the Annapurna Circuit trek via Tilicho Lake?

The Annapurna Circuit via Tilicho Lake boasts some of the most spectacular and varied landscapes Nepal has to offer. While making your way through this region, ever changin panoramas take you through lush, subtropical forests, cascading waterfalls, and terraced farmland of the lower valleys to high-altitude, alpine deserts and dramatic mountain landscapes. It presents the beautiful scenery of the Annapurna Massif, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Tilicho Peak, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Gangapurna along with other tall peaks. The highlight of the trek is Tilicho Lake at 4,919 meters, one of the highest-altitude lakes in the world, which is simply an awe-inspiring scene in turquoise blue against the backdrop of snow-clad mountains. This trek culminates with the beautiful Thorong La Pass, 5,416 meters high, presenting one-of-a-kind panoramic views into the heart of the Himalayas and finally dropping into the Kali Gandaki Valley.

Annapurna Circuit trek provides cultural experiences in great detail, isn’t it?

Yes, it is; besides the Himalayas, there are profound roots attached to the trek with rich culture inherited from people dwelling across this area. You get to pass by villages inhabited by various ethnic tribes like Gurung, Magar, Thakali, and Tibetan-influenced people with their own culture, traditions, and way of living. In this trekking route, you will get the chance to observe Buddhist practices, prayer flags, and spinning wheels. Visiting the monasteries, chortens, and mani walls along the trail gives great insight into the deeply rooted spiritual life of the people. The village of Manang has a dominant culture influenced by Tibetan Buddhists, while the lower Mustang zone shows a strong influence by Thakali, allowing trekkers to enjoy rich and immersive cultural exposure.

Is it possible to learn about Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) at the Himalayan Rescue Association?

Yes, trekkers can get information on AMS and its prevention at the Himalayan Rescue Association in Manang. HRA conducts daily awareness sessions on altitude sickness, which is highly recommended for trekkers who will be crossing Thorong La Pass or visiting Tilicho Lake. Symptoms of AMS, such as headache, nausea, and dizziness; its prevention by proper acclimatization, hydration, and slow ascend; and its treatment will be discussed. HRA also provides trekkers with medical consultations regarding altitude-related problems. Learning beforehand about AMS contributes to an easier and more enjoyable trek.

Braga Monastery and the lifestyle of monks 

Braga Monastery, situated just before the village of Manang, is one of the oldest and most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the Annapurna region. Perched on the side of a rocky hill, this monastery dates back over 500 years and features stunning ancient murals, Buddhist scriptures, and a giant Buddha statue. It offers an excellent opportunity for trekkers to observe the monastic way of life and gain insight into Tibetan Buddhism. The monks here lead very spiritual lifestyles that include meditation, prayers, and daily rituals. The monastery also offers a serene environment for the best contemplation and learning about Buddhist traditions.

Scenic does the Annapurna region appear during the trek

The Annapurna Circuit is amongst the most scenic treks on this earth due to its ever-changing scenery. Trekkers start with lush, green valleys with terraced fields, dense rhododendron forests, and gushing rivers. With the gain in altitude, the scenery slowly changes into rocky cliffs, dry alpine meadows, and glacial moraines. You can get great views from the Marsyangdi River Valley, while the route to Tilicho Lake is very dramatic with high cliffs and landslide sections. Once you cross the Thorong La Pass, the landscape changes drastically into the arid, desert-like Mustang, which resembles a lot of the Tibetan plateau. It becomes once-in-a lifetime due to the change in landscape throughout the trek.

Parken Gompa worth it as a side trip?

Yes, Parken Gompa is less known but one of the very rewarding side trips of the Annapurna Circuit. Situated near Manang, this ancient monastery is a quiet and spiritual retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the main trail. This monastery is filled with Buddhist monks who welcome guests for meditation and prayer sessions. From Parken Gompa, the views are superb, and this is a tranquil spot with snow peaks behind. For many trekkers, a visit to this monastery is peaceful and enriching; hence, this is one of the unexplored treasures.