Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake

Detail About Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake

Annapurna circuit trek with Tilicho lake is the extended version of the famous Annapurna circuit trek. This package takes you to one of the highest lakes in the world, Tilicho Lake, at 4,919 meters (16,138 ft), before crossing the highest mountain pass in Nepal, Thorong La, at 5,416 meters (17,769 ft). Annapurna circuit Tilicho lake trek is a true adventurous venture in the Annapurna region with lots of challenges and equally rewarding landscapes.

This trek is for experienced trekkers who want to discover the hidden wonders of the highlands. The Annapurna circuit with Tilicho lake trek begins from Besisahar (760 m/2,492 ft) and ends at Nayapul (1,070 m/3,510 ft). You will be detouring the tenth-highest mountain in the world, Annapurna (8,091 m/26,545 ft), during the trek. To make the trek even more adventurous, add the Annapurna base camp hike to the itinerary.

The Annapurna circuit trek with Tilicho lake follows the trail inside the Annapurna Conservation Area. This 18 days trek is a lifetime venture that will take you across ancient Nepali heritage, unique mountain lifestyle and outstanding western Himalayas. On the way from Muktinath to Tatopani, you will be traveling in the Lower Mustang region and reenter the Annapurna region from Tatopani onwards.

Trekking through the lush rhododendron forests and picturesque villages, you will walk on a glacier and avalanche/landslide debris to Tilicho. The trail then continues via pastures and steeply ascends along rocky tracks to Thorong La (5,416 m/17,756 ft). You will descend to Muktinath (3,760 m/12,623 ft) & follow the Kali Gandaki gorge and drive down to Tatopani, from where the trek continues through beautiful villages like Tatopani (1,190 m/3,940 ft) and Ghorepani (2,860 m/9,385 ft) to Nayapul, the ending point of the trek.

The Annapurna circuit trek with Tilicho lake offers some of the most stunning mountain panoramas of Annapurna I (8,091 m/26,545 ft), Annapurna II (7,937 m/26,040 ft), Annapurna South (7,219 m/23,684 ft), Dhaulagiri (8,167 m/26,795 ft), Manaslu (8,163 m/26,781 ft), Tilicho Peak ( 7,134 m/23,406 ft), Nilgiri (7,061 m/23,166 ft), Hiunchuli (6,441 m/21,132 ft), Gangapurna (7,455 m/24,459 ft), Fishtail (6,993 m/22,943 ft), Tukuche (6920 m/22,703 ft), Dhampus Peak (6,012 m/19,724 ft), and numerous others.

In terms of landscapes, the trek offers diverse views throughout the journey. You will be touching the viewpoints like Thorong La and Poon Hill (3,210 m/10,525 ft) during the trek. The trail from Pisang (3,115 m/10,200 ft) to Manang (3,540 m/11,300 ft) village is extremely scenic. Likewise, during the acclimatization hike in Manang, you will hike to Gangapurna base camp and Ice Lake, which also offers breathtaking scenery.

Natives and their cultural heritage along the Annapurna circuit and Tilicho lake trail

Annapurna circuit and Tilicho lake trail touch many villages. On this trek, you will meet with communities like Gurung, Magar, Ghale, Thakali, etc. These are some of the indigenous groups residing in the villages along the trail. With distinct traditions, languages, beliefs, and norms, all of these communities offer you an overlook of a diverse cultural heritage.

You will get to see both Hindu and Buddhist religions. The trail has stupas, temples, and shrines scattered. Every noteworthy landmark is decorated with colorful prayer flags. The lives of the locals in the mountains are very different from what you are used to in the city. People here live with limited modern convenience and are profoundly connected to nature and their ancient roots.

Annapurna Circuit or Manaslu Circuit trek, which is better?

Annapurna circuit trek and Manaslu circuit trek are the two most famous and loved trekking routes in Nepal. Both treks cross high-altitude passes and explore remote areas. Annapurna circuit is more on the commercialized side than the Manaslu circuit. The crowd in the peak season is huge on the Annapurna circuit trail than on the Manaslu circuit trail.

You have to get an expensive restricted area permit to do the Manaslu circuit trek. Likewise, the tourist infrastructure on the Manaslu circuit is way poorer than the Annapurna circuit. In terms of terrain, the Manaslu circuit is a bit more strenuous than the Annapurna circuit. If you have to choose between these two treks, then we recommend doing the Annapurna circuit trek before the Manaslu circuit trekking.

Both of these treks are best in Nepal and are a must-do!

Why should you do this 18 days Annapurna circuit trek with Tilicho lake?

There are many reasons that make this 18 days Annapurna circuit trek with Tilicho lake a fantastic trek in Nepal. From the trek experience to the people you will meet, and all the adventure, pushing yourself every day, and mountain landscapes make it an incredible trek.

Major attractions of Annapurna circuit and Tilicho lake trekking

Kathmandu

Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that is home to a rich cultural heritage. The city is known for its temples, palaces, and ancient monuments, including the UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple.

In Kathmandu, visitors can explore the city's bustling markets, sample local cuisine, and witness traditional religious ceremonies and festivals. The city also offers a range of museums, galleries, and cultural centers, where visitors can learn about Nepal's history and traditions.

Manang village

Manang is a picturesque village located in the Manang district of Nepal. It is situated at an altitude of 3,519 meters above sea level. The village is surrounded by towering snow-capped mountains, including Annapurna, Gangapurna, and Tilicho.

The Manang village is known for its unique architecture, with many traditional stone houses featuring intricate wood carvings and brightly colored prayer flags.

Visitors can explore nearby glaciers, lakes, and rivers, as well as trekking routes that lead to remote mountain villages. One of the most popular attractions in this village is the ancient Manang Monastery, which dates back to the 14th century.

Tilicho Lake

Tilicho Lake is a high-altitude lake located in a remote and pristine wilderness area only accessible on foot at an elevation of 4,919 meters. It is the second-highest lake in Nepal. The lake is fed by snow and glaciers from the surrounding Annapurna mountain range and is known for its stunning turquoise-blue color.

The Tilicho lake also holds cultural significance to the local people. It is considered a sacred site by both Hindu and Buddhist communities and is believed to be a gateway to the spiritual world. Many pilgrims make the journey to Tilicho Lake each year to offer prayers and offerings at the lake.

Thorong La pass

Situated at an elevation of 5,416 meters above sea level, Thorong La is the highest mountain pass in Nepal. The pass connects the Annapurna region with the Lower Mustang region. The trail to the top of Thorong La pass is challenging and requires a high level of physical fitness and endurance, as it involves steep climbs, rough terrain, and extreme weather conditions.

Despite the difficulty of the journey, the views from Thorong La pass are truly breathtaking. From the top of the pass, trekkers can see panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu. The pass is also an important cultural landmark, as it is home to several sacred shrines and monuments.

Muktinath Temple

Muktinath Temple is a sacred Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage site at 3,710 meters. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the Hindu tradition and to Chenrezig, the Buddha of compassion, in the Buddhist tradition. It is believed to be a place of great spiritual power, and many pilgrims make the journey to the temple to offer prayers, make offerings, and seek blessings.

The temple complex includes several buildings and shrines, as well as a natural spring that is believed to have healing properties. Pilgrims can take a ritual bath in the spring, which is said to purify the body and soul.

Tatopani

Tatopani is situated at an altitude of 1,200 meters. It is a popular destination among trekkers who want to relax and soak in the natural hot springs. The name Tatopani means "hot water" in Nepali. It refers to the natural hot springs that flow through the village. The water in the hot springs is said to have soothing properties, and many visitors come to the village to soak in the warm waters and relax after a long trek or hike.

Ghorepani and Poon Hill

Ghorepani and Poon Hill are two popular destinations located in the Annapurna region. Ghorepani is a small village situated at an altitude of 2,874 meters, while Poon Hill is a viewpoint located nearby Ghorepani village at an elevation of 3,210 meters.

The area is famous for its stunning natural beauty, with breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. It is also home to several ethnic communities, including the Gurung and Magar people, who have preserved their unique cultures and traditions.

Both Ghorepani village and Poon Hill offer breathtaking mountain views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Tukuche, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, Dhampus Peak, Fishtail, etc. Likewise, the sunrise from Poon Hill is also very beautiful.

Pokhara

Pokhara is a laid-back lakeside city located in the western region of Nepal. The city is known for its stunning natural beauty, with the picturesque Phewa Lake, towering mountains, and lush forests providing a stunning backdrop.

Pokhara is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with a range of activities available, including trekking, paragliding, and white-water rafting. Visitors can also explore the town's many cafes, restaurants, and shops or simply relax and soak in the natural beauty of the area. Similarly, are lakes, caves, waterfalls, and viewpoints to explore around this city.

Annapurna circuit and Tilicho lake location

The Annapurna Circuit trek is located in the Annapurna region of Nepal, which is situated in the western part of the country.

Tilicho Lake is located in the Manang district of Nepal, in the Annapurna region of the Himalayas. It is situated at an altitude of 4,919 meters (16,138 ft) above sea level, making it one of the highest lakes in the world.

The lake is fed by the glacial meltwater from the surrounding mountains, including Tilicho Peak (7,134 m) and Nilgiri Peak (7,061 m). It is located on the north side of the Annapurna massif, which is a subrange of the Himalayas in north-central Nepal.

Annapurna circuit trek with Tilicho lake distance & terrain

The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake covers a distance of around 230 km (143 miles) over a period of 16 to 21 days. The trek starts from Besisahar, a small town in the Lamjung district of Nepal, and follows a circular route through the Annapurna Conservation Area.

The terrain of the trek varies from lush subtropical forests to high-altitude deserts, offering a diverse and stunningly beautiful experience. The trek initially follows the Marsyangdi River valley and passes through traditional Gurung and Tamang villages, offering an insight into the local culture and way of life.

You will further ascend to the high-altitude desert of Manang, where you can acclimatize and explore the local culture and traditions. From Manang, the trail ascends towards Tilicho Lake. After visiting Tilicho Lake, the trail rejoins the Annapurna Circuit Trek and passes through Thorong La Pass.

The trail then descends to Muktinath, and you will drive through the Kali Gandaki River valley and the picturesque villages of Jomsom and Marpha to Tatopani. From here, trekking through dense forests, drop down to Nayapul, where the trek ends.

How to do the Annapurna circuit and Tilicho lake trek in Nepal?

To do this adventurous trek, first research the trek, the difficulty it poses, and whether you are ready for it or not. If you want to do this trek but are not sure about it, then get in touch with our team, and we will answer your questions and help you find the best trek that will suit your fitness and interest.

Once you are ready to book the trek, click on the booking button on our Annapurna circuit trek with Tilicho lake package page and fill in the information. Do the advance booking payment and wait for the trip confirmation mail.

After you receive a trip confirmation mail from us, you can begin preparing for the trek. Book the international flight tickets as per the departure date we will provide you, and buy travel insurance & trekking gear. One of our travel consultants will help you prepare for the trek and be in touch with you all the time to answer any of your questions.

*Note: We also take last minute bookings for the Annapurna circuit with Tilicho lake trekking.

Annapurna circuit trek with Tilicho lake preparation

To prepare for the Annapurna circuit with Tilicho lake trek, you need to get physically fit and arrange all the trekking equipment before the trek begins. It is a strenuous trek, so your fitness matters a lot. Below are the things you should do to prepare for this trek:

1. Physical fitness:  Start exercising and hiking regularly at least a few months before the trek to build endurance. Do cardio like swimming, cycling, or running to improve your stamina. Likewise, involve regular 5 to 6 hours of walking with a 5 kg backpack.
2. Meet your doctor: The trek involves reaching high altitudes, which can cause altitude sickness. Consult your doctor for medications and acclimatization strategies. If you have any past medical history that may get affected because of the change in the environment, then consulate that as well and inform us too.
3. Trekking gear: Invest in high-quality trekking gear, including a sturdy pair of trekking boots, warm clothing, a backpack, a sleeping bag, and trekking poles. If your budget is tight, then you can rent most of the gear in Thamel, Kathmandu, at a fraction of the cost.

Best Annapurna circuit trek with Tilicho lake package 2024/2025 with local guides and porters

We have the best Annapurna circuit trek with Tilicho lake itinerary that you will follow to do this trek safely and enjoy it to the fullest. The trek is guided by a native mountain guide who knows the trail inside out. So, you will be very safe and get to know a lot about the region and the locals in depth. Likewise, our package cost covers all the major expenses. You only have to take care of your international flights, personal expenses, shopping, tips, etc.

As spring and autumn is the best time to do Annapurna circuit Tilicho lake trek, we have opened our booking for 2023/2024 departure. With us, you can easily customize the itinerary. Apart from a native mountain guide, porters will also accompany you during the trek. They will carry your luggage. Our on-field team is well adapted to the mountainous terrain and the elevation, so they will be totally fine supporting you. 

Annapurna circuit trek with Tilicho lake group & private departure

You can do a group trek or a private trek with us. If you are trekking in a group with your friends and family, then contact us, and we will organize the trek for you. If you are in a small group, like 2 or 3 people, or trekking solo, then you can choose between our fixed departure dates or opt for a private trek as per your preference.

Group departure: We have fixed departure dates for group trekking. Anyone can join any date and trek with other trekkers from around the world who have also joined the same departure date. Our fixed departure groups can include up to 8 people. If you like making friends and connecting with other people, then this is the best option for you.

Private departure: We provide trek service to allow our guests to personalize any trek or tour with us as per their time, budget, and liking. You can select the departure date and itinerary. Similarly, while trekking you can have your pace and enjoy solitary.

*Note: There is a slight price difference between group trekking and private trekking, so you can opt for any of these two options as you wish. Both our group and private departures include all necessary permits, accommodations, meals, and transportation.

Whether you choose a group or private departure, you can be sure that you'll have an unforgettable trekking adventure with us!

Benefits of using Mountain Ram Adventure for the Annapurna circuit trek with Tilicho lake

Join us, Mountain Ram Adventure, on our Annapurna circuit Tilicho lake trek 2023/2024 departure and top-notch service in the remote mountains. Once the trip gets confirmed, our committed and expert team will be with you all the time- before, after, and during the trek to make sure the journey goes smoothly.

Below are just a few of the benefits of using us, Mountain Ram Adventure, for your trek:

1. Experienced and Knowledgeable Guides - Our mountain guides are natives of the Annapurna region. They know everything about the region. They are always updated on the trail and know the best side trips along the trek route, and will provide great insight.
2. Safety First - Your safety is our top priority. We take every precaution to ensure that you're safe during your trek, including providing you with the necessary equipment, such as a first aid kit, satellite phone, etc.
3. Small Group Sizes - We run small groups of up to eight people per group, which allow us to give attention to every member of the group and maintain our quality and safety standard. This also lets us tailor the itinerary to the best interest of the group.
4. Sustainable and Responsible Tourism - Our trips are eco-friendly and directly contribute to the betterment of the local communities wherever we travel. We work closely with local communities to ensure that our treks have a positive impact on the local environment and economy.
5. Affordable Packages - Our trekking packages are affordable and include all meals, accommodation, permits, expenses of guides & porters, and transportation as per the itinerary. There is no hidden cost.

Alternative trekking packages

If you only wish to do Tilicho lake trekking, then check out the package here. We also have the Annapurna circuit trek with the Annapurna base camp package.  Likewise, if you have limited time, then our short Annapurna circuit trek will be ideal for you.

Here are some of our other challenging treks- Nar Phu valley trek, Upper Mustang trek, Kanchenjunga circuit trek, Upper Dolpo trek, and Makalu base camp trek. These treks are some of the most difficult and remote treks in Nepal.

Beginner trekkers can check out these trekking packages- Langtang valley trek, Everest base camp trek, Mardi Himal trek, Ghorepani Poon Hill trek, Mohare Danda trek, Everest View trek, and EBC trek with helicopter return.

Let's be responsible for our waste- clean travel

We feel a great sense of responsibility towards the places we explore and the communities we interact with during our treks and tours. We believe that responsible tourism is the need of the hour, and each one of us can make a difference by adopting sustainable travel practices.

One of the biggest challenges that we face as travelers are managing our waste. While trekking, we often come across beautiful landscapes and pristine wilderness that leave us awestruck. However, our thoughtless waste disposal practices can quickly turn these paradises into dumping grounds.

As a trekking company, we make sure to educate our clients on the importance of responsible waste management. We encourage them to carry their waste back with them and dispose of it properly at designated spots. We also provide our clients with eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastics and urge them to avoid littering.

We understand that it may not always be easy to manage waste while trekking, but we believe that it's our collective responsibility to keep our environment clean. By adopting simple practices like carrying reusable bottles, avoiding plastic packaging, and segregating waste, we can make a huge difference in reducing our carbon footprint.

Moreover, as responsible travelers, you should also be mindful of the impact of your actions on the local communities. You should respect the local culture, traditions, and customs and make sure not to harm the environment or the people who call it home.

Let's work together to protect the planet and its natural beauty for future generations to enjoy!

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