Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is a high-altitude Himalayan journey that blends challenge, culture, and staggering natural beauty into one powerful experience. The trek starts with a scenic overland drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani, where terraced hills, river bends, and distant mountain tops welcome you into a quieter rhythm of travel. From Dharapani, the real climb begins, following the roaring Marsyangdi River upstream through stone-built settlements and pine-fringed valleys. The river stays beside you like a steady companion—sometimes loud, sometimes hidden below cliffs, always cold, always alive.
Tilicho Lake sits at 4,949 meters, holding the title of the highest altitude lake in the world. Thorong La Pass rises even higher at 5,416 meters, the major summit day of the Annapurna Circuit trek. Hikers from all over the world call this one of the most breathtaking trekking routes in Nepal. It crosses the districts of Manang and Mustang, trans-Himalayan regions shaped by dry winds, prayer flags, yak trails, and ancient village culture. This trek explores the remote side trails of the Annapurna massif while offering jaw-dropping views of Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, Him Chuli, and even glimpses of Manaslu toward the east.
The Annapurna Circuit trek first opened in 1949, carrying more than 20,000 trekkers each year today. Over 20,000 adventure lovers search for Annapurna base camp and circuit routes online, many dreaming of standing beside Tilicho’s still blue waters, where the surface looks like liquid glass reflecting the sky’s mood. The Annapurna region itself draws global interest, with search terms like Annapurna Circuit Tilicho Lake Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek 2026, High Pass Annapurna, Tilicho Lake Hiking, and 12-day Himalayan adventure Nepal trending among outdoor enthusiasts.
This trek demands long walking days—often 6 to 10 hours—through changing altitude, rocky terrain, and steep mountain air. Some mornings start with frost on window panes and frozen water taps. Some afternoons bring dust, wind, and long uphill switchbacks. But every night ends in a warm teahouse lodge, where local hosts serve steaming dal bhat, soup, or garlic tea that smells sharp and comforting. It’s a trek that challenges the lungs, the legs, and the heart, but it gives back more than it asks. The trail ends at Muktinath, a sacred mountain town, before driving down toward the lakeside calm of Pokhara, where sunsets spread slow amber light across Phewa Lake and Annapurna’s southern skyline.
We leave Kathmandu early, the city sounds fading behind us. The road winds beside rivers, past terraced rice fields, waterfalls slipping down rock faces, and villages stitched into hillsides. You’ll feel Nepal shift from urban noise to rural calm as mountains begin to rise taller on the horizon. We spend the night in a guesthouse lodge at Dharapani, where the air is cool, carrying a faint wood-smoke scent from local kitchens.
Lunch & Dinner
Lodge/ Guesthouse
1960 m
The trail moves toward Danaque, then to the Tamang villages built from stone and slate. You’ll see stacked homes, carved windows, and trailside mani walls etched with Buddhist prayers. The day often brings the first close mountain views, especially Manaslu and Him Chuli toward the east. We reach Chame by late afternoon, crossing a suspension bridge where the river below runs icy green.
Brekfast, Lunch & Dinner
Lodge/ Teahouse
2710 m
This morning climb threads into a pine forest where sunlight slices through tall trunks, resin scent lingering in the air. The valley opens wider as you walk, and Pisang Peak rises snow-white ahead. We reach Upper Pisang, a village that feels like the threshold to a higher world.
Brekfast, Lunch & Dinner
Lodge/ Teahouse
3115 m
We walk toward Braga, passing stone homes built one over another like layered steps. The largest gompa in the Manang region rests here, quiet and painted in deep, spiritual colors. Manang is our acclimatization hub. It’s cold at night but gentle in hospitality.
Brekfast, Lunch & Dinner
Lodge/ Teahouse
3540 m
Today we hike upward to Khangsar Village, staying active to help the body adjust. You’ll feel the air thin out slightly as we climb, but views expand dramatically. This day supports altitude adjustment while keeping the legs moving.
Brekfast, Lunch & Dinner
Lodge/ Teahouse
3756 m
The trail begins steeper now, rocky and exposed. The air is thinner but views start to feel cinematic Chulu East, Gungang Himal, and Annapurna’s ridges appear sharper, closer, almost unreal.
Brekfast, Lunch & Dinner
Lodge/ Teahouse
4060 m
This day is gentler but loose with gravel. Walk carefully sections are fragile. Tilicho Base Camp sits cold and frontier-like beneath Tilicho Peak.
Brekfast, Lunch & Dinner
Lodge/ Teahouse
4140 m
The lake appears still, cobalt blue, reflecting clouds that drift like slow paint strokes across the sky. You may see grazing yaks, deer, or distant shepherds guiding animals along narrow paths. We descend back to Siri Kharka for the night.
Brekfast, Lunch & Dinner
Lodge/ Teahouse
4949 m
We pass Tare Gompa (3,870m), a monastery village hidden along a quiet side path. We follow the Thorong Khola Valley until we reach the abandoned stone cluster of Old Khangsar before settling at Yak Kharka.
Brekfast, Lunch & Dinner
Lodge/ Teahouse
4040 m
The climb stays steady and strong. If we’re lucky, we may see blue sheep or lammergeyer vultures soaring overhead. Local folklore lingers in this region, stories of snow leopards and mythical birds drifting between teahouse conversations.
Brekfast, Lunch & Dinner
Lodge/ Teahouse
4600 m
This is the big one. You’ll feel it in your lungs and thighs as you climb into cold wind and wide Himalayan silence. Thorong La rewards you with overwhelming mountain views, including Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Khatungkang, and the gleaming white Dhaulagiri. We descend 1,600 meters into the sacred town of Muktinath.
Brekfast, Lunch & Dinner
Lodge/ Guesthouse
3802 m
We descend toward Jomsom, Beni, Tatopani, and finally Pokhara. The trek’s energy softens here. Phewa Lake brings stillness, reflecting the sky’s evening gold and Annapurna’s southern shadow.
Breakfast/ Lunch
Hotel
850 m
Your 12-day Annapurna Circuit trek package includes all essentials to ensure safety, comfort, and professional mountain support.
| SN | Start Date | Trip Duration | Cost Per Person | Availability | Join Group |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2026-02-28 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| SN | Start Date | Trip Duration | Cost Per Person | Availability | Join Group |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2026-03-01 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| 2 | 2026-03-07 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| 3 | 2026-03-12 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| 4 | 2026-03-16 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| 5 | 2026-03-21 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| 6 | 2026-03-27 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| 7 | 2026-03-31 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| SN | Start Date | Trip Duration | Cost Per Person | Availability | Join Group |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2026-04-03 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| 2 | 2026-04-09 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| 3 | 2026-04-12 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| 4 | 2026-04-18 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| 5 | 2026-04-22 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| 6 | 2026-04-25 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| 7 | 2026-04-29 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| SN | Start Date | Trip Duration | Cost Per Person | Availability | Join Group |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2026-05-01 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| 2 | 2026-05-06 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| 3 | 2026-05-10 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| 4 | 2026-05-16 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| 5 | 2026-05-21 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| 6 | 2026-05-25 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| 7 | 2026-05-31 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| SN | Start Date | Trip Duration | Cost Per Person | Availability | Join Group |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2026-06-03 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| 2 | 2026-06-10 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| 3 | 2026-06-15 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| 4 | 2026-06-19 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| 5 | 2026-06-24 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| 6 | 2026-06-27 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
| 7 | 2026-06-30 | 12 Days | USD 900 | Available | Book Now |
The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is a classic long-distance trek in Nepal that combines the full Annapurna Circuit route with a side trip to Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world. Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks offers this trek as a complete Himalayan experience covering high passes, glaciers, alpine valleys, and traditional villages.
Tilicho Lake is located in the Manang district of Nepal, within the Annapurna region. It lies at an altitude of around 4,919 meters and is accessed during the Annapurna Circuit trek via a side trail from Manang.
The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is considered moderately difficult to challenging. The difficulty comes from long walking days, high altitude, and crossing Thorong La Pass. With proper acclimatization and guidance from Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks, it is achievable for fit trekkers.
The highest point of the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters. Tilicho Lake itself sits at 4,919 meters, making altitude management very important.
This trek usually takes 14 to 18 days, depending on the itinerary and acclimatization days. Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks customizes the duration based on fitness level, travel time, and seasonal conditions.
The best time to trek Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer clear mountain views, stable weather, and safer trail conditions.
Yes, Tilicho Lake Trek is safe when done with proper acclimatization and an experienced trekking company like Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks. Weather conditions and trail safety are carefully monitored during the journey.
Yes, hiring a licensed guide is mandatory in Nepal for this trek. A professional guide from Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks ensures safety, navigation, cultural insights, and emergency support.
You need the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card to trek the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake. Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks handles all permit arrangements.
Temperatures can drop below minus 10 degrees Celsius at higher altitudes, especially around Tilicho Lake and Thorong La Pass. Proper clothing and layering are essential.
Accommodation is mainly in teahouses and lodges along the Annapurna Circuit. Rooms are basic but comfortable, with meals available at the lodges. Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks selects reliable lodges for better comfort.
Trekkers can enjoy Nepali meals like dal bhat, noodles, soup, rice, and some Western dishes. Food options become limited at higher elevations but remain nutritious.
Yes, altitude sickness is a major concern due to rapid elevation gain. Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks includes proper acclimatization days and trained guides to manage altitude safely.
A good level of physical fitness is recommended. Prior hiking experience is helpful but not mandatory. Regular cardio and leg training before the trek will greatly help.
Beginners with strong fitness, proper preparation, and guidance can complete this trek. Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks supports first-time trekkers with flexible pacing and acclimatization.
The trail to Tilicho Lake is rough and sometimes landslide-prone. It requires careful walking, especially in windy or snowy conditions, which is why experienced guides are essential.
The trek offers views of Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and many more Himalayan giants.
The trek usually starts from Besisahar or Jagat, reached by road from Kathmandu. Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks arranges all ground transportation.
Thorong La Pass is physically demanding due to altitude and long walking hours. However, with early starts, good weather, and expert support, it is safely manageable.
Essential items include warm clothing, trekking boots, sleeping bag, down jacket, gloves, sunglasses, and personal medication. Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks provides a detailed packing list.
It’s a strenuous trek with long walking days of 6–10 hours. The altitude gain and Thorong La Pass at 5,416m make it physically demanding, but it’s achievable with good pacing and proper acclimatization.
Tilicho Lake is at 4,949m, making it the highest altitude lake on the planet, sitting below Tilicho Peak in the Annapurna range.
Thorong La Pass at 5,416m is the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit trek.
More than 20,000 trekkers hike the Annapurna Circuit each year, with many adding the Tilicho Lake side trail for the full experience
It’s usually 120–160 km depending on side hikes like Tilicho Lake, spread over long and scenic mountain days.
Winter offers clearer skies but colder nights, frost-heavy mornings, and occasional snow. It’s possible but needs extra layering and flexible planning.
Most overland transfers begin early in the morning, often around 6–7 AM, to maximize daylight travel hours.
Yes. Hotel transfers are included at the start and end of the trek under Adventure Himalaya Circuit service.
Yes. The Annapurna Circuit trek can be adjusted based on fitness, pacing, and seasonal conditions.
Small kids aren’t recommended for Tilicho Lake because of the altitude at 4,949m. Older teens with good health and insurance can join.
Yes, but both are paid locally at teahouse lodges along the Annapurna Circuit trail
Limited Wi-Fi and mobile network are available in some villages, but connectivity is unreliable at higher altitudes, especially near Tilicho Lake.
Yes, some parts of the Annapurna Circuit now have road access, but Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks designs routes that maximize trekking trails and scenic value.
The cost depends on duration, group size, services, and season. Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks offers competitive pricing with professional guides, permits, and logistics included.
Yes, travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation is mandatory for this trek.
Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks offers experienced local guides, flexible itineraries, safety-focused planning, and deep regional knowledge, making your Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek safe, authentic, and memorable.
This 12-day Annapurna Circuit trek covers roughly 120 to 160 km depending on side hikes. The trek reaches 5,416 meters at Thorong La Pass and 4,949 meters at Tilicho Lake. The highest walking days can stretch 8 to 10 hours, especially near Tilicho and Thorong Phedi. The climate shifts fast here. Mornings can bring frost. Afternoons may carry strong valley wind. Nights drop cold but stay warm with hospitality inside teahouse lodges.
The best seasons for Annapurna Circuit trek and Tilicho Lake hiking are March to May and September to November. Winter treks are possible but colder and require extra layering and flexibility for weather delays. Morning views are usually clearer year-round.
You’ll need ACAP and TIMS permits, both included in your package. These permits support conservation and trekker safety tracking throughout the Annapurna region.
Warm layers, gloves, thermal base layers, sturdy trekking boots, high-SPF sunscreen, lip balm, personal toiletries, power bank, headlamp, water purification tablets or filter, trekking socks, and a good hat are key. Even in spring, mornings at altitude feel winter-like.
You’ll be monitored twice daily using an oxygen and pulse meter. Guides are trained to watch for AMS symptoms—headache, nausea, dizziness, unusual fatigue, or shortness of breath. If altitude sickness strikes, transport, lodge, and meal costs can’t be refunded, and Kathmandu stays afterward are your responsibility. Emergency helicopter service will be managed by your insurance provider.
Teahouse lodges serve local Nepali meals. Dal bhat, noodles, soup, tea, coffee, and garlic tea are popular staples. Hot showers and device charging are available but paid locally.
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Li Wei Chen
Taiwan
A Proud Moment on the Annapurna Circuit
9th January, 2026
I completed the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek in November with Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks & Tours, and it was an unforgettable experience. My guide looked after me with great care and encouragement from start to finish. Every day brought stunning mountain views and cozy teahouses that felt warm and welcoming after long walks. At times the scenery felt unreal, like walking through a movie set. The trek was challenging but incredibly rewarding, and reaching the end filled me with pride.
The team at Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks & Tours provided excellent hospitality, personalized service, and truly professional guides. Basu Lamsal was friendly, experienced, well organized, and genuinely caring, which made the whole journey smooth and stress free. I am deeply thankful for this life changing adventure.
Kenji Tanaka
Japan
A Perfect Annapurna Circuit Journey
31st December, 2025
What a fantastic experience from start to finish. My Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake was truly unforgettable, thanks to Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks & Tours. From airport pickup to hotel drop off, everything was smoothly organized, so I could fully enjoy the trek and the incredible scenery. The hospitality was warm, the service felt very personal, and the guides were professional and knowledgeable at every step.
Basu Lamsal deserves special mention. He is friendly, experienced, well organized, and genuinely caring. It was clear that he and his team truly value their guests and pay attention to every detail. I always felt safe, supported, and well looked after throughout the journey.
I would highly recommend Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks & Tours to anyone planning a trek in Nepal. Choosing them means choosing peace of mind and a memorable adventure.
Aarav Sharma
India
A Perfect Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake Experience
18th December, 2025
The entire trip was excellent, and I wholeheartedly recommend Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks & Tours to anyone planning the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake. From start to finish, everything felt well-organized and stress-free. The hospitality was warm, the service was very personalized, and the guides were truly professional and attentive on the trail.
Our guide was knowledgeable about the route and surroundings, which made the trek even more enjoyable and informative. The landscapes were absolutely breathtaking, and every day felt special. Time seemed to fly because I was having so much fun throughout the journey.
A special thanks to Basu Lamsal, who is friendly, experienced, caring, and always makes sure everything runs smoothly. His attention to detail and genuine care for travelers really stood out. Overall, it was an unforgettable adventure, and I would happily recommend this company to anyone.
Min Jae Park
Korea South
Tilicho Lake A Journey I Will Never Forget
5th December, 2025
My trek to Tilicho Lake with the Annapurna Circuit, organized by Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks & Tours, was an experience I will always treasure. The walk was challenging at times, but every step was rewarded with stunning mountain views and a deep sense of achievement. Standing by the turquoise waters of Tilicho Lake surrounded by the Annapurna range was simply magical. The company showed great hospitality and truly personalized the journey to our needs. Our guides were professional, patient, and always supportive. Basu Lamsal deserves special thanks for his friendly nature, deep experience, and caring approach. Everything was well organized, which allowed us to enjoy the trek with complete peace of mind. This was a once in a lifetime adventure that I would happily recommend to anyone.
Somchai Kittikul
Thailand
A Himalayan Journey I Will Never Forget
12th December, 2025
The Tilicho Lake with the Annapurna Circuit trek was truly unforgettable. Every day brought breathtaking views of the Annapurna range and a deep sense of adventure. The trail was demanding at times, but reaching the crystal clear waters of Tilicho Lake felt incredibly rewarding and emotional.
Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks & Tours took excellent care of us from start to finish. Their hospitality was warm, the service felt very personal, and the guides were professional and knowledgeable. A special thanks to Basu Lamsal, who was friendly, experienced, well-organized, and genuinely caring throughout the journey. His attention to detail made the trek smooth and enjoyable.
This was a once in a lifetime experience that I will always treasure and happily recommend to other travelers.
Luca Romano
Italy
A Perfect Annapurna Circuit Experience to Remember
26th November, 2025
After a long search for the right trekking company, we were truly happy to choose Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks & Tours for our 12-day Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek. From Chame to Pokhara, everything was well organized and thoughtfully planned, including the beautiful side trip to Tilicho Lake.
The company impressed us with its great hospitality, personalized service, and very professional guides. Our guide was always positive, attentive to our needs, and made sure we stayed safe and comfortable throughout the journey. We also really appreciated the kindness and hard work of our porter.
A special thanks to Basu Lamsal, the owner, who is friendly, experienced, caring, and extremely organized. His attention to detail and genuine care for trekkers really shows in how smoothly everything runs.
Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks & Tours is a company you can truly trust. They also respect your personal space, allowing you to enjoy the peace and beauty of the Himalayas at your own pace. I would happily recommend them to anyone planning a trek in Nepal.
Anna Müller
Germany
A Peaceful Journey to Tilicho Lake
20th November, 2025
We recently completed the Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek with Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks & Tours, and it was truly a wonderful experience from beginning to end. The company showed great hospitality and offered very personalized service throughout the trek. Everything was well organized, and the guides were professional, knowledgeable, and always supportive.
The highlight for me was reaching Tilicho Lake. Seeing its clear blue water surrounded by the mighty Annapurna range was absolutely breathtaking and felt almost unreal. It is a memory I will cherish forever.
Basu Lamsal deserves special thanks. He is friendly, experienced, caring, and made sure every detail was handled smoothly. I felt safe, comfortable, and genuinely looked after during the entire journey. I would highly recommend this company to anyone planning a trek in Nepal.
Pierre Laurent
France
A Journey to Tilicho Lake That Touched My Soul
17th November, 2025
The Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek, organized by Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks & Tours, truly exceeded my expectations. The trek was demanding at times, but every step was rewarded with breathtaking mountain views and a warm team spirit. The company showed great hospitality and offered very personalized service throughout the journey. Our guides were professional, knowledgeable, and always supportive, which made the trek feel safe and enjoyable. Basu Lamsal stood out as a friendly, experienced, and caring leader who kept everything well organized from start to finish. Reaching Tilicho Lake was the most magical moment, with its peaceful waters surrounded by the mighty Annapurna range. I finished the trek feeling proud, inspired, and deeply grateful for this unforgettable Himalayan experience.
Sofia Dimitrova
Bulgaria
A Soul Stirring Journey to Tilicho Lake
7th November, 2025
My journey to Tilicho Lake with the Annapurna Circuit was an unforgettable adventure, beautifully organized by Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks & Tours. From the very beginning, the team showed great hospitality and truly personalized service, making us feel comfortable and well cared for throughout the trek. The guides were highly professional, knowledgeable, and always attentive to our safety and pace.
Reaching Tilicho Lake was a magical moment. Surrounded by the mighty Annapurna range, the calm and beauty of the lake left me speechless. A special thanks to Basu Lamsal, whose friendly nature, experience, and caring attitude made the entire journey smooth and well-organized. This trek helped me connect deeply with nature and appreciate the raw beauty of the Himalayas. I would wholeheartedly recommend this company to anyone seeking a genuine Himalayan trekking experience.
Tomas Novak
Czech Republic
A Peaceful Journey to Tilicho Lake and Beyond
29th October, 2025
The Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek organized by Adventure Himalaya Circuit Treks & Tours truly went beyond my expectations. From the very first day, everything felt well planned and personal. The hospitality was warm, and the guides were professional, patient, and always encouraging, which made a challenging trek feel comfortable and safe.
Tilicho Lake was the most magical part of the journey. Standing by the calm blue water surrounded by towering mountains was deeply moving and something I will never forget. Special thanks to Basu Lamsal, who was friendly, experienced, and very organized. His caring nature and attention to detail made the whole trip smooth and stress free. I would happily recommend this company to anyone looking for a genuine Himalayan trekking experience.