Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek - 16 Days

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek is a teahouse trek in the Annapurna Region which combines the classic Annapurna Circuit with a side trip to Tilicho Lake. On this 16-day journey, the trek circles the impressive Annapurna Massif from west to east, covering roughly 160 to 185 km. It’s long been a favourite among nature lovers and mountaineers. You’ll witness breathtaking views of around 140 peaks across the Annapurna Himalayas.

The hike to Tilicho Lake(4,919m/16,138ft), one of the highest glacial lakes in Nepal, is surrounded by Tilicho Peak, Annapurna I, Annapurna II, and the Great Barrier range. Visiting this peaceful lake surrounded by beautiful Himalayas is a lifetime experience. The trek then continues to Thorong La Pass, at 5,416m/17,769ft, the highest point of this trek. From this mountain pass, it rewards visitors with a close view of the Annapurna Massif and the Dhaulagiri Ranges. Also, the panoramic views of Nilgiri, Thorung Peak, and Yakawakang and other snow capped peak is equally stunning to watch. The pass also reveals distant views of the dramatic landscapes of the Mustang District and the Kali Gandaki Valley.

Then descending from the pass, the trail leads to Muktinath Temple, a sacred Hindu and Buddhist site. Pilgrims bathe under its 108 sacred water spouts, believed to bring moksha and liberation. From here, the trail follows the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the world’s deepest gorge.

You’ll spend the night in Jomsom village, famous for its strong afternoon winds, sweet apple orchards, and sacred Shaligram fossils. It also serves as the starting point for treks to Upper Mustang. From Jomsom, enjoying the aerial view of the Himalayan landscape and Phewa lake you will land in Pokhara. Then take a drive to Kathmandu to conclude your journey.

Every day, trekkers need to hike for around 5-7 hours inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, home to rich flora and fauna, including the rare red panda and elusive snow leopard.

If you are looking for a trek with beautiful mountain views, cascading waterfalls, glacial lakes, rich Himalayan culture, and villages like Manang, then this trek is the perfect option. Book now and enjoy a full Himalayan Adventure with High Route Adventure.

Major Attraction of Annapurna Circuit Trek Via Tilicho Lake 

Scenic Himalayan Views

Annapurna Circuit Trek is famous for its panoramic view of the world’s best mountain peak in the Himalayas. On this trek, you will witness breathtaking views from Annapurna I (8,091 meters) to Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters), Manaslu (8,163 meters), and Gangapurna (7,455 meters). Also, the sunrise and sunset from a spot like Pisang or Manang are absolutely magical.

Tilicho Lake, the Jewel of the Himalayas

Tilicho Lake lies at an altitude of 4,919 m (16,138 ft) on the northern slopes of the Annapurna Massif. This lake is considered sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists. From Tilicho Base Camp, Tilicho Lake is approximately 6 km away and takes around 3–4 hours to reach on foot. This deep sapphire blue lake is surrounded by Tilicho Peak (7,134 m) and the Great Barrier, with views extending toward Nilgiri and Gangapurna. On the lakeshore, visitors can see a statue of Lord Shiva and Gautam Buddha adorned with colorful prayer flags, reflecting the lake’s spiritual significance.

The thrill of Crossing Thorong La Pass

Situated at an altitude of 5,416 meters, Thorong La Pass is the most challenging part of the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek. Even though it is challenging from this pass it rewards visitors with some of the best view of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Some of the famous mountain you can notice from here are Thorong Peak (6,144 m), Yakawa Kang (6,482 m), Annapurna III (7,555 m), and Dhaulagiri (8,167 m).

Diverse Landscapes

Another main reason trekkers love the Annapurna Circuit so much is its diverse landscape at every turn. The Annapurna region ranges from lush subtropical forests and terraced paddy fields to alpine meadows and arid high-altitude deserts. Passing through lush hills, beautiful villages, waterfalls, and beautiful Rhododendron forest adds to the beauty of this trek.

Immerse in Rich Cultures

On this Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho lake, you will travel from Gurung Communities to the Tibetan-influenced communities of Manang and Marpha. It allows you to immerse in the firsthand taste of Nepal’s multi-ethnic heritage. It’s fun to experience their unique traditions, delicious food, colorful festivals, and traditional clothing.

Visiting Muktinath Temple

Another major attraction of the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek is visiting Muktinath Temple. Muktinath temple is the world’s highest altitude temple, which stands at an altitude of 3,710 meters. This temple holds sacred significance to the Hindu and Buddhist people. Pilgrims bathe under the 108 sacred water spouts, believing the ritual washes away their sins and purifies the soul. The temple is also home to an eternal flame that burns naturally from the earth, adding to its mystic atmosphere.

Kali Gandaki Gorge, the Deepest Gorge in the World

On your return journey from Muktinath, you will pass through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, widely regarded as the world’s deepest gorge. Nestled between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, this spectacular gorge showcases the immense power of nature. The dramatic cliffs, roaring Kali Gandaki River, and thrilling suspension bridges make this section of the trek both scenic and adventurous.

What To Expect On This Annapurna Circuit With Tilicho lake Trek

The Annapurna Tilicho Lake trek consists of a ready-made package with a carefully made itinerary of 16 days. You will start your journey from Kathmandu by taking a bus to Besisahar. Then, after driving further, you will reach Chame, the starting point for this Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek.

The actual trek is 16 days, including one rest day in Manang for acclimatization. Following the standard Annapurna Circuit trekking route, you will head to the famous world’s highest lake, Tilicho Lake.

After visiting Tilicho Lake, a mostly downhill trek returns to Siri Kharka, from where it continues on the Annapurna Circuit to Yak Kharka. During this trek, no camping is required, and High Route Adventure will provide you with the best available guesthouses or teahouses.

Famous mountains to look out for while trekking are the Annapurna mountains I to IV, reaching up to 8,091m/26,545ft, Mt Dhaulagiri 8,167m/26,795ft, Mt Manaslu 8,163m/26,781ft, Mt Gangapurna 7,455m/24,459ft, Pisang Peak 6,091m/19,984ft and Tilicho Peak 7,134m/23,406ft.

Your average daily trekking time is 5-7 hours, with downhill and uphill sections and a few steep sections. The trails are well-maintained and mostly comfortable to trek, with reasonable guesthouse accommodations along the way.

Widely considered one of the best treks in Nepal, the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is best enjoyed during spring or autumn, when the weather is most favorable, and the mountain views are at their clearest.

This trek offers a rich blend of culture, stunning high-altitude mountains over 8,000m (26,247ft), authentic Himalayan villages, and a visit to Tilicho Lake, the highest lake in the world at 4,949m (16,237ft). Additionally, you will get the unforgettable experience of crossing Nepal’s highest mountain pass, Thorong La Pass(5,416m/17,764ft).

Is This Annapurna Circuit With Tilicho Lake Trek Suitable For You?

➡️Duration: Participants must have 16 Days of vacation to complete the trek comfortably.

➡️Previous trekking experience: This trek is not for first-time trekkers. However, beginner trekkers can participate with good preparation, determination, and the support of an experienced guide.

➡️Physical Fitness: Participants must be in good physical shape with strong stamina.

➡️Health Condition: Participants must be in overall good health, with no serious medical conditions that affect their ability to trek at high altitude.

➡️Age requirements: There is no strict age limit, but recommended for 18-70 yrs who are physically fit.

➡️Daily walking hours: Participants must be prepared to walk for 5-7 hours per day on average, over steep and uneven mountain trails.

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek Cost for 2026/2027

Our 16 day Tilicho lake trek package price starts from USD 1650 per person. The overall cost depend upon the group size, accommodation upgrades, and optional add-ons like a private jeep to Besisahar or extra activities in Pokhara.

Recommended Read:

Annapurna Circuit With Tilicho Lake Trek: Booking, Payment and Cancellation Policy

Booking:

Step 1: You can book the package online through our website. Just click the "Book Now" button and fill in the required information.

Step 2: After submitting the request, you need to make a payment of 20% of the total trip cost. Then send us the payment slip.

Step 3: Once we receive the payment, your booking will be confirmed, and we will send confirmation through WhatsApp or email.

Payment:

To make a payment, you can use all kinds of payment methods that are convenient for you, like:

• Credit or Debit Card (Visa, MasterCard, etc.)
• Online Bank Transfer (Wire Transfer)
• Online Payment Gateway
• Cash Payment (at our Kathmandu office)
• Mobile Wallet (where available)

Cancellation Policy: To know detail about the cancellation policy, please check our company terms and conditions.

Notes

Best Time For Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake Trek

The best time for the Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake Trek is during the Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November). Spring, which is the peak season for trekking in Nepal. Day temperatures are pleasant, often ranging between 10-20°C (50-68°F) in lower regions. Even in higher altitudes, conditions remain manageable. At the high hills the blossom of wildflower and trekking trails are dotted with colorful rhododendron forest. It's the perfect season to enjoy scenery of iconic peaks like Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, and Dhaulagiri.

Autumn is considered the best time of year and the most loved season for trekking. The weather is neither too hot nor too cold, offering ideal trekking conditions, with average temperatures between 10-15°C (50-59°F) in mid-altitudes. Visitors can enjoy excellent views of Himalayan peaks and Tilicho Lake, as the weather remains stable most of the time. Additionally, Dashain and Tihar, the greatest festivals of Nepal, fall during this season. The whole Nepalese community celebrates these festivals, making it fun and exciting to be part of the experience.

Weather And Temperature In Annapurna Region

Here is the average temperature you can expect in the Annapurna region throughout the year:

Note: Always check the weather forecast before starting your trek, as conditions in the high Himalayas can change quickly.

Required Permits For the Annapurna Circuit With Tilicho Lake Trek

For Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trekking, it's important to know that trekking permits are mandatory. These permits help support conservation efforts inside the Annapurna Conservation Area and ensure the safety and regulation of trekkers in the Annapurna region.

These are the permits that you need to carry:

Note: High Route Adventure will arrange all the permits for all our trekkers before you head for the trek.

Annapurna Circuit With Tilicho Lake Trek Difficulty And Preparation Tips

Altitude and Acclimatization:

The most common challenge that trekkers need to face during the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake is high altitude. To reach Tilicho Lake and Thorong La Pass, trekkers need to walk above 4,000m, and while walking at such an altitude, the chances of having altitude sickness are real. Symptoms of altitude sickness may include nausea, headache, dizziness, and fatigue. This can happen to anyone when walking above 35,00 m, where the oxygen level is low.

To mitigate the effects of altitude:

• Walk slowly at high altitudes and avoid speeding.
• Follow acclimatization properly and rest well at high altitudes.
• Drink enough water and avoid alcohol.

Difficulty rating for altitude:

• Moderate to Challenging, depending on how well you follow an acclimate plan.

Fitness Level and Physical Stamina:

On this Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek, you will do 10 days of trekking, and on these 10 days, you need to walk for an average of 5-7 hours daily. Walking up steep uphill and down, you need to maintain good physical stamina and strong legs, as well as cardiovascular fitness.

Physical preparation tips:

• If you are a beginner, trekkers train at least 2-3 months before starting your trek.
• Include cardio exercises like running, cycling, or swimming to improve stamina.
• Practice long hikes with a backpack to simulate trekking conditions.

Difficulty rating for fitness:

• Moderate if you have prior trekking experience; challenging for beginners.

Weather Conditions:

The Annapurna region has varied weather conditions depending on the season. Although spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are considered good times, sometimes the weather can be unpredictable.

Common weather challenges:

• Sudden snowfalls or rainfall can make Annapurna trails slippery.
• Extreme cold and strong winds at higher altitudes can test your endurance.
• During winter, Tilicho Lake may be completely frozen, and the trail may be more dangerous due to snow.

Difficulty rating for weather:

• Moderate during peak seasons; challenging during winter or monsoon months.

Trail Conditions:

The Annapurna Circuit and side trek Tilicho Lake trails also add difficulty:

• Some sections are good and well-maintained, but at higher altitudes, you can expect narrow ridges with steep drops, uneven terrain, and rocky inclines.
• The trail to Tilicho from between Shree Kharka and Tilicho Base Camp is exposed to landslides and needs extra caution.

Difficulty rating for trail conditions:

• Moderate to Challenging.

Duration:

Another factor that affects the Annapurna Circuit with the Tilicho Lake trek is the long duration. Trekkers need to have 16 days of vacation, and trekking continuously for a regular 10 days is physically and mentally exhausting.

Difficulty rating for duration:

• Moderate for seasoned trekkers; challenging for first-timers.

Availability of Teahouses and Resources:

Annapurna Circuit trail is well established because it is one of the most popular trekking trails in Nepal. However, at high altitude, due to transportation issues, trekkers need to stay in a tea house with basic facilities.

Difficulty rating for resources:

• Moderate due to adequate facilities on the main trail but limited options near Tilicho Lake.

Worth reading: A Complete Travel Guide to The Annapurna Circuit Trek

Food and Drinks During the Trek: What to Expect

When you book the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek high route adventure, we will arrange three meals(breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trek. There will be no wide variety of food in the high-altitude areas. Expect a basic food menu during the trek. You will have the option to choose veg and non-veg meals, and for special dietary restrictions, you need to inform us while booking the package.

Let’s see the common meal that you can expect at the tea house.

• Breakfast: Tibetan bread with jam, honey, or peanut butter, Pancakes, Porridge, Muesli or cornflakes with milk, a variety of Eggs, Toast with eggs, Chapati with curry
• Lunch & Dinner: Dal Bhat Tarkari Set veg and nonveg option), Fried rice (vegetable, egg, or chicken), Noodles, Pasta, Spaghetti with tomato sauce, Mo: Mo, Seasonal vegetable curries, etc.
• Beverage: Nepali spiced tea, Ginger lemon honey tea, Milk tea or black tea, Coffee, Hot chocolate, Hot lemon, energy drinks, alcoholic beverages, etc.

Accommodation During the Trek: What to Expect

During your Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek, you will stay in a tea house, which a local family runs. This tea house, also known as a mountain lodge, is small in size and designed to provide facilities for trekkers. You will get basic facilities for lodging and food inside the tea house, and there are plenty of tea houses along the Annapurna Circuit trekking trails.

What to Expect in Tea Houses:

1. Simple Rooms: Don’t expect luxury; expect simple basic rooms with twin-sharing rooms with amenities like a wooden bed, thin mattress, blanket and pillow.
2. Shared Bathrooms: Occasional western toilets can be found at lower altitudes, but at higher altitudes, squat toilets are common. Running water is limited at high altitudes, and for hot water and hot showers, you need to pay around $2-$5.
3. Communal Dining Areas: During the trek, you will enjoy your meal in the communal dining area. In the dining area, you can find a fireplace and make yourself warm, as there will be no AC or heater in the room.
4. Wifi and Charging Facilities: Trekkers who want to use the wifi and charging during the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake need to pay an extra cost of around $2-$5.

Transportation to Reach Besisahar

High Route Adventure will arrange a seat on a comfortable tourist bus from Kathmandu to Besisahar. The road condition up to Dumre is good, but the last section from Dumre to Besisahar is quite rough. It takes 6 to 8 hours overall to reach Besisahar by bus. The bus departs daily from Machhapokhari Bus Station, and a private vehicle will be arranged to take you there from your hotel. For those who prefer a more comfortable travel option, a private jeep can be booked at an extra cost.

Necessity of Travel Insurance

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is considered moderate to strenuous in terms of trek difficulty due to its challenging nature. So, not only is it recommended to have travel insurance, but it is essential to have it. Having travel and health insurance helps you to prepare financially and medically, too.

Why Do You Need Travel Insurance?

• At high altitudes, when trekkers become sick or injured, the only option is helicopter evacuation. Travel insurance covers these emergency services.
• Emergency medical treatment: For treatment at the hospital in an emergency case, your insurance will cover the treatment cost.
• If your trek is cancelled or postponed due to certain reasons like weather issues, strikes, etc, it helps you to cover non-refundable bookings and flight changes.
• Although the chances of loss and theft of luggage or personal items are low, travel insurance still helps you recover costs.

High Route Adventure Team

When you choose the High Route Adventure for the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek, we guarantee that your journey will be safe and comfortable. We will provide you with a team which consists of a trekking guide, porter and a large group assistance guide. Our trekking guides are experienced and are experts in this field with a long history of successful treks. They know how to safely navigate you on the trekking trails and what to do in an emergency situation. Our porter will carry luggage of 20 kg, and one porter will be assigned to two trekkers. When we are with you, be confident that you are in safe hands.

Equipment

The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake is a world-class trekking route in Nepal. From lush valleys to high mountain passes, and the stunning Tilicho Lake—one of the highest lakes in the world—this trek covers it all. But with varied terrain and temperatures ranging from warm and sunny to cold and snowy, packing smart is key.

Here’s a detailed gear list based on real trail experience to help you prepare confidently for this adventure.

🏔️ Trekking Essentials

Duffel Bag (80–100L)
Your main bag will be carried by a porter or pack animal. Use a rugged, weather-resistant duffel.

Daypack (30–35L)
You’ll carry this yourself. Pack essentials like water, jacket, sunscreen, snacks, and camera.

Rain Cover
Showers and snow can appear suddenly. Most daypacks come with one—if not, buy separately.

Trekking Poles
Highly recommended, especially for steep sections and the Thorong La Pass.

Sleeping Bag (Rated to -10°C/14°F)
Nights at high altitudes can be freezing. Rentals are available in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Water Bottles + Hydration Bladder
Carry a 2L bladder for ease and 2 bottles (1L each) as backup.

👟 Footwear & Clothing

👢 Footwear

• Hiking Boots: Waterproof and broken-in
• Camp Shoes or Sandals: For relaxing in lodges
• Gaiters (optional): Helpful in snow or slush

🧦 Clothing (Layer for All Seasons)

Base Layers

• 2 moisture-wicking tops (long and short sleeve)
• 1–2 thermal base layers for cold nights

Mid Layers

• Lightweight fleece or wool pullover
• Down vest (ideal for layering without bulk)

Outer Layers

• Insulated down jacket (essential above 4,000m)
• Windproof and waterproof shell (jacket + pants)

Trekking Pants

• 2 pairs breathable hiking pants
• 1 warm pants or leggings for lodge evenings

Trekking Shirts

• 2–3 moisture-wicking T-shirts (quick-dry)

Socks & Underwear

• 4–5 pairs hiking socks (plus 1 warm pair for sleeping)
• 3–4 pairs of quick-dry underwear

🧢 Head & Hands

• Warm hat (wool/fleece beanie)
• Sun hat or cap
• Neck gaiter or buff
• Thin liner gloves
• Warm insulated gloves (waterproof recommended)

🛏️ Lodge Comfort

Lodge Clothes
Pack a comfy set for evenings: warm top, pants, socks

Sleeping Bag Liner
Optional, but adds warmth and hygiene

Towel (Quick-Dry)
For basic washes or paid hot showers

Pillowcase
Lodge pillows aren’t always fresh—having your own is handy

🧴 Toiletries & Hygiene

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap
• Wet wipes (for body cleanups)
• Toilet paper (bring 2 rolls—can restock on trail)
• Hand sanitizer
• Small mirror, nail clipper
• Lip balm with SPF
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+)

💊 Health & Hydration

Water Purification

• Tablets, drops, or a SteriPen
• Safe drinking water is not always available

First Aid Kit

Include band-aids, ibuprofen, antiseptic, altitude tablets like Diamox

Hydration Supplements

Electrolytes like Nuun or ORS for long days

Vitamins/Protein

Bring light snacks like energy bars, protein powder

🔦 Tech & Extras

• Headlamp (plus spare batteries)
• Power bank (solar charger optional)
• Charging cables and plug adapters (Nepal uses Type C, D, M)
• Camera or phone with extra memory
• Dry bags or packing cubes
• Trekking map (offline apps like Maps.me or Gaia are useful)

📄 Documents & Money

• Passport (plus 2 copies)
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
• TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
• Travel insurance that covers trekking above 5,000m
• Cash (at least NPR 25,000–30,000 or USD $200–$300) for meals, snacks, and charging