The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake is the most rewarding and scenic trek in Nepal. The highest that we will reach in this trek is 5,416 m at Thorong La Pass. Our trail combines a classic circuit trail with a surreal view visit to Tilicho Lake (4,919 m). Tilicho Lake is considered one of the world’s highest lakes. We will visit Muktinath Temple and eventually descend to Lower Mustang.
Trekkers get to flow into dramatic changes in landscapes, from lush forests and terraced fields to alpine meadows and arid highlands. Trekkers pass through charming mountain villages influenced by Tibetan culture. Feel the breeze of Himalaya, with the prayer flags flowing in the air and monks chanting mantras in their monasteries. All these features make the journey worth it.
Overview
The journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to the lush foothills of the Annapurna region. From Dharapani to Chame, the trail winds through pine forests and waterfalls, revealing snow-capped peaks along the way. Reaching Pisang and Manang, the air cools, and prayer flags mark ancient mountain villages.
After a rest day in Manang for acclimatization, the route climbs toward Tilicho Base Camp and the stunning Tilicho Lake, its turquoise waters framed by towering peaks. You then rejoin the main trail through Yak Kharka and Thorong Phedi, crossing the iconic Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) before descending to the sacred valley of Muktinath and Jomsom. The trek ends with a relaxing drive to Pokhara and back to Kathmandu, wrapping up an unforgettable Himalayan journey.
Highlights
- Trekkers will be visiting Tilicho Lake (4,919 m), it's the highest glacial lake accessible on foot.
- The highest point of the trek is Thorong La Pass (5,416 m).
- Explore a variety of landscapes, including subtropical valleys and high alpine deserts.
- Learn about the culture of Manang, Muktinath, and Lower Mustang.
- Throughout the trip, there are panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Rest and relax after your flight. Later, attend a short briefing about the trek with your guide and team. Relax in your hotel and enjoy a warm dinner.
We will be using this day to prepare ourselves for the trek. From permits, packing essentials to getting familiar with your trekking crew. Later you can explore the city and get a small tour to various heritage sites in the city.
You can also take guidance from the crew and buy last-minute gear needed for the trek. In the evening you will head back to the hotel for overnight.
Distance: ~200 km | Duration: 8–9 hours
Today is the official start of our trek for the destination. Wake up for the warm breakfast and prepare for a drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar. We will drive through Pritthvi Highway while enjoying riverside views and hilly countryside.
After reaching Besisahar, we will be taking a rugged off-road jeep ride to Jagat. Jagat will be our ascending point of the trek. The drive to Jagat is scenic but a bit bumpy, if offers some eye-pleasing glimpses of mountain life and terraced villages.
Distance: ~15 km | Duration: 6–7 hours
Start trekking along the Marsyangdi River through subtropical forests and farmlands. Cross several suspension bridges and small settlements like Chamje and Tal, where the landscape begins to open up. Continue to Dharapani, a charming village marking the entrance to the Manang district.
We will reach for Jagat today. Trekking from alongside the Marsyangdi River through subtropical forests and farmlands. We will be crossing suspension bridge and settlements like Chamje and Tal.
Distance: ~17 km | Duration: 5–6 hours
Walking through the beautiful trail lined with scented pine forests and waterfalls. Viewing into the Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II. We will pass through Bagarchhap and Timang, Tibetan-influenced villages. Watching the fluttering prayer flag and breathing the fresh mountain air makes the whole experience surreal.
Overnight stay at Chame, the district headquarters of Manang. Fall into the hospitality of the area.
Distance: ~14 km | Duration: 5–6 hours
Today we will spend around 5 to 6 hours trekking 14 km of distance. Our trail is filled with narrow valleys, pine woods, and rocky cliffs. Crossing through the Marsyangdi river witnessing its loud noise and breeze by suspension bridge. After a while of walking, we will reach Upper Pisang.
Grazing yaks and horses in the grassland, people chatting, and monks chanting mantras in the monasteries create a dramatic fusion of the destination. You get to see Annapurna II and IV from here. We later will stay overnight at a teahouse in Upper Pisang.
Distance: ~15 km | Duration: 6–7 hours
Walk along the high trail through Ghyaru and Ngawal, traditional villages offering stunning panoramic views. The air thins as you approach Manang, a picturesque settlement with stone houses, bakeries, and teahouses overlooking the Annapurna range.
Spend the day acclimatizing to the altitude. Take short hikes to Gangapurna Lake, Bhojo Gompa, or Chongkor Viewpoint for breathtaking scenery. Try their famous buttermilk tea and catch yourself chatting with the locals out there while sipping that delicious goodness.
Learn about the region’s Buddhist culture and visit the Himalayan Rescue Association center for altitude safety tips.
Distance: ~10 km | Duration: 4–5 hours
We will be leaving Manang today and heading towards Shree Kharka, passing through arid hillsides and yak pastures. The landscape becomes more barren as you approach the high-altitude zone. Overnight at a teahouse overlooking the Gangapurna Glacier.
Distance: ~8 km | Duration: 5–6 hours
It’s day 10 of our trek, in which we will be heading to Tilicho Base Camp from Sirikhark. The destination is about 8 km away, spending 5 to 6 hours on the walk. The path that we are going to go is narrow and challenging but safe under guided supervision. We will eventually reach Tilicho Base Camp, located at the foot of Tilicho Peak.
Explore the area and walk into crisp snow while enjoying the scenes. We will rest at the base camp for the next day’s ascent.
Distance: ~14 km round trip | Duration: 7–8 hours
To reach Tilicho Lake, a breathtaking turquoise body of water encircled by snow-capped peaks, begin your ascent early. The lake is so surreal that every walk, every path feels worth it. Spend time soaking in the serene atmosphere before descending the same way back to Sirikhark for an overnight stay.
Distance: ~10 km | Duration: 4–5 hours
Today we will walk from the Sirikhark. Wake up early and have your breakfast to reach Manang. After we reach Manang, we will follow a side trail to Yak Kharka.
The terrain that we will walk is more open. You’ll get to see grazing yaks and horses, headers’ huts, and grazers gathered to chat along. The altitude is high, so walk slowly and hydrate well. We will rest for the day at a teahouse at Yak Kharka.
Distance: ~7 km | Duration: 4–5 hoursWe will walk from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi. This day is important for acclimatization before crossing the pass. The trail climbs steadily to Thorong Phedi. It will be the last settlement before Thorong La. After we reach prepare gear and rest well for an early start the next morning.
Distance: ~16 km | Duration: 8–9 hours
Begin our steep climb before dawn to reach Thorong La Pass. Exploring paths that are crisping in the snow, we will reach Thorong La Pass. The area is marked with fluttering prayer flags and panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Mustang Valley.
After reaching and celebrating your summit, prepare to descend to Muktinath, a sacred temple revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. Take blessings and enjoy the chants of mantras, people enjoying, and many other happenings of the surrounding. We will stay at a lodge at Muktinath.
Distance: ~15 km | Duration: 5–6 hours
Prepare yourself for the day for a trek or a drive from Muktinath to Jomsom. You can choose the facility according to your choice or weather. Descending through Jharkot and Kagbeni while enjoying views of Mustang’s desert terrain. We will arrive in Jomsom, a windy town famous for apple orchards and local Thakali hospitality.
Enjoy the orchard valley and areas for exploring, and we will be staying overnight at a cozy lodge at Jomsom.
Distance: ~140 km | Duration: 7–9 hoursWe will be driving along the Kali Gandaki River through mountain gorges and villages. Reach Pokhara, the city of lakes, and unwind with lakeside dining and a peaceful evening by Phewa Lake. Later we will be staying at a hotel in Pokhara.
Distance: ~200 km | Duration: 6–7 hoursEnjoy a scenic drive back to Kathmandu via the Prithvi Highway. Arrive at your hotel and relax. Optional evening dinner with your trek team to celebrate the journey.
After a warm breakfast, our team will prepare to bid farewell to you. With warm hearts, Igloo Himalaya Treks bids you farewell, wishing you to have a great journey ahead. We hope we will meet again for the next trek in Nepal.
Later our representative will transfer you to the airport for your onward flight. Carry home lasting memories of your Himalayan adventure.
Includes
- Airport transfers (arrival & departure)
- All ground transportation as per itinerary
- Accommodation in Kathmandu, Pokhara (3 Star Hotel with Breakfast) & teahouses during the trek
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Professional, licensed English-speaking guide & porter
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- Staff insurance and first-aid support
- Duffel bag Down Jacket Sleeping Bag (return after trek)
- Trekking map and trip complete certificate
Excludes
- International airfare and Nepal visa
- Travel & medical insurance
- Meals in Kathmandu & Pokhara (except breakfast)
- Personal expenses (snacks, Wi-Fi, laundry, hot showers, etc.)
- Tips for guide, porter, and driver
- Delays due to flight cancellations, weather, or natural causes
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
Fit hikers can tackle this moderate to difficult trek. On some days, there are high-altitude climbs and six to eight hours of walking.
You’ll need the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) by Igloo Himalaya Treks.
The best seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) for stable weather and clear views.
Slow ascent schedules and appropriate acclimatization days in Manang reduce risk. Our guides have received altitude safety training.
Comfortable local teahouses with basic amenities and warm meals are available throughout the route.
