Round Annapurna Trek with Tilicho Lake-18 Days
Duration
18 days
Activities
Tour and Trekking
Max Altitude
(5416m./17769ft.)
Group Size
02-08
Expedition Overview
Facts of the trip
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Arrival On
Kathmandu
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Departure From
Kathmandu, Nepal
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Accommodation
Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Teahouse basis accommodation during trekking
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Meals
BB plan in Kathmandu and All meals during the trek and expediiton
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Best Time
October-December, February- Jun
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Transportation
Private Vehicle and Domestic flight
The Round Annapurna Trek with Tilicho Lake is more than just a high-altitude adventure; it is a journey through time, where ancient Himalayan cultures and untouched landscapes tell stories of resilience and harmony. Unlike many other treks, this route offers a dynamic transition from subtropical forests to barren, windswept plateaus, resembling the rugged terrain of Tibet. The trek provides an opportunity to experience the remote Khangsar Village, one of the last settlements before reaching Tilicho Lake, where traditional stone houses and prayer flags flutter against the backdrop of towering peaks. The mesmerizing Tilicho Lake, resting at 4,919 meters, is not just a scenic wonder but also holds deep spiritual significance, as some Hindu texts reference it as a sacred site. The blue waters of the lake reflect the grandeur of Tilicho Peak, Annapurna III, and Gangapurna, creating a surreal and meditative environment that few places on Earth can match.
What makes this trek particularly intriguing is the dramatic weather shifts and geological diversity encountered along the way. As trekkers ascend, they cross the rain shadow zone of the Annapurna range, where the landscape shifts from green forests to desert-like cliffs. The infamous Thorong La Pass (5,416m) is not just a test of endurance but also a gateway to the hidden world of Mustang, where Tibetan Buddhist culture thrives. Many trekkers don’t realize that the Kali Gandaki Gorge, which they pass through near the trek’s end, is the deepest gorge in the world, cutting between Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, two of the world’s highest peaks. Unlike the more commercialized trekking routes, this journey remains deeply rooted in local traditions, with age-old monasteries, yak caravans, and Mani walls lining the trails, reminding visitors that they are walking on paths used by traders and pilgrims for centuries.
Highlights of the Round Annapurna Trek with Tilicho Lake
- Thorong La Pass (5,416m): One of the most thrilling experiences of the trek is crossing Thorong La Pass, one of the highest trekking passes in the world. This challenging section offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu ranges. The sense of accomplishment after crossing the pass is unparalleled, and the views from the top are awe-inspiring.
- Tilicho Lake (4,919m): Tilicho Lake is a highlight that sets this trek apart. Located at an altitude of 4,919 meters, it is one of the highest lakes in the world, surrounded by towering peaks and glaciers. The serene and pristine beauty of the lake, with its crystal-clear blue waters, is an unforgettable sight and a must-see for trekkers.
- Diverse Landscapes: Throughout the trek, trekkers will experience an incredible variety of landscapes. From lush subtropical forests in the lower regions to the terraced farmlands of villages like Ghandruk and Chhomrong, the trek then gradually transitions into alpine meadows and the barren high-altitude desert of Mustang. This ever-changing scenery offers trekkers an ever-evolving experience as they move through different climatic zones.
- Manang Valley Exploration: The Manang Valley is a significant stop during the trek, not only for acclimatization but also for its natural and cultural beauty. Surrounded by stunning mountain views, the valley offers opportunities to visit Tibetan monasteries, hike to glaciers, and enjoy panoramic vistas. The local community’s rich Tibetan culture adds a unique flavor to the journey.
- Muktinath Temple & Kali Gandaki Gorge: At the end of the trek, trekkers visit Muktinath Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, famous for its eternal flames and the 108 water spouts. On the way, you’ll also pass through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the world’s deepest gorge, situated between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The gorge’s dramatic landscape and rushing river add to the trek’s appeal.
- Cultural Diversity: This trek offers a deep cultural immersion, passing through a variety of ethnic villages. Gurung, Magar, Thakali, and Tibetan communities offer trekkers a chance to experience a blend of Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Visiting ancient monasteries, chortens, and observing local rituals and festivals are some of the highlights of the cultural experience.
The Round Annapurna Trek with Tilicho Lake combines the best of natural beauty, high-altitude challenges, and cultural diversity, making it a comprehensive adventure for trekkers looking for an epic Himalayan experience.
Itinerary
Welcome to Himalayan country of Nepal. Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan international airport our representative welcomes you and assists to transfer in your hotel in Kathmandu (1,400m). After time to get refreshed, evening you will meet and transfer for welcome dinner in one of the typical Nepalese restaurant in the heart of Kathmandu and after meal briefing about your trip and overnight at Hotel.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Hours: 30 Min
- Altitude: 1400m
- Meals: Dinner
Today, morning we will ready after your breakfast to head on for our relaxing guided day trip to world heritage sites in Kathmandu valley and visit the highlights of Kathmandu and the surrounding areas. We take you to visit the pilgrimage sites of Hindus temple Pashupatinath, one of the most important shrine of Shiva temples on the subcontinent which is place of thousand of devotees, Saddhus (holy men/Baba), and can be seen the cremating body most of the times in the holy riverbank of Bagmati. Hundreds of monkeys are giggling with you and take a time to exploring surrounding area and visit Bouddhanath stupa an another pilgrimage centre which is most popular and important place for Buddhist. You can explore with rounding prayer wheel and flattering colorful flag with melodious chanting noise. After your lunch at Bouddha visit Swoyambhunath stupa also known as monkey temple covering wide range of area with highest point of Kathmandu valley and enjoy the 360 degrees of valley view. After exploring the surrounding areas visit to Kathmandu Durbar Square which is old royal palace of Kathmandu and can be seen lot of temple, architectures and Kumari (living goddess) and walk in a freak street and late afternoon back to hotel and evening briefing about your trip, what is your responsibility, what to do and does not in the trek? Introduce with our fellow trekking staff and chances to ask remaining question and simply relax at the hotel
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Hours: 6
- Altitude: 1400m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
We will come to pick up at your hotel about 7 AM in the morning then we drive along the Kathmandu-Pokhara highway till Dumre and then follow the narrow and paved road by the Marsyangdi River to Bhulbhule. Overnight at tea house lodge.
- Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
- Hours: 7
- Altitude: 2160m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After the breakfast, we take local Jeep till Dharapani (1943). After lunch at Dharapani we will take easy walk to Bagarchap, we see first Tibetan monastery and you can also see the view of Annapurna II and Lamjung himal. Overnight at tea house lodge.
- Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
- Hours: 6
- Altitude: 2160m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The trail climbs along the mule track through the forest, past a rough trail, hot springs a water fall and a wooden bridge, to arrive at Chame. Overnight at tea house lodge.
- Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
- Hours: 5
- Altitude: 2670m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Walk along the riverside, through deep forest to cross the suspension bridge and arrive at Pisang with good views of Pisang peak and Annapurna II. Overnight at teahouse lodge.
- Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
- Hours: 6
- Altitude: 3200
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We follow the trail that takes us to Upper Pisang via Geru and Ngawal village. It guarantees excellent views of the beautiful landscape and the mighty mountains including Annapurna II, IV, Tilicho and Pisang. We will stop short visit at Braga monastery, oldest and largest in the region. We continue our trek to largest tibetan settlement in the region Manang. Overnight at tea house lodge.
- Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
- Hours: 7
- Altitude: 3535m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Acclimatization day in Manang. Visit to Ice Lake or Gangapurna Lake and explore around Manang. Overnight stay at tea house lodge.
- Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
- Hours: 6
- Altitude: 3535m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We start our trekking by leaving the main route of Annapurna Circuit, we take the lest route from Manang by Crossing a Bridge once the Marshyanndi Khola and follow Another Stream coming from Tilicho, about 4 hours walking we reach at Khansar and Overnight at tea house lodge.
- Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
- Hours: 4
- Altitude: 3750m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast we trek to Tilicho Base Camp. Overnight at tea house lodge.
- Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
- Hours: 5
- Altitude: 4525m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast we trek to Tilicho lake – visit the Lake. We will carry the pack lunch for the day. After the supper close view of Mt. Tilicho and Tilcho lake we walk back to BC. Overnight at tea house lodge.
- Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
- Hours: 7
- Altitude: 4910m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We walk back through the Khangsar valley and continue towards the circuit to Yak Kharka (4100m). Fantastic views of Annapurna ranges and Chulu West (6419m) as well as pasture areas and yak kingdom. Overnight stay at tea house lodge.
- Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
- Hours: 6
- Altitude: 4100m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The trail climbs north west of the tributary valley of the Jargeng Khola. It is some times possible to see herds of blue mountain sheep along the cliff. Overnight at tea house lodge.
- Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
- Hours: 5
- Altitude: 4450m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ascend steeply for 2 hrs. to a rock ledge high camp at 4890m, then along an undulating trail to the level top of Thorang La 5416m. View of Annapurna range to the south and Mukut Himal bordering Dolpo to the West. Descend in to Mustang, a steep down hill trail for 3 hrs. to Muktinath. This is one of the most important pilgrimage sights for Hindus. The holy water flows from the 108 carved spouts surrounding the Vishnu temple in a grove of secret poplars. Muktinath is also home to many ethnic Tibetans and holy Buddhist as well, particularly for the temple in which fire miraculously burns in a stream of water. Overnight at tea house lodge.
- Accommodation: Tea house / Lodge
- Hours: 8
- Altitude: 5416m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast trek to Kagbeni 2800m. Kagbeni is the Gateway to Upper Mustang. We will visit Buddhist monastery, the monastery supposed to be some 500 yrs old which is situated in the town. After the lunch we continue trek to Jomsom. Overnight at hotel.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Hours: 6
- Altitude: 2700m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today 22 minute morning flight takes us to Pokhara from Jomsom. Once we arrived at Pokhara airport, we then drive to hotel. In the afternoon we will have sightseeing tour around Pokhara valley, which covers Fewa Lake, Devi’s water fall, International Mountain Museum, Tibetan refugee settlement and Gupteshower cave. Overnight at hotel.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Hours: 6
- Altitude: 920m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Driver back to Kathmandu. 7 hrs drive. You can choose flight option which will take 24 min to Kathmandu. Overnight at hotel.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Hours: 7
- Altitude: 1400m
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Drop to international airport for final departure or follow your next adventures trip.
- Accommodation: No
- Hours: 30 Min
- Altitude: 1400m
- Meals: Breakfast
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Cost Details
What's Included
- Pick up from and drop to the international airport in Kathmandu.
- Accommodation in Kathmandu (3 nights in 2-3 star level tourist standard hotel, other possibility on demand)
- All land transfer as per given itinerary
- Sightseeing tour with an experienced local guide (entrance fees for monasteries, temples, world heritage sites)
- Annapurna Conservation Entry Permit
- TIMS (Trekking Information Management System) Permit.
- Accommodation in trekking: • Tea house (twin sharing room)
- Meals (3 meals / B.L.D) while on the trek (possible to choose the opiton including only breakfast and order lunch and dinner individually from the tea house menu)
- Experienced English speaking guide / tour leader, experienced local helpers
- Program according to the itinerary
- Wages, food, accommodation, equipment, insurance and other facilities for staff members
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
- Lunch and dinner whilst in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Your travel insurance (compulsory).
- International airfare
- Nepal entry visa fee (US$ 30 per person) you obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport Kathmandu
- Items of a personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, laundry.
- Personal bike and Equipment.
- Tips for trekking staff. (Tipping is expected.)
- Any others expenses which are not mentioned
What to Expect
Accommodation:
We will be staying at 2/3 star hotel in Kathmandu, and in tea-houses during the trek. All rooms are on twin-shared basis. Single bedroom will be arranged on request and will cost additional. Fourteen Summit will arrange rooms with attached washrooms; however, tea-houses at some places only have shared washing and toilet facilities. Also note that single rooms are readily available in Kathmandu and in trekking regions at lower elevation but it might be difficult to find them at higher altitude.
Meals:
All meals will be provided during trekking (On demand, we can arrange only breakfast during the trek and trekkers can order lunch and dinner individually from the tea-house menu). In Kathmandu, breakfast will be available . There will also be welcome and farewell dinners taking place for guests. While on trek, we have breakfast and dinner in the tea-houses/lodges where we spend the night and lunch on our way to next destination. Authentic Nepalese, Tibetan, continental meals and Indian cuisine are common choices in the menu.
Physical Condition & Experience Requirements:
Round Annapurna Trek with Tilicho Lake view is a moderate trek. Travelers who can walk up to 6-7 hours a day on an uphill and downhill trail will consider this trip fulfilling and enjoyable. It is a good idea to prepare for the Annapurna circuit trek by jogging and exercising regularly at least for a month prior to the start. Trekking to the Round Annapurna Trek should be relatively easy for those who have experience in walking/trekking in high altitudes. Determination, good physical health, positive attitude and average physical fitness are good preconditions for a successful accomplishment of the trek. Past hiking experience would be an asset but no technical skills are required for this trip. Participants with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart, lung, and blood diseases should inform Fourteen Summits before booking the trek.
Best Time to Travel:
The best time for trekking to Round Annapurna Trek with Tilicho Lake is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The temperature is moderate and guarantees amazing views throughout the trip. Although this trek can be undertaken during winter, the cold temperature might not be suitable for everyone.
Equipment List
Fourteen Summit has compiled a list of necessary equipment, personal medical supplies and symptoms of medical condition likely to face during trekking / peak climbing. Also, please do understand that items listed below should be considered as an essential summary.
We highly recommend you to be familiar with all of your equipment and basic understanding of medical Conditions related to high elevation.
Your document to travel to Nepal:
Valid passport, 2 extra passport size photos, airline tickets
Separate photocopies of passport, visa form (easily obtained at Kathmandu airport)
Dollars in cash for purchasing Nepalese visa at Kathmandu airport
Credit cards, bank/ATM/cash machine cards for withdrawing funds from cash machines
Accessories:
Sleeping bag rated to zero degrees F
Headlamp with spare bulbs and batteries
Small pad or combination lock-to-lock trek bag
Basic First Aid Kit (see Health and Medicinal)
Large plastic bags – for keeping items dry inside trek bag
Daypack (approximately 2500 to 3000 cubic inches)
Water bottles
Toiletries
Small wash towel
Rain coat
Personal Clothing items
Head:
Sun hat or scarf
Light balaclava or warm fleece hat
Sunglasses with UV protection
Upper Body:
T-shirts
Weight thermal tops
Fleece jacket or pullover
Fleece Wind-Stopper jacket (optional)
Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket
Down vest and/or jacket (optional)
Hands:
Lightweight gloves
Heavyweight gloves or mittens with a waterproof shell outer
Lower Body:
Underwear
Hiking shorts
Lightweight cotton long pants
Light and expedition weight thermal bottoms
Fleece or wool pants
Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell pants
Feet:
Thick, warm wool hiking socks
Hiking boots with spare laces
Camp shoes (sneakers and/or sandals)
Personal Hygiene:
Personal hygiene supplies;
Two tubes lip sun cream, at least 1 large tube regular sun cream (min. factor 30), some after-sun lotion in case you do get a sunburn
One toothpaste/brush set;
One hand sanitizer gel
1 (fast drying) synthetic towel
Medical Supplies:
Personal prescription medications; Please let your leader know about any medical issues before the climb.
Small personal first-aid kit; (Simple and Light): first-aid tape, plasters (Band-Aids),alcohol-free wipes for cuts, personal medications, etc. (The leaders will have more extensive first-aid kits)
One skin blister repair kit
Anti-diarrhea pills (Imodium) (one regular package)
Anti-headache medication (Aspirin or Ibuprofen) (one regular package)
One small bottle cough and/or cold medicine.
One course antibiotics for chest infection, available locally at chemist shop or pharmacy with no doctor’s prescription.
One course antibiotics for stomach infection, available locally at chemist shop or pharmacy with no doctor’s prescription.
One small bottle anti-altitude sickness medication: Diamox (Acetylzolamide), available locally, for more about this medication, please contact us or your doctor
One small bottle of water purification tablets (needs to contain silver-ions AND chlorine) or a water filter or UV sterilizer.
Earplugs
Extra prescription glasses/contact lens. Contact lens wearers, please bring glasses in case of emergency.
Photo and Video
FAQ
The Round Annapurna Trek with Tilicho Lake is a challenging and scenic trekking route in Nepal that combines the classic Annapurna Circuit Trek with a detour to Tilicho Lake (4,919m), one of the highest alpine lakes in the world. This trek takes around 15-21 days, covering diverse landscapes ranging from lush green valleys to high mountain passes, including the famous Thorong La Pass (5,416m). It offers breathtaking views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhre, and Tilicho Peak, while passing through remote villages and ancient Buddhist monasteries.
The trek is considered challenging due to its high altitude, steep ascents, and long trekking days. Daily walks range from 5 to 8 hours, with Thorong La Pass (5,416m) and Tilicho Lake (4,919m) being the most demanding sections. Proper acclimatization is essential, and trekkers should have good physical fitness and endurance to complete this trek successfully.
The best seasons for the trek are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is stable, and the mountain views are clear. Spring offers blooming rhododendron forests, while autumn provides crisp visibility. Winter (December-February) is possible but comes with extreme cold and heavy snowfall, making Thorong La Pass difficult to cross. Monsoon (June-August) brings rain and landslides in the lower regions, but the Tilicho Lake area, located in the rain shadow, remains relatively dry.
Yes, trekkers need two permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card. These permits can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or Pokhara and are checked at various points along the trek.
The trek typically takes 15 to 21 days, depending on the itinerary and acclimatization days. The route follows the classic Annapurna Circuit with a detour to Tilicho Lake from Manang, before rejoining the main trail and crossing Thorong La Pass. Some trekkers choose to end the trek in Jomsom and fly to Pokhara, while others continue through Tatopani and Ghorepani before concluding in Nayapul.
Accommodation consists of teahouses and lodges, offering basic rooms with twin beds, blankets, and shared bathrooms. Lower elevations have hot showers, Wi-Fi, and charging ports, but higher areas like Tilicho Base Camp and Thorong High Camp have more basic facilities with limited electricity and food options. Prices for food and accommodation increase at higher altitudes due to transportation challenges.
Yes, altitude sickness is a serious concern on this trek, especially at Tilicho Lake (4,919m) and Thorong La Pass (5,416m). Acclimatization days in Manang and Tilicho Base Camp are highly recommended to adjust to the altitude. Trekkers should hydrate well, ascend gradually, and recognize early symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, dizziness, and nausea. In severe cases, descending to a lower altitude is necessary.
The trek can be done independently, as the trails are well-marked, but hiring a guide is beneficial for navigation, safety, and cultural insights. A porter can carry heavy luggage, making the trek easier, especially at high altitudes. Hiring a guide and porter also supports the local economy and ensures a more comfortable trekking experience.
The trek typically starts from Besisahar, which is about a 6-7 hour drive from Kathmandu. Many trekkers take a jeep from Besisahar to Chame or Dharapani to shorten the trek. The trek usually ends in Jomsom, from where trekkers either fly to Pokhara or continue by jeep and bus to Pokhara and Kathmandu.
The Round Annapurna Trek with Tilicho Lake is special because it combines the diversity of the Annapurna Circuit with the adventure of visiting Tilicho Lake, one of the highest and most beautiful lakes in the world. It offers a mix of stunning landscapes, high mountain passes, diverse cultures, and remote Himalayan beauty. The crossing of Thorong La Pass is a major achievement, and the changing scenery from subtropical forests to barren high-altitude deserts makes it one of the most rewarding treks in Nepal.