Overview
The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake is the ultimate Himalayan adventure, combining the world's greatest trek with a visit to the world's highest lake. This epic journey circumnavigates the entire Annapurna massif while adding the challenging side trip to Tilicho Lake (4,920m), sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists and one of the most spectacular alpine lakes on Earth.
The route follows the classic Annapurna Circuit through 16 distinct climate zones, from subtropical forests to high-altitude desert. After acclimatizing in Manang, we venture off the main trail to Tilicho Base Camp, then ascend to the turquoise waters of Tilicho Lake surrounded by towering peaks. The adventure continues as we cross Mesokanto La Pass (5,100m) to rejoin the circuit, then tackle the legendary Thorong La Pass (5,416m) - the world's highest trekking pass.
The journey concludes with the famous Poon Hill sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, offering a spectacular finale to this comprehensive Himalayan experience. This trek is designed for experienced trekkers seeking the complete Annapurna experience, combining cultural immersion, challenging passes, and one of nature's most breathtaking alpine lakes.
Trek Highlights
Best Time to Trek
Spring (Mar - May)
Rhododendrons bloom, warmer temperatures, good visibility. Tilicho Lake may still be frozen but creates stunning ice formations. Pass conditions are generally good.
ExcellentAutumn (Sep - Nov)
The most reliable season with crystal-clear skies, stable weather, and the best mountain views. Tilicho Lake is at its most beautiful turquoise color.
Best SeasonDay-by-Day Itinerary
Early morning departure from Kathmandu by tourist bus to Besisahar (820m), the traditional starting point of the Annapurna Circuit. The bus journey follows the Trishuli and Marsyangdi Rivers, offering stunning views of rural Nepali life, terraced farmlands, and distant Himalayan peaks. Upon arrival in Besisahar, switch to a private jeep for the rugged drive to Chame (2,670m), the district headquarters of Manang. The jeep section passes through dramatic river valleys, cascading waterfalls, and dense pine forests, with your first breathtaking glimpses of Annapurna II (7,937m) and Lamjung Himal (6,983m). This combination saves multiple trekking days while allowing proper acclimatization. Check into your teahouse and explore Chame's small bazaar and natural hot springs.
What's Included
Cost Includes
- All airport/hotel transfers in private vehicle
- 3 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (3-star with breakfast)
- 1 night hotel accommodation in Pokhara (3-star with breakfast)
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Best available teahouse/lodge accommodation during trek
- Experienced English-speaking trekking guide (government licensed)
- Assistant guide for groups of 4 or more (essential for Tilicho side trip)
- Porter service (1 porter per 2 trekkers, max 20kg per person)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- TIMS card (Trekkers' Information Management System)
- Special permit for Tilicho Lake area (where required)
- All ground transportation as per itinerary (Kathmandu-Bhulbhule & Nayapul-Pokhara-Kathmandu)
- Jeep transfers for Tatopani to Ghorepani road section
- First aid medical kit including pulse oximeter and portable oxygen
- Sleeping bag and down jacket for high altitude (can be returned after trek)
- Duffle bag for porter to carry your belongings
- Trekking map of Annapurna region including Tilicho
- Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
- All government taxes and official expenses
- Emergency evacuation arrangement assistance (cost covered by insurance)
- Crampons/microspikes for Mesokanto La (if needed seasonally)
Cost Excludes
- International airfare to/from Nepal
- Nepal visa fee ($30 USD for 15 days, $50 for 30 days - available on arrival)
- Travel insurance (mandatory - must cover high altitude trekking up to 5,500m, Tilicho Lake, and helicopter evacuation)
- Personal trekking gear and equipment
- Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except welcome dinner and breakfasts)
- Bottled/mineral water during trek (purification tablets provided)
- Hot showers and battery charging at lodges ($2-5 per use)
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, souvenirs)
- Tips and gratuities for guides and porters (recommended)
- Emergency evacuation/helicopter rescue costs (covered by insurance)
- Any costs arising from unforeseen circumstances (weather, landslides, political unrest)
Important Information
- • Travel insurance is mandatory and must cover high altitude trekking up to 5,500m, Tilicho Lake, and helicopter evacuation.
- • This is a very strenuous trek requiring excellent physical fitness and preferably previous high-altitude experience.
- • The Tilicho side trip adds 3-4 days and involves crossing Mesokanto La Pass (5,100m) - proper gear required.
- • We recommend 3-6 months of physical preparation including cardio, strength training, and practice hikes with a weighted pack.
Photo Gallery
Tilicho Lake (4,920m) - World's Highest Lake
Chulu Mountain from Thorang High Camp
Thorang La- 5416m
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Tilicho Lake trek differ from the standard Annapurna Circuit?
The Tilicho extension adds 3-4 days to the classic circuit. You leave the main trail at Manang to visit Tilicho Lake (4,920m), the world's highest lake, then cross Mesokanto La Pass (5,100m) to rejoin the circuit at Yak Kharka before Thorong La. It's more challenging but rewards with one of the Himalayas' most spectacular lakes.
How difficult is the Tilicho Lake side trip?
The Tilicho section is very challenging. The trail to Base Camp involves a dramatic traverse with potential avalanche risk (your guide assesses conditions). The climb to the lake is steep at high altitude. Mesokanto La crossing requires good fitness and may need crampons seasonally. This section is for experienced trekkers only.
Is Tilicho Lake worth the extra effort?
Absolutely! Tilicho Lake is sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists, and its turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks create one of the most stunning scenes in the Himalayas. Many trekkers consider it the highlight of their entire Nepal experience.
What is the accommodation like at Tilicho Base Camp?
Tilicho Base Camp has basic teahouses with simple rooms and shared facilities. Due to its remote location, expect more basic amenities than on the main circuit. This adds to the adventure and sense of remoteness.
Can Tilicho Lake be visited in winter?
Winter (Dec-Feb) visits are possible but very challenging. The trail may be snow-covered and Mesokanto La can be closed. Spring (Mar-May) and autumn (Sep-Nov) are the best seasons when the lake is accessible and conditions are most favorable.