Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake is one of the most popular treks in the Annapurna region. Tilicho Lake is a side hike of the Annapurna Circuit trek. The hike to Tilicho Lake takes an additional 3–4 days. So, trekkers with extra days can plan their itinerary to the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake.
Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake lets you experience beautiful flora and fauna, beautiful landscapes, temples, Gompas and monasteries, stunning waterfalls, diverse Himalayan culture, high passes, deep gorges, and the Tilicho Lake (4,919 meters (16,138 ft).
This blog will clear all your doubts about the trek, including itinerary details, difficulty level of the trek, best time and seasons, things to bring (equipment checklist) for the trek and what you can expect on the trails.
Trek Facts
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Max Elevation: 5,416 m / 17,769 ft (Thorang La Pass)
- Best Time: Mar, Apr, May, June, July, Aug, Sept, Oct & Nov
- Transportation: By Road & By Flight
- Trek Duration: 14 Days
- Accommodation: Lodge / Teahouse
- Per Day Walking: 5 - 7 Hours
- Trek start and End Point: Kathmandu
Trek Highlights
- Traverse through lush valleys, terraced fields, and arid high-altitude deserts.
- Cross the iconic pass at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet) for panoramic mountain views.
- Visit the pristine high-altitude lake at 4,919 meters (16,138 feet), known for its stunning blue waters.
- Spectacular views of Mt. Annapurna, Thorung Peak, Nilgiri, Chulu West and East, Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV.
- Visit Barge Monastery - the largest monastery in the Manang district.
- Explore traditional villages and interact with local communities, including the Gurung, Magar, and Thakali cultures.
- Encounter diverse flora and fauna, including rare species like the snow leopard and Himalayan tahr.
- Enjoy acclimatization days in Manang with its unique landscapes and cultural insights.
- Visit this sacred site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.
- Relax in the natural hot springs at Tatopani after days of trekking.
Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake Overview
The Annapurna Circuit With Tilicho Lake Trek starts with an early morning bus ride from Kathmandu to Besishar and then to Jagat.
The trek starts from Jagat (1,300m/4,265ft) and ends at Dharapani (1,860m/6,200ft). Then you will trek to Chame (2,610m/8,890ft) - the headquarters of the Manang district. From the way, you will get to enjoy incredible views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna III.
After spending a night at Chame, you will head to Pisang (3,115m/10,200ft) village.
The fifth-day Tilicho Lake and Annapurna Circuit trek journey takes you from Pisang to Manang (3,540m/11,300ft). From the trail, you will see small settlements and snow-capped mountain peaks, including Gangapurna, Tilicho, and Pisang Peak. You will spend a day in Manang exploring and acclimatizing and then head to Siri Kharka (4,060m/13,320ft) the next day.
On the eighth day, from Siri Kharka, you will trek to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m/13,583ft) and spend the night there. The next day you will reach Tilicho Lake also called "The Great Ice Lake" itself. The trail to Tilicho is challenging. From Tilicho Lake, you can enjoy the fantastic views of pristine lake water and superb snow-capped high mountains. You can witness Tilicho Himal, Annapurna Range, and Nilgiri Himal surrounding the Tilicho Lake. After reaching Tilicho Lake, you will return to Siri Kharka for the night.
From Siri Kharka you will trek to Yak Kharka (4,060m/13,020ft) - the destination for this day. You will spend a night at Yak Kharka, and on your eleventh day, you will reach Thorong Phedi. Your destination before crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416 m/17,756 ft) crossing.
You wake up early morning at Thorong Phedi, prepare by having breakfast, and climb up to cross Thorong La Pass.
You will cross the Thorong La Pass and descend to Muktinath temple (3,760m/12,623ft) - a Buddhist and Hindu holy site. You will be spending the night at Muktinath.
After a night at Muktinath, you will travel by road to Pokhara which marks the end of your Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek.
Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar (760m / 24,92ft) to Jagat (1,300m / 4,265ft)
Driving hours (175km / 108miles): 9-10 hrs
Highest Altitude: 1,300m / 4,265ft
You will take a 6-7 hours drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar.
Early morning you drive from Kathmandu for about 6-7 hours (190 km) to the Besishar. On the way, you can see beautiful small villages, farms, fast-flowing rivers, and glimpses of some mountain ranges.
After reaching Besishar you get another drive with a private jeep or local bus to Jagat, your destination for the day.
Day 2: Trek from Jagat (1,300 m / 4,265ft) to Dharapani (1,860m / 6,200ft)
Trek Distance: 15km / 9.3miles
Highest Altitude: 1,860m / 6,200ft
Trek Duration: 5 hrs
You begin the 2nd day of your trip to Dharapani. First, you leave Jagat, cross a suspension bridge, and reach Tal Village.
At Tal, you can witness several waterfalls forming a river by the sandy beaches. You will continue the journey leading to Kodo, one of the biggest villages in Manang Valley. After trekking forward, you finally reach Dharapani, where you will spend the night.
Day 3: Trek from Dharapani (1,860m / 6,200ft) to Chame (2,610m / 8,890ft)
Trek Distance: 15.5km / 9.6miles
Highest Altitude: 2,610m / 8,890ft
Trek Duration: 6 hrs
Today you will trek through a pine forest and maple trees and reach Chame, the district headquarters of Manang district. You will witness green forests and peaks like Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV (7,525m).
Day 4: Trek from Chame (2,610m / 8,890ft) to Upper Pisang (3,300m / 10,826ft)
Trek Distance: 13.2km / 8.2miles
Highest Altitude: 3,115m / 10,200ft
Trek Duration: 5 - 6 hrs
You walk through a steep and narrow valley to Paungda Danda Rock Face - a curved rock face.
From the Paungda Danda Rock Face, you descend to the Manang Valley floor, eventually reaching Pisang.
Day 5: Trek from Pisang (3,115m / 10,200ft) to Manang (3,540m / 11,300ft)
Trek Distance: 17km / 10.6miles
Highest Altitude: 3,540m / 11,300ft
Trek Duration: 5 - 6 hrs
Today, you will leave Pisang behind and trek on the upper trails of Pisang. This route offers outstanding north-face views of Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Tilicho, and Pisang Peak.
You will also visit the Barge Monastery, the largest monastery in Manang.
Day 6: Rest and Acclimatization day at Manang
Today you will acclimatize at Manang.
You hike up to Gangapurna Lake / Ice Lake in the early morning. You will enjoy the outstanding views of Annapurna III, Tilicho, Pisang, and Chulu Peaks.
Day 7: Trek from Manang (3,540m / 11,300ft) to Siri Kharka (4,060m / 13,320ft)
Trek Distance: 12km / 7. 4miles
Highest Altitude: 4,060m / 13,320ft
Trek Duration: 4-5 hrs
The trek from Manang to Siri Kharka is an easier one.
After walking for about three hours, you reach the Tibetan settlement Khangsar, and trekking forward you reach Shiri Kharka. On the trails, we will witness gorgeous views of Gungang Himal and Mt.Chulu.
Day 8: Trek from Siri Kharka (4,060m / 13,320ft) to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m / 13,583ft)
Trek Distance: 8km / 4.9 miles
Highest Altitude: 4,150m / 13,583ft
Trek Duration: 5 hrs
Today you will leave Siri Kharka and trek towards Tilicho Base Camp. The trail passes through the landslide-prone areas.
From the trail, you get to enjoy the impressive rock formations and magnificent snow peaks - including Tilicho Peak.
Day 9: Visit Tilicho Lake (4,920m / 16,138ft) then back to Siri Kharka (4,060m / 13,320ft)
Trek Distance: 11 km / 6.8miles
Highest Altitude: 4,920m / 16,138ft
Trek Duration: 5-6 hrs
Today is the day you will be viewing the stunning Tilicho Lake. The path to Tilicho is quite steep, and after hiking for two to three hours, we will reach Tilicho Lake. A well-known French expedition team referred to Tilicho Lake as The Great Ice Lake.
Tilicho Lake sits at an altitude of 4,919 meters (16,138 ft) surrounded by the majestic peaks including Tilicho Himal, Annapurna Range, and Nilgiri Himal.
After enjoying the views of Tilicho Lake, you trek back to Siri Kharka, where we will spend the night.
Day 10: Trek from Siri Kharka (4,060m / 13,320ft) to Yak Kharka (4,060m / 13,020ft)
Trek Distance: 8.4km / 5.2miles
Highest Altitude: 4,060m / 13,020ft
Trek Duration: 4-5 hrs
From Siri Kharka, you descend to the Tibetan settlement, Khangsar Village. On the way, you pass Tare Gumba, a thousand-year-old monastery, and lead to Thorong Khola Valley and finally to Yak Kharka.
From Yak Kharka, you can witness glorious views of the Annapurna mountain ranges.
Day 11: Trek from Yak Kharka (4,060m / 13,020ft) to Thorong Phedi (4,525m / 14,525ft)
Trek Distance: 8.5km / 5.2miles
Highest Altitude: 4,525m / 14,525ft
Trek Duration: 4-5 hrs
You need to walk uphill from Yak Kharka to reach Thorong Phedi. While walking uphill, you will get to see mesmerizing views of several mountains including Gudang, Syagang, Khatungkan, and Throrug Peak.
Day 12: Trek from Thorong Phedi (4,525m / 14,525ft) to Muktinath Temple (3,760m / 12,623ft) via Thorong La Pass (5,416m / 17,756ft)
Trek Distance: 15.6km / 9.6miles
Highest Altitude: 5,416m / 17,756ft
Trek Duration: 9 hrs
Today's trek will be the most challenging part of this journey, as you will be crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416m / 17,756ft), the highest point on the trek. To avoid the afternoon wind and trek difficulty, you wake up at Thorong Phedi at 3 am and hike uphill to cross Thorang La Pass.
While crossing the pass, you can see the Himalayan peaks including the Annapurna massif.
You descend from Thorong La Pass to reach Muktinath - a sacred site for Hindus and Buddhists. The Buddhist name for Muktinath is Chumig Ghasa which means Hundred Waters in Tibetan. And, of course, Muktinath hosts 2 ponds and 108 stone sprouts.
You will also witness the eternal flame at Muktinath, which has been burning there for more than 2000 years.
Day 13: Drive back from Muktinath to Pokhara
Highest Altitude: 3,762 m / 12,343 ft
After visiting the temple, you will drive back to Pokhara. The road from Muktinath to Pokhara is beautiful with stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains.
On the way to Pokhara, you will pass through traditional villages and stunning mountain views.
The total distance from Muktinath to Pokhara is 175 km / 108.7 miles. You will stay overnight at Pokhara.
Day 14: Pokhara to Kathmandu (By Flight / By Road)
Today is the last day of your journey to Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake Trek. You will return to Kathmandu. You can take a flight that will save loads of time or you can enjoy a scenic drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu.
How Difficult is Annapurna Circuit With Tilicho Lake Trek?
The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is a challenging adventure due to its high altitudes, extensive duration, and diverse terrain.
Trekkers face significant elevation gains, reaching up to 5,416 meters at Thorong La Pass and 4,919 meters at Tilicho Lake, which increases the risk of altitude sickness. The trek typically spans 12-16 days, with daily hikes of 5-7 hours through steep ascents, descents, and occasionally snow-covered paths.
Unpredictable weather conditions can be a problem. Weather can change rapidly, especially at higher altitudes, requiring trekkers to be well-prepared for all conditions.
Preparation is key, requiring good cardiovascular fitness, strength, and prior hiking experience. The remoteness of certain areas necessitates self-sufficiency and readiness for rapid weather changes. Mental resilience is equally important to handle physical fatigue and adapt to unexpected challenges.
Best Time to Trek to Annapurna and Tilicho Lake
The best time for the Annapurna and Tilicho Lake Trek is during the pre-monsoon (Spring) season from March to May and the post-monsoon (Autumn) season from September to November.
Spring and autumn seasons with clear skies, stable weather, pleasant temperatures, and great visibility with no rainfall and clouds allow spectacular views.
The exact temperature and weather conditions change from place to place, but here is a brief description of the weather in Annapurna regions.
Spring Season (March to May)
Spring is among the most popular seasons for trekking the Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake. The weather is generally stable and warm, with temperatures gradually rising as the season progresses. This period is also marked by the blooming of rhododendron forests, adding vibrant colors to the trails.
The average daily temperature in the high elevation ranges from 8°C to 0°C.
The clear skies offer stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. However, the increased popularity means the trails can be crowded, so booking accommodations in advance is advisable.
Summer/Monsoon Season (June to August)
The summer months coincide with the monsoon season in Nepal, bringing heavy rainfall and higher humidity to the Annapurna region. Trekking during this time can be challenging due to slippery trails, landslides, and leeches.
At high altitude, the temperature ranges from 10°C to 23°C during the day, but nights are cooler at 5 to 10°C.
However, the landscape becomes lush and green, and the trails are much quieter compared to other seasons. For those undeterred by the rain, this season offers a more secluded and intimate trekking experience. It’s crucial to have proper rain gear and be prepared for potential delays.
Autumn Season (September to November)
Autumn is considered the best season for trekking the Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake. The weather is stable with clear skies and moderate temperatures, providing excellent conditions for trekking.
Daytime temperatures, at high altitudes, can reach up to 20°C. The nights are cooler with temperatures around 5°C.
The post-monsoon period ensures lush greenery and clear mountain views, making it a photographer’s paradise. The trails are busy, and teahouses fill up quickly, so booking is recommended. Festivals like Dashain and Tihar also fall during this period, offering a chance to experience local culture.
Winter Season (December to February)
Winter trekking in the Annapurna region presents unique challenges and rewards. The weather is cold, particularly at higher altitudes, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snowfall can make some sections of the trail, including the Thorong La Pass, difficult or impassable.
During this time, high altitudes at Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake can get as cold as -10°C. After late February, the temperature gradually rises to -5°C.
However, the winter season offers crystal clear skies and uncrowded trails, allowing for a more solitary and peaceful trekking experience. Proper winter gear and preparation for extreme cold are essential for trekking during this season.
Permits for the Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho lake Trek
You need 2 permits to trek Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake – Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) Card:
TIMS card is for the safety of the trekkers and visitors. TIMS card can be obtained from TAAN Secretariat in Maligaun, TAAN TIMS Counter in Saatghumti, Thamel, and TAAN Pokhara Secretariat in Pokhara.
- Cost of TIMS for SAARC citizens NPR 1000 per person.
- Cost of TIMS for foreign nationals NPR 2000 per person.
- TIMS card is not required for Nepali citizens.
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP):
ACAP is another permit required in the entire Annapurna region. ACAP permits can be obtained in the Tourism Board of Nepal and also in Pokhara.
- Cost of ACAP for SAARC citizens NPR 1000 per person.
- Cost of ACAP for foreign citizens NPR 2000 per person.
- Cost of ACAP for Nepali citizens NPR 100 per person.
- ACAP is Free for a child below 10 years as a child discount.
Packing List for the Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake Trek
Headwear
- Sun hat or brimmed hat.
- Woolen cap.
- Neck gaiter / Microfleece buff.
Handwear
- Lightweight gloves.
- Heavyweight winter gloves.
Bodywear
- Hiking shirts.
- Thermal inner layer / Baselayer set.
- Hooded waterproof jacket.
- Fleece jacket.
- Lightweight cotton pants.
- T-Shirt (bring lightweight wool).
- Down jacket.
- Waterproof jacket and pants.
Footwear
- Hiking Boots.
- Casual shoes or slippers for a teahouse stay.
- Thick wool socks.
- Inner socks.
Gear and Additional Accessories
- Backpack with Rain Cover.
- Trekking Poles.
- Sleeping Bag (If you are trekking in Winter Season).
- Rain Coat.
- Water Bottles.
- Thermal Flask.
- Phone Charger.
- Power Bank.
- Camera and Binoculars (Optional).
- Head Torch with Extra Batteries.
- UV protection sunglasses.
- Crampons (If you are trekking in Winter Season).
- Games and Books (Optional).
Toiletries
- Bio-degradable Towel.
- Toilet paper.
- Wet Wipes.
- Biodegradable soap.
- Deodorant.
- Toothbrush and Toothpaste.
- Nail Clipper.