Trip Type
Trekking
Difficulty
Hard
SKILLS PROFILE
No Requirements
ACCOMMODATION
Tea House
DESTINATION
Nepal
Start / End Point
Jagat / Pokhara
Region
Annapurna Region Treks
Duration
20 days
Elevation
5416 M
Seasons
Mar-May, Sep-Nov
Group Size
1 - 14
Popularity
GUARANTEED DEPARTURES
Check upcoming trip dates, availability & prices. If you can't see dates that suite you, contact us we will do our best to assist you.
| GUARANTEED DEPARTURES | PRICE | AVAILABILITY | |
| Jul 4, 2025 - Jul 23, 2025 | $1850 | High | |
| Jul 28, 2025 - Aug 16, 2025 | $1850 | High | |
| Aug 21, 2025 - Sep 9, 2025 | $1800 | High | |
| Sep 4, 2025 - Sep 23, 2025 | $1950 | High | |
| Sep 25, 2025 - Oct 14, 2025 | $1950 | High |
Trek Highlights
Tilicho is one of the highest Lakes in the world that is situated at the elevation of 4,919 m. This trek takes you to the deepest Canyon in Nepal and probably in the world - Kali Gandaki Gorge. Annapurna Circuit is one of the most trekked routes in Nepal.
Why This Trip ?
Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho is one of the most rewarding treks in Nepal. This 20 days trek is designed to give you the closest experience of magnificent Annapurna and the surrounding vivid landscapes that give you the adventure of a lifetime.
Photo Gallery
Dive into our gallery to get a glimpse of the awe-inspiring vistas waiting for you on our guided treks across stunning landscapes.
Short Itinerary
Day
1
KATHMANDU ARRAVIAL (1350 M)
Day
2
KATHMANDU SIGHTSEEING
Day
3
DRIVE FROM KATHMANDU TO JAGAT (1290 M)
Day
4
TREK FROM JAGAT TO DHARAPANI (1860 M)
Day
5
TREK FROM DHARAPANI TO CHAME (2650 M)
Day
6
TREK FROM CHAME TO PISANG (3250M)
Day
7
TREK FROM PISANG TO BRAGHA (3490 M)
Day
8
TREK FROM BRAGHA TO MANANG (3519 M)
Day
9
TREK FROM MANANG TO KHANGSAR (3760 M)
Day
10
TREK FROMKHANSHAR TO TILICHO BASE CAMP (4200 M)
Day
11
TILICHO BASE CAMP TO TILICHO LAKE AND BASE CAMP
Day
12
TREK FROM TILICHO BASE CAMP TO YAK KHARKA (4000 M)
Day
13
TREK FROM YAK KHARKA TO THORANG PHEDI (4538 M)
Day
14
TREK FROM THORANG PHEDI TO MUKTINATH (3710 M)
Day
15
TREK FROM MUKTINATH TO TATOPANI (1190 M)
Day
16
TREK FROM TATOPANI TO GHOREPANI (2850 M)
Day
17
TREK FROM GHOREPANI TO TADAPANI (2630 M)
Day
18
TREK TO GHANDRUK AND DRIVE TO POKHARA (850 M)
Day
19
DRIVE FROM POKHARA TO KATHMANDU
Day
20
DEPARTURE
Comprehensive Trek Guide
The Annapurna circuit trek with Tilicho lake often renowned as one of the most spectacular trekking routes in the world involves traversing the highest pass in Nepal - Thorang La, circuiting around the Annapurna mastiff exploring the highest altitude lake in the world- Tilicho.
The 20 -day trek begins from Jagat, starting from less than 1,000 meters; it provides an opportunity to explore the Himalayas from bottom to top and from varied angles and perspectives. The trek route trails along Marshyangdi River, with great views of Manaslu and Himalchuli to the east.
The spectacular Annapurna circuit trek with Tilicho lake guides through the fine village, inhabited by people from different ethnic groups to the highest point of the Annapurna circuit the Thorong La Pass (5,416m) offering majestic views of the pristine Himalayas and lush green valleys. This trek crosses the Tilicho Lake between Manang and Kali Gandaki valleys before trudging over the 5416 meters high Thorong La passes.
After the Thorong La Pass, our trail advances from Manang to Muktinath from where we head to Tatopani hot springs. Next, we climb to Poon Hill to observe the spectacular sunrise over Annapurna and 20 other mountains before descending to Pokhara where our trek ends.
The Annapurna circuit with Tilicho lake is usually walked in a counter-clockwise direction as traveling clockwise is strenuous, difficult, and often requires longer ascent, which is too difficult for a lot of people.
This tour traversing through the highest pass and exploring the highest lake in Nepal is comparatively physically demanding. Anyone intending to do this trek must be in good shape physically. People with respiratory problems should be cautious and consult their doctor before heading for this trek as the trail elevates up to 5500m. Others must remain adequately hydrated to avoid the risks of altitude sickness.
The trek involves walking along the rocky trails and of course, up close to the Himalayas through several incredibly beautiful villages. So, if you are looking for a challenging yet magical experience near the Himalayas through beautiful Nepali villages then this trip is definitely for you. Experience the adventure of traversing through the Annapurna region of Nepal with the Annapurna circuit trek with Tilicho Lake Trek.
Tipping Recommendation
We recommend allocating 15% of your total tour cost to tipping guides, drivers, and other hardworking staff who ensure your experience is unforgettable. While tipping is not mandatory, it is a meaningful way to support the seasonal workers who dedicate themselves to making your trip extraordinary. By booking with us and participating in the tipping culture, you are directly contributing to Nepal’s local economy and helping sustain the tourism workforce. This support is crucial in retaining talent within the country and addressing challenges like brain drain. Your generosity makes a lasting impact—thank you
Itinerary
Day1
KATHMANDU ARRAVIAL (1350 M)
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
At the arrival section of Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, one of our representatives will be waiting with a placard-carrying your name on it. The airport representative will explain the program upon arrival and escort you to the hotel on a private vehicle. Overnight in Kathmandu;
Day2
KATHMANDU SIGHTSEEING
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel
After breakfast, our Kathmandu tour starts. Kathmandu is an incredibly diverse city with a breathtaking Newari culture, centuries-old Hindu and Buddhists cultural sites alongside a plethora of ancient monuments. The capital of the country is also the home to 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Throughout the day, we will observe most of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu. Overnight stay at the hotel;
Day3
DRIVE FROM KATHMANDU TO JAGAT (1290 M)
Meals: Breakfast,Dinner,lunch
Accommodation: Teahouse
It takes us around 7-8 hours to get to Jagat. Throughout the day, we’ll observe beautiful big rivers, curvy roads, local shops, local life, local bazaars and small hydropower dams on the way. Upon reaching Jagat, we reach a step closer to the mountains. Overnight stay at teahouse;
Day4
TREK FROM JAGAT TO DHARAPANI (1860 M)
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
The ultimate Annapurna circuit trek begins after breakfast. The trail descending from Jagat takes us to a river and then ascends through a lush forest. The further ascent takes us to a sharp-edged cliff facing the riverbank. Advancing with the trail, amidst the glorious backdrop of magnificent Annapurna mountain ranges we reach a beautiful village Chyamje. After crossing a suspension bridge and climbing the slippery and physically challenging steep path, we reach Sattale. Treading along the rock-strewn trails, we descend to a grassy riverbank to Tal. Leaving Tal, we set through rugged and winding path reaching the steeply-forested village of Karte. Admiring the waterfalls and cliffs on the way, we finally reach Dharapani after crossing a suspension bridge. Overnight at Dharapani;
Day5
TREK FROM DHARAPANI TO CHAME (2650 M)
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
On this day, we leave Dharapani and head towards Chame. After a gentle ascent, we reach the beautiful village of Chame. Chame almost looks like a Tibetan village as the people of Chame migrated from Nepal-Tibet trade route a long time ago, and settled here. The customs, houses and the culture here is highly influenced by the Tibetan culture. Chame has lovely views of Mt. Annapurna II, a pair of burbling hot springs where we can dip in and soothe our aching muscles. Overnight at teahouse in Chame;
Day6
TREK FROM CHAME TO PISANG (3250M)
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
A steep narrow path through a very dense forest will bring us to the dramatically curved rock face, rising 1500m from the river. Ascending steepest part of the Marshyangdi Valley, a trail carved into the vertical rock, the valley boasts the majestic vistas. We trek for a while before reaching Upper Pisang where we spend the night. Overnight at the teahouse;
Day7
TREK FROM PISANG TO BRAGHA (3490 M)
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
From Pisang, the high trail enters pine groves to reveal the glorious view of the small turquoise lake Mring Tso. The trail rises upwards to Ghyaru and enters well-cultivated barley and buckwheat field before we reach Ngawal. Ngawal is one of the most picturesque villages in Annapurna. Next, we reach another village, Mungle. From Mungli village, we see our very first view of Tilicho peak. Now trail enters well-cultivated barley and buckwheat farms before we reach Braga. Braga is one of the most picturesque villages in Annapurna. Overnight at Bragha village;
Day8
TREK FROM BRAGHA TO MANANG (3519 M)
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
Manang is approximately 45 minutes far from Braga. The main reason for our stay at Bragha is to acclimatize to the high altitude. Another reason is to visit the fantastic ice lake following another route. The beautiful ice lake adds another highlight to the trek. Overnight at teahouse in Manang;
Day9
TREK FROM MANANG TO KHANGSAR (3760 M)
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
Ascending from old Manang and passing over Jharsing Khola, the trail stays close to the river bed and soon we approach Khangsar, superb view of the Great Barrier open up. There you will find a small monastery, stupas, Mani walls and prayer flags. Overnight at teahouse in Khangsar;
Day10
TREK FROMKHANSHAR TO TILICHO BASE CAMP (4200 M)
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
From Khangsar the trail climbs steeply pas through the Gompa and small Chortens; the trail goes through juniper and sea buckthorn bushes. The path is quite covered by small crystals and shrubs can be seen on both sides. Some places along the trail you cross a few streams. We will also come across the landslide area where we need to make our pace slow and careful. After a decent walk, we reach Tilicho Base Camp from here, we can enjoy the closer and panoramic views of Tilicho Mountain and many others. Overnight at Tilicho Base Camp;
Day11
TILICHO BASE CAMP TO TILICHO LAKE AND BASE CAMP
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
Tilicho Lake (4920 m) is the highest altitude lake in the world. The turquoise fresh water of the lake will take your breath away with its beauty. Early in the morning, we head to Tilicho Lake, it is so beautiful that you will want to spend as much as possible near the lake, but by the afternoon we will need to return to Tilicho Base camp to spend the night;
Day12
TREK FROM TILICHO BASE CAMP TO YAK KHARKA (4000 M)
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
Continuing on from Tilicho base camp, we resume our trek and advance towards Yak Kharka. We make the climb steadily through TenkiManang, leaving the Marsyangdi Valley. Continuing along the JarsangKhola Valley, we reach Yak Kharka at 4,000 m. The trail passes through the meadows and pastures where horses and yak graze. After crossing on a wooden bridge over a small river, the trail passes an ancient old Mani wall leading to Yak Kharka by the lunchtime. From Yak Kharka, we hike to the Chulu West Base Camp and return to Yak Kharka later. Overnight stay at teahouse in Yak Kharka;
Day13
TREK FROM YAK KHARKA TO THORANG PHEDI (4538 M)
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
From Yak Kharka, the trail ascends to Thorang Phedi. After a short climb, we cross a suspension bridge leading to Ledar village. Continuing with our climb uphill, we pass through towering cliffs before reaching ThorangPhedi (the last village before Thorong La pass). The trail overflows with the spectacular views of Mt. Gundang, Mt.Syagang, Thorung Peak and Mt.Khatungkan. Overnight at teahouse;
Day14
TREK FROM THORANG PHEDI TO MUKTINATH (3710 M)
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
It is the most challenging part of the entire trip as it involves crossing the highest pass in the world ‘Thorang La Pass’ (5416 m). We depart early in the morning, to cross the pass smoothly while the weather is favourable. We cross the pass from east to west (Manang to Muktinath). Later in the evening, we reach Muktinath (3710m); celebrated Holy Hindu Shrine at the foot of the Thorang La Pass. Overnight stay at teahouse in Muktinath;
Day15
TREK FROM MUKTINATH TO TATOPANI (1190 M)
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
Today, we drive from Muktinath to Tatopani. A bumpy jeep ride to Tatopani passes through a lot of famous villages like; Jomsom, Marpha, Ghasa etc. ‘Tatopani’ is translated as hot water in Nepali. Upon reaching Tatopani, we can relax at the natural hot Spring and soothe our sore muscles after the strenuous trekking. Overnight stay at teahouse in Tatopani;
Day16
TREK FROM TATOPANI TO GHOREPANI (2850 M)
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
We leave Tatopani and head up the Ghar Khola valley. The route takes us through terraced farmland surrounded by mountains. Passing through the villages of Shikha and Chitre and beautiful rhododendron forest, we reach Ghorepani, a beautiful village located at the ridge. Overnight in Ghorepani;
Day17
TREK FROM GHOREPANI TO TADAPANI (2630 M)
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Accommodation: Teahouse
Early in the morning, we climb along the steep trail to catch the glorious sunrise over the Himalayas from the viewpoint of Poon Hill (3,210m/10,529ft), the most popular trekking destination of the Annapurna region. Poon Hill flaunts the spectacular views of Mustang, Pokhara and more than 20 of the highest mountains including the close-up views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. After spending some time at the Poon Hill, we transverse through beautiful florid Rhododendron forest to the village of Tadapani. Overnight stay at teahouse in Tadapani;
Day18
TREK TO GHANDRUK AND DRIVE TO POKHARA (850 M)
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel
After breakfast, we leave Tadapani and trek through the dense forests towards the beautiful Gurung village of Ghandruk. After 3-4 hours of walk through rhododendron forests, we reach a slope settlement with stone houses of Ghandruk. We then drive towards Pokhara. Overnight stay at hotel in Pokhara;
Day19
DRIVE FROM POKHARA TO KATHMANDU
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel
After 6-7 hours’ drive from Pokhara, we reach Kathmandu where you can prepare for the departure. Rest of the day is for either relaxing or sightseeing around Kathmandu city. Overnight in Kathmandu;
Day20
DEPARTURE
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: -
Swotah will arrange the transfer to the airport depending on your flight time. The airport check-in is 3 hours before the departure time and hotel checkout time is usually at noon.
What's Included
- Airport transfers
- Deluxe rooms in a standard hotel in Kathmandu on twin/double sharing with breakfast
- Guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu
- Accommodations during the trek
- All meals (Breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
- Authorized English-speaking friendly guide along with Porters(3:1) for the trek
- Equipment clothing for porters and guides, including their insurance
- All applicable government taxes
- All expenses for all staff – meals, accommodation, salary, equipment, insurance, transportation
- All necessary paperwork and Annapurna Circuit Trekking Permit, Trekkers' Information Management System fees (TIMS)
- Medical kit (carried by your trek leader)
What's not Included
- International flights; Nepalese visa fee;
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara because of early arrival, late departure, or early return from the mountain due to any reason other than the scheduled itinerary;
- Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu;
- Travel and rescue insurance;
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.);
- Tips for guide(s), porter(s) and driver(s);
Tour Map
Frequently Asked Question
1. Will somebody come to pick me up at the airport upon arrival
Yes, our representative will be there to greet you at the airport. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel by a private car/jeep.
2. Is there an Orientation program
Yes, there is going to be a small orientation/briefing program before we embark on our adventure by the tour manager, leader/guide.
3. What is the overnight accommodation like
For nights in cities, we use standard/superior standard/deluxe rooms whereas, during the trek we use lodges/tea houses/guesthouses/home stay for our clients, whatever is available and accessible. We also arrange sleeping bags for our clients, on their request.
4. How big are the groups
We believe in operating small intimate group to provide personal attention and services to our guests. Small groups can enjoy the trek hassle free and enjoy the customized trip according to their will so we try to keep the group as small as a group of 14 but it can be increased with the special request of the clients.
5. Is this a popular trek
Yes, Adding Tilicho Lake in standard Annapurna Circuit trek further increases magnificence of this trek. Tilicho Lake is one the highest lake in the world in terms of elevation.
6. Can I do solo trek
Nepal is a safe country for anyone who wants to explore on their own although professional guidance is highly recommended by our team for the safety in remote mountainous lands.
7. Is Travelling in Tilicho lake and Annapurna circuit safe for women
Yes, Nepal can proudly boast as one of the safest countries in South Asia for women, you will find people very friendly and respectful towards foreigners especially towards women. Annapurna is one of the most visited areas by the tourists so the service providers are professional and local people are respectful with welcoming hospitality towards the trekkers.
8. What about security during trekking
We make sure to take security measures during trek to make your trip delightful. We hire experienced and license holding guides to safeguard your life in mountains. We suggest you to follow the guide’s instruction carefully and take responsibility for personal belongings. Always keep your valued belongings near you and lock the door from inside during the night.
9. What sort of food can I expect in trekking
Annapurna Tilicho is very popular trekking region among the trekkers hence this region provides a wide range of delicious western meals like Pasta, noodles, pizzas, bread, soup etc. potatoes grown in this region are very delicious which is loved by all the trekkers. Dal Bhat (Rice, Lentils and Vegetables) is a great way to gain energy for the strenuous trek.
10. Is the drinking water safe in trekking region
There are plenty of water stations on each stop on the route. You can easily fill up the bottle from the open taps. We recommend that you bring water purifier tablets with you or at least get it from Kathmandu before you depart for trekking. You can also buy mineral waters but we usually recommend tap water which is pure and it helps us not promoting plastic bottled water.
11. What mode of transportation do you use
We use private car for sightseeing inside the Kathmandu Valley and transfer to Jagat and back from Pokhara to Kathmandu on car, van and deluxe minibus with A/C depending on the size of the group. We also drop and pick up from the starting and ending point of trek on private car or jeep.
12. What is the best season for trekking
Tilicho lake and Annapurna circuit can be trekked all year around excluding monsoon season. February to June and Mid-September to December are the best time to do this trek, although in winters it’s difficult to trek in snow and harsh cold.
13. Will I be taken care of during the emergency
Before coming to Nepal make sure that you are covered by insurance policy for the altitude of 5500 meters. In the case of an emergency like altitude sickness, dehydration or any medical conditions ask your tour leader/guide to contact us as soon as possible so that we can manage/arrange helicopter for the rescue. Then you will be transferred to hospital for the treatment.
14. What is appropriate dress for trekking
Trekking is a tiresome activity that requires a lot of physical movement so pack your active wears and trekking pants for at lower altitudes. Weather at high altitude is unpredictable so carry a lightweight waterproof jacket along with thick down jacket, pant, and thermal innerwear t to escape the severe cold. Needless to say that, Good shoes are very important for trekking in rough and snowy terrain, so invest on good quality shoes or rent it from us at a minimum price. As you are trekking in remote village try to wear modest clothes to quickly gel up with the local people without hesitation.
15. Is it possible to alternate or change the day trips
We customize the trip according to your preference but if you need to change plan during the trek consult the guide.
16. Are your guides reliable and certified
All our Guides are trekking experts holding license from Nepal Tourism Board, Nepal Government. They are the most valuable assets of the company. Guides know the trekking route like the back of their hand and use their expertise in ensuring your safety in the mountains.
17. How can I charge my electronics during the trip
While trekking in higher lands you need to pay for charging the electronics upon request to the owner. The best idea always is to bring your power bank with you. It's easier and cheaper.
18. Is there any communication while we are on trekking
While trekking in Annapurna you can make local and international calls from telephone provided by the guesthouse owner after paying the price directly.
19. Can I add extra days to my trekking trip
If you need extra day to complete the trekking, you'll need to inform the guide in advance and the guide will let the company know. Adding a day to trekking can result in many changes in other arrangements such as transportation, guides' schedule, flight details, hotel bookings and all, so we really don't recommend this to our clients unless there's an emergency cases. But it's true that those changes could be made but it will cost extra. The best way to do it is to inform the agent company about it.
20. What immunizations will I need
Before coming to Nepal make sure you are covered for diphtheria & TB, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, malaria, typhoid, polio and tetanus. Make sure you are in best shape to complete the trekking without any complications.
21. How many hours do I trek each day
Usually, we have to walk about 7-9 hours a day. But it shouldn't be taken as certain thing. Because number of hours of walk really depend on clients' speed. So it's really relative.
22. How will my booking be processed
To confirm your booking, a deposit of 15% of total trip amount is required if you are booking at least a year in advance before trip departure date. If booking is made between 100-364 days before the trip departure, you'll need to pay 20% to confirm the trip. If payment is made between 99-60 days, 25% of the total trip amount will need to be paid and if booked between 59-30 days, 50% of the total trip amount needs to be paid and finally, if you are booking 29 days prior to trip departure, then 100% payment should be made. The payments can be easily made by the bank transfer. The due balance is payable on arrival in Kathmandu with cash (preferably USD/EURO) or card on POS/credit card machine. Please note that non refundable fee is 10% or $200 whichever is greater.
23. Can we use the credit card during the trek
No, you cannot use the credit card during the trekking you have to transfer the money in rupees before you start the trek. You can use the credit card only in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
24. Do we need to carry our bags by our self or you will provide porters
You have to carry your personal bags with water bottle and medicines remaining bags will be carried by porters to make you easy to trek. The weight limit for porters is 15 KG.
25. How difficult is Annapurna Circuit with the Tilicho lake trek
The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek is considered to be quite challenging, due to its high elevation and challenging terrain. The trek begins with a moderate ascent before reaching the highest point of the trek at the Tilicho Lake, at an altitude of 4,800m. From there, trekkers will traverse the Annapurna Circuit and the route will include some steep ascents and descents, as well as some difficult passes. Additionally, due to the high altitude, trekkers may suffer from altitude sickness. Therefore, trekkers should be well-prepared and in good physical condition before attempting this trek.
26. Which month is best for tilicho trekking
The ideal time to embark on a trek to Tilicho Lake is between March to May, and September to November. To ensure you get the best views, starting the trek from the Tilicho base camp in the early morning is recommended.
27. What lake is on the Annapurna Circuit
The lake on the Annapurna Circuit is Tilicho Lake. It is located in Manang District of Nepal, near the border of Tibet.
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