Nepal · Trekking

16-Day Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal with Tilicho Lake and Thorong La

16 Days Challenging pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Journey to Tilicho Lake (4,919m), one of the world's highest alpine lakes
  • 02 Cross the legendary Thorong La Pass (5,416m), one of the highest trekking passes in the world
  • 03 Experience ever-changing landscapes from subtropical forests to high-altitude deserts
  • 04 Visit Braga Monastery, the largest monastery near Manang
  • 05 Feel the spiritual atmosphere of Muktinath Temple with its 108 sacred stone water spouts
  • 06 Enjoy spectacular views of Annapurna I-IV, Thorung Peak, Nilgiri, Chulu Peaks, Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri, and Lamjung Himal
  • 07 Discover deep gorges, glaciers, waterfalls, and breathtaking lakes along the trail
  • 08 Take in stunning aerial views of the Annapurna Himalaya on the flight from Jomsom to Pokhara

The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake is a classic Himalayan journey that combines high-altitude adventure, dramatic mountain scenery, and cultural immersion in the Annapurna region. Over 16 days, you will travel through terraced farmlands, alpine terrain, and arid trans-Himalayan landscapes, passing traditional villages, ancient monasteries, and sacred landmarks along the way. Highlights include the turquoise waters of Tilicho Lake, one of the world's highest alpine lakes, the crossing of Thorong La Pass at 5,416m, and a visit to the revered pilgrimage site of Muktinath. The journey concludes with a scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara and a return to Kathmandu.

Highlights include the turquoise waters of Tilicho Lake, one of the world's highest alpine lakes, the crossing of Thorong La Pass at 5,416m, and a visit to the revered pilgrimage site of Muktinath.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 16 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Challenging
Accommodation Included · Premium
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Pokhara, Kathmandu, Besisahar, Chame, Pisang, Manang, Yak Kharka, Thorong La, Jomsom, Muktinath, Kagbeni, Dharapani
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu and Annapurna Circuit Trek Journey

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m / 4,593ft)

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our airport representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in a private tourist vehicle. After check-in, you may rest or explore nearby cultural sites around Thamel for your first impressions of Kathmandu.

In the evening, you will meet your trekking guide for a detailed trip briefing, during which the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake itinerary will be explained and any missing trekking equipment will be checked.

Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Thamel

Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu (1,400m) to Dharapani (1,860m / 6,102ft)

You will depart early in the morning by public bus from Kathmandu to Besisahar/Bhulbhule, followed by a shared jeep ride to Dharapani. The journey follows the Marsyangdi River, passing scenic villages such as Ngadi, Bahundanda, Syange, Jagat, Chamje, and Tal.

You will encounter waterfalls, suspension bridges, terraced fields, and snow-capped mountain views. Trekking permits will be registered at the Dharapani checkpoint.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Duration: 8-9 Hours
Distance: 234 km / 145 miles

Day 3: Trek from Dharapani (1,860m) to Chame (2,610m / 8,562ft)

Today's trek leads into cooler alpine terrain. The trail passes through pine forests and traditional Tibetan-style villages such as Bagarchhap and Danakyu, known for apple orchards and mountain views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II.

Continuing through Timang, Thanchowk, and Koto - where the Nar-Phu route joins - you will reach Chame, the district headquarters of Manang, offering shops, internet cafés, banks, and medical facilities.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Duration: 5-6 Hours
Distance: 15.5 km

Day 4: Trek from Chame (2,610m) to Upper Pisang (3,300m / 10,826ft)

The trail winds through pine and rhododendron forests in a dramatic narrow valley. After crossing the Marsyangdi River, the route climbs to viewpoints overlooking Pangdi Danda and Swargadwari Danda.

Passing through Bhratang and Dhikur Pokhari, you will enjoy views of Annapurna II, Pisang Peak, Chulu Peak, and Tilicho Peak before reaching Upper Pisang.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Duration: 5-6 Hours
Distance: 13.5 km / 8 miles

Day 5: Trek from Upper Pisang (3,300m) to Manang (3,540m / 11,614ft)

Today follows the upper route via Ghyaru and Ngawal, offering some of the most spectacular mountain panoramas of the entire trek. You will witness sweeping views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II-IV, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, Glacier Dome, and more.

Passing Tibetan-influenced villages and Buddhist monuments, you will visit Braga Monastery, the largest monastery in Manang, before arriving at Manang village.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Duration: 7-8 Hours
Distance: 17.2 km / 10.6 miles

Day 6: Acclimatization Day at Manang (3,540m)

This rest day is essential for altitude acclimatization. You may take short hikes to Gangapurna Lake, Ice Lake, or nearby viewpoints. Surrounded by glaciers and towering peaks, this day helps your body adjust before heading toward Tilicho Lake.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7: Trek from Manang (3,540m) to Siri Kharka (4,060m / 13,320ft)

Leaving Manang, the trail descends to cross a river before climbing gradually through juniper and conifer forests. After reaching Khangsar Village, you will continue toward Siri Kharka with scenic views of Gungang Himal and Chulu Peak.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Duration: 4-5 Hours
Distance: 12 km / 7.4 miles

Day 8: Trek from Siri Kharka (4,060m) to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m / 13,615ft)

The trail to Tilicho Base Camp is not technically difficult but requires caution due to narrow paths and landslide-prone sections. Along the way, enjoy dramatic rock formations and views of Tilicho Peak before arriving at base camp.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Duration: 4-5 Hours
Distance: 8 km / 4.9 miles

Day 9: Visit Tilicho Lake (4,919m / 16,138ft) & Return to Siri Kharka

An early start takes you to Tilicho Lake, one of the world's highest alpine lakes. Surrounded by Tilicho Himal, Annapurna Range, and Nilgiri, the turquoise lake holds deep spiritual significance and natural beauty.

After spending time at the lake, you will descend back to Siri Kharka.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Duration: 5-6 Hours
Distance: 11 km / 6.8 miles

Day 10: Trek from Siri Kharka (4,060m) to Yak Kharka (4,018m / 13,182ft)

Rejoining the Annapurna Circuit route, you pass Tare Gumba, a thousand-year-old monastery, and continue toward Yak Kharka via Khangsar. Enjoy wide Himalayan views along the plateau.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Duration: 4-5 Hours
Distance: 8.4 km / 5 miles

Day 11: Trek from Yak Kharka (4,018m) to Thorong Phedi (4,550m / 14,927ft)

The trail ascends gradually through Ledar, crossing wooden bridges and ridges with views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Thorung Peak. Arrive at Thorong Phedi, the base camp for the Thorong La crossing.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Duration: 4-5 Hours
Distance: 8.5 km / 5 miles

Day 12: Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass (5,416m / 17,769ft)

This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. A steep ascent leads to Thorong La Pass, offering breathtaking views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Thorong Peak.

After crossing the pass, descend to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site revered by Hindus and Buddhists, famous for its 108 stone water spouts and eternal flame.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Duration: 8-9 Hours
Distance: 15.6 km / 9.6 miles

Day 13: Trek from Muktinath (3,760m) to Jomsom (2,720m / 8,923ft)

Descending through Jharkot, Kagbeni, and Ekle Bhatti, you will reach Jomsom, a windswept trading town in the Kali Gandaki Valley. Enjoy views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Tilicho Peak.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Duration: 8-9 Hours
Distance: 16.4 km / 10 miles

Day 14: Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara (822m / 2,696ft)

Take a scenic early-morning flight to Pokhara, enjoying aerial views of the Annapurna range. The rest of the day is free to relax and explore Pokhara's attractions, including Phewa Lake, World Peace Pagoda, Devi's Fall, and more.

Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Pokhara
Meals: Breakfast
Flight Duration: 30-40 Minutes

Day 15: Drive from Pokhara (822m) to Kathmandu (1,400m)

Return to Kathmandu by tourist bus, following the Marsyangdi and Trishuli Rivers. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy your final evening exploring Thamel.

Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Thamel
Meals: Breakfast
Duration: 7-8 Hours
Distance: 205 km / 127 miles

Day 16: Final Departure

A private transfer will take you to the airport approximately 3 hours before your flight. Optional sightseeing or extension trips can be arranged upon request.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
12 cities · 16 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Kathmandu International Airport बाट pickup & drop (private vehicle)
  • Kathmandu मा 2 रात र Pokhara मा 1 रात - 3-Star Hotel (Bed & Breakfast basis)
  • Trekking अवधिभर 12 रात teahouse/lodge accommodation
  • Trekking समयमा सबै खाना (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
  • ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit)
  • TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Permit
  • Kathmandu → Bhulbhule public bus ticket
  • Bhulbhule → Dharapani shared jeep
  • Pokhara → Kathmandu tourist bus ticket
  • Jomsom → Pokhara domestic flight ticket
  • Pokhara airport बाट hotel सम्म taxi transfer
  • Experienced, English-speaking trekking guide
    (salary, accommodation, meals, transport, insurance सहित)
  • Trekking का लागि duffel bag (porter लिँदा प्रयोग गर्न)
  • Trekking staff (guide) को food, salary, insurance & equipment
  • सबै government tax, VAT, service charge, तथा आवश्यक paperwork

What's Not Included

  • International airfare
  • Nepal visa fee
  • Any type of travel or medical insurance
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Personal expenses such as:
    • alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
    • Wi-Fi, data charges, hot showers, laundry
    • snacks, shopping, and donations
  • Expenses arising from unforeseen circumstances
    (road blockages, flight delays, weather conditions, etc.)
  • Tips / gratuities for trekking guide and porters
    (expected but not mandatory)
  • Personal clothing, trekking gear, and equipment

What to bring

  • Trekking boots (well broken-in)
  • Warm down jacket
  • Waterproof jacket & pants
  • Thermal base layers (top & bottom)
  • Trekking pants
  • Warm hat & gloves
  • Daypack (20-30L)
  • Sleeping bag (cold-rated)
  • Sunglasses & sunscreen
  • Water bottle / hydration bladder
  • Personal medicines & basic toiletries
  • Passport, travel insurance & some cash

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), Ring Rd, Kathmandu, Nepal
End of the journey

Your 16 days finish where they began.

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