Nepal · Trekking

18-Day Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal with Tilicho Lake and Poon Hill

18 Days Challenging pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Scenic journey to Tilicho Lake (4,920m), one of the highest lakes in the world
  • 02 Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m), one of the world's highest trekking passes
  • 03 Visit Muktinath Temple and its sacred 108 stone water spouts revered by Hindus and Buddhists
  • 04 Watch a breathtaking sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges from Poon Hill
  • 05 Explore rhododendron forests, Gurung villages, and charming settlements around Ghorepani
  • 06 Take in panoramic views of Annapurna, Thorung Peak, Nilgiri, Chulu, Tukuche Peak, and Dhaulagiri
  • 07 Experience Tibetan Buddhist culture in Braga and Manang
  • 08 Relax in the natural hot springs at Tatopani

The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake and Ghorepani Poon Hill is one of Nepal's most diverse and rewarding trekking adventures, combining high mountain passes, pristine alpine lakes, cultural villages, and world-class viewpoints. Highlights include Tilicho Lake at 4,919 meters, the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath, and the thrilling crossing of Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters. The route passes through lush valleys, terraced farmlands, traditional villages, and high-altitude landscapes, while offering rich cultural encounters in the Manang and Mustang regions. The journey also includes Tatopani's natural hot springs and the unforgettable sunrise views from Poon Hill over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. With proper acclimatization and the support of experienced guides, this is a demanding yet deeply rewarding Himalayan trek.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake and Ghorepani Poon Hill is one of Nepal's most diverse and rewarding trekking adventures, combining high mountain passes, pristine alpine lakes, cultural villages, and world-class viewpoints.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 18 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Challenging
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Pokhara, Kathmandu, Besisahar, Ghorepani, Chame, Pisang, Manang, Yak Kharka, Tatopani, Muktinath, Dharapani
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu and Annapurna Circuit Trek Journey

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu - Hotel Check-in - Trip Meeting

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from Marvel Treks will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in a private tourist vehicle. After check-in, you may rest or explore nearby areas of Kathmandu.

Trip Meeting:
At 14:00, a detailed trek briefing will be conducted at the Marvel Treks office, covering the itinerary, safety measures, and equipment check.

Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Thamel

Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani (1,860m)

Early morning transfer to the bus station, followed by a scenic drive to Besisahar via Bhulbhule. From Besisahar, continue to Dharapani by shared jeep. Enjoy views of waterfalls, suspension bridges, villages, and the Marsyangdi River valley. Permit checks are completed at Dharapani.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Duration: 8-9 hours

Day 3: Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2,610m)

Trek through alpine forests and Tibetan-influenced villages such as Bagarchhap and Danakyu. Pass apple orchards and enjoy views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II before reaching Chame, the district headquarters of Manang.

Accommodation: Tea House / Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Duration: 5-6 hours

Day 4: Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang (3,300m)

Walk through pine and rhododendron forests, cross suspension bridges, and admire dramatic rock faces and Himalayan scenery. Reach Upper Pisang, offering outstanding views of Pisang Peak and the Annapurna range.

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

Day 5: Trek from Upper Pisang to Manang (3,540m)

Follow the upper trail via Ghyaru and Ngawal for panoramic mountain views. Experience Tibetan Buddhist culture and visit villages like Braga before arriving in Manang.

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

Day 6: Acclimatization Day at Manang

Rest and acclimatization day. Optional hikes to Gangapurna Lake, Ice Lake, or nearby viewpoints to help your body adjust to altitude.

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

Day 7: Trek from Manang to Siri Kharka (4,060m)

A gradual trek via Khangsar village through forested trails and high-altitude landscapes with excellent views of Chulu and surrounding peaks.

Day 8: Trek from Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m)

Traverse narrow and landslide-prone trails to reach Tilicho Base Camp, surrounded by rugged mountain terrain and dramatic rock formations.

Day 9: Hike to Tilicho Lake (4,920m) - Return to Siri Kharka

Early morning hike to the stunning Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world. After enjoying the scenery, descend back to Siri Kharka.

Day 10: Trek from Siri Kharka to Yak Kharka (4,018m)

Descend via Khangsar and visit the ancient Tare Gumba monastery before continuing to Yak Kharka.

Day 11: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,550m)

Gradual ascent through Ledar and alpine terrain, preparing for the Thorong La Pass crossing.

Day 12: Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m) - Trek to Muktinath (3,760m)

A challenging but rewarding day crossing the iconic Thorong La Pass, followed by descent to the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath.

Day 13: Drive from Muktinath to Tatopani (1,190m)

Shared jeep drive through the Kali Gandaki Valley to Tatopani. Enjoy a relaxing soak in natural hot springs.

Day 14: Trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani (2,880m)

Steep ascent through terraced fields and villages such as Shikha and Ghara, eventually reaching Ghorepani.

Day 15: Poon Hill Sunrise - Trek to Tikhedhunga (1,540m)

Early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) for a breathtaking sunrise over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, then descend to Tikhedhunga.

Day 16: Trek from Tikhedhunga to Nayapul - Drive to Pokhara

Final trekking day through Birethanti and Nayapul, followed by a private transfer to Pokhara.

Day 17: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

Scenic tourist bus drive back to Kathmandu. Evening farewell dinner hosted by Marvel Treks.

Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Kathmandu

Day 18: Final Departure

Private airport transfer arranged as per your flight schedule.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
11 cities · 18 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu
  • 3-star hotel accommodation with breakfast in Kathmandu (2 nights) and Pokhara (1 night)
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during the trek
  • Best available teahouse accommodation during trekking
  • All ground transportation as per itinerary
  • Required trekking permits and fees
  • Professional licensed trekking guide (salary, insurance, meals, accommodation)
  • Water purification tablets
  • Annapurna region pocket map

What's Not Included

  • International airfare and Nepal visa fee
  • Travel insurance (mandatory, including high-altitude evacuation)
  • Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except breakfast)
  • Porter service (available at additional cost)
  • Personal expenses (drinks, laundry, phone calls, tips, etc.)
  • Expenses due to unforeseen circumstances (road blocks, weather, delays)

What to bring

  • Trekking boots (well broken-in)
  • Warm down jacket
  • Waterproof jacket and trousers
  • Thermal base layers
  • Trekking pants and shirts
  • Fleece or insulating mid-layer
  • Warm hat, sun hat, and gloves
  • Sleeping bag (rated for sub-zero temperatures)
  • Daypack (30-40L)
  • Trekking poles
  • Sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen
  • Reusable water bottle / purification tablets
  • Headlamp with spare batteries
  • Personal toiletries and quick-dry towel
  • Personal medications and basic first-aid kit
  • Passport, permits, and some cash

Know before you go

  • This is a demanding trek that requires good physical fitness and proper acclimatization.
  • Travel insurance is mandatory and must include high-altitude evacuation.
  • Porter service is available at an additional cost.

Logistics

Meeting & route

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

Your 18 days finish where they began.

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