Nepal · Trekking

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

12 Days Round trip from Kathmandu 44600 Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore close views of the Annapurna range, including Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Annapurna III, Hiunchuli, and the distant Dhaulagiri range
02 Admire the iconic Machapuchare peak, known for its fish-tail shape, visible throughout the trek
03 Walk through Gurung and Magar villages, terraced fields, rivers like Modi Khola, waterfalls, and traditional lifestyles
04 Experience Machapuchare Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp panoramas with glaciers, sunrise views, alpine flora, and wildlife

Embark on a 12-day Annapurna Circuit luxury trek in Nepal and journey through diverse Himalayan landscapes, traditional villages, alpine valleys, and high mountain passes. Experience Tilicho Lake, Thorong La Pass, Manang, Pisang, and Muktinath while enjoying breathtaking views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and the surrounding peaks. Trek through forests, rivers, and suspension bridges, witness rich cultural heritage, and explore high-altitude terrain with expert guidance on an unforgettable adventure that combines nature, culture, and panoramic Himalayan scenery throughout the route in Nepal.

Experience Tilicho Lake, Thorong La Pass, Manang, Pisang, and Muktinath while enjoying breathtaking views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and the surrounding peaks.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 12 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Luxury

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Pokhara, Kathmandu, Chame, Pisang, Manang, Yak Kharka, Thorong La, Jomsom, Muktinath

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Drive from Kathmandu-Bhulbhule to Chame

Drive from Kathmandu-Bhulbhule to Chame (2,710 meters / 8,891 feet), 3-4 hours.

Day 02

Trek from Chame to Pisang

Trek from Chame to Pisang (3,200 meters / 10,499 feet), 6-7 hours.

Day 03

Trek from Pisang to Manang

Trek from Pisang to Manang (3,540 meters / 11,614 feet), 5-6 hours.

Day 04

Acclimatization Day in Manang

Acclimatization day in Manang (3,540 meters / 11,614 feet), 3-4 hours.

Day 05

Trek from Manang to Khangsar

Trek from Manang to Khangsar (3,740 meters / 12,267 feet), 5-6 hours.

Day 06

Trek from Khangsar to Tilicho Base Camp

Trek from Khangsar to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150 meters / 13,615 feet), 3-4 hours.

Day 07

Visit Tilicho Lake and Return to Shree Kharka

Visit Tilicho Lake (4,920 meters / 16,141 feet) and return to Shree Kharka (4,050 meters / 13,287 feet), 8-9 hours.

Day 08

Trek from Shree Kharka to Yak Kharka

Trek from Shree Kharka to Yak Kharka (4,000 meters / 13,123 feet), 3-4 hours.

Day 09

Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi

Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,450 meters / 14,599 feet), 3-4 hours.

Day 10

Trek to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass

Trek to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters / 17,769 feet), 7-8 hours.

Day 11

Drive from Muktinath to Jomsom

Drive from Muktinath to Jomsom (2,710 meters / 8,891 feet), 1 hour at Jomsom.

Day 12

Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara

Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara (827 meters / 2,713 feet), 20 minutes by flight.

Where this trip takes you

Tilicho Lake, Thorong La Pass, Manang highland villages

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Kathmandu 44600 9 cities · 12 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Pick-up from the airport and transportation to the hotel.
Assistance at the airports by a Unique Sherpa Trek & Expedition representative.
2-night hotel accommodations in Kathmandu and Pokhara on a B/B plan at a 5-star hotel.
Domestic flight tickets (Kathmandu - Pokhara - Kathmandu) and airport departure taxes.
A 100% waterproof duffel bag to keep your personal belongings and items to be carried by the porter.
Three meals a day, plus tea/coffee during the trek.
Professional guide, assistant guide, and porters (depending on the size of the travel group) during the trek.
Permit, TIMS, and national park entry fee.
All wages and medical kits for the groups and staff.
Insurance for the guide and porters.
Appreciation certificate after the successful trek by Unique Sherpa Trek & Expedition.
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu before departure, with tea/coffee included with the meal.

What's Not Included

Nepal entry visa fee.
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu, and also in case of early return from the scheduled itinerary.
Extra baggage check-in during the flight (Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu) if more than 15 kg; this extra cost can be paid directly to the airline.
Tips for guides and porters.
Any kind of meal during your stay in Kathmandu (except the farewell dinner).
Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu due to early arrival, late departure, or early return from the trek.
Rescue, medicine, medical tests, repatriation, and hospitalization expenses for climbs.
Any internet, hot shower, drinking water, alcohol, cold drinks, or laundry.
Additional costs incurred due to causes beyond our control, such as natural disasters, weather conditions, itinerary modifications due to safety concerns, emergency evacuation, changes in government policies, strikes, and so forth.
Insurance for clients.
International flight tickets.
Clothing, packing items or bags, personal medical kits, and personal trekking gear.
Any other items not included in the above cost-included section.

What to bring

Essential Clothing - Moisture-wicking base layers (top and bottom)
Insulating layer (fleece or down jacket)
Waterproof jacket and pants
Trekking pants and T-shirts
Warm hat, sun hat, and gloves
Thermal underwear
Comfortable underwear and socks (4 to 5 pairs)
Footwear - Sturdy trekking boots (well broken-in)
Camp shoes or sandals
Warm trekking socks
Gear and Equipment - Backpack (30 to 40L)
Duffel bag (if using a porter)
Sleeping bag (rated to -10°C)
Trekking poles
Headlamp with extra batteries
Water bottles or hydration bladders
Toiletries and Personal Items - Toothbrush, toothpaste, and soap
Quick-dry towel
Sunscreen (SPF 30+) and lip balm
Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
Toilet paper
Health and Safety - Personal medications
Basic first aid kit
Water purification tablets or a filter
Diamox (for altitude, if recommended)
Extras - Snacks or energy bars
Power bank or charger
Camera (great for views of Machapuchare and Annapurna I)
Sunglasses (UV protection)
Documents - Passport and permits (ACAP and TIMS)
Travel insurance details

Know before you go

Altitude Awareness - ABC sits at 4,130 m, so altitude sickness is a real risk. Go slow, stay hydrated, and learn the symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
Physical Fitness - You do not need to be an athlete, but good stamina is essential. Expect 5 to 7 hours of walking daily with many uphill and downhill sections.
Best Time to Go - The ideal seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) for clear views and stable weather.
Permits Required - You need ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System card).
Accommodation and Food - Teahouses and lodges are available along the route with basic but comfortable facilities. Meals are simple, such as dal bhat, noodles, and soups.
Packing Smart - Carry layers for changing temperatures, good trekking boots, and essentials like sunscreen, water purification, and a sleeping bag.
Cash is Important - There are no ATMs on the trail, so bring enough Nepali rupees from Pokhara.
Limited Connectivity - Wi-Fi and mobile signals are limited or paid in higher areas, so be prepared to disconnect.
Guide and Porter - Hiring experienced Sherpa guides enhances safety, navigation, and the cultural experience.
Trail Conditions - Expect stone steps, forests, suspension bridges, and alpine terrain. The weather can change quickly, especially near Machapuchare Base Camp.

Logistics