Annapurna Circuit Trek via Tilicho Lake
Cross Thorong La and stand beside the world's highest lake
Annapurna Circuit Trek via Tilicho Lake overview
The full Annapurna Circuit with its most spectacular detour: a side trip to Tilicho Lake (4,919 m), widely regarded as one of the highest lakes in the world. This extended route follows the classic circuit through subtropical Marsyangdi Valley villages, climbs into the high, arid Manang district, and diverts off the main trail to camp beneath the sheer wall of the Grand Barrier before reaching the turquoise waters of Tilicho. From there the trail rejoins the circuit near Yak Kharka and continues to the trek's high point, Thorong La (5,416 m), before descending into the Mustang district and the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath. Along the way you'll pass through a dozen distinct ethnic and climatic zones — Gurung and Manangi villages, pine forests, high desert, and the wind-scoured Kali Gandaki gorge, the deepest in the world. This is a serious trekking expedition for those who want the complete Annapurna experience with its most dramatic reward.
Country
Nepal
Duration
16 Days
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Max. altitude
5,416 m (Thorong La Pass)
Best season
Mar–May / Sep–Nov
Difficulty level
Challenging
Itinerary
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, transfer to hotel. Evening briefing on the trek and equipment check.
Price includes
- Airport pick-up and drop-off transfers in Kathmandu
- Experienced English-speaking licensed trekking guide throughout
- Porter service (1 porter per 2 trekkers, 15 kg limit per trekker)
- All tea house / lodge accommodation during the trek
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card
- Kathmandu–Chame ground transport and Jomsom–Pokhara flight
- Pokhara–Kathmandu ground transport
- First aid kit and pulse oximeter carried by guide
- Emergency high-altitude rescue coordination
- Trek completion certificate
What's not included
- International airfare to/from Kathmandu
- Nepal entry visa fee
- Accommodation and meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- Travel and rescue insurance with high-altitude coverage (mandatory)
- Personal trekking gear including sleeping bag and down jacket (rentals available)
- Bottled water, hot showers, and battery charging at tea houses
- Wi-Fi and personal communication costs on the trail
- Alcoholic drinks, snacks, and other personal expenses
- Tips for guide and porters (customary)
Packing tips
Packing right is half the battle on any Himalayan trek. Keep your main bag under 15 kg — your porter will thank you. Everything in your daypack should be accessible on the trail.
Clothing & Layers
- Moisture-wicking base layers (2–3 sets)
- Insulating mid-layer — fleece or down jacket
- Waterproof and windproof outer shell jacket and trousers
- Trekking trousers (convertible zip-off recommended)
- Warm hat, sun hat, and buff/neck gaiter
- Thermal gloves and waterproof over-gloves
- Woollen or synthetic trekking socks (5–7 pairs)
Footwear
- Sturdy, ankle-supporting trekking boots (broken in before the trip)
- Camp sandals or lightweight shoes for evenings at tea houses
- Waterproof gaiters for snow sections
Gear & Equipment
- 30–40 L daypack with rain cover
- Trekking poles (reduces knee stress on descents)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Sleeping bag rated to −10°C (tea house blankets are provided but can be thin)
- Sunglasses with UV400 protection
- Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder (3 L capacity recommended)
- Water purification tablets or a portable filter
Health & Safety
- Personal first aid kit with blister plasters, antiseptic, and pain relief
- Altitude sickness medication (Diamox) — consult your doctor before
- High-SPF sunscreen and UV-protective lip balm
- Insect repellent (lower elevations)
- Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
Frequently asked questions
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