- 16 Days
- 6-7 hrs
- 160–260km
- Spring/Autumn
- Moderate
- Thorong La Pass
- 5416 m
- Hotel/Lodge/Tea House
Overview
Annapurna Region is quite famous for its world-class trekking routes. This region offers many exotic and unspoiled trekking trails. Among them, Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake are very popular among trekkers.
This is a combined package, in which you will be walking the remote routes of this region and visiting one of the famous Lake Tilicho situated at an altitude of 4919 m.
Annapurna region is situated in the north-central part of the Himalayas in Nepal. This Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake lies inside the Annapurna Conservation Area which is one of the largest Conservation Areas in Nepal. Annapurna circuit trek has been often considered one of the best long-distance treks.
The trekking routes for this region were officially opened in the year 1980. Trekkers usually trek these routes anticlockwise to avoid altitude sickness as doing this you climb slowly in higher elevation.
Lake Tilicho is located in the Manang district that is about 220 km (road and trek route) away from Pokhara. This lake is considered to be one of the highest lakes in Nepal. It is a popular side hike destination while trekking in Annapurna Circuit.
On this trek, you will be walking through trails filled with colorful Rhododendron viewing many magnificent mountains such as Mount Tilicho, Mount Annapurna I, Manaslu, Machhapuchhre, Nilgiri, Khangsar, etc.
You also get to see many beautiful Buddhist villages influenced by Tibetan culture. The majority of people living in these areas are Gurung, Thakali and Magar. The warm welcome and hospitality provided by the local residents will be a great memory for you.
Your journey begins as you head out of the busy city of Kathmandu towards Khudi. From where you start your trek towards Sirung and stay there for the night. Then you head towards Tilicho Base Camp walking for many days and staying in lodges for the night.
Reaching the base camp you now head towards Muktinath to Thorong La pass (5416m) the highest point of this trek. You will be passing many small settlements and staying in a few of them.
Returning back to Pokhara you stay there for the night and head back to the capital taking back beautiful memories of this trip.
Radiant Trek brings you Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake itinerary of 16 days. That takes you through beautiful valleys and landscapes viewing unique vegetation of flora and fauna.
Highlights of Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake
- Visit the desert of Nepal i.e. Manang
- Reach the highest point of this trek – Thorong La Pass
- Visit the holy temple – Muktinath
- Marpha village which is renowned for its apple brandy
- Visit the Tilicho Lake
- Learn more about the Tibet influenced culture and traditions
- View many great mountains
- Colorful forests filled with unique flora and fauna
- See Blue sheep in Yak Kharka
- Visit the natural hot spring
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Itinerary
After you land in Nepal you will meet with our representative, who will welcome you at the airport. Then, we will have a brief meet and greet session. Afterward, you will settle in private vehicle and enjoy a scenic ride to your hotel. You can head towards your hotel and have a rest.
In your free time you can visit nearby places. You may explore local markets, cafes or restaurants. The artsy streets of Kathmandu will captivate your heart. You will be delighted to witness unique and surreal architecture of temples or old buildings of Kathmandu.
Day 2 is the trek preparation day. If you need to buy trekking gears and essentials you can visit the shops around city. There are many shops in Thamel and Newroad that rent and sell trekking essentials. On this day we will also have a meeting with the trekking crew. We will provide detailed information about the trek and answer all your queries. We will help you check all the essentials and make all final arrangements accordingly.
Kathmandu Elevation: 1,400 m
Dharapani Elevation: 1860 m
Drive Duration: 8 to 9 hours
distance: 393.4 km
On this day, we will receive you from the hotel, and you will have an adventurous ride to beautiful Dharapani. The drive to Dharapani is exhilarating as you can get to witness stunning views of the surroundings. The verdant hills and beautiful settlements will keep you captivated. Some sections of the road are unpaved, so the ride on this day is thrilling, too. In addition, the sight of the beautiful rivers along the way is mesmerizing. You will pass through places like Khunde, Syange, and Jagat and finally arrive in Dharapani. Upon arriving in Dharapani, you can head towards your teahouse, get refreshed, and have a warm meal prepared by the owner. Staying overnight in a cozy room in Dharapani will provide you with much-needed rest after a long 8 to 9-hour drive.
Dharapani Elevation: 1,960 m
Chame Elevation: 2,710 m
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hrs
distance : 15.7 km
On this day, you will begin the trek through pine, oak and rhododendron forests. Trekking along serene Marsyandi Khola will make you feel refreshed. You will traverse scenic places like Bagarchhap, Timang and Koto. You will get a chance to behold stunning views of Annapurna II and Annapurna IV along the way. Walking through lush forests and witnessing surreal beauty of cascading waterfalls will enhance your trekking experience. After trekking through varied scenic places you will arrive in Koto and get your permits checked. Then you will arrive in Chame, where you will stay overnight.
Chame Elevation: 2,710 m
Pisang Elevation: 3,300 m
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Distance: 13.7 km
You will begin the journey to Upper Pisang in the early morning. You will trek through tranquil pine forests and follow the Marsyangdi River. Crossing the thrilling suspension bridges while witnessing beautiful views of the surroundings will make you feel exhilarated. You have to navigate through the narrow and steep valley and be rewarded with the magical sights of Pisang Peak and Annapurna II.
On this day, you will catch the sightings of Paungda Rock Face, which is enthralling. Soon afterward, you will make it to Dhikur Pokhari by trekking through the lush forests and finally arrive in Pisang. We have arranged your overnight stay at one of the best teahouses in Pisang.
Pisang Elevation: 3,300 m
Manang Elevation: 3,540 m
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Distance: 17.2 km
On day 6, you will trek to the beautiful Manang. The trek starts in the morning after a wholesome breakfast in Pisang. On this day, you will get rewarded with stunning views of Annapurna II, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna III, Pisang, and many other peaks. You will pass through several charming settlements and get glimpses of local culture and lifestyle. You will witness several Monasteries and Mani Walls along the trail.
As you arrive in Manang, you will see many beautiful teahouses, guesthouses and local shops. Many trekkers spend their acclimatization day in Manang, exploring the beautiful surrounding areas. You will stay at one of the teahouses in Manang.
Day 7 is your acclimatization day. Incorporating acclimatization day is important to adapt to the changing surroundings. You can tour around the village and observe their lifestyle and get insights into their culture. On this day, you can see Annapurna III, Chulu Peak, Pisang and many other peaks. Similarly, you can visit Gangapurna Lake and witness the ethereal beauty of surroundings. You can visit the Barga monastery which is the largest monastery in Manang. Similarly, you can also hike up to beautiful Barga Village or visit the Himalayan Rescue Association. After exploring the beautiful nearby places you will trek back to your teahouse, have a warm and delicious dinner, and get rest.
Manang Elevation: 3,540 m
Siri Kharka Elevation: 4,050 m
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Distance: 6 km
After having a wholesome breakfast at your teahouse, you will begin trekking through the serene river and coniferous forest. Some sections of the trail are narrow and steep. The stunning view of Chulu Peak along the trail will captivate you making the journey joyful. Soon afterward, you will arrive in Khangsar. Then, you will continue the trek, walking through serene paths and finally arrive in Siri Kharka.
Siri Kharka Elevation: 4,060 m
Tilicho Base Camp Elevation: 4,140 m
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Distance: 7 km
Your destination for this day is Tilicho Base Camp. You will make your way through the landslide prone areas. The trail is narrow in most of the sections, so you need to be very careful when navigating such paths. The views of unique rock formations add a unique charm to the journey. In addition, you will also witness magnificent views of the pristine Tilicho Peak, which is fascinating. You will arrive at Tilicho Base Camp. Your overnight stay will be at a teahouse at Tilicho Base Camp.
Tilicho Lake Elevation: 4,919 m
Tilicho Base Camp Elevation:4,140 m
Siri Kharka Elevation: 4,060 m
Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours
Distance: 10 km
On this day, you will have the opportunity to witness the ethereal beauty of Tilicho Lake. You will begin the trek early and pass through the steep path. You need to be extra careful while trekking in such paths. After trekking for 2 to 3 hours, you will finally make it to Tilicho Lake. The lake is surrounded by Khangsar, Nilgiri, and Tilicho peaks.
Tilicho Lake has captured the attention of travel enthusiasts worldwide because of its surreal beauty. The sight of the pristine lake surrounded by majestic snowy peaks is phenomenal. You can take your time to admire the beauty of the lake and immerse yourself in the serenity of the surroundings. Then, you will trek back to Siri Kharka and stay at a teahouse for the night.
Siri Kharka Elevation: 4,060 m
Yak Kharka Elevation: 4,040 m
Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours
Distance: 15 km
On this day, you will trek to YakKharka from Siri Kharka. Your journey to Yak Kharka will start early in the morning after having breakfast at your teahouse. You will hike down to Khangsar Village where you will see old and abandoned buildings. The trek passes through tranquil dense forests. You can visit the ancient Tare monastery along the way which will add spiritual touch to your journey.
You will continue the trek and come across a beautiful bridge. Crossing bridge while witnessing the mesmerizing surroundings is invigorating. After covering some more distance you will make it to Yak Kharka. You can then head towards your teahouse and take a much needed rest.
Yak Kharka Elevation: 4,040 m
Thorong Phedi Elevation:4,600 m
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Distance 7.3 km
Your destination for this day is Thorong Phedi. You will pass through the narrow terrain and continue the trek along the bank of the river. Soon afterward, you will cross a suspension bridge, which is exhilarating. The trail takes you to landslide-prone areas, so you should navigate while being careful about every step. However, the enchanting, awe-inspiring vistas are seen along the trail, which enhances your sightseeing experience.
Thorong Phedi Elevation: 4,600 m
Muktinath Elevation: 3,800 m
Thorong La Pass Elevation: 5,416 m
Trek Duration: 7 to 8 hours
Distance: 16.4 km
This day is thrilling and very exciting and also a key highlight of this trek. It is also the most challenging part of the trek. You will head towards Muktinath Temple after having a fulfilling breakfast at Thorong Phedi. The trek requires you to cross the scenic Thorong La Pass. Crossing the scenic pass can be challenging but you will have an unique experience.
You can witness the beautiful views of Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna IV, Machhapuchhree, and many other peaks from Thorong La Pass. You can spend some time witnessing the beauty of mountain vistas and then continue the trek descending to Muktinath.
Upon your arrival in Muktinath, you will be treated to enchanting views of the surroundings. You will witness many hotels cafes, local markets. Similarly, you can also visit Muktinath Temple and witness the prayers. Muktinath Temple holds great significance for Hindus and Buddhists.
You can see many pilgrims who have arrived to take blessings in Muktinath. You can explore the beautiful Muktinath area for some time and then head towards your guest house to get refreshed and get a much needed rest.
Mukti Nath Elevation: 3,800 m
Pokhara Elevation: 822 m
Drive Duration: 7 to 8 Hours
After having breakfast at your guest house you will get in a comfortable Jeep and enjoy the adventurous drive to Pokhara. The roads are bumpy in some sections. However, you will have a delightful riding experience. The scenery of the pristine Himalayan vistas is beautiful. Witnessing the unique landscapes along the way is truly enchanting.
You will pass through alluring places like Kagbeni, Jomsom, Lete, Beni and Kushma and finally make it to Pokhara. After arriving in Pokhara, you can check in at your hotel and get refreshed At night, you may explore the streets of the lakeside area. The streets around the lakeside are vibrant, and you will have the most amazing time wandering around it. After strolling the Lakeside area, you can get back to your hotel and rest.
Drive Duration: 6 to 7 hours
On this day, you can explore beautiful city of Pokhara in the morning. The morning vibe of city is serene. The surroundings of Pokhara look surreal. You can stroll around streets and visit Phewa Lake. Then, after having a fulfilling breakfast, you will get on a comfortable tourist bus and take a scenic ride to Kathmandu. You can witness charming scenery of vibrant towns, lush hills, and the serene Trishuli River. The bus will stop at different scenic spots for refreshment breaks. You will pass through places like Damauli, Malekhu and Naubise and finally arrive in Kathmandu. We will then drop you off at your hotel, where you can get refreshed and get the much-required rest.
On this day, you will take a flight to your home country or next destination. We will help you check out of the hotel and transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport. After a warm farewell, you will board a plane heading towards your destination. You might have concluded your Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek but the unforgettable experiences you had throughout the trek will remain with you forever.
Best Time to Visit Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek
You must be wondering about the best time to visit Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake. Any time you visit will give you new experiences and memories. These routes are challenging so it depends on which season you would like to do the trek.
Nepal has four seasons i.e. Spring, Monsoon, Autumn, and Winter. Below we have provided you some information about these seasons:
Spring (March to May)
This is the season for a new beginning when you get to witness the valley slowly getting its greenery back. During these months the routes are crowded with trekkers.
The weather and temperature are just favorable with clear blue skies. You get to see flowers blooming throughout the forest trails. And also hear the sounds of birds chirping. If you are a nature lover this time of the year is just perfect.
Autumn (September to November)
This is the peak season of the year when nature gets enhanced beautifully. Along with it, the crowd reaches its maximum limit. During these months the beauty of nature that you witness will be astounding.
Already bloomed flora and fauna and the clear view of snowy peaks you get to see in these trails are just mesmerizing. But the crowded routes can be a disadvantage for this season. Finding proper rooms can be a bit difficult.
Winter (December to February)
These months are the coldest month of the year. The routes are filled with snow and the lakes are frozen during this time of the year.
The weather is warm during the day but as the sun sets it tends to get chilly by the moment. You should carry warm clothes for this season.
If you can handle cold this season is perfect for you. The mountain peaks covered with snow look quite remarkable.
Monsoon (June to August)
This season is when heavy downpours make the routes challenging in the lower region. During these months, the paths are slippery and muddy, also you will see leeches along the way.
There are high chances of landslides and flood during this time. Also, the raincloud blurs out the vision of Mountain peaks. But you get to see new species of Flora and Fauna due to continuous rainfall. These routes are filled with the researcher during the Monsoon season.
If you are thinking of trekking during these months then you should carry raincoat and boots along with you.
Real Stories from our TripAdvisor Page
Bradly W2025-04-21Verified Breathtaking Had an amazing time doing the Everest basecamp with our amazing guide Gokarna (Goku) he looked after us and his friendly and calm nature as well as experience in the mountains really made us all feel safe. I am adding Manaslu circuit to my bucket list and coming back to radiant treks! Alex Tsai2025-04-20Verified Incredible Experience on the Manaslu Circuit with Radiant Treks (March 2025) This was my second trek with Gokarna. I did the Annapurna Base Camp trek with him back in 2018, and recently completed the Manaslu Circuit in March 2025. Once again, it was an exceptional experience!Gokarna knows the Manaslu region inside out. He’s incredibly knowledgeable about the route, the villages, and the best places to stay. It was amazing to see how well-connected he is along the trail — locals would often greet him warmly, which added a really personal touch to the journey.He made sure we had the best possible accommodation each night by booking early, ensuring we were comfortable throughout the trek. His guidance was also key to avoiding altitude sickness — always reminding us what to do (and what not to do) to stay healthy and make the most of the experience.If you're planning a trek in Nepal, I can’t recommend Gokarna and Radiant Treks enough. Professional, caring, and deeply passionate about the mountains — you’re in the best hands.— Alex Philippe R2025-04-18Verified Fantastic experience with Radiant Treks We went with my girlfriend on a trek to Nepal in March 2025. We did the Manaslu and Tsum Valley tour. During our hike we had the chance to meet the Radiant Treks team. Gokarna is a great guide. He is very professional, he has a lot of experience in the mountains and his infectious enthusiasm will both distract you and motivate you to advance even on the most difficult climbs. Like us, you will have wonderful memories of the mountain landscapes and the Radiant Treks team! We strongly recommend it! Curiosity023657943332025-04-18Verified Ebc The founder Gokarna guided me and my friends on a EBC trek a few years ago and we got all the support we needed for doing this once in a lifetime hike. It was well organised and we both enjoyed ourselves seeing all the grand views of the Himalayas. Highly recommend this company for all your trekking needs in Nepal! Maryann G2025-04-09Verified Manaslu circuit and Tsum Valley We had the chance to rub shoulders with the Radiant Treks team during our tsum valley trek as well as the manaslu circuit. Gokarna is a professional and involved guide. He has experience in the mountains and will do everything possible to make your mountain experience as pleasant as possible and to keep you memorable.As a bonus his repertoire of stories and songs is inexhaustible and will make you laugh. Miguel L2025-04-07Verified À very best trek with Radiant treks We have been very lucky to book the Ganduk trek with Radiant treks and guided by the manager Godarka which without any doubt is a real professional with a lot of mountain experience. Godarka is taken care of the people, watching if everything is going well, giving his help if need be.So should you intend to go to Nepal for a trek, don't hesitate to book with Radiant treks, you will be fully satisfied. sylvie b2025-04-06Verified Discovery of the trek, Discovery of the magnificent landscape and especially view of Annapurna At the end of 2024 we had as a project a trek in Nepal.we searched for a guide. Gokama from Radianttreks was very quick to respond and the only one followed up our project.trek 3 days to ghandruck 4senoirs.He is young in the trade but professional, punctual, dedicated. Communicate in English. we advise you. Relax210793600382025-04-06Verified Trek inoubliable We are 2 French couples over 70 years old, and we did our 3 day trek with Gokarna. He had been very responsive to our request. It is a professional guide listening. Accommodation in Tolka and Ghandruk was of high quality with hot water.We are delighted , saw sunrise, Annapurna south, and made beautiful encounters with the locals. You could tell how rough life is in this country, but still smiling. We highly recommend the Ghandruk trek and our super guide Cape York Fishi... T2025-03-31Verified Manaslu Circuit with Tsum Valley , AMAZING!! Wow! What an amazing adventure start to finish! As a solo female traveller I had my reservations when trying to book a company but the service I received with Radiant Treks was second to none! From the fast responses back and forward from Nepal to Australia , to the arrival process all the way at through to the end of the hike, no detail was missed! You could tell my guide Gokarna was very experienced on the mountain, he has great character and provided everyone (not just me) with many laughs , mystical stories of the mountains, even pointing out different native plants that can be used as food sources by local villages. I always felt very comfortable and often Gokarna went out of his way at finding me a good room with ensuite toilet where possible , was always very aware of our surroundings and made sure I was comfortable at all times! I honestly can’t recommend this company enough, I saw several other guides providing a very substandard service and I felt very sorry for the guests. I can guarantee this won’t happen with Radiant Treks ! I hiked the Tsum Valley and Manaslu circuit , so amazing!! OnAir240194525002025-03-24Verified GREAT HIMALIYAN EXPERIENCE I went to EBC last year in September.it was my first trek. Gokarna was our guide. He is excellent. He was very patient with us.Under his guidance we conquered our EBCdream.Load more