Annapurna Tilicho Trek

Starting Trip Price
$1700USD
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Trip Facts

  • Destinations: Nepal
  • Total Duration: 23 days
  • Trekking Duration: 18 days
  • Trip Grade: Medium Hard
  • Max Elevation: 5416m
  • Best Season: October to December, February to May
  • Walking Hours: 5-6hrs
  • Styles: Tea House
  • Starting point of trek: Bhulbhule
  • Finishing point of trek: Naya Pul
  • Meals and Drinks: Guest houses managed by local people

Trip Map

  • Destination:Nepal

Annapurna Tilicho Lake is in the area of Annapurna Circuit Trek from three days side trip from Manang village. Annapurna Circuit Trek is well-known and popular in the world. It is one of the classic treks of Nepal. From 760m starts gradually as it climbs through the subtropical jungle to Tibetan influenced valley above Dharapani, Thorung La (5416) which separates two different districts Manang and Mustang into the world’s deepest river gorge Kali Gandaki. The Kali Gandaki valley a desert-like and barrel meadow. The gravel road has affected the trek but there are side trips alternative trails. The winding trails through rice terraces and follows up along the Marsyangdi River gorge into the Manang region. The trek offers you mixed culture Gurung, Manangi, Tibetan, and Magar. The excellent views of the Annapurna north side, Manaslu and Dhaulagiri (8172m).

Tilicho Lake is well-known the highest situated at (4950m). From Manang village, three days walk to the lake. The Tilicho Mountain stands up from the east side of the lake. In the winter it remains frozen ice. The lake has more than 4 km length and 1.2 km in width. The average depth is 85m. According to the Hindu religion, the lake is holy that is written in Ramayana. On the side of the lake, there are two basic tea houses to serve food, tea, coffee, and hot drinks. To be at the lake helps trekkers enough acclimatization to pass the Thorung La Pass easy.

The route explores through some impressive high exposed villages are Pisang,(3400m), Ghyaru (3670m), )Nawal(3657m) Braga (3500m), and Manang (3540m) which have traditional roofless tied houses with colorful prayer flags some ancient gompas. Manang is the biggest village among them. Brathamg (2860m) and Jomsom (2670m) offer the biggest orchard in Nepal. After passing out Manang the landscape without forest just tundra grass and pine where blue sheep are walking on hills and ridges. After Thorung La enters the territory of Mustang another district. An arid zone like desert brown.

The Annapurna Tilicho Lake trek rewards with a long mountain range views of Lamjung Himal (6983m), Annapurna 11 (7937m), Annapurna I (7555m), Annapurna 111 (7525m), Gangapurna (7454m) and Tillich Peak (7134m). View of Mt Mananalu (8162m) to the east side and from Manang valley north direction, peak views are Pisang peak (6091m), Chulu East (6018m), and Chulu West (6419m). Throng Peak is just left side of Throng La stands with 6201m. After crossing, Thorung La another side of mountain views is Mt Dhaulagiri (8172m), and its range and other closed peaks are Nilgiris North (7061m), Nilgiri Central(6091m) and Nilgiri South (6419m). This trekking route is really and definitely worthful to entertain your vacation to do the trek with these diversities nature.

Outline Itinerary

  • Day 1 Arrival in Kathmandu
  • Day 2 Sightseeing Swayambhu, Boudha and Durbar square
  • Day 3 Drive to Besi Shar (760m) by car (5hrs) Beshi Shar to Bhulbhule (3hrs) (840m)
  • Day 4 Bhulbhule to Jagat (6-7hrs) (1360m)
  • Day 5 Jagat to Dharapani (6-7hrs) (1900m)
  • Day 6 Dharapani to Chame ( 5-6hrs) (1900m)
  • Day 7 Chame to Upper Pisang( 4-5hrs) (3300)
  • Day 8 Upper Pisang to Manang (6-7hrs) (3540m)
  • Day 9 Acclimatization day in Manang
  • Day 10 Manang to Shree Kahrka (4046m)(3- 4hrs)
  • Day 11: Shree Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp (4140m) (3-4hrs)
  • Day 12: Visit Tilicho Lake (4950m) back to Shree Kharka: (6 -7hours)
  • Day 13: Shree kharka to Yak kharka (4040m/13,020ft):4-5 hours
  • Day 14 Yak Kharka to Thorung Phedi (3 -4hrs) (4550m)
  • Day 15 Thorung Phedi to Muktinath (7-8hrs) (3800m)
  • Day 16 Muktinath to Marpha (6-7hrs) (2670m)
  • Day 17 Marpha to Kalopani ( 5-6hrs) (2535m)
  • Day 18 Kalopani to Tatopani (6-7hrs) (1200m)
  • Day 19 Tatopani to Ghorepani (6-7hrs) (2850m)
  • Day 20 Ghorepani to Pokhara via Naya Pul (6-7hrs)
  • Day 21 Rest day or Sightseeing in Pokhara
  • Day 22 Fly to Kathmandu
  • Day 23 Departure from Kathamndu

Day 1 Arrival in Kathmandu

When you arrive at Katmandu International Airport then transfer to your hotel. A short
briefing is given concerning trekking itinerary.

Day 2 Sightseeing Swayambhu, Boudha and Durbar square

Day 3 Drive to Besi Shar (760m) by car (5hrs) Beshi Shar to Bhulbhule (3hrs) (840m)

From upper at the end of Besi Shar, the route to Bhulbhule descends and follows along the road to Bhulbhule. Two hours walk to Khudi village has 2 simple lodges. From Khudi cross a side-stream and continues to Bhulbhule at the bank of the river. There are some common lodges available.

Day 4 Bhulbhule to Jagat (6-7hrs) (1360m)

The trail to Jagat diverts to the right east bank of the river. The route wanders through an impressive waterfall and rice fields. 90 minutes distance Nagdi village where there are few numbers of lodges. The flat road to Lampata then a few minutes ahead the route climbs up to Bahundanda (1270m) (hill of Brahmin) on the right side of the river. The police check post asks you to register. Descending to the rice fields and then walking flat to just before Lili Bhir. The trail with railing through rocky area leads to the village of Khani gaon. From here 20 minutes distance to Ghermu village which offers views of the long waterfall on the other side. From Ghermu the trail to Marsyangdi on a long suspension bridge at Syange. The riverside trail along the roadside climbs to the steep uphill a short trail climbing and then down to Jagat (1330m). Jagat has many more lodges with a nice dining room. People are mixed Gurung and Tibetan.

Day 5 Jagat to Dharapani (6-7hrs) (1900m)

From Jagat, the trail leads to Ghatte Kholla then a stiff climb right side an amazing waterfall. Ten minutes away is Chamje has half dozen lodges along the road. From the main road, the trail sets to the bank of the river then climb a rocky path that leads through fields and bamboo. A short descent then climbs steeply about 30 minutes to enter the gate of Tal (1700m) means ‘lake’. Tal is a beautiful town has 25 lodges well managed them. Shops and teahouses are along the path. The flat trail continues to a suspension bridge across the Marsyangdi then gently climb up past Karte. Across a bridge then on the left side enters to the bamboo bush along the river. Just before reaching down Dharapani again cross a bridge. Dharapani has a police check post, ACAP permit, and several lodges.

Manaslu Larke Pass route joins in Dharapni.

Day 6 Dharapani to Chame ( 5-6hrs) (1900m)

Beyond Dharapani the trail gradually climbs over in partly forests. One hour away is Bagarchap has 4 lodges. If the weather is clear views of Lamjung Himal (6986m) Annapurna ii (7935m) and Manaslu Himal are seen. The trail continues to Danaque has a dozen lodges. From Danaque the trail climbs steeply through rhododendron and maple forests to stream hydropower and then climb up to big settlement Timang village (2630m). It is excellent views of Manaslu. The route leads north side to Thanchowk is a most traditional village with typical Tibetan architecture. The flat trail past through pine forests to Koto where there is a police check post to register permit. It is the gateway to Nar-Phu valley trek. Thirty minutes distance is Chame is district headquarter of Manang. There are banking service, internet service and varieties of shops. Big number of lodges is along with the town. Lamjung Himal appears just above Chame.

Day 7 Chame to Upper Pisang( 4-5hrs) (3300)

Further Chame a bridge is a cross on the river then on the left north impressive Kani (gate). Climb gently trail looking back is to see views of Manaslu. Telku a tiny village comes on the way from here further walk through pine trees to Bhratang where a teahouse and apple orchard one of the biggest in Nepal. The trail climbs along the bank of the river which is crossed then a short steep walk to a resting place. Just the north right side stands Paungda Danda (hill) rock face with an amazing curved slab of rock in black. About 40 minutes distance is Dhukur Pokhari (dove pond) mainly for lunch place. The flat trail to the Marsyandi Khola over it a bridge and then right side up through groves of pine leads to Upper Pisang is a traditional village of Manangi. Monasteries, a row of chortens, prayer wheels and village are nice to visit them.

Day 8 Upper Pisang to Manang (6-7hrs) (3540m)

To go to Manang there are two routes lower and upper routes. The lower one is easier and faster via Humde upper is better views and three hours long. From Upper Pisang, the trail enters to groves of pine to a suspension bridge. From the bridge winding trail steep up to Gyaru (3670m) village with a white chorten. The views of Annapurna ii and Annapurna iii are superb. Pisang peak and Chulu east are seen. From Gyaru the trail past Kani (gate) gradually up the hilly landscape for a long walk the finally Ngawal (3660m). Nar-Phu valley trek route joins here. From Ngwal the trail hill down through groves of pine to Julu. On the right side, up eroded cliffs look amazing. The flat trail leads to Mugje (3500m) then 30 minutes away is Bragha (3470m) one of the most picturesque villages with Bragha monastery 500 years old. The flat path leads to Manang where WEL-COME TO Manang written on a big gate.

Day 9 Acclimatization day in Manang

Extra day acclimatization in Manang for the higher elevation. Manang is a big village has several lodges and guesthouses are throughout the village. There are 500 to 600 flat-roofed traditional houses separated by narrow alleys. People of the village are Manangi similar to Tibetan. Chongar View Point, Praken Gompa, Manang Museum, Himalaya Rescue Association, and Gangapurna Glacier make you busy. For hiking to Chongar View Point, one of the easier trips is to descend to the bridge from Manang and climb the spine of glacial moraine to the Chongar View Point top a hill festooned with prayer flags. There are nice views of the Gangapurna icefall, Manang village, and valley. Praken Gompa meditation retreat on the hillside above Manang. An old Lama lives in the Gompa who bless your success Throng La Pass.

Day 10 Manang to Shree Kahrka (4046m)(3- 4hrs)

Leaving behind the Manang village the trail to Shree Kharka goes to the west north on the left side and Thorong La main trail goes to right side up. The Shree trail turns left and descends to the Thorong Khola. A suspension bridge is crossed on the confluence of Marshyangdi and Thorong Khola. A short steep trail leads onto a ridge and then a wide trail passes through farm fields, pine forest and reaches in Khangsar the last settlement of Manang village. The village has a model of houses are similar to Manang old houses. There are about half dozen lodges are common. From Khangsar a steep trail passing through juniper and forest on the way left side there is Thare Gompa from here 20-30 minutes to Shree Kharka where three lodges serve trekkers.

Day 11: Shree Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp (4140m) (3-4hrs)

The trail to Tilicho Base camp seems to be not very steep while walking there we cross at 4200m from this point the path descends eroded and landslide area where narrow path with scary. Stones and soil rolldown by wind and wild animal. On this day there is possible to see mountain goats or blue sheep. Steep down directly we can see The Marshyangdi Khola. As we finish crossing difficult landslide part then gradually climbing trail to Base camp where there are two lodges Tilicho Base Camp Hotel and New Tilicho Hotel which are overcrowded with tourists in main seasons. Today is possible to see blue sheep (Mountain goats).

Day 12: Visit Tilicho Lake (4950m) back to Shree Kharka: (6 -7hours)

After breakfast, our trekking starts climbing up about 800m to reach the Lake. The trail starts with a steep, switchbacked ascent to the northwest direction on a zigzag path. 45 minutes before the lake the walking time on the moraine. The lake is situated at the foot of Tilicho Peak(7134m) which covers 4km long and 2.5km in wide. The viewpoint of the lake is amazing. there is a common lodge to serve you food and drinks. Prayer flags flap and the lake is amazing in blue color. Very often between October to May it remains in frozen condition. The lake is believed as sacred for Hindu who try to pray and touch it if possible in their life. Mesokanta Pass goes on the right side of the lake. Reverse to the base camp for lunch and retrace to Shree Kaharka.

Day 13: Shree kharka to Yak kharka (4040m/13,020ft):4-5 hours

We leave Siri Kharka and descend towards Khangsar Village. On the way, we pass Tare Gumba, a thousand-year-old monastery which is very important to the local people. Upon reaching Khangsar Village we realize that it is uninhabited except for occasional herders during festival times. We follow a rock wall out of Khangsar. We walk furthermore until we reach a seasonal bridge in the Thorang Khola valley. After crossing the river, we ascend for a while to a plateau. Next, walk furthermore until reaching Yak Kharka. Overnight in Yak Kharka meaning is Yak house and grazing place. yak pasture, scrub juniper and to see yaks grazing on the hillside. There are 7 lodges in lower and upper Yak Kharka. Further climbing up about 40 minutes walk to Ledar (4200m). Just before Ledar across a suspension bridge. There are 4 lodges along the trail.

Day 14 Yak Kharka to Thorung Phedi (3 -4hrs) (4550m)

Further climbing up about 40 minutes walk to Ledar (4200m). Just before Ledar Throng Phedi trail continues to climb along the right side of Kane Khola. Blue sheep in the group appear on the hill side and yaks are grazing on the grassy land. Then the route descends to the Khola. Two trails separate left side down is suspension bridge and the other one right side one wooden bridge. From the bridges climb up to a teashop and then flat route through landslide stone falling zone to Throng Phedi means (foot of the hill). There are 2 lodges named Throng Base Camp and Hotel New Phedi. The lodges have enough rooms. There is another lodge Throng High Camp (4835m) an hour steep up. This evening most of the trekkers go to bed early for the next day Throng La Pass (5416m). Horse riding hire over Thorunng La Pass available at Throng Phedi.

Day 15 Thorung Phedi to Muktinath (7-8hrs) (3800m)

On this day, most of the trekkers start to walk early morning at 4 to 5 to avoid strong wind and bad weather to reach on top of the pas on expected time. From Thorung Phedi the trail is steep to the High Camp then up moraines and following rocky ridges as it ascends to the pass. The route is usually snow-covered in the main winter. From High Camp, the trail climbs through in and out of canyons formed by moraines. Poles mark the trail. About an hour above the High Camp there is a small teahouse at 5030m. Abut twenty minutes before the teashop there is a bridge to cross. From the teahouse, it takes 2 hours to Thorung La Pass (5416m) with traditional chorten, prayer flags, and stone cairn. The pas separates Manang and Mustang. The views from the pass are excellent in every direction. On the right side Yakawang (6482m) and on the left side Thorung Peak (6201m). From the pass, the descent 1216m to Chabaru (4200m). It takes 3 hours to descend to Chabaru where there are 4 lodges mainly for lunch place. From Chabaru the route through meadows to Muktinath. Muktinath is now a day ruined by modern houses. Muktinath is a temple religious shrine for both Hindu and Buddhist. Because of this temple whole village named Muktinath means (salvation). The temple has 108 brass waterspouts. A short walk down left side there is Dhola Mebar Gompa or Goddess of fire Temple where natural flame burns. Banking service and transportations like a motorbike, jeep, bus and pony services are available.

Day 16 Muktinath to Marpha (6-7hrs) (2670m)

Today’s descending 1100m through Jharkot, Khingar and Ekle Bhanti villages. Excellent view of North Nilgiri (7061m) and barrel brown desert hills and meadows make you happy. After midday, a strong wind blows between Eklle Bhanti and Jomsom. Jomsom is district headquarter of Mustang. People of Jomsom are Thakali who are Buddhist and their income source is business and tourism. These ethnics are believed Mongolian race. There is an airport which is one of the busiest in the hilly region flights from Pokhara to Jomsom. In Jomsom, every day after twelve o’clock a strong wind blows due to it no flight after it. Jomsom to Marpha walking hour maximum 2hrs. Marpha is famous for the apple orchard. Most of the traditional houses are flat roof mud. Nice to see the beautiful village of Thakali inhabitant. Right side up a monastery named Tashi Lhakhang. Locally produced apple cider and apple brandy and dried fruits are available any season. Traditional houses are well preserved by local people.

Note: If you want to break off your trekking the option is fly from Jomsom to Pokhara.

Day 17 Marpha to Kalopani ( 5-6hrs) (2535m)

Today’s trail descends to left side of Kali Gandaki River. The trail enters through beautiful green forests one of the best green view and views of Kali Gandaki gorge. While walking if weather clear then views of Mt Dhaulagiri (8172m) Tukuche Peak (6920m) and villages are great. During the day, we pass small and beautiful Thakali villages Chimanggaon, Sauru has apple groves and further last villages are Kokhethanti and Dhampus. A short suspension bridge joins Dhampus to Kalopani is a small village surrounded by forests. Good and comfortable guest houses are available. From Kalopani left north side Mt Dhaulagiri, Tukuche peak and southeast side Nilgiri South (6839m) and Annapurna 1 (8091m) can be seen clearly.

Day 18 Kalopani to Tatopani (6-7hrs) (1200m)

We walk down about 2 hours along the gravel road up to Ghasa is the last border of Mustang. The national park permit is checked. From Ghasa the trail descends to a suspension bridge on Kali Gandaki River then the trail leads through the bottom of cliffs and small villages Kopchepani, Gadpar and Narchyang on the left side of the river bank. The villagers are Magar and tropical vegetations are found. Tatopani means’ hot water’ just before reaching it we cross a belly bridge then Tatopani appears. There are about more than half a dozen good and normal guest houses. Tatopani community has made two hot spring cement ponds to have hot spring entry fee Rs 100.

Day 19 Tatopani to Ghorepani (6-7hrs) (2850m)

From Tatopani 30 minute walk then to cross a suspension bridge on Kali Gandaki and Ghar Khola. A steep ascent to a rocky spur called Durbin Danda from here the trail makes gentle ascent across terrace fields, Ghar, Shikha, and Chitre are Mangar villages. Chitre to Ghorepani is one hour and trail through a deep forest of rhododendron. Ghorepani means ‘horse water’. Lower Ghorepani and upper Ghorepani both together there are more than 2 dozen lodges and few shops. People prefer to stay in upper reason is nice views of mountains and valley villages. Ethnics of this area are Magar who are well known in the British and Indian Army.

Day 20 Ghorepani to Pokhara via Naya Pul (6-7hrs)

Early morning hiking to Poon Hill to see the sun rise and panorama views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Himalaya ranges. Most people reach Poon Hill before sunrise. From Ghorepani, it takes 1 hour climbing up Poon Hill. Poon Hill is a panorama viewpoint to see Mt Dhaulagiri, Tukuche peak (6848m), Nilgiris and to Annapurna 1, Hiunchuli (6441m), Annapurna South (7219m) and Machhapuchhare (6997m). On top of Poon Hill stands Poona hill Tower just nearby a tea shop serves you hot drinks for local business. Back down to the lodge after breakfast a long day of descending to Naya Pull. The trail heads to forest area max 2 hrs then stone staircase path Ullery village (2000m). From here a steep down to Bhurungdi Khola to cross it a suspension bridge and another a bridge on Tikhedhunga Khola. 10 minutes walking up Tikhedunga arrives further 15minutes to Hile village (1430m). The trekking trail finishes in Hile to Naya Pul about 3 hrs walking down along the gravel road through Sudame village. From Naya Pul a car or a van drive you to Pokhara.

Day 21 Rest day or Sightseeing in Pokhara

Day 22 Fly to Kathmandu

Day 23 Departure from Kathamndu

You are assisted to reach at the airport by our staff. You have to reach at the airport 3 hours before your plane leave.

Cost Includes

  • Airport pick-up and drop off.
  • Three nights hotel accommodation and breakfast in Kathmandu.
  • Licensed trained trekking guide.
  • Porters to carry goods.
  • Accommodation (breakfast, lunch, dinner) included coffee & tea.
  • Transportation by land and air.
  • All necessary documents permit for trekking.
  • National park/ conservation area entry permit.
  • City tour in Kathmandu (Durbarsquare, Swayambhu, Boudha stupa.)

Cost Excludes

  • International air fare
  • International and airport departure tax
  • Travel trekking insurance
  • Major meals, lunch, dinner during stay in Kathmandu
  • Excess baggage charge more than air lines allowed both domestic and international
  • Personal expenses such as alcoholic beverages, drinks, phone & laundry
  • Visa fee (easily get on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airportand
  • Tips for trekking
  • field staffs
  • Rescue travel insurance, trips cancellation costs, accident or health emergency, lost
  • theft and damage to baggage

Equipments & Gears

Trekking shoes-  1pair

light shoes-  1pair

slipper-  1pair

down jacket - 1

trekking pant -  2pair

tights-  2pair

t-shirt-  4

gloves

hat

woolen cap

sunglasses

raincoat

headlamp

walking stick

water bottle

sleeping bag

trekking bag waterproof

changing clothes

sun cream

reading books 

indoor games

Cost and Dates

Find Dates
Trip Start Date Trip End Date Price Availability Book
11th September, 2019 27th September, 2019 Guaranteed Book Now

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Sam Rock,
United Kingdom

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Jean Clause,
USA

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Australia
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