15-Day Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek

Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake is one of the most amazing and beautiful journeys you can embark upon. This trek will take 15 days to complete, which involves many ups and downs and scenic landscapes, leaving you with beautiful memories and an amazing story to tell. Actually, this trek is the extended version of the Annapurna Circuit trek that includes the world’s highest-altitude lake, Tilicho Lake (4,949m). The route winds through traditional Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi villages, offering insights into the local Buddhist and Hindu cultures, unique architecture, and warm mountain hospitality.

The adventure begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar, where the road gradually ascends from the lowland valleys toward the mountains. Then, the route continues to Chame, introducing trekkers to alpine scenery and the first glimpses of snow-capped peaks. From there, the trail climbs to Pisang, revealing increasingly rugged terrain and deeper views into the Annapurna range. Then, we lead towards the culturally rich village of Manang, where Tibetan-influenced architecture and monasteries come into view. This is the place where we take a rest and prepare ourselves for further trek. Then, the trek ascends to Siri Kharka and Tilicho Base Camp, leading to the stunning Tilicho Lake. This is our highlight destination and the most important part of our journey. The route then rejoins the classic Annapurna Circuit, heading through Yak Kharka and Thorang Phedi before crossing the challenging Thorong La Pass on Day 11. The trail descends to the sacred site of Muktinath and continues to the soothing hot springs of Tatopani. This is the place where natural hot springs offer a well-earned rest for your muscles. On Day 13, you drive from Tatopani to Beni and then to Pokhara. 

After a long journey, this fourteenth day is reserved for a relaxing excursion in Pokhara, with its lakeside charm and Himalayan views. Pokhara is the place where you can relax by Phewa Lake, explore nearby caves and waterfalls, or enjoy a peaceful boat ride with views of Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range. It’s the perfect way to end a physically demanding trek on a soothing

Highlights 

• Trek through dramatically changing landscapes.
• Visit the sacred Tilicho Lake (4,919m) nestled beneath glacial peaks.
• Explore age-old villages such as Pisang, Manang, and Marpha, rich with monasteries, chortens, and local traditions.
• Conquer one of the highest trekking passes, Thorong La Pass (5,416m).
• Visit Muktinath Temple, a pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists.
• Savor authentic Nepali and Tibetan dishes in teahouses run by welcoming locals.
• Spend a vital rest day in the charming village of Manang, which is ideal for acclimatization and side hikes.
• Enjoy the ever-changing vistas of Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and Dhaulagiri.
• Relax in the therapeutic waters at Tatopani after days of challenging trekking.

Best Time to do the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek 

The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek is highly dependent on seasonal weather patterns. The best seasons to trek the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These periods offer the most stable weather, clear skies, and comfortable temperatures for high-altitude trekking. Both seasons provide unique scenic beauty and excellent trekking conditions.

Trekking in the Spring and Autumn Seasons

Spring brings blooming rhododendron forests, lush landscapes, and gradually warming temperatures. April is particularly ideal, offering pleasant days and clear mountain views. By May, the trail becomes greener and warmer, though occasional pre-monsoon showers may appear in the afternoons. Autumn is the next most popular time to trek, especially in October, when post-monsoon clarity provides spectacular mountain panoramas. September still sees occasional rain early in the month, while November brings cooler, drier air and thinning crowds, along with crisp visibility.

Months to avoid trek to Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake

While the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek is incredibly rewarding, certain months pose significant challenges due to extreme weather. Monsoon season (June to August) and winter (December to February) are generally not recommended for this trek. During the monsoon months, heavy rainfall leads to slippery trails, landslides, poor visibility, and leeches in the lower forested areas. The Tilicho Lake region becomes particularly risky, with unstable paths and frequent cloud cover obscuring mountain views. In winter, the temperatures at higher altitudes drop well below freezing, and heavy snowfall often blocks Thorong La Pass and the trail to Tilicho Lake. Many teahouses and lodges close for the season, and shorter daylight hours make trekking more difficult and less safe.

Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake Difficulty

The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trekking is one of Nepal’s most spectacular trekking routes. It combines the classic circuit with a challenging journey to one of the world’s highest lakes. This trek is generally rated as moderate to challenging. The main Annapurna Circuit is suitable for trekkers with a decent level of fitness and some prior trekking experience. However, the addition of Tilicho Lake significantly raises the difficulty level. 

The route to the lake features steep, exposed trails and high-altitude conditions that demand careful preparation and acclimatization. One of the most significant challenges of this trek is Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet), while Tilicho Lake itself sits at 4,919 meters (16,138 feet). These high altitudes increase the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), especially if acclimatization is rushed.

Completing the Annapurna Circuit with the Tilicho Lake detour typically takes between 15 to 20 days. Trekkers should expect to walk an average of 6 to 8 hours per day, with some longer and more challenging days when crossing high passes or reaching the lake. These extended hiking days can be physically exhausting, especially at altitude, and demand both mental and physical endurance. 

Essential Gear Items for the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake

The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake is a demanding trek that takes you through varied terrains and altitudes, from subtropical forests to high mountain passes over 5,400 meters. Being well-equipped is crucial not only for comfort but also for safety, especially given the remote sections, unpredictable weather, and high altitudes. Having the right gear can make the difference between a smooth trek and a challenging ordeal. 

Clothing

1. Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms
2. Fleece jacket or pullover
3. Down or synthetic insulated jacket
4. Waterproof and windproof shell jacket
5. Waterproof trousers for wet and windy conditions
6. 2–3 pairs of quick-dry trekking pants
7. Long-sleeve and short-sleeve moisture-wicking shirts

Underwear and Sleepwear:

1. Comfortable, breathable underwear (quick-drying)
2. Warm thermal layers or a dedicated set of clothes for sleeping

Footwear

1. Sturdy, waterproof, and broken-in high-ankle trekking boots
2. Lightweight footwear for rest days
3. 3–5 pairs of moisture-wicking trekking socks
4. Gaiters (optional)

Headwear and Handwear

1. Wool or fleece hat
2. Sun Hat or Cap
3. Buff/Neck Gaiter
4. Insulated and waterproof outer gloves

Trekking Essentials

1. Sleeping Bag
2. 40–65L backpack
3. Trekking Poles
4. Headlamp with extra batteries
5. Water Bottles or Hydration Bladder
6. Water Purification Tablets
7. Sunglasses and Sunscreen

Health and Hygiene

1. First Aid Kit that includes painkillers, altitude sickness medication (Diamox), and any personal prescriptions
2. Personal Toiletries such as biodegradable soap, toothbrush/paste, hand sanitizer, quick-dry towel
3. Toilet Paper and wet wipes.

Documents and Money

1. Passport & Copies
2. Trekking Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card
3. Travel Insurance
4. Enough NPR for the entire trek

Optional but Useful Items

1. Camera or Smartphone with extra batteries/power bank
2. Notebook and pen
3. GPS device

Accommodation and Meal Services Along the Trek

During the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek, you’ll stay in local teahouses and lodges run by friendly villagers. These teahouses offer basic yet comfortable lodging, providing trekkers with a warm bed, blanket, and shared bathroom facilities. 

• Kathmandu & Pokhara: You’ll stay in comfortable 3-star hotels with private rooms and en-suite bathrooms.
• On the Trek (Chame to Muktinath): Expect twin-sharing rooms with simple furnishings. Blankets are provided, but carrying a sleeping bag is highly recommended, especially at higher elevations.
• Tilicho Region (Siri Kharka, Base Camp): Accommodations here are more basic and limited due to the remote location, but they still provide essential shelter and food services.

Most teahouses are located in scenic spots with spectacular views of the mountains and valleys, offering a cozy place to rest after a day of trekking.

Meals

During the trek, three meals a day- breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included, all freshly prepared at the teahouses.

• Breakfast: Options include Tibetan bread, pancakes, eggs, porridge, muesli, and tea/coffee.
• Lunch & Dinner: Typical meals include Nepali dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momo (dumplings), pasta, noodles, fried rice, soups, curries, and seasonal vegetables.
• Beverages: Hot drinks like tea, coffee, hot lemon, and ginger tea are widely available. Bottled or boiled drinking water is available for purchase along the trail.

While the food is simple, it’s nourishing and designed to provide the energy needed for high-altitude trekking. Vegetarian options are widely available, and the food is usually prepared with hygiene in mind.

Trekking Permits and Necessary Documents for the Trek

To trek the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake, you need two official permits issued by the Government of Nepal. These permits are strictly monitored at various checkpoints along the trail, so it is essential to carry them with you at all times.

Required Permits

1. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

• Cost: NPR 3,000 per person (Approx. USD 25)
• Issued by: Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) in Kathmandu or Pokhara
• Purpose: Grants access to the protected Annapurna Conservation Area

2. Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card

• Cost: NPR 2,000 per person (Approx. USD 17) for individual trekkers or NPR 1,000 (Approx. USD 8) through a registered trekking agency
• Issued by: Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) or NTB
• Purpose: Maintains a database of trekkers for safety and rescue operations

Required Documents

To obtain the permits, you’ll need to provide the following:

• Valid passport (with at least 6 months’ validity)
• Two passport-sized photos 
• Completed permit application forms
• Details of your trekking itinerary
• Travel insurance details (especially if going through an agency)

Electricity, Drinking Water, and WiFi

Electricity is available throughout most parts of the Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake trek, especially in lower-altitude villages where the national power grid is accessible. As you ascend to higher elevations like Manang or Tilicho Base Camp, electricity is usually supplied through solar panels and may be less reliable. Most teahouses offer charging facilities for electronic devices such as phones and cameras, typically for an extra fee ranging from USD 1 to 3 per hour.

Drinking water is easily available along the route, but it’s important to ensure it is safe for consumption. Bottled water is sold in teahouses and shops, though prices increase with altitude. To save money and reduce plastic waste, you can carry reusable water bottles and use water purification methods such as tablets, portable filters, or UV sterilizers like SteriPEN. Most teahouses also provide boiled water for a small fee.

WiFi is available in many villages, especially in popular stops like Chame and Manang, but the connection can be slow or unreliable at higher altitudes. Some teahouses charge a nominal fee for WiFi access, while mobile network coverage is limited but available through local SIM cards in select areas.

Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake Cost

The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake price varies depending on the size of the group and the services included. This 15-day adventure offers a comprehensive trekking experience through diverse landscapes, remote villages, and high mountain passes, including a visit to the stunning Tilicho Lake. The package typically includes transportation, accommodation, meals, trekking permits, a licensed guide, and porter services. 

If you’re planning based on the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake itinerary, knowing the cost per person can help you budget effectively. For those looking for a shorter and more budget-friendly option, the Annapurna Circuit Trek 12-day package is also available, offering a condensed yet rewarding experience.

These rates are for standard packages. Extra services like personal porter hire, hot showers, device charging, WiFi, and tips are usually not included.

Guides and Porter Tipping

Tipping is a common and appreciated practice in the Nepali trekking industry, especially for guides and porters. While not mandatory, tips are seen as a gesture of gratitude for their dedication, support, and effort throughout the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek. A general guideline is to tip around 10% of the total trek cost per trekker, which can be split between the guide and porter. For example, if your Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake price is $1,175, a tip of $100–$120 total would be considered generous and respectful. You can offer tips personally at the end of the trek, usually during a farewell meal or gathering. It’s best to give the tip in Nepalese rupees and hand it directly to your guide and porter with a warm thank you.

Physical Preparation for Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake Trekking

The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake is a challenging, high-altitude adventure that requires a good level of physical fitness and mental endurance. To prepare for this trek, it is recommended to start training at least 8–12 weeks in advance. You have to focus on cardiovascular exercises such as hiking, running, swimming, or cycling to improve your stamina. Strength training, especially for the legs, core, and back, helps in handling long walking hours with a backpack. Incorporating practice hikes with a loaded daypack is highly beneficial to simulate trekking conditions. Flexibility and balance exercises like yoga can also enhance your performance and reduce the risk of injury. If possible, try hiking at altitude or sleeping in higher elevations before your trip to help your body adapt. With the right preparation, you can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Annapurna region safely and confidently.