The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake is a 15 to 18 day high-altitude trek in Nepal. It circles the entire Annapurna massif and reaches one of the highest lakes in the world at 4,919 m. 

The journey starts at Besisahar in the east at 760 m. It climbs through five distinct climate zones before crossing Thorong La Pass at 5,416 m and gives you the best view. 

The journey then descends through the ancient Mustang plateau and finishes near Pokhara in the south. No other trek in Nepal covers this range of altitude, landscape, and culture in a single connected route.

This guide is written for two groups:

First-time Nepal trekkers

You will find answers to common questions like permits, fitness, altitude, and cost.

Experienced trekkers

You will get specific route details, timing strategies, and updated 2026 cost figures

Overview of Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake

The Annapurna Circuit is a loop trek that takes you around the entire Annapurna massif. It begins at Besisahar in the east, follows the Marsyangdi River valley north .The  sub-tropical farmland, dense pine forest, alpine meadows, and high-altitude desert are beautiful to watch all in the same trip.

Here , the Tilicho Lake addition is a two-day side trip from Manang. It is  roughly halfway through the circuit. From Manang , the trail climbs west to Tilicho Base Camp at 4,150 m on day one. Then continues up to Tilicho Lake at 4,919 m on day two before returning to Manang.

Every journey you walk here is worth it.

Key Highlights 

•      Thorong La Pass at 5,416 m is the highest point of the trek

•      Tilicho Lake at 4,919 m is one of the highest lakes on Earth

•      Manang Valley is a wide, dry valley surrounded by 7,000-m peaks

•      Muktinath Temple here is a sacred Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage site

•      Mustang Region is a  high-altitude desert with strong Tibetan cultural influence

•      Poon Hill is  an optional sunrise viewpoint on the southern descent

Basic Trek Facts

Day-by-Day Itinerary: Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake

Trekkers who are very slow in walking can extend up to 18 days. But, mountain routes has 12-day planned  itinerary for you. 

The pace is built around safe altitude gain but not speed. You can check the itinerary below:

Day 1 -Kathmandu to Besisahar (1410m) 

The journey starts  with a  drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar. This town works as the official gateway to the Annapurna Circuit. You can stay overnight in Besisahar.

Duration: Trip Duration: 6-7 hours

Day 2 - Drive from Besisahar to Chame (2670 m / 8760 ft)

On this day you will walk through  rugged roads alongside the Marsyangdi River. You then head deep into the mountains. You will pass through villages like Dharapani and Bagarchhap before reaching Chame.

Chame is the district headquarters of Manang . It offers the first views of Lamjung Himal. You will sleep well at Chame.

 Duration: Trip Duration: 5-6 hours

Day 3 - Trek from Chame to Pisang (3300 m / 10826 ft)

You will begin your trek with a forested trail that takes you to rocky cliffs and floating rivers.

Now , you  cross several suspension bridges. You will love villages here before witnessing the iconic Paungda Danda rock face. 

Then the trail leads us to the peaceful village of Pisang. You can stay here.

Duration: Trip Duration: 5-6 hours

Day 4 - Pisang to Manang (3500 m)

Now, the trail leads to two ways. But can  choose the one that passes through upper Pisang via Geru. Here, enjoy the views of Mt. Annapurna, Pisang Peak, and others. Then, the way  will continue until you reach Manang.

You will also visit one of the oldest monasteries of the region which is Barge Monastery.  

Do spend the night at Manang.

 Duration: Trip Duration: 6-7 hours

Day 5 - Manang Acclimatization Day

This is the acclimatization day at Manang.  On this day, you will either visit Bhojo Gumba or Gangapurna Lake. Then you will spend the rest exploring and sightseeing the beautiful places nearby and around the village.

After the sightseeing, you can return to your lodge and spend the night there.

Day 6 - Manang to Yak Kharka (4110 m)

On day 6 of your trek, you will be trekking from Manang to Yak Kharka.  It will only take about 3-4 hours. This is  an easy trek, passing along Thorang Khola crossing Tangki Manang, Ghusang then Ghyanchang.

From Ghyanchang, you will finally reach the Yak Kharka. Then you will  spend the night at Yak Kharka.

Duration: Trip Duration: 3-4 hours

Day 7 - Yak Kharka to Thorang Phedi (4420 m)

The trail from Yak kharka to Thorang Phedi is an uphill climb . It will only take you about 3-4 hours. You will be crossing a suspension bridge along the way to reach Ledar village. 

After that, you can continue walking further from Ledar to pass through towering cliffs and finally reach Thorang Phedi. Thorang Phedi is the rest point for many trekkers and climbers.

The views of Mt. Gudang, Mt. Syagang, Thorung Peak, and Mt. Khatungkan is amazing from here. 

Then you will  stay overnight at Thorang Phedi.

Duration: Trip Duration: 3-4 hours

Day 8 - Cross Thorong La Pass (5416 m) to Muktinath (3710 m)

This is a long and stretchy walk, which passes  through the Thorang La pass . It is one of the highest passes in the world. 

Crossing it might be difficult, but the stunning views will continue to drive you through. It will take you about 4 hours to climb to the top of the pass.

Once you reach the top, you will love the entire terrain, chortens, and prayer flags. Then, you can  follow the trail, which will take you to Muktinath. Muktinath is also very religious place for both the Hindus and the Buddhists. Everyone loves here.

Then, stay overnight at Muktinath.

Day 9 - Drive from Muktinath to Tatopani

From Muktinath, you descend through Jharkot and Kagbeni. Then continue driving through Jomsom and the Kali Gandaki Gorge to Tatopani.

Tatopani is also famous for its natural hot springs . It is perfect for relaxing sore muscles. You will stay overnight at Tatopani. 

Duration: Trip Duration: 5–6 hours drive

Day 10 - Trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani (2850 m / 9350 ft)

You will move from Tatopani to Ghorepani. The trail leaves the Kali Gandaki and takes you  to the Ghar Khola valley.

Then , you will reach the villages of Shikha and Chitre before reaching a beautiful Rhododendron forest. In spring, the view this forest has to offer is amazing.

After that , you will reach Ghorepani and spend the night here.

 Duration: Trip Duration: 7-8 hours

Day 11 - Ghorepani to Poon Hill (3210 m) to Tadapani (2700 m)

Now, you will trek from Ghorepani to Poon Hill to Tadapani. You now have to  climb to the top of Poon Hill early in the morning. The sunrise from Poon Hill is breath-taking . You will get the perfect view of the Annapurna region, including Mustang, Pokhara, and many high mountains.

After the beautiful sunrise, you will head back to Ghorepani.

Finally, now head out to reach Tadapani.

Duration: Trip Duration: 6-7 hours

Day 12 - Tadapani to Pokhara (827 m)

This is the last day of your Annapurna circuit trek.  You will be heading from Tadapani to Nayapul and Pokhara. The trail follows a steep descent through the dense and dark forest of Rhododendron trees.

Then, you will reach the Ghandruk village, where most  Gurung people live.

From Ghandruk, amazing views of Machhapuchhre Himal, Annapurna South, and Himchuli mountains can be seen beautifully.

Finally, you can  continue your trek to Nayapul.  From here Pokhara is a 1-hour ride away. 

Lastly, You spend the night  in Pokhara.

 Duration: Trip Duration: 5-6 hours trek + 1 hour drive

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake: Cost Breakdown (2026)

Isn’t it best to know about all your expenses for this long way trek ?
We are here for you! Check out some major costs below:  

Required Permits

You will need two permits. Both are available in Kathmandu near the Thamel tourism offices or in Pokhara before the trek starts. 

But remember, they are not issued on the trail.

Guide and Porter Costs

Hiring a guide and porter is strongly recommended for the Tilicho Lake section. Guides knows your way and porters help you with your main bag.

See the rates below:

Accommodation and Food Per Day

The price at altitude costs higher at Tilicho Base Camp, Thorong Phedi, and the first nights after the pass.
Let’s have a quick check below :

Transportation Costs

•      Kathmandu to Besisahar by shared bus: USD 8 to 12 per person

•      Kathmandu to Besisahar by private jeep: USD 80 to 120 for the vehicle

•      Jomsom to Pokhara by morning flight: USD 90 to 110 per person

•      Jomsom to Pokhara by jeep: USD 30 to 50 per person

•      Nayapul to Pokhara by local jeep: USD 10 to 15 per person 

Total Estimated Budget for the Full Trek

The totals below includes permits, guide fees, porter fees, accommodation, food, and local transport between trailheads.

Note: International flights to Nepal and travel insurance are not included.

For more transparent costing, contact Mountain routes

Difficulty Level and Fitness Required

Is Annapurna Circuit Trek beginner Friendly ? 

You need to walk comfortably for five to seven hours on uneven ground without stopping. Running fitness is not the requirement but walking endurance is. 

If you can walk uphill for three  hours without needing to stop, you will have the base fitness to complete this route.

Note: In the six weeks before the trek, walk for at least one hour every day. Include uphill routes or stair climbs twice a week.

What about altitude challenges ?

The strenuous section covers the Tilicho Lake side trip, the climb to Thorong La Pass, and the long 1,600-m descent to Muktinath. You have to be prepared for climate change,altitude sickness and many more.

Comparison with Other Nepal Treks

Best Time to trek Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake

Season choice directly affects conditions at the two hardest points on this route: Thorong La Pass and Tilicho Lake.

You need to choose these two seasons for Annapurna:

Autumn: September to November 

Autumn is the one of the best season for this route. The monsoon ends by late September and then skies clear quickly. You will see the  mountain views at the best state. October is also the peak month where there are the highest number of trekkers.

Spring: March to May 

Spring is the second best season for Annapurna. It is  better choice for trekkers who wants less crowds than October. There are blooming flowers and clear views everywhere.

You have to check the  pass conditions with your guide the night before leaving Thorong Phedi. It is  really important if you trek in spring than in autumn. 

Winter: December to February — Possible but Difficult

Winter trekking on this route comes with real difficulties. Thorong La Pass closes after heavy snowfall, sometimes for several days.

There is no way to predict exact closure periods in advance.

Go to this trek only with experienced guides.

Monsoon: June to August — Not Recommended

Mountain Routes do not suggest monsoon for trekking anywhere. The trails are very muddy . Leeches are everywhere. This makes you difficult to trek.

Packing List for Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake

You have to choose your right things before you trek anywhere. Check below what you need to carry: 

Clothing

•      Moisture-wicking base layer top and bottom 

•      Mid-layer fleece jacket 

•      Down jacket rated to at least 

•      Waterproof outer jacket and rain pants 

•      2 to 3 trekking shirts

•      2 pairs of trekking trousers

•      Warm trekking socks 

•      Thermal underwear 

•      Warm gloves and thin liner gloves

•      Wool or fleece hat and a sun hat for daytime

•      Gaiters

Trekking Gear

•      Waterproof trekking boots 

•      Lightweight camp sandals or flip-flops for tea house evenings

•      Trekking poles

•      Daypack 

•      Large duffel bag for porter carry

•      Sleeping bag rated to -10 degrees Celsius or colder

•      Headlamp with spare batteries 

•      Sunglasses with wraparound UV protection 

•      Sunscreen SPF 50+ and lip balm with SPF

Essential Items

•      Water purification tablets or a small filter 

•      Two reusable 1-litre water bottles

•      Personal first aid kit including blister treatment, ibuprofen, and rehydration salts

•      Personal prescription medications plus a full extra supply

•      Trail snacks: nuts, dried fruit, energy bars, dark chocolate

•      High-capacity power bank 

•      Cash in Nepali Rupees

•      Colour copies of passport, permits, and travel insurance documents

•      Offline map downloaded before departure  like Maps.me or Gaia GPS work well on this route

Altitude Sickness and Safety on the Trek

The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake crosses above 3,500 m.  It  reaches 5,416 m at the pass.

You have to know how to recognise it early, and what to do when symptoms appear before you leave home.

What Altitude Sickness Is ?

Altitude sickness is called Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). It  occurs when the body does not receive enough oxygen as atmospheric pressure drops at elevation.

Symptoms usually appear within 6 to 12 hours of gaining altitude.

There are  two severe forms - 

High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) 

High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) 

These are life-threatening conditions . It requires immediate descent and emergency response. Take help from your guide. 

Symptoms to Recognise

•      Headache 

•      Nausea or loss of appetite 

•      Dizziness or light-headedness 

•      Fatigue

•      Difficulty

•      Shortness of breath at rest

Confusion, loss of coordination, a wet cough, or blue-tinged lips and fingernails indicate HACE or HAPE. Both are emergencies. 

Tips :Descend immediately and get to the Himalayan Rescue Association post at Manang or the nearest medical facility.

How to Prevent Altitude Sickness ?

•      Gain no more than 300 to 500 m of sleeping altitude per day above 3,000 m

•      Take the full acclimatisation day in Manang .Do not shorten or skip it

•      Drink three to four litres of water per day on the trail

•      Avoid alcohol above 3,000 metres

•      Avoid sleeping pills.They reduce breathing rate and slow acclimatisation

•      Eat full meals even when appetite drops at altitude

•      Consult your doctor about Diamox (acetazolamide) before departing 

The One Rule That Saves Lives

If you have AMS symptoms, do not go higher. Ascending with active symptoms always makes them worse. 

The only treatment that works reliably is descending to a lower altitude. 

Acclimatization is the most. Do not skip it.

Talk to our guide for more safety. 

Accommodation and Food on the Trek

The Annapurna Circuit is one of the best-serviced trekking routes in Nepal. Tea houses operate at every overnight stop from Besisahar to Nayapul. 

No camping is required at any stage. But lower villages offer more menu variety than the high-altitude stops near the pass and the lake.

 It is because of altitude.

Tea House Accommodation

Tea houses are family-run guesthouses that provide a bed, blankets, and meals. Most rooms have two single beds with a foam mattress. Shared toilets and cold-water showers are standard. Some tea houses in Manang and Muktinath have attached bathrooms and hot showers for an extra charge. 

Food at Tea Houses

Tea house menus are similar throughout the circuit. Dal bhat is the staple food here. You get a plate of lentil soup, steamed rice, curried vegetables, and pickle with free refills.

Most trekkers eat it once or twice a day because it is filling, inexpensive, and nutritious. 

Other common options include fried rice, noodle soup, pasta, Tibetan bread, chapati, and momo dumplings. 

Breakfast typically means porridge, eggs, or pancakes.

Note: Snacks might cost more so it is best if you carry from Kathmandu. 

Standard Annapurna Circuit vs Adding Tilicho Lake

The Tilicho Lake extension is not a variation of the standard Annapurna Circuit . It is a separate side trip that leaves from Manang and returns to Manang before you continue to Thorong La Pass. 

Adding it extends the trek by two full days. It raises the maximum altitude you reach before the pass crossing. This is also physically demanding trail section on the entire route. The comparison below covers the key differences.

Note : If your schedule and fitness allow the extra two days, include Tilicho Lake. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid on This Trek

You need to avoid certain things on the trek. We have listed the most common mistakes below: 

1. Skipping the Acclimatisation Day in Manang

The rest day in Manang is the single most important day on the itinerary. Don’t skip it.

Altitude sickness on the approach to Thorong La Pass is the most common reason trekkers fail to complete the circuit. 

Take enough rest. 

2. Overpacking

Use your porter to carry your main bag. Don't overpack your stuffs. Consult with Mountain Routes for your packing lists.

3. Starting Thorong La Pass Too Late

Leaving at 7 am or later is a mistake. Get to the summit before 10 am and begin the descent before the weather changes. The weather is really risky here. 

4. Not Withdrawing Enough Cash Before the Trek

There are no ATMs between Besisahar and the end of the circuit. All transactions on the trail are cash only in Nepali Rupees. 

Withdraw enough cash in Kathmandu or Pokhara before the trek starts.

5. Ignoring Weather Before High-Altitude Sections

Thorong La Pass and the Tilicho Lake trail are both exposed to rapid weather changes. A snowstorm can close the pass or make the Tilicho route unsafe without much warning.

Check weather forecasts the evening before any high-altitude section with your guide. 

6. Doing the Tilicho Lake Route Without a Guide

The main Annapurna Circuit trail is clearly marked and manageable without a guide for experienced trekkers. But if you are first time trekker then you are at risk.

A guide who knows this route adds a level of safety that matters at nearly 5,000 m.

For first-time Nepal trekkers, a guide is strongly recommended for the complete route. 

What are the highlights of the Annapurna Trek?

The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake has moments that most trekkers talk about long after the trip ends. You can see some of the reasons below: 

Your First Clear View of the High Peaks

Above Chame on Day 4, the valley opens and the tree line drops away. Annapurna II at 7,937 m fills the skyline ahead. Most trekkers stop walking without meaning to.

The forests simply will be replaced by mountains. The Himalayas stop being a background and become the whole picture.

Standing at Tilicho Lake before anyone else arrives

When you reach Tilicho Lake in the early morning the water is completely still. The glacier above reflected at the  surface is simply beautiful .

The view at Tilicho will make you speechless.

The top of Thorong La Pass

This Thorong La Pass pass is the most difficult way on the Annapurna Circuit. The physical and mental challenge you do to get here will build your confidence. 

Hence, you will have the most exciting memories to tell everyone. 

The evening at Muktinath

After nine hours on the pass day, Muktinath offers something quiet. The temple complex is lit with butter lamps in the evening .

The  pilgrims who arrive from the south on horseback move through the courtyard without urgency. Everyone who is here feels peace and calm aura.

The People along the way

Gurung women carry loads through the fields below Manang. A schoolteacher in Pisang who has never left the valley asks where you are from and tells you about his students. 

An old man in Marpha presses apple juice from his orchard and charges you fifty rupees for a glass.Every story from everyone here is something special. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake?

The full trek with the Tilicho Lake extension takes 15 to 18 days. Without the extension, the standard Annapurna Circuit takes 12 to 14 days. Most trekkers who include Tilicho Lake complete the route in 16 to 17 days in approx. 

Is Tilicho Lake worth the extra days?

Yes. Tilicho Lake adds two days on your trek extension. But it also adds some  extra physical difficulty. Trust us, it is totally worth it. You will get to see places with views that are not available from any other point on the circuit. 

Can first-time trekkers do this route?

First-time trekkers who have done regular hiking before arriving in Nepal can complete this route. But people with no previous experience on multi-day hikes should not do this trek. 

Do I need a guide for the Annapurna Circuit?

A guide is not legally required for the main Annapurna Circuit . But, for Tilicho Lake route, a guide is strongly recommended. Weather conditions near the lake can change without warning. The altitude makes navigation errors more serious.

What permits are required for the Annapurna Circuit?

You need two permits for Annapurna Circuit.One is  ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and the other is  TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System card). 

Both must be obtained before the trek in Kathmandu or Pokhara. 

Can I trek the Annapurna Circuit alone?

If you are an experienced trekker, why not?
But if you are first time trekker,the Tilicho Lake trail is a different situation . We don't recommend solo trekking for you. 

What is the weather like at Tilicho Lake?

In autumn and spring, mornings are clear and calm. But at afternoon the conditions can change quickly. Don't risk with weather.

Check weather forecast because day weather can cause snowfall. Night weather will be colder than you expected. 

Conclusion

The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake is more than just a trek. This journey is an experience that blends adventure, culture, and raw natural beauty. 

Whether you're planning your first high-altitude journey or looking to push your limits further in 2026, it offers the perfect balance of challenge and reward. 

With the right preparation, smart budgeting, and a flexible mindset, you’ll not only complete the trek but create memories . The mountains will make totally worth it.

You can contact Mountain Routes for your mountain journey. We will guide you at your every step.