Some old folks say, ‘’If you have not trekked through the Annapurna Circuit yet, you don’t know what trekking is.’’ We would not be surprised if people call it the world’s greatest trek because it has earned and retained that title for all these years since its route was first opened to trekkers in 1977.
You have it all from one of the highest mountains to the bottomless gorges, the most stunning high mountain settlements to deep lush green valleys, thick forests to regions dry as desert. You will fall in love with nature’s rawest form once more as you cross one of the longest suspension bridges, dancing to the rhythm of the passionate winds.
The 155 km long trek will take you on a journey of sheer awe, and with all that comes the Tilicho Lake adventure, which is the crowning glory of the trek. Now, if you’ve made up your mind to embark on the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake adventure, Asian Expedition will assist you through every step.
Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake Trek highlights
- Thorong La Pass journey at 5,416 meters
- Visit to the Tilicho Lake – one of the highest lakes in the world at 4,949 meters
- Blissful views of Mt. Annapurna, Thorung Peak, Nilgiri, Chulu East and West, Tukuche
- Peak, Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II and IV.
- Majestic lakes, gorges, glaciers, and waterfalls along the way
- Rejuvenation in Tatopani (तातोपानी) hot springs
- Visit to the sacred Muktinath – one of the most sacred sites for Hindus and Buddhists
- Embrace the beauty of Manang
- Visit the Barge Monastery – the largest in Manang
Why choose the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake Trek?
If someone asks for one good reason to trek the Annapurna Circuit Trek, we can give a hundred. So what makes this trek so special? You’ll find out:
1. High-altitude adventure
For those who don’t know, Tilicho Lake is one of the highest lakes in the world, which sits peacefully at a height of 4,919 meters. The turquoise water surrounded by giant towering peaks provides the perfect backdrop for trekkers. No wonder, this spot has gathered the attention of many videographers and filmmakers from around the world.
2. Thorong La Pass
One of the most exciting yet excruciating parts of this Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek is crossing the Thorong La Pass which stands at 5,416 meters. Often termed as one of the highest and hardest trekking passes globally, this challenging scene offers a magnetic view of the entire Annapurna range.
3. Diverse landscapes
One of the most amazing parts of this trek is there’s always room for surprises. As you move forward, the route goes through different terrains, from lush forests to terraced fields to high-altitude desert-like places to alpine meadows. This multi-diverse region allows trekkers to experience what ecological richness looks and feels like.
4. Cultural immersion
The long trekking route takes trekkers through numerous traditional villages of different ethnic groups like Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi people. Interacting with them can be a great way to peek into their local customs and lifestyles. Connecting with people who still follow the old, traditional lifestyles can give trekkers a reality check.
5. Sacred significance
Tilicho Lake is not just a tourist attraction. It has spiritual importance to both Hindus and Buddhists, which traces its roots back to the Ramayan era. Many also believe that Lord Shiva resides there and that taking a dip in the lake will purify souls and cleanse them of their sins.
6. Challenging conditions
Due to its high altitude and unpredictable weather, the trek can be moderately difficult for experienced trekkers and extremely hard for some. As a preventive measure, trekkers must be prepared for potential altitude sickness and learn to acclimatize properly during the journey. Depending on your itinerary, the trek, on average, spans 11-20 days with the daily trekking hours being 5-8 hours.
7. Natural hot springs
Along the Annapurna Circuit Trek, you’ll find a couple of natural hot springs like the Chame Hot Springs and Tatopani Hot Springs, and on the ABC, there is Jhinu Danda Hot Springs. All these hot springs are naturally occurring geothermal pools. Relaxing there will soothe the muscles that you have during the trek.
Food and accommodation options during the trek
During the Annapurna Circuit Trek and Tilicho Lake Trek, trekkers can expect a variety of food and lodging options according to their preferences and budget.
Accommodation options:
1. Teahouse and lodges
You can not expect a luxury hotel in the remoteness of the Annapurna Circuit. But what you can expect is teahouses and lodges, from basic to upscale options. You can get simple rooms with shared or attached bathrooms. Talking about the prices, they vary on the location and amenities offered.
2. Luxury lodges
For those wanting a more comfortable experience, luxury lodges are available where better amenities like private bathrooms, hot showers, and even Wi-Fi are available. But, these accommodations, unlike, small lodges, can be found only in key locations along the trek.
3. Camping
A bit uncommon, but camping is an option available for those who want to experience nature in a better way. But this requires better preparation beforehand and a lot of planning with the necessary tools. Climate and weather can also sometimes affect this adventure.
Food options
1. Traditional Nepali cuisine
The food trekkers get along the Annapurna Circuit primarily consists of traditional Nepali dishes like Dal Bhaat, momo, and thukpa. These meals are very nutritious and provide energy during the trek. Also, if these things don’t match your appetite, you can have some international dishes like pizzas, burgers, and noodles but only in higher-traffic areas.
2. Meal plans
Most trekking packages, including that of Asian Expedition, include full-board meal packages during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). This is to ensure that the trekkers can get three meals without having to worry about food logistics. Also, trekkers can try local specialities like Dhido (ढींडो), yak meat, sukuti (सुकुटी), niuro (नीयूरो), etc.
3. Drinking water
Ensure proper hydration with water and other options like ginger tea or garlic soup at high altitudes. You can buy bottled water but that won’t be enough as you can’t carry lots of bottles that add on to your backpack.
You can carry your water bottle and fill it every time you find a tap. But do not forget to take some water purification tablets because the tap water might be harmful.
3. Dietary considerations
While you can get both vegetarian and non-veg options during the trek, you have to be cautious with the meat items due to quality concerns at higher elevations.
Best time to trek the Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake
Like most of the treks in Nepal, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) can be the best for trekking the Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake.
Why spring?
Let’s start with the best. This season has mild temperatures, with daytime highs around 25 degrees Celsius and nighttime going down to -5 degrees Celsius. That makes days longer, giving trekkers more time to trek.
Along the way, trekkers also get to enjoy the stunning blooms of rhododendrons and wildflowers. It enhances the landscape’s beauty, making your trek merrier.
Despite being popular, there are fewer crowds in spring compared to autumn. It gives a more relaxed trekking experience, and also, there will be no shortage of accommodation.
Why autumn?
Autumn welcomes clear blue skies and dry conditions, which is perfect for trekking. Like spring, temperatures are mild, which makes the trekking experience even more fun. Trekkers, during this season, get some of the best views of the Himalayas with little cloud cover. And the nights are perfect for stargazing too.
Other seasons
Winter (December to February): While trekking is possible in winter, it comes with various challenges like extreme cold and potential trail closures due to heavy snowfall. This time is only for experienced trekkers.
Monsoon (June to August): Trekkers prefer avoiding this period due to heavy rain, which makes the trail slippery and extremely dangerous. However, some trekkers embark on a journey during this time because it is less crowded.
Visa
If you’re a foreigner travelling to Nepal, you need a visa to enter this country. You can get a Visa on Arrival at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport, and you must enter Nepal within six months from the visa issue date. The countdown starts right after you enter Nepal. You can get more information about visas at www.immigration.gov.np.
You require these documents for a visa application: a passport valid for at least six months, a passport-size photo, and a processing visa fee. The current 30-day visa processing fee is US $50 in cash.
Indian nationals do not need a visa to travel to Nepal, while Chinese and citizens of SAARC nations enjoy a free visa. While many countries get a Visa on Arrival in Nepal, that won’t be available for citizens from Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine, and Afghanistan.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is mandatory for any trekkers for safety reasons because travelling in the mountains can be unpredictable. It is recommended that you get good travel insurance that covers things like emergency helicopter rescue, medical evaluation costs, etc.
If you’re booking the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake via Asian Expedition, you must submit a copy of your comprehensive travel insurance policy certificate to us. Having good insurance will not only guarantee you peace of mind while travelling but also complete coverage for things that could go wrong.
What to carry in my backpack during the trek?
Before starting on the Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Trek, you need to be prepared with the essential trekking gear. You can buy everything in Kathmandu. Your comfort, safety and enjoyment during the trek matters.
These are some of the items that you can not miss at any cost:
1. Essential gear
- A Large, sturdy, and waterproof backpack of 60-80 liters for carrying your trekking gear.
- A daypack for carrying daily essentials like snacks, water, and a first aid kit.
2. Sleeping gear
- Sleeping bag for extremely cold temperatures. A four-season bag works well.
- A mummy liner is optional but it adds warmth in teahouses.
3. Clothing
- Base layers like merino wool or synthetic thermal tops and bottoms for warmth.
- Fleece and down jackets are necessary for warmth during breaks and at night.
- Carry a waterproof and windproof shell jacket.
- Quick-drying trekking pants/shorts are the best. Consider bringing more than a pair.
Many pairs of moisture-wicking socks including thick wool socks for cold temperatures.
4. Footwear and accessories
- Sturdy, waterproof trekking boots with good ankle support.
- Lightweight sandals or sneakers while staying in teahouses.
- Having a trekking pole stabilizes and reduces ankle and knee strain during ascents and descents.
- A flashlight is an absolute necessity for early morning starts and navigating ways in the dark. Bring extra batteries.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen to protect against UV rays at high altitudes.
5. Personal items and miscellaneous
- First aid kit, and toiletries like soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, wipes, lip balms, etc.
- Quick-dry towels after showers or wash-ups, and plastic bags to keep wet clothes and litter.
Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake adventure itinerary
The trek starts from Besisahar after an 8-9 hours drive from Kathmandu. The trails will take you along the Marshyangdi River and end in Kali Gandaki Gorge.
Day 1: Your journey starts from Kathmandu to Jagat, from where you will drive to Besisahar. The exciting trip takes you through scenic villages and terraced farms along the way.
Day 2: The Trek starts from Jagat to Dharapani, where you move forward, navigating lush forests and waterfalls for at least five hours.
Day 3: You will trek from Dharapani to Chame, where the stunning views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II await you. The trek for this day will be approximately 6 hours.
Day 4: The trek continues from Chame to Upper Pisang. On this day, you will pass through dense forests and the stunning Paungda Danda rock face.
Day 5: On this day, the journey from Upper Pisang to Manang will take you through Tibetan-style villages. Views of Annapurna II and Gangapurna will bless you throughout the ways.
Day 6: This day is dedicated to acclimatization in Manang so your body can catch up to the increasing altitude. You can either rest or take an optional hike to Ice Lake.
Day 7: Your trek to Siri Kharka starts, and you start ascending to an altitude of 4,060 meters. This 5-hour trek will offer magnificent mountain views.
Day 8: The ascent to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150 m) continues. You will navigate rugged terrain and enjoy majestic mountain views.
Day 9: A visit to Tilicho Lake, the highest glacier lake on earth. After visiting the stunning lake, you will return to Siri Kharka which makes a full day of trekking.
Day 10: The Trek starts from Siri Kharka to Yak Kharka via Ledar where the ascends or descends take you through stunning alpine meadows.
Day 11: Your route will go through Thorong High Camp at 4,925 meters and gradually ascend towards Thorong La Pass.
Day 12: You will cross the Thorong La Pass (5,416m) before descending to the holy Muktinath temple. It might take up to 9-10 hours but that rewards you with stunning views.
Day 13: After resting at Muktinath, you will drive to Tatopani via Jomsom, where you can relax in natural hot springs.
Day 14: From Tatopani, your adventure continues to Ghorepani where in the right season, you can see the rhododendron forests and traditional Gurung settlements.
Day 15: Early morning, you will travel to Poon Hill for a breathtaking sunrise view over the Annapurna range. After that, you will drive back to Pokhara.
Conclusion
The Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake trek is beyond any normal trek as it takes you through a physical, emotional, spiritual, and geographical journey within a couple of weeks. If you’re thinking of giving this once-in-a-lifetime experience a chance, now is the best time to get started. If you don’t know where to start, Asian Expedition has your back. Contact us now, and we shall help you with everything to make this journey comfortable and memorable.