Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek – 17 Days

Itinerary

• Day 01: Arrival in kathmandu (1,300 m / 4,265 ft)

  Your journey begins with your arrival in Kathmandu (1,300 m / 4,265 ft), the vibrant capital city and main international gateway to Nepal via Tribhuvan International Airport. Upon landing, you will be warmly welcomed by a representative from Sherpa Himalaya, who will greet you with a traditional flower garland and a brief introduction to your upcoming adventure. Afterward, you will be comfortably transferred to your hotel, where you can relax, freshen up, and recover from jet lag, preparing yourself for the exciting Himalayan journey ahead.

  Overnight at KTM Hotel

• Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar (760 m/2,493 feet)(6-7 hours)

  The scenic drive from Kathmandu (1,300 m) to Besisahar (760 m) marks the beginning of your Annapurna adventure, covering approximately 6–7 hours through Nepal’s diverse mid-hill landscapes. As you leave the capital city behind, the road winds alongside flowing rivers like the Trishuli and Marsyangdi, offering beautiful views of terraced farmlands, lush green hills, and traditional villages scattered across the countryside. The journey combines well-paved highways in the initial section with more rugged and occasionally bumpy roads as you approach Besisahar, adding a sense of raw Himalayan travel experience. Along the way, glimpses of distant mountain peaks and local rural life create a captivating introduction to the Annapurna region, making this drive both visually rewarding and culturally enriching for trekkers.

  Overnight at Besisahar

• Day 03: Drive to Chame (2,710m/8,891feet), 4-5 hours

  The drive from Besisahar (760 m) to Chame (2,670 m) is an adventurous off-road journey of 65 km, typically taking 4-5 hours depending on road and weather conditions. Following the Marsyangdi River, the route climbs steadily through subtropical forests, cascading waterfalls, and steep landscapes, passing through villages like Bhulbhule, Jagat, and Dharapani. As the elevation increases, the scenery dramatically shifts from lush greenery to pine forests and alpine terrain, with occasional glimpses of snow-capped peaks. The road is mostly rough, narrow, and unpaved beyond Besisahar, often dusty or muddy, making the ride thrilling yet challenging. Despite the rugged conditions, this drive offers a raw and authentic Himalayan experience, providing a stunning introduction to the Annapurna region and setting the tone for the trek ahead.

  Overnight at Chame

• Day 04: Trek from Chame to Pisang (3,300m/10824feet), 5 – 6 hours

  The trek from Chame (2,670 m) to Pisang (3,200 m) is a scenic and rewarding walk of approximately 5–6 hours along the classic Annapurna Circuit trail. The route offers refreshing mountain air and a peaceful trekking atmosphere. Along the way, trekkers pass traditional settlements and cross suspension bridges while enjoying spectacular views of towering peaks, including Lamjung Himal and the majestic Annapurna II, which becomes increasingly prominent as you approach Pisang.

  Beyond the natural beauty, this route also offers meaningful cultural encounters, as you pass through small settlements inhabited by Gurung and Tibetan-influenced communities.Along the route prayer flags, mani walls, and chortens reflect the region’s deep-rooted Buddhist heritage. This blend of scenic grandeur and authentic local culture makes the Chame to Pisang trek both visually stunning and culturally enriching, offering a true taste of life in the Annapurna region.

  Overnight at Pisang

• Day 05: Trek from Pisang to Ngawal (3700m/12139 ft) 4-5 hours

  The trek from Pisang (3,200 m) to Ngawal (3,660 m) is a rewarding 4–5 hour walk along the scenic upper trail of the Annapurna Circuit. This route offers panoramic views of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak, along with sweeping vistas of the Marsyangdi Valley. Passing through traditional villages like Ghyaru, trekkers experience strong Tibetan-influenced culture, with prayer flags, mani walls, and ancient stone houses. The local residents, mainly of Tibetan origin, follow a simple lifestyle based on farming and herding, preserving their rich Himalayan traditions. This short yet beautiful section blends stunning mountain scenery with authentic cultural encounters, making it a highlight of the trek.

  Overnight at Ngawal

• Day 06: Trek from Ngawal to Manang (3,500m/11,482feet), 3-4 hours

  The trek from Ngawal (3,660 m) to Manang (3,540 m) is a gentle 3–4 hour walk across the scenic upper Annapurna Circuit trail. The route traverses open alpine terrain with wide views of the Marsyangdi Valley, offering stunning panoramas of Gangapurna, Annapurna III, and surrounding peaks. As you gradually descend toward Manang, the landscape reveals dry, high-altitude desert features mixed with yak pastures and ancient trails. Along the way, you pass small settlements and monasteries that reflect the region’s strong Tibetan Buddhist culture, where local residents continue traditional lifestyles centered on farming and livestock. This short and peaceful section is ideal for acclimatization while providing a rich blend of Himalayan scenery and authentic cultural experience.

  Overnight at Manang

• Day 07: Acclimatization day in Manang: hike to chongkor view point (3750m)

  An acclimatization day in Manang (3,540 m) is an essential part of the Annapurna Circuit trek, allowing your body to adjust safely to the increasing altitude before heading toward Thorong La Pass. This rest day is both relaxing and rewarding, as it includes a short yet scenic hike to Chongkor Viewpoint (3,750 m), one of the best acclimatization hikes in the region. The trail gently ascends above the village, offering sweeping panoramic views of Annapurna III, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and the surrounding high Himalayan landscapes. From the viewpoint, trekkers can also witness the dramatic contrast of the dry alpine valley and glacial terrain below.

  Overnight at Manang

• Day 08: Trek From Manang (3,540 m) to Shree Kharka (4,080m)(4-5 hours)

  The trek from Manang (3,540 m) to Shree Kharka (4,080 m) is a scenic 4–5 hour journey that leads you toward the remote trails of the Annapurna region. As you gain elevation, the landscape becomes more rugged and alpine, with sparse vegetation, rocky terrain, and wide-open mountain vistas. This less-traveled route provides a peaceful trekking experience, passing through quiet yak pastures and high-altitude grazing areas. Along the way, you may encounter local herders and simple teahouses, reflecting the traditional mountain lifestyle of the region. The trek to Shree Kharka is both serene and rewarding, making it an excellent acclimatization walk while showcasing the raw beauty and solitude of the high Himalayas.

  Overnight at Shree Kharka

• Day 09: Trek from Shree Kharka to Tilicho Base camp (4140m) (4-5 hours)

  The trek from Shree Kharka (4,080 m) to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150 m) is a thrilling 4–5 hour journey along a rugged and less-traveled section of the Annapurna region. The trail traverses narrow paths carved into steep hillsides, offering dramatic views of rocky cliffs, glacial valleys, and towering peaks like Tilicho Peak.

   

  This section is considered one of the more adventurous parts of the trek, as it includes landslide-prone areas and exposed trails, requiring careful footing. Despite the challenges, the breathtaking scenery and sense of remoteness make it incredibly rewarding. As you approach Tilicho Base Camp, the landscape becomes more barren and alpine, surrounded by raw Himalayan beauty. This trek serves as an exciting gateway to the famous Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world, making it a memorable highlight of the Annapurna Circuit experience.

• Day 10: Trek from Tilicho Base Camp (4,150 m) to Tilicho Lake (4,919 m) and back to Tilicho Base Camp (6-7 hours)

  The trek from Tilicho Base Camp (4,150 m) to Tilicho Lake (4,919 m) and back is a challenging yet unforgettable 6–7 hour round-trip journey to one of the highest lakes in the world. Starting early in the morning, the trail steadily ascends through rugged, rocky terrain and glacial landscapes, offering breathtaking views of surrounding peaks and dramatic high-altitude scenery.

  Reaching Tilicho Lake is a truly rewarding moment, as its deep blue waters sit peacefully beneath towering snow-covered mountains, creating a surreal and serene atmosphere. After spending some time soaking in the views, the trail descends back to Tilicho Base Camp, retracing the same scenic route. This hike is physically demanding due to the altitude, but the unique beauty and sense of achievement make it a highlight of the Annapurna Circuit trek.

• Day 11: Trek from Tilicho Base Camp (4,150 m) to Shree Kharka (4,080 m) (3–4 hour)

  The trek from Tilicho Base Camp (4,150 m) to Shree Kharka (4,080 m) is a scenic 3–4 hour descent through the rugged landscapes of the Annapurna region. The trail retraces the same dramatic route, crossing narrow paths along steep hillsides with stunning views of rocky cliffs, glacial valleys, and surrounding Himalayan peaks.

  As you descend, the terrain gradually becomes less harsh, offering a more comfortable walk while still maintaining breathtaking high-altitude scenery. This section provides a peaceful and rewarding trekking experience, allowing you to relax after the challenging visit to Tilicho Lake.

• Day 12: Trek from Shree Kharka (4,080 m) to Yak Kharka (4,050 m) (3-4 hours)

  The trek from Shree Kharka (4,080 m) to Yak Kharka (4,050 m) is a relatively short and scenic 3–4 hour walk that reconnects you with the main Annapurna Circuit trail. The route gently descends across open alpine landscapes, offering wide views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks, including Gangapurna and Annapurna III.As you traverse this peaceful high-altitude terrain, you pass through yak pastures and rugged mountain paths, where the environment feels remote and untouched. This section is less demanding yet visually rewarding, making it a comfortable and enjoyable transition toward the next stage of the trek.

  Overnight at Yak Kharka 

• Day 13: Trek from Yak Kharka (4,050 m) to Thorong High Camp (4,880 m), 5-6 hours

  The trek from Yak Kharka (4,050 m) to Thorong High Camp (4,880 m) is a challenging yet rewarding 5–6 hour ascent toward the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit.As you gain elevation, the landscape becomes increasingly barren and dramatic, with sweeping views of snow-covered peaks and deep mountain valleys.

  This section offers a true high-altitude experience, where thin air and raw Himalayan beauty create a sense of adventure and accomplishment. Along the way, trekkers pass small seasonal teahouses and encounter herders who rely on livestock in these harsh conditions, reflecting a resilient mountain lifestyle. Reaching Thorong High Camp provides a stunning vantage point of the surrounding peaks and prepares you for the early morning crossing of the iconic Thorong La Pass, making this a crucial and memorable part of the journey.

  Overnight at Thornag High Camp

• Day 14: Trek from Thorang la High Camp to Muktinath (3,800/12,467ft) via Thorong La pass (5416m/17764feet) (6-7 hours)

  The trek from Thorong High Camp (4,880 m) to Muktinath (3,800 m / 12,467 ft) via Thorong La Pass (5,416 m / 17,764 ft) is the most challenging and rewarding day of the Annapurna Circuit, taking around 5–6 hours. Starting early, the trail ascends through rugged, high-altitude terrain to the summit, where trekkers are rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. From the pass, a long descent leads into the dry, dramatic landscapes of Mustang, ending at the sacred site of Muktinath. This section offers a perfect blend of adventure, breathtaking scenery, and spiritual significance, making it a true highlight of the trek.

  Overnight at Muktinath

• Day 15: Drive from Muktinath to Pokhara (6-7 hours)

  The drive from Muktinath (3,800 m) to Pokhara (822 m) covers approximately 180 km and takes around 6–7 hours, offering a spectacular transition from the high-altitude landscapes of Mustang to the lush hills of central Nepal. The route passes through Jomsom and follows the Kali Gandaki River, showcasing dramatic views of deep gorges, arid cliffs, and distant Himalayan peaks such as Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. As the journey continues, the scenery gradually changes into green valleys, waterfalls, and terraced farmland. Road conditions vary from rough and dusty tracks in the upper sections to smoother paved roads closer to Pokhara, making the drive both adventurous and visually rewarding.
  Overnight at Pokhara

• Day 16: Flight/Drive from Pokhara to Kathamandu

  Today, you will either fly or drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu as per your travel plan. If you choose to fly, the journey takes approximately 25–30 minutes, offering breathtaking aerial views of the Annapurna and Himalayan ranges. Alternatively, the drive takes around 6–8 hours, passing through scenic hills, rivers, and traditional countryside landscapes.

  Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be warmly received by a Sherpa Himalaya representative and transferred to your hotel. After completing your incredible Annapurna Circuit with Jomsom trek, this is the perfect time to relax and unwind. Depending on your schedule, you may also explore the vibrant city, enjoy some local shopping, or take a short sightseeing tour around Kathmandu.

  Overnight at Kathmandu

   

• Day 17: Final Departure

  On your final day in Kathmandu, a Sherpa Himalaya representative will meet you at your hotel for a warm farewell before your departure. You will be comfortably transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport in time for your flight, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free exit from Nepal.

  Before saying goodbye, the team will express their gratitude for sharing this incredible Himalayan journey with you. As a token of appreciation, you will be presented with a traditional Buddhist scarf (Kha-tak), symbolizing peace, prosperity, long life, and harmony, along with a certificate marking your successful completion of the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek. With heartfelt thanks and a warm Namaste, the team bids you farewell, hoping to welcome you again for another unforgettable adventure in Nepal.