An incredible hike with an amazing group of people. Badri managed to get us in and out of Lukla on days when we thought flights may not be possible and he tried his very best to accommodate the needs of the group. The team of porters supporting Karen Darke were out of this world and did an incredible job, with big smiles. Wonderful people. The trek itself was incredible and we had fantastic weather during the whole trip. Although the ‘B Team’ snail ed it, we had an excellent adventure thanks to Badri and his very supportive team.
Travel Nepal
Himalayas Treks Pvt. Ltd.
Annapurna Circuit Via Tilicho 16 Days
The Annapurna Circuit Via Tilicho 16 Days is a classic Himalayan trekking adventure in the Annapurna region of Nepal. This trek combines the famous Annapurna Circuit route with the beautiful high-altitude Tilicho Lake, Manang Valley, Thorong La Pass, Muktinath, Jomsom, and Pokhara. The journey offers dramatic changes in landscape, from green river valleys and pine forests to dry alpine terrain, glacial lakes, high passes, and the trans-Himalayan scenery of Mustang.
This trek is perfect for fit trekkers who want a complete Annapurna adventure with culture, mountain views, and high-altitude challenge. The route passes through Chame, Pisang, Manang, Siri Kharka, Tilicho Base Camp, Tilicho Lake, Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi, Thorong La Pass, and Muktinath before descending to Jomsom and returning through Pokhara. The highest point is Thorong La Pass at 5,416m, while Tilicho Lake sits around 4,919m and is one of the major highlights of the trek.
Trip Highlights
- Explore the famous Annapurna Circuit trekking route.
- Visit Tilicho Lake, one of the highest and most beautiful lakes in Nepal.
- Cross Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters.
- Discover Manang Valley and its Tibetan-influenced culture.
- Trek through Chame, Pisang, Manang, Siri Kharka, Tilicho Base Camp, Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi, and Muktinath.
- Enjoy mountain views of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, Chulu range, Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu.
- Experience changing landscapes from green valleys to dry Mustang terrain.
- Visit Muktinath Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists.
- Drive through the Kali Gandaki Valley and Jomsom.
- Enjoy a complete high-altitude Annapurna adventure with local guide support.
Why Choose Annapurna Circuit Via Tilicho 16 Days?
The Annapurna Circuit Via Tilicho 16 Days is ideal for trekkers who want more than the standard Annapurna Circuit route. By adding Tilicho Lake, this itinerary becomes more scenic, more adventurous, and more rewarding.
The trek offers a powerful mix of nature and culture. Lower sections include rivers, forests, villages, waterfalls, and farmland. Higher sections include alpine valleys, dry cliffs, glacial scenery, high mountain lakes, and snow-covered passes. Manang Valley adds cultural depth, while Tilicho Lake and Thorong La Pass bring the main adventure highlights.
This package is best for trekkers with good fitness and previous hiking experience. It is more challenging than Annapurna Base Camp Trek because of the higher altitude, Tilicho Lake side trip, and Thorong La Pass crossing.
Best Season for Annapurna Circuit Via Tilicho
The best seasons for the Annapurna Circuit Via Tilicho 16 Days are spring and autumn.
Spring from March to May offers warmer weather, blooming forests in lower areas, and beautiful mountain views. Autumn from September to November is the most popular season because the weather is usually stable, the sky is clearer, and the mountain views are excellent.
Winter from December to February can be very cold in Manang, Tilicho Base Camp, Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi, and Thorong La Pass. Snow may make the high pass and Tilicho Lake trail difficult. Monsoon from June to August is less recommended because of rain, slippery trails, landslides, cloudy views, and road delays.
Trek Difficulty
The Annapurna Circuit Via Tilicho 16 Days is a challenging trek. It does not require technical climbing, but it includes long walking days, high altitude, steep trails, rocky sections, landslide-prone areas near Tilicho, and the difficult crossing of Thorong La Pass.
Daily walking is usually around 5 to 8 hours. The most demanding days are the trek to Tilicho Base Camp, the hike to Tilicho Lake, and the crossing of Thorong La Pass. Trekkers should have good fitness, proper trekking gear, and preparation before arrival.
Altitude sickness is possible because the trek reaches above 5,000 meters. Walk slowly, drink enough water, avoid alcohol, eat well, and follow your guide’s advice.
Permits for Annapurna Circuit Via Tilicho
The Annapurna Circuit Via Tilicho route lies inside the Annapurna Conservation Area, so trekkers need the required Annapurna trekking permits. The official NTNC e-permit portal manages conservation area permits and notes that trekkers must register at route check-posts.
Normally required permits:
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit
- TIMS card or trekking registration if required by the latest rule
- Licensed guide support recommended for safety and route management
Permit rules can change, so final permit requirements should always be checked before departure.
Trip Itinerary
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu – Transfer to Hotel
Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani
Day 03: Trek from Dharapani to Chame
Day 04: Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang
Day 05: Trek from Upper Pisang to Manang
Day 06: Acclimatization Day in Manang
Day 07: Trek from Manang to Siri Kharka
Day 08: Trek from Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp
Day 09: Hike to Tilicho Lake and Trek Back to Siri Kharka
Day 10: Trek from Siri Kharka to Yak Kharka
Day 11: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
Day 12: Trek to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass
Day 13: Drive from Muktinath to Jomsom
Day 14: Drive from Jomsom to Pokhara
Day 15: Drive or Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Day 16: Final Departure
Details Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu – Transfer to Hotel
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, you can rest or explore the nearby area. In the evening, your guide will provide a trek briefing about the Annapurna Circuit Via Tilicho 16 Days, including route information, permits, packing, altitude safety, weather, and daily walking plan.
- Lodging: Hotel in Kathmandu
- Inclusions: Welcome dinner
Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani
After breakfast, begin a scenic drive from Kathmandu toward the Annapurna region. The road follows rivers, terraced hillsides, market towns, and mountain valleys. You pass Besisahar and continue along the Marsyangdi Valley toward Dharapani, one of the main gateways to the Annapurna Circuit route.
- Lodging: Tea house / lodge in Dharapani
- Inclusions: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 03: Trek from Dharapani to Chame
Today the trek begins through forests, villages, and river valleys. The trail gradually climbs toward Chame, the district headquarters of Manang. Along the way, you may enjoy views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and surrounding peaks when the weather is clear. Chame is a comfortable stop with mountain lodges and a peaceful Himalayan atmosphere.
- Lodging: Tea house / lodge in Chame
- Inclusions: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 04: Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang
After breakfast, follow the trail through pine forests, narrow valleys, apple-growing areas, and dramatic rock faces. As you move higher, the landscape becomes drier and more alpine. Upper Pisang offers beautiful views of Annapurna II and the surrounding mountains. The village also gives a strong feeling of Tibetan-influenced culture.
- Lodging: Tea house / lodge in Upper Pisang
- Inclusions: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 05: Trek from Upper Pisang to Manang
Today is one of the most scenic walking days of the trek. The trail passes through high villages, dry landscapes, Buddhist chortens, prayer flags, and wide mountain views. You continue toward Manang, one of the most important villages on the Annapurna Circuit. Manang offers excellent views of Gangapurna, Annapurna III, Tilicho Peak, and Chulu range.
- Lodging: Tea house / lodge in Manang
- Inclusions: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 06: Acclimatization Day in Manang
Today is an important acclimatization day before heading toward Tilicho Lake and Thorong La Pass. You can rest in Manang or take a short hike to Gangapurna Lake, a nearby viewpoint, or the surrounding ridge depending on weather and your physical condition. This day helps your body adjust to altitude and prepares you for the higher section of the trek.
- Lodging: Tea house / lodge in Manang
- Inclusions: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 07: Trek from Manang to Siri Kharka
After breakfast, leave Manang and follow the trail toward Khangsar and Siri Kharka. The route passes dry hillsides, traditional settlements, and open mountain landscapes. As you move closer to the Tilicho Lake side route, the trail becomes quieter and more remote. Siri Kharka is a beautiful overnight stop with views of the surrounding hills and peaks.
- Lodging: Tea house / lodge in Siri Kharka
- Inclusions: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 08: Trek from Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp
Today you trek toward Tilicho Base Camp. The route crosses rocky and landslide-prone sections, so careful walking is important. The scenery becomes more dramatic with dry cliffs, alpine terrain, and views toward Tilicho Peak and surrounding mountains. Tilicho Base Camp is the main overnight stop before visiting Tilicho Lake.
- Lodging: Tea house / lodge at Tilicho Base Camp
- Inclusions: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 09: Hike to Tilicho Lake and Trek Back to Siri Kharka
Start early for the hike to Tilicho Lake. The trail climbs gradually through high-altitude terrain, and the air becomes thinner as you approach the lake. Tilicho Lake is one of the most beautiful highlights of the Annapurna Circuit Via Tilicho trek, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery and glacial landscapes.
After enjoying the lake and taking photos, descend carefully back toward Tilicho Base Camp and continue to Siri Kharka for the night. This is a long and rewarding day, so slow walking and proper hydration are important.
- Lodging: Tea house / lodge in Siri Kharka
- Inclusions: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 10: Trek from Siri Kharka to Yak Kharka
After breakfast, leave the Tilicho side route and rejoin the main trail toward Yak Kharka. The route passes through dry alpine landscapes, small settlements, and yak grazing areas. The walking pace should remain slow because the altitude is still high. Yak Kharka is an important stop before moving toward Thorong Phedi.
- Lodging: Tea house / lodge in Yak Kharka
- Inclusions: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 11: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
Today you trek toward Thorong Phedi, the base area for crossing Thorong La Pass. The trail includes gradual climbs, river crossings, and some landslide-prone sections. Your guide will choose the safest route and pace according to weather and trail conditions. After reaching Thorong Phedi, rest early and prepare for the long pass-crossing day.
- Lodging: Tea house / lodge in Thorong Phedi
- Inclusions: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 12: Trek to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass
Start very early in the morning for the climb to Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters. This is the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit Via Tilicho 16 Days and one of the most famous high trekking passes in Nepal. The ascent is slow and demanding because of altitude, cold, wind, and long walking hours.
From the pass, enjoy wide Himalayan views before descending toward Muktinath. Muktinath is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists. After the long crossing, you can rest and enjoy the dry Mustang-side landscape.
- Lodging: Tea house / lodge in Muktinath
- Inclusions: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 13: Drive from Muktinath to Jomsom
After breakfast, drive from Muktinath through the dry landscapes of Lower Mustang. The route passes through Jharkot, Kagbeni, and the Kali Gandaki Valley before reaching Jomsom. Jomsom is a windy mountain town and one of the main travel points in the Mustang region. The day is shorter and gives time to rest after the Thorong La crossing.
- Lodging: Hotel / lodge in Jomsom
- Inclusions: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 14: Drive from Jomsom to Pokhara
Today you drive from Jomsom to Pokhara through the Kali Gandaki Valley. The route passes Marpha, Tukuche, Tatopani, Beni, and other settlements depending on road conditions. The landscape changes from dry Mustang terrain to greener hills as you descend toward Pokhara. After reaching Pokhara, relax near Phewa Lake.
- Lodging: Hotel in Pokhara
- Inclusions: Breakfast, lunch
Day 15: Drive or Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu
After breakfast, return to Kathmandu by tourist bus, private vehicle, or flight according to your package arrangement. The road journey follows river valleys, hillsides, small towns, and countryside landscapes. After arriving in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a free evening.
- Lodging: Hotel in Kathmandu
- Inclusions: Breakfast, farewell dinner
Day 16: Final Departure
After breakfast, our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure. You leave Nepal with unforgettable memories of Annapurna Circuit, Tilicho Lake, Thorong La Pass, Muktinath, Manang, Jomsom, and the beautiful Himalayan landscapes.
- Lodging: Not included
- Inclusions: Breakfast
Cost Details
What’s Included
- Airport pickup and drop-off by private vehicle.
- Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu as per itinerary.
- Hotel accommodation in Pokhara as per itinerary.
- Ground transportation from Kathmandu to Dharapani.
- Ground transportation from Muktinath / Jomsom to Pokhara.
- Tourist bus, private vehicle, or flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu as per package arrangement.
- Tea house / lodge accommodation during trekking days.
- Breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek.
- Welcome dinner and farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
- Licensed English-speaking trekking guide.
- Porter service as per group size and package arrangement.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Permit.
- TIMS card or required trekking registration if applicable.
- Trekking route guidance and daily safety support.
- Basic first-aid support carried by guide.
- Government taxes and official service charges.
What’s Excluded
- International airfare.
- Nepal visa fee.
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara, except mentioned meals.
- Travel insurance, including emergency rescue and helicopter evacuation.
- Personal trekking equipment.
- Personal expenses such as Wi-Fi, hot shower, battery charging, laundry, snacks, bottled drinks, and extra tea or coffee.
- Extra cost caused by road blockage, landslide, bad weather, illness, rescue, flight cancellation, or itinerary change.
- Extra hotel nights before or after the trek.
- Tips for guide, porter, and driver.
- Any cost not mentioned in the included section.
FAQ
1. Where is Annapurna Circuit Via Tilicho located?
Annapurna Circuit Via Tilicho is located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The route travels through the Marsyangdi Valley, Manang, Tilicho Lake, Thorong La Pass, Muktinath, Jomsom, and Pokhara.
2. How many days is the Annapurna Circuit Via Tilicho trek?
This package is designed as a 16-day itinerary. It includes Kathmandu arrival, drive to Dharapani, trekking through Manang and Tilicho Lake, crossing Thorong La Pass, visiting Muktinath and Jomsom, returning through Pokhara, and final departure.
3. What is the highest altitude of this trek?
The highest point is Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters / 17,769 feet. Tilicho Lake is another major high-altitude highlight at around 4,919 meters.
4. How difficult is Annapurna Circuit Via Tilicho 16 Days?
This is a challenging trek. It includes long walking days, high altitude, rocky trails, landslide-prone sections near Tilicho, and the Thorong La Pass crossing. Good fitness and previous hiking experience are recommended.
5. What is the best time for Annapurna Circuit Via Tilicho?
The best time is spring from March to May and autumn from September to November. These seasons usually offer better weather, clearer mountain views, and safer high-pass conditions.
6. Do I need permits for this trek?
Yes. Trekkers need Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and trekking registration or TIMS card if required by the latest rule. Our company arranges the necessary permits before the trek.
7. Is Tilicho Lake difficult to reach?
Tilicho Lake is challenging because of high altitude, long walking hours, rocky trails, and cold weather. The hike is rewarding, but trekkers should walk slowly and follow the guide’s advice.
8. Is Thorong La Pass difficult?
Yes. Thorong La Pass is the hardest section of the trek. The climb starts early in the morning and involves high altitude, cold, wind, and long walking hours. Proper acclimatization and slow walking are important.
9. What kind of accommodation is available?
Accommodation is in hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara, and tea houses or mountain lodges during the trek. Rooms are usually basic twin-sharing rooms with shared toilets in mountain areas.
10. What meals are available during the trek?
Common meals include dal bhat, noodles, soup, fried rice, potatoes, pasta, eggs, Tibetan bread, pancakes, tea, coffee, and local lodge meals. Food choices become more limited at higher altitude.
11. Is altitude sickness possible?
Yes. The trek reaches above 5,000 meters, so altitude sickness is possible. Walk slowly, drink enough water, eat well, avoid alcohol, and follow your guide’s advice.
12. Can beginners do this trek?
Fit beginners with strong preparation may join, but previous hiking or trekking experience is recommended. This trek is more challenging than shorter Annapurna treks.
13. What mountains can I see on this trek?
You can see Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, Chulu range, Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and other Himalayan peaks depending on weather and viewpoint.
14. Are Wi-Fi and electricity available?
Wi-Fi and electricity are available in many villages, but they may cost extra and may not be reliable in higher areas. Charging and internet can be limited at Tilicho Base Camp, Thorong Phedi, and other remote stops.
15. What should I pack for Annapurna Circuit Via Tilicho?
Pack trekking boots, warm down jacket, fleece, base layers, waterproof jacket, trekking pants, gloves, warm hat, sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, headlamp, water bottle, personal medicine, sleeping bag, and trekking poles.
16. Why choose Annapurna Circuit Via Tilicho 16 Days?
Choose this trek if you want a complete Annapurna adventure with Tilicho Lake, Manang Valley, Thorong La Pass, Muktinath, Jomsom, mountain culture, high-altitude landscapes, and some of Nepal’s most beautiful Himalayan views.
Cost & Date
| Departure Date | Duration | Availability | Cost | Booking |
|---|
Route Map
Client Reviews
Mitchedberg
Vicky S
Date of experience: March 2025
Clare B
Date of experience: March 2025
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USD 1190Per Person
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An amazing experience – went trekking with 14 others in March / April 2025 and had a wonderful time. A big thank you to Badri and his crew for taking care of every logistical detail; flights, hotels, transportation in Kathmandu, transportation to and from the airport, money exchanges, restaurant reservations, sightseeing, optimal route pacing, gear transportation, and 100 other small details that would have left me flummoxed.
He and his team allow for a trek that’s as simplified as possible, you can focus your energy on getting to base camp, and they do everything else. They even bring you hot towels and lemon ginger tea at the end of each day (every morning too). I can’t say enough good things about the porters / guides, they were unbelievable, true heroes of our trip. We had some very unique challenges in our group, and without expert guides and porters we would absolutely not have had the same high quality experience. When I go back to Nepal for a second trek, I’m calling Badri. Badri is the guide you want – generous, personal, and you can tell he and his team deeply care about the well-being of their clients.
One more thing: Not once, but twice, Badri got our entire group flown from Kathmandu to Lukla (and back) on days when the weather was uncooperative. Both times, there was only a brief window when the clouds cleared — just enough for a single plane to make the journey — and guess whose plane was first in line? Even more impressive: while we were waiting at the airport, Badri already had a backup helicopter option lined up, just in case the planes didn’t fly. This kind of foresight and preparation gave us total peace of mind.