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Trekking Miles

Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake

Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake

17 Days

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a captivating adventure in the Himalayas, beginning in the vibrant town of Besisahar. The trek unfolds through subtropical forests along the Marsyangdi River, showcasing diverse landscapes, from alpine meadows to high desert plateaus. Traditional villages, inhabited by Gurungs, Thakalis, and Manangis, offer cultural insights with unique architectural styles.

Trekking through the Annapurna Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reveals a kaleidoscope of flora and fauna, fostering responsible tourism practices. An optional detour leads to Tilicho Lake, a high-altitude gem at 4,920 meters, surrounded by towering peaks.

The trek’s highlight is the challenging ascent to Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters, providing unparalleled views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Descending, trekkers reach the sacred site of Muktinath, adding a spiritual dimension to the journey.

Passing through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the world’s deepest, and the apple orchard town of Jomsom, the trek concludes in Pokhara by the serene Phewa Lake. Trekkers reflect on diverse landscapes, cultural encounters, and personal achievements, defining this legendary trek in the heart of the Himalayas.

• Arrival at Kathmandu.
• Pickup from Kathmandu Airport.
• Check-in at the hotel.
• Relax and chill out in Kathmandu.

• Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat for 1300 m/8–9 hours by private vehicle.
• Embark on a scenic 170-km drive to Jagat, our trek’s starting point.
• Wind through hills, villages, and farming lands, crossing iconic rivers like Trishuli.
• Navigate north to Besi Sahar along the enchanting Marshyangdi River.
• Witness the beauty of Syange with its captivating high waterfall.
• Reach Jagat, a historic toll point on the ancient. salt-trade route to Tibet.
• Unwind at a cozy lodge in Jagat, gearing up for the upcoming Himalayan adventure.

• Follow the east bank of the Marshyangdi River, gradually ascending to Tal (1511m), the first village in Manang district.
• Traverse a broad, flat gorge, passing barley and potato fields, then climb sharply on a stone stair way with ups and downs through blue pine jungles.
• Reach Dharapani (1946m), nestled in a scenic landscape.
• Overnight stay at a lodge in Dharapani, preparing for the next leg of the journey.

• Depart from Dharapani, passing a school, and gently ascend and descend to Bagarchhap, a tranquil village with Tibetan houses and a serene Buddhist atmosphere.
• Ascend along a mule track through pine and fir forests, following a stream amidst higher oak and maple trees.
• Traverse small villages before reaching Chame (2670m), the next stop on our journey.
• Overnight stay at a lodge in Chame, immersing in the picturesque surroundings.

• Trek along Marshyangdi’s trails to Brathang.
• Offering a breathtaking close-up view of Annapurna II (7937m).
• Pass through a forest with the stunning Paungda.
• Danda rock face rising over 5.000 feet.
• Cross a suspension bridge, ascend, and then descend to the valley floor.
• Traverse dry grazing land to reach Dhukur Pokhari, continuing to Pisang (3,190m) with excellent views of the Annapurna range and Pisang Peak (6091m).
• Overnight stay at a lodge in Pisang, soaking in the scenic beauty of the surroundings.

• Trek through the challenging Nyesyang region, starting from Upper Pisang, with captivating landscapes.
• Explore Ghyaru, a village surrounded by meadows and charming stone houses.
• Reach Ngawal with a gompa and ancient juniper trees.
• Descend to Mungji and head to the renowned Thakali village of Upper Manang for stunning views.
• Overnight stay at a lodge in Upper Manang, enjoying the Annapurna Range scenery.

• Acclimatization/rest day.
• Hike to Chhunker viewpoint, relishing the views of Gangapurna Lake and the Annapurna Range.
• Return for a typical Thakali lunch.
• Afternoon hike to Cave Gompa (4500m) for another stunning view of the Annapurna Range.
• Overnight stay at the lodge in Upper Manang.

• Walk for about 2 hours to Khangsar village, visiting the monastery.
• Cross several suspension bridges over Khangsar Khola, continuing uphill on an unclear path.
• Reach Thare Gompa for a 360-degree view of the Annapurna region mountains
• Overnight stay at a lodge in Thare Gompa.

• Follow Khangsar Khola upstream, climbing through an unclear trail.
• Navigate a big landslide zone and narrow paths to a close-up view of Tilicho Peak (7134m) and other surrounding peaks.
• Overnight stay at a lodge in Tilicho Base Camp.

• Early morning ascent for about 3 hours to reach Tilicho Lake, the world’s highest lake for its size. Marvel at the breathtaking reflection of the surrounding hills and mountains in the pristine lake.
• Spend time soaking in the tranquility of the environment.
• Hike back to the lodge in Tilicho Base Camp for the overnight stay.

• Leave Tilicho Base Camp, reminiscing about Tilicho Lake and the surrounding mountains.
• Retrace our way across the big landslide zone, arriving at Thare Gompa.
• Enjoy the company of the surrounding mountains throughout the trek.
• Overnight stay at a lodge in Thare Gompa.

• Ascend alongside Thorung Khola from Thare Gompa, joining the main Annapurna Circuit trekking trail.
• Steep ascent to the last permanent settlement, Tenki, near Thorung La.
• Continue the journey, gradually outlining meadows, to reach Yak Kharka (3900m).
• Overnight stay at a lodge in Yak Kharka.

• A difficult trek to Thorang Phedi, passing through Ledar village and climbing amidst immense cliffs.
• Witness spectacular views of peaks, including Gundang (5312m). Syagang (6026m). Thorung (644m) and Khatungkang (6484 m).
• “Phedi” in Nepali signifies the foot of a mountain.
• Overnight stay at a lodge in Thorong Phedi.

• Early start from Phedi for a challenging trek to Thorong La Pass (5416m), the world’s highest pass.
• Enjoy breathtaking views of the Annapurna range to the south and Mukut Himal (6473m) to the west from the pass.
• Descend over glacial moraine, passing through lush fields before reaching Muktinath, a significant Hindu pilgrimage site.
• Experience the holy water flowing from the 108 carved taps surrounding the temple.
• Drive to Jomsom after Darshan.
• Overnight stay at a lodge in Jomsom.

• Board a short 30-minute flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, providing stunning aerial views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
• Arrive in Pokhara, a serene lakeside city nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas.
• Spend the afternoon exploring Pokhara, known for its tranquil lakes, vibrant markets, and stunning views of the Annapurna range.
• Relax by Phewa Lake or engage in optional activities such as boating or visiting local attractions.
• Check into your hotel in Pokhara for a comfortable overnight stay.

• Begin the day with a scenic drive back to Kathmandu from Pokhara.
• Enjoy the changing landscapes as you travel by tourist bus.
• Take a break for lunch at a scenic spot along the route, allowing for relaxation and the chance to savor local cuisine.
• Optionally, visit attractions on the way, such as the picturesque town of Bandipur or other points of interest.
• Continue the drive back to Kathmandu, completing the journey by evening.
• Check into your hotel in Kathmandu and unwind after the road trip.

Day 17 :
Departure

• Depending on your departure time, spend your last morning in Kathmandu at leisure.
• Consider revisiting favorite spots, shopping for souvenirs, or enjoying a relaxing morning in the city.
• Check out of your hotel and transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure.
• Bid farewell to Nepal, carrying with you the memories of the Annapurna Circuit trek and the cultural richness of the region.

Cost Includes

  • Guide and Porter
  • Flight (Jomsom to Pokahra)
  • 2N Stay Kathmandu
  • 1N: Stay in Pokhara
  • All permits
  • 3-time meal at Trails

 

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