Tilicho Lake Via Annapurna Circuit
Mountain Hawk Trek
Annapurna RegionModerate

Tilicho Lake Via AnnapurnaCircuit

Visit Tilicho Lake (4,919m), which is the highest lake in the world, located in the Annapurna region.

View Itinerary
20
DaysTotal trek duration
5416m
Max AltitudeHighest point reached
Mar–Dec
Best SeasonIdeal trekking window
$1,475
FromPer person (twin sharing)
Trip Highlights

The moments that matter most

Visit Tilicho Lake (4,919 m), one of the world’s highest lakes, located in the Annapurna region.

Combine the adventure of the Annapurna Circuit with the beautiful sights of Tilicho.

Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), one of the highest trekking passes in Nepal.

Walk through a variety of landscapes, from subtropical forests to high alpine terrain.

Delve deep into the heritage of Manang, Pisang, and Muktinath.

Spectacular views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and more.

Experience natural hot springs in Tatopani (optional).

Trek through the Kali Gandaki, the deepest gorge in the world.

Trip Overview

A closer look

The Tilicho Lake Trek via Annapurna Circuit is an exciting blend of adventure, culture, and dramatic Himalayan scenery. The trek takes you into the vibrant Annapurna region to explore village settlements, magical rhododendron forests, and the dry alpine landscape of Manang. Tilicho Lake itself sits at a mind-boggling 4,919 m above sea level, making the trek both challenging and stunning, with panoramic views of snow-clad peaks mirrored in the deep blue waters of the lake.

After visiting Tilicho, the trail picks up the classic Annapurna Circuit route up to the legendary Thorong La Pass at 5,416 m. From Thorong La, you descend to the sacred site of Muktinath and cross the Kali Gandaki Valley before finishing your trek. This high-altitude route tests your endurance and offers one of the most memorable trekking experiences in Nepal.

This trek has everything for rugged adventurers and nature enthusiasts who long for pristine alpine beauty. It brings you face to face with some of the highest and most revered landscapes of the Himalayas.

01Why us

Why Book the Tilicho Lake Trek with Mountain Hawk Treks?

Mountain Hawk Treks specializes in authentic and safe trekking experiences in the Himalayas. Here is why we are your best partner for this high-altitude adventure:

01

Expert guides: our seasoned, English-speaking guides are trained in high-altitude safety and steeped in local culture.

02

Customized itineraries: we tailor the trip to your pace, interests, and fitness level.

03

Local knowledge: we have deep roots in the region for authentic experiences and insider access.

04

Safety first: medically trained staff, emergency oxygen, and satellite communication in remote areas.

05

All inclusive: from permits and transportation to accommodation and meals, we handle everything so you can focus on the trek.

02Expectations

What to Expect on the Trek

01

Breathtaking views of mountains and changing eco-zones as you walk.

02

A visit to Tilicho Lake, cradled by glaciers and towering peaks.

03

A tough climb to Thorong La Pass.

04

Immersion in culture while walking through remote Buddhist and Hindu villages.

05

A spiritual visit to the Muktinath Temple.

06

Authentic Nepali and Tibetan-style meals at comfortable teahouses.

07

Up-close views of Mount Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Tilicho Peak.

08

Nights spent in mountain lodge-style accommodation.

09

A heaven for photographers in some of the world’s most striking terrain.

03Who's it for

Who Is This Trek Suitable For?

The Tilicho Lake Trek via Annapurna Circuit is best suited to experienced trekkers who want an adventurous version of the classic Annapurna Circuit. You should be physically fit enough for long trekking days at high altitude.

Nature lovers and photographers who want to experience the surreal scenery of the Himalayas, as well as cultural enthusiasts interested in the traditions of remote Nepalese villages, will find the trek rewarding. No technical climbing is involved, but good fitness, trekking experience, and a spirit of adventure are essential.

04Preparation

How to Prepare for the Tilicho Lake Trek

01

Physical training: begin cardio and leg-strengthening exercises 6 to 8 weeks before your trek.

02

Altitude acclimatization: aim for a gradual gain in altitude with rest days built into the itinerary to prevent AMS.

03

Gear check: pack a good layered clothing system, a top-rated sleeping bag (rated to minus 10 degrees Celsius or lower), trekking poles, and quality hiking boots.

04

Hydration and nutrition: hydrate well and provide essential nutrients to your body before and during the trek.

05

Travel insurance: make sure your policy covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.

06

Mountain Hawk Treks provides a comprehensive gear checklist and preparation guide upon booking.

Route & Elevation

The trail, mapped

Elevation ProfileDay-by-day altitude
TrailPeak
4,450m3,613m2,775m1,938m1,100mKathmanduDharapaniChameUpper PisangManangSiri KharkaTilicho Base CampSiri KharkaYak KharkaThorang PediMuktinathTatopaniGhorepaniKathmandu4,450m
Itinerary

Day by day, on the trail

20 days from Kathmandu arrival to departure. Hover any day for full details.

Day01

Arrival in Kathmandu

Kathmandu

Arrive at Kathmandu airport (1,345 m). Overnight at hotel.

1,345mHotel
Day02

Drive to Besisahar

Besisahar

Drive to Besisahar, approximately 6 hours. Overnight at hotel.

865m6h trekHotel480m
Day03

Jeep Drive to Dharapani

Dharapani

Jeep drive to Dharapani (1,970 m) by local jeep, approximately 4 hours. Overnight at teahouse.

1,970m4h trekTeahouse1,105m
Day04

Trek to Chame

Chame

Trek to Chame (2,720 m), approximately 6 hours. Overnight at teahouse.

2,720m6h trekTeahouse750m
Day05

Trek to Upper Pisang

Upper Pisang

Trek to Upper Pisang (3,300 m), approximately 5 hours. Overnight at teahouse.

3,300m5h trekTeahouse580m
Day06

Trek to Manang via Ghyaru

Manang

Trek to Manang (3,400 m) via Ghyaru, approximately 5 hours. Overnight at teahouse.

3,400m5h trekTeahouse100m
Day07

Rest Day in Manang

Manang

A necessary day in Manang to rest, acclimatize, and explore the village. Overnight at teahouse.

3,400mTeahouse
Day08

Trek to Siri Kharka

Siri Kharka

Trek to Siri Kharka (4,060 m), approximately 5 hours. Overnight at teahouse.

4,060m5h trekTeahouse660m
Day09

Trek to Tilicho Base Camp

Tilicho Base Camp

Trek to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150 m), approximately 5 hours. Overnight at teahouse.

4,150m5h trekTeahouse90m
Day10

Visit Tilicho Lake & Return to Siri Kharka

Siri Kharka

Trek to visit Tilicho Lake (4,919 m) and return to Siri Kharka (4,060 m), approximately 9 hours. Overnight at teahouse.

4,060m9h trekTeahouse90m
Day11

Trek to Yak Kharka

Yak Kharka

Trek to Yak Kharka (4,000 m), approximately 7 hours. Overnight at teahouse.

4,000m7h trekTeahouse60m
Day12

Trek to Thorong Phedi

Thorong Phedi

Trek to Thorong Phedi (4,450 m), approximately 5 hours. Overnight at teahouse.

4,450m5h trekTeahouse450m
Day13

Cross Thorong La Pass to Muktinath

Muktinath

Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) and descend to Muktinath (3,800 m), approximately 10 hours. Overnight at teahouse.

3,800m10h trekTeahouse650m
Day14

Drive to Tatopani via Jomsom

Tatopani

Drive from Muktinath via Jomsom to Tatopani (1,100 m) by local jeep, approximately 5 hours. Overnight at teahouse.

1,100m5h trekTeahouse2,700m
Day15

Trek to Ghorepani

Ghorepani

Trek to Ghorepani (2,850 m), approximately 7 hours. Overnight at teahouse.

2,850m7h trekTeahouse1,750m
Day16

Trek to Nayapul & Drive to Pokhara

Pokhara

Trek to Nayapul and drive back to Pokhara, approximately 1 hour. Overnight at hotel.

865mHotel1,985m
Day17

Drive Back to Kathmandu

Kathmandu

Drive back to Kathmandu by tourist bus. Overnight at hotel.

1,345mHotel480m
Day18

Departure

Kathmandu

Transfer to the international airport for your final flight departure.

1,345mTransfer
Good to Know

Before you commit

Trek Cost

TierPrice
Per PersonTypical range. Exact cost depends on group size and customization.
USD 1,475 to 1,800
Package Details

What's in, what's out

What's Included

9

Airport to hotel to airport pickup and drop-off by private car, van, or bus.

Standard twin-sharing accommodation in Kathmandu (2 nights) and Pokhara (1 night), breakfast included.

Standard meals (lunch, dinner, and breakfast) and teahouse accommodation during the trek.

A government-licensed English-speaking guide for the trek, the required number of porters, and their food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, and a general first aid kit.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit and all other necessary permits.

Surface transfer from Kathmandu as per the itinerary.

Down jacket, duffel or kit bag, and sleeping bag (to be returned after the trek).

All applicable government taxes.

Tourist service charge and VAT.

Not Included

10

Lunch and dinner while in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Extra nights of accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Travel insurance (compulsory).

International airfare and airport departure tax.

Nepal entry visa fee.

Items of a personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, soft drinks, and laundry.

Personal trekking equipment.

Tips for trekking staff and driver.

Sightseeing and monument entrance fees.

Any other expenses not mentioned in the Price Includes section.

Add-on

Extra Nights in Kathmandu

Single Room$60per night · breakfast included
Twin Sharing$35per person / night · breakfast included

Dear Guest, We kindly offer the option of a flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu and back at an additional cost of US$100 per person . Additionally, should you require extra accommodation in Kathmandu, including breakfast, the rates are US$60 per person per night for a single room and US$35 per person per night for a double (twin sharing) room.

Gear Up

What to pack

The full kit that's built from years on the trail. Skip it at your own risk, bring it and you'll never think about it again.

Equipment

Packing checklist

26 items

Duffel bag ( Company provide complementary)

Daypack

Down Jacket and Sleeping bag 4 season ( if you need nice and clean down jacket and sleeping bag company provide which needs to be returned after the trek)

Hiking pants

Waterproof jacket

Full, sleeves shirt

Jumper or pile jacket

T, shirts

Trekking boots (Water proof)

Camp shoes/Sandal

wool socks

Light cotton socks for under wool socks( take quite several pairs of these too. Better to carry some extra weight rather than spend the whole time washing socks)

Sun hat

Beanie

Gloves

Sun block for lips

Sun lotion

Goggles or sunglasses ( with spare )

Thermal Long underwear (take quite a few pairs. Although the weather may be cold one tends to sweat a lot)

windproof pants

Water bottle

Sewing kit

Medical & first aid kit

Flash light ( with spare batteries)

Personal towel

Personal toiletries and medication which should be labelled Please.

Tight fitting, figure-hugging clothing, such as those made with Lycra can often be offensive to locals, especially on women. If you find these items comfortable as a base layer then please pack something to wear over the top of them.

Good to Know

Frequently asked questions

Still have questions? Tap through the answers below or reach out directly. We reply within the hour.

FAQs

The most asked

5
Trail Stories

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