Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake

Trip Code: NP-36 Country: Nepal Duration: 18 Days Best Time: Mar to May & Sep to Nov Base Price: 1895 USD Level: Challenging Season: Autumn, Spring

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Tilicho Lake, Annapurna Circuit Trek. Nepal

Overview

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek — Overview

The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake is one of the finest long-distance treks in the world — an 18-day loop around the entire Annapurna massif that passes through a greater diversity of landscape, climate, and culture than almost any other walk on earth. The route begins in the subtropical lowlands of the Marsyangdi River valley, climbs through temperate pine forests and apple orchards past the extraordinary viewpoints of Ghyaru and Ngawal, into the high-altitude plateau world of Manang (3,500m), and ultimately over the Thorong La Pass (5,416m) — one of the world’s highest regularly crossed trekking passes — before descending into the rain-shadowed desert of the Mustang Valley and the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath.

The inclusion of Tilicho Lake (4,919m) — the highest lake of its size on earth — adds a full dedicated detour day and represents the trek’s single most spectacular reward. Sitting in a glacial bowl directly beneath the immense walls of Tilicho Peak (7,134m), the lake can only be reached by a pre-dawn start from Tilicho Base Camp. The approach trail traverses a steep and crumbling landslide section; the view on arrival is worth every step.

This itinerary concludes with the Poon Hill extension — a three-day addition via Ghorepani that brings trekkers to the finest panoramic sunrise viewpoint in Nepal, with Dhaulagiri and the full Annapurna range rising above the clouds at dawn — before the return to Pokhara and onward to Kathmandu.

This is a tea-house trek throughout: no camping, no tents, no expedition infrastructure required. Each night is spent in a local guesthouse along the trail, which are well-established and comfortable by Himalayan standards. This makes the Annapurna Circuit genuinely accessible to motivated trekkers who are physically prepared but not experienced expedition travellers — provided they understand that Thorong La at 5,416m is a genuine high-altitude challenge requiring proper acclimatisation, an early start, and respect for mountain weather.

Deciding between the Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp? Read our detailed comparison to find which trek suits your fitness, timeline, and goals.

Important Notes

Best Seasons: March–May (spring) and September–November (autumn). Spring brings rhododendron in bloom on the lower trails and clear skies before the monsoon. Autumn is the most popular season — stable weather, sharp mountain visibility, and Thorong La at its most manageable. Avoid the monsoon months (June–August) and deep winter (December–February) when Thorong La is dangerous or closed.
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging. The daily distances and altitude gain are manageable for well-prepared trekkers with no prior high-altitude experience, but Thorong La Pass at 5,416m and the approach night at High Camp (4,925m) demand genuine physical readiness and a healthy respect for altitude. Read our guide to altitude sickness in the Himalaya before departure.
Highest Point: Thorong La Pass, 5,416m (Day 10). Thorong High Camp at 4,925m is the overnight high point (Day 9). Tilicho Lake at 4,919m is the detour high point (Day 7).
Tilicho Lake: At 4,919m, Tilicho is the world’s highest lake of its size. The detour adds one night at Tilicho Base Camp (Day 6) and a full day of hiking (Day 7, approximately 22 km with an early start). It is not technically difficult but is long and strenuous. It is the defining highlight of this itinerary and should not be skipped.
Jomsom Flight: The route exits via a short flight from Jomsom to Pokhara — a 20-minute flight that must depart before 9:00 AM as afternoon winds make flying impossible. Weather cancellations are common, particularly in spring. Day 17 is a dedicated buffer day to absorb any flight delay without affecting international connections.
Permits: Two permits are required: the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and the TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System). Summit Routes arranges both permits on your behalf. See our permits and visa guide for full details.
Fitness Standard: Must be comfortable trekking 10–18 km daily for up to 8–9 hours with sustained elevation gain. The pass day (Day 10) is 16 km and 7–8 hours including 1,600m of ascent from High Camp to Thorong La. Prior multi-day hiking experience is strongly recommended. If this is your first high-altitude experience, consider a shorter acclimatisation trek beforehand.
Tea-house Trekking: Accommodation throughout the trail is in local tea-houses and guest-houses — simple but adequate. Hot showers (sometimes solar-heated), Wi-Fi (intermittent above Manang), and charging facilities are generally available. Tilicho Base Camp has very limited beds — arriving by 2:00 PM on Day 6 is essential during peak season.
Acclimatisation: The itinerary includes a mandatory rest day at Manang (Day 5) with a recommended acclimatisation hike to Ice Lake (4,600m), and an afternoon session at the Himalayan Rescue Association clinic in Manang — the only staffed altitude medical facility on the circuit. Do not skip either of these.

Brief Itinerary

Day 1	Arrive Kathmandu (1,400m) — Trek Briefing
Day 2	Drive Kathmandu to Chame (2,670m)
Day 3	Trek Chame to Upper Pisang (3,300m)
Day 4	Trek Upper Pisang to Manang (3,500m) via Ghyaru & Ngawal
Day 5	Acclimatisation Day — Manang — Hike to Ice Lake (4,600m)
Day 6	Trek Manang to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m)
Day 7	Hike to Tilicho Lake (4,919m) — Return to Manang
Day 8	Trek Manang to Yak Kharka (4,020m)
Day 9	Trek Yak Kharka to Thorong High Camp (4,925m)
Day 10	Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m) — Trek to Muktinath (3,760m)
Day 11	Trek Muktinath to Jomsom (2,720m) via Kagbeni
Day 12	Fly Jomsom to Pokhara (820m)
Day 13	Drive Pokhara to Nayapul — Trek to Ulleri (1,960m)
Day 14	Trek Ulleri to Ghorepani (2,860m)
Day 15	Poon Hill Sunrise (3,210m) — Trek to Nayapul — Drive to Pokhara
Day 16	Pokhara Sightseeing — Drive to Kathmandu
Day 17	Buffer Day / Free Day in Kathmandu
Day 18	Departure from Kathmandu

Altitude Profile

Itinerary

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake — 18-Day Itinerary (Kathmandu to Kathmandu)

Route: Marsyangdi Valley — Manang — Tilicho Lake — Thorong La — Mustang — Poon Hill — Pokhara

Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu (1,400m) — Trek Briefing

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) and private transfer to hotel in Kathmandu.
Afternoon reserved for equipment checks and permit verification. If you have gear to buy or rent, Thamel has everything needed.
Evening trek briefing: 18-day route overview, altitude profile and acclimatisation strategy, Tilicho detour logistics, Thorong La pass plan, and Jomsom flight considerations.
Overnight: Hotel Amaryllis or similar, Kathmandu
Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Drive Kathmandu to Chame (2,670m)

Drive: ~175 km | 7–8 hours via Besisahar and Dharapani

Early departure from Kathmandu. The road follows the Marsyangdi River westward and then northward — a long but increasingly dramatic drive as the valley narrows and the first Himalayan peaks appear above the ridgelines.
The route passes through Besisahar, the traditional circuit start for trekkers who walk the full lower section, before continuing by vehicle through Dharapani to Chame — the administrative centre of Manang district.
First views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II (7,937m) on the approach to Chame.
Overnight: Tea-house in Chame
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 3: Trek Chame to Upper Pisang (3,300m)

Trek: ~17 km | 6–7 hours

The first full trekking day follows the Marsyangdi through dense pine forest, apple orchards, and narrow canyon sections — the dramatic Paungda Danda rock face rises steeply to the right of the trail for much of the morning.
The valley opens progressively as you gain altitude, and the first full views of Annapurna II (7,937m) appear on the upper approach to Pisang — a visual announcement that the high-mountain world is now properly entered.
Stay in Upper Pisang rather than Lower Pisang — the extra 100m of altitude and the monastery setting above the valley make it the better acclimatisation choice and the superior viewpoint.
Overnight: Tea-house in Upper Pisang
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Trek Upper Pisang to Manang (3,500m) via Ghyaru & Ngawal

Trek: ~18 km | 6–7 hours

The high route via Ghyaru (3,670m) and Ngawal is unambiguously superior to the valley floor trail — it gains altitude more gradually and delivers sweeping panoramas of Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak throughout the morning.
Ghyaru is a traditional Tibetan-influenced village clinging to the hillside with a small gompa and extraordinary views — allow time here. The trail between the two ridge villages is one of the finest walking sections on the entire circuit.
Descend to the valley floor and arrive at Manang (3,500m) — the largest settlement on the circuit, with multiple tea-houses, a bakery, a small hospital, and the all-important Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) clinic.
Overnight: Tea-house in Manang
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Acclimatisation Day — Manang — Hike to Ice Lake (4,600m)

A mandatory full rest and acclimatisation day at Manang before the high-altitude section. Do not attempt to skip this day — the ascent from Manang (3,500m) to Thorong High Camp (4,925m) across Days 8–9 is steep and demands proper acclimatisation.
Morning acclimatisation hike to Ice Lake (4,600m) — approximately 3–4 hours return, with outstanding panoramic views of Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and the full Manang valley. This hike is strongly recommended and doubles as a fitness gauge for the guide before the pass section.
Afternoon attendance at the HRA altitude awareness briefing at the Manang clinic — the only staffed altitude medical facility on the entire circuit, staffed seasonally by volunteer doctors. The session covers AMS recognition and management. Attendance is strongly recommended for all trekkers, and mandatory for any trekker with no prior high-altitude experience.
Overnight: Tea-house in Manang
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Trek Manang to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m)

Trek: ~12 km | 5–6 hours

Leave the main Annapurna Circuit trail and head west on the Tilicho Lake detour — a less-travelled path that immediately feels quieter and more remote than the main route.
The trail crosses a steep landslide section on the approach to Tilicho Base Camp — careful footing is required and the exposure is genuine. The path is well-used and the hazard is manageable with attention; trekking poles are helpful here.
Descend to Tilicho Base Camp lodge (4,150m) — the only accommodation in the area. Beds are limited and fill quickly in peak season. Arrive by 2:00 PM to secure your room; late arrivals may find it full.
Early dinner and an early night — the following day begins at 5:00 AM.
Overnight: Tea-house at Tilicho Base Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Hike to Tilicho Lake (4,919m) — Return to Manang (3,500m)

Trek: ~22 km | 8–9 hours total

Early start at 5:00–5:30 AM to reach Tilicho Lake before afternoon winds develop — winds at the lake build strongly by midday and can make the return section unpleasant if you arrive late.
The ascent from Base Camp to the lake takes 2.5–3 hours through rocky terrain with increasingly dramatic views of the surrounding peaks. The final approach crests a ridge and the lake appears suddenly in a glacial bowl below Tilicho Peak's south face — an extraordinary arrival.
Tilicho Lake (4,919m) — at this altitude, the highest lake of its size on earth. The turquoise water reflects Tilicho Peak (7,134m) directly above. Allow time at the lake before beginning the descent.
Return to Base Camp for a late breakfast, then continue down and across to Manang via a slightly different trail — a long afternoon but the altitude loss to 3,500m aids recovery significantly.
Overnight: Tea-house in Manang
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Trek Manang to Yak Kharka (4,020m)

Trek: ~10 km | 4–5 hours

Resume the main Annapurna Circuit heading north toward Thorong La. A deliberately short day — the body needs gradual altitude gain after the Tilicho detour and Manang days before the serious high-altitude work of Days 9–10.
The landscape above Manang opens into wide yak pastures with close views of Chulu West (6,419m) and the surrounding high peaks. The trail is straightforward and allows for relaxed pacing.
Yak Kharka (4,020m) is a small settlement with basic but adequate tea-houses and yaks grazing the surrounding hillsides. The quietness after Manang's relative bustle is welcome.
Overnight: Tea-house in Yak Kharka
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Trek Yak Kharka to Thorong High Camp (4,925m)

Trek: ~7 km | 4–5 hours

Another intentionally short day — arriving at High Camp with energy in reserve is far more important than the distance covered. The climb from Yak Kharka passes through Thorong Phedi before the steep final ascent to Thorong High Camp (4,925m).
Check in early. Drink fluids continuously throughout the afternoon. Many trekkers experience headache, reduced appetite, or disturbed sleep at this altitude — these symptoms are expected and should be monitored, not ignored.
Early dinner by 6:00 PM and sleep by 8:00 PM. The pass crossing requires a pre-dawn departure and rest is critical.
Overnight: Tea-house at Thorong High Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m) — Trek to Muktinath (3,760m)

Trek: ~16 km | 7–8 hours total

Pre-dawn departure at 4:00–4:30 AM — this is non-negotiable. The pass window closes with afternoon wind and cloud; teams that start late face significantly harder and more dangerous conditions.
The ascent from High Camp to the pass takes 4–5 hours of sustained climbing through loose scree, snow patches, and exposed ridgeline terrain. At Thorong La (5,416m), the prayer-flag-crowned summit delivers an extraordinary panorama: the entire Annapurna massif to the south, the Mustang plateau unfolding ahead to the north, and on clear days the distant peaks of Dhaulagiri and beyond.
The descent to Muktinath (3,760m) is steep and long on the western flank — trekking poles are essential. The total descent from the pass is approximately 1,650m.
Muktinath is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in the Himalaya — revered equally by Hindus and Buddhists. The 108-spout fountain, the Jwala Mai temple where natural gas flames burn from the ground, and the ancient monastery are all worth visiting in the late afternoon after the pass crossing.
Overnight: Tea-house in Muktinath
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Trek Muktinath to Jomsom (2,720m) via Kagbeni

Trek: ~18 km | 5–6 hours

A long descent through the Kali Gandaki Gorge — technically the deepest gorge in the world, flanked by Dhaulagiri (8,167m) to the west and Annapurna I (8,091m) to the east. The scale is vertiginous.
Pass through Kagbeni (2,810m), the medieval gateway town to Upper Mustang — a restricted-area zone requiring a special permit. The ancient fort and monastery at Kagbeni are well worth a short stop. The white-washed houses and narrow stone lanes feel untouched by time.
Continue along the river to Jomsom, the administrative capital of Mustang district and the base for tomorrow's flight. Afternoon winds in the Kali Gandaki are strong and reliable — the descent is typically done with a tailwind, which provides some ironic assistance.
Overnight: Tea-house in Jomsom
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Fly Jomsom to Pokhara (820m)

Flight: ~20 minutes | Must depart before 9:00 AM

Early morning transfer to Jomsom Airport for the flight to Pokhara. This is one of the most scenic short flights in Nepal — the aircraft passes between the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna massifs in a corridor of extraordinary mountain views. The flight must depart before 9:00 AM; afternoon winds make flying impossible.
Weather cancellations are the most common disruption on this entire itinerary — particularly in spring when unstable weather is common in the Kali Gandaki. Day 17 exists specifically as a buffer for this eventuality. Do not book non-refundable onward flights without the buffer day accounted for.
Arrive Pokhara (820m) and transfer to hotel. The altitude loss from Jomsom is dramatic — the air feels thick and warm, an unusual sensation after ten days above 3,000m.
Rest afternoon. The physical demands of Days 9–11 have been significant; this is a genuine recovery day.
Overnight: Hotel Kantipur or similar, Pokhara
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 13: Drive Pokhara to Nayapul — Trek to Ulleri (1,960m)

Drive: ~1.5 hours to Nayapul • Trek: ~7 km | 3–4 hours

Begin the Poon Hill extension — a three-day addition that brings the circuit to its photographic conclusion with the finest panoramic sunrise viewpoint in Nepal.
Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul and begin trekking along the Modi Khola valley through Birethanti — a pleasant stone-paved village at the confluence of two rivers and the ACAP permit checkpoint.
Steady climb to Ulleri on stone steps through forest. After the vast scale of the main circuit, the intimate green forest of the Annapurna foothills feels like a different country entirely.
Overnight: Tea-house in Ulleri
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14: Trek Ulleri to Ghorepani (2,860m)

Trek: ~10 km | 5–6 hours

Through dense rhododendron forest — in October, the autumn colour turns the canopy amber and gold; in spring (March–April), the same forest is brilliant with red and pink rhododendron bloom. Either season is exceptional.
Arrive at Ghorepani (2,860m) with time for an optional evening walk to the ridge above the village for sunset views of Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Annapurna South. Ghorepani has numerous tea-houses, a lively atmosphere, and is the assembly point for dozens of trekkers preparing for the Poon Hill sunrise.
Overnight: Tea-house in Ghorepani
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15: Poon Hill Sunrise (3,210m) — Trek to Nayapul — Drive to Pokhara

Hike to Poon Hill: ~45 min return | Trek to Nayapul: ~12 km | 4–5 hours

Pre-dawn departure (approximately 5:00 AM) for the 45-minute hike to Poon Hill viewpoint (3,210m). The lookout tower at Poon Hill offers what is widely considered the finest accessible panoramic sunrise view of the Himalaya in Nepal — Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Tukuche Peak, Nilgiri, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna I, and on very clear mornings the distant tip of Manaslu are all simultaneously visible above a sea of cloud filling the lower valleys.
Return to Ghorepani for breakfast, then descend via Tikhedhunga to Nayapul. The descent is long and sustained on stone stairs — trekking poles are recommended.
Drive from Nayapul back to Pokhara. Rest evening.
Overnight: Hotel Kantipur or similar, Pokhara
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16: Pokhara Sightseeing — Drive to Kathmandu

Free morning in Pokhara — options include a Phewa Lake boat ride to the Tal Barahi temple island, a visit to Davis Falls and the Gupteshwor Cave opposite, or simply the lakeside promenade with views of Machhapuchhre reflected in the water.
Afternoon departure to Kathmandu by tourist bus or private vehicle (~7–8 hours) or morning flight option (~30 minutes — optional upgrade, ask on enquiry).
Overnight: Hotel Amaryllis or similar, Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 17: Buffer Day / Free Day in Kathmandu

A dedicated contingency day to absorb any weather-related delays on the Jomsom flight or unforeseen disruptions on the Thorong La crossing. Do not book non-refundable onward connections before this day.
If no delays have occurred, use the day for Kathmandu sightseeing: Boudhanath Stupa (one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world), Pashupatinath Temple on the Bagmati River (the most sacred Hindu site in Nepal), or the traditional craft shops of Thamel.
Overnight: Hotel Amaryllis or similar, Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast

Day 18: Departure from Kathmandu

Private transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) for onward flights to Delhi, Doha, Dubai, or your home country.
Meals: Breakfast

Pricing

NP-36 – Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake (18 Days)
Starting from USD 1,895 per person
(Based on 2 trekkers, private guide & porter support)

Includes domestic flights, experienced local guide, porter support, permits & full trek logistics — no hidden costs.

👉 Request Custom Itinerary & Quote

Not sure whether to book direct or through a platform? Read why it matters on a high-altitude trek like this one.

INCLUDED

All private transportation throughout the entire programme (airport transfers, Kathmandu–Chame, Nayapul–Pokhara, Pokhara–Kathmandu)
17 nights accommodation:
- 2 nights hotel in Kathmandu (twin sharing, attached bathroom)
- 2 nights hotel in Pokhara (twin sharing, attached bathroom)
- 13 nights in tea-houses and guest-houses throughout the trek (twin sharing)
All required trekking permits: ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit) and TIMS card
English-speaking local Nepali trekking guide throughout the trek
Porter support (1 porter per 2 trekkers) for main luggage on all trail days
Meals as specified in the day-to-day itinerary
Domestic flight: Jomsom to Pokhara (Day 12)
Altitude sickness awareness briefing at the HRA Manang clinic (Day 5)
All entrance fees, government taxes, and service charges

NOT INCLUDED

International flights to/from Kathmandu
Nepal visa fees
Travel insurance (mandatory — must cover high-altitude trekking above 5,500m and helicopter evacuation)
Personal expenses (laundry, phone, extra snacks, beverages, hot shower fees at tea-houses, etc.)
Tips for guide and porter
Pokhara–Kathmandu flight upgrade (optional — ask on enquiry)
Anything not mentioned under "Included"

Group Pricing (indicative per person)

Group Size	Price (USD) per Person
2 persons	1,895
3–4 persons	1,695
5–8 persons	1,550
9+ persons	On request

Hotel List

Accommodation

Kathmandu (2 Nights — Arrival & Return)

Accommodation in Kathmandu is arranged at Hotel Amaryllis or a similar centrally located hotel in the Thamel area. Rooms are twin sharing with attached bathroom, hot shower, electricity, and Wi-Fi. The arrival night provides time for the trek briefing, equipment checks, and permit verification. The return night (Day 16) and buffer day (Day 17) provide time for recovery, Kathmandu sightseeing, and a comfortable final evening before departure.

Pokhara (2 Nights)

Accommodation in Pokhara is arranged at Hotel Kantipur or a similar lakeside hotel. Twin sharing with attached bathroom, hot shower, and Wi-Fi. The first Pokhara night (Day 12) is a recovery evening after the demands of the Thorong La crossing and the Mustang descent. The second night (Day 15) follows the Poon Hill descent and the drive from Nayapul — a final comfortable night before the return journey to Kathmandu.

Trek — Tea-Houses and Guest-Houses (13 Nights)

Accommodation throughout the trail is in local tea-houses and guest-houses in Chame, Upper Pisang, Manang (three nights: Days 4, 5, and 7), Tilicho Base Camp, Yak Kharka, Thorong High Camp, Muktinath, Jomsom, Ulleri, and Ghorepani. Standard rooms are twin sharing with basic furnishings; attached bathrooms are available in most locations, though shared bathrooms are common at higher elevations and smaller settlements. Hot showers are generally available (solar-heated or wood-fired) at an additional charge of USD 1–3 per shower above Manang.

A few practical notes on specific accommodations: Manang has the widest selection of tea-houses on the circuit and is the most comfortable overnight stop before the high-altitude section. Tilicho Base Camp has one lodge with limited capacity — arriving by 2:00 PM on Day 6 is essential during peak season (October). Thorong High Camp is basic by necessity — warm sleeping gear is the priority here, not comfort. Jomsom has the widest range of options on the Mustang side and functions as a proper town.

What to Pack

What to Pack — Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake

The Annapurna Circuit spans an extraordinary altitude range — from 820m in Pokhara to 5,416m at Thorong La Pass — across 18 days. Pack for the full range: warm, humid lowlands on the Marsyangdi approach; cold, dry nights above Manang; pre-dawn summit conditions at Thorong La where wind chill regularly reaches -15°C or below even in October; and a warm return through the Poon Hill rhododendron forests.

This is a tea-house trek throughout — no sleeping bags, tents, or camping gear are needed unless you prefer your own sleeping bag (recommended). Porters carry the main duffel bag between tea-houses; you carry only a daypack on trail. Focus your packing on layered clothing, footwear, and personal health essentials.

Clothing & Layers

Down or synthetic insulated jacket rated to -10°C — essential for nights above Manang, Thorong High Camp, and the pre-dawn pass departure. Cold on the Thorong La approach is routinely underestimated by first-time trekkers.
Waterproof hardshell jacket — for Thorong La conditions and afternoon weather changes above 4,000m. Nepal mountain weather shifts quickly.
Fleece mid-layer × 2
Moisture-wicking base layers (top and bottom) × 3 — merino wool manages temperature and odour better than synthetic over 18 days with limited laundry access.
Trekking trousers × 2 — lightweight and fast-drying. Not jeans.
Waterproof over-trousers — for Thorong La and wet days on the lower trail.
Thermal leggings × 1–2 — for nights at High Camp and Thorong La descent.
Warm hat and wide-brimmed sun hat — both. UV intensity above 4,000m is high; a sun hat is as important as a warm hat on the approach days.
Balaclava or buff × 2 — for the pre-dawn Thorong La start and for dust in the Kali Gandaki gorge on Day 11.
Trekking gloves — a lightweight liner pair and a heavier insulated outer pair for the pass morning.
Trekking socks × 4–5 pairs — heavyweight wool preferred for long approach days.
Sandals or camp shoes — for rest time at tea-houses.

Footwear

Waterproof trekking boots — fully broken in before arrival. The combination of Thorong La snow and scree, the stone stairs on the Poon Hill approach, and 18 days of continuous use makes boot fit and waterproofing critical. Unbroken boots will end your trek before the pass.
Microspikes — recommended for Thorong La (5,416m). Snow and ice on the upper section are common in autumn (October–November) and the guide may require them. Lightweight and easily stowed in your daypack.
Trekking poles × 2 — strongly recommended, particularly for the steep descent from Thorong La to Muktinath (1,650m of loss) and the Poon Hill descents. Two poles reduce knee stress significantly over a multi-day circuit.
Gaiters — useful for snow on the Thorong La upper approach and wet grass on the Poon Hill section.

Personal Health & Safety

Altitude medication — consult your doctor about Diamox before departure. The circuit arrives at 3,500m on Day 4 and reaches 4,925m on Day 9. The acclimatisation day at Manang helps, but the profile is still rapid for trekkers from sea level. Read our altitude sickness guide.
Personal first aid kit — blister plasters, ibuprofen, paracetamol, antihistamines, rehydration sachets, anti-diarrhoeal tablets. Tea-houses above Manang do not sell medicines reliably.
UV-protective sunglasses — Category 3–4 — UV intensity at Thorong La and Tilicho Lake is severe. Wrap-around frames strongly preferred. Snow blindness is a real risk on the pass if eye protection fails.
High-SPF sunscreen (50+) — carry enough for the full 18 days.
Lip balm with SPF — wind and UV at high altitude cause rapid lip damage.
Water purification tablets — for stream water and as a backup when tea-house boiled water is unavailable.
Hand sanitiser — tea-house water quality varies.
Personal prescription medicines — carry double your required quantity.

Gear & Equipment

Sleeping bag rated to -10°C (optional but recommended) — most tea-houses provide basic blankets, but quality varies considerably. Above Manang and at Thorong High Camp, your own bag is a meaningful comfort upgrade. A 3-season bag is adequate for this route.
Sleeping bag liner — adds warmth and hygiene when using tea-house bedding.
Trekking daypack (20–30L) — carries your daily essentials on trail. The porter carries your main duffel bag.
Main duffel bag (50–70L, soft-sided) — for porter loading. Hard-framed luggage is impractical on mountain trails.
Headlamp + spare batteries — the 4:00 AM Thorong La departure and the pre-dawn Poon Hill hike both require a working headlamp. Cold drains batteries; use lithium cells for both pass days.
Insulated water bottle (1L) — for the pre-dawn Thorong La approach. Standard bottles freeze at High Camp if left uninsulated overnight. Store your water bottle inside your sleeping bag the night before the pass.
Power bank — electricity is available at most tea-houses but charging points are shared and unreliable above Manang. A power bank covers the gap.
Dry bag or waterproof pack cover — Nepal rain on the lower trail and Poon Hill section is possible in both spring and autumn.

Documents & Money

Passport — valid 6+ months beyond your travel date. Required for Nepal visa on arrival and for TIMS registration.
Nepal visa — available on arrival at Kathmandu airport. Bring USD cash and a passport photo.
Permit documentation — Summit Routes arranges ACAP and TIMS; carry copies throughout the trek for checkpoint verification.
Travel insurance documents — must cover high-altitude trekking above 5,500m and emergency helicopter evacuation. Verify this specifically with your insurer before travel. This is mandatory for participation.
Cash in Nepali Rupees — ATMs are available in Kathmandu and Pokhara, and at Besisahar and Chame on the approach. Above Chame there are no ATMs until Jomsom. Carry sufficient rupees for all personal expenses (hot showers, extra meals, snacks, tips) from Chame to Jomsom — approximately 10 days.

Optional but Useful

Camera with spare batteries — cold at High Camp and Thorong La drains batteries quickly. Keep spares in an inner pocket overnight.
High-energy trail snacks — energy bars, nuts, chocolate, electrolyte tablets. Tea-houses sell snacks but at high markup above Manang; bring your own supply from Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Lightweight down trousers — useful at Thorong High Camp evenings.
Small padlock for your duffel bag at city hotels.
Earplugs — tea-houses on the main Annapurna Circuit are busy in peak season; thin walls are standard.

For a complete Himalayan packing guide with brand recommendations and a printable checklist, see our Himalayan Trekking Gear List →

Not sure what to prioritise? Ask us when you book — we'll advise based on the season of your departure and your specific experience level.

Safety Protocols

Safety & Emergency Protocols — Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake

Your safety is the absolute priority on every Summit Routes trek. The Annapurna Circuit crosses Thorong La Pass at 5,416m and includes the Tilicho Lake detour at 4,919m — making this a genuine high-altitude trek with real altitude risks that demand proper management. Below is a full account of the safety protocols, emergency procedures, and standards maintained on every departure.

First Aid & Medical Equipment

Comprehensive first aid kit carried by the guide at all times throughout the trek
Pulse oximeter for daily blood-oxygen monitoring from Manang onward — readings are taken every morning and compared against baseline and previous days' values
Emergency supplemental oxygen available at Thorong High Camp and on pass day
Basic medications including Diamox, Dexamethasone, Nifedipine, analgesics, rehydration salts, and blister and wound care supplies
Daily health check-ins at every camp above 3,500m — appetite, sleep quality, headache, and blood-oxygen readings all assessed
Use of the Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) clinic in Manang (Day 5) — the only staffed altitude medical facility on the route, which provides a formal altitude awareness briefing and triage assessment

Evacuation Procedure

Below Thorong La (Manang and before):

Ground evacuation possible by vehicle from Chame and Besisahar downward, or by vehicle from Manang via the Manang–Besisahar road (accessible by 4WD)
Helicopter landing zones identified at Manang — the most common helicopter evacuation point on the circuit
Cases requiring hospital care directed to Gandaki Medical College, Pokhara or B&B Hospital, Kathmandu

Above Thorong La — Tilicho section and Thorong High Camp:

Helicopter evacuation is the primary route for serious medical cases from Thorong High Camp and the Tilicho Base Camp area — both locations have landing zones accessible to rescue helicopters
For less serious cases, assisted descent to Manang from High Camp is possible in 3–4 hours

Mustang Side (Muktinath, Jomsom):

Ground evacuation by vehicle from Jomsom via the Mustang road to Pokhara; Jomsom Airport available for urgent medical flights
The fastest route from Muktinath to hospital care is via Jomsom flight (20 minutes) followed by ground or air transfer from Pokhara

Guide Training & Certifications

All trekking guides are licensed by TAAN (Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal) and hold a valid government-issued trekking guide licence
Wilderness First Responder (WFR) or equivalent high-altitude medical first aid training
Minimum of three prior Annapurna Circuit completions — including Tilicho Lake and Thorong La — required for every lead guide
Guides assess individual trekker fitness at Manang (Day 5) before committing to the high-altitude schedule. Their assessment of readiness for the pass crossing is final.
Fluent English communication with clients; Nepali for coordination with local authorities and helicopter services

Travel Insurance — Mandatory Requirement

Valid travel insurance is a non-negotiable condition of participation on this trek.

Must cover high-altitude trekking to at least 5,500 metres
Must include emergency helicopter evacuation — helicopter rescue from the Thorong La / Manang area to Pokhara or Kathmandu is expensive and must be covered by insurance before Summit Routes activates the rescue
Must cover medical hospitalisation, emergency repatriation, and trip cancellation including weather-related flight delays
The insurance policy must be shared with Summit Routes before departure
Trekkers without valid insurance cannot join this trek — no exceptions

Not sure which policy covers Thorong La at 5,416m? See our Insurance & Permits FAQ.

Emergency Contact Protocol During the Trek

For Family / Next of Kin

A dedicated emergency contact number is provided to all clients before departure. Our Kathmandu coordinator monitors every active trek and will contact your nominated next-of-kin within 2 hours of any serious incident.

On the Trail

Mobile signal is available throughout most of the lower valley (Days 2–4) and at Manang, Muktinath, Jomsom, and Pokhara. Signal is intermittent or absent on the Tilicho detour trail and above Thorong Phedi. Our guides carry full mobile phone capability on the lower sections and are familiar with the specific points on the route where signal can be accessed above Manang.

Rescue Coordination

Summit Routes maintains coordination with TAAN Rescue, the Nepal Army Air Wing and private helicopter operators including Fishtail Air and Simrik Air, and the B&B Hospital Kathmandu — the primary referral centre for high-altitude medical emergencies in Nepal.

Thorong La Pass — Safety Management

The Thorong La crossing is the most significant safety event on the entire itinerary. Our guide team manages it as follows:

The pre-dawn departure at 4:00–4:30 AM is mandatory — starting after 6:00 AM significantly increases exposure to afternoon wind, cloud, and deteriorating snow conditions on the western descent
The guide assesses individual trekker fitness and blood-oxygen readings at High Camp the afternoon before the pass crossing — anyone showing significant AMS symptoms will not proceed to the pass until the guide is satisfied with their condition
If severe weather is forecast for the pass day, the team holds at High Camp — the weather window is typically best in the very early morning, and the guide will evaluate at 3:00–3:30 AM before the team departs
Snow and ice are possible on the Thorong La upper section from October onward — microspikes are carried on all autumn departures
The guide retains absolute authority to turn the team around — this decision cannot be overridden by any trekker

Altitude Sickness (AMS) — Our Policy

AMS is the most common medical issue on the Annapurna Circuit and a real risk above 3,500m on this itinerary. If you are unfamiliar with high-altitude trekking, read our complete altitude sickness guide before joining the trek.

Any trekker showing signs of High-Altitude Cerebral Oedema (HACE) or High-Altitude Pulmonary Oedema (HAPE) will be descended immediately. This decision is non-negotiable and cannot be overridden by the trekker.

The acclimatisation schedule built into this itinerary:

Day 1: Kathmandu — 1,400m
Day 2: Chame — 2,670m
Day 3: Upper Pisang — 3,300m
Day 4: Manang — 3,500m
Day 5: Manang full rest day + acclimatisation hike to Ice Lake (4,600m), return to 3,500m — this is the critical acclimatisation day
Day 6: Tilicho Base Camp — 4,150m
Day 7: Tilicho Lake (4,919m) — return to Manang (3,500m)
Day 8: Yak Kharka — 4,020m
Day 9: Thorong High Camp — 4,925m
Day 10: Thorong La (5,416m) — descend to Muktinath (3,760m)

The acclimatisation day at Manang is non-negotiable and cannot be shortened to recover lost time. Any trekker who is not recovering well at Manang will remain there for an additional day before the guide clears them to proceed.

Have a safety question before booking?
Contact our team on WhatsApp (+91 96222 44022) or email info@summitroutes.com. We are happy to discuss safety considerations in detail before you commit.

Gallery

FAQ

How difficult is Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake?

The trek is moderate to challenging. Daily distances are manageable (10–18km) but cumulative altitude gain over 18 days is significant. The two hardest days are the Tilicho Lake excursion (8–9 hours at high altitude) and the Thorong La crossing (pre-dawn start, 5,416m). Solid fitness and some prior hiking experience will see you through. No technical skills required. Prior Himalayan trekking experience is recommended but not essential — consistent aerobic fitness training in the 3–4 months before departure is more important than previous trek credentials.

When is the best time to do the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake?

October and November are the best months — clear skies, stable conditions, and Thorong La reliably snow-free. March to May is the second-best window with rhododendrons in bloom. Avoid June to September (monsoon) when trail conditions are poor and the pass can be blocked.

What permits are required and do you arrange them?

This trek requires an ACAP permit and a TIMS card. Both are arranged and included by Summit Routes — you do not need to apply for anything yourself. Our guides carry all documentation and manage permit checkpoints throughout the route.

What's included in the price?

Included: all transportation, tea-house and hotel accommodation, all meals on trek, ACAP and TIMS permits, English-speaking guide, porter support, Jomsom–Pokhara domestic flight, and the Manang HRA altitude briefing. Not included: international flights, Nepal visa, travel insurance, personal equipment, and guide and porter tips.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes, and it is mandatory. Your policy must specifically cover high-altitude trekking above 5,500m and helicopter evacuation — standard travel insurance often excludes both. We provide a coverage checklist on booking to help you verify before departure.

What is the maximum altitude reached on this trek?

The highest point is Thorong La Pass at 5,416m on Day 10. Tilicho Lake reaches 4,919m on Day 7. The itinerary includes two acclimatisation days before the high-altitude section — one full rest day in Manang and the gentler Tilicho Base Camp approach day — specifically designed to prepare you for the pass crossing.

What happens if I develop altitude sickness?

Our guides are trained in AMS recognition, carry pulse oximeters, and take daily readings from Day 4 onwards. If symptoms do not resolve with rest, descent is non-negotiable. Helicopter evacuation can be arranged from Manang or Jomsom — which is why insurance covering helicopter evacuation is mandatory on this trek.

Can the Tilicho Lake detour be skipped?

Yes, but we strongly recommend against it. Tilicho Lake is the defining feature of this itinerary and also serves a practical purpose — the altitude exposure on Days 6 and 7 meaningfully improves your acclimatisation before Thorong La. If your schedule is tight, speak to us — we can usually adjust the Kathmandu or Pokhara days instead.

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📅 2026 Departures — Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake (18 Days)

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Oct 05 – Oct 22 Oct 20 – Nov 06

Arrive & Depart: Kathmandu (KTM), Nepal

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Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek — Overview

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Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake (18 Days)

Arrive & Depart: Kathmandu (KTM), Nepal

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