A new version of the classic Annapurna circuit trek. Classic Annapurna circuit trek consists of a long duration of walking and exploring the areas of Manang and Mustang of Nepal. Trekkers can visit the Annapurna circuit either for a short or a long period. The difficulty level of the Annapurna circuit Tilicho Lake trek is moderate and can be done by people having a basic fitness level. Similarly, this trek is suitable for beginners who have some short hiking experience as it is a difficult trek. The road facilities are present there recently and reach the Manang village. Because of that, the total distance of the Annapurna circuit trek varies from 160-300 kilometers. Most of the trekkers start the trek from Dharapani while some drive to the Manang village of Nepal and start the trek from there. Basic accommodation facilities can be seen throughout the trekking trail. Annapurna circuit trek is best when Tilicho Lake is included in the itinerary.
Another prominent place in this region is Tilicho lake. Tilicho lake lies at an altitude of 4,919 meters. So, it is also popular as the lake is situated at the highest elevations. It lies in the Manang district. One can enjoy the panoramic views of various mountains like Khangsar, Nilgiri, Muktinath Peak, etc. But before reaching Tilicho Lake from Mang village you will need to pass the landslide area and spend a night at Tilicho Base Camp. Meanwhile, the altitude of the Tilicho base camp is 4,200 meters above sea level. Spending a night at such a high altitude may be difficult for beginners to adapt to. Because of that, we have an outlet for the day-to-day detailed itineraries of the Annapurna circuit Tilicho lake trek. This helps in gradually gaining altitude and minimizes the chances of having altitude sickness.
Spring (March-May) and Autumn (Oct-Nov/Mid-Dec) are the best seasons to traverse this area. During this period of the year, the weather is clear and comfortable for trekking in Nepal. Because of that, amazing views of the mountain ranges and landscapes can be seen. The weather is clear and the sky-piercing mountains can be seen throughout your journey toward the Himalayan kingdom of Nepal. The months of March, April, October, and November are the best time to explore Thorong La Pass which is one of the toughest passes. During the other months of the year, there is a chance of an avalanche in this region. The trekkers also start their trek early from Thorong Phedi and view the sunrise from Thorong la pass. After a few hours of sunrise, the strong winds begin in Thorong La Pass.
Annapurna Circuit - A classic trekking route.
The entire area is ornamented by a rich tapestry of natural and cultural history on all sides. To a large extent, the culture and traditions are dominated by Tibetan Buddhism which is easily visible throughout the trek. The Gurung tribes make up the majority. During this hike, you will see a variety of views of mountains ranging in height from 6,000 to 8,000 meters. Manaslu, Langtang, Annapurna I, II, III and IV, Gangapurna, Nilgiri, etc. The regions provide a wide range of landscapes for you to explore, from lush paddy fields and subtropical forests to steep alpine slopes and deep gorges, all the way up to the dry plateau of Tibet. The adventure begins in the middle of the hills, and continues until it reaches the Thorong La pass, which is the highest point of this trek, and then concludes with a descent back to Pokhara. In addition, the hike offers a stunning vantage point of the surrounding rough landscape. It is recommended that travelers trek rather than drive from Bhulbhule to Manang village. The settlement of Manang is located at an elevation that is 3,540 meters higher above the surrounding sea level. The risk of developing symptoms of altitude sickness is significantly increased when rapid ascent to a high altitude is undertaken. In the meantime, the Annapurna Circuit Yoga Trek is also an option for those who want to experience a spiritual journey while exploring the untamed nature of Nepal.
Also, The old classic trek used to be walking up to three weeks around four different regions, two in lower elevations with the country’s dominant lush green subtropical valleys. And two in high elevation. The upper regions of the trek are cold throughout the year. Proper trekking gear is needed. We are here to guide you about what to pack for the Annapurna circuit Tilicho lake trek. The new Annapurna circuit trek mostly goes on the trails of these higher altitude regions viz. Manang and Mustang. They are at a higher elevation. Manaslu, Langtang, Annapurna I, II, III and IV, Gangapurna, Chulu east & west, Dhaulagiri, Tukuche peak, and Nilgiri are dominant peaks scattered in this region. Annapurna circuit with Tilicho lake trek offers wonderful experiences with the pristine and wonderful beauty of the Himalayan region.
Thorong La Pass - One of the highest passes in Nepal.
Thorong la Pass, at 5,416 meters above sea level, is the highest point on the Annapurna circuit hike. This mountain pass links Nepal's Manang and Mustang regions. Due to the region's notoriously fickle climate and biting winds, exploration is nearly impossible. Crossing the pass from Thorong High Camp requires an early morning start, between 4:00 and 5:00 a.m., to beat the wind.
The highest point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is Thorong La Pass and is one of the high passes in Nepal. The difficulty is compounded by the fact that the oxygen level is low and the steep trail could be a challenge. In order to prevent altitude sickness, it is crucial to focus on acclimatization and to drink plenty of water. From Thorong Phedi, you'll need to climb 600 meters in altitude to reach Thorong La Pass. While doing so, you'll drop roughly 1,800 meters, bringing you to Muktinath.
Tilicho Lake - The world’s highest-altitude lake.
Situated at an altitude of 4,919 meters above sea level, Tilicho Lake is the world's highest-altitude lake. Similarly, some people also state that Tilicho lake is situated at an altitude of 4,959 meters above sea level. Meanwhile, according to the Nepali Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, there are no aquatic organisms like fish or anything else in Tilicho lake. The research was done in 2003 and since then no aquatic organism has been found in Tilicho lake. During the time of winter, the lakes freeze, meanwhile, during other seasons of the year it attracts tourists with its deep blue crystal clear water.
Tilicho lake is one of the holy lakes of the Hindus. It is believed that the real name of Tilicho lake is Kak Bhusundi lake which was mentioned in the Ramayana. The King of the bird Garuda was told about the happening of the Ramayana by the sage Kak Bhusundi near the Tilicho Lake. Because of this, it is seen as a holy lake by the Hindus. The trail to Tilicho lake from Manang passes through the landslide area.
Tilicho Base Camp - Base of the great Tilicho Lake.
From Manang the difficulty level to reach Tilicho lake is moderate. Meanwhile, the landslide area is the most dangerous part of the trek. The surface area of Tilicho lake is 4.8 square km. Similarly, the maximum length of Tilicho lake is 4 km and the maximum width is 1.2 km. Meanwhile, the average depth of the lake is 85 meters. The lake is surrounded by different mountains which include Khangsar, Muktinath peak, Nilgiri, and Tilicho.
About Annapurna Circuit With Tilicho Lake Trek
The journey starts from Dharapani via Besi Sahar. The further drive from Besi Sahar leads you to Ngadi, Jagat, and Chame which are small settlements on the way to a great trekking route. The trek starts with a 7-9 hours long drive from Kathmandu through a well-paved road to a few off-road experiences. The trek starts from Chame and continues up to Manang, Tilicho lake, and Thorong La (the highest point on the trek and one of the highest passes of Nepal). Then after, the trekking en route through Mustang. Thorong La separates the districts Manang and Mustang. You’ll certainly find a completely different landscape after crossing Thorong La. You will start your trek from Dharapani, which has a lush green forest and slowly move uphill to the mountain desert and high pass in the restricted area.
During the trek, you will come across small hamlets, preserved cultures, and traditions vast from other places as it is isolated from the outer world. The landscapes are unseemlily changed during the trek and suddenly you will realize a unique landscape far from the concrete jungle surrounded by mountains and crisp fresh air. Annapurna Circuit Tilicho lake trek is the most challenging trekking area in Nepal. So, a Physically fit and Strongly determined person can do this trek. The most difficult section is from Thorong Phedi to Thorong la Pass (around 45 minutes). Also, The whole region falls under the restricted area. So, Trekkers must need Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) to explore this region.
Starting from Kathmandu your trek comes to an end at Muktinath, Jomsom. Well, not precisely the end but the walking phase is over at this point. You will enjoy a scenic flight to Pokhara and back to Kathmandu. You will get enough time to relax and explore the city of lakes - Pokhara during your leisure stay. After soaking in the peace catch a flight back to Kathmandu and end your trek with fun activities such as shopping, a local food hunt, and relaxation.
If our trip itinerary doesn’t suit your holiday schedule or you wish to modify the itinerary or combine it with any travel plans, then please let us know and we’ll be happy to create a tailor-made itinerary, designed especially for you. Also whether you are a student group/family group /corporate team please inquire with us. We offer you a variety of packages.