Trip Highlighted
‘Adventure around North of Annapurna Himalaya to the pristine emerald Lake of Tilicho’
Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho leads you through the high and scenic Manang Valley and towards the pristine and picturesque emerald lake of Tilicho.
This package provides a great combination of the adventurous journey to Tilicho Lake along with the classic Annapurna Circuit trail. Our walk leads to the northern side of Annapurna Himalaya as we cross the high pass of Thorong-La above 5,416 m which separates Manang Valley and Mustang areas.
The area around Tilicho Lake is particularly beautiful, surrounded by Gangapurna and Tilicho Peaks and isolated away from main Annapurna Circuit trails. Trekkers seldom visit this beautiful and peaceful surrounding, but those that do are in for a treat.
The 20 Day Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho journey starts with an exciting overland drive to reach at Lamjung. From the warmer low valleys of Marsyangdi River, our walk begins heading into cooler alpine temperature zone. We will trek through the high hills full of nice farm villages of Jagat, Dharapani and to Chame, the headquarter town of Mustang district.
Walking into deep alpine woodland of tall rhododendron-oaks-pines-spruce-hemlocks and pines trees, which soon fades to smaller bushes and shrubs, we will enter the arid and barren country of Manang valley surrounded with high snowcapped peaks of Chulu, Pisang, Annapurna IV – II -III and Gangapurna.
Exploring the traditional villages around Manang provides a great chance to experience the fascinating Buddhist culture and religion of the locals. The old monastery at Braga is the icing on the cake to this experience. After exploring Braga, we will finally head to one of our main destinations, Tilicho Lake.
At Tilicho Lake, you will have ample time to marvel at the great beauty of landscapes and scenery. Tilicho (4,919m) is one of the highest freshwater lakes in Nepal, surrounded by various peaks including Khangsar, Muktinath Nilgiri and Tilicho. Walking towards the end of our journey, we will cross the high and scenic Thorong-La Pass to enter Mustang areas at Muktinath, a holy spot for Hindu and Buddhist also.
From here our last leg of the trek completes in Jomsom, headquarter and administrative town of Mustang region. Jomsom is mostly inhabited by Thakali tribes with strong old trade relation with Tibet on this ancient Salt Trade and Caravan route of Nepal and Tibet.
A scenic short flight from Jomsom brings you at Pokhara, situated on a beautiful valley with views of Annapurna and Machhapuchhare Himal ‘Fish Tail’ and calm huge lakes of Begnas and Phewa.
Our adventurous and magnificent journey completes upon taking a drive back to Kathmandu with endless memories of Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho.
Tilicho Lake & Semi Annapurna Circuit Trekking is a strenuous grade trek that explores a variety of terrain, biodiversity and altitudes around Annapurna. Most of the trail is located between 3000m – 4000m with the peak altitude being at 5,416m (Thorong La Pass). Also, you will mostly trek through hilly and semi rocky terrain for an average of 5-6 hours per day. As such, good physical fitness / stamina and proper acclimatization is a necessity for this trek. As long as you are fit and healthy, the trek can be performed by anyone regardless of trekking experience.
As with most treks in Nepal, Tilicho Lake & Semi Annapurna Circuit Trekking is best performed during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. Because of the generally stable weather, moderate temperature and clear views, you will most likely have the best experience during these periods. Winter trekking is also possible if you don’t mind the low temperatures and want to enjoy the extra snow at higher altitudes. Monsoon, however, is generally not a good time as the weather becomes quite unstable and the occasional downpour can compromise both the safety and enjoyability of your journey.
Starting wonderful Tilicho Lake & Semi Annapurna Circuit Trekking adventure with an interesting overland drive towards Nepal mid west, leading to Besisar town (headquarter of Lamjung district). From here transfer to another vehicle and continue drive on dirt road passing villages of Khudi, Bulbule and Ngadi following the Marsyangdi River upstream.
Drive continues through rice terraces fields and villages to Syange a small village for overnight stop in the comfort of nice lodge.
From Syange our first day trek begins, starting on winding path to Jagat and Chamje village following Marsyangdi River and within forested area with super views of Annapurna and Manaslu range.
Walk continues reaching at Tal village located on a nice valley, after Tal few hours walk to Dharapani village for overnight stop.
Dharapani a nice village with Buddhist culture, situated on the junction of Annapurna circuit and Manaslu trekking trail.
Start the morning walk a into cool rhododendron and pine forest passing villages of Bagachap and Danque, then to Timang village from here onwards into more Buddhist area, with super view of Mt. Manaslu 8,163m / 26,781ft, from this village few hours trek leads to a large town at Chame for overnight stop, a major town and headquarter of Manang district.
From here air gets cooler as the walk leads closer into mountains through beautiful forest of rhododendron and pine trees, following Marshyangdi River upstream to Bhratang village.
From this village an uphill into pine trees to Dhukure Pokhari a small place with few lodge and views of Chulu and Pisang peak, after a lunch stop walk downhill to Pisang village for overnight stop.
Pisang village located within Manang valley with stunning mountains views as altitude gains for here onwards.
Walking into forest with short uphill with views of Annapurna II and III, Gangapurna Chulu and Pisang peak, then reaching Hongde village with a small air strip, from here tree lines fades to barren, arid landscapes.
On route Manang village visit old Braga monastery with Buddhist relics, ancient wall painting, frescos and super panorama of Annapurna Himalaya, from here an hour walk to Manang village.
The houses here are of traditional Tibetan style with culture and traditions.
An important rest day for acclimatization before reaching high altitude and up to Thorang –la, here with short hike exploring Manang village beneath towering Annapurna and Gangapurna peaks, a nice short hike up for views of Gangapurna Glacier and the Manang glacial Lake.
After Manang village morning walk leads to another highlight of the adventure, as our route leads away from main Annapurna circuit trail to reach last and remote village of Manang at Khangsar for overnight stops.
From here onwards around dry and arid country, morning walk on downhill for some time, then uphill to reach Tilicho Lake for overnight stop.
Tilicho Lake a holy spot for both Hindu's and Buddhist religions, offering wonderful views of snowcapped peaks in the comfort of nice lodge by the bank of beautiful Tilicho Lake.
Free day to enjoy beautiful setting of Tilicho Lake considered as one of the highest lake around Himalaya, and probably in the world, fed from massive glaciers of Gangapurna and Tilicho peaks.
An amazing place to be on rest day where one can take a walk around on least explored trails with grand views of high peaks that circles Tilicho Lake.
After a pleasant and marvelous time in Tilicho Lake with superb views, return journey leads back Khangsar for last overnight before joining main Annapurna Circuit Trekking route on the way to Jomsom via Thorang-La.
After a wonderful time around Tilicho Lake within its tranquil wilderness, morning walk to Yak Kharka, an interesting high altitude walk with views of mountains, crossing small streams to reach at Yak Kharka, a small settlement with incredible views of Gangapurna, Annapurna III and Chulu Peaks.
Morning walk leads closer to Thorang-la as the walk progress crossing a bridge and then a climb along the Jarjung River, then leading at Thorang Phedi for short rest and then climb the last hour uphill to Thorang High Camp for overnight stop.
Start the early morning walk on this Big Day! A thrill and highlight of this great adventure, after breakfast a long climb up to Thorang-la with steep haul to reach at 5,416 m / 17, 872 ft top of Thorang-la decorated with Buddhist colorful prayer flags.
Highest point of the adventure offers superb vista of beautiful landscapes and snowcapped peaks, from here a long descend to Muktinath at 3,800 m high.
Muktinath a holy place for both Hindu and Buddhist the word Muktinath literally means ‘the place for Nirvana or Liberation’.
After Muktinath, rest of the journey is easier with moderate walks all the way with a big drop of 1,200m downhill to Kaligandaki river valley, this pleasant walk leads to Kaligandaki river valley, from here walk to Jomsom for last overnight stop of this marvelous adventure.
Jomsom headquarter town of Mustang area with a small airstrip above Kaligandaki River and main place of local Thakali tribes the native of Kaligandaki areas interwoven with Buddhism religion.
Early morning transfer to Jomsom airport where the flight times are before 10 a.m. (due to heavy winds that exists on afternoon).
Boarding into a small aircraft either Twin Otter or Dornier then taking off for Pokhara with sweeping panorama of Dhaulagiri-Nilgiris and Annapurna range of mountains.
On reaching Pokhara transfer to respective hotels for overnight stop by the Lake Phewa.
Pokhara, a popular touristic city, where the peaks of Annapurna Mountain range reflects on its beautiful serene lakes of Phewa and Begnas.
Morning a drive to Kathmandu after a wonderful experience on Tilicho Lake & Semi Annapurna Circuit trekking, on reaching Kathmandu transfer to your hotels with afternoon free at leisure for individual activities and shopping.
(Flying options 30 minutes of scenic flight to Kathmandu from Pokhara)
The Tilicho Lake & Semi Annapurna Circuit trek is considered strenuous and requires a good level of physical fitness. It involves a lot of uphill and downhill hiking at high altitudes and can be challenging for those who are not used to strenuous activity. It is important to be well-prepared with the right equipment and clothing.
The best time to go for Tilicho Lake & Semi Annapurna Circuit trek is during the months of September to November and March to May, when the weather is clear and the views are the best.
The duration of the Tilicho Lake & Semi Annapurna Circuit trek varies depending on the route and pace of the trekker, but typically it takes around 12-21 days.
The Tilicho Lake & Semi Annapurna Circuit Trek is a trek that takes you to the base camp of Tilicho Peak, one of the highest lakes in the world and the famous Annapurna Circuit trek. The trek offers a chance to explore remote landscapes, traditional villages, and the best views of the Annapurna region.
During the Tilicho Lake & Semi Annapurna Circuit trek, accommodation is available in the form of teahouses or lodges. The teahouses are basic but provide a comfortable place to sleep, hot meals, and basic facilities such as toilets and showers.
When packing for the Tilicho Lake & Semi Annapurna Circuit trek, it's important to have the right equipment and clothing, including proper hiking boots, warm clothing, a good backpack, sleeping bag, and a good quality down jacket. Additionally, you should pack a first aid kit, personal hygiene items, and a water purification system.
While it is possible to complete the Tilicho Lake & Semi Annapurna Circuit trek independently, hiring a guide or porter can make the trek more enjoyable and less strenuous. Guides and porters can provide valuable information about the local culture, history, and environment, and can also help to ensure your safety on the trek.
There are no official restrictions on photography during the Tilicho Lake & Semi Annapurna Circuit Trek, but it is important to be respectful of the local culture and customs, particularly when visiting cultural and religious sites. It's also important to be mindful of the environment and avoid disturbing wildlife and plants.
Electrical outlets and charging facilities can be limited during the Tilicho Lake & Semi Annapurna Circuit Trek. While some teahouses may have limited electricity, it is recommended to bring a portable solar charger or power bank to ensure that your devices are charged throughout the trek.
It is recommended to consult with your doctor or a travel clinic before embarking on the Tilicho Lake & Semi Annapurna Circuit Trek. Some recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A, Tetanus, and Diphtheria. It's also recommended to take preventive measures against altitude sickness, such as taking Acetazolamide and consulting with a doctor before the trek.
Yes, a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) are required for the Tilicho Lake & Semi Annapurna Circuit Trek. The TIMS card can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board or a registered trekking agency, and the ACAP can be obtained from the Annapurna Conservation Area Project office.
The availability of credit card facilities during the Tilicho Lake & Semi Annapurna Circuit Trek is limited. It's recommended to carry enough Nepalese rupees in cash to cover expenses during the trek, as well as for emergencies. It's also important to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with your credit card being blocked.
Yes, it is possible to buy or rent trekking gear in Kathmandu before embarking on the Tilicho Lake & Semi Annapurna Circuit Trek. There are many outdoor gear shops and rental shops in Kathmandu that offer a wide range of equipment, from hiking boots and backpacks to sleeping bags and down jackets. It's important to note that the prices may be higher than in other parts of the world, so it's recommended to shop around for the best deals.
Altitude sickness can be a concern during the Tilicho Lake & Semi Annapurna Circuit Trek as the trek reaches high altitudes. It is important to acclimatize properly and to be mindful of the symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea, and fatigue. If you experience symptoms, it's important to stop ascending and rest, or to descend if necessary. Drinking plenty of water, taking Acetazolamide and consulting with a doctor can also help prevent altitude sickness.
It is important to be aware of the rules and regulations regarding litter during the Tilicho Lake & Semi Annapurna Circuit Trek. Littering not only harms the environment but also harms the local communities and wildlife that depend on it. It's recommended to carry all trash with you until you reach a proper waste disposal point, and to use eco-friendly and biodegradable products as much as possible. It's also important to be mindful of local regulations regarding the disposal of human waste, and to use designated toilet facilities or bury human waste in designated areas.
Communication can be limited during the Tilicho Lake & Semi Annapurna Circuit Trek as the trek passes through remote areas with limited or no cellular coverage. It's recommended to bring a satellite phone or a personal locator beacon for emergency use. In some areas, teahouses may have Wi-Fi or internet access, but the connection may be limited or unreliable. It's also a good idea to inform your family and friends of your trekking itinerary and estimated return date so that they can contact you in case of emergency.
The use of drones is prohibited in the Annapurna Conservation Area, which includes the Tilicho Lake & Semi Annapurna Circuit Trek. It's also important to respect the privacy and culture of local communities and not to disturb wildlife.
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