Annapurna Circuit, Tilicho Lake & Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Circuit, Tilicho Lake & Annapurna Base Camp Trek

22-Day Annapurna Circuit, Tilicho Lake, Thorong La & Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Overview

The 22-Day Annapurna Circuit, Tilicho Lake, Thorong La & Annapurna Base Camp Trek is an extraordinary Himalayan adventure designed for travelers who want to experience the remarkable diversity of Nepal in one unforgettable journey.

This private guided trek combines the legendary Annapurna Circuit with a visit to Tilicho Lake, the spectacular crossing of Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters, the culturally rich landscapes of Manang and Mustang, the Kali Gandaki Valley, Tatopani, Ghorepani and Poon Hill, and the breathtaking Annapurna Base Camp at approximately 4,130 meters.

The journey begins in Kathmandu and gradually follows the Marsyangdi River toward the high mountain landscapes of Manang. After proper acclimatization in Manang, the trail leads toward Tilicho Lake, surrounded by dramatic Himalayan scenery. From the Tilicho region, the route continues toward Yak Kharka and Thorong Phedi, before crossing the magnificent Thorong La Pass and descending into the sacred Muktinath area of Mustang.

From Muktinath, the adventure continues through Jomsom and Tatopani, followed by a beautiful trek through traditional mountain villages and rhododendron forests toward Ghorepani and Poon Hill. The final stage takes you into the Annapurna Sanctuary, passing through Chhomrong, Bamboo, Deurali and Machhapuchhre Base Camp before reaching the spectacular Annapurna Base Camp.

With dramatic changes in altitude, climate, landscape, culture and vegetation, this trek offers an exceptional opportunity to experience the many faces of the Annapurna region in a single journey.

This is a private guided trekking experience, providing a dedicated professional trekking guide, carefully arranged accommodation and transportation, trekking permits, meals and essential trekking support throughout the journey.


Trek Highlights

  • 22 days of immersive Himalayan adventure through some of Nepal's most spectacular trekking landscapes.

  • Explore the legendary Annapurna Circuit, one of Nepal's classic long-distance trekking routes.

  • Visit magnificent Tilicho Lake at approximately 4,919 meters.

  • Cross the challenging and spectacular Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters.

  • Experience the dramatic contrast between the green valleys of Manang and the arid mountain landscapes of Mustang.

  • Discover the traditional Himalayan communities and landscapes of Manang, Muktinath and Lower Mustang.

  • Travel through the spectacular Kali Gandaki Valley toward Jomsom and Tatopani.

  • Enjoy sunrise and panoramic Himalayan views from Poon Hill at approximately 3,210 meters.

  • Trek through beautiful rhododendron and mountain forests toward the Annapurna Sanctuary.

  • Experience the magnificent mountain amphitheater surrounding Annapurna Base Camp at approximately 4,130 meters.

  • Enjoy breathtaking views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Gangapurna and other Himalayan peaks.

  • Experience dramatic changes in landscape, climate, vegetation, altitude and local culture throughout one remarkable journey.

  • Benefit from a private trekking guide and personalized support rather than traveling in a large group.

  • Includes a carefully planned acclimatization day in Manang before the highest sections of the trek.

  • Combine trekking and scenic mountain transportation to experience more of the Annapurna region within 22 days.

  • Complete the journey with a comfortable return to Pokhara and Kathmandu.


Why Choose This Trek?

For travelers looking for more than a single trekking destination, this itinerary brings together some of the most remarkable experiences in the Annapurna region.

From high-altitude lakes and dramatic mountain passes to sacred pilgrimage sites, traditional villages, lush forests and spectacular Himalayan viewpoints, every stage of the journey offers something different.

The combination of Annapurna Circuit + Tilicho Lake + Thorong La + Poon Hill + Annapurna Base Camp makes this a particularly diverse Himalayan adventure, offering an unforgettable introduction to the natural and cultural richness of Nepal.

The trek is operated as a private guided journey, allowing the itinerary to be managed with greater flexibility according to weather, trail conditions, walking pace and the needs of the traveler.


A Journey Through the Heart of the Annapurna Region

The route takes you through an extraordinary succession of Himalayan environments—from lower mountain valleys and subtropical landscapes to alpine terrain above 4,000 meters, followed by the dry landscapes of Mustang and the lush forests of the Annapurna Sanctuary.

Every section brings a different perspective of Nepal, making this more than simply a trek to a single destination. It is a complete Himalayan journey combining adventure, nature, mountain culture, spirituality and unforgettable scenery.

The detailed day-by-day itinerary follows below.

 

DETAILED 22-DAY ITINERARY

Day 1: Kathmandu → Besisahar

Elevation: Kathmandu 1,400 m / Besisahar approximately 760 m
Transportation: Tourist bus
Duration: Approximately 6–8 hours

After breakfast, we leave Kathmandu by tourist bus and travel west through scenic hills, rivers, terraced farmland, and local villages toward Besisahar.

Overnight at a comfortable teahouse/lodge in Besisahar.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner


Day 2: Besisahar → Dharapani

Elevation: Dharapani 1,860 m
Transportation: Jeep
Duration: Approximately 4–5 hours

After breakfast, we take a local/private jeep toward Dharapani, following the Marsyangdi River through beautiful mountain landscapes.

As we travel deeper into the Annapurna region, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic.

Overnight in Dharapani.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner


Day 3: Dharapani → Chame

Elevation: Chame 2,670 m
Walking: Approximately 5–6 hours

Our trekking journey officially begins.

The trail passes through pine and fir forests, traditional villages, waterfalls and spectacular mountain scenery. We gradually gain altitude as we approach Chame, the administrative center of Manang District.

Overnight in Chame.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner


Day 4: Chame → Pisang

Elevation: Pisang approximately 3,200 m
Walking: Approximately 5–6 hours

We continue through beautiful pine forests and narrow mountain valleys toward Pisang.

The scenery becomes increasingly alpine, with impressive views of Annapurna II, Pisang Peak and surrounding mountains.

Overnight in Pisang.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner


Day 5: Pisang → Manang

Elevation: Manang 3,540 m
Walking: Approximately 5–7 hours

Today we continue toward Manang, one of the most famous settlements on the Annapurna Circuit.

Depending on trail conditions and the group's pace, we can take the scenic higher route through the traditional villages of Upper Pisang, Ghyaru and Ngawal for magnificent mountain views.

Overnight in Manang.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner


Day 6: Acclimatization Day in Manang

Elevation: Manang 3,540 m

Today is an important acclimatization day before continuing toward the higher elevations.

We will take a short hike around Manang and its surrounding hills, allowing the body to adjust gradually to the altitude while enjoying spectacular views of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Gangapurna and the surrounding peaks.

The remainder of the day is available for rest and exploring the beautiful village of Manang.

Overnight in Manang.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner


Day 7: Manang → Tilicho Base Camp

Elevation: Tilicho Base Camp approximately 4,150 m
Walking: Approximately 6–7 hours

We leave the main Annapurna Circuit and follow the trail toward the spectacular Tilicho Lake area.

The trail passes through Khangsar and Shree Kharka before continuing toward Tilicho Base Camp.

The landscape becomes increasingly rugged and alpine, with dramatic mountain views throughout the journey.

Overnight at Tilicho Base Camp.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner


Day 8: Tilicho Base Camp → Tilicho Lake → Shree Kharka

Maximum Elevation: Tilicho Lake 4,919 m
Walking: Approximately 7–9 hours

We start early in the morning for the challenging but spectacular hike to Tilicho Lake, one of the world's highest lakes at approximately 4,919 m.

After spending time enjoying the magnificent surroundings and mountain scenery, we descend from the lake and continue toward Shree Kharka.

This is a demanding high-altitude trekking day, so we maintain a careful pace with our guide.

Overnight at Shree Kharka.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner


Day 9: Shree Kharka → Yak Kharka

Elevation: Yak Kharka approximately 4,050 m
Walking: Approximately 5–6 hours

We continue from Shree Kharka toward Yak Kharka, without returning to Manang.

The trail reconnects with the main Annapurna Circuit route as we approach Yak Kharka.

The landscape is now distinctly high alpine, with barren hillsides, dramatic cliffs and expansive mountain views.

Overnight in Yak Kharka.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner


Day 10: Yak Kharka → Thorong Phedi

Elevation: Thorong Phedi approximately 4,450–4,540 m
Walking: Approximately 4–5 hours

Today we continue toward the foot of Thorong La Pass.

The trail passes through Ledar and follows the Marsyangdi valley before reaching Thorong Phedi.

We take time to rest and prepare for the following day's major crossing of Thorong La.

Overnight at Thorong Phedi.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner


Day 11: Thorong Phedi → Thorong La Pass → Muktinath

Maximum Elevation: Thorong La 5,416 m
Walking: Approximately 8–10 hours

This is one of the most memorable days of the entire trek.

We begin early in the morning and gradually ascend toward Thorong La Pass at 5,416 m, one of the highest trekking passes in the world.

After reaching the pass, we descend toward the sacred pilgrimage town of Muktinath on the Mustang side of the Himalayas.

The landscape changes dramatically from the green valleys of Manang to the dry, rugged terrain of Mustang.

Overnight in Muktinath.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner


Day 12: Muktinath → Jomsom

Elevation: Jomsom approximately 2,720 m
Walking: Approximately 5–6 hours

After breakfast, we continue toward Jomsom through the dramatic Kali Gandaki Valley.

Along the way, we experience the distinctive landscape and culture of Lower Mustang.

Jomsom is an important town and transportation center in the region.

Overnight in Jomsom.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner


Day 13: Jomsom → Tatopani

Elevation: Tatopani approximately 1,190 m
Transportation: Bus
Duration: Approximately 5–7 hours

Today we travel by road from Jomsom toward Tatopani.

The journey follows the Kali Gandaki Valley through dramatic mountain scenery, traditional villages and changing landscapes.

Tatopani is well known for its natural hot springs.

Overnight in Tatopani.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner


Day 14: Tatopani → Shikha

Elevation: Shikha approximately 1,935 m
Walking: Approximately 4–5 hours

We resume trekking and gradually climb through forests, farmland and traditional Magar villages.

The trail provides a beautiful transition from the lower Kali Gandaki Valley toward the famous Ghorepani and Poon Hill area.

Overnight in Shikha.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner


Day 15: Shikha → Ghorepani

Elevation: Ghorepani approximately 2,860 m
Walking: Approximately 4–5 hours

Today we continue climbing through beautiful rhododendron and mountain forests toward Ghorepani.

Ghorepani is one of the most popular villages on the Annapurna trekking routes and offers excellent mountain scenery.

Overnight in Ghorepani.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner


Day 16: Ghorepani → Poon Hill → Tadapani

Maximum Elevation: Poon Hill approximately 3,210 m
Walking: Approximately 6–7 hours

We wake early and hike to Poon Hill for sunrise.

From the viewpoint, we can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, including some of the most famous peaks of the region.

After returning to Ghorepani for breakfast, we continue through beautiful forests toward Tadapani.

Overnight in Tadapani.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner


Day 17: Tadapani → Chhomrong

Elevation: Chhomrong approximately 2,170 m
Walking: Approximately 5–6 hours

We continue toward Chhomrong through beautiful forested hills and traditional Gurung villages.

Chhomrong is an important gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary and provides wonderful views of Machhapuchhre and the surrounding peaks.

Overnight in Chhomrong.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner


Day 18: Chhomrong →Dovan

Elevation: Bamboo approximately 2,505 m
Walking: Approximately 5–6 hours

We descend through the Modi Khola valley and continue through dense forests toward Sinuwa and Bamboo then to Dovan.

The trail is surrounded by lush vegetation and impressive mountain scenery.

Overnight in Dovan.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner


Day 19: Bamboo → Deurali → Machhapuchhre Base Camp → Annapurna Base Camp

Maximum Elevation: Annapurna Base Camp approximately 4,130 m
Walking: Approximately 7–9 hours

Today we enter the heart of the Annapurna Sanctuary.

We continue through Dovan and Deurali before reaching Machhapuchhre Base Camp.

From there, the trail continues toward Annapurna Base Camp, surrounded by an extraordinary amphitheater of Himalayan peaks.

We spend the night at Annapurna Base Camp, allowing us to experience the spectacular mountain environment at sunset and sunrise.

Overnight at Annapurna Base Camp.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner


Day 20: Annapurna Base Camp → Bamboo

Elevation: Bamboo approximately 2,310 m
Walking: Approximately 6–7 hours

We wake early to enjoy the magnificent morning mountain views from Annapurna Base Camp.

After breakfast, we begin our descent through the Annapurna Sanctuary and retrace the trail toward Bamboo.

The descent provides a completely different perspective of the landscapes we experienced on the way up.

Overnight in Bamboo.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner


Day 21: Bamboo → Jhinu Danda → Pokhara

Walking: Approximately 5–6 hours to Jhinu Danda
Transportation: Private Jeep to Pokhara

We continue descending through the forest toward Jhinu Danda.

After reaching Jhinu Danda, we take a private jeep to Pokhara.

After arriving in Pokhara, the remainder of the day is available for relaxation.

Overnight in Pokhara.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch


Day 22: Pokhara → Kathmandu

Transportation: Tourist Bus
Duration: Approximately 6–8 hours

After breakfast, we take a tourist bus from Pokhara back to Kathmandu.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, our 22-day private Himalayan trekking adventure comes to an end.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

USD 2,050 PER PERSON

This package is based on a private guided trekking experience with a dedicated private trekking guide, providing personalized service, comfortable arrangements, and professional support throughout the journey.

This carefully designed itinerary combines the Annapurna Circuit, Tilicho Lake, Thorong La Pass, Mustang, Jomsom, Tatopani, Ghorepani, Poon Hill, and Annapurna Base Camp into one extended Himalayan adventure.

The journey offers a remarkable variety of landscapes, from subtropical valleys and traditional mountain villages to the high-altitude desert of Manang and Mustang, the turquoise waters of Tilicho Lake, the dramatic crossing of Thorong La Pass at 5,416 m, and the spectacular mountain sanctuary of Annapurna Base Camp at approximately 4,130 m.

 


PACKAGE INCLUDES

  1. Experienced, professional and English-speaking private trekking guide throughout the trek.
  2. Guide's salary, meals, accommodation, insurance and transportation.
  3. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
  4. TIMS / required trekking registration.
  5. Poon Hill viewpoint/entry fee, where applicable.
  6. Tourist bus transportation from Kathmandu to Besisahar.
  7. Jeep transportation from Besisahar to Dharapani.
  8. Bus transportation from Jomsom to Tatopani.
  9. Private jeep transportation from Jhinu Danda to Pokhara.
  10. Tourist bus transportation from Pokhara to Kathmandu.
  11. Taxi from your hotel in Pokhara to the tourist bus park.
  12. Taxi from the tourist bus stop in Kathmandu to your hotel.
  13. Breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trekking journey.
  14. Tea/coffee up to three times per day during the trek.
  15. Comfortable teahouse/lodge accommodation throughout the trekking route.
  16. One-night accommodation in Pokhara.
  17. Sleeping bag provided by our company for use during the trek.
  18. Trekking poles provided by our company.
  19. Crampons, if required due to trail and weather conditions.
  20. Necessary company arrangements and professional trekking services.
  21. Trekking completion certificate.
  22. Emergency support and coordination if required. Any emergency medical evacuation cost must be covered by the client's travel insurance or paid directly by the client if not covered by insurance.

EQUIPMENT PROVIDED

For your comfort and convenience, sleeping bags, trekking poles, and crampons, if required, are provided by our company for use during the trek.

These items are provided for the duration of the trek and should be returned to the company after completing the trek.


NOT INCLUDED

  1. International flights to and from Nepal.
  2. Nepal visa fees.
  3. Personal travel insurance.
  4. Bottled or boiled drinking water.
  5. Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages.
  6. Specialty coffee and other personal beverages.
  7. Hot showers, Wi-Fi/internet and battery charging at mountain teahouses where charged separately.
  8. Personal expenses not specifically mentioned in the package.
  9. Tips and gratuities for the trekking guide and other staff.
  10. Emergency medical evacuation and treatment costs.
  11. Any additional expenses caused by unforeseen circumstances such as severe weather, natural disasters, flight cancellations, road closures, illness or changes in government regulations.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

The walking distances, trekking times, driving durations and elevations provided in this itinerary are approximate and may vary depending on weather conditions, road and trail conditions, individual walking pace, and other unforeseen circumstances.

Nepal Everest Himalaya Hiking Pvt. Ltd. places the highest priority on the safety, comfort and well-being of every guest. Should conditions require, your trekking guide may adjust the itinerary to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience while maintaining the overall objectives of the journey.

The sections around Tilicho Lake, Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi and Thorong La are at high altitude and can be physically demanding. The itinerary therefore includes an acclimatization day in Manang and allows the guide to adjust the pace according to trail conditions and the trekker's condition.

The Tilicho route includes exposed and rugged sections. Local trail conditions will be assessed by the guide before proceeding.

The crossing of Thorong La Pass at 5,416 m is one of the most demanding days of the trek and requires an early start and appropriate pacing.

The Annapurna Base Camp section is also conducted progressively through Chhomrong, Bamboo, Deurali and Machhapuchhre Base Camp, with an overnight at Annapurna Base Camp before descending.


PRIVATE TREKKING SERVICE

This package is designed for travelers who prefer a private guided trek with their own dedicated guide, rather than joining a large group.

Our aim is to provide a safe, comfortable and well-organized Himalayan trekking experience with attentive service throughout the journey.

Nepal Everest Himalaya Hiking Pvt. Ltd. provides private guided trekking services in Nepal with experienced local guides and carefully arranged transportation, accommodation, permits and trekking support.

 

Tipping

 

Tipping is a valued tradition and part of the trekking culture in the Nepal Himalayas. While entirely voluntary, it is customary for guests to offer a gratuity to their trekking guide and porter at the end of the trek in recognition of their hard work, dedication, and professional service.

 

 

For more information about tipping practices in Nepal, please visit:

 

https://www.nepaltrekkinginhimalaya.com/pages/tipping-trekking-guides-in-nepal

Additional Information

Trekking Gear List:

www.nepaltrekkinginhimalaya.com/pages/trekking-equipment-list-in-details

 

Tourist Visa Fee (Updated):

www.nepaltrekkinginhimalaya.com/pages/nepal-visa-fee-updated

 

24/7 Customer Support:

www.nepaltrekkinginhimalaya.com/pages/customer-suppo

 
   

Customer Notice & Acknowledgment

By confirming your booking with Nepal Everest Himalaya Hiking Pvt. Ltd., you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to the following:

 

 

 

 

We are dedicated to ensuring your safe, enjoyable, and truly unforgettable Himalayan experience.

Have a wonderful day