Whenever we talk about the classic treks in Nepal, the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake always comes at the top of the list. It is one of the early trekking programs in the Himalayas, full of adventure, challenges, beautiful landscapes, and traditional Nepali villages.
The journey begins with an easy walk across terraces, rhododendron-covered hills, and uneven hillsides. Gradually, the trail ascends the Marysangdi River Valley, taking you to Manang village. A two-night stop is a must here to acclimatize.
You will go on a hike to Ice Lake and Praken Gompa. From Manang, you will hike to Khangsar. The trail to Tilicho Lake diverts. Following a steep ridge along a slope, you will trek to Tilicho Lake via Siri Kharka and Tilicho Base Camp.
This part of the trail involves steep climbing. There is nothing except stones and sand on the way. Tilicho Base Camp is always covered in snow. From here, you will hike to Tilicho Lake, known as the jewel of the Himalayas.
The scenery is just spectacular. The attractive turquoise color of the lake surrounded by alpine trees and massive snow-covered mountains is true bliss for the eyes.
After exploring Tilicho Lake, you will descend back to Khangsar following the same trail and continue hiking towards Thorong La Pass. You will traverse the high alpine pastures and reach Yak Kharka.
The trail now enters the Jarsang Khola Valley. As you trek towards Thorong Phedi, the trail gets narrow and rocky. Thorong Phedi is the last main stop before Thorong La Pass.
Some trekkers also like to spend a night at High Camp for an early push to Thorong La Pass. Nevertheless, the trail to the top of Thorong La Pass is steep, rocky, and narrow. However, the mountain view from the top of the pass is outstanding.
Crossing Thorong La Pass is a great achievement and opens the door to many complex trekking routes in Nepal. Now, you will descend to Muktinath, which is a pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists in Nepal.
From here, the trail enters Lower Mustang. Traversing the arid Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world, you will trek through Lupra settlement and Kagbeni to reach Jomsom.
In Lupra, you will explore an ancient Bon monastery. Likewise, in Kagbeni, you can see some intricate architecture as well as the viral luxury Shinta Mani Hotel. A short flight from Jomsom will bring you to Pokhara, where the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake ends.
Highlights
- Embark on one of the classic treks in Nepal, the Annapurna Circuit
- Combine a side hike to Tilicho Lake, one of the highest alpine lakes in the world
- A lifetime adventurous trip that will explore the rich flora and fauna of the Annapurna region and Lower Mustang in Nepal
- Spend nights in beautiful villages during the trek and see the daily lifestyle of mountain people
- Witness stunning mountain panoramas and diverse landscapes
- Trek through terraces, rhododendron-covered hills, and uneven hillsides
- Traverse landslide areas, alpine meadows, and glacier moraines in the upper part of the trail
- Cross the challenging Thorong La Pass
- Learn about the religious importance of Muktinath Temple and explore a Bon monastery in Lupra
- Trek through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world
- Take a scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara
Is the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake suitable for you?
- The Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake is suitable for trekkers who have previous experience.
- Likewise, individuals who are fit and can walk 6 hours a day may also approach this trek without previous hiking experience.
- The Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake is demanding, so it is important that you are fit and ready to accept the challenges. With physical fitness, mental fitness is also crucial.
Cultural encounters during the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake trek
As much as the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake is adventurous and thrilling, it is also culturally enriching. Many Nepali people live along the trail. Each community has its own tradition, beliefs, lifestyle, and faith.
Although the trek doesn't majorly lean towards the cultural experience, you will have a glimpse of the locals' lifestyle and culture. During trekking, you will explore stupas and monasteries.
For instance, the Mutkinath Temple and Bon monastery in Lupra are two major religious places on the Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake trek route.
Which mountains do you see during this trek, and what are the landscapes?
The Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake starts from Chame and ends in Jomsom. You will spend 10 days trekking from Chame to Jomsom, and during these 10 days, you will see a plethora of landscapes.
The trail literally goes from terraced hills and rhododendron forests to alpine meadows and glacier moraines before ascending to the top of Thorong La Pass and entering lower Mustang, offering arid landscapes and views of unique huge rocks.
The mighty Annapurna range dominates the skyline throughout the trek. In addition to that, you will see mountains like Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Tilicho Peak, Pisang Peak, Fishtail, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, Tukuche Peak, etc.
What can you do to physically and mentally prepare for the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake 10 days?
- Exercises focused on improving your stamina and strength are best to prepare you physically for the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake 10 days.
- You can add long walks and day hikes to your workout routine for the best results.
- Exercising will help you push yourself mentally, which is great. In addition to that, learn about the Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake route.
Learn beyond the adventure and accomplishment side of this trek. It will help you set the right expectations for the trek and increase the success rate.
Why do the Annapurna Circuit Tilicho Lake trek with the Hiking in Himalaya team?
Trekking with the Hiking in Himalaya team means you will have the flexibility to mold the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake or any trek in Nepal as per your fitness, interest, and budget.
Our team ensures your safety during the trek. With over 25 years of expertise, we know how to lead trekkers in the Himalayas. Our knowledge about the Annapurna region is invaluable.
To be frank, the journey becomes much more exciting and immersive with us. Our Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake price is reasonable, and you get top-notch service.
There is no reason not to trek with us. If you have any questions regarding the Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake cost or need any support, feel free to contact us.