Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek

The ultimate Himalayan grand tour combining turquoise Tilicho Lake with Thorong La Pass.

Duration

16 Days / 15 Nights

Max Elevation

5,416m (Pass) / 4,919m (Lake)

Difficulty

Challenging / Strenuous

Starting Point

Pokhara Hub

Expedition Architecture

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek – Overview

This expedition incorporates a dramatic side-trip to Tilicho Lake (4,919m)—one of the highest alpine glacial lakes on earth—before crossing the mighty Thorong La Pass.

Set beneath the sheer glaciated cliffs of the 'Great Barrier', Tilicho Lake is a deep turquoise jewel. Visiting Tilicho before Thorong La provides unmatched acclimatization, making the pass crossing significantly easier and more enjoyable.

Tilicho Lake (4,919m)

Stand on the icy shores of one of the world's highest glacial lakes.

The Great Barrier

Walk beneath the legendary vertical snow wall discovered by Maurice Herzog.

Thorong La Pass (5,416m)

Cross the iconic high pass with superior acclimatization.

Complete Alpine Immersion

Experience two of Nepal's most revered mountain landmarks in one journey.

Field Schedule

Day-by-Day Expedition Itinerary

Paced for optimal safety, terrain enjoyment, and cultural immersion.

4WD transit up the dramatic Marsyangdi river canyon.

Ascend into the dry pine forests and broad valley of Manang.

Leave the main circuit trail and hike west toward Tilicho through Khangsar village.

Walk along dramatic landslide scree trails carved into the mountain cliffs.

Early morning ascent to the frozen blue expanse of Tilicho Lake beneath the Great Barrier.

Rejoin the main circuit trail heading toward Thorong La.

Final staging camp before the pass.

Trek over the summit of Thorong La with magnificent panoramic Himalayan views.

Drive through Mustang to Jomsom, flight to Pokhara.

Price Integrity

Transparent Inclusions & Exclusions

Included in $1390 USD

All Permits: ACAP and government park entry permits.
Licensed Mountain Guide: English-fluent, certified in Wilderness First Aid.
Insured Porters (IPPG): 1 porter per 2 trekkers, 20kg maximum load cap.
Teahouse Lodging: Hand-vetted mountain lodges throughout the route.
All Meals on Trail: 3 daily meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) plus hot tea.
Ground Transportation: Private transport to and from trailheads.

Exclusions

International Flights & Visa: Nepal entry tourist visa ($30/$50).
Emergency Travel Insurance: Mandatory policy covering high altitude and rescue.
Teahouse Incidentals: Hot showers, Wi-Fi cards, and device charging fees.
Personal Gear & Tipping: Discretionary gratuity for guide and porters.

Practical Intelligence

Frequently Answered Questions

The trail crosses exposed scree slopes that require sure footing, but is non-technical and well-trodden during trekking seasons.