Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek

Trekking route to Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek will commence. A representative from our company will be present at the airport to welcome you and take you to your hotel. The following day, we will start our exploration of the Kathmandu Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square.

On the third day, we will head to Chame, where our main trek to the Annapurna Circuit Trek will begin. After spending a night in Chame, we will trek through a jungle filled with rhododendron, oak, and bamboo to Pisang, passing by magnificent mountains such as Mt. Annapurna and Mt. Manaslu. We will also witness stunning waterfalls and breathtaking views of the Lamjung Himal.

The next day, we will trek from Pisang to Manang, which is a drier region of Nepal. After spending a night in upper Pisang, we will head to Tilicho Lake, which will involve a steep climb through alpine and juniper forests to Tilicho base camp through several charming settlements. Along the way, we will be treated to breathtaking views of towering mountains, including Annapurna and Tilicho Peak, before reaching our destination. We will then ascend to Tilicho Lake and return to Shree Kharka for an overnight stay.

We will then trek to Thorong Phedi, which may prove to be a challenging day. The following day, we will trek to Mustang’s Muktinath Temple, passing through the world’s highest pass, Thorong La Pass, which is located at an altitude of 5416 m. After spending the night in Mustang, we will visit Muktinath Temple, a famous religious site for both Hindu and Buddhist people, before moving on to Jomsom and Marpha, renowned for its apple orchards and ‘Marphali shau’ apples.

After that, we will return to Pokhara from Jomsom by Jeep and spend a night in lakeside Pokhara. We will then return to Kathmandu by bus or by flight which is optional concluding our trek upon our arrival.

Typical Day in Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek

 Our trekking day will begin with a scrumptious breakfast served promptly between 7 to 7:30 am, providing our guests with the necessary energy for the next part of their journey. Our team will start trekking at 8 am, and after 4 hours of trekking, we will reach our next destination while taking ample breaks to appreciate the breathtaking scenery.

To ensure our guests’ comfort and prevent any physical strain, we have designated enough rest time during the 6 to 7 hours of daily trekking. At noon, we will halt for a well-deserved lunch, allowing our guests to recharge themselves and relish the surrounding natural magnificence.

In the evening, our guests will be served a mouth-watering dinner between 6 to 7 pm, consisting of both local and international cuisine. Our skilled chefs will utilize fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to create an unforgettable dining experience. Our commitment to exceptional hospitality and attention to detail will make our guests’ trekking experience pleasant and unforgettable.

However, during the trek to Thorong La Pass, we will begin our journey very early in the morning, between 4 am to 4:30 am, as the trek is long, taking 8 to 9 hours. The strong wind currents in the pass area during the day could severely impact our trekking, so we must pass the Thorong La Pass before 9 to 10 am due to the weather conditions. This is why we have to start trekking early in the morning on this particular day.

Best Time to Visit Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek  

Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek is located in a vast region with varying altitudes and climates, resulting in different vegetation and temperature conditions. While the trek is doable all year round, the best time to embark on it depends on the specific region and preferred climate.

Spring is widely considered the best season to trek in the Himalayas, including Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek, as it is the season of blooming flowers, particularly the rhododendron. The forest is filled with these red and green flowers, creating a picturesque landscape with snow-covered mountains in the background. The temperature during the day ranges from negative to 12 degrees Celsius, making it ideal for trekking.

Autumn is also a great time for the Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek as it marks the end of the monsoon season, ensuring clear skies and breathtaking views of the green forests and mountains. The temperature averages at around 15 degrees Celsius, and this season offers a chance to immerse oneself in Nepalese culture and tradition, as it is full of festivals with Hindu and Buddhist beliefs.

Summer is favorable for those who love lush green environments and rainfall. However, the monsoon season can make the trails slippery and obstruct views of the mountains. Nevertheless, with proper equipment, risks can be minimized, and the trek can be less crowded.

Winter is perfect for those who enjoy the thrill of the cold, but some areas may be closed due to heavy snowfall. Proper gear, including thick clothes and sleeping bags, is necessary for this season.

In summary, Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek is best visited in the spring and autumn seasons, providing opportunities for natural beauty, adventure, and immersion in Nepalese culture and tradition.

Acclimatisation

Nepal is a highly sought-after destination for travelers and hikers alike, thanks to its diverse topography, ranging altitudes, and rich cultural heritage. The Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek, spanning over 260 km, covers a significant altitude range from 2493m to 5416m, and it can be a physically challenging experience, even for those in good shape. This journey can induce typical cold or flu symptoms due to the sudden climate shift, but it usually doesn’t pose any severe health concerns.

As the majority of the trekkers are foreigners from low altitudes, acclimatizing to Nepal’s environmental conditions above 2500m can be a significant obstacle during the trek. Altitude sickness, a common condition that emerges above 3000m altitude, can affect people who ascend too fast without proper acclimatization.

Our team of experienced professionals is well-equipped to assist trekkers in overcoming altitude sickness. We advise drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, tea, and hot soup, to minimize altitude sickness. We adopt a gradual ascent approach to allow the body to acclimate to higher altitudes. Resting often and avoiding overexertion during hikes or climbs is essential to allow the body to adjust.

Even physically fit individuals may be vulnerable to altitude sickness; thus, we ensure that the ascent is slow, usually 300 to 1000 meters per day, to provide ample rest. Our company is committed to providing exceptional service while prioritizing the welfare of our guests. We also make arrangements for medication in case anyone is unable to cope with altitude sickness.

Trekking difficulties in Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek  

Nepal’s diverse land structure has led to its division into three geographic regions, with varying terrain and trails. The Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek covers a distance of around 260 km, taking 14 days to complete, and ranging from 2500m to 5500m above sea level. It is a trek of moderate to challenging difficulty, with steep and narrow paths, rocky and snowy terrain, and the risk of altitude sickness. The highest pass on the trek is located at an altitude of 5415m, adding to the challenge of the journey.

To ensure a safe and comfortable experience, we provide experienced and qualified guides and porters who are fluent in English and polite in their conduct. They will arrange for all the necessary services and facilities during the trek, while also offering information on the area’s flora, fauna, mountains, jungles, rivers, and more. Additionally, they will describe the local communities and their traditions and culture, making the trek an enriching cultural experience.

However, due to the trek’s moderate to challenging difficulty level, we do not recommend it for infants, children, elderly people, pregnant women, regular medicine users, or those with below-average physical fitness.

Guide and Porter

The Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek is a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and disconnect from the stresses of daily life. Whether you’re traveling with colleagues, friends, family, or as a female trekker, this trek is an excellent option for those who are moderately fit. While it’s possible to trek independently, foreign visitors are required to have a guide and porter due to local regulations.

Our company provides highly qualified and experienced guides and porters who are fluent in English and renowned for their kindness and professionalism. We’re committed to introducing you to the rich culture and traditions of Nepal, and we can arrange for a translator if needed to ensure clear communication.

Our 12-day trekking package is perfect for group trekking. Since each porter can only carry up to 25 kg, it’s essential to pack efficiently. We offer porters to assist with carrying warm clothing and personal belongings, and the number of guides and porters we provide depends on the size of the group. We take great care to ensure that you have the necessary support to make your trek both enjoyable and safe.

The number of guides and porters we provide will depend on the size of the group as follows:

To summarize, our Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek package is an ideal way to experience the natural beauty of the Himalayas and the cultural richness of Nepal. Our friendly and experienced team will ensure that you have an unforgettable adventure.

Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trekking Permit

When trekking in Nepal, individuals or groups are generally free to explore the country. However, certain areas, such as the Himalayas, wildlife reserves, and conservation areas like Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek, have specific regulations in place to protect endangered flora and fauna.

Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek is a popular destination among trekkers, located within the Annapurna Conservation Area. To ensure the safety of the area’s protected plants and animals, the Nepalese government and tourism board require trekkers to obtain permits before embarking on their journey.

To obtain the necessary permits, interested trekkers should contact authorized trekking agencies, who will apply for them on their behalf. For Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek, a TIMS card (Trekkers Information Management System) is mandatory and can be acquired at the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu, requiring a 30 USD fee and approximately 20-30 minutes to complete the necessary form.

In addition to the TIMS card, trekkers must also obtain an Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Permit to enter the area, which can be obtained from either the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or its office in Pokhara for around 3000 NPR. It is important to note that a photograph is required for the permit application.

In conclusion, obtaining both the TIMS card and Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Permit is essential for anyone planning to trek in the Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek. These permits can be obtained from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Food and Accommodation in Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek  

Upon your arrival, we will arrange your accommodation at a comfortable 3-star hotel in Kathmandu, and throughout our trip, we will explore two major cities in Nepal and several villages. To ensure your comfort, we have booked cozy 3-star hotels for your stay in the cities, while in the villages, you will be accommodated in teahouses, homestays, or lodges that offer basic amenities. We take dietary requirements seriously and will provide healthy, hygienic, and nutritious meals that include traditional Nepali cuisine like Dal, Bhat, and Tarkari, as well as Indian and Tibetan dishes.

During our trek through districts such as Manang and Mustang, you will have the opportunity to sample local delicacies from the Gurung, Magar, and Thakali communities, which will undoubtedly be a highlight of our journey. To conclude the trek, we will host a special farewell dinner that includes some continental dishes.

Our trip is thoughtfully designed to provide an unforgettable adventure, blending cultural immersion with excitement, all while prioritizing your safety.

Drinking Water

The Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek takes you through diverse landscapes such as terrace farming, forests, and base camps, where teahouses or lodges may not be available. In order to protect the local flora and fauna, the use of plastic materials is prohibited, including plastic water bottles. As a result, visitors are required to bring their own reusable water bottles filled with water.

To ensure the safety and hygiene of our guests, we advise against drinking water directly from taps or streams. When your water bottle is empty, you can refill it at any available teahouses or lodges along the route. However, it is important to note that Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek is a popular and busy route, and therefore, it may be necessary to purchase properly filtered and boiled water.

Travel Insurance

When traveling to high-altitude destinations like Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek, there are inherent risks involved that could lead to setbacks or mishaps. Therefore, it is highly recommended to obtain travel insurance before embarking on such journeys, as it should be considered a mandatory requirement. The insurance policy should cover medical check-ups, ambulance and hospital charges, as well as helicopter rescue in case of medical emergencies or unforeseen calamities during the trek.

As Graceful Adventure does not provide insurance policies, trekkers must obtain their certificates from reputable insurance companies. Prior to starting the trek, the certificate must be presented to Graceful Adventure to ensure smooth coordination in the event of a rescue mission or any unforeseen incidents requiring full medical attention. Given the unpredictable nature of outdoor adventures, it is vital to minimize or mitigate risks to reduce the likelihood of mishaps or their potential impact. Therefore, obtaining travel insurance is crucial for treks like Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek.

To assist travelers from various regions, we recommend several insurance companies such as Online Global Health Insurance, Travelex, Insure My Trip.com, Mondial Assistance, Access America, HCC Medical Insurance Services, Good Neighbour Insurance, International Health, Insuremytrip.com, MultiNational Underwriters, TIC Travel Insurance Coordinators Ltd, Travel Assist, TraveLite, Specialty Group (UK) Limited, FirstAssist Services Limited, Harrison Beaumont, Assistance CORIS, Cover More Travel Insurance, CGU Insurance Limited, and Travel Insurance Consultants Pty. Ltd.

Please note that these recommendations are based on feedback from previous travelers and are provided for informational purposes only.

Electricity and communication

The Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek is a breathtaking journey that takes you through diverse terrains, including lush forests and towering peaks. While accommodations in cities offer continuous access to electricity and free internet, the same cannot be said for the trail. Therefore, it is important to prepare accordingly and bring along a portable power bank to ensure your electronic devices remain charged throughout the trek.

In the higher altitude areas, electricity is typically generated through mini hydropower or solar panels. However, access to these resources may come at a cost, such as a fee for charging your gadgets or using the internet. To avoid unexpected charges and ensure you have the power you need, it is best to bring a portable power bank capable of holding multiple charges.

By planning ahead and bringing a portable power bank, you can enjoy the natural beauty of the Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek without worrying about your electronic devices losing power. So don’t forget to pack your power bank along with your other essential items before embarking on this incredible adventure.

Money and currency exchange

Nepal’s urban areas, particularly Kathmandu and Pokhara, offer a range of ATM and money exchange services that make it easy for travelers to obtain Nepalese currency. However, these conveniences may not be accessible in rural areas, where only Nepalese currency is accepted, and modern banking facilities may not be available.

It is recommended that travelers plan ahead and exchange foreign currency for Nepalese currency before commencing a trek to ensure that adequate local currency is available for purchasing essentials such as food, water, and other supplies throughout the journey. Travelers can seek assistance from local currency exchange services in Kathmandu or Pokhara to ensure a smooth and stress-free process.

Graceful Adventure Travel Team

Graceful Adventure Travels Pvt. Ltd. is a well-respected, reputable, and registered adventure travel company based in Nepal. We specialize in offering trekking packages to guests from all around the world, who are keen to explore the breath-taking Himalayas. Our commitment to delivering exceptional service and achieving success have earned us the trust and loyalty of our guests.

Our ultimate aim is to ensure that our guests have an unforgettable and safe adventure, which has become our hallmark. To enhance our guest’s experience, we have a team of experienced and hardworking guides, assistant guides, and porters. Our exceptional service and facilities are renowned for making our treks fun, exciting, and memorable. We leave no stone unturned in meeting the needs and expectations of our esteemed guests.

Tipping

Tipping is a discretionary way of showing gratitude for services provided. You may choose to tip for services you appreciate, or express your gratitude by saying ‘DHANYABAD’, a Nepalese term for thank you. Typically, tipping is offered on the final day of the trip. However, trekkers may choose to tip hotel staff, lodge employees, or other individuals at any time during their trip. The amount of the tip is entirely at the discretion of the trekker and based on personal choice and perception.

Booking Process

Booking the Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek package offered by Graceful Adventure is a hassle-free process that can be easily completed through our company’s website. To book the package, you simply need to select it and provide all the required personal and group information. Once you have submitted these details, one of our company representatives will reach out to you promptly to provide you with an agreement.

To confirm your booking, you will need to sign the agreement and make an advance payment equal to 20% of the total cost. Once you have agreed to the terms and conditions outlined in the agreement and made the necessary payment, your booking will be confirmed. We have designed our booking process to be straightforward and user-friendly to ensure that our guests have a seamless experience.