This trek combines the world-famous Annapurna Circuit with a detour to Tilicho Lake (4,919m), one of the highest lakes in the world. It’s physically demanding but incredibly rewarding, ending with the crossing of the legendary Thorong La Pass (5,416m).
Highlight: The turquoise waters of Tilicho Lake surrounded by massive snow walls.
Drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani (1,860m)
You'll spend the day in a private jeep or local bus. The route follows the Marsyangdi River, passing through Besisahar. The road is rugged but offers views of waterfalls and lush green hills.
You’ll spend the day in a private jeep or local bus. The route follows the Marsyangdi River, passing through Besisahar. The road is rugged but offers views of waterfalls and lush green hills.
The trek officially begins! You’ll walk through pine and oak forests, passing through the village of Bagarchhap. As you approach Chame (the district headquarters of Manang), you’ll get your first views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal.
Today features a dramatic trail through a deep forest and across a massive curved rock face known as Paungda Danda. You’ll stay in Upper Pisang, which offers a stunning panorama of the Annapurna range.
Take the “Upper Route” via Ghyaru and Ngawal. It’s harder than the lower valley trail, but the aerial views of the mountains are superior. You’ll reach the large, bustling village of Manang by late afternoon.
To prevent altitude sickness, you must stay active. You can take a short hike to the Gangapurna Glacier Lake or visit the local monastery. This day is crucial before heading toward the 4,000m+ zone.
Leaving the main Annapurna Circuit trail, you head toward Tilicho. You’ll pass through the old, semi-abandoned village of Khangsar. The landscape becomes more desert-like and rugged.
This is a shorter day but involves walking through a “landslide zone” with narrow, gravelly paths. Be cautious and follow your guide’s lead. You’ll overnight at the Base Camp, surrounded by Tilicho Peak.
An early 4:00 AM start to avoid high winds. It’s a steep, icy climb to the lake. After taking in the turquoise waters, you’ll descend all the way back past the Base Camp to Siri Kharka for the night.
Instead of going back to Manang, you’ll take a high trail that connects directly to the main circuit route. You’ll see yaks grazing in high alpine pastures and stay in the small settlement of Yak Kharka.
A steady uphill walk. You will reach Thorong Phedi (the base of the pass) by lunch. Use the afternoon to rest and hydrate for the most difficult day of the journey.
The “Big Day.” You’ll start climbing around 3:30 AM. Reaching the top of the pass provides a 360-degree view of the Himalayas. You’ll then descend 1,600m to the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath.
Celebrate your achievement! You can take a local jeep down through the Kali Gandaki valley (passing Jomsom and Tatopani) or a short flight from Jomsom to Pokhara to end your trek.
