The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek crosses the challenging Thorong La Pass at 5,416 m and includes the scenic Poon Hill viewpoint at 3,210 m. This carefully planned 16-day teahouse trek combines a gradual pace with proper acclimatization, helping you enjoy the journey comfortably and responsibly.
Along the route, you will explore sacred monasteries, traditional Tibetan-style mountain villages, remote valleys, and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. From the turquoise waters of Tilicho Lake to the sunrise views from Poon Hill and the dramatic crossing of Thorong La Pass, the trek covers the region’s most remarkable highlights in one unforgettable adventure.
Highlights
- Explore the varied landscape and climatic zones that pass through green hills, dense forests, alpine lakes, and the highest mountains
- Breathtaking gigantic Himalayan peaks, including Annapurna I (8091 m), Dhaulagiri (8167 m), Nilgiri (7062 m), Manaslu (8163 m), Hiunchuli (6441 m), Tilicho Peak (7134 m), Lamjung Himal, Tukuche Peak, with the changing diverse landscapes
- Get a lively experience of diverse ethnic groups such as Manangi, Bhutias, Gurung, and Sherpas, which are highly influenced by Tibetan Buddhism
- Reach one of the highest lakes in the world - Tilicho Lake
- Traverse through several ancient hamlets such as Upper Pisang, Manang, Yak Kharka, Chame, and Siri Kharka, demonstrating the rich tapestry of culture
- Cross the enchanting world's highest Thorong La Pass and feel a sense of accomplishment
- Walk along the roaring sound of the Marshyangdi River and the deepest gorge of the Kali Gandaki Valley
- Pay a pilgrimage visit to Muktinath Temple, which is highly connected with Hinduism and Buddhist spirituality
- Insight into the sunrise view over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range, from the top of Poon Hill
- Spend a day in Pokhara city surrounded by the sparkling lake of Phewa Lake
Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake & Poon Hill - Detailed Overview
The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek combines two remarkable Himalayan experiences into one unforgettable journey. The route passes through peaceful mountain villages, forested valleys, rugged landscapes, and high-altitude trails surrounded by the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
The first part of the trek follows the Tilicho Lake route before rejoining the classic Annapurna Circuit toward Thorong La Pass. From there, the trail descends through the Kali Gandaki Valley to the sacred Muktinath Temple and the scenic Jomsom region. Trekkers with additional time can extend the journey to Poon Hill by travelling toward Tatopani and continuing along the Ghorepani route.
Our itinerary begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar, followed by a local bus and 4WD jeep ride to Chame. From Chame, the walking trail starts toward Upper Pisang, passing through the verdant forests and woodlands of the Annapurna Conservation Area.
The itinerary includes an acclimatization day in Manang (3,540 meters), where you can explore Gangapurna Lake or Ice Lake while enjoying close-up views of the Annapurna massif. This rest day helps your body adjust to the increasing altitude and reduces the risk of altitude sickness.
The trail then continues to Siri Kharka and Tilicho Base Camp before an uphill trek to Tilicho Lake (4,919 meters), one of the world’s highest glacial lakes. After returning to the Annapurna Circuit, we pass through Yak Kharka and Thorong High Camp before crossing the challenging Thorong La Pass. From the pass, the landscape changes dramatically from snow-covered Himalayan peaks to the dry, desert-like terrain of Upper Mustang.
After crossing Thorong La, we descend to the sacred Muktinath Temple and continue through the Kali Gandaki Valley to Tatopani. From here, the trail climbs through rhododendron forests to Ghorepani, where we hike to Poon Hill (3,210 meters) for a spectacular sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. We then descend to Banthanti, where the trail concludes, before driving to Pokhara and returning to Kathmandu.
From the lush forests and roaring rivers to Tilicho Lake, Thorong La Pass, Muktinath, the Mustang landscape, and the sunrise views from Poon Hill, this journey offers an extraordinary diversity of scenery and culture. Although the trek reaches elevations above 5,000 meters, safety remains our priority. Our experienced guides are available throughout the trek to assist you, and the itinerary is carefully designed with gradual daily altitude gains of approximately 300–500 meters.
Recent Update: As road construction has been completed, you can now drive directly to Manang, although prior high-altitude trekking experience is recommended. If you have limited time, you can choose our Short Annapurna Circuit Trek, which is completed in 10 days from Kathmandu.
What to expect on the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek in 2026 and 2027?
Known as one of the top 3 treks in this small continent of Asia, Nepal, which is ranked by none other than Lonely Planet in the year 2025, this trek to Annapurna Circuit combines the highest lakes in the world, Tilicho, that meanders through varied topography from lovely green hills to dense pine forests with blooming rhododendrons and the heavenly mountains. If you are looking for a thrilling adventure, then this combination of the world's highest pass and lake is perfect for you.
Here are the top 5 experiences that you will explore throughout this journey that will surely captivate you to enlist this trek to one of your bucket lists for 2026 and 2027:
Manang Valley: A Cultural Gem at 3519 meters
Situated at the highest altitude, Manang is a significant trading point for salt and yaks between Nepal and Tibet, which was also named the trading point of East Asia during the King Mahendra regime. Hence, while acclimatising here for a day before ascending to Tilicho, one can immerse oneself in the rich culture and traditions of the Manange communities.
Manangis are usually referred to as "Manangba," being highly influenced by the ancient lifestyle of Tibet. While settling here, you get to learn their culture and languages and try their attire, jewels, local delicacies, and even vibrant festivals, such as the Yatung Festival, Lhosar, and Buddha Jayanti, if your trip coincides with their festive season. The best part is the view of the high mountains, including the Annapurna Range, such as Annapurna II, Dhaulagiri, Chulu East, Pisang Peak, and Tilicho Peak, that surround the valley thoroughly, which can be seen just from the window and outside the tea house.
On the side hike during the Acclimatization day at Manang, we will also ascend to the Gangapurna Lake, which is formed by the melting of the glacier of Mt. Gangapurna (7454 meters). This lake, in the shade of green, or you can say turquoise, truly resembles the aura of emerald with the surrounding views of several snow-capped peaks of Khangsar Kang, Tent Peak, Annapurna III, South, and others, enriching our adventure.
Tilicho Lake (4,919m): World's Highest Lake Adventure
Have you ever wondered what it feels like to gaze at the views of the highest lakes in the world, Tilicho Lake, fully surrounded by the highest mountains, whose reflection is clearly shown at this wetland?
Soaring at an elevation of 4919 meters, with its turquoise shade and emerald diamond, a visit to Tilicho Lake with an ascent from Tilicho Base Camp might sound a bit strenuous as the altitude rises rapidly at such an elevation. However, reaching the lake on the 8th day, with several snow-capped peaks, including the Annapurna Mountain Range that stretches to the view of Khangsar, Gangapurna Himal, and Tilicho (Tent Peak), makes our 2-3 hour ascent one hundred per cent worth it.
Not only that, but many Hindus and Buddhists across the globe visit Tilicho Lake as it is highly related to the mythology of the "Ramayana", as it is believed that this lake is the ancient Kak Bhusundi Lake where Kak Bhusundi, a sage, shared knowledge with Garuda, the king of birds, also known as "Lord Vishnu".
This mythology and firm spiritual belief perfectly blend with the heavenly beauty of the oasis surrounded by the Annapurna massif. It is also connected with Tibetan Buddhism, as it is said that Guru Rinpoche, also known as "Padmasambhava," and Milarepa used to meditate here to seek blessings. In the present day, many believers come here to pay respect and do some kind of "Puja" to seek blessings and bring fortune and prosperity in life.
Crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416m): Epic High-Altitude Crossing
If you want to feel the sense of accomplishment of reaching the top point of Thorong La Pass at (5416 m) after a long, challenging journey and feel the profound connection with nature and the mountains, then this trek is something that you do not want to miss. A continuous hike of almost 3-4 hours through the steep section and slippery pathway with crampons on and attaining the world's highest pass of Thorung La rewards us with the best possible views of mountains and landscapes.
The panoramic vista of breathtaking views of the Himalayan range, such as the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massif, two of the top 10 highest peaks in the world, encircles us thoroughly. Looking back, we get to see an insight into the Tibetan plateau of the Upper Mustang region and the Annapurna Himalaya of the Manang region, demonstrating the varied topography with the Tibetan flags fluttering in this highland, making our challenging journey one hundred per cent worth it.
Experience the Spiritual Beauty of Muktinath Temple
Muktinath Temple is one of the most highlighted sections of our Tilicho Lake and Annapurna Circuit Trek after crossing over Thorong La Pass, which is a pilgrimage site for both Hinduism and Buddhism. Nestled at an altitude of 3710 meters, it is famous for the 106 tap water taps said to wash away sins and bring blessings to one's life; hence, over 1,00,000 come here to pay a visit to the pilgrimage Muktinath temple; so one can imagine the rich significance that this holy land holds.
It covers many small temples, mani walls connected with Guru Rinpoche, and Lord Vishnu. Nearby, you can see the huge statue of "Lord Buddha" on the right side with the dry landscapes, the deepest gorge of the Kali Gandaki Valley, and the towering Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Ranges. While we might perceive this trip, the rich cultural mosaic stands out as the main highlight of this adventurous journey.
Poon Hill View Point (3210 m): One of the Best Annapurna Viewpoints
Poon Hill is considered one of the most popular viewpoints in the Annapurna region, known for the breathtaking sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. A short 45-minute ascent from Ghorepani, at a 4:00 AM push, takes you to the vantage point, offering panoramic insights of the giants, including Annapurna I, South, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and Nilgiri.
Concluding Journey with Thrilling Outdoor Activities at Pokhara
Why just conclude our trekking journey with only visiting cultural sites and rugged landscapes, when we can even explore the best outdoor activities in one of the most lively cities of Nepal, Pokhara? After finishing our trek, we will drive to Pokhara, also known as the city of lakes, with a front view of Machhapuchhre (Mt. Fishtail)- 6993 meters.
In this city, we can go on a roller coaster ride by boating and paragliding at Phewa Lake or visit the famous Pundikot, the hill point of a big statue of Lord Shiva, which was just completed in 2025. Or Shanti Stupa. Or there are many other options, such as strolling around Pokhara Street, tasting trout fish, or visiting the local markets to explore the handicraft items, thangka paintings, and many more. Just tell us what your forte is! And we will plan many other outdoor activities here in Pokhara.
Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake and Poon Hill Cost
The Annapurna Circuit, Tilicho Lake, and Poon Hill costs differ based on various factors such as the length of the holiday duration, lodging facilities (what kind of accommodations) you are looking for, permit fees, meals, and most importantly, transportation costs. As this Annapurna trekking trail falls under remote areas, you will get the same kind of amenities, which are basic and simple.
The package costs from USD 849 to USD 1399, covering all the requirements for this trek, from accommodation to food, vehicle cost, permits, and every necessity. If you are hiking with more travel partners or have more trekkers in a group, then the price will be slightly lower. We also offer a 5% discount to families who are hiking the adventure with their children and loved ones. For further details, you can contact us anytime soon, as pre-bookings are already open for 2026 and 2027:
| No. of Hikers | Standard Price (USD) |
| 1 | 1299 |
| 2-4 | 1199 |
| 5-7 | 1149 |
| 8-11 | 1099 |
| 12-16 | 1049 |
Destination Himalaya Team: Experienced and Trained Supporting Crews
For your Himalayan odyssey, to the classic Annapurna trail, or any adventure in Nepal, from the beginning till the very end, throughout the journey, you'll be assisted by our experienced, trained, medically equipped supporting team trekking crews. The guide will assist you 24 hours a day, and takes care of the logistics as well, they are medically trained via NMA (Nepal Mountainnering Association) who will look after you, and keep a track of your medical health throughout, thrpugh oximeter (measure your pulse rate), check signs of the altitude symptoms, and become your quick medical respodant, at such an isolated trailhead.
Below is a glimpse of the attributes of the team leaders and the guide for the tour:
- Pro Expert Team with more than 15+ years of experience, to guide you for the trip customisation, alternative routes, and the best itineraries, as per your experiences and budget
- Affiliated with NMA (Nepal Mountaineering Association) and TAAN (Trekkers Association Agency of Nepal), and a local registered travel agency
- Highly experienced local trekking guide, who is medically trained, equipped, knows every call of the mountains, and handles high-altitude navigation with ease
- Proficiency in English Speaking, with other languages as well (if you want any specific native speaking language guide, then you must let us know beforehand)
- Links with locals of the region, facilitates interactions, and provides insights into the ethnic group communities
- Problem-solving and great communication skills - helping you throughout
- Shares a complete highlighted culture, traditions, and historical background
- Follows eco-friendly, sustainable, and responsible tourism


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