Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake - 15 days

Best time to trek to Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake

There’s no doubt how a correct weather and climate conditions, plays a crucial role to either make your trip or break it into total nightmare as we do not want to ruin our expedition just because of bad atmosphere. If you are planning to do this odyssey and are thinking about which span of the year to choose, then the best time to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake is Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) in general, as these mentioned ideal seasons offer mild temperatures with less precipitation to begin the hike with.

However, one can also look forward to doing this trek to the Annapurna circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek in Spring and Summer but must have some prior experience to walk through muddy, snowy terrains. Here is a detailed overview of what each season has to offer, depending on various aspects and uniqueness.

Why Spring (March to May)?

Spring stands out as being one of the ideal seasons for the trek to Annapurna Circuit as it just falls right after winter, which means you get to walk around with mild humidity and fresh air. Besides, the temperature usually ranges from 5 to 12 degrees Celsius, allowing hikers to walk through several ascends and descends without being too sweaty and mentally drained out.

On top of that, as it is the blooming season of Nepal’s national flower, you can enjoy the beauty of the thriving red forest and lush green forest at the lower to mid trails. Moving to the upper section, the fascinating, unhindered views of mountains and landscapes with some pine forest adorning the valley can be seen towering high in the sky.

Why Autumn (September to November)?

Another ideal peak season to do the trek on the Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake trail is autumn, and to your surprise, there are several reasons behind this. Firstly, this span of the year is celebrated as a festive season of the Himalayas where the main festivals, Dashain and Tihar. That simply means you'll get to know how such festivals are commemorated by the Manage (Tibetans) in such a highland.

Secondly, as this period comes after the end of monsoon- that months where the rainfalls happen frequently, the weather gets clear and you get to catch the best possible views of Annapurna Mountain Range without any disturbance.

Lastly, the temperature only exceeds to a maximum of 18 degrees celsius and doesn’t fall below zero at the upper section, making it easy to hike and cozy to settle in. The best part is that you get see the great insight of the harvestation of crops by Tibetans in many sections, which is something unique to look over, making it the perfect and most loved season of the year.

What to expect in monsoon and winter (off seasons)?

Usually, many individuals prefer to avoid the Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake Trek in winter and summer as the pathway becomes challenging to pass through with slippery, muddy, and landslide areas.

The most strenuous thing is that the route to Thorong La Pass gets closed for some days if there is heavy snowfall at the upper terrains for safety purposes, so one must make sure that they have set 2-3 days leisure time to spend in the Annapurna region if such a problem come along the way.

However, if your holiday duration doesn’t match the peak season, then there won’t be any hassle in the future; just make sure to plan accordingly with us. Most importantly, it is highly suggested to carry gear such as ba ag cover, crampons, raincoats, and water proof clothes, so such heavy precipitation won’t be any issue.

Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake difficulty

Situated in an isolated section of the Annapurna region, the Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake Trek falls under moderately challenging treks in Nepal that go all the way through off-beaten trails. It is a high-altitude trek that ascends to a height over 3000 meters each day and demands at least 5-7 hours of walking per day by passing rugged terrain with many steep sections, which surely requires a basic level of physical fitness. The most strenous situation comes while crossing over the highest point of this trek- Thorong La Pass at 5416 meters. Other than that, it is relatively easy to navigate if you have some prior experience.

Besides, the terrain goes by several ascends and descends at many points of the trek to Annapurna circuit and Tilicho Lake, with dense forested trails, rocky fields, and long uphill walk so, if you have zero experience of what hike is supposed to be at remote areas, then you might find this trek a bit difficult. 

However, the Tilicho Lake and Annapurna Circuit trekking route doesn't go through the technical pathway that requires some expertise in rock scrambling or specialized gear, hence, it fits easily for beginners who are willing to commence on this expedition. Just make sure that you are fully prepared in terms of building stamina.

For the preparation, to join this Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake, you can just do basic exercises such as taking a walk along the streets, parks, and short hikes nearby completing 10,000 steps per day, or just engage in cardio such as swimming, jogging. If that sounds too much, then you can just carry a hiking bag with a few 7-8 kg loads on it and do ups and downs through the staircase. Nonetheless, with a positive mindset and appropriate gears with a pro guidance, this trek can undoubtedly go smoothly without any hassle.

Risk of Altitude Sickness and Trip Safety

As this Annapurna Circuit Tilicho Lake Trek reaches such a high altitude of 5416 meters, the possibility of altitude sickness is always there, no matter whether you are a pro or a beginner. Usually, the probability of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) hits when we ascend over 2500 meters. That's when the thin air gets unusual than the usual one that we are facing here in the city area, so you must take some preventive guidelines and have some awareness beforehand.

If you are panicking about whether you could get one during this 15 days Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake, then do not worry. Then, do not worry as our Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake itinerary is safely crafted by the pro expert team and guides where we will take a gradual ascent of only 400 to 500 meters per day, without going beyond the limitation. That helps us to slowly adapt to the rising elevation and avoid the risk of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). Also, with the best assistance of more than 10+ experienced guides, you do not have to worry about such situations.

There is a famous line that goes by, "Prevention is always better than regretting and solving the problems." Here are some preventive guidelines to evade the possibility of altitude sickness during the Annapurna and Tilicho Lake Trek:

• If you feel any sort of discomfort, such as difficulty in breathing, loss of control, insomnia (loss of appetite and sleep), skin turning pale, and vomiting/ nausea, then inform the guide immediately. He'll try to do what's best for you as he's medically equipped to take a break at the tea house for a day. If things get worse, then take a descend immidiately.
• Carry a "Diamox" if you are a beginner and have it with medical precaution if you are a beginner and have ever been to an expedition at such high altitude. What it does is it acts as a preventive medicine to avoid the possibility of AMS.
• Check your pulse rate through oximeter at every stopping point and measure it. If it goes beyond the normal and seems like a condition to worry and take a guidance with trek guide and do what fits better for you.
• Fueling the body with moisture makes the trip easier, so hydrate your body by at least 3-4 litres of water or fruits, especially while hiking through dry terrains and landscapes of the Annapurna circuit.
• If you aren't allergic to garlic, then try carrying dry gingers or garlic, that are available in marts at city area, it warms up the body and energizes the stamina level.

Meals and Drinking Facilities

Throughout this 15 days Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trekking, you'll get varied of options for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner through out the trekking trail. From western, continental to asian and local foods it caters the taste of every visitors. Just make sure of one thing: while ordering the food, try to mention the items that you would slightly like to avoid or are allergic to. 

Breakfast option: For the morning menu, several options are available, such as French toast served with peanut butter and jam, any type of eggs (boiled, fried, omelette), oat meals, porridge, granola, museli with milk, chapati (roti), tibetan breads with chunky beans and kidney beans, some curry veg etc. are provided. For the drinks, you can get many varied, such as coffee, tea, hot lemon water, soup or anything.

Lunch and Dinner: At the day and evening, the menu is even wider; you'll find many options such as Ramen, Chowmein, noodles, spaghetti, dumplings (momo), pasta, pizza, porridge, french fries, and spring rolls. If you want, then do not miss out on trying the Manange and Sherpa items such as thukpa, sherpa stews, khapse, tibetan rolls, and many more.

For the drinking water, every tea house provides hot water in the morning and evening time in a quick way as the nature wood heater boils the water 24/7 in the kitchen area. Boiled water might be a bit costly, so try to fill the water from the lodges and carry it throughout the trail, or you can just fill water through water taps, or river streams using water purification tablet to purify the water.

Accommodations during this trek to Annapurna Circuit via Tilicho Lake 

Our Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake package covers all the lodging facilities required for this trip for the whole 15 days, which will be pre-booked after your booking is confirmed with us. 

While accommodating at Annapurna Trekking Trail, the tea houses are basic yet comfortable, so do not expect anything fancy as they are run by locals themselves. There are many options available such as twin room, sharing room and double bed room. If you are a solo traveller and want a single room then, we can arrange it undoubtedly.

At the lower trails, you can find the attached washroom and bigger rooms, whereas after crossing Upper Pisang, the facilities get quite limited, such as sharing bathrooms and electric sockets availability at the dining area only due to the lack of lodges at higher sections. However, there is nothing to worry about, the rooms are clean and hygienic with comfortable mattresses, pillows, and blankets.

Also, take a note to carry sleeping bags and down jackets (will be provided by us) as the thickness of the blankets might not be cozy and warm enough, so it is highly suggested.

While in Pokhara and Kathmandu, we will arrange the best 4-star hotel or resort for you with the luxury facilities to have a relaxing time before and after the Annapurna circuit and Tilicho Lake trekking.

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek Solo 

If you are willing to do this Tilicho Lake and Annapurna Circuit Trek alone, then there won't be any problem as it isn't a restricted expedition where you must travel with a group or any other traveler partner. But please make sure that you hike along with the trekking guide to ensure safety as it ascends to an altitude over 3000 meters.

Solo Travelling makes you travel with a free mind and at your own pace with no doubt, so, it is always better to hike solo with the assistance of an experienced guide. While trekking to Annapurna Circuit would be a total rush in the group, hiking alone makes you feel a sense of freedom and connect with nature even more, so it surely becomes a time to disconnect with the world and chaos city area and create some memories in the Himalayas.

Having a licensed guide who is medically equipped ensures your safety and comfortability and makes sure that you cover every important aspect while trekking Annapurna Circuit Tilicho Lake. 

What Permits do I need for the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek?

To do this Annapurna and Tilicho Lake Trekking, there are two permits required: firstly, you must acquire an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit), and secondly, the TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System Card) is required to grant permission to hike along the Annapurna region. 

Here is the overview of what each permit depends on the nationality they hold.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit cost (ACAP fee): NPR 1000, i.e., USD 8 for SAARC individuals and costs NPR 3000, i.e, USD 28 for other nationals.

Trekkers Information Management System Card (TIMS Card cost): NPR 2000, USD 18 each

Note: After your booking is done, these required permits will be arranged by us.

Transportation Facilities along the trail

For the transportation for the Tilicho Lake Annapurna Circuit Trekking route, there won't be much hassle as the road construction is made up to Manang, but as we have to acclimatize well, we'll take a drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar by local bus, and take a jeep drive to Chame on the very first day. The local bus is the only means of vehicle to reach Besisahar; however, if you want to go to Besisahar to Chame via private jeep, then it will be managed.

After the trek to the Annapurna circuit is over, we'll take a jeep ride from Jomsom to Pokhara and then catch a standard tourist bus from Pokhara to Kathmandu. Also, take note that if you want to extend this trek, then you can even visit to Poon Hill which takes extra 2-3 days or if you have already been there, then you can do other tours here in Nepal via private vehicle.

Travel Insurance

To do this 15-day Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake Trek, travel insurance is mandatory, as this expedition reaches the highest altitude of 5146 meters and crosses 3000 meters while hiking. This Annapurna Circuit Trek doesn't posses any dangers, but we just want you to be safe and be prepared for the future unfortunate conditions. So, you can trail along with a free mind without overthinking throughout the journey as sometimes minor injuries can even cost hundreds of dollars here in Nepal.

Make sure that the travel insurance policy covers minor injuries, theft, lost baggage, trip cancellation, and most importantly, helicopter evacuation over 3000 meters. That way, it helps us to manage the immediate air rescue in a short matter of time. 

Essential Travel Tips for the Tilicho Lake Trek with Annapurna Circuit (ATM, Communication, Electricity, Packing List, Personal Expenses)

1. Credit facilities work only at Pokhara and Manang, it won't work after crossing Upper Pisang, having almost zero ATM facilities along the trail. So, try to do the money exchange while you are in Kathmandu or Pokhara in Nepali Ruppees (NPR) as other currency doesn't get accepted at remote areas.
2. Even though every tea house has accessibility, you must bring some cash, like USD 2-3 per day just for the internet usage on the upper Annapurna trail. Buy an NTC SIM Card while in Kathmandu, and purchase the $1 (NPR 130) that works fine at the route to give a call back to home. 
3. Electric sockets aren't available attached with room after crossing Manag, so it is highly suggested to carry power banks at least 1 or 2 to charge gadgets immediately. Even though the charging facility is available in the dining area, waiting in a queue just to connect to charging is a total hassle.
4. Do not overload your bag with heavy stuff of over 10 kgs and the hiking bag over 5 kgs as it will be too challenging to ascend carrying such weights on your back. Just make your packing list carrying necessities such as warm clothing gears, sunglasses, crampons, and basic first aid kits. Try to carry a waist bag so you can fit in the basic necessities such as gadgets and use it in an immediate way. 
5. Even though our Tilicho Lake with Annapurna Circuit Trek package covers all your necessities, you must bear some personal expenses such as beverages, gear, equipment, and tipping the guide or other supporting crew members (appreciated if given).
6. Other basic facilities, such as hot showers, laundry facilities, hot drinking water, and beverages, are available in every tea house, but you just need to pay extra, like $5-$6 for these kinds of services, which also totally depends on how you manage such personal expenses with.

Tilicho Lake and Annapurna Circuit Trek Cost for 2025 and 2026

The cost for the Annapurna circuit simply differs 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 cost. As this Annapurna trekking trail falls under remote areas, you will get the same kind of amenities, which are basic and simple. 

Our Annapurna and Tilicho Lake Trekking cost starts from USD 915 to USD 1250, 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 cheaper. We also offer 5% off to the family package who are hiking to Annapurna Circuit with their children and loved ones, for further more details you can contact us anytime soon, as pre bookings are already open for 2025 and 2026.

Safe Booking Process

To secure your booking to do this trek, you just have to pay 10% of the total cost, and the remaining cost can be paid after you arrive here in Nepal, Kathmandu, via Cash or any payment methods that are feasible to you. Destination Himalaya Treks and Expedition operates as a registered, licensed, government-approved trekking and tour operator that has been providing service to more than hundreds of hikers. You can confidently make a safe booking with us.

After your bookings are made, we require necessary documents, including your passport copy, passport-size photos, and flight details (if applicable) within a few days after the reservation. Booking payments can be made through Credit card, Cash, and bank transfer after your arrival, and for the pre-booking, you can make the payment via bank transfer.

For booking confirmation or any inquiries about the trip, please email us at info(a) info@destinationhimalayatreks.com or call +977 9851016814 through phone or WhatsApp, Viber, or IMO.

Last Minute Booking

If you are quite late to book this trek to Annapurna and Tilicho Lake, then you can relaxingly opt for this trip as we take last bookings and try to arrange all the requirements as soon as possible we can. However, last-minute booking does require 100% payment as we had to make the full payment in a last call for lodging and supporting crews. If you have any more confusion, you can mail us anytime soon via Whats App and Mail, we are here to assist you 24/7 hour.