How to Plan Your Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek in Kathmandu
If you’re an adventurous traveler and, in the mood for trekking into the heart of the Annapurna mountain range, you’ll be pleased to know that the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is considered one of the most rewarding routes. This challenging 18-day trek has stunning mountain views, deep gorges, high passes, and an optional excursion to high-altitude Tilicho Lake.
Overview of the Tour
The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is a guided tour, involving a small group of a maximum of eight travelers. The tour includes both air and land transport to and from Jomsom and Pokhara, all meals, accommodation throughout the trek, and trekking permits.
The highlight of the trek is the excursion to Tilicho Lake, a high-altitude lake located at 4,919 meters. The lake is surrounded by snowy peaks, and it’s a great spot for photography. Although challenging, this trek is recommended for fit and active travelers.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu
Upon arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you’ll be picked up by the tour operator and transferred to your hotel.
Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu
You’ll have a guided tour of Kathmandu, visiting historical and cultural landmarks such as Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath Stupa.
Day 3: Drive to Besishahar
You’ll start your trek with an early morning drive to Besishahar. The drive takes around 6-7 hours, depending on traffic.
Day 4: Trek to Bahundanda
Today, you’ll start your trek from Besishahar to Bahundanda. The trek takes around 6 hours, and you’ll pass through rice fields and cross a couple of suspension bridges.
Day 5: Trek to Chamje
Today, you’ll trek from Bahundanda to Chamje. The trek takes around 5 hours, and you’ll pass through forests and waterfalls.
Day 6: Trek to Dharapani
You’ll continue your trek from Chamje to Dharapani, which takes around 6 hours. You’ll cross a couple of suspension bridges and trek through scenic landscapes.
Day 7: Trek to Chame
Today, you’ll trek from Dharapani to Chame. The trek takes around 5 hours, and you’ll pass through apple orchards and forests.
Day 8: Trek to Pisang
You’ll start trekking from Chame to Pisang, which takes around 6 hours. The trek offers breathtaking views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak.
Day 9: Rest day in Pisang
Today is a rest day in Pisang, and you’ll have the option to hike to Upper Pisang for better views of the mountain range.
Day 10: Trek to Manang
You’ll continue your trek from Pisang to Manang, which takes around 6 hours. The trek takes you through pine forests, and you’ll have views of Annapurna III and IV.
Day 11: Rest day in Manang
Today is another rest day, and you’ll have the option to hike to Gangapurna Lake or hike to the Ice Lake.
Day 12: Trek to Khangsar Village
Today, you’ll trek from Manang to Khangsar Village, which takes around 5 hours. You’ll have views of Tilicho Peak and the Annapurna mountain range.
Day 13: Trek to Tilicho Base Camp
You’ll start trekking from Khangsar Village to Tilicho Base Camp, which takes around 5 hours. You’ll trek through a rocky terrain and have views of the Marsyangdi River.
Day 14: Excursion to Tilicho Lake
Today is the highlight of the trek, and you’ll hike to Tilicho Lake. The hike takes around 4-5 hours, and you’ll reach an altitude of 4,919 meters.
Day 15: Trek to Yak Kharka
You’ll trek back from Tilicho Base Camp to Yak Kharka, which takes around 6 hours. The trek takes you through forests, and you’ll have views of Nilgiri and other peaks.
Day 16: Trek to Thorong Phedi
Today, you’ll trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi, which takes around 4 hours. You’ll have views of the Thorong Peak, and the trek is a steep ascent.
Day 17: Trek to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass
This is the most challenging day of the trek, and you’ll start hiking from Thorong Phedi to Thorong La Pass. The pass is located at an altitude of 5,416 meters, and it takes around 4-5 hours to reach the other side. You’ll continue your trek to Muktinath, which takes around 2-3 hours.
Day 18: Trek to Jomsom and flight to Pokhara
You’ll end your trek by trekking from Muktinath to Jomsom, which takes around 5 hours. You’ll then take a flight back to Pokhara, and from there, you’ll be transferred to your hotel.
What’s Included
– Accommodation throughout the trek
– Full board meals while trekking (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
– Professional guide
– Drinks
– Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
– Food and drinks
Booking the Tour
If you’re interested in booking the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek, you can book it at Viator’s website. The tour costs $1,528.36 per person, and everything as mentioned before is included.
Conclusion
The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is a challenging trek, but the reward is enormous. The stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range, deep gorges, high passes, and the excursion to Tilicho Lake make this trek a memorable experience. If you’re up for the challenge, book your tour today and start planning your adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions about Kathmandu: All You Need to Know
If you are planning a visit to Kathmandu, Nepal, then you might have various questions in your mind. Don’t worry, we have got you covered. Here are some frequently asked questions about Kathmandu that will help you prepare for your trip.
1. What is the best time to visit Kathmandu?
Kathmandu enjoys a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. The best time to visit Kathmandu is during the Spring season (March to May) and Autumn season (September to November). During these times, the weather is pleasant, and the clear skies offer stunning views of the Himalayas. It’s also the perfect time to experience various festivals like Holi, Bisket Jatra, and Nepali New Year.
2. What is the local language in Kathmandu?
The official language of Nepal is Nepali, which is widely spoken in Kathmandu. However, you will find various ethnic communities residing in the city, and each of them has their own language. You will find people speaking Newari, Maithili, Tharu, and various other languages. Fortunately, most people in Kathmandu can speak and understand English, so you should not have any language barrier issues.
3. What is the currency in Nepal, and how can I exchange money?
The official currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). You can exchange your currency at banks or authorized money exchange centers in Kathmandu. Most hotels and restaurants accept credit cards, but it’s better to have some cash in hand for small purchases or in case of emergencies.
4. How do I get around Kathmandu?
The easiest way to get around Kathmandu is by taxi or rickshaw. However, if you wish to explore the city at your own pace, then it’s better to rent a bike or a scooter. You can easily find rental shops in Thamel, the tourist hub of Kathmandu. Walking is also a good option if you are staying in the central part of the city.
5. What are the must-visit places in Kathmandu?
Kathmandu is a city with rich cultural and historical significance. Some of the must-visit places in Kathmandu are:
Pashupatinath Temple
It’s a world-famous UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important Shiva temples in the world.
Boudhanath Stupa
It’s another UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest stupa in Nepal, with a history dating back to the 5th century.
Swayambhunath Temple
Also known as the Monkey Temple, it’s another UNESCO World Heritage Site and a famous Buddhist temple in Kathmandu.
Durbar Square
It’s a complex of palaces, courtyards, and temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Thamel
It’s the tourist hub of Kathmandu, and you will find everything from restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops.
6. What is the food like in Kathmandu?
The food in Kathmandu is a mix of Indian, Tibetan, and local Nepali cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes are:
Momo
It’s a Nepali version of dumplings made with minced meat or vegetables.
Dal Bhat
It’s a traditional Nepali meal consisting of lentil soup, rice, and vegetable curry.
Newari Cuisine
It’s a traditional cuisine of the Newari people, the original inhabitants of Kathmandu, and includes dishes like Choila, Bara, and Chatamari.
7. What are the visa requirements to enter Nepal?
All foreign nationals except Indian citizens need a visa to enter Nepal. You can get a tourist visa on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or apply for it online through the Nepalese Immigration website. The visa fee ranges from $30 to $100, depending on the duration of your stay.
Conclusion
Kathmandu is a city that can overwhelm you with its sights, smells, and sounds. The ancient temples, vibrant markets, and the friendly people will make your visit an unforgettable experience. By knowing the answers to these frequently asked questions about Kathmandu, you can plan for a smooth and hassle-free trip. Happy Travelling!
Table of Contents
