Embark on a 20-day adventure through Nepal’s Manang District, conquering the world’s highest lake, Tilicho Lake, on the Annapurna Circuit trek. Experience breathtaking views of the Himalayas and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Kathmandu Arrival
Kathmandu - Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) and after clearing customs, a representative from Himalaya Sanctuary will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Thamel, Kathmandu for an overnight stay.
Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing (4-5 hours)
Kathmandu - After breakfast, embark on a day tour of Kathmandu city. You’ll visit Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Patan Durbar Square, and Swayambhunath Stupa. Swayambhunath, a Buddhist stupa over 2000 years old, is perched on a hill 77 meters above the valley floor, offering a panoramic view of Kathmandu. In the afternoon, explore Patan, also known as Lalitpur or the “city of beauty,” the oldest city in the valley. Patan is a significant center for Newari Buddhist religion and traditional arts and crafts, featuring 136 courtyards and 55 major temples. Overnight at your hotel in Kathmandu. Included meals: Breakfast
Drive from Kathmandu to Syange (1100m/3608 ft): 7-9 hours
Trek from Syange to Dharapani (1,860m/6,430ft): 5-7 hours
Jagat - After breakfast, begin your trek by crossing a suspension bridge and climbing steeply into the Manang region, reaching the village of Tal. Here, you’ll see several waterfalls forming a river by the sandy beaches. Follow the trail through barley, rice, and potato fields, passing through Kodo, one of the largest villages in the Manang Valley. After crossing another suspension bridge and a short climb past the stone Kani, you’ll arrive in Dharapani. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Dharapani to Chame (2,610m/8,891ft): 4-6 hours
Manang - Today’s trek takes you through forests of pine, fir, oak, and maple trees along a river to reach Chame, the district headquarters of Manang. You’ll be surrounded by lush forests and enjoy stunning views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV (7,525m). Take a break at a small hot spring to relax. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Chame to Pisang (3,200m/10824ft): 4-6 hours
Manang - Trek through a steep and narrow valley to get your first view of the Paungda Danda rock face, a curved rock face rising 1500m from the river. You’ll also see clear views of Annapurna II to the south and Pisang Peak to the northeast. Descend to the Manang Valley floor. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Pisang to Manang (3,540m/11,482ft): 5-7 hours
Manang - Take the upper trail through Upper Pisang via Geru for outstanding views of the north face of Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Tilicho, and Pisang Peak. As you ascend, the air will become colder, drier, and harsher. The trail passes through Tibetan settlements, offering a chance to explore Buddhist culture with a visit to Barge Monastery, the largest in Manang. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Manang Acclimatization Day
Manang - Spend the day acclimatizing by exploring Manang. In the early morning, hike up to Gangapurna Lake and Base Camp to admire Annapurna III, Tilicho, Pisang, and Chulu Peaks. Roam around Manang Village and its monasteries. In the afternoon, visit the Himalayan Rescue Association in Vraga village for a briefing on acute mountain sickness, its symptoms, and prevention. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Manang to Siri Kharka (4060m/13,320ft): 4-5 hours
Manang - Today’s trek is relatively easier. Take the upper route down to a river, cross it, and walk through coniferous forests. After about 3 hours, you’ll arrive at the Tibetan settlement of Khangsar. An hour later, you’ll reach Siri Kharka, with clear views of Gungang Himal and Mt. Chulu throughout the trek. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp (4150m/13,583ft): 5-6 hours
Tilicho Lake - Follow an easy path through the middle of a landslide area with impressive rock formations, trekking up to Tilicho Base Camp. Here, you’ll have a good view of Tilicho Peak and other snow-covered mountains. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Visit Tilicho Lake (4,920m/16,138 ft) then back to Siri Kharka: 5-6 hours
Tilicho Lake - Start early to avoid the afternoon wind. After a steep, consistent climb of 2-3 hours, you’ll reach Tilicho Lake, the highest lake in the world, also known as the “Great Ice Lake” by the leader of a French expedition team. This large, sparkling lake lies at the foot of the north face of Tilicho Peak. After spending some time here, return to Siri Kharka via the same route. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Siri Kharka to Yak Kharka (4060m/13,020ft): 4-5 hours
Manang - Descend to the uninhabited Khangsar village, pass Tare Gumba, a thousand-year-old monastery, and follow a rock wall out of Khangsar to descend to a bridge in the Thorong Khola Valley. Cross the river and hike up to a plateau to reach Yak Kharka. From here, you can see the Annapurna mountain range, other peaks, blue sheep (bharal), and, if you’re lucky, a snow leopard. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4525m/14501 ft): 3-4 hours
Manang - Walk uphill to Thorong Phedi, a small but busy settlement with amazing views of mountains and landscapes. Along the way, enjoy the best views of Mt. Gundang, Mt. Syagang, Thorung Peak, and Mt. Khatungkan. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Thorong Phedi to Thorong La Pass (5416 m/17764 ft) to Muktinath (3,800/12,467ft): 7-8 hours
Muktinath - Today is the most challenging part of the trip as you cross Thorong La Pass, one of the highest passes in the world and the highest point of the trek. Start early at 3 AM to tackle this challenge. Push through the icy air and high altitude, but the view from the pass will be worth it. You’ll see a panorama of majestic Himalayan peaks extending northwards into Tibet, with several main peaks of Annapurna behind you. Descend all the way to Muktinath, a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists. Buddhists call it Chumig Gyatsa, meaning “Hundred Waters” in Tibetan. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Drive from Muktinath to Tatopani (1,200m/3937 ft): 6-8 hours
Muktinath - Visit Muktinath Temple before continuing your journey by car to Tatopani, famous for its natural hot springs where you can soak and relax. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Tatopani to Ghorepani (2,850m/9,350ft): 7-9 hours
Ghorepani - Ascend to Ghorepani through the villages of Sikha and Chitre, inhabited by the ethnic Thakali people. Pass through terraced farmland surrounded by mountains, then through lush forests filled with rhododendron, birch, and magnolia trees, before stopping at Ghorepani, a beautiful village located on a ridge top. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Ghorepani to Poon Hill to Trek to Nayapul then drive to Pokhara: 5-6 hours trek and 1-hour drive
Pokhara - Early in the morning, ascend to Poon Hill (3,210m) to view the sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs, including Mt. Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Mt. Manaslu, and surrounding rice terraces. This spot is a favorite among photographers. After visiting Poon Hill, trek back to Nayapul and then drive to Pokhara. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu: 5-7 hours
Kathmandu - After breakfast, drive back to Kathmandu in a tourist bus. Alternatively, you can choose to return by a 25-minute flight (not included in the package). Included Meals: Breakfast
Departure from International Airport
Kathmandu - Our driver will drop you off at Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. Included Meals: Breakfast
- Private airport transfers
- 3-star hotel stays in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast
- Experienced, English-speaking licensed trek leader and assistants
- Porter service for luggage (2 trekkers: 1 porter)
- All necessary trekking permits and paperwork included
- Comprehensive medical kit available
- Transportation for sightseeing and treks as per the itinerary
- Guided city tour of Kathmandu
- Teahouse accommodations during the trek
- All meals provided during trek; Breakfast included at hotels
- Inclusive of all government and local taxes
- Nepalese visa fee
- International airfare to and from Kathmandu
- Excess baggage charges
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and/or Pokhara
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara in case of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain(due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
- Travel and rescue insurance
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.
- Tips for guide(s), porter(s) and driver(s
Embarking on the Annapurna Circuit trek, inclusive of Tilicho Lake and Poon Hill, escorts us to the loftiest lake in the globe, located in Nepal’s Manang District. Initially, we follow the Annapurna circuit trail, however, upon reaching Manang, we shift westwards into the mail valley and ascend towards Tilicho Lake. We rejoin the Annapurna circuit pathway and traverse the Thorong La pass, touted as one of the highest passes worldwide. Additionally, we ascend Poon Hill, renowned for its phenomenal panoramas of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Our 20-day expedition encompasses navigating forests, crossing unspoiled meadows, witnessing vegetative transitions, all under the magnificent presence of the Himalayas.
- Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264ft)
- Upon our arrival in the Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, we will be greeted by a representative from Himalayan Sanctuary Adventure Represent who will drop us off at our hotel.
- Day 02: Kathmandu: Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
- Today after breakfast we start a guided tour to several of the most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu. Some of these landmarks are considered World Heritage Sites including the historic Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the famous ‘Monkey Temple’ (Swayambhunath) and Buddhist shrine (Bouddhanath) which is one of the largest stupas in the world. At noon, there will be a pre-trip discussion where we can meet our trek leader and other team members. Himalayan Glacier briefs us regarding our trek as well as provides us an opportunity to ask any questions we may have regarding our upcoming adventure. Overnight in Kathmandu.
- Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Syange (1100m/3608 ft): 8 - 10 hours
- We begin our long drive to Syange early in the morning. En route we get to enjoy the countryside of Nepal with its green hills, winding rivers, terraced farms and of course the mighty Himalayas. Overnight in Syange.
- Day 04: Trek from Syange to Dharapani (1,960m/6,430ft): 7 - 8 hours
- We enter Manang district after crossing a large bridge near Tal. The trail passes through barley, rice and potato fields; and the waterfalls continue to accompany us even today. We also pass through the village of Kodo before reaching Dharapani which is one of the biggest villages in the Manang valley. Overnight in Dharapani.
- Day 05: Dharapani to Chame (2,710m/8,891ft): 5 - 6 hours
- Today we negotiate a few steep forested ridges along with several landslides on route to Chame. We should not forget to look up though, as we will be greeted with remarkable views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV (7,525m). We also come across small hot springs which should help us relax for a while. Overnight in Chame.
- Day 06: Chame to Pisang (3,300m/10824ft): 5 - 6 hours
- We walk through a steep and narrow valley to have our first view of Paungda Danda rock face, a dramatic curved rock face rising 1500m from the river. From here, we also gain excellent views of Annapurna 2 to the south and Pisang Peak to the north east. Next, we descend to the Manang Valley floor enjoying the captivating landscape. Overnight in Pisang.
- Day 07: Pisang to Manang (3,500m/11,482ft): 6 - 7 hours
- From Pisang there are two routes to Manang. We choose the one which passes through Upper Pisang via Geru as it guarantees outstanding views of Mt. Annapurna, Pisang Peak, and others. As we walk near Manang the climate becomes more cold and dry. However, a short visit to Barge Monastery, the biggest monastery in the Manang District should cheer us up. Overnight in Manang.
- Day 08: Manang: Acclimatization day
- In order to keep fit on the trails that follow, we keep ourselves busy today with a short hike to either Bhojo Gumba or Gangapurna Lake. If we have the energy, we can even hike to Vraga Village where we can visit the Himalayan Rescue Association which will give us some idea about Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Overnight in Manang.
- Day 09: Manang to Siri Kharka (4060m/13,320ft): 4-5 hours
- From Manang we head out through the western gates and follow the path down to the river. We cross the river and continue walking on its southern side through coniferous forest. After reaching Kangsar Village we walk further up towards Siri Kharka and pass a monastery on the way. The uphill walk could be tiring but we will have Gungang Himal and Mt. Chulu in the backdrop to keep us company. Overnight in Siri Kharka.
- Day 10: Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp (4140m/13,583ft): 5-6 hours
- While the path from Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp isn’t very steep or physically strenuous, it could be exhausting as we have to walk on narrow paths in loose scree and landslide area. Our trail goes through the middle of the landslide area whereby we can see impressive rock formations along the trail. Overnight in Tilicho Base Camp.
- Day 11: Visit Tilicho Lake (4,949m/16,138 ft) then back to Siri Kharka: 5-6 hours
- After the initial tough, steep, switch backed ascent, our trail continues to hug the side of the mountain in a gradual to steep incline before reaching the watershed. On the way we enjoy yaks and deer grazing above and below our trail. On the other side is Tilicho Lake, a large spectacularly set lake nestled at the foot of the north face of Tilicho Peak. The lake was reffered to by the leader of the French expedition team as ‘The Great Ice Lake’. The Lake also holds an important place for the Hindus as this sacred lake features in one of the holiest texts of the Hindus, The Ramayan. We retrace our step and return to Siri Kharka. Overnight in Siri Kharka.
- Day 12: Siri kharka to Yak kharka (4040m/13,020ft):4-5 hours
- We leave Siri Kharka and descend towards Khangsar Village. On the way, we pass Tare Gumba, a thousand year old monastery which is very important to the local people. Upon reaching Khangsar Village we realize that it is un-inhabitated except for occasional herders during festival times. We follow a rock wall out of Khangsar. We walk further more until we reach a seasonal bridge in the Thorang Khola valley. After crossing the river, we ascend for a while to a plateau. Next, walk furthermore until reaching Yak Kharka. Overnight in Yak Kharka.
- Day 13: Yak kharka to Thorang Phedi: (4420m/14501ft): 3-4 hours
- It is an uphill walk to Thorang Phedi. After walking for some time we cross a suspension bridge and reach Ledar village. We ascend furthermore and pass through towering cliffs before reaching Thorang Phedi, the last village before Thorong La. On this trip we are rewarded with one of the best views of Mt. Gundang, Mt. Syagang, Thorung Peak and Mt. Khatungkan. Overnight in Thorang Phedi.
- Day 14: Thorong Phedi to Thorong La pass (5416m/17764ft) to Muktinath (3,800/12,467ft): 7 - 8 hours
- Crossing Thorong La pass, one of the highest passes in the world will be our ultimate objective today. We will be crossing the pass from east to west (Manang to Muktinath) which is the easiest and safest direction. We get up around three in the morning and walk up the mountain. When we finally make it to the top, we realize that our journey was worth it. We can take a few photos before heading to Muktinath Valley at the foot of the Thorong La pass. Overnight in Muktinath.
- Day 15: Drive from Muktinath to Tatopani (1,200m/3937ft): 6 - 8 hours
- In the morning we visit the Muktinath Temple which a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists. In Hinduism, the temple is believed to be a sacred place called Mukti Kshetra, which literally means the “place of liberation or moksha”. After a visit to the sacred place, we drive to Tatopani and spend the night.
- Day 16: Tatopani to Ghorepani (2,850m/9,350ft): 7 - 8 hours
- We leave the Kali Gandaki and headed up the Ghar Khola valley. The trail leads us through a terraced farmland with mountains all around. We pass through the villages of Shikha and Chitre before reaching a beautiful rhododendron forest. When in bloom the rhododendron trees with its average height of up to 100” will be covered with pink or red flowers. Walking furthermore we reach Ghorepani, a beautiful village located at a ridge top. Overnight in Ghorepani.
- Day 17: Ghorepani to Poon Hill to Tadapani (2,700m/8,860ft): 6 - 7 hours
- To catch the sunrise over the Himalayas, we make an early morning climb along the steep trail to the viewpoint of Poon Hill (3,210m/10,529ft), the most popular trekking destination of the Annapurna region. It is also a great viewpoint to enjoy the amazing views of Mustang, Pokhara and more than 20 of the highest mountains including the close-up views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The snowy peaks of the high mountains loom above and around us glowing in the morning light. After taking photographs, we return back to Gorepani. After breakfast, we head east and climb a nearby ridge. We descend through rhododendron forests, pass by spectacular waterfalls and reach Tadapani to spend the night.
- Day 18: Trek to Nayapul then drive to Pokhara: 5-6 hours trek and 1 hour drive
- The trek from Tadapani until Ghandruk will be through a thick forest of rhododendron trees. After trekking for a while, we enter the village of Ghandruk, a slope settlement with stone houses mostly inhabited by the Gurung people. From here, we enjoy the towering views of the Fishtail, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli mountains. We trek further to Naya Pul then drive to Pokhara. Overnight in Pokhara.
- Day 19: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu: 5-6 hours
- After breakfast, we say goodbye to the beautiful lake city of Pokhara and drive towards Kathmandu. After reaching Kathmandu we have the rest of the day off to rest or do some souvenir shopping. To celebrate the successful completion of our journey, we will have a farewell dinner in the evening.
- Day 20: Final departure
- Our adventure in Nepal comes to an end today! A HimalayanSanctuary adventure representative will escort us to the airport approximately 3 hours before our scheduled flight. On our way home, we have plenty of time to plan our next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
