Welcome to Kathmandu (1338m/4390ft)

Kathmandu - Upon landing at Kathmandu Airport (TIA), the anticipation of trekking the Annapurna Circuit becomes a reality. First, complete your visa and customs procedures; then, an office representative will greet you at the arrival gate with a sign displaying your name. They will transfer you to your hotel and assist with check-in, offering some refreshments. Enjoy a comfortable first night in Kathmandu.

Drive from Kathmandu to Besishahar and to Syange (1100m/3600 ft)

Trek from Syange to Dharapani (1960m/6100ft)

Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2630m/8890ft)

Chame - Today involves an altitude gain of around 500m as we ascend from Dharapani to Chame, with some descents. The trek begins with a gradual hike through refreshing pine and oak forests leading to Danaque. After crossing a small wooden bridge, a steep ascent takes us to Temang, located at the base of Lamjung Peak. From here, stunning views of the Manaslu Himalayan range are visible, and a couple of teahouses offer a lunch spot. The path becomes flatter and more straightforward from there. After about an hour of easy walking, we pass through Thanchok, known for its apple products, and reach Chame in about thirty minutes. Chame is the headquarters of the Manang district.

Trek from Chame to Pisang (3200m/10824ft)

Nepal - The morning in Chame is beautiful and bright as the sun’s rays illuminate nearby Lamjung Himal (6894m). Departing from our teahouse, we enjoy the natural surroundings and take a steep climb to Bhartang. With the guidance of our trekking leader, we navigate through a jungle walk, entering the valley at the end of the day called Pisang. Today, we see Pisang Peak (6091m) along with other nearby Annapurna Himalayas.

Trek from Pisang to Manang (3540m/11611ft)

Manang - As we surpass 3500m in altitude today, a noticeable change in the topography is observed. The trekking route becomes drier in the upper half of the Manang district. Yak herding and local agriculture are the primary occupations of the local inhabitants. Leaving Pisang, we climb a steep ridge offering great views of the Manang Valley. Taking the southern route through the small airstrip at Hongde (3325m), we gradually pass through Ngwal village. The Marshyandi River reappears at Mungi. After trekking for another hour, we reach Manang, where we will stay for two nights to acclimatize.

Manang Acclimatization Day (Optional hike to Gangapurna Lake or Melarepa Cave)

Manang - Proper acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness, which is common during high-altitude treks. Today, we focus on acclimatization, allowing our bodies to adapt to the changing environment. We take a scenic walk around Manang village and hike to Gangapurna Lake or Melarepa Cave, reaching higher grounds before returning to lower ones for sleep. This method is considered the most effective way to combat acute mountain sickness. In Manang, there is also the Himalayan Rescue Association, where you can volunteer with Western doctors who raise awareness about altitude sickness and the challenges of crossing Thorong La Pass. Later, we return to our teahouse in Manang.

Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (or you can push up to Ledar) (4110m/13484ft)

Yak Kharka - Today, we leave Manang village, crossing a river stream. The walk is challenging, primarily involving climbing through tough terrains above 4000m. We arrive at the small Tenki village settlement, then descend towards Jarsang Valley, cross the river again, have lunch at a nearby site, and undertake a strenuous steep climb to Yak Kharka, a yak grazing field or pasture land where a few yaks can be seen grazing. Beyond this point, there is no greenery, and it feels like entering alpine surroundings. If interested, you can hike up to Ledar today with the guidance of our professional trekking leader. We stay overnight at a local lodge in Yak Kharka.

Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorang Phedi (4420m/14501ft)

Thorong La Pass - Thorang Phedi is considered the base of Thorong La Pass or a popular stop before crossing the high-altitude pass. Today, we leave Yak Kharka, initially descending towards the riverside of the Marshyandi River. After a riverside lunch, we ascend towards Ledar, arriving at Thorong Phedi at 4600m above sea level by the end of the day. Depending on the season, fitness level, and interest, you might proceed to Thorong High Camp for the night. However, most of the time, we stop at Thorang Phedi.

Trek from Thorong Phedi, cross Thorong La Pass (5416m/17769ft) and trek to Muktinath (3800m/12467ft)

Muktinath Temple - Today is the most important, challenging, and rewarding day as we cross Thorong La Pass, the highest point of this trek, at 5416m, standing at eye level with the Annapurna Himalayas. We start early, between 4 to 5 AM, aiming to reach the high pass before 10 AM. Strong winds and clouds are common after noon, so we try to avoid them while enjoying the best views. This part of the trail is quite dangerous, as heavy snowfall may disrupt plans. Therefore, consulting your trip leader and following their instructions is essential. Do not rely solely on instincts or other group members. Trust the experienced and professional trekking guide leading your group. From Thorong La Pass, panoramic views of the Annapurna Himalayas and surrounding areas are visible.

Trek from Muktinath to Marpha (2660m/8250ft)

Marpha - A spiritual essence fills the atmosphere as we visit the holy temple of Muktinath early in the morning. After breakfast, we walk gradually downhill to Ekley Bhatti. The trail is steep, so careful use of trekking poles is necessary. Take one step at a time, enjoy the serene surroundings, and reach Ekley Bhatti comfortably. We then proceed to Jomsom, a very windy place where a full face mask and wind stopper jacket are needed to avoid windblast. The wind intensifies in the afternoon, so we aim to cross the downstream of Kaligandaki and arrive at Marpha before noon. This local village is known for its apple products, which we will surely taste.

Trek from Marpha to Kalopani (2530m/7848ft)

Kalopani - After celebrating “apple day” in Marpha, we pass by local tea shops, known as bhattis. Sampling apple brandy, tea, or coffee is a good choice. Walking comfortably on a flatter surface, we enjoy splendid views of the nearby Dhaulagiri Himalaya. We cross Tukuche village and see the famous Dhaulagiri icefall, where we might stop for photos and to appreciate the beautiful landscape. Our walk continues towards Largung and Kobang villages on a relatively flat trail to Kalopani. If interested, we can visit Tikuche Distillery, which supplies drinking water to nearby villages and towns.

Trek from Kalopani to Tatopani (1190m/3690ft)

Tatopani Hot Spring - From Kalopani, we enjoy wonderful views of Mt. Annapurna I and other surrounding peaks. Today, we descend to Tatopani, more than 1000m lower in elevation. After an early meal, we descend to Dana for lunch and see the world’s deepest Kaligandaki gorge. A mostly downhill trek for 3 hours brings us to Tatopani. From here, we have nice views of Nilgiri and other peaks. There is a natural hot spring at Tatopani, where we can relax. Later, we return to our local lodge in Tatopani.

Trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani (2780m/9480ft)

Ghorepani - Trekking in the Nepal Himalayas involves many ups and downs. Today, we ascend from 1190m to 2780m to reach Ghorepani. This challenge brings cultural and natural influences. We pass through the villages of Ghare, Shika, Phalate, and Chhitre, where most inhabitants are from the Magar and Gurung communities, with some mixed groups. With quick stops along the trails, jungle walks, and narrow paths, we enjoy fine views of the Annapurnas, though the best view is from Poonhill the next day. We go to bed early to wake up before sunrise.

Hike from Ghorepani to Poonhill (3210m/10531ft), descend to Tadapani (2630m/8626ft)

Tadapani - Today, we hike early to Poonhill viewpoint before sunrise to see panoramic views of the Annapurna Himalayas from a different perspective. After a 45-minute to an hour hike to the top, we eagerly await the magical sunrise. The sun rises slowly above the Annapurna range, a sight worth watching. A few moments later, we return to Ghorepani for breakfast and continue our trek to Tadapani.

On the way to Tadapani, we pass beautiful rhododendron trees, see langur monkeys, and walk through bamboo forests, arriving at Deurali. We have lunch at Banthati and take a 30-minute climb to reach Tadapani.

Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk (1940m/6360ft) and drive to Pokhara

Pokhara - Our more than two weeks of wonderful trekking concludes today. On the final day of walking, we hike from Tadapani to Ghandruk, experiencing cultural insights of the local Gurung communities. Many Gurung people join the Gurkha Army in the British and Indian Special Forces, known for their bravery. Joining the Gurkha Army is a tradition here. This place was also visited by Prince Charles in the 1980s and Prince Harry in 2016, who has a connection to the British Gurkha Army.

After witnessing cultural and natural highlights with stunning views of Machhapuchre, Annapurna South, and Himchuli, we descend to the Pokhara Baglung Highway and drive to Pokhara. We stay overnight at a comfortable hotel in Pokhara.

Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu

Kathmandu - We take a tourist bus to Kathmandu early in the morning, around 7 to 8 AM, arriving in front of the Icicles Adventure Office. You can visit our office to share your Annapurna Circuit adventure, or our representative will assist with your hotel transfer (check-in).

Airport drop and international departure from Kathmandu

Kathmandu - After 19 amazing days in Nepal with the Annapurna Circuit Trekking adventure, it’s time to leave this beautiful country and fly to your next destination. Today, we transfer you from your hotel to TIA airport in Kathmandu 3 hours before your scheduled international flight. We hope to have provided you with wonderful travel memories. See you again soon. Farewell. Included Meals: Breakfast

• Medical kit (carried by your trek leader)
• Porter service (2 trekkers: 1 porter)
• Experienced, English-speaking, government-licensed trek leader and assistant trek leader (4 trekkers: 1 assistant guide)
• Airport pickups and drops in a private vehicle
• All necessary paperwork and trekking permits (ACAP, TIMS)
• Teahouse accommodation during the trek
• All government and local taxes
• Transfer from Kathmandu to Jagat by Jeep & drive back to Kathmandu from Pokhara on tourist coach
• Accommodation as per itinerary
• Breakfast
• 3-star hotel accommodation in Pokhara with breakfast

• International airfare
• Nepal entry visa: you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (a multiple-entry tourist visa good for 30 days can be obtained by paying US $ 40 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, multiple-entry tourist visas for 90 days can be obtained by paying US $ 100. Please bring 2 copies of passport-size photos.
• Hot showers during the trek
• All kind of cold drinks e.g. water, coke, Fanta, juice etc.
• Personal trekking equipments
• WiFi internet during the trek
• Tips for trekking staff and driver

Embark on the Annapurna Circuit Trek, with a visit to the enthralling Tilicho Lake. Traverse from lowland villages inhabited by Brahmin and Chhetri groups to the distant settlements of Manang. Journey into the depths of the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the world’s deepest gorge, and marvel at the dazzling blue Tilicho Lake, the highest situated lake around the globe. Traverse the captivating path to the Thorong La Pass, among the loftiest passes in the mountain range. Wander through culturally and ethnically abundant villages and settlements in the heart of the Annapurna region. Observe the stark contrast on the landscape that fluctuates from lush subtropical woodlands to barren dry sceneries as you ascend. The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake tour also includes a trip to the spiritual center of the region, Muktinath, and offers panoramic views of the majestic Annapurna peaks from Poon Hill, one of the most renowned lookout spots in the country.

• Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
• Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.