Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake and Mustang Excursion｜Nepal

Begin your journey in Kathmandu, leaving the busy city behind for a scenic jeep or bus ride to Chame. It’s a long first day of around 9 to 12 hours, but the changing views of hills, valleys, rivers and mountains make the journey part of the adventure.

The next morning, start trekking from Chame to Upper Pisang, a 6 to 7-hour walk through forests, river valleys and traditional mountain villages. From Upper Pisang, continue for another 7 to 8 hours to Manang, with the Himalayan peaks becoming more impressive as you climb higher.

Spend a full acclimatization day in Manang to help your body adjust to the altitude. If you’re feeling good, take an optional 2 to 5-hour hike to Gangapurna Lake or Ice Lake, or simply enjoy some extra time exploring the village and resting before the higher sections of the trek.

Leaving Manang, trek for around 7 to 8 hours towards Tilicho Base Camp as the landscape becomes noticeably more remote and rugged. The following morning is one of the highlights of the trip: the climb to Tilicho Lake at 4,919 metres. Reaching this spectacular high-altitude lake takes effort, but the views of the lake surrounded by steep Himalayan mountains make it worth every step. After enjoying some time here, descend to Shree Kharka, completing a demanding 8 to 9-hour trekking day.

From Shree Kharka, walk for around 6 to 7 hours to Yak Kharka and reconnect with the main Annapurna Circuit trail. The following day is a shorter 4 to 5-hour trek to Thorong Phedi, giving you time to rest and prepare for the toughest and most rewarding part of the journey.

Start early the next morning for the climb to Thorong La Pass. At 5,416 metres, this is the highest point of the entire trek. The altitude makes the climb challenging, so keeping a slow and steady pace is important. After days of trekking through the mountains, finally standing on Thorong La is a moment you’re unlikely to forget. Enjoy the views and take that well-earned photo before beginning the long descent to Muktinath. With around 9 to 11 hours of walking, this is the biggest day of the trek.

After crossing Thorong La, give your legs a break and explore Mustang by jeep. Travel from Muktinath through Kagbeni and Jomsom before reaching Marpha. Mustang feels completely different from the landscapes you crossed earlier, with dry valleys, rugged mountains and old villages giving you another glimpse of life in this remote part of Nepal.

On the final day, leave Marpha and travel through Lete and the hot spring area before continuing to Pokhara. After high mountain passes, long trekking days, peaceful villages and unforgettable views, arriving in Pokhara is the perfect way to finish your Annapurna adventure.