Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake and Ice Lake

• Pashupatinath Temple: After breakfast, your guide will pick you up for a private drive to Pashupatinath Temple, situated along the sacred Bagmati River. As Nepal’s premier Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is a spiritual hub that draws over a million pilgrims annually, especially during Maha Shivaratri.
• Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): Next, head to Swayambhunath Stupa perched high on a hilltop overlooking the valley. Climb the stone steps alongside playful local monkeys to reach the golden stupa, surrounded by ancient shrines, a Tibetan monastery, a museum, and a heritage library.
• Patan Durbar Square: Continue to Lalitpur to explore Patan Durbar Square, renowned for its incredible Newari craftsmanship and Malla-era architecture. Key highlights include the stone-carved Krishna Temple, the Patan Museum, the Golden Temple, and Sundari Chowk.

After the tour, transfer back to your hotel to relax. Overnight stay in Kathmandu

From Chame, you trek toward the ancient village of Lower Pisang. Following a rugged path alongside dramatic rock faces, your trail winds past a changing landscape of pine forests, cascading waterfalls, and views of soaring snowy peaks. As you climb higher into the rain-shadow zone, the terrain transforms into a dramatic, barren, lunar-like landscape before arriving in Lower Pisang.

Pisang is divided into two distinct settlements: Upper Pisang and Lower Pisang. Upper Pisang is the traditional, older village built high on the hillsides. Lined with prayer wheels, mani walls, and chortens, it features ancient stone houses and an iconic hillside monastery. In contrast, Lower Pisang sits along the river valley and houses most of the region’s modern teahouses and lodges.

The inhabitants of Pisang are descendants of Tibetan settlers, maintaining rich Tibetan customs, architecture, and spiritual traditions. From Upper Pisang, you are rewarded with sweeping, close-up views of Annapurna II, Pisang Peak, and Lamjung Himal. Overnight Teahouse in Lower Pisang

Today, you walk along one of the most challenging yet breathtaking sections of the Annapurna Circuit trail. The hike involves steep ascents that reward you with glorious views of the Annapurna Massif and the deep Marshyangdi River valley below. As you ascend into the rain shadow, the landscape transforms into a dramatic, semi-arid terrain reminiscent of the Tibetan plateau, interspersed with fragrant pine forests.

Your trail takes you through the high, picturesque settlements of Ghyaru and Nawal (Ngawal). Although it is a tough climb up to these ridges, the sweeping panoramas are magnificent, with the sharp summits of Annapurna III and Tilicho Peak (Tent Peak) towering directly over the valley. Continue down toward Braga (Braka), an ancient village filled with stone houses built by Tibetan settlers and home to one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in Nepal.

From Braga, it is a pleasant, flat walk to Manang. The trail is even and easy, bringing you to this famous, ancient trade hub within just 40 minutes. Upon arrival, check into your teahouse for a warm meal and a well-deserved rest. Overnight Teahouse in Manang

You spend the day in Manang to acclimatize to the higher altitude. Nestled at the foot of Annapurna III, the village offers splendid, close-up views of Gangapurna and the Annapurna range. To help your body adapt to the thinner air, you will take a scenic day hike up to Ice Lake (locally known as Kicho Tal).

The trail to Ice Lake winds steeply along the northern slopes of Chulu East. Upon reaching the top, you will discover the glacial lake, fed directly by the Chulu River flowing down the mountain slopes. Spend some time soaking in the peaceful, heavenly ambiance and taking photographs of the surrounding snow-capped peaks before retracing your steps back down to Manang. Overnight Teahouse in Manang

The journey to Yak Kharka begins with a gentle ascent through high-altitude scenery. Passing through an abandoned mountain settlement, the trail dips down alongside terraced farmlands and cultivated fields.

Another gradual climb brings you to a hilltop ridge, rewarding you with your first full view of Yak Kharka below. From the ridge, follow a steep descent down to the river, cross the footbridge, and walk steadily upward until reaching the village. Traditionally a high alpine grazing pasture used by local yak herders, Yak Kharka is a quiet outpost with just a handful of cozy teahouses offering warm food and shelter for the night. Overnight Teahouse in Yak Kharka

Follow an easy trail toward Tilicho Base Camp, featuring mostly gentle ascents along the way. However, extra caution is needed when navigating the notorious landslide area just before reaching the base camp. The path here is narrow, with loose rocks and scree, so take your time and watch your step carefully.

Once through the landslide zone, walk cautiously along the trail until you arrive at Tilicho Base Camp. Upon arrival, head directly to your teahouse, check into your booked rooms, and enjoy a well-deserved rest in the shadow of the mountains. Overnight Teahouse in Tilicho Base Camp

Today will be one of the most memorable days of your trek as you journey to Tilicho Lake—the second-highest lake in Nepal, sitting at a breathtaking altitude of 4,920 meters.

Your hike begins with a continuous uphill climb, taking you steadily higher until the shimmering lake appears before you. The dark emerald waters of Tilicho Lake, dramatically framed by pure white snow, giant glaciers, and ice, create an unforgettable sight that will surely captivate you.

Spend time capturing photographs and soaking in the heavenly, silent ambiance of the high Himalayas before retracing your steps back down to Siri Kharka. Upon returning to the settlement, head to your teahouse to unwind and enjoy a well-earned evening of relaxation. Overnight Teahouse in Siri Kharka

The journey to Yak Kharka begins with a gentle ascent through high-altitude scenery. Passing through an abandoned mountain settlement, the trail dips down alongside terraced farmlands and cultivated fields.

Another gradual climb brings you to a hilltop ridge, rewarding you with your first full view of Yak Kharka below. From the ridge, follow a steep descent down to the river, cross the footbridge, and walk steadily upward until reaching the village. Traditionally a high alpine grazing pasture used by local yak herders, Yak Kharka is a quiet outpost with just a handful of cozy teahouses offering warm food and shelter for the night. Overnight Teahouse in Yak Kharka

Today marks the final leg of your journey before making the legendary and challenging traverse across Thorong La Pass. Trekking steadily above 4,000 meters, it is vital to keep a slow, steady pace, stay well-hydrated, and consider taking Diamox if you begin to feel the effects of high altitude.

The trail leads through a serene, remote, and solitary high-alpine landscape where you can soak in the quiet majesty of the mountains. Thorong Phedi rests in a dramatic glacial valley walled in by towering snowy peaks on three sides. Because it is usually freezing at this high stopover point, head straight into a teahouse upon arrival to warm up with hot tea. Be sure to turn in early tonight, as a challenging and rewarding cross-mountain day awaits you tomorrow! Overnight Teahouse in Thorong Phedi

Today’s walk is difficult. You make an early start and head off at the crack of dawn. The trail is steep but easy. The last 600 meters to the highest point of the trek tends to be the toughest. When you finally reach the top of Thorong La Pass, spectacular views of the mountains greet you. Dhaulagiri rises in all its glory. In the distance, you can see the ancient kingdom of Upper Mustang and the Tibetan plateau. Take pictures and celebrate this wonderful moment with your teammates. Afterward, head down to Jomsom via the holy pilgrimage site of Muktinath. As you reach this small settlement, make your way to a guesthouse and rest your aching muscles. Jomsom, a picturesque small town and the headquarters of the Mustang district. Overnight in Jomsom.

After breakfast, transfer to Jomsom Airport for a scenic flight to Pokhara, offering breathtaking aerial views of mountain peaks, deep gorges, and river valleys. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel by 12:00 PM.

After a short rest, embark on a guided tour of Pokhara’s top attractions, including Phewa Lake, Tal Barahi Temple, Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, the World Peace Stupa, and the iconic Pumdikot Shiva Temple.

Congratulations on completing the Annapurna Circuit Trek! In the evening, gather with your guide, crew, and fellow trekkers for a well-deserved celebration. Overnight stay in Pokhara.

After breakfast, transfer to Pokhara Airport for your short flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy some leisure time to relax. If you wish to explore more of the city, optional guided tours to additional UNESCO Heritage Sites are available upon request.

In the evening, celebrate the conclusion of your journey with a complimentary farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant. Savor authentic regional cuisine while enjoying a vibrant cultural music and dance performance. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Today, say goodbye to Nepal with wonderful memories of your journey. Our representative will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport three hours prior to your scheduled flight departure.

If you wish to extend your journey or plan your next trip, do let us know! We offer custom tours and treks across some of the world’s most breathtaking destinations. Safe travels, and we look forward to welcoming you back soon.