Experience the combination of two iconic treks, the Classic Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake, in a seamless 17-day journey guided by the Nepal Hiking Team. Explore captivating landscapes and cultural riches among the Himalayas.
Do you want to witness the spectacular views of Annapurna Lake and visit the beautiful Tilicho Lake? If you wish, you can look at the Classic Annapurna Circuit with the Tilicho Lake trekking package. The package is attractive, and the adventurer can trek and explore the trip beautifully.
The trek follows an ancient route that was embarked on by travelers all around the world. The Tilicho Lake is visited by many and has a remarkable history. Significantly, the Lake holds religious value for the Hindus. In the Ramayana, the holy book of the Hindus, it is written that a sacred sage, Kak Bhusundi, shared the events of Ramayana with Garuda, the King of Birds. Hence, the holy is scared and regarded highly by all.
We would love to welcome you to Tilicho Lake and witness the beauty with your eyes. We have a fantastic team that includes trekking leaders and guides. They are eager to guide you and accompany you on this splendid trek. So why wait? Please send us an inquiry, pack your bags, and let's get ready for an adventure!
Before you begin the journey, we'd like to give you a route overview of the Classic Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake.
Firstly, the trip begins upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport. Staff will greet you and escort you to the hotel. Then, we'll drive to Dharapani and start our trek to Chame. From there, we'll hike to Pisang, Manang via Ghyaru, Ngawal, and Mungji. At Managa, a day is set aside for acclimatization to the higher altitude. The hike then continues to Siri Kharka and finally to Tilicho Base Camp. Later, we'll visit Tilicho Lake and descend to Siri Kharka, Yak Kharka, and Thorong Phedi.
From Thorong Phedi, we'll ascend to Thorong La Pass and then descend to Muktinath. After spending a night there, we'll drive back to Tatopani to enjoy a relaxing dip in the hot spring. The hike continues to Ghorepani, followed by a morning hike to the Poon Hill viewpoint. After visiting Poonhill, we will return to Ghorepani. Then, we trek down to Ulleri, catching a jeep to Pokhara.
We'll again take a drive back to Kathmandu and then bid farewell.
The Classic Annapurna circuit with Tilicho Lake is done throughout the year, but spring and autumn are the best times.
Spring (March, April & May) is one of the most popular times to go on this trip. You’ll witness the wildflowers in full bloom. It’s the best time to experience nature at its best and is a perfect moment to see local farming communities in full swing.
Autumn (September, October, and November) is another best time to trek. It offers perfect weather and a temperate climate. During this time, you can also witness Mount Annapurna seamlessly, with clear skies and stunning panoramas.
You can also go on this trek during the summer. If you want to see greenery and wildflowers in their natural form, this might be the perfect time for you. The season brings mild temperatures during the day, making it ideal for trekking.
Lately, there has been extensive road construction (KATHMANDU TO POKHARA )on Prithvi Highway, causing traffic congestion and air pollution. The journey that used to take around 6-7 hours now takes roughly 8-9 hours. We appreciate your patience.
Upon your arrival, you will be welcomed by one of the Nepal Hiking Team's representatives. He will help you get transferred to your hotel. You will also be given further details about the plans and programs for the trip. Since no other planned activities are today, you may relax at the hotel.
Overnight stay at Hotel.
Kathmandu, you will have a scenic but very long drive to Dharapani. The road is laden with beautiful natural sceneries, and you will experience the quintessence of Nepal's countryside. Crossing forests and clearings, you will reach Dharapani after passing several rural villages on the way. It is a great way to quickly glimpse the local people who reside in natural villages away from the bustling capital.
Overnight stay at the guesthouse at Dharapani.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.
The trail climbs along the mule track into a fir forest and then follows the river alongside the higher oak and maple trees. On the way, you will be awestruck by spectacular views of major Himalayan peaks.
Overnight at Guesthouse.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included.
Our trail now follows a narrow, steep river valley winding through deep woodland. The view of Pisang Peak and Annapurna II on our way is truly unique.
Overnight at the Guesthouse.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included.
Today we will take the upper route to Manang via Ghyaru – Ngawal – Mungji. We will experience more breathtaking scenery as the towering, majestic peaks overwhelm our senses with panoramic views of Annapurna, Pisang Peak, and several others. We will notice a change in the landscape and vegetation from today. The cold, dry climate creates a much harsher environment. Our short visit to Barge Monastery, the largest in the entire district of Manang, will be memorable.
This day is set aside for acclimatization to the higher altitude. We'll spend our time visiting the monastery with a side trip to Gangapurna Lake. We can also visit the local villages and the Himalayan Rescue Association Clinic.
From Manang, we will head out through the western gates and follow the path down to the river. Crossing the river, we will continue walking on its southern side through coniferous forests. After reaching the Kangsar Village, we will walk towards Siri Kharka and pass a monastery. The uphill walk could be tiring, but we will have the Gungang Himal and Mount Chulu in the backdrop to keep us company.
While the path from Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp is relatively steep and physically strenuous, it could be exhausting as we will have to walk on narrow paths in a loose scree and landslide-prone area. Our trail goes through the middle of the landslide area, where we can see impressive rock formations along the trail. Overnight stay at the Tilicho Base Camp.
Our trail steadily climbs along the side of the mountain after the challenging ascent until we reach the watershed. Along the way, we can witness yaks and deer grazing. Across the mountain is the magnificent Tilicho Lake located at the bottom of the north face of Tilicho Peak.
We will eventually backtrack to Tilicho Lake Base Camp and proceed to Siri Kharka.
We will leave Siri Kharka and descend towards the Khangsar Village today. On the way, we will pass Tare Gumba- a thousand-year-old monastery that is very important to the local people there. Upon reaching the Khangsar Village, we can see it is unhabituated except for occasional herders during festival times.
Following a rock wall out of Khangsar, we will walk further until we reach a seasonal bridge in the Thorang Khola Valley. After crossing the river, we will ascend to a plateau.
Next, we will be walking until we reach Yak Kharka.
We will make our way to the foot of the pass to Throng Phedi. This is a small yet busy settlement catering to the needs of tired trekkers and climbers. Groups such as ours use this point as a base camp. Some group members might want to hike to the High Camp today to make the next day easier.
A tough day is planned for tomorrow, and we stop at Thorong Phedi to sleep soundly (rather than risk a less peaceful night in the higher altitude at High Camp).
We will make an early start on our climb to the pass. We need to be fresh because the initial ascent stage is very steep. As we approach the peak, the trail becomes slushy from melting snow.
After making our way through rocky ridges, we arrive at the top of the pass (5416m). The top offers an indescribably magnificent 360-degree panorama of snow-capped peaks extending northwards into Tibet.
Looking back, we can see several peaks of Annapurna, and in front of us is the beautiful gorge of Kali Gandaki. Our trail then descends steeply down to Muktinath (3800m) – an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. It is a special place and home to many ethnic Tibetans and devout Buddhists.
Take a scenic drive to Tatopani, passing through charming towns like Jomsom, Marpha, Tukuche, and Ghasa. Along the way, you can relish the breathtaking views of the valley, rivers, waterfalls, and villages.
Rest and relax in the hot spring.
After leaving the hot spring, we hike up to Ghorepani and arrive in the afternoon. The journey is quite long and mostly uphill.
Hike to Poon Hill (3210m) and trek to Banthanti 4 hours hike and a 2-hour drive to Pokhara.
This morning, we will get up early and hike to Poon Hill. You will see superb sunrise and panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mt. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Fishtail, and others. After visiting Poonhill, we will return to Ghorepani. Then trek down to Banthanti where we catch a jeep to Pokhara.
Enjoy a scenic drive back to Kathmandu on a tourist bus. Rest comfortably.
Please Note
Instead of driving from Pokhara to Kathmandu, you can opt for domestic flights. The ride usually takes 8-9 hours or more, depending upon the traffic, and can get exhausting. The flight is 25 minutes on-air, and the additional cost is USD 90.00 per person.
Approximately 3 hours before the scheduled flight, a representative from Nepal Hiking Team will take you to the airport.
Read our genuine feedback from past travelers with Nepal Hiking Team sourced from TripAdvisor, Google, Facebook, and Trustpilot.
I recently did the 14-day Annapurna Circuit trek with the Nepal Hiking Team.
The Nepal Hiking Team organised everything right from our pickup at the airport to our drop-off at the end of the trip, and the quality of service was incredible, making it feel as if we didn’t lift a finger the entire trip.
The trek was incredible, but was uplifted even further by our excellent staff, Prakash Sapkota, our head guide, Basu, our assistant guide, and our three amazing porters.
The whole team was friendly, funny, and professional. Our porters were the friendliest and the hardest-working people I have ever met. Despite the language barrier, we managed to play cards and still became friends.
Basu, a professional, experienced, and fun guide, made us laugh and always wore a smile. Although he has walked the trail multiple times, he still made sure that we enjoyed it ourselves on our first time.
I would recommend the Nepal Hiking Team to anyone visiting Nepal for a future trek. They offer an excellent service at a competitive price without a doubt.
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We recently completed the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Nepal Hiking Team, and it was truly a memorable experience from start to finish.
From the moment we arrived in Nepal, everything was perfectly organized, making the entire journey smooth and stress-free. The level of coordination and attention to detail gave us confidence that we were in good hands.
Our guide, Bishal, and his incredible team deserve special recognition. Bishal’s deep knowledge of the region, warm personality, and constant attention to our comfort made the trek even more enjoyable. Throughout the journey, the team added thoughtful touches — arranging cozy tea breaks, checking in with us during more challenging sections, and ensuring our meal orders were placed on time at each stop. These small but meaningful efforts made a big difference in our overall experience.
Some of the most unforgettable highlights included crossing Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters and witnessing the breathtaking sunrise at Poon Hill. The panoramic Himalayan views were simply spectacular and made every step of the journey worthwhile.
I just finished a three-week adventure in Nepal focused on the Annapurna Circuit, including Tilicho Lake and the Thorong-La Pass. I went solo with a licensed guide, Bibek, and a porter, and it was the best decision I could have made. We reached Thorong-La with perfect weather and not a single day felt wasted.
Why I recommend choosing a private guide from a reputable company, whether solo or with a partner:
About the porter: I hired one who carried most of my gear while I managed water, snacks, and essentials. Portering is demanding work, and many porters carry loads for multiple trekkers, so having one person dedicated to me made a big difference. It allowed me to move efficiently and even fit in short trail runs in village stops.
Efficiency and extras: On two occasions we combined trekking stages and used the extra time for unique side experiences along the route. Those additions became some of the most memorable parts of the journey.
Safety and altitude: Bibek’s pacing, hydration reminders, and daily checkpoints kept me safe and strong. We climbed gradually, slept low when needed, and pushed higher only when conditions were right. I never felt rushed, only well guided and confident.
Bottom line: If you are unsure, go with a trusted company, book a private guide, ask for Bibek if possible, and hire a porter. The logistics become simple, the food stays safe, the weather works in your favor, and what could be just a great trek turns into something truly unforgettable.
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We just completed a 12-day trek through the Annapurna Circuit, and having Hari as our guide made the experience truly unforgettable! From start to finish, he went above and beyond to ensure we had the best possible time.
Hari was incredibly helpful and always made sure we felt comfortable and well-prepared. He took us on extra hikes at our request, accommodated our spontaneous plans, and was always clear about which costs were included and which were optional add-ons. This level of honesty and transparency made everything so easy and stress-free.
What really stood out was Hari’s energy and consistently positive attitude. He was not only friendly and approachable but also very attentive to our well-being. Both my girlfriend and I got sick during the trek, and Hari’s calm, careful approach made a huge difference. He ensured we had the right medications and took every necessary precaution to keep us safe and healthy. His experience and attention to the acclimatization process gave us real confidence as we gained altitude.
Toward the end of the trek, our group chose to skip the final hike from Muktinath to Jomsom. Hari quickly arranged a flight from Jomsom to Pokhara and even booked a hotel for us—all at no extra cost. He also made sure we had the best available rooms at each stop, which made a long and sometimes challenging journey much more comfortable.
Hari’s passion for guiding and his genuine care for his clients shone through every single day. We couldn’t have asked for a better guide and would highly recommend him to anyone looking to experience the Annapurna Circuit.
Our porters—both named Ram—were also fantastic. They greeted us each day with smiles and made sure our gear was always waiting for us at the next stop.
Thank you to Hari and the Rams for making this trek truly special!
We just finished the classic Annapurna Circuit trek with our amazing team! Our guide Arjun, and assistant porters Bashu and Pradib did an incredible job taking care of us throughout the entire journey. We felt comfortable, seen, supported—and had so much fun. The entire experience felt very safe.
As a group, we decided to change the final section of the route due to three long trekking days along the road. It turned out to be the best decision, and Arjun quickly created a new plan for us. His flexibility was simply amazing.
Arjun is the funniest, most positive, and sweetest guide ever. He always made sure we were walking with a smile—and usually a little laugh too. I personally had a tough time with blisters, hip pain, and altitude sickness. Arjun stayed upbeat and helped me every step of the way. He even lent me his shoes, walked at a slow pace with me, and made sure I was okay when I got sick. He explained everything in detail, and his care and attentiveness made a huge difference.
This entire trek was an incredible experience, and I 100% recommend both the trip and this team.
It wouldn’t have been the same without these amazing guys!
Nepal Hiking Team (NHT) has earned an outstanding reputation for organizing challenging treks like the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake. Reviews from past trekkers consistently highlight the company's exceptional organization, experienced guides, and genuine care for clients. One traveler who completed this exact route noted: "I just finished a three-week adventure in Nepal focused on the Annapurna Circuit, including Tilicho Lake and the Thorong-La Pass. I went solo with a licensed guide, Bibek, and a porter, and it was the best decision I could have made. We reached Thorong-La with perfect weather and not a single day felt wasted."
NHT provides experienced, licensed guides who are trained in altitude sickness management, route mastery, and emergency response. Guides like Bibek, Bishal, Prakash, Arjun, and Hari are praised for their deep knowledge of the region, flexibility, and constant attention to trekkers' well-being. One trekker described their guide's approach: "Bibek’s pacing, hydration reminders, and daily checkpoints kept me safe and strong. We climbed gradually, slept low when needed, and pushed higher only when conditions were right. I never felt rushed, only well guided and confident." The company also provides a comprehensive medical kit, oxygen monitoring, and ensures proper acclimatization days are built into the itinerary.
Travelers consistently praise NHT's professionalism, food safety practices, and the quality of guides and porters. One review highlighted: "Bibek quietly inspected kitchens, looked at storage and cooking practices, and always guided me toward hot, fresh, and safe meals, which mattered a lot at higher altitudes." Another trekker noted: "Our guide, Bishal, and his incredible team deserve special recognition. Bishal’s deep knowledge of the region, warm personality, and constant attention to our comfort made the trek even more enjoyable." The company's flexibility in adjusting itineraries and arranging alternatives when needed is also frequently mentioned as a standout quality.
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a Nepal Hiking Team representative will welcome you and transfer you privately to your 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu. This airport transfer is included in the package. After check-in, you will have a briefing about the trip details. Day 1 has no scheduled activities, allowing you to rest and prepare for the trek. The package includes two nights' accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu.
The Nepal entry visa is not included in the package cost. You can obtain a tourist visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. A multiple-entry tourist visa valid for 30 days costs US $40 (or equivalent foreign currency). A 90-day visa costs US $100. You will need to bring two passport-size photos and have your passport ready. For this 16-day trek (plus possible acclimatization and buffer days), the 30-day visa is sufficient. The visa process is straightforward with clear signage at the airport.
You need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card. NHT arranges all necessary paperwork and permits as part of the package. You are asked to bring 3 passport-sized photographs for these permits. The cost of permits is included in "All necessary paperwork and permits including the ACAP and others." Your guide will carry the permits and handle any checkpoints along the trail.
You can book by filling out the inquiry form on the Nepal Hiking Team website or by contacting them directly via email. A deposit (typically 20–30% of the total package cost) is required to confirm your booking. The minimum group size is 2 persons, though solo trekkers are welcome with a single supplement. NHT accepts credit cards, bank transfers, and PayPal. After booking, you'll receive a confirmation, packing list, and pre-trip information. The company offers scheduled group departure dates as well as private trek options.
NHT accepts major credit cards, wire transfers, and online payments. The package includes: all airport/hotel transfers; two nights in Kathmandu and one night in Pokhara with breakfast at 3-star hotels; full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) with tea/coffee during the trek; best available twin-sharing lodge accommodation; all ground transportation (Kathmandu to trailhead, Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus); an experienced English-speaking guide and porter (2 trekkers:1 porter) with all their expenses; down jacket, sleeping bag, duffel bag, t-shirt, cap, and trekking map (jacket and sleeping bag to be returned); all permits (ACAP, etc.); a comprehensive medical kit; and all government taxes. Exclusions are: meals not specified (mainly in Kathmandu and Pokhara); travel insurance (mandatory); international airfare; Nepal entry visa; hot showers during the trek; cold drinks (water, soda, etc.); personal trekking equipment; WiFi internet during the trek; and tips for staff and driver.
Yes, solo trekkers are welcome. The minimum group size is 2 persons, so solo travelers may either join an existing group departure or pay a single supplement for a private trek. Many solo trekkers opt for a private guide and porter for personalized attention. One solo trekker who completed this route noted: "I went solo with a licensed guide, Bibek, and a porter, and it was the best decision I could have made." The private arrangement allows for flexibility in pace and daily itinerary adjustments based on your preferences.
The package includes: private vehicle transfer from Kathmandu to Dharapani (with a note that road construction may extend the drive to 11–12 hours); local jeep from Beshisahar to Syange as needed; and a tourist bus from Pokhara back to Kathmandu (approximately 7–8 hours). Alternatively, you can opt for a domestic flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu for an additional USD 90 per person, which saves time and avoids the long drive. The package also includes a jeep transfer from Ulleri to Pokhara after the trek (Day 15).
The package notes that there has been extensive road construction on the Prithvi Highway (Kathmandu to Pokhara), causing traffic congestion. The journey that used to take 6–7 hours now takes roughly 8–9 hours. The initial drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani on Day 2 is a long 11–12 hour scenic drive through Nepal's countryside. The drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu on Day 16 is approximately 7–8 hours by tourist bus. If you prefer to avoid the long drives, the optional Pokhara–Kathmandu flight is recommended (USD 90, 25 minutes).
Internal flights are not included in the base package but are available as an optional upgrade. The package states: "Instead of driving from Pokhara to Kathmandu, you can opt for domestic flights. The ride usually takes 8-9 hours or more, depending upon the traffic, and can get exhausting. The flight is 25 minutes on-air, and the additional cost is USD 90.00 per person." Some groups also choose to fly from Jomsom to Pokhara to shorten the trek, which can be arranged with your guide at additional cost.
This trek is rated "Strenuous." It involves 16 days of trekking with daily walking times ranging from 3 to 8 hours, reaching a maximum altitude of 5,416m at Thorong La Pass. The route includes steep ascents, narrow paths in landslide-prone areas (the trail to Tilicho Base Camp is described as "steep and physically strenuous, walking on narrow paths in a loose scree and landslide-prone area"), and high-altitude sections. The itinerary includes an acclimatization day in Manang (Day 6) to help trekkers adjust to the altitude. Previous trekking experience and excellent physical fitness are strongly recommended.
This trek is not recommended for complete beginners. The combination of high altitude (above 5,000m), long walking days, and challenging terrain requires prior trekking experience and excellent physical preparation. However, trekkers with some high-altitude experience or those who have completed other multi-day treks can manage with proper acclimatization and a good guide. The package advises: "You need to be reasonably healthy and fit to complete this tour. The trip involves easy walking on flat surfaces and stair climbing. If suffering from respiratory or cardiac illness, do consult your doctor before booking this trip." Many trekkers prepare with cardio training, strength exercises, and practice hikes before attempting this route.
The highest point is Thorong La Pass at 5,416m (17,769 ft). Tilicho Lake is at 4,949m. The itinerary includes a dedicated acclimatization day in Manang (Day 6, 3,570m) with a side hike to Gangapurna Lake and local villages. The package notes: "This day is set aside for acclimatization to the higher altitude." Your guide will monitor your oxygen levels and pace the ascent gradually. The recommended strategy is "climb high, sleep low," which is practiced throughout the trek. The day before crossing Thorong La, you stay at Thorong Phedi (4,600m) rather than High Camp to ensure better sleep and acclimatization.
Your guide is trained in altitude sickness recognition and first aid. The package includes "a comprehensive medical kit" and guides carry pulse oximeters to monitor oxygen saturation. The itinerary builds in acclimatization days and a gradual ascent profile. The Himalayan Rescue Association has a clinic in Manang where trekkers can receive medical checks. One trekker described: "Bibek’s pacing, hydration reminders, and daily checkpoints kept me safe and strong. We climbed gradually, slept low when needed, and pushed higher only when conditions were right." In case of emergency, helicopter evacuation can be arranged (travel insurance must cover this).
Experienced guides like Bibek are praised for their attention to food safety. One review noted: "Bibek quietly inspected kitchens, looked at storage and cooking practices, and always guided me toward hot, fresh, and safe meals, which mattered a lot at higher altitudes." Guides also recommend a "smart nutrition plan" focusing on cooked and boiled meals with plenty of protein and fiber, and suggest local remedies like garlic soup for altitude adjustment. The package includes full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) with tea/coffee during the trek, ensuring you have consistent nutrition.
NHT provides one porter for every two trekkers (2:1 ratio). Porters carry your main luggage (typically 10–12 kg per trekker), allowing you to trek with a light daypack. Past trekkers praise porters for their hard work and friendliness. One review stated: "Our porters were the friendliest and the hardest-working people I have ever met. Despite the language barrier, we managed to play cards and still became friends." Guides are licensed, English-speaking, and experienced on the Annapurna Circuit. Many trekkers recommend hiring a private guide and porter for personalized support.
Essential items: sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with good ankle support; moisture-wicking base layers (tops and bottoms); insulating mid-layers (fleece or down jacket); waterproof/windproof outer shell; warm hat, gloves, and neck gaiter for high-altitude sections; trekking pants (quick-dry); comfortable camp shoes/sandals; and multiple pairs of hiking socks. For the high-altitude sections (Thorong La, Tilicho Lake), temperatures can drop well below freezing, so a high-quality down jacket is essential. NHT provides a down jacket and sleeping bag for the trek (to be returned after completion).
NHT provides: a down jacket, four-season sleeping bag, Nepal Hiking Team duffel bag, t-shirt, cap, and trekking map. The down jacket and sleeping bag are to be returned after the trek. You are responsible for your personal trekking equipment: hiking boots, daypack, trekking poles, water bottles, personal medications, and clothing layers. The duffel bag is used for the porter to carry your main gear, while you carry a daypack with essentials for the day's walk.
The trail to Tilicho Base Camp and Tilicho Lake involves walking on "narrow paths in a loose scree and landslide-prone area." Good traction on your boots is critical. Trekking poles are highly recommended for stability. Gaiters can help keep scree out of your boots. Sun protection is essential at high altitude: SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses with UV protection, and a wide-brimmed hat. A reusable water bottle with insulation is useful to prevent water from freezing in cold sections.
Accommodation during the trek is in "best available twin-sharing room for accommodation during the trek" at local guesthouses (tea houses/lodges). These are basic but comfortable, with shared bathrooms in many locations. At higher elevations (Thorong Phedi, Yak Kharka), facilities are more basic. The package includes twin-sharing rooms; single rooms may be available for an additional cost depending on lodge capacity. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you stay at 3-star category hotels with breakfast included.
WiFi is available in many villages along the Annapurna Circuit, but it is not included in the package and typically costs extra (per device or per hour). Mobile network coverage (Ncell) is available in lower elevations but becomes unreliable above Manang. Your guide will have a mobile phone for emergencies. The package explicitly excludes "WI-Fi internet during the trek." Many trekkers embrace the digital detox and use the opportunity to disconnect.
Most guesthouses along the trail have electricity available for charging, usually with a fee (around USD 1–3 per charge). Power outages can occur, especially at higher elevations. Carrying a high-capacity power bank is strongly recommended to ensure your devices stay charged for photos and communication. The package does not include charging fees; these are paid directly to the lodge owners.
The package includes "full board meals with tea/coffee (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek." This means from Day 2 (Dharapani) through Day 14 (Ghorepani), all your main meals are covered. In Kathmandu (two nights) and Pokhara (one night), only breakfast is included; lunches and dinners in cities are at your own expense. The package also notes that "hot showers during the trek" are not included and typically cost extra at lodges.
Lodges along the trail offer a mix of Nepali, Tibetan, and international dishes. Common options include dal bhat (rice and lentils), momos (dumplings), noodles, pasta, porridge, eggs, bread, and soups. At higher altitudes, the menu becomes more limited and prices increase. Your guide can recommend safe, nutritious options. Many trekkers appreciate dal bhat as it is hearty, easily digestible, and often comes with unlimited refills, providing good energy for trekking.
Bottled water is available but expensive and contributes to plastic waste. The package excludes "all kinds of cold drinks e.g. water, coke, fanta, juice, etc." The recommended approach is to bring a reusable water bottle and use water purification tablets or a filter. Most lodges sell boiled water for a small fee, which is safer and more economical. Your guide can advise on water sources and purification methods. Staying well-hydrated is crucial at high altitude; aim for 3–4 liters per day.
Yes, the package description states: "If the above Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake itinerary does not meet your needs, we can design individualized travel plans based on your preferences and specifications." You can request modifications such as adding rest days, adjusting the pace, including side trips, or combining the trek with other activities. Private treks offer maximum flexibility. As one trekker noted, their guide "adjusted our daily routes based on my energy and preferences" and "on two occasions we combined trekking stages and used the extra time for unique side experiences along the route."
The tour is available as group joining on scheduled departure dates (which can be more economical) or as a private trek for your party. The per-person cost is lower when more travelers share the guide and porter costs. The minimum group size is 2 persons. Solo trekkers pay a higher rate due to single room occupancy and exclusive guide/porter services. Many solo trekkers opt for a private guide and porter for the personalized experience, as highlighted in reviews.
Tipping is not included in the package and is customary for good service. A common guideline is 10–15% of the total trek cost shared among guide, porters, and driver, or approximately US $10–15 per day for the guide, US $5–10 per day per porter, and US $5–8 per day for the driver. However, tips are at your discretion based on your satisfaction. Cash in USD or Nepalese Rupees is acceptable. Your guide can advise on local norms, and if you provide a combined tip, the guide will distribute it to the team.
Tilicho Lake, at 4,949m (16,237 ft), is often referred to as one of the highest lakes in the world. It holds significant religious importance for Hindus, as it is mentioned in the Ramayana. The package notes: "In the Ramayana, the holy book of the Hindus, it is written that a sacred sage, Kak Bhusundi, shared the events of Ramayana with Garuda, the King of Birds. Hence, the holy is scared and regarded highly by all." The trek to Tilicho Lake involves a challenging side trip from the main Annapurna Circuit, with a demanding trail through landslide-prone areas. The lake itself offers "peace and tranquility" and stunning photography opportunities.
The trail from Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp is described as "relatively steep and physically strenuous, it could be exhausting as we will have to walk on narrow paths in a loose scree and landslide-prone area. Our trail goes through the middle of the landslide area, where we can see impressive rock formations along the trail." The hike from Base Camp to Tilicho Lake and back to Siri Kharka on Day 9 is a 7–8 hour day covering 15–16 km. Good physical condition, sturdy boots, and trekking poles are essential for this section.
Muktinath Temple (3,800m) is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists. It is one of the 108 Vishnu temples and features 108 water spouts and eternal flames burning from natural gas. The package highlights: "It is a special place and home to many ethnic Tibetans and devout Buddhists." After crossing Thorong La Pass, you descend to Muktinath on Day 12 and stay overnight there. The temple adds a profound cultural and spiritual dimension to the trek, and many trekkers participate in rituals or simply enjoy the serene atmosphere.