Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, travelers are warmly welcomed by their guide and driver. After clearing immigration and collecting luggage, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in the city, where you can rest, refresh, and recover from your international flight. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, the main tourist hub, or enjoy a traditional Nepali meal at a local restaurant.

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is a fascinating city that blends ancient culture with modern life. You’ll notice the bustling markets, colorful temples, prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and historic architecture as you walk through its streets. This day is primarily for adjusting to the city’s rhythm, resting, and preparing for your upcoming trekking adventure or sightseeing tour. Your guide will also provide a briefing on the trek ahead, including tips on packing, acclimatization, and local customs. Overnight stay is at a comfortable hotel in Kathmandu, offering a convenient base to begin your Nepal journey.

The day begins with an early morning departure from Kathmandu, heading northwest toward the Manang district, the starting point of the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek. The road gradually climbs from the fertile Kathmandu Valley, passing through lush farmland, small towns, and bustling local markets, giving trekkers a glimpse of Nepalese rural life. As you leave the valley floor, the scenery transitions into hilly terrain with pine forests, terraced fields, and river valleys, offering continuous photography opportunities and fresh mountain air.

The route follows the Marsyangdi River, winding through gorges, riverbanks, and small suspension bridges, perfect spots for a short break or photo stop. Along the way, you’ll pass charming villages such as Besisahar, Bhulbhule, and Jagat, where stone houses, prayer flags, and mani walls reflect the Tibetan-Buddhist influence of the region. Local tea houses along the route provide opportunities for a hot beverage or quick snack, giving trekkers a taste of Nepali hospitality even before the trek begins.

Arriving in Dharapani (1,860m) by late afternoon, trekkers are welcomed into comfortable lodges with warm meals, cozy rooms, and stunning valley views. Dharapani serves as the launching point for the Annapurna Circuit, allowing trekkers to rest, acclimatize slightly, and prepare for the first day of trekking. The combination of river valleys, forested hills, and cultural villages makes this drive not just a transfer, but a scenic introduction to the Annapurna region.

Leaving Dharapani in the morning, the trek begins along the Marsyangdi River valley, a picturesque trail lined with terraced fields, pine forests, and small streams. Almost immediately, trekkers notice the stunning contrast between the lush green hills and the towering Annapurna peaks in the background, including glimpses of Manaslu and Lamjung Himal on clear days. The trail is well-defined and follows stone steps and dirt paths, winding through small hamlets and charming villages where locals practice traditional farming.

Along the way, trekkers cross wooden suspension bridges over the Marsyangdi River, offering excellent photo opportunities of cascading waters, forested cliffs, and traditional villages. Midway, tea houses provide stops for hot drinks, local snacks, and short rest, while the surrounding forest is often alive with chirping birds, rhododendron blooms (in spring), and pine scents, making every step enjoyable. As the trail ascends gradually, panoramic views of the Marsyangdi valley and distant snow-capped peaks reward trekkers with constant motivation. By afternoon, you arrive in Chame (2,670m), the district headquarters of Manang, a bustling yet peaceful village where lodges provide warm meals, cozy rooms, and spectacular mountain views. Staying overnight in Chame also allows trekkers to adjust to higher altitudes, preparing for the steeper sections ahead.

Leaving Chame in the morning, the trail begins with a gradual ascent through terraced fields, pine forests, and small streams, following the Marsyangdi River valley. Almost immediately, trekkers notice the dramatic Himalayan landscape unfolding, with Manaslu, Annapurna II, and Pisang Peak in the distance. The path is well-marked, weaving past traditional stone houses, mani walls, and prayer flags, which offer a glimpse into the Tibetan-Buddhist culture of the Manang region.

Along the way, trekkers cross suspension bridges over small glacial rivers, providing excellent photo opportunities of the valley below and the surrounding cliffs. The trail passes through the small hamlet of Upper Chame, where local villagers cultivate barley, buckwheat, and potatoes on terraced fields, giving a real sense of daily Himalayan life. Midway, tea houses offer hot meals, snacks, and rest stops, with views of Pisang Peak looming above. As you approach Pisang village, the trail opens into a sun-drenched plateau with panoramic views of the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges, making the arrival in Pisang especially rewarding. Lodges in Pisang offer comfortable rooms, hot showers (when available), and meals with traditional Nepali flavors, providing a perfect overnight stay for acclimatization and rest before the steeper trails ahead.

Leaving Pisang in the morning, the trail immediately begins a gradual but steady ascent, winding through terraced fields, scattered pine forests, and traditional stone houses. The village itself is divided into Lower Pisang and Upper Pisang, and as you climb higher, trekkers are treated to uninterrupted panoramic views of the Manaslu and Annapurna ranges, including the impressive Pisang Peak and Annapurna II. The trail is well-marked and mostly dirt paths, occasionally crossing small streams and wooden suspension bridges, giving trekkers a sense of adventure while staying safe.

Along the way, the trek passes through small, quiet hamlets, where local Gurung and Tibetan-influenced villagers cultivate barley and potatoes on steep terraced fields. Mani walls and prayer flags line the trail, offering both cultural immersion and striking photographic opportunities. Midway, tea houses provide an ideal spot for rest, hot drinks, and Nepali snacks, while enjoying views of the Marsyangdi Valley far below. The approach to Ghyaru involves a short steep climb, rewarding trekkers with an elevated viewpoint overlooking Pisang village and the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Lodges in Ghyaru provide warm meals, cozy rooms, and sweeping Himalayan vistas, making it an excellent location for acclimatization and rest before heading toward the higher Manang region.

Leaving Ghyaru in the morning, the trek begins with a gentle descent through terraced fields, scattered pine and juniper forests, and traditional stone houses, providing trekkers with a comfortable start to the day while enjoying breathtaking scenery. As the trail progresses, it winds along the Marsyangdi Valley, offering stunning panoramic views of Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, Lamjung Himal, and Gangapurna. Small streams cross the trail at intervals, sometimes requiring brief fords or wooden plank crossings, which add to the adventure without being technically difficult.

Along the route, trekkers pass Upper Ghyaru and Braka, small hamlets where local villagers grow barley, potatoes, and vegetables on steep terraces. Prayer flags and mani walls line the trail, providing both cultural insight and excellent photography spots. Tea houses along the way offer hot beverages, local snacks, and rest stops, perfect for acclimatization. The final approach to Manang village descends slightly into a broad valley surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, including Gangapurna and Tilicho Peak. Manang is the largest village in the region, featuring a cluster of tea houses, lodges, bakeries, and local shops. Lodges provide comfortable rooms, hot meals, and stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan landscape, making it an ideal place to rest, acclimatize, and prepare for higher-altitude trekking to Tilicho Lake and Thorong La Pass.

Today is a well-deserved rest and acclimatization day in Manang, designed to help trekkers adjust to high altitude before continuing toward Tilicho Lake and Thorong La Pass. Trekkers can stroll around the village, exploring narrow lanes lined with stone houses, prayer flags, mani walls, and monasteries, which provide a glimpse into the Tibetan-influenced culture of the Annapurna region. The fresh mountain air, snow-capped peaks, and peaceful surroundings make Manang a perfect place to relax, enjoy the scenery, and take photos.

For those feeling energetic, a short hike to the nearby Gangapurna Lake or Ice Lake offers gentle elevation gain for acclimatization, combined with spectacular views of Gangapurna, Annapurna III, and Tilicho Peak. Tea houses and lodges in Manang serve hot meals, soups, and traditional Nepali dal bhat, which are ideal for restoring energy and staying hydrated at high altitude. Even simple activities, like walking through local farmland or chatting with villagers, help the body adapt to thinner air, preparing trekkers for the challenging ascent to Tilicho Lake and Thorong La Pass in the coming days.

Leaving Manang in the morning, the trail gradually ascends along a scenic valley lined with terraced fields, grazing yaks, and small streams, offering trekkers a gentle introduction to high-altitude trekking. The path winds past traditional stone villages, prayer flags, and mani walls, giving travelers a real sense of the Tibetan-Buddhist culture of the Annapurna region. Along the way, trekkers are treated to panoramic views of Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak, which dominate the skyline and provide excellent photo opportunities at every turn.

The trail crosses small glacial streams via wooden plank bridges, and the surrounding alpine terrain gradually opens up, revealing meadows dotted with rhododendrons and juniper bushes. Halfway, trekkers may encounter yak herders with their flocks, a classic high-altitude Himalayan sight. Tea houses along the way offer hot beverages, local snacks, and brief rest stops, helping hikers stay energized and acclimatized. Arriving in Siri Kharka (4,000m) by afternoon, trekkers find comfortable lodges with warm meals, cozy rooms, and awe-inspiring views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Staying here is crucial for acclimatization before the ascent to Tilicho Lake, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable trekking experience.

Leaving Siri Kharka early in the morning, the trail begins with a steady ascent through high alpine meadows, dotted with juniper shrubs, moss-covered rocks, and grazing yaks, offering a quintessential Himalayan trekking experience. As you gain altitude, the trail narrows, following the Tilicho Khola, a glacial-fed river that winds its way through dramatic cliffs and snow-capped peaks. Trekkers pass through small moraine-covered ridges and frozen streams, making each step feel like an adventure in a remote and pristine Himalayan wilderness.

Along the way, the scenery becomes increasingly rugged, with towering glaciers, cascading waterfalls, and the jagged peaks of the Annapurna range rising all around. The path crosses a few small wooden suspension bridges over icy streams, offering excellent photography spots of the alpine landscape. Midway, trekkers can pause at a small tea house for hot drinks and local snacks, while soaking in the panoramic views of Tilicho Peak and the surrounding glaciers. By early afternoon, you reach Tilicho Base Camp (4,900m), a high-altitude haven surrounded by towering snow-covered peaks and glacial moraines. Lodges here, though basic due to the altitude, provide warm meals, tea, and rooms for rest, allowing trekkers to relax, acclimatize, and marvel at one of the world’s highest trekking destinations.

Leaving Siri Kharka early in the morning, trekkers begin the challenging but breathtaking ascent to Tilicho Lake, following the Tilicho Khola river valley. The trail gradually climbs through high alpine meadows, moraine slopes, and rocky paths, offering stunning views of the surrounding Annapurna peaks, glaciers, and snowfields. Trekkers pass frozen streams and scattered boulders, which make the journey feel like a true high-altitude adventure. The presence of prayer flags and small stone cairns along the trail adds a cultural touch amidst the rugged wilderness.

As you approach Tilicho Lake (4,919m), the path becomes steeper and more rocky, requiring careful footing on loose gravel and glacial moraine, but the effort is rewarded with the spectacular turquoise waters of one of the world’s highest lakes, framed by towering snow-capped peaks. This serene lake, surrounded by jagged cliffs and icy ridges, offers unforgettable photo opportunities and a profound sense of high Himalayan isolation. After soaking in the scenery and resting, trekkers descend along the same trail back to Siri Kharka, enjoying reversed views of glaciers, meadows, and Tilicho Peak. Tea house stops on the return provide warm drinks, local snacks, and a chance to rest tired legs. Back at Siri Kharka, lodges welcome trekkers with hearty meals, cozy rooms, and a sense of accomplishment, making this high-altitude day a truly memorable part of the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek.

Leaving Siri Kharka in the morning, the trek begins with a gentle ascent along the alpine trail, offering panoramic views of the Annapurna and Manang ranges. The path follows the Marsyangdi River tributaries, winding through rocky ridges, grassy slopes, and small glacial streams. Along the way, trekkers will notice herds of yaks grazing on the high pastures, which is how Yak Kharka gets its name — a classic Himalayan yak grazing plateau. The surrounding terrain features moraines, boulders, and scattered rhododendrons, giving the trail a truly high-altitude adventure feel.

Midway, tea houses provide hot drinks, snacks, and rest, while offering breathtaking views of Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. The trail passes a few small wooden plank bridges over icy streams, allowing trekkers to capture stunning photography of the river valleys below. As you approach Yak Kharka, the trail opens onto a wide alpine pasture with grazing yaks and panoramic peaks on all sides, creating an idyllic high-altitude campsite vibe. Lodges here offer warm meals, cozy rooms, and incredible views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains, making it a perfect spot to rest and acclimatize before the challenging climb toward Thorong La Pass.

Leaving Yak Kharka in the morning, the trail begins a steady, yet manageable ascent through high alpine terrain, marking the final approach to the Thorong La Pass route. The path is dotted with scattered boulders, moraine ridges, and small glacial streams, creating a classic high Himalayan trekking experience. Along the way, trekkers pass sparse alpine pastures, often dotted with grazing yaks, giving a sense of traditional high-altitude life. The panoramic views expand as you gain elevation, revealing Thorang Peak, Annapurna III, and Gangapurna, as well as distant Manang valley peaks.

Midway, trekkers cross a few small wooden bridges over icy glacial streams, providing excellent photo opportunities of the rugged landscape. Tea houses along the trail offer hot drinks, snacks, and rest stops, helping hikers adjust to the thinner air and maintain energy for the next day’s Thorong La Pass crossing. Approaching Thorong Phedi, the trail opens into a small settlement with lodges clustered together, designed to support trekkers on their high-altitude journey. Lodges here provide warm rooms, hot meals, and essential acclimatization advice, making it a strategic overnight stop before the challenging early morning ascent to Thorong La Pass.

Starting before dawn from Thorong Phedi, trekkers begin the final and most challenging ascent to Thorong La Pass, the gateway of the Annapurna Circuit and one of the world’s highest trekking passes. The trail climbs steeply through rocky scree, moraines, and snow patches, with the thin high-altitude air making each step demanding yet exhilarating. Prayer flags flutter in the icy wind, and small stone cairns mark the path, guiding trekkers toward the summit. The panoramic vistas are absolutely breathtaking, with Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Annapurna I, and Tilicho Peak dominating the horizon.

Upon reaching Thorong La Pass (5,416m), trekkers are greeted with a majestic 360° view of the Himalayan ranges—a moment of triumph that is often described as life-changing. After soaking in the scenery and taking photos, the trail begins a long descent toward Muktinath, passing through steep rocky paths, alpine meadows, and cascading glacial streams. Midway, trekkers may stop at small lodges or tea houses for hot drinks and rest. Approaching Muktinath, the trail opens into the Himalayan valley surrounded by rugged cliffs, and the village itself is famous for the Muktinath Temple, a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists, with holy water spouts and golden pagoda-style architecture. Lodges in Muktinath provide comfortable rooms, warm meals, and a perfect end to the high-altitude adventure, giving trekkers time to reflect on the achievement of crossing Thorong La Pass.

Leaving Muktinath in the morning, the trek begins with a gradual descent through the high Mustang valley, surrounded by rugged cliffs, arid landscapes, and snow-capped peaks in the distance. The trail follows the Kali Gandaki River, one of the deepest rivers in the world, offering trekkers breathtaking views of the river gorge and surrounding mountains. Along the way, trekkers will pass small villages with traditional Mustang-style houses, colorful prayer flags, and ancient mani walls, giving a deep cultural insight into the remote Himalayan communities.

The descent becomes more pronounced as you approach Jomsom, with the trail winding along rock-strewn paths, sandy slopes, and terraced farmland. Tea houses along the way offer hot drinks, snacks, and rest stops, perfect for recuperating after the high-altitude Thorong La adventure. Arriving in Jomsom, trekkers find a lively market town with shops, restaurants, and lodges, set against the backdrop of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri peaks. Lodges in Jomsom provide comfortable rooms, hearty meals, and the perfect place to relax, reflecting on the achievement of crossing Thorong La Pass and completing a major section of the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

After completing the Annapurna Circuit trek, trekkers enjoy a short but unforgettable flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, one of Nepal’s most picturesque aerial journeys. As the small aircraft takes off, travelers are treated to stunning views of the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the Mustang valley, and the surrounding snow-capped peaks like Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, and Nilgiri. Flying over remote Himalayan villages, terraced fields, and winding rivers, this journey offers a unique perspective of the Annapurna region that is impossible to experience from the ground.

Landing in Pokhara, trekkers are greeted by the tranquil Phewa Lake, the backdrop of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre ranges, and the city’s relaxed lakeside atmosphere, a stark contrast to the rugged high-altitude trails. Pokhara provides comfortable hotels, local markets, and a variety of dining options, perfect for rest, relaxation, and celebrating the completion of an epic trek. This flight also gives trekkers an opportunity to reflect on the adventure, take photographs of panoramic Himalayan landscapes, and enjoy a moment of accomplishment before the next stage of their journey.

After a well-deserved rest in Pokhara, trekkers board a short flight back to Kathmandu, providing a final aerial view of Nepal’s stunning Himalayan landscape. As the plane takes off, travelers can enjoy sweeping vistas of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre ranges, Phewa Lake, and the lush Pokhara Valley, creating a memorable end to their trek. Flying over rolling hills, rivers, and small villages, the journey offers a unique perspective of Nepal’s diverse terrain, from the high Himalayas to the green mid-hills.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, trekkers are greeted by the bustling city atmosphere, historic architecture, and vibrant culture. Nepal Voyage Treks ensures a comfortable transfer to your hotel, where you can relax and enjoy a farewell dinner, celebrating the successful completion of the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek. This is a perfect opportunity to share memories, photographs, and experiences with fellow trekkers and reflect on the journey through some of Nepal’s most iconic landscapes.

After an epic journey through the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake, it’s time to bid farewell to Nepal. Depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred from your hotel to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu by a comfortable vehicle arranged by Nepal Voyage Treks. On the way, you may reflect on the stunning Himalayan landscapes, the cultural villages, and the unforgettable trekking experiences that have made this journey truly life-changing.

This final day also gives trekkers a moment to shop for souvenirs, take last photographs, and savor the flavors of Nepalese cuisine before departure. Our team ensures that all airport transfers and logistics are smooth, so you can relax and focus on your memories rather than travel stress. As you board your flight, you carry home memories of towering peaks, glacial lakes, high passes, and Himalayan adventure, leaving you with a deep sense of accomplishment and a connection to Nepal’s breathtaking landscapes and warm culture.