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Annapurna-Tilicho-Thorong Pass Trek
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Annapurna-Tilicho-Thorong Pass Trek

Annapurna-Tilicho-Thorong Pass Trek

Country

Nepal

Duration

11 days

Max Altitude

4920

Group Size

2 - 15 Person

Difficulty

moderate

Best Seasons

Spring and Autumn

Description

The Annapurna-Tilicho-Thorong Pass Trek is an adventurous 11-day journey that offers one of the most scenic and diverse high-altitude trekking experiences in Nepal. Starting from the lowland subtropical regions of Besisahar, the trail ascends through varied ecological zones, from alpine woodlands and isolated Tibetan-style villages to the arid landscapes of the trans-Himalayan region near Manang and Mustang.

A major highlight of this trek is the visit to Tilicho Lake (4,920m), one of the highest lakes in the world, nestled beneath the towering glaciers of Tilicho Peak. The route also crosses Thorong La Pass (5,416m), the highest point of the trek, offering dramatic panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The trail passes through culturally rich villages like Pisang and Manang, providing deep insight into traditional Buddhist practices and high-altitude lifestyles.

The trek concludes in the sacred village of Muktinath, a pilgrimage site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists, before continuing to Jomsom and flying back to Pokhara. This itinerary is designed for trekkers who want a compact but intense high-mountain adventure, blending epic landscapes, Himalayan wilderness, and cultural richness in under two weeks.

Travel Notes

Best Time to Trek

  • Spring (March–May): Stable weather, pleasant temperatures, and blooming rhododendron forests.

  • Autumn (September–November): Excellent visibility, crisp air, and favorable conditions for high pass crossings.

Permits Required

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

  • Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card

Experience & Preparation

  • Previous trekking experience recommended

  • Good physical fitness and acclimatization plan essential

  • Thorong La and Tilicho Lake sections require endurance and readiness for altitude

Accommodation & Trekking Style

  • Tea-house (lodge) trek with basic but cozy accommodation along the trail

  • All meals provided during trekking days (excluding Kathmandu and Pokhara)

Itineraries

Depart Kathmandu early morning by local bus for Besisahar. The journey winds through Trishuli and Marsyangdi river valleys, terraced fields, and hill villages. After about 7–8 hours of scenic driving, arrive at Besisahar, the gateway to the Annapurna Circuit. Overnight in the lodge.

 

Today’s trek follows the high route via the old village of Ngawal. This 7-hour hike offers stunning panoramas of Annapurna II, III, IV, and Tilicho Peak. The trail traverses alpine meadows and ancient monasteries before reaching the bustling village of Manang. Overnight in the lodge.

 

Spend the day acclimatizing in Manang. Optional short hikes to Bhojo Gompa or Gangapurna Lake (2–3 hours round-trip) help with altitude adjustment. Enjoy views of the Chulu peaks and interact with the friendly locals. Overnight in the lodge.

 

Depart Manang on a narrow trail leading through steep rock formations and landslide zones toward Tilicho Base Camp. After 7 hours of trekking, arrive at the camp nestled beneath Tilicho Peak. Overnight in a basic lodge.

 

Start early and hike for about 2.5 hours to reach Tilicho Lake, crystal clear and surrounded by ice walls and high ridges. Spend time admiring this sacred lake before retracing your steps back to Base Camp (2.5 hours). Overnight at Base Camp.

 

Begin the day with a rugged 7-hour jeep ride along the Marsyangdi River gorge. The road ascends dramatically from subtropical valleys to pine and fir forests as you reach Pisang in the Manang district. Overnight in the lodge.

 

Climb out of the Tilicho Valley and reconnect with the main Annapurna trail near Yak Kharka. The 7 to 8-hour trek takes you through windy, exposed terrain. Overnight in the lodge.

 

Ascend steadily through high alpine terrain to Thorong Phedi, then make the final steep climb to High Camp. The 5-hour trek is demanding but offers dramatic views of snow-capped ridges and the pass ahead. Overnight in the lodge.

 

Start before dawn and climb to the summit of Thorong La (5,416m), the highest point of the trek. After enjoying the views, descend steeply to the sacred temple town of Muktinath (5–6 hours). From there, take a 1.5-hour jeep ride to Jomsom. Overnight in the lodge.

 

Board an early morning flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. After arrival, enjoy lunch and spend the afternoon sightseeing at the World Peace Pagoda, Davis Falls, or Fewa Lake. Overnight at hotel.

Return to Kathmandu via tourist bus, a scenic 6–7 hour ride through mid-hill landscapes and along rivers. Transfer to the hotel and conclude the journey.

 

Cost Includes

Accommodation & Meals

  • Tea-house lodging during the trek

  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during trekking days

  • 1 night hotel in Pokhara with breakfast

  • Standard lodge at Tilicho Base Camp and Thorong High Camp

Permits & Documentation

  • Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) 

  • Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card

Transportation

  • Local bus: Kathmandu to Besisahar

  • Jeep: Besisahar to Pisang and Muktinath to Jomsom

  • Domestic flight: Jomsom to Pokhara

  • Tourist bus: Pokhara to Kathmandu

Support Staff

  • Experienced English-speaking licensed trekking guide

  • Porters (1 porter for 2 trekkers) with insurance and proper equipment

  • Guide and porter insurance, food, accommodation, salary

Safety & Logistics

  • First Aid kit carried by the guide

  • Trekking map and route briefing

  • All government taxes and applicable service charges

Cost Excludes

Meals & Accommodation

  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara (except breakfast)

  • Snacks, bottled water, soft drinks, energy bars, alcohol

Personal Equipment

  • Sleeping bags, down jackets (can be rented)

  • Trekking gear (boots, poles, headlamp, backpack, etc.)

Travel Insurance & Health

  • Travel and evacuation insurance (mandatory)

  • Medical expenses, medications, and vaccinations

Miscellaneous

  • Nepal visa fee (USD 30 for 15 days)

  • Tips for guide and porters (expected)

  • Extra costs due to unforeseen circumstances (landslides, flight delays, etc.)

  • Any services not explicitly mentioned in the inclusion list

 

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