A 16-day high-altitude circuit from Kathmandu that reaches Tilicho Lake—the world’s one of highest lakes—through Manang and the Kali Gandaki valley. Expect alpine geology, Tibetan-influenced villages, and variable terrain requiring acclimatization and good boots.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Morning light slices the Annapurna range into layers of rock and ice as a convoy leaves Kathmandu and follows the Marsyangdi River toward the high rainshadow of Manang. By the second day the road narrows, jeeps give way to mule tracks, and the mountain air begins to thin; Tilicho Lake appears after long climbs over yak pastures and moraine slopes, a robin-egg basin cradled beneath roaring ridgelines.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
16 days
Fitness Level
Good aerobic fitness with prior multi-day hiking experience; ability to hike 5–7 hours on uneven terrain at altitude.
Wildlife
History
The circuit follows old trade and pilgrimage routes between the high Tibetan plateau and lower Himalayan valleys; Muktinath is an important shrine for Hindus and Buddhists alike.
Conservation
The Annapurna Conservation Area regulates permits and promotes community-based tourism; practice pack-in-pack-out, avoid single-use plastics, and follow local guidelines for water use and firewood.
Reserve your spot on the 16-Day Annapurna Tilicho Lake Trek from Kathmandu with Pick Up today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize with a rest day
Build in the Manang rest day to reduce altitude sickness risk; move slowly on ascent days and avoid pushing the pace.
Footwear for mixed terrain
Use stiff-soled trekking boots with ankle support for scree, snow and stone steps encountered above 3,500 m.
Water treatment
Carry a reliable filter or purification tablets—water sources are plentiful but not all are safe to drink untreated.
Start early
Begin hikes before mid-morning to avoid afternoon wind and improve chances of clear views at high passes.
Stiff-soled trekking boots
Support and traction on rocky, icy and snowy sections of the circuit.
Midweight down or synthetic jacket
Warmth for high camps and predawn starts; temperatures can drop well below freezing.
fall
Water filter or purification tablets
Treat stream and village water to avoid gastrointestinal illness on remote sections.
Trekking poles
Reduce knee strain on descents and provide stability on scree and snow fields.