The full Circuit plus Tilicho Lake (4,919 m) — the Annapurna experience with nothing left out.
This 15-day itinerary is the definitive Annapurna Circuit — enhanced with the spectacular Tilicho Lake extension and paced specifically for safe acclimatization across two weeks of high-altitude trekking. Beginning at Jagat and finishing in Pokhara, the route combines the classic Marsyangdi River valley approach with the remote Tilicho Lake side trek before tackling the legendary Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) and descending through the extraordinary Kali Gandaki gorge.
Unlike shorter or abbreviated versions of this circuit, this itinerary includes a full acclimatization day in Manang (Day 6), a dedicated overnight at Tilicho Base Camp (Day 8) before the pre-dawn lake ascent, and a strategic rest day structure that allows the body to adapt safely to altitudes above 4,000 m and 5,000 m. The trek finishes with the descending drama of Muktinath, the medieval Mustang villages, the Tatopani hot springs, and Pokhara's lakeside setting.
Trail gallery
Drive: 6–7 hrs from Kathmandu | Altitude: 1,300 m | Overnight: Jagat
Depart Kathmandu early for the scenic drive to Jagat — your gateway to the Annapurna Circuit.
Trek: 6–7 hrs | Altitude: 1,960 m | Overnight: Dharapani
Begin your first full day of trekking through the dramatic Marsyangdi River gorge.
Trek: 5–6 hrs | Altitude: 2,670 m | Overnight: Chame
A steady climb through fragrant pine and oak forests leads to Chame — the administrative headquarters of Manang District.
Trek: 5 hrs | Altitude: 3,300 m | Overnight: Upper Pisang
One of the most scenic days of the entire circuit. Take the upper route through the hilltop villages of Ghyaru and Ngawal — both with outstanding views of the Annapurna range and Pisang Peak.
Trek: 5–6 hrs | Altitude: 3,540 m | Overnight: Manang
Descend to the valley floor before making your way to Manang — the largest village in the Manang District and the primary acclimatization hub of the Annapurna Circuit.
Altitude: 3,540 m | Rest Day | Optional Hikes
A crucial rest and acclimatization day at Manang. The rule of altitude trekking — climb high, sleep low — applies here.
Trek: 4–5 hrs | Altitude: 4,060 m | Overnight: Shree Kharka
Leave the main Annapurna Circuit trail and begin the gradual climb toward the Tilicho Lake side route.
Trek: 3–4 hrs | Altitude: 4,150 m | Overnight: Tilicho Base Camp
A shorter trekking day to conserve energy for the early-morning summit push to Tilicho Lake.
Early Start: 3–4 AM | Round Trip: 6–7 hrs | Max Altitude: 4,919 m
The highlight of the entire side trek. An early pre-dawn departure is essential to reach Tilicho Lake (4,919 m) before afternoon winds develop.
Trek: 5–6 hrs | Altitude: 4,050 m | Overnight: Yak Kharka
Rejoin the main Annapurna Circuit trail from Shree Kharka, ascending gradually to Yak Kharka — a small settlement sitting at 4,050 m and one of the last teahouse stops before Thorong La Pass.
Trek: 3–4 hrs | Altitude: 4,540 m | Overnight: Thorong Phedi
A deliberately short and easy trekking day to ensure you arrive at Thorong Phedi in good shape for the major Thorong La crossing the following morning.
Trek: 10–12 hrs | Start: 2–3 AM | Max Altitude: 5,416 m | Overnight: Muktinath
The epic centrepiece of the Annapurna Circuit — one of the great high-altitude crossings in Himalayan trekking.
Trek: 5–6 hrs | Altitude: 2,670 m | Overnight: Marpha
Descend through the arid, otherworldly landscapes of the Kali Gandaki — the world's deepest gorge.
Trek: 6–7 hrs | Altitude: 1,190 m | Overnight: Tatopani
A long and rewarding descent through dramatically changing landscapes — from the arid Mustang plateau through narrow gorges and into increasingly lush subtropical forest.
Trek / Jeep: 5–6 hrs | Altitude: 822 m | End of Trek
The final stage of your 15-day journey. Trek or take a jeep ride down through tropical vegetation to Beni and then on to Pokhara.
| Permit Type | Cost (NPR) | Obtained From |
|---|---|---|
| Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) | NPR 3,000 / person | NTB Office or through your agency |
| TIMS Card (with agency) | NPR 1,000 / person | Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) |
| TIMS Card (independent trekker) | NPR 2,000 / person | Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) |
| Trek Duration | 15 Days / 14 Nights |
| Trek Grade | Strenuous |
| Maximum Altitude | 5,416 m (Thorong La Pass) |
| High Lake Altitude | 4,919 m (Tilicho Lake) |
| Trek Start | Jagat (via Kathmandu drive) |
| Trek End | Pokhara |
| Best Season | Spring (Mar–May) & Autumn (Sep–Nov) |
| Accommodation | Teahouses / Lodges |
| Meals on Trek | Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner |
| Daily Walking | 4–12 hrs (varies by day) |
| Required Permits | ACAP + TIMS Card |
| Minimum Age | 14+ Years |
Read before you go
Key route details for timing, cash, safety and comfort on this trek.
Good physical fitness is essential — begin a training programme at least 8 weeks before departure
Travel insurance covering emergency helicopter evacuation is mandatory. Carry proof at all times
Never push through altitude sickness symptoms — descend immediately if severe AMS develops
Always start early for Day 9 (Tilicho Lake) and Day 12 (Thorong La) — afternoon conditions are dangerous
Nights above 4,000 m can reach −10°C or below — a high-quality sleeping bag is essential
Tilicho Base Camp teahouses are extremely basic — prepare for very simple conditions
The itinerary may need adjustment due to weather, trail conditions, or individual pace — flexibility is key
Tipping is customary: USD 12–15/day for guide; USD 7–10/day for porter
Carry reusable water bottles — avoid single-use plastics throughout the trek
Last reliable ATMs: Besisahar and Chame. Carry sufficient NPR cash for the full 15 days
