The Annapurna Circuit Trek(via Tilicho Lake)

­ 

Your adventure begins with an early morning drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar, a journey that takes about 6-7 hours through scenic countryside and lush green valleys. After reaching Besisahar, you'll transfer to a jeep for a bumpy yet exciting ride to Dharapani, taking another 4-5 hours. You will pass through small villages, waterfalls, and terraced rice fields along the way. The road can be rough and narrow, but the breathtaking views of the mountains and the Marsyangdi River make it worthwhile. You'll arrive in Dharapani, a picturesque village nestled amid the mountains, where you'll spend the night.

The trek from Dharapani to Chame covers a distance of approximately 16 kilometers and takes about 5-6 hours. The trail ascends gradually through dense pine and fir forests, offering stunning views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV. You will cross several suspension bridges and walk alongside the Marsyangdi River, with its turquoise waters contrasting the lush greenery. As you approach Chame, the district headquarters of Manang at 2,710 meters, you'll notice the landscape becoming more rugged and alpine. Chame is known for its hot springs, where you can relax and soothe your muscles after a long day of trekking. 

Today's trek to Pisang takes about 5-6 hours, covering a distance of 13 kilometers. The trail continues through forests and pastures, gradually ascending to higher altitudes. One of the highlights of this section is the spectacular view of Paungda Danda, a massive curved rock face rising 1,500 meters above the river. As you climb higher, you'll see the changing landscape, with fewer trees and more arid terrain. Pisang, located at 3,200 meters, is divided into Lower Pisang and Upper Pisang, offering better views of the Annapurna range. The village is rich in Tibetan culture, with traditional houses, a monastery, and prayer wheels. Spend the night in Pisang, enjoying the serene mountain atmosphere.

The trek from Pisang to Manang takes about 6-7 hours, with a choice between two routes: the lower and upper trails. The upper route, though more challenging, offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna range and the Marsyangdi Valley. The trail passes through the villages of Ghyaru and Ngawal, where you can experience traditional Tibetan culture and hospitality. The lower route is easier, following the valley floor through Humde and Braga. As you approach Manang, the terrain becomes more barren, with the air becoming drier and thinner. Manang, situated at an altitude of 3,540 meters, is a bustling village with shops, cafes, and a vibrant atmosphere. This is an important stop for acclimatization, as you prepare for the higher altitudes ahead.

A rest day in Manang is crucial for acclimatization to prevent altitude sickness. Use this day to explore the village and its surroundings. You can hike to Gangapurna Lake for stunning views of the turquoise glacial lake and the Gangapurna glacier. Another popular option is the hike to the Bhojo Gumba or the higher route to Braga, which offers panoramic views of Annapurna and the Manang Valley. Visiting the Himalayan Rescue Association is also beneficial to learn about altitude sickness and its prevention. Manang has several bakeries and cafes where you can relax and enjoy local delicacies. This day helps your body adjust to the altitude, making the upcoming trek safer and more enjoyable.

­ 

Today we continue our adventure toward Tilicho Lake. Leaving Manang by its western gate, we descend to the river, cross it on the bridge below Khangsar, and ascend the slope to the village, still in the old Tibetan style, and also known as the last village of Nepal. Overnight at guesthouse.

Continuing from Khangsar on a recently constructed path, we pass a Gompa (monastery) up towards a high ridge. At an intersection, we choose between two paths. One maintains the altitude, traversing the slopes towards a narrow valley; the other continues to ascend towards the ridge line. The former is the old path and is much more difficult because of its steepness and screen surface. The latter is the new path that goes a completely different way. We take the new path, reach a high crest, and descend on switchbacks carved out through the scree slopes to a side valley of the main valley. At its bottom is a brook. On the other side is a building known as Tilicho Base Camp (4,200m).

From Manang village, the trail crosses a stream, climbs to the village of Tenki above Manang, and then continues to climb out of the Marshyangdi Valley turning northwest up the valley of Jarsang Khola. The trail follows this valley northward, passing a few pastures, and a scrub of juniper trees, as it steadily gains elevation. Now the trail goes through meadows where horses and yaks graze. After crossing a small river on a wooden bridge, the trail passes an ancient Mani wall in a pleasant meadow and then reaches another small village of Yak Kharka. Overnight at Yak Kharka.

The track descends to cross the river at 4310m we then climb up to Phedi at 4420m. At High Camp on an elevation of 4600m, we recently found some good Guesthouses built. Your overnight stay will be there.

The journey from Phedi “the foot of the hill” or at the foot to the 5416m Thorong La pass, begins the day. We then make the climb steeply which is regularly used and easy to follow. However, the problem may arise due to the altitude and snow. It often causes terrible problems to cross the pass if it is covered by snow. About four hours to climb up to the pass marked by the Chortens and prayer flags. As you reach the top, you are rewarded by the magnificent view from the top. 

The trek from Muktinath to Jomsom offers a captivating journey through the rugged beauty of the Mustang region in Nepal. Starting from Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, the trail winds through arid landscapes, ancient villages, and dramatic cliffsides. Along the way, trekkers are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including the majestic Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri mountains. Passing through charming villages like Kagbeni and Marpha, known for their unique architecture and apple orchards, adds cultural richness to the experience. As the trail descends towards Jomsom, the scenery transforms into a picturesque valley dotted with wind-sculpted rock formations and traditional Tibetan-style houses. Jomsom, the administrative center of the Mustang district, welcomes trekkers with its bustling markets and warm hospitality, making the journey both a visual delight and a cultural immersion.

After getting to Jomsom you have to travel through Tatopani which is a hot spring by driving 7 hours off-road. Stay Overnight in Tatopani to relax in the natural hot spring.

The journey from Tatopani to Pokhara offers a scenic drive through the Himalayan foothills, characterized by lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and winding mountain roads.  The entire journey, spanning approximately 5-6 hours, provides a delightful blend of natural beauty and cultural encounters, making it a memorable drive for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.