Combined Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake

The Annapurna Circuit via Tilicho Lake is a combined high-altitude trek that links the popular Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake (4919m). The route follows the Annapurna Circuit through Chame, Pisang, and Manang before heading to Tilicho Lake.

After trekking to Tilicho Lake from Manang, the journey continues towards Thorang La Pass via Yak Kharka and Thorang Phedi, then connects to Muktinath.

The Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek links both destinations, taking you from the green Marsyangdi Valley to the dry Himalayan landscapes of Manang, the glacial surroundings of Tilicho Lake, and finally across Thorong La into Mustang.

However, adding Tilicho is not simply another viewpoint stop. It involves exposed trails, longer walking days, and careful altitude planning.

The combined Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake is challenging.

Mountain Eco Trails' 14-day itinerary is designed for fit trekkers who want to experience both highlights without following the longer traditional circuit through Tatopani and Ghorepani.

Who can do this combined Annapurna Circuit and Tilicho Lake Trek?

This trek is particularly suitable for:

• Trekkers who have experience at high altitude and want to combine Tilicho Lake and Thorong La.
• Active travellers who can comfortably walk for 5-8 hours on consecutive days.
• Himalayan trekking enthusiasts interested in both Manang's mountain culture and high-altitude landscapes.
• Photographers wanting varied scenery, from green valleys to rocky mountains and glacial lakes.
• Travellers who can accommodate a demanding itinerary and understand that weather or altitude may require changes.

We don't recommend this combined Annapurna Circuit Tilicho Trek 14-day route for completely inexperienced hikers, travellers uncomfortable with exposed paths, or people who need a leisurely pace.

Those who are active beginners can choose the classic 16 Day Annapurna Circuit Trek with a relaxed pace.

Why Combine Tilicho Lake and Thorong La Pass?

Tilicho Lake and Thorong La Pass offer different experiences. Tilicho Lake is surrounded by rocky slopes, glaciers, and high mountains. You will feel remote after crossing Shree Kharka, and the trail becomes narrower and more exposed.

Thorong La, on the other hand, is the main crossing of the Annapurna Circuit. It connects the Manang with Mustang and takes you to Muktinath through the dry, trans-Himalayan landscape.

Combining them makes the trek more varied, but also more demanding.

How the Tilicho Lake connects with the Annapurna Circuit

The Tilicho Trek splits away from the Manang village, which is a major acclimatisation point during the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

The route generally follows:

Manang → Khangsar → Shree Kharka → Tilicho Base Camp → Tilicho Lake → Tilicho Base Camp → Yak Kharka → Thorong Phedi → Thorong La → Muktinath

After visiting the lake, trekkers will next retrace the route back and join the Yak Kharka trail.

However, remember that Tilicho Lake is not directly on the main Annapurna Circuit trail. It is an additional excursion that must be planned before crossing Thorong La.

Travellers who do not want to do the Thorong La Pass and yet want to explore Tilicho Lake can join the Tilicho Lake Trek.

Tilicho Lake Side Trip before Annapurna Circuit Highlights

The Tilicho Lake side trip is the standout experience that transforms the Annapurna Circuit via Tilicho Lake into a true high-altitude adventure. Located at 4,919 meters, Tilicho Lake is known as one of the highest trekking-accessible lakes in the world, where dramatic glacial landscapes and thin mountain air define the journey more than distance alone. Also, you can do the Tilicho Lake Trek if you want to skip the Annapurna Circuit.  

Key highlights:

• Tilicho Lake, at an altitude of 4,919 meters, delivers a high-altitude experience before Thorang La Pass at 5416 meters.
• Famous as one of the highest lakes in the world.
• Moderate to challenging difficulty to reach the Lake.
• The most memorable and rewarding section of the entire Annapurna Circuit

If you want to avoid a side trip to Tilicho Lake, then you can choose the 10-Day Annapurna Circuit Trek.

14-Day Annapurna Circuit Tilicho Trek Itinerary & Route

The ACT with Tilicho Lake Combined itinerary begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Jagat and follows the Annapurna Circuit through Dharapani, Chame, Upper Pisang, and Manang.

From Manang, the route turns towards Tilicho Lake before returning to the Thorong La trail.

Cost of Annapurna Circuit Via Tilicho Lake Trek

The 14-Day Annapurna Circuit Via Tilicho Lake Trek costs start from USD 1099 per person for a single trekker. The price depends on the service you are looking for and the number of pax. Also, the price covers the guide, permit, meals, accommodation, transportation, and other logistics for the trek.

If you are in more than 5 pax in a group then will get a special discount as well. The cost is fair and transparent, which meets the service we offer to our valuable clients. 

Contact us for more details via email or WhatsApp at +9779849790153.