The Annapurna with Tilicho Lake and Ice Lake Trek is an extraordinary journey through the Annapurna and Mustang regions, combining dramatic high-altitude landscapes with rich cultural experiences. The trek begins in verdant valleys and traditional mountain villages, gradually ascending northwards to Tilicho Lake (4,919 m)-one of the world’s highest lakes. According to local legend, Tilicho was formed when the mountain goddess Tilicho flooded the valley to protect her devotees, and the lake’s serene waters are believed to possess spiritual powers. Nearby, Ice Lake (4,600 m) offers equally stunning alpine views, with stories of local spirits said to guard its frozen shores.
One of the most spectacular moments of the trek is the crossing of Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), one of the Himalaya’s highest trekking passes, offering magnificent views of Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu. From here, the trail descends to Muktinath, a sacred Hindu-Buddhist pilgrimage site. Pilgrims have visited Muktinath for centuries to worship at its temples, eternal flame, and 108 holy water spouts, with legends claiming that the flames have burned continuously since ancient times.
The journey then moves into the dry and culturally distinctive Mustang region, north-east of the pass, known for its desert-like landscapes and strong Tibetan influence. Villages such as Lupra, one of Nepal’s last Bon communities, hold stories of ancient rituals and spiritual practices that have been preserved for generations. The trek concludes at Mohare Danda, where the final sunrise over the western Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges provides a serene and unforgettable end to this challenging, yet deeply rewarding, Himalayan adventure.
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m). Transfer to hotel.
Your memorable holiday begins in Kathmandu. After arrival, you will have time to freshen up before meeting your guide for an afternoon briefing. This is the perfect moment to organize your trekking gear and prepare your bags for the journey ahead.
Accommodation: Hotel. Meals included: morning
Transport : 20 M drive hotel
Kathmandu - Besi Sahar (760 m) - Dharapani (1860 m)
Early morning departure to Besisahar along the main highway between Nepal and India. Passing through villages, we change jeeps at Besisahar. Beyond this point, the road becomes a stony track, bumpy but lined with rice fields and traditional villages. Occasional landslides may cause delays or vehicle changes, so it’s best to follow the Nepalese example and stay cheerful. We finally arrive at Dharapani and settle into the lodge
Dharapani - Chame (2700 m)
After breakfast, we climb to Timang througout the Danaque villages, at the end of the Marsyangdi Gorge. The trail then becomes gentler, passing from pine forests to drier hills. Chame, the largest settlement beyond Besisahar, is the district headquarters of Manang.
Chame - Lower Pisang (3200 m)
After breakfast, the trail follows the Marsyangdi River through pine forests to Bhratang, famous for its apple orchards. The valley then opens up to the impressive Paungda Danda rock face. After crossing a suspension bridge, we climb to Dukur Pokhari (3,240?m) for lunch with spectacular mountain views, before gently descending to Lower Pisang (3,200?m). You can also visit Upper Pisang to see its monastery and enjoy broader views. This stage combines forested paths, river scenery, and dramatic mountain landscapes.
Pisang - Ghyaru (3720) - Tibetan village of Ngawal (3661 m)
Today is one of the most scenic days. We climb steeply to Ghyaru, a small Tibetan village at 3,720?m, with amazing mountain views and traditional stone houses. From Ghyaru, the trail crosses open hills to Ngawal (3,661?m), a larger village with a beautiful monastery and ancient stone buildings. This quieter route offers great scenery and helps your body acclimatise before we continue to Manang.
Ngawal - Braga Monastery - Manang (3542 m)
After breakfast, we follow a scenic, gently descending trail from Ngawal, winding through open alpine terrain with scattered juniper trees, mani walls, and sweeping views of Annapurna III and Gangapurna. After about 1.5 hours, we reach the historic village of Braga, where a 600-year-old monastery perched on a cliff is well worth a short visit for its spiritual atmosphere and stunning views. From Braga, the trail becomes easy and mostly flat, following the Marsyangdi River until we arrive at Manang, a lively village and important acclimatisation stop on the Annapurna Circuit.
Ice Lake (4610 m) Acclimatization day in Manang
From Braga or the small village of Manang, the trail climbs steeply through alpine meadows. The high altitude and rough terrain can make the path challenging. The main highlight is a glacier lake with clear turquoise water reflecting the surrounding peaks, with views of Gangapurna and the Annapurna range, including Annapurna II, III, and IV. For an easier option, Gangapurna Lake is shorter to reach and ideal for a quick visit or acclimatisation. Alternatively, you can choose to rest in Manang to recover and prepare for the next stage of the trek.
Manang - Tilicho Base Camp (4150 m)
After breakfast, the day begins through remote, high-altitude terrain. The trail gradually ascends to Khangsar, a small stone-built village, before continuing to Siri Kharka, where trekkers are treated to scenic views of Tilicho Peak. From there, the path becomes more demanding, crossing narrow, landslide-prone sections, before descending slightly to Tilicho Base Camp, where trekkers rest prior to the hike to Tilicho Lake.
Accommodation: lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
Elevation gain: 860 m. Elevation loss: 266 m. 6/7 hours walking.
Tilicho BC - Tilicho lake (4920 m) - Shree Kharka (4080 m)
Today is the final stage to reach Tilicho Lake. After a gentle climb, you are rewarded with breathtaking views of the lake at 4,930?metres. The only sounds are the occasional avalanches from Tilicho Peak or ice breaking into the lake, adding to the wild beauty of the surroundings. If the lakeside tea stall is open, it is the perfect place to enjoy a hot drink while taking in the scenery. After spending time at Tilicho Lake, we retrace our steps along the trail back to Shree Kharka.
Accommodation: lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
Elevation gain: 860 m. Elevation loss: 266 m. 6/7 hours walking.
Shree Kharka - Thorong Phedi (4450m) At the bottom of Thorong La
Today, the trail gradually climbs through alpine meadows and barren landscapes. This less-travelled route from Manang to Thorong Phedi offers a quieter and more scenic alternative. Trekking through rugged high-altitude terrain, you will enjoy beautiful views of the Annapurna range and the Marsyangdi Valley, making it a peaceful and less crowded option compared to the main Annapurna Circuit route.
Accommodation: lodge. Meals included: morning noon evening.
Elevation gain: 1180 m. Elevation loss: 715 m. 6 hours walking.
Thorung Phedi - Thorong La pass (5416 m) - Muktinath (3760 m)
Starting very early, the trail climbs steadily to Thorong High Camp. The ascent is mostly gentle, with a few more demanding sections along the way. One of the highest trekking passes in the world. At the top, you will see colourful prayer flags, a Buddhist stupa, and stones left by trekkers. Take a break to enjoy the amazing views of snowy mountains and valleys. After the pass, the trail goes down sharply to Chabarbu, passing meadows and a deep gorge, then rises a little before reaching Muktinath. Muktinath is a sacred place for Buddhists and Hindus, known for its old temple and natural springs. It is a tough but very special day.
Muktinath - Lupra (3050 m) - Drive to Tatopani (1200 m)
Tatopani - Sikha (2300m) - Ghorepani (2860 m)
The day starts with a short walk along a road and across a bridge. You then climb uphill through farms and small traditional villages, which are more authentic and different from the ones you have seen before. No heavy winter gear is needed today - just a couple of t-shirts will be enough. Near the top, enjoy the stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains from Ghorepani.
Ghorepani - Poonhil (3210 m) - Phulbari (3000 m) - Mohare Danda (3313 m)
To catch the sunrise from Poon Hill, you start with a steep climb of around one hour early in the morning over stone steps. The trail passes through rhododendron forests, away from the busier paths, with stunning views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. It then follows the ridge to Mohare Danda community lodge, where you can enjoy views of many peaks, including Annapurna, Machapuchare, Hiunchuli, Mardi Himal, Lamjung Himal, and the towering Dhaulagiri. You also have the option to return to the lodge for breakfast before continuing on to Mohare Danda.
Mohare Danda - Pokhara (850 m)
After enjoying the sunrise, the trek continues along beautiful ridges with rhododendron and tropical forests, before descending steeply to the village of Ulleri via long stone steps. After lunch in Ulleri, you will take jeeps to Pokhara.
Pokhara - Kathmandu
After breakfast, you will drive back to Kathmandu. The scenic journey along the Prithvi Highway takes approximately six to seven hours.
Kathmandu - Souvenirs day | Sightseeing Day.
If you choose sightseeing, this full-day cultural tour offers a well-rounded experience of Kathmandu’s history, spirituality, and art, guided by a certified expert who will enrich your understanding of the city’s unique heritage.
Suggested itinerary (maximum three sites per day):
- SwayambunathThe price includes a certified cultural guide, a reserved vehicle, and a professional driver for the day.
Pricing per person:
2 - 3 People: €70Final Departure / Back to Native Land
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