Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake -Mesokanta Pass Trek

From Kathmandu, we start early for our drive to Dharapani by private jeep. Once we reach there, we freshen up and spend the night at the local lodge.

We start our trek from Dharapani to Chame, the headquarter of Manang district. Along the way to Chame we come across a few steep forested ridges along with several landslides. As we reach the Chame, we will be greeted with remarkable views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV. We also come across two small hot springs which is great to take a dip and relax after an exhausting day. Overnight in Chame.

We start our trek to Pisang along the river banks through Telekhu to Bharatang which is surrounded by apple orchards. Today we cross the Marshyandi river and walk through a steep and narrow valley to have our first view of the Paungda Danda rock face, a dramatic curved rock face rising 1500m from the river. We can appreciate excellent views of Annapurna II to the south and Pisang Peak to the northeast from here. We continue our descent to the Manang Valley floor enjoying the captivating landscape. Overnight in Pisang.

The trail to Manang a steep ridge which offers good views of the Manang valley and Tilicho peak. As We descend past Manang’s airstrip at Hongde, the northeast face of Annapurna III rises majestically above us. We cross the Marsyandi River via a woodenbridge to reach a tiny village of Mungji. We pass through beautiful cultivated field to reach Bryga where lies the Bryga Monastery,the biggest monastery in the Manang District. As we reach Manang, the climate becomes colder and dryer. Overnight in Manang.

It is very important for our body to acclimatize while we travel to a higher altitude.An acclimatization at Manang will help the body adjust to the increasing altitude. In order to acclimatize, we keep ourselves busy with a short hike to either Bhojo Monastary or Gangapurna Lake. We can also hike to Vraga Village where we can visit the Himalayan Rescue Association, which will give us information about Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Overnight in Manang.

We start our walk from Manang through the western gates and follow the path down to the river. We cross the Marsyandi river and continue on its southern side through coniferous forest. The walk from Manang to Khangsar follows a narrow trail. In Khangsar, we can relish spectacular views of the Khangsar Khola, Tilicho Peak and the grand barrier.

Although the route from Khangsar to Tilicho Base Camp isn’t physically strenuous, it could be exhausting as we have to walk on narrow, loose, scree, path prone to landslide. We go through the middle of the landslide prone area where we can see impressive rock formations along the trail. We reach Tilicho Base camp after a steep descent. Overnight in teahouse at Tilicho Base Camp.

The trek starts with a steep ascent and continues to hug the side of the mountain before reaching the lake. On our way we can see yaks and deer grazing in the pasture. As we reach the Tilicho lake we can see the Tilicho Lake, a large turquoise lake nestled at the foot of the north face of Tilicho Peak. The beauty of the scene is appreciated by many travelers from around the world.The lake holds great importance to the Hindus as the lake was mentioned in the holy text, the Ramayan. Overnight in a Tent.

We start early to cross the Mesokanta La Pass(5120m). It is very important to cross the pass early to avoid the strong wind during the afternoon. We can enjoy great views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs while crossing the pass. We descend to Kaisang to spend the night at Tent.

We start our trek from Kaisang to Jomsom. Our trail passes through the rhododendron and pine forest having panoramic views of the green hills and slopes.Jomsom is a small, beautiful town in the Mustang district with a backdrop of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri. We will get ready for an early flight back to Pokhara. Overnight in Jomsom.

Jomsom Altitude: 2,743 meters

Tatopani Altitude: 1,200 meters

Driving Hours: 6-7 hrs

Overnight at Fine Lodge of Tatopani

The trip to Tatopani will be a lot more fun and relaxing as we have no trail to walk the entire day. In fact, we’ll just enjoy the scenic ride throughout the trip and give the foot a much-needed rest. Driving the rugged road, we’ll pass the deepest gorge in the world, Kali Gandaki Gorge.

You’ll notice the arid landforms switch to green hills and pasture before even getting to halfway. From there, we can enjoy the beautiful sights of mountainous ridges, highlands, grassy meadows, and roaring streams.

After a 6-7 hours drive, we’ll arrive at the small village of Tatopani, which is famous for its natural hot springs. These large rock pools with hot water are popular among the tourists visiting Nepal. It lies almost 5 km south of Kodri on the border of Nepal and Tibet

As the water has medicinal and healing powers, locals often visit here to relieve their pain. To ease up and reduce fatigue after the long journey, we’ll also take a bath at this hot spring while enjoying the beautiful scene of towering green hills and a gushing river. Overnight stay in a guest house.

Ghorepani Altitude: 2,860 meters

Walking hours: 6-7 hrs

Overnight at Nice Hotel at Ghorepani (Poon Hill)

We’ll get up early today and leave for the trek to Ghorepani that comes with an astounding view. The trek begins with crossing a Kali Gandaki River to the east side, from where we take a gentle but endless ascent uphill. Climbing the stone stairs and walking beside a terrace farm for almost 2 hours, we’ll end up at the lovely village of Ghara.

From here, we’ll follow a steep trail heading to Sikha. Due to the high elevation gain, the trek is a bit demanding and gruesome. The surrounding views of deep valleys, towering hills, and beautiful landscapes make up for the difficulties though. After reaching the village, we’ll stop at a guest house and have our lunch before continuing the journey further.

The trail to Ghorepani has us passing over the terraced farmland and into the dense forest filled with rhododendron, birch, and Mongolia. We’ll also walk from the edge of the hill which provides a stunning view of snow-capped mountains. After a long and arduous climb upward on the last section, we’ll finally arrive at the village.

The total travel length from Tatopani to Ghorepani is 16.9 km and takes anywhere from 6-7 hours depending on the speed. Ghorepani is one of the crowded villages in the entire Annapurna Circuit. It’s a central hub for trekkers and a perfect spot to watch the dazzling view of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, and Hiunchuli.

Poon Hill Altitude: 3,210 meters

Pokhara Altitude: 822 meters

Walking Hours: 2 hrs

Driving Hours: 2 hrs

Overnight at Hotel in Pokhara

Soon after waking up to the first light of the day, we’ll hike up to Poon Hill to witness the mind-blowing sunrise view. The walking distance is 9.5 km and mostly uphill, making us lose our breath. Still, the trek is worth it as we get to see the 360-degree view of Annapurna massif and Nilgiri Himal.

Standing at the viewpoint, we’ll also get to glance at the rolling hills, vibrant valleys, and the beautiful red and orange colors of a sunrise. Upon enjoying the sightseeing, we’ll descend the trail to Hile and drive back to Pokhara.

The drive from Hile to Pokhara lasts about 2 hours but even in such a little time, the trek gives us some fond memories and amazing views. Once arrived at the Pokhara, you can go on a little tour of the town or take a rest at the hotel.

There are also many adventurous activities to do in this city including paragliding, ziplining, and skydiving. In the evening, visitors can walk by the shore of Rara Lake and experience the beautiful sunset view.

Kathmandu Altitude: 1,400 meters

Driving hours: 7-8 hrs

Overnight at Hotel in Kathmandu

On the last day of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, we’ll head back to Kathmandu. After breakfast, we’ll be taking a long drive on a regular Tourist bus to Kathmandu City. The road from Pokhara to Kathmandu crosses the Trishuli River through Dumre and passes many villages.

The road trip also offers us an impressive glimpse of dazzling snow peaks, mountainous hills, and waterfalls. After entering the valley, our staff will escort you to the hotel where you can freshen up and get some sleep.