Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake Highlights
The Annapurna Circuit with a side trip to Tilicho Lake is a popular trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse experiences.
- Offers a breathtaking variety of landscapes, from lush subtropical forests and terraced fields to alpine meadows and high mountain desert.
- Opportunity to witness the majestic Annapurna Range, including Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri and many other peaks.
- Crossing Thorang La 5,416 meters (17,769 feet) is one of the highest trekking passes in the world and it is a challenging experience.
- Hike to Tilicho Lake, the highest lake in the world at an altitude of 4,919 meters (16,138 feet). The turquoise Lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks is a stunning sight.
- Visit monasteries, and temples, and interact with the locals.
- Visit Muktinath Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, the temple is known for its eternal flame and 108 water spouts. It's a significant cultural stop on the trek.
- The trek provides a combination of adventure and physical challenge, especially walking to Tilicho, crossing high passes, and dealing with varying weather conditions.
- Offer some of the most spectacular sunrise and sunset views you'll ever witness.
Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake Overview
Maurice Herzog, a French mountaineer was certainly the first human being to summit the 8000 m peak. He summited Mt. Annapurna I (one), the 10th highest mountain in the world on 3rd June 1950. Legend has it that Herzog camped in Tilicho Lake on his quest to the Annapurna Expedition.
Conversely, in their quest to climb the 10th highest peak in the world, Maurice came down to Manang in a futile search for food. It is however believed that he had to return nearly starving back to Tilicho camp.
Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake is undeniably an epic trek. It provides anyone with a genuine celestial experience that words can’t express.
Annapurna Circuit trek with Tilicho Lake takes us to the most stunning topographic setting of Annapurna. Once the Number 1 trekking destination in the world, the Annapurna circuit served as the ancient salt trading route between Tibet and Nepal. This enchanting trail of the Annapurna circuit gradually cruises into the different valleys of Tilicho away from the main trail.
It eventually takes you into the very untouched terrain which is absolutely out of the world. Soon the valley lands us to the point where it exhibits before us the world’s highest lake, Tilicho nestled at the base of the majestic Tilicho peak.
Tilicho Lake (4,919 m/16,138 feet)
Tilicho Lake is a high-altitude lake located in the Annapurna mountain range of Nepal. It is at an elevation of 4,919 meters (16,138 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest lakes in the world.
The lake is fed by the glacial melt from the surrounding mountains. The majestic snow-capped peaks, including Tilicho Peak, surround its turquoise-blue waters. Tilicho Peak rises to a height of 7,134 meters (23,406 feet).
Tilicho Lake is considered a sacred site by both Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims. Many travelers visit the lake as part of a trekking or mountaineering expedition in the region. The lake can be reached by a 3-4 day trek from the town of Besishahar in the Annapurna region, and the trek provides stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Due to its remote location and high altitude, trekking to Tilicho Lake can be physically demanding and requires careful preparation and acclimatization. However, the breathtaking scenery and spiritual significance of the lake make it a popular destination for adventurous travelers.
Going over the Legendary Thorang La Pass (5,416 m/17,769 feet):
As we walk from Tilicho Valley we retrace our trail and connect with the main Annapurna circuit trail. It ultimately leads us to the most daring Thorang La Pass (5,416 m/17,769 ft). More significantly it is the highest navigable pass in the world and served as the main route of salt trading.
From the summit, we descend down to the other side of the pass which lands us at Muktinath. Eventually, we are in a different district of Mustang which is remarkable. The splendor and views are simply out of this world.
Muktinath Temple (3,800 m/12,467 feet)
Mukti Nath Temple is a sacred site located in Mustang district in the northern part of Nepal, near the border with Tibet. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, one of the major deities in the Hindu religion, and is considered to be one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Nepal.
The significance of Mukti Nath Temple lies in its spiritual and religious importance. There is a belief that a visit to the temple and a dip in the nearby holy pond can bring salvation and liberation from the cycle of rebirth and death. Many Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims visit the temple to offer prayers and perform rituals. These pilgrims hope to attain spiritual enlightenment and release from the cycle of life and death.
The temple is also known for its unique architecture, which combines Hindu and Buddhist elements. It also reflects the syncretic nature of religion in the region. The temple complex includes a pagoda-style temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, as well as a Buddhist monastery and other shrines. The presence of both Hindu and Buddhist elements reflects the harmony and coexistence of different religions and cultures in Nepal.
In addition to its spiritual significance, Mukti Nath Temple is also a popular tourist destination due to its remote and picturesque location in the Himalayas. Trekking to the temple can be challenging, but the stunning mountain scenery and cultural richness of the region make it a rewarding experience for adventurous travelers.
Kagbeni and Jomsom:
After Muktinath, we walk the established Mustang trail towards Kagbeni. Being at Kagbeni the gateway to the forbidden kingdom of Mustang is another attraction. After exploring Kagbeni, after lunch, we will drive to Jomsom
Experience the change in vegetation, enjoy the serenity, and all the while being in the company of the glorious Himalayas.
This evening at JOMSOM holds a special place in our hearts, not only because it marks the conclusion of our remarkable journey but also because it's an opportunity to express our heartfelt appreciation. Over a shared dinner table, we enjoy our dinner together.
It's a time for gratitude, as we present well-deserved tips to our guides and porters who have been our pillars of support throughout this adventure. Laughter and music fill the air.
Finally flying over through the world's deepest gorge with the view of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range is simply sensational. All these delightful adventures through the eternal valleys make the Annapurna circuit trek with Tilicho Lake the most exquisite one.
