Annapurna circuit trek with Tilicho lake and North base camp

Overview / Introduction

The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake and North Base Camp is one of the most spectacular high-altitude treks in Nepal, combining the classic Annapurna Circuit route, the crystal clarity of Tilicho Lake (one of the highest lakes in the world), and the remote wilderness of the Annapurna North Base Camp. If you're looking for an adventure that melds challenging terrain, serene alpine landscapes, cultural richness, and untouched trails, this package is for you.

At Guru Travels Ltd., our version of this package is unique. Not only do we provide expert local guides and porters, but we also include permits, quality accommodation, all meals (where required), and tailor the pace for optimal acclimatization. Our deep knowledge of the Annapurna region ensures you’ll see hidden valleys, meet warm local communities, and catch sunrise and sunset views that many trekkers miss.

 

Tour Highlights

• Trek the full Annapurna Circuit including Tilicho Lake – a high-altitude lake at approx. 4,900 m
• Explore North Base Camp (Annapurna North Base Camp, ~4,190 m) along historic Maurice Herzog trail
• Pass through Thorong La Pass (if route included) or alternate acclimatization paths
• Witness panoramic views of Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Gangapurna, and more
• Cultural immersion in Gurung, Thakali, Magar villages; homestays/guest houses off the beaten track
• Stunning alpine landscapes: glacial moraines, high-alpine lakes, rhododendron forests, waterfalls, and terraced hillsides 

Permits & Trail Regulations (Important)

For this trek (Annapurna Circuit + Tilicho Lake + North Base Camp), the following permits are required:

• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) – around NPR 3,000 for foreign nationals; lower cost for SAARC nationals.
• TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) – this permit/card is required. As of recent regulation, trekkers must obtain via registered trekking agency. Solo trekking without guide is discouraged / not allowed in many sections.

Note: Restricted Area Permit (RAP) not required for this route unless the route enters specifically restricted zones beyond Annapurna Conservation Area.

Passport photographs required; permits usually issued in Kathmandu or Pokhara, or at certain entry points.

Visa Requirements (Latest Info)

Here are the up-to-date visa & entry rules for foreign travelers entering Nepal:

Requirement	Details
Visa Type	Tourist Visa – available on arrival at Kathmandu International Airport and certain land border points. Also eVisa / online visa application is possible via Nepal’s Department of Immigration.
Passport Validity	Must have at least six months validity at time of entry.
Blank Pages	At least one blank visa page is required.
Visa Fees	Approximate fees: 15-day multiple entry (~US$30), 30-day (~US$50), 90-day (~US$125) for most nationalities. Fees payable in USD or equivalent.
Processing Time	On arrival immediate; for eVisa/online application: about 3–5 working days if submitted in advance.
Other Requirements	Recent travel rules removed most COVID-19 restrictions in Nepal, but travelers are advised to check latest updates before departure. Travel insurance covering high altitude rescue is strongly recommended.

Guru Travels Ltd. assists in visa arrangements, including checking your eligibility, helping fill the eVisa application (if preferred), ensuring required documents (passport copy, photos, hotel booking if needed, return ticket) are in order.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March – May): Flowering rhododendrons, warming weather, clear mountain views. Climbs toward Tilicho and pass sections easier.
• Autumn / Post-Monsoon (September – November): Generally considered the best window. Stable, clear skies, dry trails, excellent visibility.
• Winter (December – February): Possible but harder; snow in high altitudes (Tilicho Lake, Thorong La) may block routes; lodges in upper areas may be closed; very cold nights.
• Monsoon (June – August): Heavy rain, slippery trails, risk of landslides; less advisable unless you want lush green landscapes and can tolerate weather risk.

Customization Options

Guru Travels Ltd. offers flexible options to tailor your trekking experience:

• Shorter or longer durations — we can compress or extend the itinerary (e.g. 14, 16, 20+ days) depending on your schedule
• Upgrade accommodation in teahouses/camps or more comfortable lodges, or private tents with better facilities
• Private group or solo guiding options; family-friendly pace or more challenging pace
• Add-ons like hot springs visits (e.g. near Tatopani), side hikes (Ice Lake, Milarepa Cave), or off-trail exploration
• Extra rest/acclimatization days especially around Manang or before high passes
• Photography or yoga/meditation focus added services if desired

Guru Travels Ltd. will work with you to choose the best route based on your fitness, preferences, and weather forecasts.

 

Why Book with Guru Travels Ltd.

• Local Expertise & Safety: Our team comprises licensed local guides with in-depth knowledge of Annapurna region, including less trodden paths to Tilicho Lake & North Base Camp. We monitor conditions for safety and altitude.
• Full Support & Transparent Costing: All permits, meals, logistics handled; no hidden fees. We use trustworthy lodges and camps with proper gear.
• Cultural Immersion & Responsible Travel: We employ local communities (guides, porters, homestays), respect conservation by securing ACAP permits, reducing waste, and encouraging sustainable practices.
• Comfort Where It Counts: Even in remote sections, we aim for clean sleeping, warm meals, well-planned rest days, and recovery support. Plus, you can upgrade comfort.
• Proven Track Record & Customer Care: Guru Travels Ltd. has organized many successful Annapurna Circuit, Tilicho and ABC trips; we offer 24/7 support from Kathmandu, emergency protocols, and high satisfaction ratings. 

Call-to-Action

Ready to take on the adventure of a lifetime? Reach out to Guru Travels Ltd. today to secure your spot on the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake & North Base Camp. Let us customize your trek, guarantee safety, and guide you into Nepal’s most breathtaking high-altitude landscapes. Book now or request a tailored quote — your Himalayan journey awaits!

 

Outline Itinerary

Day 1: Drive Kathmandu to beshisahar Day 2: Drive from Besisahar (760m) to Chame (2,670m) Day 3: Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang (3,300m) Day 4: Trek from Upper Pisang to Manang (3,540m) via Ghyaru & Ngawal Day 5: Acclimatization Day in Manang (Optional hike to Ice Lake or Gangapurna Lake) Day 6: Trek from Manang to Shree Kharka (4,060m Day 7: Trek from Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m) Day 8: Hike to Tilicho Lake (4,919m) and return to shree Kharka Day 9: Trek from Siri Kharka to Yak Kharka (4,050m) Day 10: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,450m) Day 11: Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m) and descend to Muktinath (3,760m) Day 12: Drive from Muktinath to Ghasa (2,010m) Day 13: Trek from Ghasa to Narchyang Village (1,500m) Day 14: Trek from Narchyang to Hum Khola (Lower Annapurna North BC approach Day 15: Trek to Annapurna North Base Camp (4,190m) and return to Hum Khola Day 16: Trek from Hum Khola to Narchyang Village Day 17: Drive from Narchyang to Pokhara (827m)