Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake Trek 16 Day

Trip Facts

  • Duration 17 Days
  • Difficulty Level Strenuous
  • Destination Nepal
  • Transportation Private Vehicle, Public Jeep and Domestic flight
  • Activity City Tour, Trekking and Hiking
  • Best Season March- May and Sept-Dec
  • Group Size Mini 1, Max 16 People
  • Trip Start/End Kathmandu
  • Max Altitude 5,416m/17,770ft

Highlights

  • Thorong La Pass is located at 5,416 meters.
  • Tilicho Lake (4.949m) is one of the highest in the world.
  • Blue sheep at Yak Kharka
  • Views of Mt. Annapurna, Thorung Peak, Nilgiri, Chulu West and East, Tukuche Peak, Dhaulagiri, Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV
  • Tatopani Hot Springs: Relax in the hot springs
  • Magnificent glaciers, lakes, gorges and waterfalls
  • Muktinath is a holy site for both Hindu Buddhists.
  • Manang district: Embrace its beauty
  • Barge Monastery is the largest monastery in the Manang district.

Annapurna Circuit  with Tilicho Lake Trek Comprehensive Guide 

The Tilicho Base Camp Trek has it all: the Annapurna Range in its entirety, the journey through Manang and Mustang, the crossing of the highest pass (5416m) as well as the highest lake in the world, Tilicho Lake (5019m).

The Annapurna and Tilicho Lake Trek takes you along the famous Annapurna Region to Tilicho Lake (4950m), one of the world's highest lakes. The trail crosses through different elevations and climates, from semi-tropical and desert to sub-tropical and alpine forest to snowy barren. It also passes the stunning Thorongla Mountain Pass at an altitude of 5416 meters. Visits to cultural heritage sites in Kathmandu begin the trip. The trek begins in Dharapani. Next, drive to Chamje. After the 17-day Annapurna Trek with Tilicho Lake, you'll fly to Pokhara and another flight to Kathmandu.

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek takes you above the tree lines into snow-laden terrain where breath-taking windows open up to show you massive silver-grey peaks and a lovely river that's the highest of its kind in the world ethnic communities and mountain culture coupled with lifestyles and old-world traditions make this trek notebook true stories for the generations to come.

The Annapurna Circuit - Tilicho Lake – with Thorung La Pass Trek is renowned for being one of the universe's most fabulous and integrated treks. It's the kind of trek from 1000 meters onwards that takes you into lush green valleys with opportunities to explore the length and breadth of the Himalayas from different perspectives. Throughout your hikes in the area, the eco-environment of the surroundings never fails to amaze you in every nook and cranny of the adventure. This trek is a redesigned version that's an extension of the regular Annapurna Circuit Trek. Tilicho Lake is said to be the world's highest lake. Its clear cold water is thought to get its source from the glacial meltdown of the northern slopes of Annapurna and Thorung Peak. At Tilicho Lake, your heart skips as you view the surrounding silver-grey peaks reflected in the clear shimmering water.

The trek takes off from the distinctive midlands of Marshyangdi valley at the bustling town of Besisahar, reaches the remote Manang and Tilicho regions through pleasant areas, and then crosses the snow-covered Thorung-La at 5146m, and reaches the pilgrimage mountain temple of Muktinath, a well-known holy Himalayan landmark for Hindu and Buddhist devotees.

We go off the routine trail in the Annapurna Circuit and take the more direct route via Khangsar Village to reach Tilicho Lake. After 2 day hike up to the base camp of Tilicho Lake, we reached the lake at 5200m to enjoy its natural beauty for several hours before heading down to base camp for our second night. We descend to Yak Kharka and Thorung La at 5146 before making a beeline for Muktinath and then onto Jomsom.

In Kathmandu, we stay in a hotel with warm, pleasant surroundings of your choice, while on the trails in the wild, we crash out in pretty comfortable lodges or "teahouses" and don't be surprised by the apple pies after supper…even at such remote outposts.

This trek takes 16 days and is great for walking around the Annapurna Circle Trail and seeing the peaceful Tilicho Lake. If you want a shorter trek along the same path, the 14-day Annapurna Circle Short Trek is a good choice. But if you want to go around the Annapurna mountains, the 17-day Annapurna Circular Trek is the best option

Annapurna Circuit  With Tilicho Lake Trek: The Start

The Annapurna Circuit Trekking begins in Dharapani and follows the Marshyangdi River with spectacular views of Manaslu to the east. This wonderful Tilicho Lake Trekking takes you to a fine village inhabited by people of different ethnicities and offers spectacular views of the Himalayas. This route is a customized version of the Annapurna Circuit. Instead of going north through the valley to Tanki Manang or Yak Kharka, we take the main valley west, pass through Khanshar Village (The Last Village of Nepal), and trek to Tilicho Lake. We then travel to Yak Kharka and Thorung La, at 5416 meters. The treks from the Thorung-La Pass lead to Muktinath, then Jomsom, where scenic flights of 25 minutes take you to Pokhara.

When is the Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Tilicho Lake Trek? 

The best time for  Annapurna Circuit Trek is Spring and Autumn in Nepal. Spring/pre-monsoon weather is dry and moderate during February, March, April, and May. The Annapurna region is best suited for trekking during spring when the mountains are visible, and the scenery is beautiful. The temperature can range from 18-23 degrees Celsius during the day and drop to -8/12 degrees Celsius overnight. 

The Autumn (post-monsoon) season is also a great time to adventure along the Annapurna circuit route. This season occurs in September, October, November and December. The temperatures in Autumn range between 12-20 degrees Celsius during the day and -5/10 degrees Celsius at night. It is cooler and a good time to go trekking.

Accommodation during the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek

The accommodation on the Annapurna Circuit is in Teahouses and trekking Guesthouses. Rooms are neat and clean, with a double occupancy capacity; the beds are made of wood and soft mattresses, pillows, and warm blankets. Some rooms have attached bathrooms (not everywhere). You will enjoy a comfortable and relaxing sleep in cozy rooms. Single rooms are available for female solo travelers (except Himalaya and ABC). But it might be hard to get one during the busy times when many tourists are around. During your trek, you will be accommodated in the best tea house with a great view of the mountains and scenery.

Meals during the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek

The Annapurna Trek with Tilicho Lake takes place in high altitudes, near some of the highest peaks on Earth. You will, therefore, need to eat nutritious food. You will receive a nutritious and hygienic meal throughout your journey. The options for meals are more limited than in cities. We will provide 16 breakfasts 15 lunches, and 14 dinners during the trek.

We choose lodges with fresh, nutritious, hygienic, and tasty food. As we move up, the menu becomes shorter. Try the famous Nepali food, including Dal (lentils), Bhat(rice), Tarkari(curry), Momo(dumplings), and Chow Mein noodles. We recommend plenty of fresh vegetables, green tea, lemon and ginger teas, garlic soup, and hot lemon and ginger tea at high altitudes. We do not recommend non-vegetarian items, even though they are available in trek areas.

Drinking- Water  during the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek

Adventure Club provides all the meals on the trek but needs to provide water. The best option is to treat the local water with chlorine/iodine tablets or a steripen. The tea houses will give you good quality free water and, you can also get along the trail but, you will need to treat it. If you use the tablets, make sure they dissolve completely (about 30 mins). On most treks, you can buy mineral water along the trail. A liter of mineral water at lower-elevation tea houses costs around USD 1. However, higher elevations can cost up to $4, so the cost can add up.

Electricity, WIFI, And Battery Recharge 

During the trek, electricity is available at all the teahouses where you will spend the night. You can recharge your phones, laptops, or iPads from micro-hydropower and solar panels by paying a nominal charge. Regarding Wi-Fi, there are no free hotspots along the trekking trail, so we do not encourage carrying your laptop. Some teahouses offer paid Wi-Fi services hourly but don’t expect high-speed connectivity on the remote trails.

Itinerary

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Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), you will be welcomed by a representative from Adventure Club Trek. After sorting out your customs formalities (visa), you will be transferred to your respective Hotel in Adventure Club Trek’s private vehicle. After resting at your Hotel, you will attend an orientation about your trek led by the trekking leader over a welcome dinner.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsWelcome Dinner
  • Max. Altitude1,300m/4,264ft

It’s a long drive today. Right after breakfast, we drive through the Trishuli River bank and the Marshyangdi River valley. We reach Besisahar, the district center of Lamjung district. Then, we drive further to Dharapani via Bhulbhule, Nadi, Syange, and Jagat. Overnight in Dharapani.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude1,860m / 6,200ft

After breakfast, we trek through a few steep forested ridges and several landslide spots; we will make it up to the village of Chame. We should remember to look up, though, as we will be greeted with remarkable views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV (7,525m). We also come across small hot springs, which should help us relax. Overnight in Chame.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude2,610m / 8,890ft

We walk through a steep and narrow valley to see Paungda Danda Rock Face - a curved rock face rising 1500m from the Marshyandi River. You will also see clear views of Annapurna II in the south and Pisang Peak in the northeast. After viewing the Paungda Danda Rock Face, we descend to the Manang Valley flooreventually reaching Pisang- our destination for the day.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude3,300m / 10,826ft

We trek the upper trails to Pisang via Geru. The path provides spectacular views of the north faces of Annapurna III, IV, and Gangapurna and Tilicho and Pisang Peak. In this harsh environment, you can still find Tibetan settlements. We will also visit the Barge Monastery, the largest monastery in Manang. Overnight in Manang.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude3,540m / 11,300ft

Our body requires acclimatization when we walk at the alpine altitude. Manang is a wonderful town to spend an acclimatization day with a hiking option near Gangapurna Lake. It makes your breathing easy and also gets relief from tired muscles. The further walk will be even higher, so altitude adaptation is the most important. During the hike, we get impressive Tilicho Peak, Annapurna III, Chulu, and Pisang Peak scenery. Then we get back to the hotel and rest with hot meals.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude3,519m/11,546ft

The journey from Manang up to Siri Kharka takes less time. The trek from Manang to Siri Kharka is easier. We follow the upper route, which leads to a river we will cross. We then take a path through the coniferous forest. After about three hours of walking, we arrive at the Tibetan settlement Khangsar. But we continue our journey to reach Shiri Kharka. We will see Gungang Himal, Mt.Chulu, and other stunning views on the trails.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude4,060m / 13,320ft

While the path from Siri Kharka to Tilicho Base Camp isn’t very steep or physically strenuous, it could be exhausting as we have to walk on narrow paths in loose scree and landslide areas. Our trail goes through the middle of the landslide area, where we can see impressive rock formations along the trail. Overnight in Tilicho Base Camp.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude4,140m/13,583ft

Our trail follows the side of a mountain, descending steeply and gradually before reaching the watershed. We see yaks and a deer grazing both above and below the trail. The other side of the mountain is Tilicho Lake. It's a spectacularly situated lake at the base of Tilicho Peak. The leader of the French team referred to the lake as "The Great Ice Lake". The lake is also important to Hindus because it appears in The Ramayan, one of their most sacred texts. Retracing our steps, we return to Siri Kharka. Overnight at Siri Kharka.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude4,949m/16,238ft

As we leave Siri Kharka, we descend to Khangsar Village. We pass Tare Gumba on the way. This is a 1,000-year-old monastery that is important to the locals. When we reach Khangsar Village, we realize that the village is not inhabited by occasional herders at festival times. Follow the rock wall to leave Khangsar. We continue walking until we reach the Thorang Khola Valley seasonal bridge. We ascend to the plateau after crossing the river. Continue walking until you reach Yak Kharka. Yak Kharka is a good place to spend the night.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude4,110m/13,485ft

Thorang Phedi is a steep climb. We walk for a while before crossing a suspension bridge and reaching Ledar village. As we ascend, we pass by towering cliffs and reach Thorang Phedi. This is the last village before Thorong La. This trip rewards us with the best view of Mt. Gundang, Mt. Syagang, Thorung Peak, and Mt. Khatungkan. Thorang Phedi Overnight

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude4,420m/14,502ft

Strenuous day of trekking ahead! We start the morning in the pre-dawn darkness at 4 am. to reach the pass by 9–10 am. After 10 am, strong winds dominate the trail, significantly affecting the journey to Thorong La and stopping at the pass. Besides altitude and snow, the route is relatively easy but requires four hours of climbing. At 5,416m, Thorong La is a pass that surpasses the altitude of the Everest Base Camp at 5,380 m. Enjoy views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks, among other mountains, from the top. Another four hours of the downhill climb will bring us to Muktinath (translation: a place of nirvana). It is home to the sacred Muktinath Temple, several monasteries, a natural hot spring, and an ‘eternal flame’ fueled innately by natural gas. Overnight in Muktinath.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude5,416m/17,770ft

Muktinath, an ultimate destination for Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims, is a beautiful place. We visit the Muktinath Temple before embarking on the trek ahead. There are water spouts where freshwater channels from the streams above the temple. As the trail extends, we can enjoy the magnificent views of Mt. Dhaulagiri. You can even buy a fossilized mollusk called ‘Shaligram’ as a memento. We move ahead among meadows, cross streams, and hills to Kagbeni, a village laden with chortens (memorial stupas) and a small monastery. Continue the trek after a lunch break at Kagbeni and over to Jomsom on the Kali Gandaki Valley as the trail cuts through windy areas. Overnight in Jomsom.

  • AccommodationGuesthouse/Teahouse
  • MealsBreakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
  • Max. Altitude5,416m/17,770ft

We fly to Pokhara. The flight itself is spectacular; we fly while looking at views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges and over the deepest gorge in the world. The warmer climate in Pokhara will make us feel better. We can take a boat ride in the lake's serene waters with the Fishtail Mountain's reflection on its waters. We could also visit Davis Falls. In the evening, we can stroll around the lakeside area and buy souvenirs for loved ones. Overnight in Pokhara.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast
  • Max. Altitude827m/2,713ft

Another short flight takes you back to Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. We can take a rest in our hotel room and spend the rest of the day in leisure. In the evening, there will be a farewell dinner hosted by Adventure Club Trek to celebrate the successful completion of our journey. Overnight in Kathmandu.

  • AccommodationHotel
  • MealsBreakfast, and Farewell Dinner
  • Max. Altitude1,350m/4,429ft

Our Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake Trek 17 Day ends here. A representative from the Adventure Club Trek will accompany you and see you off at Tribhuvan International airport a few hours before the scheduled flight to your home.

Note: If you still have a few days after the trekking schedule, you might be interested to experience other adventurous activities like jungle safariRafting, Bungee jumping, and paragliding. You may contact the Adventure Club Trek for the arrangement.

  • MealsBrekfast

Note: The 16-Day Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake Trek itinerary is designed to include flights from Jomsom to Pokhara and Kathmandu. However, you have more time in Pokhara and prefer budget-friendly travel by tourist bus or Jeep from Jomsom to Pokhara and Kathmandu by Tourist bus. In that case, we can Customize the itinerary with a land transportation option and reduce the cost accordingly. Please Contact Us, and we will gladly tailor the itinerary to suit your needs. We can also create a longer 18- 19-day itinerary for the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake Pooh Hill Trek.

Cost Details

Price Includes

  • Arrival and Departure transfer by private tourist vehicle.
  • Standard Hotel on a twin-shared basis at a three-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
  • One night accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star hotel in Pokhara
  • Best available twin sharing Teahouse or lodge accommodation during the trek
  • Domestic flight ticket from Pokhara to Kathmandu.
  • Surface transfer from Kathmandu – Beshisahar by private vehicle and from Beshisahar to Dharapani by local jeep
  • Jomsom - Pokhara airfare, including departure tax
  • Welcome and farewell dinner.
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
  • Government-licensed, English-speaking guide trained in wilderness first aid
  • Porters to carry your luggage during the trek (1 porter for 2 trekkers)
  • Assistant trekking guides walking with the group to support as necessary (1 assistant guide for 4 trekkers)
  • Staff costs include their Food, salary, accommodation, transportation and medicine.
  • Insurance covers all staff, including porters, as per state law.
  • Down jacket and sleeping bag (to be returned after trip completion).
  • Annapurna Conservation Park permits and TIMS permits for Trekking.
  • Adventure Club Trek T-shirt and Trekking map
  • Duffel bag for Trekking
  • Medical kit (carried by your trek leader)
  • Travel and rescue arrangement
  • All Government and Local taxes

Price Excludes

  • Nepal visa (15 Days – 30 USD, 30 Days – 50 USD,and 90 Days – 125 USD)
  • Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • International airfares/flights (fares and flights can be arranged upon request)
  • Personal expenses (alcoholic drinks, bottled water, cold drinks)
  • Personal travel insurance and medical bills
  • Personal trekking equipment
  • Tips for guides, porters, and drivers (tipping is expected, but it is not mandatory)

Date & Prices

     
Start DateStart: MondayDecember 11, 2023End DateEnd: WednesdayDecember 27, 2023StatusStatusAvailablePricePriceUS $1389
Start DateStart: ThursdayDecember 14, 2023End DateEnd: SaturdayDecember 30, 2023StatusStatusAvailablePricePriceUS $1389
Start DateStart: SundayDecember 17, 2023End DateEnd: TuesdayJanuary 02, 2024StatusStatusAvailablePricePriceUS $1389
Start DateStart: ThursdayDecember 21, 2023End DateEnd: SaturdayJanuary 06, 2024StatusStatusAvailablePricePriceUS $1389
Start DateStart: SundayDecember 24, 2023End DateEnd: TuesdayJanuary 09, 2024StatusStatusAvailablePricePriceUS $1389
Start DateStart: WednesdayDecember 27, 2023End DateEnd: FridayJanuary 12, 2024StatusStatusAvailablePricePriceUS $1389
Start DateStart: SaturdayDecember 30, 2023End DateEnd: MondayJanuary 15, 2024StatusStatusAvailablePricePriceUS $1389

The Published dates are guaranteed departures. If the scheduled dates are unsuitable, we will happily create trips to suit your needs. Let us know what kind of trip you are looking for, and our travel experts will help customize your dream destination.

Useful Info

Trip Note: 

Your safety is of the utmost concern while traveling with Adventure Club Trek. We will make every effort possible to follow the original itinerary. However, we reserve the right to change that itinerary if a segment of it becomes a safety issue. Certain mountain regions are remote, natural disasters can happen, weather conditions can decline, and illness or injury can occur. To avoid dangerous situations, we may occasionally change the itinerary to ensure everyone’s safety. That being said, Adventure Club Trek will strive to provide you with the best possible trekking experience and keep your safety our number one priority. We thank you for your understanding.

Acclimatization And High Altitude Sickness: 

The acclimatization planned during the trip helps trekkers adapt to the environment with less oxygen. Our body needs time to adjust to the higher altitudes. Rushing to the higher elevation without acclimatization may result in acute mountain sickness (AMS), which could be fatal. The trekkers may suffer from AMS above 2,400m/7,875ft as the amount of oxygen becomes less and less with the increase in elevation.

We can categorize AMS into three categories with its symptoms. The trekker suffering from normal AMS feels giddy, gets headaches and nausea, and is out of breath; it is suggested not to worry as it disappears after the body gets used to less oxygen. Likewise, trekkers suffering from mild AMS show symptoms of dizziness, muscular pain, insomnia, headache, vomiting, loss of appetite, rapid heartbeat, and shortness of breath. Mild AMS can be treated with anti-headache medicines. A person suffering from serious AMS shows heightened symptoms including shortness of breath even while taking rest. The trekker with serious symptoms can barely walk, and fluids may start building up in the lungs. The trekker with serious AMS must be taken to the lower altitude immediately.

Advanced cases of AMS

If AMS is not treated in time, it can be life-threatening and lead to edema. In this condition, fluid accumulates in the body's tissues. Following are the two serious altitude sicknesses caused at high altitudes.

High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE)

In HACE, the brain gets swollen, leading to coma and even death. Its symptoms are paralysis on one side of the body, bladder dysfunction, fatigue, bowel dysfunction, loss of coordination, and confusion. Descend to a lower altitude as soon as possible to prevent the worsening of the condition.

High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE)

Fluid accumulates in the lungs, which also increases the capillary pressure. Its symptoms include severe shortness of breath at rest, dry cough that later leads to producing pink frothy sputum, and fatigue. Important Note: Severe cases of AMS are rare. All our Adventure Club Trek guides are aware of the symptoms of AMS and can handle it with care. We prioritize acclimatization, talk about the use of Diamox beforehand, and counsel all our trekkers on the risk and preventive factors before and during the trip. Your safety is our main concern.

First-Aid Kit

Our guides and porters are equipped with a basic first-aid kit during regular treks. For expeditions that take on isolated and off-the-beaten trekking paths, a comprehensive first-aid kit is compulsory; the same goes for climbing expeditions.

  •  A bandage in case of sprains.
  • Plasters/ Band-aids and antiseptic ointments for simple cuts
  • Iodine or water filter (optional) instead of buying bottled mineral water
  •  Moleskin/Second skin in case of blisters.
  •  Aspirin/Paracetamol -painkiller.
  • Oral rehydration salts-Nava Jeevan or Jeevan Jal (orange-flavored ORS)
  •  The broad-spectrum antibiotic (norfloxacin or ciprofloxacin).
  • Anti-diarrhea medication (antibiotic).
  •  Diarrheal stopper (Imodium - optional).
  • Diamox 250/500mg (for altitude sickness).
  • Gel hand cleaner/sanitizer.

Note: We can add medical supplies per the trekkers' special needs to the first-aid kit given above.

Equipment And Packing List 

We recommend that you bring the items to the list below. Suppose your trek is longer or shorter than that. In that case, appropriate adjustments can be made to reflect the specific requirements, season, and length of the trip. Adventure Club Trek will provide the items marked with an asterisk (*) at no additional cost. You can use such articles and prefer your own if you already have them. Many trekking items can be bought cheaply in the Thamel neighborhood of Kathmandu; quality will vary, with the imported from China often being of higher quality. There are also several high-end shops in Kathmandu which carry well-known brands. Since our porters will carry your pack, please remember the weight limit is 20kg (40 lbs since there is nothing there but some prayer flags. Also, please note that you still need to send me a gear list.

* The Adventure Club Trek will lend each trekker a set of down Jackets, sleeping bags, and duffle bags.

* Our main guide, trained in wilderness first aid, will carry a comprehensive medical kit.

Important Documents And Items 

  • Valid passport, 2 extra passport-size photos, airline tickets.
  • Dollars, pounds, or Euros in cash for purchasing a Nepali visa at Kathmandu airport, paying for restaurants and hotels, gratuities, snacks, and purchasing your own drinks and gifts.
  • Credit cards, Bank/ATM/Cash machine cards for withdrawing funds from cash machines (bring a photocopy of your cards), traveler's checks, etc.

HEAD

  • A bandana or headscarf is also useful in dusty conditions.
  • Warm hat that covers your ears (wool or synthetic)
  • Headlamp with extra batteries and bulbs
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Prescription sunglasses (if required)

UPPER BODY

  • Polypropylene shirts (1 half sleeve and 2 long sleeves)
  • Light and expedition-weight thermal tops
  • Fleece wind-stopper jacket or pullover
  • Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket
  • Down vest and jacket *
  • Gore-Tex jacket with hood, waterproof and breathable

LOWER BODY

  • non-cotton underwear briefs
  • 1 pair of Hiking shorts
  • 1 pair of hiking trousers
  • 1 pair of lightweight thermal bottoms (seasonal)
  • 1 pair of fleece or woollen trousers
  • 1 pair of waterproof shell pants, breathable fabric

FEET

  •  2 pairs of thin, lightweight inner socks
  • 2 pairs of heavy poly or wool socks
  • 1 pair of Hiking boots with spare laces (sturdy soles, water-resistant, ankle support, "broken-in")
  • 1 pair of trainers or running shoes and/or sandals
  •  Cotton socks (optional)
  • Gaiters (winter only), optional, "low" ankle high version

HANDS

  •  Pair of lightweight poly-liner gloves.
  • 1 pair of lightweight wool or fleece gloves
  • 1 pair of mittens consists of 1 Gore-Tex over mitt matched with a very warm polar-fleece mitt liner (seasonal)

TOILETRIES 

  • 1 medium-sized quick-drying towel
  • Toothbrush/paste (preferably biodegradable)
  •  Multipurpose soap (preferably biodegradable)
  •  Deodorants
  •  Nail clippers
  • Face and body moisturizer
  •  Female hygiene products
  •  Small mirror
  • Personal Hygiene
  •  Wet wipes (baby wipes)
  •  Tissue /toilet roll
  • Anti-bacterial handwash

SLEEPING 

  • 1 sleeping bag (good to -10 degrees C or 14 degrees F)*
  • Fleece sleeping bag liner (optional)
  •  Rucksack and Travel Bags
  •  Medium rucksack (50-70 liters/3000-4500 cubic inches, can be used for an airplane carryon)
  •  large duffel bag *
  •  A small daypack/backpack for carrying valuables should have good shoulder padding.
  • Small padlocks for duffel-kit bags
  • 2 large waterproof rucksack covers (optional)

Medical

  • Small, personal first-aid kit. (Simple and light)
  • Aspirin, first-aid tape, and plasters (Band-Aids)
  • Anti-diarrhea pills
  • Anti-headache pills
  •  Cough and/or cold medicine
  • Anti-altitude sickness pills: Diamox or Acetylpolyamine
  • Stomach antibiotic: Ciprofloxacin, etc. Do not bring sleeping pills, as they are respiratory depressants.
  •  Water purification tablets or the water filter
  • Extra pair of prescription glasses, contact lens supplies
  • Extras/Luxuries
  •  Reading book
  • Trail map/guidebook
  • Journal and pen
  •  Binoculars (optional)
  • Voltage converter (from 220 to 110)
  •  Plug adapter (2 round pegs to 2 flat pegs)

Visa And Entry Procedure 

Everyone needs a visa to enter Nepal except Indian nationals. Citizens of the SAARC nations like Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Bhutan do not require visas for 30 days. Fortunately, getting a Nepal visa is an easy process. Tourist visas and official overland entry points are issued on arrival at the international airport. However, travelers from Afghanistan, Iraq, Cameroon, Ghana, Somalia, Swaziland, Senegal, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Liberia have yet to be issued visas on arrival. After arriving at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will find electronic kiosks to assist with your visa processing. Taking the completed form and paying the visa fee, you need to stay in the long immigration queue for your visa on arrival.

Visitors can now apply for an online visa within 15 days of their arrival date in Nepal. For this, you will need your Nepal hotel address and a digital passport-sized photo to be uploaded to the online application. After submitting the form online, you need to print out the confirmation page, which has to be furnished at the immigration section in Kathmandu airport, along with your passport and the required visa fee. 

Tourists can also apply for a Nepali visa at the local Nepali Embassy or Consulate in their respective countries. Or, they can even mail their visa application to the office near their location, but well ahead to allow sufficient processing time. Nepal visa information for all categories of travelers and their correspondence cost can be very handy. For more information and contact details of the Nepali Embassies and Consulate worldwide,

Whichever way you enter Nepal, you will be given a 15/30/90-day visa as required. The general Nepal tourist visa fee on arrival for multiple entries is:

15 days – US$30, 30 days – US$50, and 90days – US$125

Tourist visas can be extended for a maximum of 150 days a year. These extensions are granted only at the Department of Immigration offices in Pokhara and Kathmandu. For more information on Nepal visas, visit our visa information page.

Our Trekking Guides/Leaders 

Here at Adventure Club, our staff is like family. We only use locals to support their communities and train our staff rigorously to be the best they can be – for you! 

  •  Full first-aid training
  • Guide Training (trekking)
  • English and other common languages (as requested) 
  • Village and Land Conservation 
  • Mountaineering (for specialty expeditions or climbing treks)

All our guides are carefully trained for leadership as good leadership is vital for your trek to be enjoyable, safe, and successful. Most of our guides grew up in Sherpa country or other mountainous parts of Nepal. Their pride in their region shows itself in the way they lead treks and interface with you. 

Porters Care

On any team, courtesy and respect are fundamental for an enjoyable and worthwhile experience. Our porters are an essential, integral part of each trekking team, and as such, they are well-treated and well-paid. After your trek, you will find that they have fully earned your gratitude and respect. We expect all trekkers to keep their baggage weight under 22kgs/40lbs. Adventure Club Trek maintains a full commitment to the rights of our porters, providing them with appropriate clothing, gear, and lodging. In case of serious accident or sickness, they receive the same care as anyone else employed on the trekking team, even including evacuation by helicopter at our expense if appropriate. We fully support the IPPG (International Porter Protection Group), which strives to maintain and improve our porter's working conditions.

Experience Required 

The Annapurna circuit route is the longest in this region and is a complete circle of the Annapurna massif. Comparatively, it is considered harder and longer in duration than the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. It is because hikers will walk across the high-altitude Thorong La Pass at 5,416m (17,764ft.). Besides the altitude, the steep climbs, long distances, and pared-down amenities make this trek hard. The route usually remains closed during winter due to the heavy snow accumulation on the trails. As it is a long trek, you must be in great shape and physically fit to walk for at least 5 to 7 hours each day. Even beginners can do this trek, provided they train themselves at least 3 months before the trek. Cycling, swimming, acrobatics, hiking, jogging, and cardiovascular exercises are ways to train your body for a successful journey in the Himalayas.

Travel Insurance 

To be adequately protected in terms of insurance, you will need specialist travel insurance for participation in hazardous activities. A travel insurance policy that covers helicopter evacuation, trip cancellation, injury, death, lost baggage, theft, liability, medical treatment, and expenses is strongly recommended. Ensure the insurance covers all the activities you will be undertaking during your stay in Nepal, such as trekking and climbing. Suppose you are injured and unable to travel. In that case, you can only ask for a rescue helicopter from a remote area if you have definite proof that you can pay for it. Adventure Club Trek has an agreement in Kathmandu that guarantees payment for helicopter evacuations. They pay a cash deposit to the helicopter operator and collect the money from you once you have been rescued. Be sure your policy specifically covers mountaineering or alpinism, or you may need help settling a claim.

Group Size And Team Composition 

We always form a small group of like-minded people to give them a wonderful and perceptive travel experience. It provides opportunities to interact and share in a fun-filled environment when out in the wilderness. Generally, our travel group comprises a maximum of 14 members. We need at least two participants to run our fixed departure dates. For private trips, the number of group members does not apply. We always strive to form a team, ensuring members are comfortable with one another.

Tipping 

Tipping is optional in Nepal as most services include a service charge. However, if you want to express your gratitude, you are free to tip drivers and hotel staff. People usually welcome such generosity. When tipping your porters or trekking leaders, use your discretion as per the quality of the services. Tip money does not form a part of our employees' wages. However, you can use tipping to show appreciation for excellent service at the end of the trip.

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