Annapurna Circuit Trek with Upper Mustang
Overview
The Annapurna Circuit, Tilicho Lake & Upper Mustang Trek – 21 Days is one of Nepal’s most diverse and adventurous Himalayan journeys, combining three incredible experiences into a single unforgettable trek. This route takes you through the legendary Annapurna Circuit, the breathtaking Tilicho Lake (4,919m), the challenging Thorong La Pass (5,416m), and the remote, culturally rich landscapes of the Upper Mustang region.
Starting from Kathmandu, the trek follows the Marsyangdi River valley through beautiful Gurung and Tibetan-influenced villages, lush forests, alpine landscapes, and high mountain trails. After crossing Thorong La Pass, the journey continues into Mustang, known as Nepal’s “Last Forbidden Kingdom,” where you will explore ancient monasteries, mysterious cave settlements, colorful cliffs, and the historic walled city of Lo Manthang.
With stunning Himalayan views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and Mustang Himal, this trek offers a perfect combination of adventure, culture, nature, and wilderness. It is an ideal choice for trekkers seeking a challenging yet rewarding Himalayan experience beyond the classic trekking routes.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Detailed breakdown of your trekking journey
Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. You can rest, explore the vibrant streets of Thamel, and prepare for your upcoming Annapurna Circuit, Tilicho Lake, and Upper Mustang adventure.
After breakfast, we begin our adventure with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Chame via Dumre and Besisahar. The route follows the Trishuli and Marsyangdi River valleys, passing terraced farmland, waterfalls, and traditional villages. From Besisahar, we continue by private jeep through Jagat, Dharapani, and Gurung settlements before reaching Chame.
Our trekking journey begins through beautiful pine forests alongside the Marsyangdi River. We pass Bhratang village with its famous apple orchards, cross suspension bridges, and gradually ascend towards Pisang while enjoying views of Annapurna II, Pisang Peak, and Lamjung Himal.
We follow the scenic upper Annapurna trail through Ghyaru and Ngawal villages. The route offers breathtaking views of Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak while experiencing ancient monasteries and Tibetan-influenced mountain culture before arriving in Manang.
Today is reserved for acclimatization before heading to higher elevations. We explore Manang village and take a short hike to Gangapurna Lake, Chongkor Viewpoint, or Ice Lake while enjoying spectacular Himalayan scenery.
Leaving Manang, we follow the trail towards Tilicho Lake through Khangsar village. The route passes alpine meadows, yak pastures, and peaceful mountain landscapes with views of Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Chulu peaks.
We trek through dramatic high mountain terrain and cross landslide sections before reaching Tilicho Base Camp. The challenging trail rewards us with incredible views of Tilicho Peak and the surrounding Himalayan wilderness.
Early morning, we hike to Tilicho Lake, one of the world's highest glacial lakes. Surrounded by snow-covered peaks, the turquoise lake offers one of the most spectacular Himalayan experiences before returning to Shree Kharka.
We reconnect with the main Annapurna Circuit trail and continue through alpine meadows, yak grazing areas, and rugged mountain landscapes towards Yak Kharka, preparing for the Thorong La Pass crossing.
The trail gradually climbs through Ledar and Thorong Phedi before reaching Thorong High Camp. We rest and prepare for the challenging crossing of Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the trek.
Today we cross the famous Thorong La Pass, enjoying panoramic views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Mustang Himal. After crossing the pass, we descend to the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath.
After visiting Muktinath Temple, we drive through the dramatic landscapes of Lower Mustang towards Kagbeni, the ancient village and gateway to the Upper Mustang Restricted Area.
We enter the restricted Upper Mustang region and drive through Chele, Syangboche, Ghami, and Tsarang. Along the way, we explore ancient monasteries, colorful cliffs, and traditional Tibetan villages before reaching Lo Manthang.
We leave the historic walled city of Lo Manthang and trek through remote valleys and desert-like landscapes towards Yara village, experiencing the untouched beauty and culture of Upper Mustang.
Today we explore the ancient Luri Cave Monastery and Tashi Kabung Cave, famous for their Buddhist murals, meditation chambers, and centuries-old Himalayan heritage before returning to Yara.
We continue our trek through colorful canyons, isolated valleys, and dramatic Mustang landscapes before reaching Tange village, a traditional settlement surrounded by stunning cliffs.
This is one of the most adventurous trekking days as we cross Pa Pass and descend towards the Kali Gandaki Valley. The route offers incredible views of remote Mustang landscapes.
We drive through Kagbeni and the Kali Gandaki Valley towards Jomsom. Enjoy magnificent views of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, and the unique landscapes of Mustang.
We leave the mountain region and drive through the world's deepest Kali Gandaki Gorge, passing waterfalls, forests, and traditional villages before arriving at the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara.
After breakfast, we drive back to Kathmandu along the scenic Prithvi Highway or take an optional short mountain flight. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel.
Our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport according to your flight schedule. We wish you a safe journey home with unforgettable memories from your Annapurna Circuit, Tilicho Lake, and Upper Mustang adventure.
Cost Details
Cost Includes
- – Three meals per day during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner).
- – Tea/coffee is included with breakfast during the trekking period.
- Accommodations
- – Two nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu in a comfortable hotel on Bed & Breakfast (BB) basis.
- – Accommodation during the whole trek will be in clean tea-houses/lodges on a twin-sharing basis.
- – Rooms include beds, normal foam mattresses, blankets, and pillows, but bathrooms and toilets are generally shared.
- – Accommodation during the trek will be basic but the best available in the trekking regions.
- Trekking Staff
- – One experienced English-speaking trekking guide (Government licensed/trained) including:
- – Guide’s salary
- – Guide’s food and accommodation
- – Transportation expenses
- – Insurance and required allowances
- Porter service:
- – One porter for every two clients (2:1 ratio).
- – Porter’s salary, food, accommodation, and insurance included.
- – Each porter carries a maximum load of 15–20 kg.
- – Waterproof duffle bag will be provided for your personal luggage during the trek.
- Permits & Documentation
- – All necessary trekking permits and official documentation.
- – Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
- – Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit (RAP).
- – National Park / Conservation Area entry permits where required.
- – Insurance coverage for all Nepalese trekking staff.
- – All government taxes, VAT, and official company service charges.
- Transportation
- – Busstop pick-up and drop-off service by private vehicle.
- – Kathmandu to Chame transportation by public vehicle as mentioned in the itinerary.
- – Muktinath to Kagbeni transportation.
- – Kagbeni to Lo Manthang transportation through Upper Mustang.
- – Chhusang to Jomsom transportation.
- – Jomsom to Pokhara transportation.
- – All required ground transportation during the trip according to the itinerary.
- Trekking Equipment
- – Trekking poles during the trek.
- – Waterproof duffle bag for luggage.
- – Micro spikes (if required according to weather and trail conditions).
Cost Excludes
- International airfare and Nepal visa fees.
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu.
- Personal travel insurance (Essential – should include emergency evacuation coverage up to the highest trekking altitude).
- Emergency helicopter rescue and evacuation costs.
- Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, internet/Wi-Fi, battery charging, snacks, and extra services.
- All beverages including mineral water, hot water, soft drinks, alcoholic drinks, and bar bills.
- Hot shower charges during the trek.
- Personal trekking equipment and gear.
- Sleeping bag (available on request).
- Extra accommodation, meals, or transportation due to delays caused by weather conditions, natural disasters, strikes, road blockages, flight cancellations, or other unforeseen circumstances.
- Entrance fees, local donations, or sightseeing fees not mentioned in the package.
- Tips for trekking guides, porters, drivers, and other staff (expected at the end of the trek based on service satisfaction).
Payment Terms
Advance Deposit Payment (40%): 40% advance payment is needed to ensure your booking.
Balance (60%): Balance payment has to be made prior to the tour departure date as agreed upon at the time of booking.
Such procedure guarantees your booking while providing an opportunity for additional payment arrangements.
Equipment Lists
- 01. Head & Face
- – Sun hat or warm woolen hat
- – Sunglasses with UV protection
- – Headlamp with extra batteries
- – Neck warmer / scarf / buff
- – Sunscreen (SPF 30+ or higher)
- – Lip balm with sunscreen
- – Lightweight towel
- 02. Upper Body
- – Moisture-wicking thermal base layer (inner layer)
- – Fleece jacket or warm sweater
- – Down jacket (recommended for high altitude)
- – Waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
- – Trekking shirts (2–3 pieces)
- – Long-sleeve shirts
- – Comfortable hiking jacket
- 03. Lower Body
- – Thermal inner pants
- – Trekking pants (2–3 pairs)
- – Waterproof trekking pants
- – Comfortable underwear
- – Hiking shorts (optional for lower regions)
- 04. Hands & Feet
- – Warm gloves (inner + outer waterproof gloves recommended)
- – Trekking socks (4–5 pairs)
- – Warm wool socks for high altitude
- – Hiking boots (well broken-in and waterproof)
- – Camp shoes / sandals
- – Gaiters (recommended for snow conditions)
- – Micro spikes (recommended for Thorong La Pass depending on weather conditions)
- 05. Trekking Gear
- – Trekking poles
- – Waterproof duffle bag (provided by Apex Himalaya)
- – Day backpack (30–40 liters)
- – Sleeping bag (optional, available on request)
- – Backpack rain cover
- – Water bottle or hydration bladder
- – Headlamp
- – Dry bags for organizing luggage
- 06. Personal Accessories
- – Passport and extra passport copies
- – Travel insurance documents (including emergency evacuation coverage)
- – Personal medication and first aid items
- – Water purification tablets or filter
- – Camera and extra batteries
- – Power bank
- – Universal travel adapter
- – Mobile phone
- – Small lock for luggage
- – Personal toiletries
- – Toilet paper and wet wipes
- 07. Medical & First Aid Kit
- – Personal medicines
- – Painkillers
- – Bandages and adhesive tape
- – Blister treatment items
- – Antiseptic cream
- – Diamox (Acetazolamide) for altitude sickness (consult your doctor before use)
- – Electrolyte packets
- 08. Recommended Packing Tips
- – Pack light and carry only essential items.
- – Keep important documents, money, and electronics in your day backpack.
- – Use waterproof covers or dry bags to protect your belongings.
- – Dress in layers as temperatures change significantly from lower valleys to high-altitude areas.
Note:
Note: Apex Himalaya Treks & Expedition provides a waterproof duffle bag and trekking poles during the trek. Other personal trekking equipment should be brought by the client or can be rented/purchased in Kathmandu.
Additional Information
Best Season
The best seasons for the Annapurna Circuit, Tilicho Lake & Upper Mustang Trek are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is stable, skies are clear, and the Himalayan mountain views are spectacular. Winter trekking is possible but requires proper preparation due to cold temperatures, snowfall, and possible challenges while crossing Thorong La Pass. Monsoon season (June to August) is less recommended because of rainfall, muddy trails, and possible road disruptions.
Required Fitness Level
This trek requires a good level of physical fitness and endurance as it involves long walking days, steep ascents, high-altitude terrain, and crossing Thorong La Pass at 5,416m. Trekkers should be prepared to walk approximately 5–8 hours per day on varied landscapes including rocky trails, mountain paths, and high-altitude areas. Previous trekking experience is helpful but not mandatory. Regular walking, hiking, and cardio training before the trek are highly recommended.
Visa Information
Travelers should carry:
A valid passport with at least 6 months validity.
Passport-size photographs.
Visa fees according to the required duration of stay.
Travel Insurance
Travelers should carry:
A valid passport with at least 6 months validity.
Passport-size photographs.
Visa fees according to the required duration of stay.
Important Notes
Thorong La Pass crossing depends on weather, snow conditions, and the overall safety situation.
Upper Mustang is a restricted region requiring a special permit for entry.
Accommodation during the trek is provided in basic but clean teahouses/lodges with shared bathroom facilities.
Proper acclimatization and hydration are important to reduce altitude-related risks.
Personal medication should be carried, and consultation with a doctor before high-altitude trekking is recommended.
Trekkers should maintain flexibility as Himalayan trekking conditions can change quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Trip Summary
Need Help?
Have questions about this trip? Our team is here to help!
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