Tourism Regd. No: 579/058
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Annapurna Circuit Trek Without Tilicho Lake- 15 Days

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Trip Facts

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Trip Duration 15 Days
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Trip Difficulty Moderate
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Max. Altitude 5,416 meters (17,769 feet)
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Group Size 2-16 People
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Meal Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner during the trip
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Accommodation Hotel, Tea house, Lodges
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Destination Nepal
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Activity Trekking & Sighseeing
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Vehicle Private Vehicle, Car

Highlights of Annapurna Circuit Trek Without Tilicho Lake

  • Hike to the highest peak of the trek Thorong la Pass (5,416m),.
  • Stunning views of the other highest mountains such as Machapuchre(fishtail)
  • Explore a beautiful, peaceful environment and Tibetan-influenced Manang Valley.
  • Visit the most known and famous Hindu and Buddhist sacred pilgrimage site, Muktinath Temple.
  • Trek through the diverse landscapes including terrains, subtropical forests, and high-altitude deserts.
  • Be a part of the cultural experience of the rich ethnic groups influenced by Tibetan traditions.
  • Visit the ancient Buddhist monasteries along the way to Manang and Mustang
  • Therapeutic hot springs at Tatopani. Relax after the long trekking days.
  • You have the option to take a detour to Poon Hill

Trip Overview

Annapurna Circuit Trek Without Tilicho is a well-known trekking destination in Nepal. It is a bucket of an awesome and beautiful journey through the lush array of landscapes, cultures, and breathtaking Himalayan views. The trek usually begins from the little town of Besisahar and goes on to complete the full circle around the Annapurna Circuit through dense forests, high alpine meadows, and multi-ethnic settlements, finally reaching the flourishing city of Pokhara.

This is one of the most exciting things about the Annapurna Circuit Trek Without Tilicho Lake: the diversity of different ethnic groups. The trekkers are now exposed to the Gurung, the Thakali, and the Manangi cultures. Each keeps a distinct tradition of life heavily influenced by Tibetan customs. The top areas of the journey are inhabited mainly by the Manangis, evoking interesting pictures from their Tibetan Buddhist life. The lower parts are mainly Gurung areas, famous for their bravery and hospitality. The trek is thus not only a physical journey but also an exploration of culture through rich tapestries of traditions, languages, and customs related to this cultural diversity.

Life along the Annapurna Circuit trek without Tilicho Lake changes rapidly, from lush subtropical forests down low, teeming with rhododendron trees and bamboo, to temperate zones populated by oaks and pines at higher elevations, then changing smoothly into an upper alpine scrub where the landscape turns hard and rocky. Still, moss and alpine flowers thrive in very inhospitable conditions. These places also offer wildlife enthusiasts an opportunity to catch a glimpse of the snow leopard, the Himalayan tahr, and several bird species, including the colorful Himalayan monal, Nepal’s national bird.

Walking through Thorong La Pass is one of the most exciting moments for many trekkers not including travelling to Tilicho Lake on the Annapurna Circuit Trek. This highest point of the trek, up to 5,416 meters (17,769 feet), offers excellent views of surrounding peaks including Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. The thrilling part of this trek is that though it is difficult, one feels satisfied to have achieved it on completion of the pass. The beauty of the Himalayas plus the physical toughness of the pass makes this a gem of trekking experience.

The Manang Valley since it is popular with trekkers as a place they acclimatize before attempting the Thorong La pass is yet another major feature of the Annapurna Circuit Trek Without Tilicho Lake. The valley is famous for its lovely villages, splendid vistas of mountains, and Tibetan Buddhist temples. Another special place is a tiny, remote settlement called Muktinath, which boasts a famous Buddhist-Hindu temple. Thus, Muktinath has become a source of a spiritually uplifting experience, as pilgrims from both faiths visit and bathe in this temple.

Explore Tilicho Lake Trek

Annapurna Circuit Trek Without Tilicho Lake Itinerary

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The trek begins with a dreamy journey from Kathmandu to Besisahar on the first day of the Annapurna Circuit Trek without Tilicho Lake. Roughly between 6 and 8 hours, the journey will pass through flat areas of farms, tiny settlements, and hillsides covered in vibrant green. It goes along the course of the rapidly flowing Marsyangdi River. The river flows ever under the peaks of the Annapurna Range, seemingly touchable, at times looking almost close to grasp. Once you reach Besisahar, you have time to rest and prepare for tomorrow’s trek forward to Bahundanda.

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Duration

6-8 hours
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Max Altitude

823m
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Meals

Breakfast
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Accommodation

Local Teahouse

Includes & Excludes

What is included?

  • Transportation from and to the airport
  • 3 Star hotels, tea houses, and lodges accommodation
  • Three meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
  • Security and Assistance such as experienced and professional guides and potters
  • Cultural experience with ethnic groups such as Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi
  • Trekking equipment is included
  • Any emergency Aid is included
  • Fees and Permits

What is excluded?

  • This trek excludes any detour to Tilicho lake.
  • Missing the Tilicho Lake detour means you will not visit some of the isolated Tibetan villages
  • Extended trek duration are not accepted.
  • It avoids the additional altitude challenges and difficulties with higher elevations.
  • Extra hotel statins before and after the itinerary are excluded.
  • The trek bypasses the excessively remote areas of the Annapurna Region.
  • Extra costs for personal items are excluded.
  • Besides the regular offerings additional meals and drinks are excluded.
  • Tips and offerings are excluded.

Trip Information of Annapurna Circuit Trek Without Tilicho Lake

Best Time for the Annapurna Circuit Trek without Tilicho Lake

The best seasons for the Annapurna Circuit Trek without Tilicho Lake are considered the Spring season (March to May) and the fall season (September to November). These months carry a bright sky, moderate temperatures, and less rain or snow. The spring offers a plethora of blooming rhododendron groves, and after subsequent rain, the fall offers jaw-dropping mountain views. In this back-to-back contrast, most trekkers will unquestionably find the hike a leisurely yet enjoyable one due to the harsh temperature conditions in either season.

Elevation, Distance, and Maximum Altitude for the Annapurna Circuit Trek without Tilicho Lake

The Annapurna Circuit without a detour to Tilicho Lake covers total distances that range between 160 and 230 kilometers, depending on the choice of trails. The pass at Thorong La, the highest on this trek, tops out at 5,416 m (17,769 ft), and the trek passes through various terrain, from alpine meadows to subtropical forests, providing superb all-around views of the towering peaks.

Altitude Acclimatization for the Annapurna Circuit Trek without Tilicho Lake

Trekking at high altitudes can be termed as one of the key hazards, particularly in the rugged Annapurna region, where people hike above 5,000 meters almost every day. Setting one’s body with proper rest is a must for acclimatization through the upcoming days near Manang and Yak Kharka. Altitude sickness can range from headaches to illnesses like acute mountain sickness and high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE) or high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE).

Difficulties and Altitude Sickness

The Annapurna Circuit Trek without Tilicho Lake requires difficult walking days, steep climbs, and challenges due to high altitudes. The toughest environment will be after crossing the Thorong La Pass, as it lies at the highest elevation with severe walking terrain. The scenario of thinning of the air and diminishing oxygen content is very typical for elevations over 3500 meters with altitude sickness. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and weakness. The hiking have to keep an eye on their body and stick to acclimatization standards to reduce these risks. If the hiker has health issues while climbing up the rising altitudes, then the hiker should descend.

Maximum and Minimum Walk Per Day for the Annapurna Circuit Trek without Tilicho Lake

Trekkers typically walk 5 to 8 hours a day on Annapurna Circuit, covering a distance of between 10 to 20 kilometers per day depending on the terrain. While some days are more relaxing and shorter, others require more hours of walking to reach the next high altitude. The hike gets harder with each passing day once the hiker nears the Thorong La Pass, especially on the very last day on the trekking side.

Fitness Level and Preparation

Despite it being moderate to difficult, the Annapurna Circuit calls for fitness but not competent mountaineering. If you have been able to practice walking or hiking plenty at the higher elevation then this Annapurna Circuit Trek without Tilicho Lake will not be very hard for you. There could be a few basic low-impact exercises for your body to be more ready for hiking. More beneficially, trekking in rough conditions or even higher altitudes. Develop a relevant mental attitude and get your body ready for the whole trek; if you can balance these things, this would be a fine hike for you.

Accommodation, Food, and Drink for the Annapurna Circuit Trek without Tilicho Lake

Accommodation options extend from basic teahouses to cozy resorts on this trek. Teahouses offer simple twin-bed rooms with shared bathrooms. Conventional Nepalese food, including dal bhat (lentil soup and rice), momos (dumplings), noodles, and potato curry, is usually served at these places. Delicious as it is, the diet might become beneficial as the food and drinks are served in novelty series or main dishes by several teahouses. You should drink loads of water; water is available in places, but play safe. Bottled water is the safest, or other purifying tablets can be obtained in the market. Food and drink costs, as expected, rise with the heights and elevation during the trek.

Guide and Porter

Guided assistance is highly recommended but not required. It is especially necessary for first-time trekkers. Assists from guides and porters in navigating through the trail while passing information regarding both terrain and culture can be very helpful in the Annapurna circuit trek without Tilicho. Meanwhile, porters can ease the stress and make the physical act of trekking much more enjoyable by carrying a section of your load. Both guides and porters can be hired; nevertheless, it is very important to choose one from very reliable organizations or careful individuals to ensure professionalism and safety.

Transportation and Insurance

Most trekkers prefer to fly into Kathmandu, followed by a trip by bus or vehicle from Kathmandu to Besisahar or Bhulbhule, where the Annapurna Circuit starts. Up to the beginning of the circuit, plenty of local transportation options such as buses, jeeps, minibusses, and taxis are accessible. Travel insurance for all trips in Nepal is always recommended. For the Annapurna Circuit Trek without Tilicho Lake at high altitudes in particular, it is a must-have. Included in the policy are; medical bills, lost property, trip delays, and emergency evacuations. It’s important to understand the conditions of your policy before departure.

Alternative Routes

The hiker has several trails and variations to explore different terrain, even though the classic Annapurna Circuit route is still immensely popular. One significant option is the Lower Annapurna Circuit, which omits the highest view of Thorong La Pass but provides many differing views. Another possibility awaits those who decide to stay in the Annapurna region but would prefer a completely new outlook that provides views of the Annapurna: The Annapurna Base Camp Trek.

Visa and Permit Cost for the Annapurna Circuit Trek without Tilicho Lake

You will need a tourist visa to enter Nepal, which you can apply for while in Nepal or at a Nepali embassy in your home country. The cost of the visa will depend on the duration of your stay. For certain trekkers opting for Annapurna, it is necessary to possess an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and a Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card- both obtained, in addition to your visa, if you intend to trek in the Annapurna region. You can easily get permission for trekking in the area either in Pokhara or in Kathmandu.

What to Expect from the Annapurna Circuit Trek without Tilicho Lake

With breathtaking views of the highest pinnacles in this world, Annapurna Circuit promises to provide an extraordinary trek through diverse landscapes ranging from lush subtropical forests to dry, high-altitude alpine deserts. The trip itself will be both mentally and physically challenging, principally in crossing the high Thorong La Pass. Upon returning home, you will look back and find it one of your greatest accomplishments, and spare not a thought for the living proof and realities that you have experienced en route in Nepal. A test for the strength of your body is sure to come; however, the memories and beauty come out as priceless.

Frequently Asked Questions

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  • Best Price Guarantee
  • Secure Online Booking
  • Flexible booking dates
  • Owner operated company
  • Decades of experience
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