Thorong La Pass Trek Overview & Highlights
Thorong La Pass trek, 5,416 m (17,769 ft), is one of the High-Altitude Adventure (Mountain passes) in the Annapurna region, which is perfect for an adventure holiday for those who are looking to challenge themself and enjoy the breathtaking mountain Annapurna Range and cross the Thorong La Pass .
Enjoy the Splendid view of the Annapurna Himalayan ranges while doing the Thorong la Pass Trek
On your Thorong La Pass trek, you will see the stunning panoramic views of iconic Annapurna Himalayan range peaks, including Mt Manaslu 8,163 m (26,781 ft), Annapurna II 7,940 m (26,049 ft), Annapurna III 7,555 m (24,786 ft), Annapurna IV 7,525 m (24,688 ft), Gangapurna 7,455 metres (24,459 ft), and Tilicho 7,134 m (23,405 ft), Khangsar Kang 7 485 m (24.557 ft), Chulu West 6,419 m (21,055 ft), Chulu East 6,584 m (21, 601 ft), Thorong la peak 5,416 m (17,769 ft), Mt Dhulagiri 8,167 m (26,795 ft), Nilgiri North (7061 m), Nilgiri Central (6940 m) and Nilgiri South (6839 m), Dhampus peak, Tukuche peaks many others. This condensed Thorong la Pass trekking offers a taste of the Annapurna Circuit trails peoples, lifestyles, and landscapes.
Thorong La Pass: The Highest Pass of the Annapurna Region
The pass connecting Mustang and Manang is Thorong La Pass at 5,416 m, at the base of Thorong Peak. The pass is the ultimate goal of the trekkers who do the Annapurna Circuit. To reach the top of the pass, trekkers need the strength and endurance to handle the cold and must start early in the morning from Thorong Phedi to reach another phedi. The pass is quite demanding and needs strong determination. The landscapes and scenery during the Thorong La Pass are truly outstanding. For the trekkers, the Thorong La Pass is a great achievement.
Thorong La Pass at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Elevation | 5,416 m (17,769 ft) |
| Location | Between Manang and Mustang districts, Annapurna Conservation Area, central Nepal |
| Trek it belongs to | Annapurna Circuit Trek |
| Typical crossing direction | East to west (Manang side up, Muktinath side down) — steeper and more common |
| Standard start points | Thorong Phedi (4,525 m) or High Camp (4,925 m) |
| Crossing time | 8–9 hours; start 3:00–5:00 a.m depends on the start points |
| Total circuit distance | 160–230 km depending on route/road use |
| Total elevation gain to pass | ~3,450 m from the trailhead |
| Typical trek duration | 12–18 days (13 days is most common; 10-day “modern” version possible) |
| Best seasons | Mid-October–mid-November (post-monsoon) and April–May (spring) |
| Closed/unsafe season | June–September (monsoon); December–February (heavy snowfalls cause the trails to be closed) |
Thorong La Pass Trek 12-Day Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu 1,350m (4,429ft)
Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, our representative will greet you and arrange transport to your hotel. After checking in, you will meet your trekking guide for a comprehensive trip briefing, permit verification, and final gear check before starting the Thorong La Pass adventure.
Day 02: Drive to Besisahar & Off-Road Jeep to Dharapani 1,900m (6,233ft)
Early in the morning, we begin our overland journey driving along the paved highway following the Trishuli River and Marsyangdi River. The route offers scenic landscape views of green hills, terraced paddy fields, and traditional rural settlements passing through Gajuri, Malekhu, Mugling, and Dumre. Upon reaching Besisahar, we break for lunch before switching to a local 4WD jeep for an exciting off-road drive through waterfalls, river beds, and cliffs to reach Dharapani.
Day 03: Trek from Dharapani to Chame 2,630m (8,628ft)
Today’s trek enters the cooler alpine zone of the Annapurna region. Crossing the villages of Bagarchhap and Danakyu, the trail ascends through pine and oak forests with stunning glimpses of Mt. Manaslu and Lamjung Himal. Passing through Timang, Thanchowk, and Koto (the gateway to the Nar Phu Valley Trek), we arrive in Chame, the district headquarters of Manang. Here you can find gear shops, banks, internet cafés, and natural hot springs by the riverbank.
Day 04: Trek from Chame to Lower Pisang 3,200m (10,498ft)
Leaving Chame, the trail follows the northern bank of the Marsyangdi River through pine woodlands and commercial apple orchards at Breatang. After crossing a suspension bridge, we make a steady climb up to Dhukur Pokhari for lunch. The path opens up to reveal views of the curved rock face of Paungda Danda alongside Annapurna II and Pisang Peak before arriving at Lower Pisang for our overnight stay.
Day 05: Trek to Manang via Gyaru & Ngwal High Route 3,540m (11,614ft)
This is one of the most scenic days on the Thorong La Pass Trek. Taking the upper high route via Gyaru requires a steep 1.5-hour zigzag ascent, rewarded by panoramic views of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. Continuing along high alpine contours to Ngwal for lunch, we then descend to the valley floor passing the historic monastery village of Braga before arriving in Manang.
Day 06: Acclimatization Day in Manang (Ice Lake Hike 4,600m)
Acclimatization is essential for a safe crossing of Thorong La Pass. You have two primary side-hike options today: an energetic climb up to high-altitude Ice Lake (Kicho Tal, 4,600m) offering incredible mountain views, or a shorter walk to Gangapurna Lake and the close viewpoint. In the afternoon, explore local bakeries or attend the altitude safety presentation held by the Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA).
Day 07: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka 4,050m (13,287ft)
Today is a shorter trekking day designed for gradual altitude gain. Starting from Manang, the trail climbs past Gunsang (3,800m) where vistas of Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak dominate the horizon. We hike smoothly into alpine terrain toward Yak Kharka, where blue sheep (Bharal) and herds of yaks are commonly seen grazing along the open hillsides.
Day 08: Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi 4,550m (14,927ft)
The journey ascends from Yak Kharka to Ledar before crossing a river suspension bridge into high moraine country. We take the safe upper route that avoids active landslide sections while delivering expansive mountain scenery. The trail gradually climbs up the valley floor to reach Thorong Phedi (or High Camp 4,850m depending on pace), where we turn in early to prepare for tomorrow’s early pass crossing.
Day 09: Cross Thorong La Pass 5,416m & Trek to Muktinath 3,800m
We start around 4:00 AM to beat the fierce high-altitude winds that develop later in the morning. The steady steep climb through icy or rocky moraine reaches Thorong La Pass (5,416m) in about 3-4 hours. After celebrating at the prayer-flag covered summit, a long 1,600m descent leads to the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath, home to revered Hindu and Buddhist temples.
Day 10: Drive from Muktinath to Pokhara via Kali Gandaki Valley
After visiting Muktinath Temple in the morning, we take ground transport (local bus or private jeep) through the Mustang district and down the world’s deepest gorge, the Kali Gandaki Valley. Passing traditional Apple orchards and mountain towns like Jomsom, Marpha, Kalopani, Tatopani, and Beni, we reach the lakeside city of Pokhara in the evening for a relaxing stay.
Day 11: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu 1,350m (4,429ft)
In the morning, we board a tourist bus or private vehicle to return to Kathmandu along the scenic Prithvi Highway. The drive traces the Marsyangdi and Trishuli river banks, offering last views of Nepal’s rural countryside, terraced farms, and hillsides. Transfer to your Kathmandu hotel upon arrival.
Day 12: Final Departure from Kathmandu
Your 12-day Thorong La Pass Trek journey concludes today. Based on your flight departure schedule, our airport representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international flight home.
Thorong la pass trek cost
Thorong la pass trek 12 days cost vary from $453, $725 and $850 for Budget, Standard and Comfort Scheme. For budget travellers, we have a Budget price which is quite economic. We have standard and comfort prices which are good for the travellers who want to enjoy their holiday maximum without any worries. The cost has different elements to know more let us know or have a look here.
Budget Price $400 | Standard Price $725 | Comfort Price $850 |
|---|---|---|
IncludesGuide, Porter, Local bus to Besisahar, Local bus to Tatopani, Jeep to Pokhara, ACCAP Permits, TIMS permits, Tourist bus to Kathmandu, Government tax and company service chargeExcludesFood and Accomodations, Drinks, Tea, Coffee, Drinking water, Desert and all others which not in Includes above | IncludesGuide, Porter, Food and Accommodations, Local bus to Besisahar, Jeep Tatopani, Jeep to Pokhara, ACCAP Permits, TIMS permits, Tourist bus to Kathmandu, Government tax and company service chargeExcludesAlchoholic Drinks, Tea, Coffee, Drinking water, Desert and all others which not in Includes above | IncludesGuide, Porter, Food and Accommodations, Tea and coffee for 4-5 cups each day, Local bus to Besisahar, Jeep Tatopani, Jeep to Pokhara, ACCAP Permits, TIMS permits, Tourist bus to Kathmandu, Government tax and company service chargeExcludesAlchoholic Drinks, Drinking water, Desert and all others which not in Includes above |
Quick Inquiry
Thorong la pass trek cost includes
- Kathmandu international airport transfer by private vehicles.
- Local Public Microbus to Besisahar from Kathmandu takes about 7-8 hours
- Meals on full board: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner each day during the trekking days, if possible we try to give the attached Bathrooms
- Guest house basis trekking accommodation while on trekking days
- Jeep Transportations to Tatopani from Muktinath
- Tourist Bus transfer from Pokhara to Kathmandu for guest and guide.
- Fully escorted trek with fluent English speaking license holder local guide and each 2 guest 1 Porter basis
- Annapurna conservation Area Project Permits
- Seasonal Fruits in the Desert after Dinner
- First Aid Box
- TIMS Permit
- All land transportation as per written on above itinerary
- Food and accommodation and salary of Nepali trekking staffs
Cost excludes
- Nepal entry visa fee cost US$ 40.
- Lunch and Dinner during the staying in Kathmandu and Pokhara city.
- Any kinds of battery charges, laundry service, phone calls and hot shower during the trekking.
- Personal trekking equipment and Clothing.
- Personal nature expenses, any drinks and bar bills.
- Your travel insurance (it is mandatory in case of emergency).
- Any donation and monuments entrance fees.
- Tips for the crew (Note : TIPS is not compulsory but highly expected)
- Any other things which are not mentioned above
Thorong la pass trekking highlights
- Annapurna Massif Ranges: The Thorong la pass offers stunning views of the Annapurna range, including Annapurna I (8,091 meters), Annapurna II (7,940 meters), Annapurna III, and Annapurna IV as well as many other peaks which are visible from the trails
- Lush Green Valleys: The lower trails of the trek are subtropical forests and terraced fields, with lush green valleys and rice paddies.
- Alpine Forests and Alpine landscapes: Above the sub-tropical area beyond Tal and Dharapani you can enjoy the alpine landscapes with rhododendron and pine forests, especially around the villages of Koto, Thanchowk, Chame and Bhartang.
- Arid High Desert: Beyond Manang, the landscape changes dramatically to a high-altitude desert, giving you a vibe like a Tibetan Plateau, with barren hills and unique rock formations.
- Glacial Valleys: As you climb the Thorong La Pass, you’ll trek through glacial valleys with stunning views of snow-capped peaks.
- Tilicho Lake: The Tilicho Lake is a side trip which requires 3-4 days extra on your original plans, This is the highest glacial lake in the world and is a must. The turquoise waters of the lake set against the backdrop of snow-capped Tilicho mountains are truly mesmerizing but sometimes the lake can be even full with the snow or ice as well.
- Muktinath Temple: A holy pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhist devotees. The temple complex has a sanctum of Lord Vishnu, a Buddhist monastery above, and 108 water spouts which originate from the mountains.
- Hot Springs in Chame and Tatopani: During and after the trek there is a very hot natural spring which has therapeutic benefits to the body and gives trekkers relaxation.
- Kali Gandaki Gorge(the deepest gorge in the world): The Kali Gandaki Gorge is one of the deepest gorges in the world based on the top of the two highest mountains Mt Annapurna and Mt Dhulagiri. The rivers flow in a very unique pattern which is great to see.
- Cultural Villages:
Manang: A picturesque village and perhaps the most beautiful village along the annapurna circuit trails. Manang is a great place to acclimatize, enjoy the coffee, and bakery and explore the local culture. The village offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks such as Annapurna III, IV and Gangapurna Lake.
Chame: the headquarters of Manag which offers the perfect view of Mt Manaslu and Mt Lamjung Himal.
Marpha: If you have a plan to walk from Marpha it is another great village which is also known as the “Apple Capital of Nepal,” Marpha is famous for its apple orchards, apple products (like cider and brandy), and traditional whitewashed houses.
Jomsom: A major hub in the Mustang region, Jomsom is known for its windy conditions and serves as a gateway to the Upper Mustang. - Poon Hill (Optional Side Trip): The complete Thorng la pass also includes the Poon Hill which needs 2 more days on your trek plan and offers spectacular panorama of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
- Flora and Fauna: The Annapurna Conservation Area is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. You may spot wildlife such as blue sheep (in an upper Area around the thorong la), Himalayan tahr, and various species of birds. The region is also known for its rich biodiversity, including rare orchids and rhododendrons.
- Local Culture and Traditions: The trek trails pass through several traditional villages inhabited by ethnic groups such as Gurungs, Thakalis, and Manangis, each with its own unique culture, traditions, and hospitality. You’ll have the opportunity to visit monasteries, chortens, and prayer wheels, and experience the local way of life.
- Buddhist Stupas and Monasteries: Throughout the Thorong La Pass trek, you’ll see numerous Buddhist stupas, monasteries, chorten, and prayer flags. This adds a spiritual dimension to your journey.
- Numerous Glacial Rivers and Waterfalls: The trek crosses the passes through several glacial rivers and waterfalls, adding to the landscape’s natural beauty.
- Ice lake 4600 meters: Another adventure hike offers magnificent views of the Annapurna ranges and you can reach the glacial lakes at an altitude of 4600 meters.
- Mountain views of Mustang: Magnificent view of Mt. Dhaulagiri 8167 Meter, Nilgiri 7600 Meter, Annapurna 8091 Meter, Annapurna south 7219 Merer, Tukuche peak, Dhampus peak, Gurja peak, Thapa peak and many other countless peaks. The highlighted one is the Holy Mountain Fishtail 6953 Meter.
Thorong la pass trek facts
Facts | Figure |
|---|---|
| Duration: | 15 Trek days, 1 day drive back to Kathmandu 2 days Arrival and Departure total 18 days but can be customize |
| Max. elevation: | 5416 M/17, 769 Feets Thorong la |
| Elevation gain/loss | 10,100 m (33,136 ft) |
| Length of Trekking trail distance | Approx 131 kilometres (81 miles) |
| Start | Ngadi, Chame, Dharapani |
| Ends | Pokhara, Tatopani or Jomsom |
| Difficulty: | Adventure |
| Best Time: | Spring and Autumn Season |
| Permits: | TIMS and ACCAP Permits |
| Accommodation | Tea House |
Thorong la pass trek permit
Permit Types | Nationality and Price |
|---|---|
| ACCAP Permits | Necessary for all the foreigners expect SARRC Nations cost of the permit is 30$ |
| ACCAP Permits | For SARRC Nations cost of the permit is 10$ |
| TIMS Permit for all Nations | 20$ for the TIMS all nations expect SARRC Countries |
| TIMS Permit for SARRC Nations | 10$ for the SARRC Nations |
Thorong la pass Trek Photos
How High Does the Thorong la Pass Trek reach
Thorong La Pass trek’s maximum height is 5,416 m (17,769 ft) on the top of the Thorong La Pass which is the highest point of the trek. This is one of the highest passes in Nepal. Most of the trekkers can make it to the Thorong la Pass because of the adjustment in the altitude from Manag. And height before Manag too. If you directly go to that height you may suffer from Altitude mountain sickness but resting and sleeping lower than that height most people can do Thorong la Pass. Yes, it is quite harder to get there and you have to push yourself quite harder here to do this. Once you start walking from Thorong High camp the altitude gradually grows, as altitude grows you also lose your energy so at the last near Thorong La Pass you will be like energy fewer people.
Thorong La Pass trek weather and best time to do it
Spring and Autumn season are 2 best seasons to do the throng la pass trek. Most of the trekkers want to know how Thorong la pass trek weather is and which is the best time to do the Annapurna circuit (Thorong la pass) trek? Well, there is different weather in different months. Here we have described how the weather looks like month-wise to do Thorong la pass trek .
Months | Description |
| January | This is the coldest and worst time to trek Thorong la pass. The weather this month is not that nice, since it is the coldest month of the year, the temperature is very cold and the temperature goes from -30 to onwards in the morning time on Thorong la pass top. |
| February | It is Second worst time for the weather, Cloudy, snow falls and cold temperatures down are very normal in this month but from the end of February the trekking season starts. |
| March | this is a good month for trekking, the first week of march is not that pretty but later on the temperatures grow and you can see the marvellous view of Himalayas. The sky becomes clean blue. |
| April | Another best month for a trek in Nepal, Slowly the temperatures in the mountains grow more than in March and the sky remains mostly blue. |
| May | The last month of the spring season with the fantastic weather, there is less chance of rain and the sky is very clear, you can mountain very clearly as well as the trail is also open most of the trekking trail. |
| June | Now the monsoon season starts in Nepal, The rainfall is common in this month, with the frequent rainfall, you can not see the mountain very clearly and the weather remains also cloudy this month. Mustang Trek can be done this month. |
| July | the main monsoon month of Nepal, the trekking experience is not good because of the rainfall, flood and leeches. |
| August | The last month of the monsoon season, but rainfall is also expected during this month. You can not get a good experience from the trek. |
| September | Usually half of the September months there will be rainfall, due to rainfall leeches problem happens in the trek. Due to overclouds, you can not see a good view of the mountain but by the end of September, the trekking experience might be good, if the weather becomes good. |
| October | The best month for trekking to Nepal is not only the Thorong la pass because the weather becomes exceptional in this month. It is very sunny weather with none expectation of rainfall. You can see the best view of mountains and landscape. This is the busiest month in Nepal for trekking tourism. |
| November | is the second-best month in the autumn season but the last of November is the pre-season of winter. Yet you will get the best trekking experience in Nepal Himalayas because the sky is clear this month usually. |
| December | the beginning of December is quite good to do trekking but it depends on also luck some years whole of December gets a clear sky while another year does not. Also if the weather becomes bad then there might also be snowfalls in the mountains. |
In conclusion, there are two best seasons one is Spring(March, April, and May) and another is Autumn(October and November) is the best time to do the Thorong pass trekking. Please see above for selecting the best time for you to the Annapurna circuit trekking
Thorong la pass trek temperature
Thorong la pass trek temperature depends on the months that you do trek here for example December end to January to Mid February this are the coldest months for the trekking to Thorong la pass. The temperatures early in the morning around the Thorong la top can be -25 degree Celsius to on-wards. If there are winds then this might be even more. Here is forecasted temperature chart for the 4 seasons.
Months | Description |
| Winter season (December, January and February) | The maximum day temperatures if there is a sunny day then, it would be around +10 to +18 and in the early morning around 4 o’clock the maximum coldest temperatures would be around -25 degree Celsius to on-wards. |
| Spring season( March, April and May) | This is the second busy season of trekking in Nepal and even in Thorong la or Annapurna circuit as well. The weather remains good this month but the minimum temperatures in the early morning might be -10 degree Celsius to -25 degree Celsius and during the day the temperatures can be +10 degree Celsius and on-wards. |
| Monsoon season( June, July and August) | Not the good months for the trekking, most of the time it rains so due to the rain the day temperature might be the +5 degree Celsius and on-wards, then in the early morning it might be -10 degree Celsius to on-wards. |
| Autumn season( September, October, November) | This is the best season to trek in Annapurna. Not only Annapurna but all the mountains of Nepal, due to pure visibility and pleasant weather this month are best to gain the trekking experience. Thorong la pass in this month is really good to do due to the stunning view and perfect temperatures. The daytime temperature might be the +10 Degree Celsius on-wards when there is sunshine and early in the morning it might be – 10 degree Celsius then more. |
How difficult is Thorong la pass trekking?
Many trekkers and hikers willing to do the thorong la pass want to know the Thorong la pass trek difficulty, well we have given our perspective on how difficult it is to do the thorong la pass here.
- Everyday you need to hike around 6-7 hours on a tough trekking route, up and downs are very normal.
- The maximum elevation you sleep is around 4800 Meter on high camp.
- The Pass is quite longer, you need to trek 5 hours from the Throng High camp to reach the throng la top.
- Altitude mountain sickness can happen to anyone during this trek but the chances are only 2% people will not be able to make the thorong la pass.
- After Manag you might not get the good sleep due to the Altitude mountain sickness.
- The Maximum elevation you need to be is 5416 Meter (thorong la top)
- There are enough days to acclimatize, so you don’t need to worry about acclimatizing.
Based on that, you need to prepare to walk 6-7 hours in a day in a high altitude area of Nepal.
Thorong la pass trek FAQ
Reviews
TripAdvisor Review Google ReviewVäl genomförd vandring av Annapurna Circuit Trek.
Jag gick Annapurna Circuit Trek i maj 2024. Inför vandringen hörde jag av mig till Nepal Trek Hub. Nepal Trek Hub hjälpte mig ordna tillstånd, transporter, boende och mat. De var snabba på att svara och bra att samarbeta med när jag planerade min resa.
Vandringen genomförde jag tillsammans med min guide Ashish. Ashish var professionell och hjälpsam. Han var bra på att ge relevant och intressant information under vandringen och bra sällskap under vandringen. Kan starkt rekommendera att vandra med Ashish!
Mycket nöjd med min vandring och kan varmt rekommendera Nepal Trek Hub.
Annapurna Circuit - ten days customized trek. Among beautiful landscapes...and nepali flat! :)
We met the owner Shreeram and our guide the evening before for a briefing.
They were really kind and offered us a pick up service at the airport.
They arranged the trek based on our request (longer than usual short-Annapurna circuit, but shorter than the entire route), for ten days – transfer from Kathmandu and to Pokhara included.
We are very grateful to our guide Krishna and the porter Maila, they were kind, patient and very professional. We had the chance to know them deeper sharing meals together. For future trekkers: enjoy your trek and the people you’re walking with also by eating with them, it will add value to your experience! :)
Sharing is caring! Bring with you snacks and comfort food to share with others – it will happen to meet also kids on your path, they will be very happy, especially with chocolate! :)
Shreeram checked on us several times if everything was going alright during the trek.
It has been a pleasure to enjoy all these beautiful mountains with them!
Annapurna circuit trek
Just returned from the Annapurna Circuit trek with a group of friends, and the experience has been nothing short of amazing! It would not have been possible without our awesome tour guide, Shreeram, and our two strong porters (who happen to look like Korean twins btw), Dev and Surendra.
Personally, I like to engage a local guide when trekking especially in unfamiliar places (this was our group’s first time in Nepal as well as doing such a long trek!), because I’d like to think that the local guides know the ins and outs of the trail better; making sure safety is the utmost priority while not compromising on the view and experience