High Passes treks in Nepal
The term “high passes trekking” typically refers to the trekking or hiking adventure in mountainous regions. It indicates the high points or gaps between the mountainous paths that cross from one side of a mountain range to another valley. These points are often located at higher elevations compared to the surrounding areas and involve challenging terrain, including steep ascents and descents, rocky paths and potentially adverse weather conditions. Therefore, trekkers should be physically and mentally fit and must have previous trekking experience.
The high passes treks in Nepal is a demanding trekking routes that traverse high mountain passes and offer close up views of the Himalayas as well as provide a chance to experience the local culture and traditions of the Himalayan region. The high passes trekking is appropriate for adventure enthusiasts who admire thrilling hiking adventures in the high- altitude landscapes of Nepal. Altogether, it is a golden opportunity for all the trekkers willing to hike in the high altitudes, walk in the Himalayan Glaciers, and cross the passes filled with ice along the high mountains. Here are some of the notable high pass treks in Nepal:
1) Everest three passes trek
The Everest three passes trek is considered one of the most popular and challenging trekking experiences in the world. It provides an opportunity to explore the remote and less- visited areas of the Everest region. The three high mountain passes that you will cross during this trek are:
* Kongma La Pass (5535 meters / 18159 feet)
Region: Everest region
Favorable time: Autumn and spring season
Starting point: Lukla
Permits: Sagarmatha National park permit and TIMS card
Nearest landmarks: Chukhunga & Lobuche
Kongma La Pass, situated at an elevation of 5535 m above sea level, is known for its challenging and adventurous nature. It is located in the Khumbu region between the villages of Chukung and Lobuche. Even though it is not categorized as technical, the Pass is more strenuous among the three passes due to its steep and rocky terrain. However, the Kongma La Pass offers stunning panoramic views of Mount Everest (8848 m), Nuptse (7861 m), Lhotse (8516 m), Makalu (8481 m), Ama Dablam (6812 m) and others. It also provides a distinctive vantage point to appreciate the surrounding landscapes and glaciers.
* Cho La Pass (5420 meters / 17782 feet)
Region: Everest region
Favorable time: Autumn and spring season
Starting point: Lukla
Permits: The Sagarmatha National park permit and TIMS card
Nearest landmarks: Gokyo valley & Thagnak village
Treks related with Pass: Gokyo Chola Pass trek Via Everest base camp
Cho La Pass, situated at an elevation of 5420 m above sea level is a notable feature of the Everest three passes trek, lies between the villages of Dzongla and Thangnak on the way from Gokyo valley to the EBC area. This pass is graded as technical and need to use crampons and ice axes in certain conditions. It involves steep and rocky terrain and depending on the season, it may be snow- covered and icy. Like the other passes on this trek, you get to see close up views of surrounding mountain peaks, including Everest (8848 m), Cho Oyu (8201 m), Lhotse (8516 m), Ama Dablam (6812 m), Nirekha Peak (6151 m) and many more. You can also witness the Ngozumpa Glacier- one of the largest glaciers in the Himalayas.
* Renjo La Pass (5340 meters / 17520 feet)
Region: Everest region
Favorable time: Autumn and spring season
Starting point: Lukla
Permits: Sagarmatha National park permit and TIMS card
Nearest landmarks: Gokyo & Lumde
Treks related with Pass: Gokyo Lake trek
Renjo La Pass, situated at an elevation of 5340 m above sea level, is consider the easiest pass among the three because there are almost no glaciers and ice while crossing it, still involves steep and rocky terrain. It offers trekkers impressive views of the surrounding mountain peaks, including Everest (8848 m), Cho Oyu (8201 m), Makalu (8481 m), Nuptse (7861 m), Rolwaling Himal (7181 m) and other high Himalayan peaks. The pass provides unique vantage point to appreciate the astonishing Gokyo Lakes (five Turquoise Lake) and the Ngozumpa Glacier.
2) Thorong- La Pass (5416meters / 17769 feet)
Region: Annapurna region
Favorable time: Autumn and spring seasons
Starting point: Bhulbhule
Permits: ACAP permits and TIMS card
Nearest landmarks: Yak Kharka and Muktinath
Treks related with Pass: Annapurna Semi circuit trek via Thorong La Pass
Thorong La Pass (5416 m), one of the highest trekking passes in the world. The pass is formed by two mountains i.e. Khatung Kang (6484 m) and Yaskawa Kang (6482 m). It is one of the key highlights of the Annapurna circuit trek, in the Annapurna region of the Himalayas in Nepal. The pass is located in the Manang district, in the Annapurna Conservation Area. It connects Manang and Muktinath while divides the two distinct river valleys (Marsayangdi and Kali Gandaki) of the region. The pass provides heart appealing panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, including peaks like Annapurna Ⅰ, Ⅱ,Ⅲ, and Ⅳ and Gangapurna (7455 m), Machhapuchhre (6993 m) and Langtang Lirung (7234 m) as well.
3) Larkya- La pass trek (5106 meters / 16748 feet)
Region: Manaslu region
Favorable time: Autumn and spring season
Starting point: Soti Khola
Permits: Manaslu Restricted Area permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) & Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP)
Nearest landmarks: Bimtang & Dharmashala
Treks related with Pass: Manaslu Larke Pass with Tsum valley trek, Manaslu trek via Larke Pass
Larkya La pass is one of the highest mountain passes in the world, located in the Manaslu region of Nepal. It is located between Dharmashala (Larke Phedi) and Bhimthang. Reaching an elevation of 5106 m offers most spectacular panoramic views of the Manaslu (8156 m), Larkya Peak (6249 m), Ratna Chuli (7128 m), and many surrounding mountains. The pass is considered a significant point along the Manaslu circuit trek, which is known for its natural beauty and cultural experiences. During this trek, you will get a chance to hike through wide range of terrain, from lush forests and terraced fields to rocky and rugged alpine landscapes. Along the way, you will encounter rivers, waterfalls, and meadows. Moreover, the trek takes you through remote villages inhabited by indigenous Tibetan communities, providing an opportunity to witness traditional way of life of local.
4) Kang- La Pass (5320 meters / 17454 feet)
Region: Annapurna region
Favorable time: Autumn and spring season
Starting point: Chame
Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) & TIMS card
Nearest landmarks: Kang La Pass & Yak Kharka
Kang La pass is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 5320 m, situated on the popular Annapurna circuit trekking route that encircles the Annapurna Massif and offers incredible views of the Himalayan Mountains, diverse landscapes, and a rich cultural experience. It is located between Nar Phu valley and Manang. Crossing Kang La Pass is a fulfilling accomplishment for trekkers seeking an adrenaline rush and a sense of achievement. The pass offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including Annapurna Ⅱ, Annapurna Ⅳ, Gangapurna (7455 m), Manaslu (8156 m), Tilicho (7134 m), and Himlung (7126 m). Along with the mountains views, you will also get a chance to see magnificent views of the Annapurna region and opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique culture and traditions of the local communities. You will encounter a variety of flora and fauna and trek from lush green forests and terraced fields to alpine meadows and high- altitude deserts. Furthermore, from the Kang La Phedi of Nar Phu, you will reach on the top of the pass. Then, you can continue your journey to Ngawal village after crossing this spectacular pass. It is considered a restricted area, and was opened for trekkers in 2003. Therefore, special permit is required to reach there.
5) Ganja- La Pass (5122 meters / 16804 feet)
Region: Langtang region
Favorable time: Autumn and spring season
Starting point: Syabrubesi
Permits: Langtang National Park Entry Permit & TIMS card
Nearest landmarks: Kyangin Ri & Gosainkunda
Ganja La Pass (5122 m) is one of the notable landmarks in the Langtang Himalayas of Nepal. This pass offers breathtaking views of the Langtang Lirung and other peaks in the Langtang Himalayan range. The sight of these majestic peaks is a memorable experience. Similarly, the pass involves steep climbs, rocky terrain, and potentially changing weather conditions, providing a physically demanding but rewarding adventure for experienced trekkers and mountaineers. Along the trek, you will have the opportunity visit Kyanjin gompa, interact with local and enjoy traditional Tamang culture and their way of life. Additionally, rhododendron forests, bamboo groves, and various wildflowers are common sights during the trek.
6) Amphu Lapcha Pass (5845 meters / 19177 feet)
Region: Everest region
Favorable time: Autumn and spring season
Starting point: Chukhung
Permits: Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Entrance Permit, Sagarmatha National Park Permit & Makalu Barun National Park Permit
Nearest landmarks: Chukhung & Amphu Lapcha base camp
Treks related with Pass: Mera Peak Summit with Ama Lapcha Pass trek
The Amphu Lapcha Pass is in the eastern part of the Khumbu region, close to the border with the Makalu Barun National Park. The pass offers scenic views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Ama Dablam. It is one of the famous passes of the region, which is mainly done with the Island peak climbing or Mera peak climbing. The crossing of Amphu Lapcha pass involves glacial travel, ice climbing, and steep descents, so it’s essential to have some technical climbing skills and equipment, such as ropes, crampons, and ice axes. In general, it is a remote and challenging trek that rewards you with incredible mountain scenery and a sense of adventure, with fewer trekkers along the trail, allowing for a quieter and more peaceful journey. You will also have the opportunity to visit monasteries and interact with the friendly Sherpa community.
7) Teri La Pass (5577 meters / 18297 feet)
Region: Mustang region
Favorable time: Autumn and spring season
Starting point: Chuksang
Permits: Upper Mustang Special Permits & TIMS card
Nearest landmarks: Nar Phu valley & Mustang
Teri La Pass standing at an altitude of 5577 m is used to be a salt trade route between the Kingdom of Lo- Upper Mustang and Nar Phu valley. It lies in the eastern Upper Mustang of Damodar Himal, close to the Tibetan border. From the Teri La Pass, you will witness some of the famous mountains like Annapurna range, Damodar Himal, Dhaulagiri range, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and many more.
8) Sele La Pass (4290 meters / 14071 feet)
Region: Kanchenjunga region
Favorable time: Autumn and spring season
Starting point: Sele La camp
Permits: Restricted Area Permit & Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project
Nearest landmarks: Ghunsa & Cheram
Treks related with Pass: Kanchenjunga base camp trek via Sele La Pass
Sele La Pass is a significant mountain pass located in the Kanchenjunga Conservation area of the eastern Himalayas and connects the villages like Ghunsa and Cheram. Its center main and south peaks are situated in Nepal while the north peak lies in Sikkim India, and a portion of the region is also shared with Bhutan. A large portion of the mountain is covered with snow glaciers feeding through a large network of Sapta Koshi River in Nepal and Tista River in India. However, both the major climbing peak routes and the best trekking trails are lies on Nepal’s side. You can witness the panorama of the peaks like Kanchenjunga, Chang Himal, and Jannu Peak while crossing this pass and a pristine high- altitude lake called Sele Lake or Sela Tal. Before crossing this pass most of the trekkers first prefer trek to Kanchenjunga base camp. This trekking route takes you via dense rhododendron forests, juniper forests, and moss which provide particularly stunning views.
9) Salpa Pass (3350 meters / 10991 feet)
Region: Makalu region
Favorable time: Autumn and spring season
Starting point: Tumlingtar
Permits: National Park Entry Permit and TIMS card
Nearest landmarks: Arun valley & Milke Danda
Treks related with Pass: Arun valley Salpa trek, Makalu Salpa pass trekking
Salpa pass at an elevation of 3350 m, is located between the Sagarmatha and Makalu Barun National Park in Makalu region just above Arun valley towards Lukla. The trail of the Arun Valley and Salpa pass is blessed with unique ecosystem and the area is dominated by Makalu Barun National Park. You will get a chance to witness spectacular views of rhododendron forests, shrubs and bushes, chirping birds, and sense of alluring fragrance of pine trees and gentle noise of stream. The pass gives spectacular views of Everest (8848 m), Mera Peak (6364 m), Makalu (8481 m), Kanchenjunga (8586 m), Chamlang (7319 m), and other stunning mountains of the Mahalangur range.
10) Mesokanto La Pass (5099 meters / 16729 feet)
Region: Annapurna region
Favorable time: Autumn and spring season
Starting point: Jomsom
Nearest landmarks: Luri Gompa & Lo Manthang (Upper Mustang)
The Mesokanto La Pass, stands at an elevation of 5099 m, is known for its challenging and less- trodden trekking route in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It offers more off- the- beaten- path experience compared to some of the more popular treks in the Annapurna region, like the Annapurna base camp (ABC trek) or the Annapurna circuit trek. The pass is located in the northern part of the Annapurna region, close to the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. It offers scenic views of Manaslu (8156 m), Dhaulagiri (8167 m), Nilgiri (7061), Annapurna south (7219 m), Annapurna Ⅰ, and Annapurna Ⅱ. In general, this journey will takes you through a pristine and remote area of the Annapurna region, offering spectacular mountain views and a wilderness experience.
11) Tashi Lapcha Pass (5755 meters / 18882 feet)
Region: Rolwaling region
Favorable time: Autumn and spring season
Starting point: Drolumbau Glacier
Permits: Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit, Sagarmatha National Park Permit, & Pasang Lhamu Municipality Permit
Nearest landmarks: Thame & Nyiduk Kongma
Treks related with Pass: Rolwaling valley trek via Tashi Lapcha Pass, Tashi Lapcha Pass trek
Tashi Lapcha Pass stands at an elevation of 5755 m, situated between the Rolwaling valley to the west and the Khumbu valley to the east. The pass links the Rolwaling region with the Khumbu region in three days from Naa village, making it a unique way to explore two different regions in one journey. You will get a chance to explore some of the famous landmarks of the region, like Namche Bazaar, the largest glacial lake in Nepal- Tso Rolpo Lake (4183 m), and the summit of the Tashi Lapcha pass itself. You will also encounter challenging ascents, descents, and the potentially technical ice and snow crossings. The passitself can be covered in snow and ice so technical gear is often required for crossing it. Additionally, the pass offers breathtaking panoramic views of the towering peaks like Gaurishankar, Dorje Lakpa, Melungtse, and more which are truly awe- inspiring. You will also have the opportunity to visit and interact with traditional Sherpa villages, experiencing their unique culture, customs, and hospitality.
12) Lauribinayak La Pass (4610 meters / 15125 feet)
Region: Langtang region
Favorable time: Autumn and spring season
Starting point: Ghopte
Permits: TIMS card & Langtang National Park Entry Permit
Nearest landmarks: Gosaikunda & Kutumsang
Treks related with Pass: The Gosaikunda Lake and Helambu trek via Lauribinayak Pass
Lauribinayak La Pass is often included as part of the Langtang valley trek or Gosaikunda trek, providing an opportunity to explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Langtang region. The pass is located just above the sacred Gosaikunda Lake so most of the trekkers and pilgrims visit the pass only to admire the pass grandeur and the Gosiankunda Lake. Once you reach the pass at an elevation of 4610 m, you will be rewarded with eye- catching views of Langtang Lirung (7234 m), Dorje Lakpa (6966 m), Himal Chuli (7893 m), Ganesh Himal (7422 m), Gosaikunda (4360 m), and Manaslu (8156 m). Similarly, you can also see some mountains on the Tibetan side, if the weather is clear. The trek also takes you via Langtang National Park, where you might encounter rhododendron forests, various rare and endangered animals like musk deer, Himalayan wild goats, snow leopards, and, of course, panoramic mountain views.
13) Numa La Pass (5310 meters / 17421 feet)
Region: Dolpo region
Favorable time: Autumn and spring season
Starting point: Numa La base camp
Permits: Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit & Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit
Nearest landmarks: Phoksundo Lake & Ringmo
Treks related with Pass: Lower Dolpo circuit trek
Numa La Pass is a high mountain pass in the northwestern part of Nepal, in the Shey Phoksundo National park and it is a part of the popular Dolpo trekking circuit, in the Dolpo region. The pass sits at an elevation of 5310 m, just above the Numa La Base Camp. The pass is an excellent vantage point to observe the majestic peaks (Kanjiroba Himal and Dhaulagiri range) and valleys of the region. Moreover, you will reach the pass by doing Lower Dolpo trek where you can explore the traditional Buddhists villages, Bon Po religion, and Phoksundo Lake. Phoksundo Lake is one of the deepest lakes in Nepal and incredible turquoise gem amidst the rugged terrain.
In conclusion, the high passes treks in Nepal ensure a sense of solitude and adventure, making it an ideal choice for all who are seeking a break from the bustling world and a deeper connection with nature. Most of the high passes treks often involve ascending to altitude well above 4000 meters. Remember that it is no easy feat to climb to these passes so all the trekkers should be patient enough to take necessary rest days, ascend gradually to allow your bodies to adjust to the thin air, have the right gear and clothing, and be prepared to support and help your fellow team members in case of challenges. Once you reach the top, the welcoming view itself is enough to reward you for your effort and fatigue.
Besides the passes mentioned above, there are several other spectacular mountain passes you can encounter while traversing Nepal’s beauty and engaging treks throughout the various trekking regions. Each passes have its’ own charm and have been spicing up the journey for trekkers as it offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and arduous climb. If you are also looking for an exciting experience, do make plans to cross one of these appalling mountain passes with us to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience in Nepal as we have licensed guides, porters, cooks, and climbing guides to undertake these passes treks successfully.