Where Is Thorong La Pass?

Thorong La Pass is situated in the Annapurna region of Nepal and is amongst the world's highest and most difficult trekking passes. It has an impressive height of 5,416m (17,769 above sea level) is an integral part of the Annapurna Circuit and is among the most frequented trekking routes in Nepal. The pass itself provides breathtaking views of surrounding mountain ranges including the peaks of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and Machapuchare.

The Physical exertion of walking to reach the Thorong La is immense due to both the altitude and steepness of the climbs, making this trek a sound journey.

The pass is generally passed from east to west; trekkers first make their way from the village of Chame towards its base camp in Thorong Phedi and then trek up to its summit in one go. Most trekkers spend around 12-15 days on the trail of the Annapurna Circuit completing the trek and at the same concluding the itinerary with some appreciation of the varied geography.

Of course, the views are spectacular but the altitude may have a debilitating effect and trekkers must take precautionary measures. It is a physical challenge, but also a spiritual journey where the locals revere the Thorong La Pass as a holy place.

The trek that takes one across Thorong La Pass is not only adventuring filled with difficulties but also a spectacular chance for the trekkers to see the unexplored regions of the Himalayas.

Trekking Thorong La Pass: Challenges

The trek to the Thorong La is strenuous in the sense that there are severe cases of altitude sickness that can be experienced. As such, it is important to go through an adequate acclimatization process. The Annapurna Circuit is any trekker’s paradise as the trekkers move from very low subtropical forests and inhabited villages, over arid regions to high-altitude barren deserts. The cultural aspect of the region is also very impressive as the trekkers make their way through inhabitation of Gurung, Manangi, and Thakali peoples.

Though much is to be desired in terms of challenges on the trail, so too are the benefits. On such days, the trekkers have a panoramic view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges as well as the unrivaled glory of nature’s wonders in the landscape of snow -capped mountains, glaciers, and highlands and steppes forming the exquisite terrain.

The proposed Itinerary for the Annapurna Circuit passes through Thorong La Pass

On an average, the Annapurna Circuit trek is estimated to last between 12 and 13 days with variations depending on the trekkers’ pace and how long stays are at acclimatization points.

Below is a 14-day which at it’s conclusion, the circuit of Thorong La Pass should have been completed.

Day 1: From Kathmandu to Besisahar

Board a bus or private jeep from the Capital City Kathmandu and head towards Besisahar, Time – about 6-7 hours.

Stayed overnight in Besisahar.

Day 2: Besisahar – Bahundanda

Begin your trek from Besisahar and walk towards Bahundanda having altitude 1,300 meters.

Bahundanda – Overnight (4 to 5 hours of trekking).

Day 3: Bahundanda – Chamje

The next trek leads from Bahundanda to Chamje with an altitude of 1,410 metres.

Chamje – Overnight (4 to 5 hours of trekking).

Day 4: Chamje – Dharapani

In the same way, the trek leads to Dharapani with an altitude of 1,960 metres.

Dharapani – Overnight (5 to 6 hours of trekking).

Day 5: Dharapani – Chame

Also, the trek will go to Chame – an altitude of 2,710 meters.

Chame – Overnight (5 to 6 hours of trekking).

Day 6: Chame – Pisang

Continue from Chame to Pisang having an altitude of 3,300m.

Pisang - Overnight (5 to 6 hours of trekking).

Day 7: Pisang – Manang

Continuing the trek toward Manang village which has an altitude of around 3540 metres.

Overnight in Manang – 5 to 6 hours of trekking.

A day to relax in Manang acclimatize.

Day 8: Manang – Yak Kharka

The Yak Kharka which attains an altitude of 4,050m is the next destination.

Yak Kharka - Overnight (3 - 4 hours of hiking).

Day 9: Yak Kharka – Thorong Phedi

The next site is Thorong Phedi (4,450 meters) going through Yak Kharka.

Thorong Phedi - Overnight (3 - 4 hours of walking).

Day 10: Thorong Phedi – Thorong La Pass – Muktinath

The trek starts very early due to the fact that it is up a large peak; Thorong La Pass has an altitude of 5,416m.

Once the pass is reached, make the descend to Muktinath (3,710m) where one can rest overnight.

Long, tiresome day (8-10 hours of tari).

Day 11: Muktinath to Jomsom Trek

• Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2,700 meters).
• Overnight in Jomsom (5-6 hours of trekking).

Day 12: Jomsom to Pokhara

Take a flight or go by land from Jomsom to Pokhara.

Stop over in Pokhara for the night.

Day 13: Pokhara

Rest day in Pokhara which is a lovely lakeside town, which is in the lap of Phew lake, Sarangkot and World Peace Pagoda etc.

Day 14: Pokhara to Kathmandu

Drive or fly back to Kathmandu; the distance is 6-7 hours by road or 30 minutes by air.

Essential tips for trekking Thorong La pass

1. Acclimatization: Make sure you plan to stay for enough period to avoid altitude sickness. It is advisable to have regular resting days at high altitudes.
2. Physical Preparation: The trek shall be strenuous so it is advised that a person should do training exercises such as running and hill climbing and weight training just before the journey.
3. Packing: While travelling, the material should be packed for the essential purpose of trekking but warm jackets sleeping mats quality sleep, headlights and other essential mats, and a water purification stick should also be included.
4. Permits: A TIMS which stands for Trekkers' Information Management System and a permit for the Annapurna Conservation Area which is also known as ACAP will be needed. Both can be acquired in Kathmandu.
5. Weather: The right time to go on a trek is during pre-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons which fall in March to May or from September to November when the climate is steady.