Top 12 Mountain Passes of Nepal in 2024: A Must-See Guide

Thorong La Pass-Annapurna Region

At an elevation of 5416m above sea level, Thorong La Pass is undoubtedly the most popular and thrilling mountain pass in the Annapurna Region. Khatung and Yakawa Kang are the two mountains that form this pass. This pass connects Manang, the home of Tibeto-Buddhists in the east, with the temple of Muktinath in the Mustang district in the west. It is the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Due to its high elevation, acclimatization is needed, and depending on the route taken, it can take about 12–16 days to conquer this pass. The best time to visit Thorong La Pass is in the spring when the sky is clear, providing a mesmerizing view of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Gangapurna, Annapurna, Machhepuchhre, and Langtang. Not only that, in spring, a variety of beautiful rhododendrons and other flowers also cover the trails, making them delightful to walk on.

Highlights of Thorong La Pass

• The highest mountain pass in the world is situated at an elevation of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet) above sea level.
• Breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri.
• Presents a challenging ascent with steep, rocky trails and more.
• Holds spiritual importance, representing a journey of self-revelation and individual accomplishment.
• Passing through traditional villages inhabited by Gurung, Thakali, and Manangi people.

Larkya La Pass-Manaslu Region

The Larke La Pass trek is an incredible adventure in the Manalsu region. You must cross challenging yet beautiful routes and villages to reach the Larke la Pass at 5,106 meters (16,752 feet). Crossing this high, elevated pass will test you to the core and give you a thrilling adventure in the Manaslu region. Crossing Larke La Pass is generally not an easy hike; it has its distinct difficulties. The terrain can be difficult to navigate and steep hikes can take a toll on the knees. Starting from the semi-tropical forest, followed by an alpine forest area and finally, an ice-field area and glaciers, trekking to Larkya La pass provides a diverse range of vegetation. The top of the pass gives visitors a stunning view of the world's 8th-highest mountain, Manaslu, and other mountain peaks. The hard work done for 17 days becomes worthwhile after seeing the view. 

Highlights of Larkya La Pass

• Located in the Manaslu region of Nepal, it reaches an elevation of 5,160 meters (16,929 feet) above sea level.
• It is home to a variety of wildlife, including the snow leopard, blue sheep, musk deer, and numerous bird species, providing opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.
• Breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including Manaslu, Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, and Ganesh Himal.
• Provides a unique blend of cultural heritage, hospitality, and diverse vegetation.
• The trail passes by several Buddhist monasteries, stupas, and prayer flags, adding a spiritual dimension to the trek.

Kang La pass-Annapurna Region

At an altitude of 5320m, Kang La Pass is located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is the highest point of the Upper Dolpo Trek. Between Shey Phoksundo Lake and Shey Gompa, the foot of the trail starts, which makes trekkers pass the magnificent forest and the trek to the top of the pass begins. This trek can be categorized as an expedition level too, because of its day-to-day covered long distances and unpredictable terrain. The geography of the valley is changing very fast in the interiors of the Kang-La glacier. At the top, a great view of Annapurna, Lamjung Himal, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, and Tilicho peaks can be seen. Sliding down the trail leads to another prime location in Dolpa, Shey Village. The pass allows travellers to explore Tibetan culture, beautiful and isolated villages, and a wide range of fauna and flora.

Highlights of Kang La Pass

• Situated in the Annapurna region of Nepal, it reaches an elevation of approximately 5,320 meters (17,460 feet) above sea level.
• Stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan range, including Manaslu, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II.
• Peaceful tea houses, lodges, and homestays are available along the route, offering basic accommodations and local cuisine.
• Providing opportunities to experience their rich cultures, traditions, and hospitality.
• Passing through beautiful landscapes of rhododendron forests, rolling hills, and snow-capped peaks.

Cho La Pass - Everest Region 

Cho La is a summit pass located 5,420 meters (17,782 ft) above sea level in the Solukhumbu District in northeastern Nepal. It connects the village of Dzongla (4830 m) to the east and the village of Thagnak (4700 m) to the west. Cho La Pass trekking is not for beginner trekkers. Navigating through loose boulders and torturous landscapes, guides and crampons are a must. With proper experience and training, the pass is possible to cross. This pass is at an altitude of 5420 m, which means there will be a lack of oxygen, making it difficult to breathe and taking an immense toll on the body. Cho La is tucked between two beautiful snow-capped mountains, Lobuche and Cholatse. This pass trail starts from Gokyo Lake, crosses the Ngozumpa glacier, ascends the 5480m Gokyo-Ri, and comes to the Cho La pass.

Highlights of Cho La Pass

• Situated at an altitude of 5,420 meters (17,782 feet) above sea level,
• Explore the charming Gokyo Village, Gokyo Ri, and the stunning Gokyo Lakes, a true natural wonder.
• Panoramic views of Himalayan peaks, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam, among others.
• Ngozumpa is also called "The World's Largest Glacier."
• Opportunity to interact with local Sherpa communities and experience their unique culture.

Ganja La pass - Langtang Region

Ganja La Pass is the main highlight of the Langtang Trek. The pass is at an altitude of 5130m and offers trekkers a wilderness adventure and a panoramic view of the mountains. This trail takes people off the busy Langtang trail and leads to the quiet and isolated trails of Helambu. The trail starts from Syabrubesi, passing many Tamang villages through the alpine vegetation to reach Kyanjin Gompa. After crossing the Kyanjin Gompa, trekkers reach the Ganja La pass. At the top, beautiful snow-capped mountains such as Mount Gaurishankar, Ganesh Himal, Yala Peak, Ganchempo, and Yala Peak can be seen. The people living in the Langtang region are a mixture of Tibetan, Tamang, and Sherpa communities, and living with them and tasting their unique cousins will be a different experience.

Highlights of Ganja La Pass

• Situated at an altitude of approximately 5,130 meters (16,752 feet) above sea level,
• Popular Langtang Valley trekking route, which takes trekkers through diverse landscapes, including lush forests, and high mountain passes.
• Trekkers have the opportunity to visit ancient Buddhist monasteries and caves, which are significant religious and cultural sites in the region.
• Trekkers need to obtain the necessary permits, including the Langtang National Park Entry Permit and the TIMS.
• Spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, including Langtang Lirung (7,227 meters), Dorje Lakpa (6,966 meters), and Langshisha Ri (6,427 meters), among others.

Kongma La Pass - Everest Region

Kongma La Pass, standing tall at an impressive height of 5,545 meters, is one of the highest adventure passes in the Everest region of Nepal. It is a challenging and rewarding trekking trail that offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. This pass is integral to the famous Three Passes trek in the Everest region and leads trekkers toward the iconic Everest Base Camp. With its staggering scenes and all-encompassing mountain vistas, the Kongma La Pass journey guarantees a significant and stunning Himalayan experience. Particularly breathtaking is the close-up view of the immense south face of Nuptse and the eastern face of Kongma La.

Highlights of Kongma La Pass

• Situated at an elevation of approximately 5,545 meters (18,159 feet) above sea level, it is one of the highest trekking passes in the Everest region.
• Pass through traditional Sherpa villages and offer a glimpse into the lives of the indigenous people of the Khumbu region.
• Offers trekkers a sense of adventure and achievement.
• Stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse.
• Kongma La Pass involves navigating steep and rocky terrain, as well as crossing a glacier.

Renjo La Pass - Everest Region

Renjo-La Pass Trekking is one of the most famous trekking routes in Nepal and offers the exploration of the remote but naturally rich areas of the Khumbu region. Renjo-La Pass (5360m) is one of the three high passes of the Everest region where the Gokyo lakes can be crossed. Renjo-La Pass Trek is a strenuous yet fulfilling trek that rewards the trekkers with Sherpa culture and the Himalayan landscape. You get to see Mt Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Aba Dablam, and other snow-capped peaks of the Khumbu region. Also, the route offers endangered animals like red pandas, snow leopards, and many more. The pass was once a trade route to Tibet when Sherpa people walked through these routes to cross Nangpa La and reach Tibet. The Gokyo and Renjo La Pass Trek have been the best alternative for Everest Base Camp Trek.

Highlights of Renjo La Pass

• Located in the Sagarmatha National Park, Renjo La Pass sits at an altitude of 5,360 meters (17,585 feet) above sea level.
• Offers a thrilling adventure with steep ascents, rocky terrain, and sometimes challenging weather conditions,
• Passes through several Sherpa villages, allowing trekkers to experience local culture, traditions, and hospitality.
• panoramic views of majestic Himalayan peaks including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, among others.
• Visit beautiful Gokyo ri and Gokyo valley
• Trekkers require necessary permits, including the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the TIMS

Lauribinayak La Pass - Langtang Region

Lauribinayak La Pass, at 4,610m, is the easiest among other passes, and this pass joins Gosainkunda with Ghopte. Lauri Binayak Pass Trekking leads you to the brilliant and holy Lake Gosaikunda trekking in the Langtang National Park. The pass is mainly visited by trekkers and pilgrims just to admire the pass’s grandeur and the Gosiankunda Lake. Most trekkers cross Lauribinayak La Pass from west to east while on the Gosainkunda Lake trek. This pass also forms the highest point in the Gosainkunda Lake trek, and by crossing this pass from the Langtang region, you will be entering the Helambu region. From the top of the Lauribinayak La Pass, you can see Langtang Lirung (7,234m), Manaslu (8,156m), Himal Chuli (7,893m), Ganesh Himal (7,422m), Dorje Lakpa (6,966m), and Gosainkunda (4,360m). 

Highlights of Lauribinayak La Pass

• Situated in the Langtang National Park, Lauribina La Pass stands at an elevation of approximately 4,610 meters (15,125 feet) above sea level.
• Offers spectacular panoramic views of the Langtang Himalayan range, including Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, and Ganesh Himal.
• Beautiful teahouses and lodges along the route provide accommodation and basic amenities for trekkers.
• Providing opportunities to experience local culture, traditions, and hospitality.
• Experience the popular Langtang Valley Trekking Route, connecting the Langtang Valley with the sacred Gosaikunda Lake and Helambu region.

Selele Pass - Kanchenjunga Region

Selele Pass, at 4,480m, is another remote and less visited pass in Nepal’s Kanchenjunga Region. It lies at the foot of Mt. Kanchenjunga (8586m), the third-highest peak, and connects villages like Ghunsa and Cheram. The features of the walk are pleasant villages, then, in the high regions, glorious mountains and abundant wildlife. You must trek to the base camp of Kanchenjunga and cross the pass. Your adventure to the pass begins with a flight to Biratnagar and Suketar. The trek begins from Suketar and stretches to stops like Chirwa, Sakathum, Amjilassa, Gyabla, Gunsa, Khambachen, Lhonak, Pangpema, and Selele Kharka. The final leg of the trek is a difficult ascent. But you know it; it's worth every step.

Highlights of Selele La Pass

• Situated in the remote Everest region, Sela La Pass stands at an altitude of approximately 4,480 meters above sea level.
• breathtaking panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and other Himalayan peaks.
• Explore the beauty of the village of Thame.
• Trekkers require permits, including the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the TIMS
• Crossing Sela La Pass offers trekkers an opportunity to explore remote wilderness areas.

Numa La Pass - Dolpo Region

Numa La Pass (5,306m) in the corner of the Dolpo region in Nepal is one of the lesser-known mountain passes. This means very few trekkers traverse the trekking trail to Numa La Pass. This pass is at 5,306 m, just above Numa La Base Camp. The trail sees very few trekkers trudging, and everything seems intact since the very first days. The surreal landscapes and sights of the Himalayas can awe anyone. The trek that takes you to the pass is the Lower Dolpo Trek. This trek features an itinerary of about 18 days from Kathmandu. The route to the pass lets trekkers explore Phoksundo Lake and ancient Buddhist villages and gain insights into the Bon Po religion. In a way, this trek is a one-of-a-kind adventure. The most challenging part of the trek is crossing Numa La Pass. From the pass, you can admire the views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Churen Range, Norbung Kang, and surrounding peaks.

Highlights of Numa La Pass

• Situated at an elevation of approximately 5,306 meters (17,408 feet) above sea level,
• Offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Kang Guru
• Passes through remote and pristine landscapes, allowing trekkers to experience the untouched beauty of the Himalayas.
• Offers opportunities to interact with local communities, such as the Nubri and Tsum Valley inhabitants, experiencing their unique culture, traditions, and hospitality.
• Crossing Numa La Pass offers trekkers a memorable and spiritually enriching journey.

Amphu Labtsa Pass - Everest Region

Amphu Labtsa Pass ( 5,845 meters) in Honku Valley is a glaciated pass. This pass serves as the route to the famous peak of the region. i.e., island region. Amphu Labtsa Pass Trekking is one of the most challenging treks in the Khumbu region. It requires a technically enhanced and experienced trekker to complete the trail. The trek to Amphu Lapcha Pass is through the upper Hinku valley. Amphu Labtsa Pass is a difficult pass because it is not only the summit of the high Himalayas but also the site of the famous historical exploration of monasteries, temples, and different lakes. However, many trekkers do a combined EBC and Mera climb or Mera Peak Climbing and Amphu Labtsa Pass. Similarly, some do the Amphu Labtsa Pass Trek with Island and Mera Peak and an itinerary of a week.

Highlights of Amphu Labtsa La Pass

• Situated in the Everest region, Amphu Labtsa Pass stands at an altitude of approximately 5,845 meters (19,177 feet) above sea level.
• Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Ama Dablam
• Thrilling adventure due to steep ascents, icy terrain, and potential crevasses
• Trekkers require permits, including the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit and the TIMS
• Beautiful teahouses and camping options are available along the route

Tashi Laptcha Pass - Rolwaling Region  

Tashi Laptcha Pass is a mountain pass in a remote part of eastern Nepal. This pass at 5,755m is considered a popular viewpoint that rewards magnificent views of the mountains, including Everest. The Upper Rolwaling Trek takes you to the pass, which leads you to the Rolwaling region, a popular region that hosts some of the most popular treks in Nepal. After crossing the pass, you will traverse into the Everest region. The trail takes you through the Sagarmatha National Park and Gauri Shankar Conservation Area. Tso Rolpa Lake, at 4183 m,  is one of the highlights of this trek. Among every other mountain pass in the Khumbu region, the Tashi Laptcha Pass is one of the most challenging passes. The pass combines both the Rolwaling and Khumbu valleys, offering a unique trekking experience.

Highlights of Tashi Lapcha La Pass

• Tashi Lapcha Pass stands at an altitude of approximately 5,755 meters (18,881 feet) above sea level.
• Offers stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks including Gauri Shankar, Melungtse, and Everest.
• Explore the way that the pass connects the Rolwaling Valley with the Khumbu region.
• Trekkers require permits, including the Gaurishankar Conservation Area Permit and the TIMS.
• Visit ancient  Monasteries, high passes, and lakes

Conclusion

Mountain passes make trekking much more challenging while providing exceptional views. High passes also help you understand the importance of these passes and the contrast in lifestyles of people living on opposite ends. Conquering these passes is physically demanding, but the views and overall experience are certainly worth it. Once you reach the top of these passes, you will discover what you were missing in your life, and hopefully, this will be a life-changing experience. 

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