What Really Happens at 5,416m : Crossing Thorong La Pass

Have you ever dreamed of experiencing what it feels like standing above the clouds and surrounded by dozens of snow-capped peaks, with the crisp mountain air filling your lungs? That’s exactly what awaits you at Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the world-famous Annapurna Circuit Trek at 5,416 meters above sea level. This breathtaking mountain pass connects the remote village of Manang to the sacred town of Muktinath, offering panoramic views of the Annapurna Mountain Range, Dhaulagiri, and other Himalayan giants.

Crossing Thorong La Pass isn’t just about trekking. It's a true test of endurance, patience, and determination. The higher you go, the thinner the air gets, and each steps require extra effort, but the reward at the top is like nothing else on the planet. You’ll get a sweeping 360-degree view that makes you feel humbled and empowered.

With over 12+ years of my hands-on guiding experience and more than 10,000+ km walked across Nepal's breathtaking Himalayas, I’ve led hundreds of trekkers across this legendary pass. At Nepal Boundary Trekking Agency, our goal is always to make the journey safe, unforgettable, and life-changing. And as your virtual guide today, I’ll walk you through what to expect at 5,416 meters above sea level.

Where Thorong La Fits in the Annapurna Circuit

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most scenic and iconic adventurous routes of Nepal. This offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and high-mountain beauty. This trail surrounds the Annapurna Mountain Range, taking you from green valleys to remote villages and finally into dramatic high-altitude terrain.

You’ll conquer the highlight of the trek at Thorong La Pass, reaching the impressive height of 5,416 meters (17,769 ft). It connects the Manang Valley to the arid landscapes of Mustang, which makes it not just a physical crossing, but also a dramatic one.

Most trekkers (myself included, when guiding) cross it east to west, starting from the Manang Annapurna Circuit side. This direction offers more gradual acclimatization, which is definitely essential for comfort and safety.

Preparing in Manang — The Calm Before the Climb

After days of trekking through villages like Pisang, you’ll arrive in Manang, one of my favorite stops on the route. At 3,540 meters, Manang is a perfect place to rest and acclimate to the mountain atmosphere.

Here’s what I usually recommend to trekkers:

1. Take at least one full rest day for acclimatization.

2. Enjoy short hikes to Gangapurna Lake or the Ice Lake for better altitude adaptation.

3. Try the famous local bakeries. You can get a surprisingly good apple pie here

4. Learn a bit about the culture. Manang is a fascinating mix of Tibetan and Nepalese traditions.

This pause not only prepares your lungs but also allows you to fully absorb the beauty of the Annapurna Mountain Range before tackling the high pass.

From Manang to High Camp: Building the Ascent

The trail gradually climbs through alpine meadows and yak pastures after leaving Manang. You’ll pass Yak Khara and then reach Thorong Phedi, the last stop before the pass. Some trekkers continue a bit further to High Camp to shorten the next day’s climb.

From my experience guiding more than a thousand trekkers, pacing here is critical. The air gets thinner with each and every step, so I always remind trekkers to walk slowly, breathe deeply, and enjoy the view. This is where altitude sickness can happen. So paying attention to your body is important.

Crossing Thorong La Pass

This is the day that you have been waiting for. We usually start early morning at 3-4 AM, under the sky full of stars. It’s cold, but the early start helps avoid the strong winds later in the day.

The climb is steady but relentless. You’ll climb up slowly and stop often to catch your breath. At the time of sunrise, the peaks of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre glow golden. That golden view of those peaks is worth every step and effort that you put into climbing. In that moment, exhaustion fades into exhilaration. You’re standing on one of the world’s highest trekking passes, with 360-degree views of the Himalayas and the Mustang Valley below.

The Descent to Muktinath

Reaching the pass feels like a victory, but the work isn’t over yet. The descent to Muktinath is long and can be tough on the knees. The environment becomes warmer and drier as you keep descending.

Muktinath itself is a fascinating mix of spirituality and tradition. For Hindus and Buddhists, this temple is a sacred pilgrimage site (known for its eternal flame and 108 water ponds. It’s a beautiful place to rest, reflect, and soak in the culture after such an intense day.

Tips from My 12+ Years of Experience Across Thorong La Pass

Over the years, I’ve learned that preparation makes all the difference:

1. Best Months: Late March–April and mid-October–November for stable weather and clear skies.

2. Gear Essentials: Down jacket, warm gloves, gaiters, trekking poles, and a headlamp.

3. Fitness: Train for both ascent and descent; leg strength and endurance are key.

4. Hydration & Nutrition: Drink plenty of water and eat energy-rich snacks even if you’re not hungry.

5. Listen to Your Body: If symptoms of altitude sickness appear, descend immediately.

Why This Trek is More Than Just a Hike

Crossing Thorong La Pass isn’t just about ticking off a high-altitude milestone. It’s about immersing yourself in the changing landscapes. From lush rhododendron forests to rocky cliffs and finally to the dry, windswept Mustang desert.

It’s about meeting the warm-hearted people of the mountains, sharing a cup of tea in a teahouse, and learning about centuries-old traditions that still thrive here.

And it’s about testing yourself, physically, mentally, and emotionally, and discovering that you’re capable of more than you imagined.

At Nepal Boundary Trekking Agency, I've helped over 1,000 trekkers from around the world experience this magic safely and meaningfully. Whether you're a first-time trekker or a seasoned mountaineer, I'd be honored to guide you to those unforgettable moments at 5,416 meters.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: How many people have climbed Annapurna?

A: Thousands of climbers have successfully summited Annapurna I, which is 8,091 meters (26,545 feet) high. However, it is considered one of the most dangerous 8,000-meter peaks due to its steep slopes and high avalanche risk.

Q: Why is Annapurna so dangerous?

A: Annapurna is considered dangerous because of its steep slopes, frequent avalanches, and unpredictable weather. The mountain’s technical difficulty and high altitude increase the risk for climbers, making it one of the deadliest 8,000-meter peaks in the world.

Q: How much does it cost to climb Annapurna?

A: Climbing Annapurna typically costs between $800 and $2000 per person. The cost includes permits, guides, porters, equipment, accommodation, and logistics, but it can vary depending on the expedition company, duration, and level of support provided.

Q: Can you do the Annapurna Circuit on your own?

A: Yes, you can do the Annapurna Circuit independently, but it requires careful planning. You’ll need to arrange permits, accommodations, food, and navigation yourself. Hiring a local guide or porter is recommended for safety, especially if you’re unfamiliar with high-altitude trekking or remote areas.