Thorong La Pass Trek

Have you ever thought of going to one of Nepal’s most sought trekking destinations which is also one of the longest passes in the world? We are talking about the Thorong La Pass Trek. You can make your trekking dreams come true.

Thorong La Pass is sought by trekkers all around the world because of its fun, adventurous, and naturally beautiful elements. This trekking destination is suitable for every trekker who has a decent fitness level and for those who love adventures. We are calling out the adrenaline junkies here!

Going to the Thorong La Pass Trek is going to be a memorable and once-in-a-lifetime kind of journey for you. While we have said everything, you might be wondering if the journey is going to be as tough. To this, the answer is, that the difficulty level is moderate and your physical and mental preparation has a big role to play in determining how challenging your trek is going to be.

In the Himalayas, this trek is all about connecting trekkers with the routes and locations they have always been seeking. If you want to get away from your busy life at least once, then Thorong La Pass Trek is perfect for you!

Overview of Thorong La Pass Trek

Thorong La Pass Trek or the Annapurna Circuit Trek is 14 days long. You don’t have to climb Mount Annapurna to get through this trek. Though much lower than the tall peak above the altitude of 8000m, you will get to experience almost every aspect of the Annapurna trek when you’re in Thorong La Pass Trek.

Needless to say, the routes are snowy during the colder seasons. However, you are likely to see snow on the trails even during a few off-season months. There surely are months that are preferable to the others to go on the Thorong La Pass Trek.

You will be reaching an altitude of 5,416m during the trek. The Tibetan plateau is a major location of exploration during the Thorong La Pass trek. When you acclimatize and get going on your journey steadily, your trek becomes easier day by day. Trekkers’ bodies will habituate quite easily to the changing conditions of the mountains when they have acclimatized properly.

Likewise, during your journey, you will see many mountains besides just Mount Annapurna including Tilicho Peak, Gangapurna, Manaslu, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri. The trek starts in Dharapani and you will go through some of the major routes which are also part of a few other Annapurna trekking destinations.

Trekkers will find themselves immersed in the Hindu villages which are blended with Buddhist and Tibetan habitats along the way. You will find inhabitants throughout your journey living in perfect harmony. And, the Thorong La Pass trek is just as amazing of an opportunity for you to explore both authentic Nepalese and Tibetan culture and traditions.

Highlights of Thorong La Pass Trek

The following are some of the major highlights of Thorong La Pass Trek:

• Road trip from Kathmandu to Besisahar.
• Trek through beautiful locations like Besisahar, Chame, Yak Kharka, Manang, Thorong Phedi, and Jomsom.
• Visit Muktinath temple.
• Excursion of Kali Gandaki valley.
• Short excursion through UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu.
• Cultural exploration throughout the journey.
• Short and affordable yet a very memorable trek.

Things to Remember When You Are Going to the Thorong La Pass Trek

When you are going to the Thorong La Pass, there are several things you will have to keep in mind at all times. These tips are going to come in handy throughout your travel:

Physical and Mental Preparation

Trekkers should physically and mentally prepare themselves for the Thorong La Pass trek as this journey is going to physically and mentally test them. When you are prepared, even as a beginner, you will be able to complete the journey without a problem.

For physical preparation, you can go for a run or jog a few kilometers every day. Going to the gym and training with cardio can be of great help in making it easy for you to complete your Thorong La Pass trek.

Likewise, you can mentally prepare yourself by doing proper research before the trek starts. Seeking primary sources or simply contacting us at White Hill Treks can help you know more about your destination.

With proper physical strength and good information in mind, you can be assured of physical and mental stability throughout the trek.

Consult With A Physician

Health comes first for every trekker. You really cannot risk your health when you are on the trekking journey. Consulting a physician can help you recognize any health conditions you may have. This will further allow you to determine whether you are fit for your Thorong La Pass trek or not.

Moreover, trekkers can find ways to tackle any condition they may have while seeking medications that might help them complete the journey without the possibility of health issues.

Hydration and Water Purification

Usually, trekkers tend to go on the trek without a water bottle. This can prove to be one of your biggest mistakes during the journey because drinking water is more than a requisite when you are trekking.

Water purification is just as important. Cleaning water in a rural place can be tough. What you can do, however, is simply pop a water purification tablet in the water and expect it to be clean right after. This way, you can refill your water bottle at every other location in your path.

Staying hydrated during your journey will keep your body active. Dehydration, similarly, can cause you to fall weak and even make you nauseous.

Acclimatization

Trekkers have to acclimatize to give their bodies enough oxygen. Acclimatization refers to resting in between your journey as you move upwards to a location that requires more bodily oxygen production.

Not acclimatizing properly can lead you to suffocate as your body cannot immediately change its condition as per the altitude. Acclimatization also allows you to rest and enjoy the scenery along your journey to a good extent while slowing down a bit.

In addition to this, when you rest, you will also give your body enough time to get an energy boost for the next day of trek. Trekkers can easily avoid health issues like respiratory problems, altitude sickness, etc.

Carry Cash

You should keep in mind that when you are trekking through rural routes like you will be during the Thorong La Pass trek, you might not always find modes of online payment. Hence, it is best to carry cash safely.

When you carry cash, you can make purchases during urgent situations without a rush.

Pack Adequately

Packing more or less than necessary can prove to be a big problem for the trekkers. When you pack less than what you need, you will find yourself struggling to find gear and supplies that may otherwise have come in handy for you. And, fellow trekkers might not always be willing to share due to limited availability.

This does not mean that you should pack more than necessary either. When you overpack, you have to hire more porters than you need. And, this will cost you more. If you are looking to carry the load by yourself, we want to remind you that this just might be the worst decision to make during the journey!

You cannot trek and carry a big load on your shoulders. For convenience and ensured smoothness in the journey, you can simply prepare a list of all the things that you’re going to need during the journey and move further accordingly.

Get All Necessary Permits

Trekkers should always carry necessary permits. We will surely help you in finding reliable stops to get your permits including the major one, Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). It is best to get your permit before you begin the trek.

Last-minute purchase of permits can lead to much hassle because you will find yourself in a rush and it is more than likely that you will also have to pay more money. Taking permits a little before your trek means you can purchase them at a price much lower than end-minute purchases.

Seek Help From Guides And Porters

It is best to seek help from guides and porters, especially if you are a beginner. Beginner trekkers might find themselves in difficult situations when they are not able to carry their loads with ease when they are ascending or descending through the trails, both snowy and the hills.

Though the trekkers don’t need to hire a porter, it is always better to remain safe and comfortable beforehand. Guides are mandatory for a smooth journey. Certain locations along the trail make it compulsory for you to know about the rules and regulations.

Going on a risky and wrong path can lead you to danger. Sometimes, you may unknowingly break the local rules. Along with this, there are plenty of reasons why seeking a guide during a journey can be so crucial.

Go Slow

Don’t rush! A mistake that many trekkers tend to make is that they rush during their trek. Trekking journeys are not meant to be competitive. You are supposed to enjoy each moment with ease and steadiness. Going slow is the best way you can complete your trek without struggle.

The faster you try to go in your Thorong La Pass Trek, the more possibility there is for you to get wounded, suffer from mild to severe health conditions, and worse of all discontinue your trek due to physical or mental shortcomings.

Stick With Your Group or Guides

If you have not gone through the trails of Thorong La Pass before, it is suggested that you stick with your group or the guides throughout the journey. The rural routes can be confusing. Even the most experienced trekking can find themself in a confusing situation if they lose their group along the way.

When you trek with your group or your guides, you can better find the best routes and reach your destination rather safely.

Be Respectful to The Locals

Trekkers should be respectful towards the locals. The locals along the trails are going to have distinct cultures, languages, and traditions. They also hold rich and distinct histories. When you are on this journey, make sure to be as respectful as you can towards the locals.

The following etiquette by learning them through the internet or by consulting with your guides is highly recommended. Avoid using certain words and sentences around the locals and try to talk in the most modest possible way.

Making fun of people and their culture wherever you go can lead to serious and unwanted consequences. And, when you are visiting religious sites, make sure to stay covered with decent clothing pieces. Wearing too revealing clothes, wearing slippers and shoes inside

religious sites, and eating or drinking inside the temples can cause trouble for you.

Have Fun

When you are on the Thorong La Pass Trek, you need to remember that this journey is not only about reaching a destination but about having fun. Make sure to interact with fellow trekkers and the locals. It is best if you also try to get involved in festivities or immerse in the traditions of the

inhabitants of either of the locations you will visit.

Conclusion

Thorong La Pass Trek is suitable for any trekker who is looking for a little adrenaline adventure in their life. The trek will mostly take place away from the urban areas besides the few initial days you will spend in Kathmandu.

This means you will find yourself immersed in the hills and the mountains during the travel. The nature is one of the biggest highlights of your journey. We bet you will find yourself amid heavenly beauty from the beginning till the end.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Will the agency pay for travel insurance?

No, you have to manage the travel insurance.

How to manage transportation during the trek?

We will be managing all your transportation throughout the trek.

Can I join trekking groups?

Yes, it is possible to join trekking groups.

Is pre-booking for the trekking package necessary?

You can choose to prebook for a simpler and more hassle-free experience.

Will the agency pay for extra food?

No, these will be included in your personal expenses.

Detail Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

You will be picked up directly from the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) on this day and driven to your hotel. Trekkers can choose to stay in their hotel or go on a short trip around their hotel.

Day 2: Kathmandu Excursion

The second day is perfect to go to places in Kathmandu both close and at a fair distance from your hotel. Some such locations include UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Pashupatinath Temple, Swoyambhunath Temple, Patan Durbar Square, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Bouddhanath, etc.

Since you will be staying in Kathmandu on this day, you will return to the same hotel from the day before.  

Day 3: Syangje Drive

You will get started on your drive from Kathmandu to Syangje on the third day. The drive is going to take several hours from the capital city. Trekkers will be well-rested throughout the trip. You will spend the night at Syangje.

Day 4: Syangje to Dharapani Trek

This day is the beginning of your trekking journey which will last a few more days until the end of your trip. On this day, you will be crossing the bridge from Tal and heading towards Dharapani from Syangje. 

You will reach Dharapani by the end of the trek and can spend a night at a teahouse.

Day 5: Dharapani to Chame Trek

The scenery of your journey will start to look better and more aesthetic this day on. You can enjoy the beautiful view of the Lamjung Himal along with the Annapurna peaks. Trekking from Dharapani to Chame is going to be peaceful as the trails are mostly all rural and naturally rich.

Day 6: Chame to Pisang Trek

You will enter the U-shaped valley of Manang on the 6th day. From Chame, trekkers will be headed towards Pisang. Trekkers will also pass the Marsyangdi River on this day which adds up to the aesthetic value of the journey. After a few hours of trekking, you will finally reach Pisang and spend overnight in a teahouse there.

Day 7: Pisang to Manang Trek

Finally, on this day you will head towards Manang. Manang is a popular trekking and tourism location in itself. From the barren yet culturally rich scenery of the lands to the ever-alluring view of the mountains, the Manang trek will be one of the most memorable parts of your journey.

You will spend a night at a teahouse in Manang.

Day 8: Acclimatization in Manang

You can get proper rest in Manang on this day. Acclimatization is necessary to help your body habituate to the changing altitude during the Thorong La Pass trek. On your acclimatization day, you can enjoy the view of the surroundings around your teahouse. It is best to avoid skipping this day and instead slow down for a proper rest to ensure healthier trekking practices.

Day 9: Manang to Yak Kharka Trek

Trekkers will head towards another prominent trekking destination for the day called Yak Kharka. The trek won’t last more than a few hours, possibly 3 to 4 hours on this day as Yak Kharka is not very far from Manang.

The main attractions for trekking on this day are serene villages and mountainous pasture lands. The trekkers should slow their pace down for this day’s trek as they will be going towards a comparatively higher altitude than the days before.

Day 10: Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi Trek

You will go to the lower part of the Thorong La Pass on this day. The lower part of the pass is a village called Thorong Phedi. It is a small village rich in Tibetan and Nepalese culture and lifestyle. Once you’re in your teahouse in the village, you can take proper rest and prepare for the most awaited trekking day which will follow the very next day.

Day 11: Thorong Phedi to Thorong La Pass to Muktinath Trek

This is possibly one of the most memorable days in your trekking journey. On this day, you will pass the Thorong La Phedi and head towards Thorong La Pass. You need to kickstart your day with proper food and hydration.

The Thorong La Pass at 5,416m is the highest elevation you will reach during this trek. After having experienced the breathtaking adventure, you will head downwards to the Muktinath temple.

Muktinath is popular among Hindu devotees who you’ll see during your visit to the temple. There will surely be plenty of other visitors who are also trekkers like yourself.

Day 12: Muktinath to Jomsom Trek

On the 12th day, you will go from Muktinath to Jomsom. The trek is going to be wholesome in the sense that you will go to Jomsom, which is popular not only as a scenic route but also for its marketplace. Jomsom is best known for its apple farms. If the season allows, you can spend some time apple-picking as well.

You will spend a night in Jomsom. The trek from Muktinath to Jomsom is also going to mark the end of your trekking journey.

Day 13: Flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu

You will head towards Pokhara from Jomsom. Trekkers will be flown from Pokhara to Kathmandu. In the evening, you can go on a short excursion to Kathmandu.

Day 14: Final Departure

This is the final day of your trekking journey. On this day, you can finally reminisce all the moments you have spent during your travel and carry home a bag of happy memories. You will also be dropped off at the Tribhuvan International Airport by one of our representatives from your hotel.

Cost Information

Equipment

For Head

1. Sun hat / Scarf
2. Sunglasses and Headlight

For Upper Body

1. Water Proof Jacket
2. Down Jacket / Warm Jacket
3. Light Weight T-shirt (At least 1 pair)

For Lower Body

1. Water Proof Pants
2. Running tights
3. Light Weight Pant

For Hand

1. Gloves

For Feet

1. Thin Inner socks (At least 2 pairs)
2. Woolen socks
3. Trekking boots (preferred comfortable boots)

Other Accessories

1. Sleeping bag
2. Water bottle etc
3. Suncream
4. Water purification tablets
5. Toiletries (Toilet paper etc)
6. Warm hat
7. Trekking Bag Etc.

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