High Pass Treks in Nepal – Above 5000m Trekking Peaks
Nepal has many unique trekking trails that take you close to the majestic mountains. These Himalayan trails are the best adventure destinations in the world. Many of these trails include snow-capped high mountain passes and base camp of high Himalayas along the way. Most of them adventure high passes trails are incredible loop treks.
These High passes treks in Nepal are more adventurous than the other regular base camp routes. These treks in Nepal also give an advantage to the adventurer to explore the different cultures, and lifestyles of rural villages. Trekkers can also enjoy watching the Himalayas from different perspectives.
Moreover. High passes trek Nepal will give you a new insight of the natural landscapes for experienced trekkers who have previously trekked in Nepal. These adventures will challenge even the most skilled trekkers with its challenging ascends and the exceptional mountain views.
The magnificent views of snow-capped mountain added with the hardcore trekking experience, makes high pass trekking a great trekking option for avid trekkers. However, beginners should take an easy trek beforehand if you have no prior trekking experience.
Read on to know more about high passes trek Nepal and other relevant information in detail. Contact us for more detail and book your trip now!
How are High Passes Trek Nepal Different from Regular Treks?
High passes treks in Nepal are extremely challenging and adventurous. These high mountain passes were commonly used as trade routes by locals for centuries. Trekkers need to climb over at least 5,000 meters along a glacial path and rugged terrains. Hence, these treks through high mountain passes in Nepal have high difficulty ratings.
Mardi Himal Trek, Everest View Trek, the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, and others do not require climbing higher altitudes and are relatively easy. Even Base Camp treks like Everest Base Camp trek and Annapurna Base Camp treks are straightforward and ideal for all skill levels.
On the other hand, mountaineering and peak climbing requires a lot of climbing and is extremely difficult. These treks require you to walk through smooth lower trails as well as high mountain passes. Hence, these high passes trek Nepal are different from other regular treks in these regards.
How to Prepare for High Passes Trek Nepal?
You should start training in the gym or start running at least a few months before the trek. Physical and aerobic exercises will build strength, endurance, stamina, and confidence. The high passes trek Nepal also comes with increased risks of acute mountain sickness.
Hence, acclimatization and hydration is essential along with proper rest. You should do some research and get tips from trekking veterans as well. However, the pass sections are only a day long and get completed in 5-8 hours. Crossing Thorong-La pass takes around 8-9 hours whereas the Three Passes trek, requires 3 days to complete.
Make sure you test your gears before trekking. You must test for size and adjustment while getting a new pair of trekking boots. Also, make sure you break in your shoes and get bigger size hiking boots for trekking.
Professional guides with years of experience are essential for High passes trek Nepal. We start the main section of the pass crossing before sunrise and finish before the afternoon as harsh winds can derail the trip. This ensures that we make it according to our schedule.
Training Required for High Passes Trek Nepal
Trekkers must undergo training at least two months before the date of departure. You should go running or hiking a minimum of 5-8 miles a day. This will increase blood circulation and help you breathe. It will build your thigh and torso muscles as well.
Swimming requires holding your breath for a long period that helps to ease short breathing while trekking. Yoga or Aerobic exercises help to stretch your body, while jogging helps to tone up your body and muscles. You should focus on leg squat, leg press, deadlift, leg curl, leg extension, wall sits, and others.
Besides that, mental preparation and positive attitude is also essential for trek. You should take short one day hikes around you to prepare for the trek. You can also do your research and ask veteran trekkers about high altitude treks.
When is The Best Time for High Passes Treks Nepal?
Spring and autumn are the best seasons for high passes treks in Nepal. March to May (Spring) and October to November (Autumn) are ideal as they provide stable weather conditions and favourable temperatures.
Autumn months have minimal precipitation and dry trails. You will get moderate temperatures that are perfect for trekking. It is also culturally significant as any festivals fall under this season. It is essential to check weather updates before the start of the trek.
Spring is a scenic time with many wildflowers blooming all over trails. Trekkers will have a great time trekking natural landscapes in a favourable climate. Clear and unobstructed views of snow capped mountains is another highlight of trek in Spring.
There is heavy snowfall in winters at high mountain passes. Slippery leech infested trails make it difficult to trek in monsoons. Hence, Spring and Autumn are ideal for high passes trek Nepal.
Are High Passes Treks in Nepal Risky?
Trekking High mountain passes is not a walk in the park. A rough terrain and dangerous glacial path will challenge even the experienced trekkers. Like any other high altitude adventure, it comes with risks of its own. Trekkers are highly advised to hire professional guides for the trek.
To minimize risks, we acclimatize regularly at various points to adapt our lungs to less oxygen. Proper travel insurance will cover all injuries, accidents, thefts, delays, and emergency evacuations. Trekkers should train well for the trek. Hence, through these measures, you can reduce the risk of High passes trek Nepal.
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Various High Passes Treks in Nepal
Annapurna Circuit Trek – Thorong La Pass
Trip Facts
Trip Grade: Moderate
Max. Altitude: 5,416 m (Thorong-La Pass)
Transportation: Local Bus/Private Car
Best Season: March-May and September-November
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Trekking Duration: 12 to 25 days
Total Distance: 170 km to 230 km (Approximately)
Annapurna Circuit trek is one of the most famous high passes trek Nepal. Earlier, the Annapurna Circuit trek required 21 days to finish. But with new roads built along the trek route, the trekking can get completed in just 10 to 13 days. Normally this route starts from Besisahar which is around 180 Km driving distance from Kathmandu.
Since the rough road has been duly built until Manang, trekkers have an option to either take local transport or walk further. The most famous Thorong-la pass is 5416 meters above sea level. We do not need special crampons and ice axes to pass this trail.
Normal time required to pass the Thorong-la is about 8 hours from high camp to Muktinath. Again trekkers have an option to take a local transport back to Pokhara or can also take an adventure walk to Pokhara via Tato pani. Tato pani (Natural hot spring) is also one of the highlights of Annapurna circuit trek.
Trek to Poon Hill is another exciting side trip for the adventure lovers while doing the Annapurna Circuit trek. Starting from one side and finishing on the other is a great part of one of Nepal’s best loop treks. The Annapurna Circuit trek ends in the beautiful lake city of Pokhara.
Everest Base Camp Trek – Cho La Pass
Trip facts:
Trip Grade: Moderate
Max. Altitude: 5555m (Kalapathar)/Cho-la pass (5420m)
Transportation: Private Car/domestic flight
Best Season: March-May and September-November
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge
Trekking Duration: 14-16 days
Total Distance: 135 -150 Kilometers (Approximately)
The normal route of the Everest Base Camp trek is well known among adventure lovers. But there is another exciting trekking route of Everest Base Camp that includes Cho-la pass. Cho-la pass trek can be either done clockwise or anticlockwise.
The clockwise route will take you to Cho-la pass first and Anticlockwise trek route will take you to the Everest base camp first and then lead you to this Cho-la pass. Cho-la pass is 5420 m above sea level and needs approximately 8 hours from Dzongla or Thangna. Ice axes and crampons are not required for this pass.
The Cho-la pass trek also starts with a 30 Minutes flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. Normally Cho-la pass trek takes 14 to 16 days from Kathmandu. Namche Bazar and its vibrant atmosphere is one of the highlights of this trekking route. The views of Mt. Everest, the world’s highest mountain from Kalapatthar is a memory of a lifetime.
Trekkers can also learn about unique Sherpa culture, tradition and lifestyle. The view of the Himalayan lakes of Gokyo and Ngozumpa glacier is extraordinary. Overall, the Everest Base Camp trek via Cho la pass is one of best high passes trek Nepal.
Manaslu Circuit Trek – Larkya La Pass
Trip facts:
Trip Grade: Challenging
Max. Altitude: 5,106 m (Larkya La pass)
Transportation: Local Bus/Private Car
Best Season: March-May and September-November
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge and camping
Trekking Duration: 12 to 25 days
Total Distance: 177 Kilometers (Approximately)
The Manaslu circuit trek is a popular alternative to Annapurna Circuit trek. Manaslu Circuit trek starts from Arughat which is 7 to 8 hours drive from Kathmandu. You can also drive to Soti Khola or Arukhet.
The Manaslu Trek route is remote and takes around 14 to 16 days to complete. The Loop trek starts from the Manaslu conservation area and ends at Annapurna Conservation Area. After the Manaslu Circuit trek, trekkers can continue their trek to Annapurna Circuit from Dharapani.
The Larkya-la is the main highlight of Manaslu Circuit trek. Larkya-la pass is 5100 meters high from the sea level and takes around 8 hours to cross. No special climbing skill or Ice ax crampons are essential.
During the Manaslu circuit trek, trekkers have the option to trek into a newly opened trekking route of Nar Phu and Tsum valley. Government registered trekking companies of Nepal, a minimum of two trekkers in a group size, and special trekking permits are essential.
Ganja La Pass Trek – Ganja La Pass
Trip facts:
Trip Grade: Moderate to Strenuous
Max. Altitude: 5122 m (Ganja La Pass)
Transportation: Local Bus/Private Car
Best Season: March to May and September to December
Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge and camping
Trekking Duration: 11-14 days
Total Distance: 81.33 km (Approximately)
Ganja-la pass trek in the Langtang region is another exciting trek that includes a high mountain pass. The Ganja-la pass trekking route is full of monasteries and monuments related to Buddhist culture and tradition. The route of Ganja-la starts from Syabrubesi which is roughly 6 to 7 hours of drive away from Kathmandu.
Ganja-la pass is 5130 meters above sea level. Trekkers also have a chance to visit Langtang Gompa during the Ganja-la pass trek. The ascent of Chorkari Ri (5050m) and Spectacular views of the Ice fluted Gyanghempo will enchant you.
The Ganja-la pass is a remote and relatively technical pass. It is also recommended to the trekkers to hire a professional guide. In addition to carrying crampons, ice axe, as well as rope, depends on the weather and season of the trek.
The main Highlight of the Ganja-la pass trek is visiting Tibetan villages at Langtang, incredible views of mountains, as well as Crossing the Ganjala pass (5130 meters). Moreover, the trekkers can observe majestic views of Ganesh Himal, Langtang Ri, Lang Sisa, and 10 peaks over 6000m.
Upper Dolpo Trek – (Shey La, Kang La, Numa La, & Baga La Pass)
Trip facts:
Trip Grade: Strenuous
Max. Altitude: 5360m (Numa-la)
Transportation: Local Bus/Private Car/domestic flight
Best Season: March to May and September to December
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge and camping
Trekking Duration: 8-26 days
Upper Dolpo trek is one of the unique and challenging treks in the world. The upper Dolpo lies in the far northwest part of Nepal. Dolpo is extremely beautiful and is a less developed part of Nepal close to the Tibetan border. However, the unique culture of Dolpo is mysterious and enchanting.
The Dolpo trek starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj for 50 minutes and another flight to Juphal for 30 minutes. The trek to Upper Dolpo is fully camping and you need to arrange all food and tents. Special trekking permits are essential to trek in the Dolpo region. You also need to join a government registered trekking company in Nepal with two trekkers minimum in a group size.
The Dolpo trek route passes over attractive valleys, local settlements, enormous mountains and forests of pines, Rhododendrons, Oaks, etc. Likewise, the ancient monuments, remarkable landscapes, hypnotic Shey Phoksundo lake, remote villages of Ringmo, and the centuries-old monasteries are the main highlights of the Dolpo trek. Over there, Shey Phoksundo is the deepest blue lake of Nepal with its 145 m depth.
Shey-la which is also called Glen La is about 5000 m pass in Upper Dolpo trek. Another pass Kagmara-la (5115 m), Numa-la (5360 m), Baga-la pass (5090 m) all are in the upper Dolpo region. By the way, trekkers do not require any technical skills or use of ice axes and crampons.
Shey Gompa region wildlife, pristine lakes, mounting peaks, and rural lifestyle are other attractions of the trek. Each year hundreds of pilgrims and travelers visit the upper Dolpo region and make a circuit of holy “Crystal Mountain”. The people of this region mostly speak Tibetan languages and rarely understand the Nepali language.
Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek – Dhampus and French Pass
Trip facts:
Trip Grade: Moderate to Strenuous
Max. Altitude: 5360m (French Pass)
Transportation: Local Bus/Private Car
Best Season: March to May and September to December
Accommodation: Teahouse/Lodge and camping
Trekking Duration: 14-16 days
Total Distance: 101.06 km (Approximately)
Dhaulagiri circuit trek is one of the most remote loop high pass trek in Nepal. In brief, this trek is challenging and needs a few normal climbing skills with crampons and ice axes. The Dhaulagiri Circuit trek route starts from Beni which is around three hours driving from Pokhara.
The trek route of the Dhaulagiri Circuit is rocky and is one of the lesser-visited areas inside the Annapurna Himalayas. The first few days follow the Myagdi Khola River to the Chhonbardan Glacier, at the foot of Dhaulagiri. The landscape changes from tended farmland to barren, often snow-covered rocky mountains. For instance, trekkers will get views of Dhaulagiri and other Himalayan giants all along.
Mt. Dhaulagiri, rises at 8167 meters which is the sixth highest mountain in the world. The trek that initiates from a small and popular town that lies at the confluence of Myagdi River. Together with the lush landscape, hidden valleys, High Mountain passes along with many snow-capped peaks like Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Annapurna and other 23 neighboring peaks makes Dhaulagiri natural heaven.
There is Dhampus pass (5,240 m) and the French pass (5,360 m) In the Dhaulagiri Circuit trek. Both these passes are a bit technical and provide splendid views. During the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, you can explore rich flora and fauna, lush jungles, green hills, and unchanged agricultural lands. In summary, Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is one of the best remote and challenging treks in Nepal.
Kanchenjunga Trek – Mirgin La, Tamo La, and Simion-la Pass
Trip facts:
Trip Grade: Strenuous
Max. Altitude: 5143 m (Kanchenjunga Base Camp)
Transportation: Local Bus/Private Car
Best Season: March to May and September to December
Accommodation: Teahouse / Lodge and camping
Trekking Duration: 18-27 days
Total Distance: 200 km (Approximately)
Mt. Kanchenjunga trek route lies in the North-Eastern part of Nepal Himalayas. Kanchenjunga trek route is one of the remote but unique trek routes in Nepal. Besides, the Kanchenjunga Trek allows you to explore and reach the base camp of the world’s third tallest mountain.
Mt. Kanchenjunga is commonly considered to be one of the most beautiful mountains in the world. The Kanchenjunga trek begins after we fly to Bhadrapur from Kathmandu that takes about 50 minutes. Moreover, this journey along a less crowded trail also rewards us with a unique vision into the pastoral Nepalese lifestyle of the country’s eastern region.
The ridge of Kanchenjunga covering 4 peaks of 8000m and 7902m elevation rules the scenery without taking any splendor from stunning adjoining 7000m peaks. In conclusion, the Kanchenjunga trek route has 3 passes, Mirgin-La, Tamo-la, and Simion-La at above 4,500 m which makes it challenging as well as adventurous.
Essential Tips For High Passes Trek Nepal
- Pack lightly with only those stuff that are necessary
- Check the weather forecast before starting on trek
- Set acclimatization points in advance
- Acclimatize and hydrate regularly during high passes trek Nepal
- Carry Diamox tablets for altitude sickness
- Book all accommodation and meal facilities in advance
- Carry water purification tablets or chlorine solutions
- Start your trek early in the morning arrive at your destination
- Carry snacks like granola bars, protein bars, snickers, and others
- Carry toiletries in your packing list
- Hiking clothes and socks should be thick and able to regulate temperature
Packing List for High Passes Trek Nepal
Clothing
- Woolen gloves
- Trekking boots
- Pair of Sandals
- Thermal Underwear
- Warm hat
- Waterproof trekking pants
- Windcheaters
- Socks
- Down jacket
- Full Sleeve shirts
- Umbrella/ Raincoat
Toiletries
- Soap
- Toilet Paper
- Sanitary pads/ Tampons
- Shampoo
- Tooth paste
- Lip Balm
- Face towel
- Tooth brush
- Moisturizer
First Aid
- Water purification tablets
- Diamox tablets
- Imodium
- Anti-nauseant
- Mosquito repellent
- Paracetamol
- Antibacterial sanitizer
Accessories
- Sleeping Bag
- Sunglasses
- Power banks
- Extra batteries
- Solar chargers
- Playing Cards
- Books or Kindle
- Notebook
Important documents
- Passport
- Travel permits
- Travel insurance
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- Less crowded treks in Nepal
The Final Say
Nepal has many high mountain passes that are ideal for trekking adventures. These unique Himalayan trekking trails attract thousands of avid trekkers from all over the world. The High passes trek Nepal are more adventurous and challenging than regular treks in the region. These treks will challenge even the most experienced trekkers to their core.
Trekkers can explore the different cultures, villages, and lifestyles of the region while observing the Himalayas from different perspectives. These treks are ideal for the experienced trekkers who have trekked in Nepal before. We hope you learned about high passes trek Nepal and other relevant information. You can choose any one of the treks listed above and contact us for more details.