10 Popular Mountains Passes in Nepal

Nepal is a mecca for adventurers seeking the ultimate mountain trekking experience. With its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and awe-inspiring vistas, Nepal offers a plethora of mountain passes that serve as gateways to unforgettable adventures.

From the classical everest three passse to formidable Thorong La Pass in the Annapurna region to the remote Kang La Pass, each pass reveals its unique charm, challenging trekkers to conquer their heights while rewarding them with breathtaking panoramas.

Nepal, ranging from the lofty heights of the mightiest passes to the tranquil trails of the lowest crossings. Prepare to be captivated by the majesty of these passes, as we uncover their remarkable features, the treks they adorn, and the wonders that await at every step. So, fasten your virtual boots and embark on a journey to the heart of Nepal's Himalayan glory.

Join us as we delve into the details of these majestic mountain passes, uncovering the trails they grace and the wonders that await at every turn. In this blog, we will embark on a virtual journey to explore the 10 most popular mountain passes in Nepal.

Thorong La Pass - Annapurna Region

Thorong La Pass, located in the Annapurna region of Nepal, stands as the highest point of the renowned Annapurna Circuit Trek. At an impressive elevation of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet), it offers trekkers an exhilarating and challenging adventure.

The pass is a crucial segment of the iconic Annapurna Circuit Trek, which typically takes around 14 to 21 days to complete. The trek covers approximately 160 to 230 kilometers (100 to 145 miles), depending on the specific route and side trips chosen by trekkers.

Along the way, trekkers can experience the rich cultural tapestry of the region, encountering traditional villages inhabited by diverse ethnic groups like Gurungs, Thakalis, and Manangis.

Trekkers are also treated to stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks, including Annapurna I (8,091 meters/26,545 feet) and Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters/26,795 feet), as well as the surrounding Himalayan ranges.

Reaching the top of Thorong La Pass is a truly awe-inspiring moment. Standing amidst the towering Himalayan peaks, trekkers are rewarded with panoramic vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. The snow-capped giants of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges dominate the horizon, painting a breathtaking canvas of natural beauty.

Kongama La Pass - Everest Region

Kongma La Pass is a prominent mountain pass located in the Everest region of Nepal. Standing at an elevation of 5,535 meters (18,159 feet), which makes it the highest passes among Everest Three Passes.

The pass offers a spectacular vantage point to witness the grandeur of the Himalayas, including the mighty Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and other towering peaks in the Everest range. From Kongma La Pass, trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views that stretch across the snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and glacial landscapes.

On one side, Kongma La Pass connects to Chukhung, a small village located in the Imja Valley. Chukhung is a popular resting spot for trekkers heading towards the Everest region.

On the other side, Kongma La Pass connects to Lobuche, a village situated at an elevation of approximately 4,940 meters (16,207 feet). Lobuche serves as a significant stopover for trekkers on their way to Everest Base Camp Trek.

Cho La Pass - Everest Region

Cho La Pass, located in the Everest region of Nepal, is a high mountain pass situated at an elevation of 5,420 meters (17,782 feet) above sea level. It serves as a crucial part of the popular Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes.

The highlights of the pass include the mesmerizing Gokyo Lakes, with their turquoise glacial waters, and the Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas. As trekkers ascend towards Cho La Pass, they are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of prominent peaks such as Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu.

On one side, Cho La Pass connects to the Gokyo Valley. Gokyo Valley is renowned for its series of glacial lakes, known as the Gokyo Lakes. On the other side, Cho La Pass connects to the main Everest Base Camp trail. The Everest Base Camp trek is a classic and popular route that leads to the base camp of Mt. Everest.

Renjo La Pass - Everest Region

Renjo La Pass is a stunning mountain pass located in the Everest region of Nepal. Standing at an elevation of 5,388 meters (17,677 feet), it offers mesmerizing panoramic views of Everest, Cho You, Lhotse, and other neighboring peaks, as well as the breathtaking Gokyo Lakes.

Renjo La Pass is a less crowded alternative to the popular Cho La Pass and forms an integral part of the adventurous Everest Three Passes Trek.

On the Gokyo side, Renjo La Pass connects to the Gokyo Valley, which is home to a series of six glacial lakes, including the sacred Gokyo Lake.

On the Thame side, Renjo La Pass connects to the Thame Valley, a picturesque valley with a rich Sherpa cultural heritage. The Thame Valley is dotted with traditional Sherpa villages, monasteries, and prayer flags, offering insights into the local way of life.

Larke La Pass - Manaslu Region

Larke La Pass, also known as Larkya La Pass, is a prominent mountain pass situated in the Manaslu region of Nepal. Standing at an elevation of 5,160 meters (16,929 feet), it is the highest point on the popular Manaslu Circuit Trek. The pass offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including Manaslu (8,156 meters/26,759 feet) and the Annapurna range.

The Larke La Pass offers breathtaking views of the snow-clad peaks, including Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Kang Guru. The surrounding landscapes are a mix of rugged terrains, lush valleys, and pristine glaciers.

Larke La Pass connects the Manaslu region in Nepal with the Annapurna region. It lies on the border between the Manaslu Conservation Area and the Annapurna Conservation Area, serving as a gateway between these two regions.

Ganja La Pass - Langtang Region

Ganja La Pass is a prominent mountain pass located in the Langtang region of Nepal. Situated at an elevation of 5,106 meters (16,751 feet), it is a challenging route that forms a part of the Langtang Valley Trek.

The pass offers breathtaking views of Langtang Lirung (7,234 meters) and other snow-capped peaks, making it a popular destination for trekkers seeking spectacular mountain vistas.

Reaching the top of Ganja La Pass is a rewarding experience. From the summit, you'll be greeted with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Langtang Lirung, Langshisha Ri, and Yala Peak. The vast expanse of the Langtang Valley unfolds beneath you, offering a sense of awe and accomplishment.

Ganja La Pass acts as a connecting point between the Langtang Valley in the north and the Helambu region in the south, allowing trekkers to explore the natural and cultural diversity of both areas.

Sele La Pass - Kanchenjunga Region

Sele La Pass, also spelled Selele Pass, is one of the mountains passes in the Kanchenjunga region of Nepal. Situated at an elevation of approximately 4,290 meters (14,070 feet), it offers magnificent views of the surrounding peaks, including Kanchenjunga (8,586m), Makalu (8,481m), Yalung Kang (8,505m), Mera Peak (6,364m), Tanga (6,433m), and others.

Sele La Pass connects the Ghunsa Valley and the Yangma Valley in the Kanchenjunga region of Nepal.

Trekking in the Kanchenjunga region typically includes the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, which covers Sele La Pass as part of its route. Additionally, the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek may also incorporate Sele La Pass depending on the chosen itinerary.

Lauribinayak La Pass - Langtang Region

Lauribinayak La Pass is located in the Langtang region of Nepal, which is known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality. Standing at an elevation of approximately 4,610 meters (15,125 feet).

The pass is considered a sacred site by both Hindus and Buddhists, and it offers breathtaking vistas of the Langtang Himalayan range, including Langtang Lirung (7,227 meters/23,711 feet), Ganesh Himal (7,422 meters/24,350 feet), and other snow-capped peaks.

Lauribinayak La Pass is a prominent feature of the popular Langtang Gosainkunda Trek. This trek combines the natural beauty of the Langtang Valley with the religious significance of the sacred Gosainkunda Lake.

Lauribinayak La Pass connects the Langtang Valley with the sacred Gosainkunda Lake in the Langtang region of Nepal. It serves as a gateway between these two stunning locations, allowing trekkers to traverse from the Langtang Valley to reach the revered Gosainkunda Lake or vice versa.

The pass acts as a natural bridge, linking these two beautiful destinations and providing trekkers with an opportunity to experience the contrasting landscapes and cultural aspects of the Langtang region.

Kang La Pass - Annapurna Region

Kang La Pass is a captivating mountain pass located in the remote Nar Phu Valley of Nepal. It is a highlight of the Nar Phu Valley Trek, which takes trekkers off the beaten path and offers a unique cultural and wilderness experience.

Kang La Pass stands at an elevation of 5,322 meters (17,460 feet) and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and dramatic landscapes. The pass serves as a link between the Nar and Phu valleys, two hidden gems in the Annapurna region.

Among the prominent mountains visible from Kang La Pass are Himlung Himal, with its towering presence at 7,126 meters (23,379 feet), and Kang Guru, standing tall at 6,981 meters (22,903 feet). The pyramid shaped Pisang Peak, reaching 6,091 meters (19,980 feet), adds to the picturesque scenery.

Jeng La pass - Dolpo Region

Jeng La Pass is a mountain pass situated in the remote Dolpo region of Nepal. It lies at an elevation of approximately 5,110 meters (16,765 feet) above sea level. The trek to Jeng La Pass is a part of the Upper Dolpo Trek, which takes trekkers through some of the most remote and untouched areas of the Himalayas.

As you approach Jeng La Pass, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including the snow-capped mountains of the Kanjiroba Himal and the Dhaulagiri range.

Trekking in the Dolpo region, including Jeng La Pass, is a truly off-the-beaten-path experience. It offers a blend of natural grandeur, cultural immersion, and a chance to witness the raw beauty of the Himalayas.

Jeng La Pass serves as a vital link between the Tarap Valley and the Phoksundo Valley, allowing trekkers to experience the remote and captivating landscapes of the Dolpo region. If you are seeking a unique and challenging adventure, the Upper Dolpo Circuit Trek with Jeng La Pass should be on your list.

In Conclusion, Nepal's 10 popular mountain passes offer thrilling adventures and breathtaking vistas in the lap of the majestic Himalayas. From the iconic Thorong La Pass in the Annapurna region to the remote Jeng La Pass in Dolpo, each pass provides a unique and unforgettable trekking experience.

Whether you choose the Everest region with passes like Cho La, Renjo La, and Kongma La, or venture into the Annapurna region with Thorong La, you'll witness the raw beauty of the Himalayas and immerse yourself in the local cultures along the way.

The passes in the Langtang region, such as Ganja La and Lauribinayak La Pass, offer a blend of natural wonders and spiritual experiences. And in the remote Dolpo region, passes like Jeng La introduce you to the untouched landscapes and ancient Tibetan culture.

These mountain passes require careful planning, physical fitness, and the ability to adapt to the high altitude and challenging terrains. It's important to be prepared, follow safety guidelines, and respect the fragile ecosystem and local communities. Engaging the services of experienced guides and trekking agencies is highly recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.