Thorong La Pass,
the highest pass in the world in the north of Annapurna, between Manang to the east and Muktinath to the west, is the most challenging yet highlight of the entire trek. It is often regarded as Nepal’s most hair-raising pass for being at the highest point.
Thorang La Pass is the highlight of Annapurna Circuit Trekking and undoubtedly irresistible part of the trek. The pass is the highest point at 5,416m (17,769 ft) which is surprisingly higher than Everest Base Camp (5,380 m). You will boggle at the spectacular views of Gangapurna, Annapurna III and Chulu West on the way to Annapurna Circuit.
The breath-taking views of the mountains and landscapes as you get closer are awe-inspiring. That being said, Kali Gandaki and Khatung Kang pass will not fail to amaze you at all. However, crossing Thorong La pass is often remarked with sayings like, “That’s audacious! the quantity of oxygen ceases to half at that point.” But like everybody knows- Challenging but rewarding. That’s it, my friend! It’s rewarding.
The trek to Annapurna Circuit starts from Besi Sahar (Headquarter of Lamjung), most trekkers start from Manang to Muktinath (east to west). You can spend your first night in Yak Kharka and the second night in Thorong Phedi. If you want to skip trekking, you can opt for jeep all the way up to Manang thereby escaping the traffic of trekkers.
Yak Kharka will reward you spectacular views of Chulu West, and Thorong Phedi is a pit stop before Thorong La Pass. It keeps you reminding about the landslide, leading on the flat land through the constricted valley. As you ascend higher and higher, you will find yourself catching your breath and maybe a headache due to the lower concentration of oxygen. This will alert you for acclimatization. We recommend you to acclimatize for some days in Manang.
Blizzards, high winds, change in weather and avalanches can hit the route any moments and therefore being prepared is highly recommended. Nevertheless, stunning and picturesque mountains like Manaslu 8163m, Dhaulagiri 8167m, Annapurna I 8091m, Nilgiri 7041m, Fishtail/Machhapuchhare 6998m, Annapurna II 7939m , Annapurna III 7555m, Annapurna IV 7525m, Annapurna South 7219m, Gangapurna 6485m, Hiunchuli 6441m, Lamjung Himal 6986m, Pisang Peak 6091m, Chulu West Peak 6419m, Tilicho Peak 7134m, Tukuche Peak 6920m are constant companion to your eyesight. Tilicho lake, the highest lake in the world and Kali Gandaki Gorge will add joyous moments in your trek.
Then comes Thorong High View Camp. It is located between moraine slopes and Yakwakang. The steep and rugged trail between Thorang Phedi and Thorong High View Camp is dusty and gusty wind-aided. The constant backdrop of Annapurna III and Gangapurna will overwhelm you. And thus the crux of this trek is breath-taking views of towering mountains at the highest mountain pass.
