Thorong La Pass Guide 2026: Crossing the Annapurna Circuit's 5,416m High Point

Pass altitude5,416m

Crossing day7–9 hrs

Start4–5am

Descent~1,600m

Key takeaways

Thorong La (5,416m) is the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit and crossed in a single long day with a pre-dawn start to beat the wind.
It is non-technical but serious — the two real dangers are altitude and weather (snow can close the pass).
Acclimatise properly first: the Manang rest day and the high route via Ghyaru/Ngawal are essential preparation.
The long 1,600m descent to Muktinath punishes knees — trekking poles are invaluable.

The crux of the Circuit

Thorong La, at 5,416m, is the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit and one of the highest trekking passes in the world crossed on a classic route. Reaching the prayer-flag-draped saddle is the climax of the trek — but it demands respect.

The crossing day

You cross from Thorong Phedi (4,450m) or High Camp (4,900m) in a single long day. The standard approach is a pre-dawn start (4–5am) — to reach the pass before the notorious afternoon winds, and to allow time for the long descent to Muktinath (3,800m). Expect 7–9 hours on the big day.

Weather can close the pass

Snow can make Thorong La dangerous or impassable, with whiteout and avalanche risk. Crossings have turned deadly in unexpected storms. A good guide makes the weather call and won't push a risky crossing — keep a buffer day so you can wait if needed.

What it's like

From High Camp, a steep, cold, dark climb by headlamp gains the altitude slowly. The air is thin — small steps, frequent breaths. At the top: prayer flags, a teahouse, a sign, and staggering views. Then a long, knee-testing 1,600m descent to Muktinath.

Acclimatise on the way up

Never rush to the pass. Take the Manang acclimatisation day and the high route via Ghyaru and Ngawal — and consider Tilicho Lake or Ice Lake as "climb high, sleep low" prep. Good acclimatisation is what gets you safely over.

The reward

Standing on Thorong La at sunrise, prayer flags snapping, the Himalaya stretching in every direction, is one of trekking's great moments. Cross it well-acclimatised, well-timed, and with a good guide. See the full Annapurna Circuit guide and read how to skip the jeep road.

How high is the Thorong La pass?

Thorong La is 5,416m — the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit and one of the highest passes crossed on a classic trekking route in Nepal.

Why do you cross Thorong La before dawn?

The pre-dawn (4–5am) start lets you reach the pass before the strong afternoon winds and leaves enough daylight for the long 1,600m descent to Muktinath on the far side.