Nepal’s mountain passes are a gateway to adventure, offering hikers and climbers access to some of the most beautiful and challenging peaks in the world.
Nepal is home to some of the highest and most challenging mountain passes in the world. These passes, also known as “la” in the local language, serve as important trade routes and connect remote villages and towns in the Himalayas to the rest of the country. Many of the mountain passes in Nepal are only accessible on foot and require a high level of physical fitness and stamina to navigate. However, the views from the top of these passes are truly breathtaking, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Trekking through the mountain passes of Nepal is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed by anyone visiting this beautiful country. Here is the list of 27 Mountain passes in Nepal:
Amphu Lapcha Pass in Everest Region
Amphu Lapcha Pass is a high mountain pass located in the Solu-Khumbu region of Nepal. It stands at an elevation of 5,780 meters (18,958 feet) and is a popular route for trekkers and mountaineers. The pass is located on the border between the Solu and Khumbu regions and is often used as a route to the island peak.
The pass is known for its challenging climb and is only recommended for experienced trekkers and mountaineers. It is important to be properly acclimatized and to have the necessary skills and equipment when attempting to cross the Amphu Lapcha Pass. The route to the pass involves crossing glaciers and negotiating steep, rocky terrain. It can be especially treacherous during the winter months when the weather is harsh and the risk of avalanches is high.
Despite the challenges, the Amphu Lapcha Pass is a rewarding trek for those who are prepared for it. The views from the pass are stunning, with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The pass is also home to a variety of wildlife, including Himalayan tahr, musk deer, and snow leopards. Trekkers who are successful in crossing the Pass often feel a sense of accomplishment and pride, as well as a deep connection to the natural beauty and culture of Nepal.
Cho La Pass in Everest Region
Chola Pass is a mountain pass located in the Himalayas of Nepal. It is situated at an elevation of 5,335 meters (17,500 feet) and connects the Solu-Khumbu region with the Rolwaling Valley. The pass is located on the border between Nepal and China, and it is a popular destination for trekkers and climbers.
The Chola Pass trek is a challenging and physically demanding trek that requires a high level of physical fitness. The trek usually begins in the village of Jiri and follows a route through the Solu-Khumbu region, passing through several small villages and high-altitude passes along the way. The trek culminates in a challenging climb to the Chola Pass, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The Chola Pass trek is best undertaken during the months of September to November and March to May when the weather is generally clear and stable.
Kongma La Pass in Everest Region
Kongma La Pass is a high mountain pass located in the Solu-Khumbu region of Nepal. It is located at an altitude of approximately 5,535 meters (18,159 feet) above sea level and is situated on the route between Lobuche and Dingboche, two villages in the Khumbu region of Nepal. The pass is a popular destination for trekkers and climbers who are attempting to reach the summit of Mount Everest, as it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.
The pass can be reached by following the EBC (Everest Base Camp) trek, which is a popular trekking route in the region. The trek to Kongma La Pass involves a challenging climb through rugged terrain and can be physically demanding, but the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers make it well worth the effort. The pass is also home to a variety of wildlife, including yaks, Himalayan tahrs, and pikas, which can be spotted along the way.
Kongma La Pass is a beautiful and unique destination that offers an unforgettable experience for trekkers and nature enthusiasts. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a beginner, the Kongma La Pass is a must-visit destination in Nepal. The journey to the pass is an adventure that will take you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world and offer an opportunity to experience the rich culture and traditions of the local Sherpa people.
Renjo La Pass in Everest Region
Renjo La Pass is a mountain pass located in the Solu-Khumbu region of Nepal, near the border with Tibet. It is located at an elevation of 5,360 meters (17,590 feet) above sea level and is a popular destination for trekkers and mountaineers. The pass offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Cho Oyu.
To reach Renjo La Pass, trekkers typically start from the village of Lukla and follow the popular route to Gokyo Lakes, which passes through Namche Bazaar, Dole, and Machhermo. From Gokyo, the route to Renjo La Pass branches off and involves a steep ascent through rocky terrain and snowy fields. The pass can be reached in about 3-4 days of hiking from Gokyo, depending on the pace of the trekker.
Renjo La Pass is known for its challenging and exhilarating trek, which is considered one of the most beautiful in the Solu-Khumbu region. The trek offers an opportunity to explore the diverse landscape of the region, including forests, valleys, and high-altitude passes. It is also a chance to learn about the culture and way of life of the local Sherpa people, who are native to the region.
Salpa Pass in Everest Region
The Salpa Pass is a high mountain pass located in the Solu-Khumbu region of Nepal, in the Everest region. It is located at an altitude of approximately 3,658 meters (12,002 feet) above sea level and is situated on the route between Salpa Bhanjyang and Junbesi, two villages in the region. The pass is a popular destination for trekkers and climbers who are attempting to reach the summit of Mount Everest, as it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. The pass can be reached by following the Salpa Pass Trek, which is a popular trekking route in the region.
The Salpa Pass Trek is a challenging route that takes trekkers through beautiful and varied landscapes, including forests, villages, and high alpine areas. Along the way, trekkers will have the opportunity to experience the rich culture and traditions of the local Sherpa people and see a variety of wildlife, including yaks, Himalayan tahrs, and pikas. The pass itself offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers, including Mount Everest, and is a rewarding destination for those who are able to reach it.
Overall, the Salpa Pass is a beautiful and unique destination that offers an unforgettable experience for trekkers and nature enthusiasts. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a beginner, the Salpa Pass is a must-visit destination in the Everest region of Nepal.
Kang La Pass in Annapurna Region
There is a mountain pass called Kang La Pass located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is a high-elevation pass situated at an altitude of approximately 5,160 meters (16,929 feet) above sea level, and it is located on the border between the Manang and Mustang districts. The pass is part of the Nar Phu Valley Trek, a popular trekking route that covers Nar Phu valley and passes through a variety of landscapes, including forests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude passes.
Like many high-elevation passes in Nepal, Kang La Pass can be physically challenging and requires proper acclimatization and physical conditioning. However, for those who are up to the task, the journey to Kang La Pass is a rewarding and unforgettable experience, offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna massif and the surrounding landscape.
Meshokanto La Pass in Annapurna Region
The Meshokanto La Pass is a high mountain pass located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is situated at an elevation of around 4,949 meters (16,236 feet) above sea level and is located on the border between the Mustang and Myagdi districts. The pass is considered to be a challenging trek, and it is not recommended for inexperienced hikers. It is usually approached from the north, starting from the village of Jomsom and following the Kali Gandaki River towards the pass. The trek typically takes around 10 to 12 days to complete, depending on the route and the pace of the hikers. Along the way, hikers will be treated to stunning views of the Annapurna range, including the peaks of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre. The pass is usually traversed between October and November when the weather is at its best.
Nar Pass in Annapurna Region
Nar Pass is a mountain pass located in the Annapurna region of Nepal, in the Himalayas. It lies at an altitude of around 5,400 meters (17,717 feet) above sea level and is situated on the Nar Phu, a popular trekking route that encircles the Annapurna massif. The pass offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Gangapurna.
Trekking to Nar Pass is a challenging and physically demanding activity, as the pass is located at a high altitude and the terrain is rocky and steep. It is recommended for hikers to be in good physical shape and to be properly equipped with warm clothing, sturdy footwear, and other necessary gear. The best time to visit Nar Pass is from September to November or from March to May, when the weather is generally clear and dry.
Phu Pass in Annapurna Region
Phu Pass is a high mountain pass in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is located at an altitude of around 5,250 meters (17,224 feet) and is considered one of the most challenging and remote trekking routes in the region. The pass is situated between two villages, Phu and Nar, and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
The trek to Phu Pass typically takes about 10-12 days to complete, depending on the route and pace of the trekker. The trek begins in the village of Koto and passes through several small villages and hamlets, including Meta, Phu, and Nar, before reaching the pass. Along the way, trekkers will have the opportunity to experience the unique culture and traditions of the local communities and to witness the stunning natural beauty of the region.
Thorong La Pass in Annapurna Region
Thorong La Pass is a mountain pass located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit, a popular trek that circles the Annapurna massif. The pass sits at an elevation of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet) above sea level and is known for its challenging and potentially dangerous conditions.
The pass is located on the border between Mustang District and Manang District, and it is typically reached after several days of trekking from either the town of Jomsom or the village of Manang. From the pass, hikers can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges, including Annapurna South, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak.
Ganja La Pass in Langtang Region
Ganja La Pass is a high mountain pass located in the Langtang region of Nepal. It is situated at an altitude of 5,122 meters (16,800 feet) above sea level, and it lies on the border between Rasuwa and Nuwakot districts. The pass offers stunning views of the Langtang Lirung and other peaks in the region, and it is a popular destination for trekkers and hikers.
To reach the pass, you can follow the Langtang Valley Trek, which is a classic trek in the region that takes you through forests, pastures, and villages, and offers a chance to see a variety of wildlife and cultural attractions. The trek typically takes around 7-10 days to complete, depending on the route and pace you choose.
Lauribinayak La Pass in Langtang Region
Lauribinayak La Pass is a high mountain pass located in the Langtang region of Nepal. It is located at an altitude of 4,610 meters (15,120 feet) and is a popular route for trekkers and mountaineers who are looking to explore the Langtang region. The pass offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and is a great place to experience the beauty of the Himalayas. The pass is usually reached by trekking from the village of Dhunche, which is the starting point for many treks in the Langtang region. The trek to Lauribinayak La Pass typically takes about 5-7 days to complete, depending on the route and the pace of the trekker. It is a challenging trek that requires a good level of physical fitness and acclimatization to the high altitude. It is recommended to hire a guide or join a guided group for the trek, as the route can be difficult to follow and there are some technical sections that require experience to navigate safely.
Larkya La Pass in Manaslu Region
Larkya La Pass is a high mountain pass located in the Manaslu region of Nepal. It is located at an altitude of approximately 5,135 meters (16,853 feet) above sea level and is situated on the route between Dharapani and Larkya La, two villages in the region. The pass is a popular destination for trekkers and climbers who are attempting to reach the summit of Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest mountain in the world. The pass can be reached by following the Manaslu Circuit Trek, which is a popular trekking route in the region.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a challenging route that takes trekkers through beautiful and varied landscapes, including forests, villages, and high alpine areas. Along the way, trekkers will have the opportunity to experience the rich culture and traditions of the local Gurung and Tibetan-influenced communities and see a variety of wildlife, including yaks, Himalayan tahrs, and pikas. The pass itself offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers, including Mount Manaslu, and is a rewarding destination for those who are able to reach it.
Overall, Larkya La Pass is a beautiful and unique destination that offers an unforgettable experience for trekkers and nature enthusiasts. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a beginner, the Larkya La Pass is a must-visit destination in the Manaslu region of Nepal.
Mirgin La Pass in Kanchenjunga Region
Mirgin La Pass is a mountain pass located in the Kanchenjunga region of Nepal. It is located at an elevation of 4,620 meters (15,157 feet) above sea level and is a popular destination for trekkers and mountaineers. The pass offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world.
To reach Mirgin La Pass, trekkers typically start from the village of Taplejung and follow the popular route through the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. The trek to Mirgin La Pass involves a steep ascent through a remote and rugged landscape and can take up to 7-8 days, depending on the pace of the trekker.
The trek to Mirgin La Pass is considered one of the most challenging in the Kanchenjunga region, but also one of the most rewarding, offering an opportunity to explore the diverse landscape of the region, including forests, valleys, and high-altitude passes. It is also a chance to learn about the culture and way of life of the local Limbu people, who are native to the region.
Overall, Mirgin La Pass is a beautiful and challenging mountain pass in Nepal that offers an opportunity to explore the stunning landscape of the Kanchenjunga region and learn about the culture and way of life of the local Limbu people.
Selele Pass in Kanchenjunga Region
Selele Pass is a mountain pass located in the Kanchenjunga region of Nepal. It is a high-elevation pass situated at an altitude of approximately 5,640 meters (18,500 feet) above sea level, and it is located on the border between the Taplejung and Sankhuwasabha districts. The pass is part of the Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, a challenging trekking route that circles the Kanchenjunga massif, the third highest peak in the world.
The Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek is known for its stunning mountain views, including the towering peaks of Kanchenjunga South, Kanchenjunga Central, and Kanchenjunga North. It is also home to a number of ancient villages and monasteries, which provide insight into the culture and history of the region. Trekkers on the Kanchenjunga Circuit typically take about 20-25 days to complete the route, with Selele Pass being one of the highest points on the trek.
Like many high-elevation passes in Nepal, Selele Pass can be physically challenging and requires proper acclimatization and physical conditioning. However, for those who are up to the task, the journey to Selele Pass is a rewarding and unforgettable experience, offering breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga massif and the surrounding landscape.
Tashi Laptcha Pass in Rolwaling Region
The Tashi Laptcha Pass is a high mountain pass located in the Rolwaling region of Nepal. It is situated at an altitude of 5,755 meters (18,890 feet) above sea level and is considered one of the most challenging passes in the country. The pass connects the Rolwaling and Solu-Khumbu regions and is usually traversed by trekkers and mountaineers during the dry season, which runs from October to November.
The Tashi Laptcha Pass is known for its rugged and challenging terrain, which includes steep inclines, rocky trails, and snowy conditions. Trekkers typically need to be well-prepared and in good physical condition to complete the journey across the pass. The pass can be accessed from the Rolwaling side by starting from the village of Beding or from the Solu-Khumbu side by starting from Namche Bazaar.
There are several teahouses and lodges along the way that provide accommodation and meals for trekkers, but it is important to be self-sufficient and carry enough food and supplies for the journey. The Tashi Laptcha Pass is a challenging but rewarding trek that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Baga La Pass in Dolpo Region
Baga La Pass is a mountain pass located in the Dolpo region of Nepal, in the Himalayas. It lies at an altitude of around 5,080 meters (16,700 feet) above sea level and is situated on the popular trekking route known as the Dolpo Circuit. The pass offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Phalgu Tso, Churen Himal, and Kang Gurka.
Trekking to Baga La Pass is a challenging and physically demanding activity, as the pass is located at a high altitude and the terrain is rocky and steep. It is recommended for hikers to be in good physical shape and to be properly equipped with warm clothing, sturdy footwear, and other necessary gear. The best time to visit Baga La Pass is from September to November or from March to May, when the weather is generally clear and dry.
The Dolpo region is known for its remote and isolated location, as it is situated in the western part of Nepal and is relatively less visited by tourists compared to other regions in the country. The region is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including blue sheep, snow leopards, and yaks.
Jeng La Pass in Dolpo Region
Jeng La Pass is a high mountain pass located in the Dolpo region of Nepal. It is situated at an altitude of around 5,050 meters (16,568 feet) and is considered a challenging and remote trekking route.
The Jeng La Pass trek is a relatively long and strenuous journey, typically taking around 18-20 days to complete. The trek begins in the village of Dunai and passes through several small villages and hamlets, including Saldang, Namgung, and Jeng-La, before reaching the pass. Along the way, trekkers will have the opportunity to experience the unique culture and traditions of the local communities and to witness the stunning natural beauty of the region, including snow-capped peaks, deep gorges, and ancient monasteries.
Kagmara-La Pass in Dolpo Region
Kagmara-La Pass is a mountain pass located in the Dolpo region of Nepal. It sits at an elevation of 5,115 meters (16,798 feet) above sea level and is the highest point on the Kagmara Circuit, a popular trek that circles the Kagmara massif. The pass is located in a remote and isolated region of Nepal and is known for its challenging and potentially dangerous conditions.
From the pass, hikers can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges, including Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and the Tibetan Plateau. The pass is located on the border between Dolpo District and Mustang District and is typically reached after several days of trekking from the village of Dunai or the town of Jomsom.
Nangdalo Pass in Dolpo Region
Nangdalo Pass, also known as Nangdalo La, is a high mountain pass located in the Dolpo region of Nepal. It is situated at an altitude of 5,190 meters (17,000 feet) above sea level, and it lies on the border between Dolpo and Mugu districts. The pass offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and landscapes, and it is a popular destination for trekkers and hikers.
To reach the pass, you can follow the Dolpo Circuit Trek, which is a challenging and remote trek that takes you through beautiful valleys, forests, and pastures, and offers a chance to see a variety of wildlife and cultural attractions. The trek typically takes around 15-20 days to complete, depending on the route and pace you choose.
Numa La Pass in Dolpo Region
It is not uncommon for mountain passes to be located in remote and challenging locations, so in that sense, the Numa La Pass may not necessarily be unique. However, the Lower Dolpo Trek that takes trekkers to the Numa La Pass does offer a unique and one-of-a-kind experience. The trek features an itinerary of about 18 days from Kathmandu and allows trekkers to explore Phoksundo Lake, ancient Buddhist villages, and gain insights into the Bon Po religion. These features may make the Lower Dolpo Trek stand out among other treks in Nepal. Additionally, the Numa La Pass itself may offer unique and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, which could make the pass itself a unique destination.
Nyalu Lagna Pass in Dolpo Region
Nyalu Lagna Pass is a high mountain pass located in the Dolpo region of Nepal. It is located at an altitude of approximately 5,150 meters (16,896 feet) above sea level and is situated on the route between Shey Phoksundo and Saldang, two villages in the region. The pass is a popular destination for trekkers and climbers who are attempting to reach the summit of Mount Dhaulagiri, the seventh highest mountain in the world. The pass can be reached by following the Dolpo Circuit Trek, which is a popular trekking route in the region.
The Dolpo Circuit Trek is a challenging route that takes trekkers through beautiful and varied landscapes, including forests, villages, and high alpine areas. Along the way, trekkers will have the opportunity to experience the rich culture and traditions of the local Tibetan-influenced communities and see a variety of wildlife, including yaks, Himalayan tahrs, and pikas. The pass itself offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers, including Mount Dhaulagiri, and is a rewarding destination for those who are able to reach it.
Overall, Nyalu Lagna Pass is a beautiful and unique destination that offers an unforgettable experience for trekkers and nature enthusiasts. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a beginner, the Nyalu Lagna Pass is a must-visit destination in the Dolpo region of Nepal.
Saldang La Pass in Dolpo Region
Saldang La Pass is a mountain pass located in the Dolpo region of Nepal. It is located at an elevation of 4,620 meters (15,157 feet) above sea level and is a popular destination for trekkers and mountaineers. The pass offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Pharka Chuli and Kanjirowa Himal.
To reach Saldang La Pass, trekkers typically start from the village of Juphal and follow the popular route through the Dolpo region. The trek to Saldang La Pass involves a steep ascent through a remote and rugged landscape and can take up to 7-8 days, depending on the pace of the trekker.
The trek to Saldang La Pass is considered one of the most challenging in the Dolpo region, but also one of the most rewarding, offering an opportunity to explore the diverse landscape of the region, including forests, valleys, and high-altitude passes. It is also a chance to learn about the culture and way of life of the local Tibetan-speaking people, who are native to the region.
Overall, Saldang La Pass is a beautiful and challenging mountain pass in Nepal that offers an opportunity to explore the stunning landscape of the Dolpo region and learn about the culture and way of life of the local Tibetan-speaking people.
French Pass in Dhaulagiri Region
French Pass is a mountain pass located in the Dhaulagiri region of Nepal. It is a high-elevation pass situated at an altitude of approximately 5,360 meters (17,590 feet) above sea level, and it is located on the border between the Myagdi and Dolpa districts. The pass is part of the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, a popular trekking route that circles the Dhaulagiri massif, the seventh highest peak in the world.
The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is known for its stunning mountain views, including the towering peak of Dhaulagiri, as well as other peaks such as Tukuche, Nilgiri, and Annapurna South. It is also home to a number of ancient villages and monasteries, which provide insight into the culture and history of the region. Trekkers on the Dhaulagiri Circuit typically take about 12-15 days to complete the route, with French Pass being one of the highest points on the trek.
Kora La Pass in Upper Mustang Region
Kora La Pass is a mountain pass located in the Upper Mustang region of Nepal, in the Himalayas. It lies at an altitude of around 5,050 meters (16,570 feet) above sea level and is situated on the popular trekking route known as the Upper Mustang Trek. The pass offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Nilgiri, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri.
Trekking to Kora La Pass is a challenging and physically demanding activity, as the pass is located at a high altitude and the terrain is rocky and steep. It is recommended for hikers to be in good physical shape and to be properly equipped with warm clothing, sturdy footwear, and other necessary gear. The best time to visit Kora La Pass is from September to November or from March to May, when the weather is generally clear and dry.
The Upper Mustang region is known for its unique and isolated culture, as it was once a separate kingdom within Nepal and has maintained its own traditions and way of life. The region is also home to a variety of flora and fauna, including blue sheep, Himalayan wolves, and yaks.
Saribung Pass in Upper Mustang Region
Saribung Pass is a mountain pass located in the Upper Mustang region of Nepal. It sits at an elevation of 5,500 meters (18,045 feet) above sea level and is the highest point on the Saribung Trek, a popular trek that circles the Saribung massif. The pass is located in a remote and isolated region of Nepal and is known for its challenging and potentially dangerous conditions.
From the pass, hikers can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges, including Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and the Tibetan Plateau. The pass is located on the border between Mustang District and Dolpo District and is typically reached after several days of trekking from the village of Lo Manthang or the town of Jomsom.
Teri La Pass in Upper Mustang Region
Teri La Pass is a high mountain pass located in the Upper Mustang region of Nepal. It is situated at an altitude of 5,080 meters (16,660 feet) above sea level, and it lies on the border between Mustang and Manang districts. The pass offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and landscapes, and it is a popular destination for trekkers and hikers.
To reach the pass, you can follow the Upper Mustang Trek, which is a classic trek in the region that takes you through beautiful valleys, forests, and pastures, and offers a chance to see a variety of wildlife and cultural attractions. The trek typically takes around 8-12 days to complete, depending on the route and pace you choose.
Conclusion
Nepal, known for its breathtaking mountain ranges, is a paradise for trekkers from around the world. One of the highlights of trekking in Nepal is the opportunity to cross mountain passes, which are the highest points on a trek and offer stunning views from high altitudes. These passes serve as a route between two mountain peaks and are a unique feature of the Nepalese landscape.