In the southern lap of the Himalayas, Nepal is typically a wonderful tourist destination. With its majestic peaks, Nepal is globally renowned for trekking and adventure. Almost every trekking region in Nepal has mountain passes whereas most of the trekking regions are known for their passes. A mountain pass is a passable route through a mountain range used for crossing a mountain. In Nepal, it is commonly known as La.

The shape of the passes in Nepal is generally like horse lumber that sits between the mountains distinguishing two regions. Trekkers who have been to the Nepalese Himalayas have a realistic memory of crossing those passes. These mountain passes in Nepal are thrilling yet remarkably exciting. Therefore, connecting two or more incredible peaks, these passes make way for charming mountain villages.

In the early days, this mountain pass used to play a significant role in trade and migration between Nepal and Tibet. It used to be a trading route for Tibetan and Nepalese merchants. Nepal Himalayas form a common barrier from the north with Tibet which made traveling easier in the past. This made migration and trading between two countries possible. Because of this, culture in higher altitudes is similar to that of Tibet.

Mountain Passes in Nepal

Additionally, the passes provide an exceptional opportunity to appreciate the area’s natural beauty. It can be a gateway to different base camp treks. Likewise, adding extra challenge and adventure to the trekking routes, the passes offer heart-pounding and breathtaking beauty, making the visitors pleased and delighted.

Almost every trekking region has at least one pass from where the view is majestic. The pass is generally found above the source of the river. Some passes are more popular in Nepal like Cho La Pass, Thorong La Pass, Renjo La Pass, etc. Generally, these mountain passes lie 5000m above sea level and seem challenging to those who are new to this journey. However, with some precautions and measures, the trek to pass becomes memorable to everyone.

With the magnificent Himalayan range in Nepal, many passes have their outlook. However, we have here the list of 10 famous mountain passes in Nepal. So, if you are wondering about an unforgettable adventure then you can consider trekking this pass.

Amphu Lapcha Pass

The Amphu Lapcha pass is the pass that comes across during the journey to the Mera Leak climbing. Amphu la pass is one of the challenging yet exciting journeys in the Everest region. It is one of the famous mountain passes in Nepal. Mera peak stands tall at 6654m and offers exciting, scenically stunning mountain views of the Everest region. This journey lets you witness the panorama of the five world’s 8000-meter peaks i.e. Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, as well as Kanchenjunga. Furthermore, the Amphu Lapcha pass is technically straightforward and physically demanding which requires trekkers to use the climbing equipment along with their physical fitness.

A stunning scenario of lakes, glaciers, and valleys awaits you during this trek. With an exceptional view of the wilder upper Hongu valley, Honku glacier, and large frozen lakes, this trek is overwhelming to everyone who wants to go for it. Similarly, holding the heart of the Himalayas, the Amphu Lapcha pass is one of the popular adventures to the Himalayas.

Trip Highlights of Amphu Lapcha Pass

• The Amphu Lapcha passes takes you to Nepal’s most popular peak Mera with splendid views of high Himalayan panorama
• crossing over challenging Amphu Lapcha La Pass
• Explore several valleys and glaciers and lakes including the Honku glacier, large frozen lakes, and Pachpokhari (five lakes)
• Witness the eye-catching views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Baruntse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Amadablam, Mt. Chamlang, Mt. Makalu, etc
• ExploreTyangboche monastery and a tourist hun Namche Bazaar.
• Get familiar with the local culture and tradition.

Mera Peak Climbing with Amphu Lapcha Trek is a two-week trek starting with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. Likewise, from Lukla walking through the dense forest passing through several monasteries, the view of Everest gets closer every time you take a step forward. During the journey, you will visit different Sherpa settlements where you can explore their culture and lifestyle with warm hospitality.

Cho La Pass

A passionate adventure with the desire to get an exceptional view of the fresh Himalayan region, makes Cho La pass one of the most popular mountain passes in Nepal. A summit pass at an altitude of 5420m in Solu Khumbu district connects the village of Dzomgla to the east and Thagnak to the west. The Cho La Pass is on the way to the Gokyo trek and is ideal for those who want an extreme adventure to the Nepali Himalayas. Climbing through the pristine icefalls and massive glaciers would make the journey much more enhancing.

Furthermore, the trek is a combination of the breathtaking view of the Himalayas along with the glaciers, lakes, and natural sublime. During this trek, one gets a wonderful opportunity to witness the fresh Gomyo lake. Also, the journey lets you encounter the Ngozumpa glacier, the biggest glacier in the country.

The most challenging part of this strenuous trek is the pass itself. At an altitude of 5,420 m. Likewise, the pass can be physically demanding which may require crampons to climb on a slippery glacier. Likewise, the edge of the glacier is unstable. However, the difficulty is rewarded with the incomparable beauty with the close-up views of five peaks higher than 8,000m namely Lhotse, Makalu, Lhotse-Shar, Cho Oyu, and Everest. Apart from the natural scenario, the trek even offers to observe the lifestyle of Sherpa communities, their culture, and hospitality.

Trip Highlights of Cho La Pass

• A wonderful trek across Cho LA Pass (5420m)
• Exploration of Gokyo Village, Gokyo Ri, and the Gokyo Lakes
• Trek around the Everest Base Camp area (EBC)
• Thrilling yet exciting adventure to Gokyo RI, Chukkung Ri, and Kalapathar
• The sublime scene of Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu, Mt. Choyou, as well as other mountain ranges in Khumbu.
• Witness the icefall and glacier of the Mahalangur Himalayan range.
• Ngozumpa “The world’s largest glacier”.

At 5210m a great adventure awaits you and the adventure starts with a 30 minutes scenic flight to Lukla. From Lukla, the trek comes across some popular trails such as Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and a few other regions in the Khumbu. Similarly, following the Dudh Koshi river, we come across the biggest glacier in Nepal– the Ngozumpa glacier. Furthermore, taking steep ascents, the scenery from Kalapatthar and Gokyo Ri makes all the strenuous walks worthwhile. Therefore, reaching the top of Cho La pass, you forget your tiredness, your hardships, and your struggle by the majestic vistas.

Teri La Pass

It is one of the recently discovered trekking routes in the Upper Mustang. Teri La pass lies at Nar and Phu valley of remote Himalayas area near Tibet. The trekkers need a special permit for the trek as it lies in a restricted area. Similarly, taking you to an altitude of 5590m, this trek showcases an exceptional landscape with walls made of red-colored rocks, colorful canyons, and striking structures of erosion. Additionally, Mustang has been a popular destination for tourism ever since it was started to open to foreigners. Then, later, this trek also gains its popularity as the people trekking to the upper mustang pass-through this trek.

Trip Highlights of Teri La Pass

• Exploration of the isolated valley of hidden Naar, and Phu.
• Eye-catching views from the pass Teri La of upper Mustang as well as Annapurna region
• Admirable scenery of diverse vegetation with natural landscapes
• Exploration of medieval villages and local tradition similar to that of Tibetan tradition.

On the other hand, trekking to the pass lets you witness the stunning veiled Nar Phu valley, antique villages, as well as monasteries. The villages, people, and their traditions are untouched by the outside world and modernization. Because the place lies near Tibet, the culture and tradition here are different from the rest of the people in Nepal and similar to that of Tibet. So, trekking to this pass has the benefit of getting close to Tibetan culture and tradition as well. Similarly, following the veiled path of Mustang, the trails will take you to Lo-Manthang, the capital of Mustang. Also, when it is trekking to the Himalayas region the vistas of Mountains is compulsory. Likewise, the views of the Himalayas from the past are astonishing.

Therefore, the pass offers magnificent Himalayan vistas like the Annapurna range, Gangapurna, Tilicho, etc. Besides, the trek passes through having to directly face the subalpine and alpine vegetation as the trek passes through high altitude.

Thorong La Pass

Spectacular Thorong La Pass is one of the most popular mountain passes in Nepal. Stunning vistas of Annapurna (I-IV), Manaslu, Gangapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and even Langtang Lirung.

Exploration of the diverse culture, diverse vegetation, lushness of the landscape, and its arid nature
trekking past the deepest river gorge in the world

Thorong La pass lies at the climax point of the Annapurna Circuit at 5,416 meters altitude. It is considered to be the challenging trek to the Annapurna circuit. As Annapurna is the most visited trekking route, that means that trekkers have to pass through Thorong La pass. The two mountains that form this pass are Khatung Kang (6,484m) and Yaskawa Kang (6,482m). The pass connects Manang and Muktinath whereas it divides two distinct river valleys of the Annapurna region, Marsayangdi and Kali Gandaki. The pass is astonishing itself as it offers the stunning vistas of Annapurna (I-IV), Manaslu, Gangapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and even Langtang Lirung.

The Thorong La pass has it all from climbing across the most extensive pass in the world to trekking past the deepest river gorge in the world. Besides, this trek lets you explore the diverse culture with the influence of Hinduism in the lower region and Buddhism in the higher region. Also, Thorong La pass is the highest point of the circuit trek to Annapurna. The route to the trek is arduous however with adequate equipment and preparation the trek becomes much easier and more convenient. Thus, the journey to Thorong La Pass rewards you with the samples of challenges, diversity, natural landscapes, and the extensive Himalayas.

Kongma La pass

Kongma La pass is one of the rarely visited passes in Nepal which lies in the Everest region. At 5545m, Kongma La Pass is one of the high adventure passes and is included within the three passes trek of the Everest region. The pass heads separately heading towards the Everest base camp. With an exceptional view of the Himalayan range, this pass is the glory in the Everest region. The Kongma La pass is ahead of the Khumbu glacier and opposite the Lobuche peak. Presenting the picturesque mountain view, Kongma is the demanding high altitude pass in Nepal between Dingboche and Lobuche. It is one of the less crowded trekking passes in Nepal.

Trip Highlights of Kongma La Pass

• Fantastic view of the majestic mountains of the Everest region like Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, etc.
• The eye-catching view of glacial lakes from the pass.
• Natural as well as cultural exploration of Khumbu region
• Exploration of a wonderful sherpa village in Namche.
• The breathtaking view of the Himalayas from Kala Patthar.

These off-beat trekking trails offer a fantastic view of the majestic mountains of the Everest region like Mt. Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and many more. Apart from this, the pass even offers an eye-catching view of Mt. Thamserku, Mt Amadablam, Mt. Kangtega, and numerous peaks and glacial Lakes. The trek is all about natural as well as cultural exploration. You will come across several Sherpa villages and get the opportunity to gain insight into their culture.
The trek starts with the scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla.

The trails head towards the l Sherpa village to Namche where you will have acclimatization day. From here, pass through the forest of Rhododendron and trek towards Tengboche. Likewise, pass through several places above the Khumbu glacier contrary to Lobuche in the Everest region. The contemporary view from Kongma La showcases Chhukung village in the south from the top and charming Khumbu Glacier appears back from the top.

Renjo La Pass

The Renjo La pass is an adventurous trekking destination where one can explore high mountains and glacial lakes. Renjo La Pass at an altitude of (5380m), lies over the Machhermo glacier in the Sagarmatha National Park region. The Renjo La Pass also falls under the famous mountain passes in Nepal. It is an adventurous journey showcasing the forest of rhododendron and juniper in many places.

The trek to Renjo La offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the unique landscapes and mesmerizing mountains. The Sherpa village along with its culture, high Himalayas, Lush green valleys as well as Several heritage sites, are the highlights of this trek. Besides, one can witness the wonderful scenario of the Gokyo Lakes and Ngozumpa- the longest glacier. The Renjo La pass trek combines the Everest Base Camp trekking and three high passes trekking trails.

Trip Highlights of Renjo La Pass

• At an altitude of 5360m, Renjo La is an adventure pass in the Khumbu region.
• Famous Mountain Passes in Nepal
• The Gokyo Valley and Gokyo Ri.
• Fabulous views of the Everest Himalayan range and popular peaks.
• A trip to heritage sites such as Thame, Namche Bazaar, and Khumjung.

Renjo La pass connects Gokyo Lakes and Nagpala and is extremely remote which is mostly more active as a trading route than other passes. At this pass, one could meet Tibetan merchants with their yaks’ caravan descending from Nangpa La pass. The Renjo La Pass Trekking trail offers fabulous views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Makalu, Mt. Cho Oyu, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Pumori, Mt. Ama Dablam, Thamserku, etc. Renjo La is a demanding pass therefore, the trekkers need a proper level of physical fitness and acclimatization. This can ease up your journey to some limits however, the journey overall is challenging and you need to be prepared ahead of time.

Ganja La Pass

Langtang Ganja La Pass trek is located northwest of Kathmandu Valley and is the nearest trekking pass from the valley. It is a standout amongst the most frequent treks that offers snow-secured high passes, great views of mountains, ancient culture and religion, Langtang and Helambu valleys, along natural life. Mountain Passes in Nepal as The trek passes through the absorb trails of the Langtang region to the barrel trails of Helambu via the frozen Ganja La Pass (5130m). Another highlight of the trek can be relishing plenty in the radiant climate of streams, backwoods, and high pinnacles. Completely unspoiled by human interference, the trek can soak up the view in solitude.

Trip Highlights of Langtang Ganja La Pass

• Nearest pass from the Kathmandu Valley at an altitude of 5130m
• Pristine nature is unspoiled with human interference.
• An ancient monastery Kyanjin Gompa
• Tamang and Sherpa village at Langtang region
• Unique cultural exploration

The trek starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi and passes several Tamang settlements in the Langtang valley. From here the trail then goes through the alpine vegetation and reaches the Kyanjin Gompa. It is one of the sacred monasteries for Tamanags. Then passing through several villages the trail then reaches the compelling Ganja La Pass (5130m), the highest altitude of the trek. Furthermore, the trail then passes through Jelambu, A sherpa village, and finishes at Melamchi Pul in the Helambu locale. Therefore, the trek to Ganja La pass has its all from the dense and colorful Rhododendron forests, snow-capped mountains, exalted waterfalls, and unique civilizations.

Kang La Pass

The Kang La Pass at 5320m was opened for visitors in 2003 in the sacred valley of Annapurna corner. The Kang La pass trek is ideal for those who have an appetite to venture into the remote regions of Nepal highly untouched by modernization. Furthermore, the 18 days long pass is the hidden gem of the miracle valley offering the panoramic view of Himlung Himal 7126m, Saribung peak 6345 m. Besides, visit the untouched hamlet by the modernity of the old historical Buddhist monastery at Phu Gumba. Also, the Phu village is the main point for the 3 passes i.e. Teri la, Saribung via Upper mustang, and the entire Kang la pass from Nawang of Ngawang of Manang.

Trip Highlights of Kang La Pass

• Kangla pass to Mesokato la pass trek
• Kangla pass trek 5320m
• Splendid Mountain Passes in Nepal
• Explore the hidden tranquility of miracle Nar Phu valley
• Deepest George, Kaligandaki
• Stunning view of massive Dhaulagiri 8,167 m, Tukuchi peak, Dhampus peak, and Nilgiri mountains.

The scenario of the Mesokamtola is stunning showcasing the heart-touching miracle of mustang valley, Jomsom 2,743 m, Kaligandaki river, massif Dhaulagiri 8,167 m, Tukuchi peak, Campus peak, and Nilgiri mountains. Therefore, the trek even leads you to the hidden valley and Kaligandaki gorge, the deepest gorge in between the two highest mountains Annapurna I and Dhaulagiri.

Mesokanto La Pass

This is an alternative route of the Thorong La Pass trek with a unique wilderness trail from Manang village to Jomsom in the Annapurna region. Passing through the famous Tilicho lake at altitude 4920 meters high, the trek provides a heartwarming memory. During the journey, one will be blessed with the beautiful mountain vistas of Mount Manaslu 8163 m, Mount Dhaulagiri 8167m, Mount Annapurna I 8091m, as well as other several capped mountains of the Annapurna region. The pass lies above Tilicho lake and is a technical and adventurous trip to the Himalayan region in Nepal. Tilicho is the lake at the highest altitude which is 1 km wide and 4 km long.

Trip Highlights of Mesokanto

• Beautiful mountains vistas of Mount Manaslu 8163 m, Mount Dhaulagiri 8167m, Mount Annapurna I 8091m
• The heartwarming scenario of Tilicho lake
• Warm hospitality and culture of the people living around that area.
• Walk by the side of Marshyangdi River and the ancient valley of Manang
• Several ancient Gompas and monasteries

Mesokanto is a peaceful and extremely incredible pass. Hiking on this trail provides stunning views of the Himalayas along with the natural landscapes. The trail goes through the Marshyangdi River and reaches the ancient valley of Manang. Additionally, the valley is surrounded by a unique landscape and there one can explore ancient Buddhist monasteries. Also, Khanshar village ‘The Last Village’ is another highlight of the trek.

Larkya La pass

Mt. Manaslu Larkya La pass is a well-renowned pass providing pristine mountain vistas and natural landscapes. Mt. Manaslu at 8163m is the 8th highest peak in the world whose name originates from “The Spirit-Mountain” in the local tongue, referring to the benevolent and strong deity. The trekking route has been open since 1991, to the outside world. Likewise, the trek to Manaslu offers fantastic mountain views, rich culture, Manaslu Larkya La Pass trek, is part of the Nepalese lifestyle and their way of living. The Larkya La Pass trek has gained popularity among trekkers nowadays. Nowadays, the trek services and facilities have been vast as there are several teahouses and one can event for camping as well.

Trip Highlights of Larkya La Pass

• Attractive views of Himchuli, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Ngadi Chuli, as well as other mountains,
• The beautiful varied landscape and different flora and fauna.
• Combination of cultural heritage with diverse vegetation
• Explore the remote region with their tranquil way of life.
• Tibetan influenced Gompas and monasteries.

The Manaslu Larkya La Pass Circuit Trek offers an exceptional combination of rich cultural heritage, majestic Himalayan beauty, and rich and diverse vegetation. The trek to the pass is demanding and requires good physical fitness. Furthermore, the passes through several forests of Rhododendron and follows Buri Gandaki River to Larkya La Pass 5135m with attractive views of Himchuli, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Ngadi Chuli, and other mountains, beautiful varied landscape, and different flora and fauna.