Thorang La Pass — Attraction in Barhagaun Muktikhsetra

Thorong La Pass (5,416m) — the highest trekking pass in the world, and the highest point I’ve ever reached, both in altitude and emotion. This was my first true trek, and even now, it feels surreal. Just two days earlier, I had reached Tilicho Lake through heavy snowfall and relentless wind — a physically punishing and mentally draining journey. I was exhausted, frozen, and honestly unsure if I had the strength to continue.

But I did. I kept going — one careful step, one determined breath at a time. And on a freezing morning of April 30, 2025, I stood atop Thorong La Pass.

The sun was still hiding behind the peaks, the wind cut deep, and the air was thin and sharp. I could barely feel my fingers. My breath came in short, aching bursts. But I had made it. Surrounded by snow-covered silence and prayer flags dancing in the icy air, I felt something I can only describe as peaceful pride — the kind that fills you up from within.

Thorong La isn’t just a high-altitude pass — it’s a personal summit. Especially after the challenge of Tilicho, it tested every limit I thought I had. And in return, it gave me something I’ll carry forever: stillness, strength, and the quiet knowledge that I did it.

For anyone considering this route: prepare with care, respect the altitude, and take it slow. You won’t just cross a mountain — you’ll cross into a version of yourself you’ve never met before. And that is the...

Reaching this pass gives the feeling like "you made it". Take a moment to thank God for helping you by keeping the weather good, otherwise you could not have made it. Some tips: Start from High camp early - 5 am or before that. Distance from High camp to this pass is only 4 Km, but it is normal if you take 4 hours to reach here. Nothing to be ashamed of that. The thin air slows you down like crazy. There is a small tea shop at this pass. It is expensive due to the high altitude and difficult location. But it is a good idea to have at least a hot cup of tea there so you will feel refreshed and ready for the descent. Don't underestimate the descent to Muktinath. The descent is in fact more tiring than the ascent. Use hiking poles during the long and steep descent. They will save you from knee pain and also reduce the chances of falling. Total time from High camp to Muktinath can be 7 to 10 hours. Pack some high calory snacks and enough water before...

For me, it was fantastic, I crossed on 25th April. There was practically no snow.

For me, the altitude made it very hard, and very rewarding.

There are quite a few 'false peaks' as you ascend, so the sight of the prayer flags and the cafe was WONDERFUL for me. It's a tiny cafe but it's great to have a tea, smile from ear to ear take a few pictures, and savour the moment.

A wonderful experience.

Just for info if you are trecking solo and want a bit of help for that last climb to the pass the hotels at Thorung Pedi offer a porter service to get you backpack to the top. The going rate quotes to two people separately in April 2024...