There are many mountain passes in Nepal, from the well-known Thorong La and Everest Three Passes, as well as the more obscure passes in Kanchenjunga, Humla, Mustang and Rolwaling. A mountain pass is a natural pass through mountains between two valleys. Numerous passes in Nepal are located above 5,000 m, providing high mountain vistas, far-away views and tough tracks.

Some mountain passes in Nepal are suitable for fit trekkers with good acclimatization, while others will only work for the experienced high-altitude trekker and with special equipment. Amphu Lapcha and Tashi Lapcha, for instance, are more technical and challenging. Here you will read about 15 significant passes of the mountains of Nepal, their height, location, difficulty, trekking routes, scenery and who they are for.

Quick Comparison of Mountain Passes in Nepal

Mountain Pass	Approx. Elevation	Region	Difficulty	Main Trek
Amphu Lapcha Pass	5,845 m	Everest	Very Difficult	Amphu Lapcha Pass Trek
Tashi Lapcha Pass	5,755 m	Rolwaling/Everest	Very Difficult	Rolwaling Tashi Lapcha Trek
Teri La Pass	5,577 m	Mustang	Very Difficult	Teri La Pass Trek
Kongma La Pass	5,535 m	Everest	Difficult	Everest Three Passes Trek
Cho La Pass	5,420 m	Everest	Difficult	Everest Three Passes Trek
Thorong La Pass	5,416 m	Annapurna	Difficult	Annapurna Circuit Trek
Renjo La Pass	5,360 m	Everest	Difficult	Everest Three Passes Trek
Kang La Pass	About 5,320 m	Nar Phu	Difficult	Nar Phu Valley Trek
Mesokanto La Pass	About 5,100 to 5,340 m*	Annapurna	Very Difficult	Mesokanto La Trek
Larkya La Pass	About 5,106 m	Manaslu	Difficult	Manaslu Circuit Trek
Lumba Sumba Pass	5,160 m	Eastern Nepal	Very Difficult	Lumba Sumba Pass Trek
Ganja La Pass	About 5,100 m	Langtang	Difficult	Ganja La Pass Trek
Nyalu Lagna Pass	4,995 m	Humla	Difficult	Limi Valley Trek
Sele La Pass	4,290 m	Kanchenjunga	Moderate to Difficult	Kanchenjunga Circuit
Salpa Pass	3,350 m	Arun Valley	Moderate	Arun Valley Trek

Mountain Passes in Nepal

1. Amphu Lapcha Pass: A High and Technical Mountain Crossing

Amphu Lapcha Pass is at an elevation of approximately 5,845m and one of the most difficult and highest trekking passes in Nepal. It is in the Everest Region and is the link between Imja Valley and Hinku Valley in the far remote area.

The route becomes much harder as it moves above the tree line. Trekkers may encounter steep rock, snow, ice, moraine, and exposed sections near the pass. Conditions can change with the season, so the equipment needed for the crossing also varies.

The route leads hikers through the Khumbu into less busy high-altitude areas. It is a fast-changing landscape, from green valleys to rocky slopes, glaciers and snow-covered mountains.

The summit provides great views of the surrounding peaks in the Himalayas, but climbing to the top isn’t easy. This route is suitable for previous high-altitude experience, appropriate acclimatization, and appropriate mountain equipment.

Amphu Lapcha Pass Highlights

• Technical crossing with steep snow and ice
• Connects the Imja and Hinku valleys glacier and high-altitude mountain experience
• Views of Lhotse Shar, Island Peak, and Imja Glacier.
• Remote route away from the main Everest trail
• Suitable for experienced high-altitude trekkers
• Spring and autumn are generally preferred for better conditions
• Licensed guide and agency-issued TIMS are required for the listed Amphu Lapcha route under current Nepal Tourism Board rules

Best for: Experienced trekkers seeking a technical mountain crossing

2. Tashi Lapcha Pass: The High Crossing from Rolwaling to Everest

Tashi Lapcha Pass is approximately 5,755 m high and links with the far-away Rolwaling Valley and the Everest region. It is one of the highest and the most rigorous trekking crossing in Nepal.

The route passes through villages such as Simigaon, Beding, and Na before reaching Tsho Rolpa and the high mountain country beyond it. The upper section becomes more difficult, with steep ground, glacial terrain, and limited accommodation.

Before arriving at the pass, you’ll find one of the main attractions as Tsho Rolpa. The large glacial lake is located in the upper part of the valley, with steep mountain walls and high peaks creating a striking contrast to the lower valleys.

From there trekkers trek down towards Thame in the Everest region after crossing Tashi Lapcha. The path is well suited for those who are well prepared due to the difficult terrain, isolation, and altitude.

Tashi Lapcha Pass Highlights

• Connects Rolwaling Valley with the Everest region
• Visit to Tsho Rolpa glacial lake and high-altitude trekking experience
• Crossing of the Drolambau Glacier area
• Remote Sherpa settlements such as Beding and Na
• Views of Gauri Shankar and the Khumbu peaks
• Camping experience in remote sections
• Spring and autumn are generally favored for the crossing
• Licensed guide and agency-issued TIMS are required for the listed Tashi Lapcha route

Best for: Experienced trekkers seeking a remote crossing

3. Teri La Pass: A Remote High Pass in Mustang

Teri La Pass is approximately 5,577m and one of the highest passes located in the farthest region of Mustang. It is located away from the main trekking trails of Nepal and provides a more serene trek in the high Himalayas.

The area around the pass has a dry and rugged appearance, with barren slopes, gravel trails, high valleys, and little vegetation at higher elevations. The scenery looks very different from the forested mountain routes of eastern Nepal.

The crossing is a long and strenuous day at high altitude. On some routes, there are no camping places and on others the trail is steep and difficult.

Teri La also passes through regions where special trekking permits might apply. It is for the trekkers’ safety to check the current regulations before travelling, as conditions in the restricted areas and along the route may change.

Teri La Pass Highlights

• Connects the Nar Phu and Upper Mustang areas
• Remote camping journey far from busy trekking routes
• Dry Mustang valleys and high rocky ridges
• Views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Purkung Himal
• Tibetan-influenced villages and mountain culture
• Long, demanding crossing above 5,500 meters
• Ideal for experienced trekkers seeking remote routes
• Spring and autumn generally provide the most favorable conditions
• Restricted-area permits and conservation-area permits are required according to the route and areas crossed

Best for: Experienced trekkers seeking a remote route

4. Kongma La Pass: The Highest of the Everest Three Passes

Kongma La is the highest of the three main passes along the classic Everest Three Passes Trek and is approximately 5,535 meters high. The pass is situated between Chhukung and Lobuche and crosses through rough high altitudes and high moraines.

It is less sheltered and less developed than the main Everest Base Camp trail, making the crossing feel much more remote.

This is particularly rewarding on clear days when the high point affords views to the surrounding peaks and glaciers. Unlike its neighbouring passes, there is no proper teahouse on the crossing, so the trekkers have to cross the pass between the given teahouses.

The Kongma La Pass is the highest of the three passes, while the difficulty is determined by snow, weather conditions, fitness and acclimatization.

Highlights of Kongma La Pass

• Highest of the three Everest passes
• Connects the Chhukung and Lobuche sides of Khumbu
• Rocky moraine and high mountain terrain
• Views toward Makalu, Lobuche, Ama Dablam, and surrounding peaks
• Remote crossing with no regular teahouse at the pass
• Core section of the Everest Three Passes Trek
• Excellent choice for experienced Everest trekkers
• Spring and autumn are generally preferred
• Everest Three Passes routes are subject to current Nepal trekking entry and guide requirements

Best for: Fit trekkers with high-altitude experience

5. Cho La Pass: The Glacier Crossing Between Gokyo and Everest

Cho La Pass is at approximately 5420 meters above sea level and connects the Gokyo Valley to the Everest Base Camp side of the Khumbu.

It is one of the most popular high passes in Nepal that allows trekkers to join Gokyo and the Everest trail without going on the same valley twice. The high section can be icy and snowy, particularly following new snow.

The trail climbs toward the pass through increasingly rugged ground before crossing the high section and descending toward the other valley.

Elevations can make crossing more difficult than the snow and glacier conditions. The route is also a key component of the Everest Three Passes route and is also a popular option for trekkers who go to Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes and also cross through one of the passes.

Highlights of Cho La Pass

• Connects the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo areas
• Glacier and snow crossing experience
• Access to the beautiful Gokyo Valley
• High-altitude views of the Khumbu peaks
• Important section of the Everest Three Passes Trek
• Snow conditions can change the difficulty of the crossing
• Ideal for experienced trekkers who want variety
• Spring and autumn are generally the preferred seasons
• Current Everest trekking rules require the appropriate route permits and guide/TIMS arrangements

Best for: Experienced high-altitude trekkers

6. Thorong La Pass: The Famous Crossing of the Annapurna Circuit

Thorong La Pass is the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit, soaring to approximately 5,416 m. The pass connects the Manang side of the circuit with Muktinath in Mustang and is one of the most popular high passes in Nepal.

Unlike many remote passes, the route has a well-developed network of villages and teahouses before and after the pass.

Thorong La is very accessible for the established infrastructure, but still a technical pass and requires proper acclimatisation.

The pass day usually starts early on the pass as a long day, and the weather conditions can be unpredictable at high altitude. At the summit, the path goes down to Muktinath, an important cultural and pilgrimage spot.

Highlights of Thorong La Pass

• Highest point of the Annapurna Circuit
• Connects Manang with Muktinath
• Long-established high-altitude trekking route
• Dramatic transition from Manang to the Mustang side
• Mountain views around the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri regions
• Muktinath lies on the descent side of the crossing
• More teahouse support than many remote high passes
• Spring and autumn are generally the most favorable seasons
• Annapurna Circuit trekkers need the applicable entry and trekking documentation

Best for: Fit trekkers wanting a famous high-pass crossing

7. Renjo La Pass: A Scenic High Pass Above the Gokyo Valley

Renjo La is at an altitude of about 5360 meters and is the link between the Gokyo Valley and the Thame Valley in the Everest region. The path ascends from Gokyo to the topside of the high ridge and then descends to the less-travelled side of Thame.

Although it is the lowest of the three classic Everest passes, it still takes trekkers well above 5,000 meters and requires proper acclimatization.

The views are a big attraction for trekkers on Renjo La. Clear skies from the pass reveal Everest, Makalu, Cho Oyu, the Gokyo Valley and lakes and peaks nearby.

This is also a good option for trekkers who would like to do the Gokyo trek and continue on the Everest circuit without coming back on the same track.

Highlights of Renjo La Pass

• Connects Gokyo Valley and Thame Valley
• Views toward Everest, Makalu, and Cho Oyu
• Gokyo Lakes visible from the high route
• High-altitude crossing above 5,000 meters
• Less crowded than the main Everest Base Camp corridor
• Part of the Everest Three Passes circuit
• Excellent choice for trekkers who value mountain views
• Spring and autumn offer the most favorable conditions
• Current Everest route rules include guide and TIMS requirements for the listed Renjo La routes

Best for: Trekkers seeking scenic high-altitude views

8. Kang La Pass: The High Route Through Nar Phu Valley

Kang La Pass is about 5,320 meters and is a high pass that connects the isolated Nar Phu Valley with the Annapurna trekking route.

The trail passes through an area where traditional stone houses, dry mountain valleys and Tibetan culture can be found. Nar and Phu are considerably less noisy than the main Annapurna Circuit.

The pass is reached after trekking through increasingly high and rugged terrain, and snow can remain on the route outside the main trekking months. The crossing becomes particularly challenging because of the altitude and exposed sections, with little shelter on the pass itself.

The Nar Phu route is also a restricted trek, and the trek requires proper permit arrangements and the necessary trek documentation.

Highlights of Kang La Pass

• Entry into the remote Nar Phu trekking area
• Traditional Nar and Phu mountain villages
• Tibetan-influenced culture and architecture
• Views toward Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Himlung
• High-altitude crossing around 5,320 meters
• Quieter alternative to the main Annapurna Circuit
• Can be combined with the Annapurna Circuit
• Spring and autumn offer the best general conditions
• Nar Phu route requires the applicable restricted-area permit and trekking documentation

Best for: Experienced trekkers seeking remote cultural routes

9. Mesokanto La Pass: A Remote Crossing Near Tilicho Lake

Mesokanto La is a remote high pass in the Annapurna region, and published elevations vary depending on the exact route and reference used.

There are some sources that have the main Mesokanto La at around 5,245 meters and other trekking sources that have it over 5,300 meters. Therefore, it is best to consider it as a high pass, and not publish a disputed number.

This route is intimately linked to the Annapurna trail and is rather remote from the trail after leaving the established trail. The trekking route may involve the presence of loose rocks, moraines, snow, steep ground and camping areas without lodging.

Although Mesokanto La is a high point, it’s more difficult to prepare for and is recommended for trekkers with high-altitude experience, compared to Thorong La.

Highlights of Mesokanto La Pass

• Connects the high country around Tilicho with remote mountain routes
• Visit to Tilicho Lake
• Remote camping experience above the main Annapurna trail
• Moraine, snow, and rugged mountain terrain
• Fewer trekkers than Thorong La
• Views across the Annapurna high country
• Suitable for experienced high-altitude trekkers
• Spring and autumn are generally preferred
• Mesokanto/Tilicho Pass is included in Nepal Tourism Board’s current guide and TIMS list

Best for: Strong and experienced trekkers

10. Larkya La Pass: The High Point of the Manaslu Circuit

Generally, Larkya La is recorded at roughly 5,106m and is the highest spot of the Manaslu Circuit. Readings of published elevations are not entirely consistent; some Nepal Tourism Board sources put the height at 5,160 meters.

The pass lies between the high camps around Dharamsala and the descent toward Bimthang.

The crossing itself is long and tough, but generally not as technical as it is on passes like Amphu Lapcha. The trek continues above treeline into an expansive alpine landscape of rock, snow and high mountain slopes.

Many people like the Manaslu route because of the change of altitude from the lower river valleys and villages to the dry high country around the Manaslu Pass.

Highlights of Larkya La Pass

• Highest crossing of the Manaslu Circuit
• Links the Budhi Gandaki and Marsyangdi sides of the route
• Wide views of Manaslu and surrounding Himalayan peaks
• Long high-altitude crossing day
• Traditional villages and Tibetan-influenced culture along the circuit
• Less crowded than Nepal’s major trekking corridors
• Strong choice for an established high-pass circuit
• Spring and autumn generally offer the best conditions
• Manaslu is a restricted trekking area requiring the appropriate special permit and trekking documentation

Best for: Trekkers seeking a classic high-pass circuit

11. Lumba Sumba Pass: A Wilderness Crossing in Eastern Nepal

Lumba Sumba Pass reaches about 5,160 meters and lies on a remote traverse between the Kanchenjunga and Makalu regions of eastern Nepal.

This trail is far less busy than the popular Everest and Annapurna trails, featuring mostly wilderness areas and few permanent accommodations. Typically, trekkers have a fully equipped camping gear set and pass through the high section.

The attraction of Lumba Sumba is the journey between two major mountain regions rather than the pass alone. Lower sections pass through forests and local settlements, while the higher route enters a much colder and more open environment.

A good amount of snow can accumulate on the pass, especially during off-season months, so be sure to check the weather and conditions of the trail before crossing.

Highlights of Lumba Sumba Pass

• Links the Kanchenjunga and Makalu trekking regions
• Long wilderness sections with few visitors
• Remote camping experience
• Rhododendron forests on lower sections
• High mountain views from eastern Nepal
• Crossing of one of eastern Nepal’s remote high passes
• Excellent choice for experienced wilderness trekkers
• Spring and autumn are the main trekking windows
• Kanchenjunga-area guide and TIMS requirements apply, with the route also requiring its relevant conservation and restricted-area permits

Best for: Experienced trekkers seeking quiet mountain routes

12. Ganja La Pass: A Challenging Crossing in the Langtang Region

The Nepal Tourism Board has recorded Ganja La Pass at 5,122m, and it is a high pass between the upper Langtang Valley and the lower part of the region.

After Kyanjin Gompa, the trail is quieter as the route veers away from the Langtang Valley and into high mountain terrain.

This pass is more challenging than the Langtang trek in general as you can find no normal lodge facilities in some sections of the high pass, and it may be a snowy or icy pass.

Some itineraries use a camp near the pass, and the crossing can require careful handling of steep terrain and winter conditions. Spring and autumn are generally preferred, while heavy snow can make the pass difficult or impossible outside the main seasons.

Highlights of Ganja La Pass

• Connects the upper Langtang Valley with the Helambu side
• High-altitude crossing at about 5,122 meters
• Quiet trail beyond Kyanjin Gompa
• Views of Langtang Lirung and surrounding peaks
• Snow and ice sections can occur near the pass
• Camping may be required near the high crossing
• Good choice for experienced Langtang trekkers wanting a harder route
• Spring and autumn are generally the preferred seasons
• Ganja La is included in Nepal Tourism Board’s current guide and TIMS requirements

Best for: Experienced trekkers wanting an alternative Langtang route

13. Nyalu Lagna Pass: A Remote Crossing in Humla

Nyalu Lagna Pass reaches approximately 4,990 to 4,995 meters and forms part of the remote Limi Valley trekking route in Humla.

The pass links the high valleys of Limi to the Simikot side and leads into one of the least visited trekking regions of Nepal. The upper trail may be covered in snow, especially during the off-season.

Humla is a place very different from Everest and Annapurna. Typical camping facilities are found in the more remote areas, traditional villages, Buddhist monasteries and old mountain trails. Tibetan cultural aspects are the main highlights of the trip.

From the high route, trekkers can also see broad Himalayan views, including distant views toward Mount Kailash in clear conditions.

Highlights of Nyalu Lagna Pass

• Connects the Limi Valley and Simikot side of Humla
• Remote trekking far from Nepal’s major tourist routes
• Traditional Tibetan-influenced villages
• Historic monasteries and old mountain trails
• High-altitude camping experience
• Views toward western Himalayan peaks and, in clear weather, Mount Kailash
• Ideal for trekkers seeking a quiet and remote journey
• May to October is the main trekking window for the Limi Valley route
• Humla Limi Valley is covered by current guide and TIMS requirements, with restricted-area permit rules applying

Best for: Experienced trekkers seeking remote travel

14. Sele La Pass: The Mountain Crossing of the Kanchenjunga Circuit

Sele La Pass stands at about 4,290 meters and forms an important crossing in the Kanchenjunga Circuit. It links the Ghunsa Valley with the southern side of the circuit, allowing trekkers to continue the route without simply returning through the same valley.

Although it is lower than the major 5,000-meter passes, snow and cold weather can still make the crossing demanding.

The route is especially appealing to trekkers who want to see more of the remote Kanchenjunga region. The trail moves from forested areas toward higher ridges, with views of the Kanchenjunga massif and surrounding peaks.

The pass is generally used as part of a longer circuit rather than as a stand-alone destination, giving trekkers a fuller experience of eastern Nepal.

Highlights of Sele La Pass

• Connects the northern and southern sides of the Kanchenjunga Circuit
• Scenic route between Ghunsa and Cheram
• Views toward the Kanchenjunga massif
• Forest-to-alpine trekking experience
• Quieter trail than Everest and Annapurna
• Useful crossing for completing the Kanchenjunga circuit
• Strong choice for experienced trekkers seeking eastern Nepal
• Spring and autumn are generally preferred, with autumn offering clearer conditions
• Kanchenjunga routes through Sele La require a licensed guide and agency-issued TIMS under current Nepal Tourism Board rules

Best for: Trekkers seeking a quieter Himalayan circuit

15. Salpa Pass: A Lower-Altitude Crossing Through the Arun Valley

Salpa Pass is at approximately 3,350 meters in elevation and is an easier mountain crossing than those over higher passes like Kongma La and Cho La since the trail traverses lowland areas of forests, hills, and villages instead of treeless alpine regions.

The trail also allows trekkers to experience local Rai and Sherpa communities along the Arun Valley.

The trail leads trekkers through rhododendron and other kinds of forests as they approach Salpa Pass and its neighbouring Salpa Pokhari. Travellers are provided with scenic views of the peaks of the Makalu range and other mountains of eastern Nepal from its higher section.

Due to the fact that the pass is far less elevated than the popular 5,000-meters crossings across Nepal, it gives trekkers the opportunity to traverse a high pass without spending too much time at the altitude.

Highlights of Salpa Pass

• Crosses the Arun Valley at about 3,350 meters
• Visit to sacred Salpa Pokhari
• Rhododendron and forest trails
• Rai and Sherpa village experiences
• Views toward Makalu and eastern Himalayan peaks
• Historic route linking eastern Nepal with the Khumbu side
• Lower altitude than Nepal’s major high passes
• Spring and autumn generally offer the best trekking conditions
• Permit requirements depend on the exact Arun Valley and protected-area route chosen, so current local and protected-area rules should be checked before departure

Best for: Trekkers seeking a quieter, lower-altitude pass

Mountain Passes in Nepal by Region

Nepal’s passes are spread across several trekking regions, and choosing by region can make it easier to select a suitable route.

Everest Region

The Everest region has the country’s best-known group of high trekking passes:

• Kongma La
• Cho La
• Renjo La
• Amphu Lapcha

Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La form the famous Everest Three Passes circuit. Amphu Lapcha takes the experience into more technical terrain.

Annapurna Region

The Annapurna area contains several different types of mountain crossings:

• Thorong La
• Kang La
• Mesokanto La

Thorong La is the most established. Kang La and Mesokanto La take trekkers farther from the main trekking network.

Manaslu Region

Larkya La is the major high crossing on the Manaslu Circuit.

The route offers a gradual change from lower river valleys and villages to the dry, high mountain country around the pass.

Langtang Region

Ganja La provides a demanding alternative to the standard Langtang Valley trekking route.

Kanchenjunga Region

Sele La and Lumba Sumba are among the notable crossings in eastern Nepal. The region is less developed for mass tourism than Everest and Annapurna.

Western Nepal

Nyalu Lagna gives trekkers access to the remote Humla and Limi Valley area.

Mustang and Restricted Areas

Teri La belongs to the more remote category of high-altitude crossings and requires careful planning because of both terrain and permit requirements.

Most Difficult Mountain Passes in Nepal

The hardest mountain passes in Nepal are not necessarily the ones with the highest elevation. Technical terrain, snow, glacier travel, route finding, exposure, weather, and access to emergency support can matter just as much.

Technical and Very Demanding Passes

• Amphu Lapcha: High elevation combined with technical snow, ice, and exposed terrain.
• Tashi Lapcha: A glaciated crossing connecting Rolwaling and Everest that can require rope, crampons, and prior mountain experience.
• Teri La: Very remote, high, and physically demanding, with long days and limited support.
• Mesokanto La: Remote terrain and camping make it considerably more demanding than established Annapurna routes.

Difficult High-Altitude Trekking Passes

• Kongma La: Highest of the three Everest passes and physically demanding.
• Cho La: Snow and glacier conditions can make the crossing harder.
• Kang La: Long, steep, and remote, with fewer facilities than the main Annapurna Circuit.
• Larkya La: A long high-altitude pass day with changing weather and snow conditions.
• Ganja La: Remote camping and snow make the upper Langtang route demanding.

How to Choose the Right Mountain Pass in Nepal

The best mountain pass depends on your experience, preferred region, available time, and comfort with remote terrain.

For a first major high-pass trek

Thorong La is a strong option for trekkers who want a famous high crossing with a developed trekking network.

For Everest views

Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La provide three very different views and experiences within the Everest region.

For a full high-pass challenge

Everest Three Passes Trek combines Kongma La, Cho La, and Renjo La into one demanding circuit.

For a remote cultural journey

Kang La and the Nar Phu route provide a quieter experience with traditional mountain villages.

For technical adventure

Amphu Lapcha and Tashi Lapcha are better suited to trekkers with previous high-altitude and mountain experience.

For a quieter Himalayan region

Kanchenjunga, Lumba Sumba, and Humla offer fewer visitors and a stronger feeling of wilderness.

Final Words

Mountain passes in Nepal offer amazing trekking experiences, but each one is different. Thorong La, Larkya La, and the three Everest passes are popular choices, while passes like Kang La, Teri La, and Nyalu Lagna offer quieter and more remote trails.

Harder passes such as Amphu Lapcha and Tashi Lapcha need good trekking experience and preparation.

Choose a pass based on your experience, time, fitness, and comfort with high altitude. Always check the latest permits, weather, and trail conditions before your trek.

FAQs