Most Visited High Pass Adventures in Nepal Trek

September 22, 2025, Post by: Adventure Highpass

Nepal is a land of mountains, and hidden among its towering peaks lie some of the world’s most thrilling high passes. For trekkers seeking real adventure, these passes are the ultimate challenge - steep climbs, dramatic landscapes, and unmatched views of the Himalayas. Many travelers search for a High Pass Adventure in Nepal or even stumble upon companies like Highpass Adventure, but what they’re really after is the unforgettable experience of crossing these legendary trails.

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the most visited high pass adventures in Nepal, split by region. From the mighty Everest trails to the wild Manaslu and Annapurna routes as well as traditional camping trails, each high pass carries its own story, challenge, and breathtaking scenery.

What Makes High Pass Adventures Special?

High passes in Nepal aren’t just about altitude - they’re about discovery. Crossing a high pass means stepping into remote valleys, connecting different trails, and earning spectacular views that few get to see. These treks push your endurance, test your determination, and reward you with landscapes that feel almost otherworldly.

Whether it’s the turquoise lakes of Gokyo beneath Renjo La, the sweeping glaciers near Cho La, or the spiritual depth of crossing Thorong La on the Annapurna Circuit, each high pass is more than a trail - it’s an adventure written in stone and snow.

Most Popular High Passes in Nepal by Region

Everest Region High Pass Adventure

The Everest Region is home to some of Nepal’s most iconic high passes. Collectively known as the Everest Three Passes, these trails connect valleys, villages, and viewpoints that showcase Everest, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and Makalu.

Renjo La Pass: 5,360 m / 17,585 ft
Renjo La is often considered the most scenic pass in the Everest region. From the top, trekkers are rewarded with panoramic views of Everest (8,848 m / 29,029 ft), Lhotse (8,516 m / 27,940 ft), Makalu (8,485 m / 27,838 ft), and Cho Oyu (8,188 m / 26,864 ft). Below lies the shimmering chain of Gokyo Lakes, a sight that makes this one of the most photographed high passes in Nepal. Renjo La is less crowded than its famous sibling, Cho La, which gives it a wilder and more peaceful feel—perfect for trekkers who want their high pass adventure with a touch of solitude. Renjola connects the Gokyo valley to Thame - climber's village.
Cho La Pass: 5,420 m / 17,782 ft
Cho La connects the Everest Base Camp trail with the Gokyo Valley. The climb is steep, icy, and often requires crampons in spring or autumn. But reaching the pass is worth every step. On one side lies the Khumbu Glacier; on the other, the turquoise waters of Gokyo. Cho La is often the highlight of the Everest Three Passes Trek, making it a bucket-list highpass adventure for those who want both challenge and reward.
Kongma La Pass: 5,535 m / 18,159 ft
The highest of the Everest Three Passes, Kongma La is also the toughest. The ascent is long and often covered in snow, but the views of Nuptse, Makalu, and the Khumbu Glacier are unforgettable. Crossing Kongma La requires good fitness, proper acclimatization, and a real spirit of adventure. Together, Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La form the ultimate high pass adventure in Nepal—a circuit that goes beyond Everest Base Camp and immerses trekkers in the raw power of the Khumbu Himalayas.
Tashi Lapcha Pass: 5,755 m / 18,881 ft
The Tashi Lapcha Pass is a legendary crossing that connects the isolated Rolwaling Valley with the bustling trails of the Everest Region. At 5,755 meters, it’s not just a high pass—it’s an expedition in itself. The approach involves glaciers, steep rock sections, and often fixed ropes, so it requires mountaineering equipment and experienced guides. On the Rolwaling side, trekkers pass through culturally rich villages like Beding and Na, while the Khumbu side opens toward Namche and the Everest heartland. The views from the pass sweep across Gauri Shankar (7,134 m / 23,406 ft), Melungtse (7,181 m / 23,560 ft), and the snowbound ridges of the Khumbu Himal. Remote, technical, and dramatic, Tashi Lapcha is a true highpass adventure for trekkers who want to link two of Nepal’s most iconic regions on one unforgettable trail.

Annapurna Region High Pass Adventure

Thorong La Pass: 5,416 m / 17,769 ft
The Annapurna Circuit is world-famous, and its crowning jewel is Thorong La Pass. At over 5,400 meters, Thorong La connects Manang with Muktinath in Mustang. The climb is tough, especially in the thin air, but the sense of accomplishment at the summit is unmatched. The view stretches across Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and the Mustang desert, giving trekkers one of the most diverse landscapes in Nepal. It’s no surprise that Thorong La is considered one of the most crossed high passes in the world. For many trekkers, this single crossing defines their High Pass Adventure in Nepal.

Manaslu Region High Pass Adventure

Larkya La Pass: 5,160 m / 16,929 ft
The Manaslu Circuit is known for its wild landscapes and fewer crowds compared to Annapurna and Everest. The trail culminates at Larkya La, where trekkers are treated to sweeping views of Manaslu (8,163 m / 26,781 ft), Himal Chuli, and Cheo Himal. Crossing Larkya La is demanding - the climb is long, the weather unpredictable, and the descent steep. But it’s also incredibly rewarding. The pass feels remote, untouched, and purely Himalayan. If you’re seeking a highpass adventure that’s still authentic and less commercial, Larkya La should be on your list.

Dhaulagiri Region High Passes

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most demanding and remote journeys, circling the world’s seventh-highest peak, Dhaulagiri I (8,167 m / 26,795 ft). This trail is far less commercial than Annapurna or Everest, offering raw wilderness, glacier crossings, and a true sense of expedition. The route leads through alpine meadows, icefalls, and the legendary Hidden Valley, with two major high passes - French Pass and Dhampus Pass - marking its most challenging highlights. Together, these crossings define the Dhaulagiri high pass adventure, rewarding trekkers with unmatched Himalayan solitude and jaw-dropping panoramas.

French Pass: 5,360 m / 17,585 ft
The French Pass is the highest point of the Dhaulagiri Circuit and a legendary crossing in western Nepal. Surrounded by towering peaks - Dhaulagiri I (8,167 m / 26,795 ft), Tukuche Peak, and the glacier-draped ridges of the Dhaulagiri range - the pass delivers one of the most dramatic Himalayan panoramas. The trail climbs from Italian Base Camp and Dhaulagiri Base Camp, cutting across glaciers and steep moraines before opening into the expansive “Hidden Valley.” Remote, wild, and physically demanding, French Pass is a true high pass adventure reserved for trekkers who want to experience one of Nepal’s toughest classic circuits.
Dhampus Pass: 5,240 m / 17,192 ft
Beyond the Hidden Valley lies the Dhampus Pass, the second major crossing on the Dhaulagiri Circuit. Though slightly lower than French Pass, Dhampus is equally challenging due to strong winds, snow conditions, and its long, steep approach. From the summit, trekkers are rewarded with sweeping views of the Annapurna range, Nilgiri, and the desolate but beautiful Mustang landscapes. Crossing Dhampus Pass marks the final hurdle of the circuit before descending toward Jomsom. For many, it is the moment that completes their Dhaulagiri highpass adventure, combining raw wilderness with the triumph of overcoming two of Nepal’s most formidable mountain passes.

Other Notable High Pass Adventures

Ganja La Pass: 5,106 m / 16,752 ft
Located in the Langtang Region, Ganja La is less famous but equally beautiful. It links Langtang Valley with Helambu and involves steep climbs, glaciers, and wild terrain. Trekkers who attempt this pass are rewarded with solitude and sweeping Himalayan views.
Selele Passes: 4,290 m / 14,074 ft – 4,480 m / 14,698 ft
In the remote Kanchenjunga Region lies the wild and challenging Selele Pass trail, a combination of three passes in a single day - Sinion La, Mirgin La, and Selele La - that together create one of the most adventurous crossings in eastern Nepal. This highpass adventure links Ghunsa to Tseram, bridging the north and south base camp routes of Mount Kanchenjunga. The trail climbs through rhododendron forests, icy ridges, and windswept alpine meadows before opening to sweeping views of Kanchenjunga (8,586 m / 28,169 ft), Makalu, and Jannu Himal. Because of its remoteness, weather unpredictability, and demanding ascents, the Selele Passes are best suited for trekkers seeking a rugged, less-traveled highpass trail that truly captures the spirit of Himalayan exploration.

Preparing for High Pass Adventures in Nepal

Best Seasons

The prime time for high pass trekking is autumn (September–November) and spring (March–May). Clear skies, stable weather, and manageable snow conditions make these seasons ideal.

Gear and Fitness

Good boots with ankle support
Layers for cold mornings and warm afternoons
Crampons and trekking poles for icy sections
Strong physical fitness and prior trekking experience

Safety Considerations

High passes are demanding and carry risks like altitude sickness, sudden weather changes, and icy trails. Proper acclimatization, traveling with a guide, and having flexible itineraries are essential for a safe High Pass Adventure.

Why Choose Adventure Highpass Trek & Expedition

There are many companies offering treks in Nepal, but Adventure Highpass Trek & Expedition is built on local expertise, decades of guiding experience, and a deep passion for the Himalayas. Our guides know every trail, every shortcut, and every safety precaution needed for these adventures.

We specialize in creating personalized journeys, whether you’re dreaming of Everest’s Renjo La, the Annapurna’s Thorong La, or the wild remoteness of Larkya La. When you book with us, you’re not just signing up for a trek—you’re embracing a complete high pass adventure in Nepal.

Conclusion

From the iconic Everest Three Passes to the remote trails of Manaslu and Rolwaling, Nepal’s high passes are more than mountain crossings - they’re journeys of endurance, beauty, and discovery. Whether it’s Renjo La, Cho La, Thorong La, or Larkya La, each pass tells its own story and leaves trekkers with memories for a lifetime.

If you’re ready to experience the best of Nepal’s High Pass Adventures, let Adventure Highpass Trek & Expedition be your trusted partner on the trail.