Thorong Peak Climbing
Overview
Thorong Peak Climbing is perfect for those who are reasonably fit and eager to explore the breathtaking mountain scenery of Nepal's Annapurna region. Standing at 6,144 meters, this climb offers not only a thrilling adventure but also a chance to experience the rich culture of the Gurung people. In this remote region, the Gurungs, who follow Buddhism, live in isolated villages with distinctive architecture and strong spiritual traditions. The trail winds through stunning rhododendron forests, where red, white, and pink blossoms beautifully contrast with the greenery. The rhododendron, Nepal's national flower, adds to the splendor of the journey. Thorong Peak lies south of the famous Thorong La Pass at 5,146 meters.
Your trek begins at Bhulbhule (840 meters) and gradually ascends through various villages, leading you to Thorong La Pass and ultimately Thorong Peak. Along the way, you’ll visit the sacred Vishnu Muktinath Temple, revered by both Buddhists and Hindus. Situated in the Muktinath Valley at the base of Thorong La Pass in Mustang, this high-altitude temple is renowned for its 108 bull-shaped water spouts. The trek follows the Kali Gandaki River Valley, passing through key stops like Jomsom (2,743 meters), Marpha (1,630 meters), Tukuche, and Tatopani (meaning 'hot water' in Nepali), before concluding in the vibrant city of Pokhara.
This region is also known for being the home of the legendary Gurkha soldiers, famed worldwide for their courage and resilience in battle. The rugged mountain landscape they call home gives you a glimpse into why they are held in such high regard. Throughout the trek, you'll encounter terraced farmlands, unique wildlife, and fascinating flora, including yaks, mountain goats, and diverse bird species.
With sweeping valleys, charming traditional Buddhist and Hindu villages, and rich, age-old cultures set against the backdrop of towering peaks, this adventure will captivate even the most discerning traveler.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day1 Arrival in Kathmandu
Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, relax and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Kathmandu
Day2 Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat
Depart early to avoid traffic, traveling through scenic landscapes alongside rivers like Trishuli and Marsyangdi. The drive takes you to the charming village of Jagat, the starting point for the trek.
Day3 Trek from Jagat to Dharapani
Begin trekking through small villages and terraced fields, crossing suspension bridges and waterfalls along the way. Pass villages like Chyamche, Tal, and Karte before arriving at Dharapani.
Day4 Trek from Dharapani to Chame
Today’s trek brings the first glimpses of Annapurna II. Walk through forests and rocky landscapes along the Marsyangdi River. The trail offers Tibetan cultural elements as you reach the bustling village of Chame.
Day5 Trek from Chame to Lower Pisang
Hike through dense pine forests and along narrow trails. Cross suspension bridges and pass by apple orchards and traditional stone houses. Enjoy views of Pisang Peak (6,091m) and the surrounding Himalayas.
Day6 Trek from Lower Pisang to Manang
Ascend through arid landscapes, leaving behind lush greenery. Witness yak pastures, swaying barley fields, and Buddhist prayer wheels as you approach the vibrant village of Manang.
Day7 Acclimatization Day in Manang
Spend the day exploring Manang and its surroundings. Visit local monasteries, take short hikes, and enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna III, Gangapurna, Chulu East, and Chulu West. This day is vital for acclimatization.
Day8 Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka
The trail gradually ascends, offering stunning views of the rugged terrain and Himalayan peaks. Pass through Ghunsang and cross the Ghyangchang River before reaching Yak Kharka, a grazing area for yaks.
Day9 Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
Follow the trail along the Kone River and cross suspension bridges to Thorong Phedi, a popular base for trekkers attempting the Thorong La Pass.
Day10 Trek from Thorong Phedi to Thorong La
Begin the ascent early to avoid strong winds. Thorong La is one of the highest and largest passes in the world, offering spectacular views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
Day11 Rest and Preparation Day for the Summit
Spend the day preparing for the climb. Practice using climbing gear under expert guidance and explore the area while acclimatizing further.
Day12 Summit Tukuche Peak (6,144m) and Descend to Muktinath
Start the climb early, tackling steep sections to reach the summit. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges before descending to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site.
Day13 Spare Day for Weather or AMS Contingency
This extra day is reserved for unforeseen delays or acclimatization issues during the summit attempt.
Day14 Trek from Muktinath to Kagbeni
Visit the Muktinath Temple, known for its sacred 108 water spouts, before descending through windy trails to Kagbeni, a charming village by the Kali Gandaki River.
Day15 Trek from Kagbeni to Jomsom
Follow the river trail through Lubra Village, enjoying the unique desert-like landscape of Mustang. Cross suspension bridges and apple orchards before reaching Jomsom.
Day16 Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara
Take an early morning flight over the Kali Gandaki Valley. In Pokhara, enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Phewa Lake or explore lakeside restaurants.
Day17 Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Return to Kathmandu with scenic views of the Himalayas. Spend the rest of the day shopping or exploring the city at your leisure.
What’s included
Cost includes
- Airport pick up and drops by private vehicle.
- Two-night standard twin sharing Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
- Three meals a day (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during the trek.
- Fresh fruits every night after dinner.
- Trekking lodge (Tea House) accommodations during the trek.
- All necessary paper works ACAP entry permit & Trekker`s information Management System (TIMS) permit.
- Peak climbing permit and other necessary fees.
- Two nights twin sharing tent accommodation after Thorong Phedi. Hygienic meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) with tea and coffee, seasonal fruit or cane fruits.
- Camping tent and climbing rope provided.
- Transportation by Bus to Besisahar and tourist bus back to Kathmandu from Pokhara.
- Flight from Jomsom to Pokhara.
- Besisahar to Syange Transportation by Sharing Jeep
- A highly experienced, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, English speaking well trained, Government license holder trekking guide and climbing Sherpa, with all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transport, and insurance.
- Strong, helpful porters with proper equipment (1 porter for two people). With all his salary, food, drinks, accommodation and insurance.
- Comprehensive medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
- Arrangement of Emergency Helicopter service (paid by your Travel insurance company).
- Use of sleeping bags, Down Jacket, Duffel bag and Walking Poles (to be returned after the trip).
- Government taxes and official expenses.
- One night Pokhara hotel with breakfast.
- Oximeter to check your pulse and oxygen saturation and heart rate twice daily (Very useful to check Altitude Mountain Sickness(AMS) symptoms) Which will ensure you trek is in the safest hands possible for all levels of trekker.
Cost excludes
- Meals whilst you are in Kathmandu & Pokhara - lunch, and dinner.
- Nepal entry visa fee (easy to obtain the visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport – Kathmandu). $30 USD for 15-day, $50 USD for 30 Days, and $125 USD for 90 Days visa.
- Personal travel and medical insurance.
- International airfare.
- Your personal expenses.
- All the alcoholic and nonalcoholic, soup, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa, mineral water, extra food, cold and hot drinks on trek ( i.e. those you choose to purchase along the way and during evenings in the tea houses)
- All desserts & sweet things like chocolate, cake, pie, pudding.
- Hot shower and battery charging at the tea houses.
- Tips for the guide, porter, and driver (tipping is expected)
- Excess baggage of more than 10 kg for Jomsom flight.
- NOTE: If you return earlier from the trek due to sickness or any problem, the money you paid for the flight, hotel, mountain room, food, etc. is nonrefundable, and you will need to bear the expenses for the hotel, food, etc. in Kathmandu yourself.