Tourist activity thriving at Thorong La Pass despite freezing cold

By Harikrishna Sharma,Mustang, Dec. 5: Amid the freezing cold and snow-covered trekking paths, Thorong La Pass, situated at an altitude of 5,416 metres above sea level, continues to attract foreign tourists. 

Located along the Annapurna Circuit, one of Nepal’s most popular trekking routes, Thorong La remains bustling with visitors even in the harsh winter season.

According to data from the District Police Office in Myagdi, 201 tourists entered Mustang via Thorong La Pass on November 17, with 98 entering by December 4.

Police Inspector Santosh Basyal informed that, despite a decrease in the flow of tourists, there is still a regular stream of visitors during the winter months. 

“Although the number of tourists coming through Thorong La has decreased, the flow of visitors continues consistently,” said Basyal.

Thorong La Pass is the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit, and it has always been a popular trekking destination. The route starts from Besishahar in Lamjung and due to the development of road networks, the journey that once took 21 days can now be completed in a week.

The trek to Thorong La typically starts from Manang district, passing through Yak Kharkha, Ledar, Thorong Phedi and Thorong High Camp. 

After crossing Thorong La, trekkers descend to the Baragung Muktichhetra Rural Municipality in Mustang.

The trek through Thorong La Pass to Muktinath is considered one of the most adventurous, especially the route that passes through Tilicho Lake.

Krishna Acharya, President of the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) in Pokhara, emphasised that the opening of new roads has shortened the traditional trekking route, making it more accessible. 

However, he also mentioned, “To extend the Thorong La trek, it’s essential to limit the expansion of roads and protect the traditional trekking routes.”

Tourism entrepreneurs have called for further development of facilities for tourists in the area, as foreign trekkers are drawn to the allure of a more immersive, challenging experience. 

The popularity of trekking routes such as the Round Dhaulagiri and Saribung Pass, near the Tibetan border, is also famous. However, winter conditions, with snow accumulation of up to five feet, make trekking through these areas challenging, while Thorong La remains manageable for those willing to brave the cold.

Rajul Lalchan, President of the Mustang Industry and Commerce Association, informed that Thorong La Pass remains the busiest of the trekking routes connecting Mustang, attracting a high number of trekkers.

“It is important to preserve the trekking routes, as tourists want to spend extended periods on the trails in Mustang,” Lalchan said.

Opened to trekkers in 1970, Thorong La Pass continues to be a popular destination for both foreign and Nepali tourists. Nepali trekkers mostly visit during the months of mid-April, May, June, July, August, September and October, while foreign tourists can be seen throughout the year, even during the off-season.

Annually, more than 13,000 tourists cross Thorong La Pass, connecting Manang and Mustang.  Despite the biting cold in Mustang, on December 4, 2,504 travelers entered the region by 339 vehicles, while five flew in by air. 

The iconic Muktinath Temple, a major attraction in Mustang, saw 2,500 visitors that day alone.