All you need to know about the Thorong La pass summit day | Step-by-step guide to crossing Thorong La Pass on the summit day

The journey of waking up early in the morning to summit Thorong La Pass and then descending to Muktinath is an exhilarating experience for trekkers in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Here's a step-by-step overview of the entire process:

Preparation and Acclimatization:

Before attempting the Thorong La Pass, trekkers spend several days acclimatizing to the high altitude. This is crucial to minimize the risk of altitude sickness and ensure the body is ready for the challenging climb ahead. During this time, trekkers gradually ascend to higher altitudes, taking rest days in between to allow their bodies to adjust.

Base Camp to High Camp (Day before Summit):

On the day before the summit, trekkers typically make their way from the Thorong Phedi Base Camp to the High Camp. The journey to the High Camp is physically demanding, involving steep ascents and rough terrain. Trekkers are advised to take it slow and steady, staying hydrated and fueling up with nourishing meals.

Let's dive deeper into the early morning wake-up, the ascent to Thorong La Pass, and the descent to Muktinath during the trek or the summit day.

1. Early Morning Wake-Up:

On the day of the summit, trekkers wake up very early, usually around 4 or 5 AM. The reason for the early start is to avoid the strong winds and potential bad weather that often develop later in the day. Mornings are generally calmer and offer better visibility for safe trekking. Trekkers prepare their daypacks with essential items, have a hearty breakfast, and set out with headlamps illuminating the dark trail.

2. Ascent to Thorong La Pass:

The journey from the High Camp to Thorong La Pass is both physically and mentally demanding. As trekkers ascend, the air becomes thinner, and oxygen levels decrease, making breathing difficult. This is where proper acclimatization becomes crucial, as it helps the body adjust to the high altitude and reduces the risk of altitude sickness.

The trail consists of steep switchbacks, loose scree, and rocky terrain. Trekkers take slow and deliberate steps to conserve energy and avoid exertion. The temperature drops significantly as they gain altitude, so wearing appropriate layers to stay warm is essential. The landscapes change dramatically, from green valleys to barren mountains surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

3. Summiting Thorong La Pass:

Reaching the summit of Thorong La Pass is a moment of triumph for trekkers. The prayer flags fluttering in the wind welcome them to the top, and the breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges unfold before their eyes. The feeling of standing at an altitude of 5,416 meters (17,769 feet) is surreal and rewarding, making all the challenges of the trek worthwhile.

Trekkers often take a moment to reflect on their journey, celebrate their achievement with fellow trekkers, and capture photos to immortalize the memory of this extraordinary feat.

4. Descent to Muktinath:

While the summit is a significant milestone, the journey is not over yet. The descent from Thorong La Pass to Muktinath presents its own set of challenges. The trail on the other side of the pass is steep and often covered with snow or ice, depending on the time of year. Trekkers need to be cautious and use trekking poles for stability during the descent.

As they descend, the landscape undergoes a dramatic change. They leave behind the barren, mountainous terrain and enter a more arid region with rolling hills and colorful rock formations. Along the way, they may encounter local shepherds with their yak herds, adding to the authenticity of the experience.

5. Arrival in Muktinath:

After several hours of descent, trekkers finally arrive in Muktinath, a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists. Muktinath is home to a famous temple and is considered a place of salvation and spiritual cleansing. Many trekkers take the opportunity to explore the temple and its surroundings, absorbing the religious and cultural significance of the area.

In Muktinath, trekkers can rest, replenish their energy with a warm meal, and enjoy the hospitality of the local tea houses or lodges. The feeling of accomplishment, coupled with the serenity of the holy site, makes the entire journey a truly memorable and enriching experience.