A pass above 5,000 m has a short season. For Mesokanto La, the safest windows follow those of Tilicho Lake.
Autumn: October to mid-November
The most stable period. Snow on the pass is usually light, skies are clear, and nights are cold. Late November can bring early storms.
Spring: mid-April to May
The pass can be snowy in early April. By May conditions improve, but afternoon cloud grows. Check with local guides about snow.
Monsoon and winter
Not recommended. Monsoon cloud and landslides affect the approaches; winter brings deep snow and extreme cold.
Time of day
Start before dawn. Winds and cloud build later, and a long descent needs daylight.
Checking conditions
Ask your guide to speak to people who recently crossed or to lodge owners in Jomsom and Manang. Recent information beats any forecast.
Why shoulder months are riskier
Early spring and late autumn can bring snow, ice and short days, which make a long crossing harder. In late November, daylight is limited and nights are bitterly cold. In early April, fresh snow can bury the trail. If you want the pass, aim for the stable weeks of mid-October to early November or late April to mid-May, and keep a spare day.
Reading the forecast
Mountain forecasts are imperfect, but they are useful. Look for several days of settled weather rather than a single clear day. Ask your guide to check with lodge owners and recent parties. If you see lenticular clouds, a sudden temperature change or rising wind, treat it as a warning and be ready to wait.
Month-by-month for the crossing
- March: deep snow likely; not advised.
- April: snow reducing late in the month; check recent reports.
- May: a workable window, with afternoon cloud and haze.
- June to September: monsoon cloud and landslide risk on the approaches.
- October: the most settled month for high passes.
- November: clear but cold; early storms and short days.
- December to February: winter conditions, not advised.
Common questions
When can I cross Mesokanto La?
Mainly October to mid-November and mid-April to May.
Is it open in winter?
Technically sometimes, but it is not recommended for standard trekkers.
How early should I start?
Before dawn, so you finish the long descent in daylight.
