Yak Kharka to Thorong La Pass on the Annapurna Circuit covers 2 stages, via Thorong Phedi. It goes from about 4,018 m to 5,416 m, a net gain of roughly 1,400 m. Total walking time is about 5.5 to 7.5 hours.
Quick facts
- Start: Yak Kharka, about 4,018 m
- End: Thorong La Pass, 5,416 m
- Change: a net gain of roughly 1,400 m
- Stages: 2
- Total time: about 5.5 to 7.5 hours of walking
- Hardest stage: hard
Stage by stage
- Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi: 1.5 to 2.5 hours (moderate to hard)
- Thorong Phedi to Thorong La Pass: 4 to 5 hours up (hard)
How to split it
A fit walker could cover it in one long day, but most trekkers split it across stages. The route passes through Thorong Phedi. Lodge availability changes by season, so confirm night stops with your operator.
Altitude and health
This route reaches about 5,416 m. Altitude sickness is possible above 3,000 m, so walk slowly, drink water and tell your guide about headaches, nausea or poor sleep. Altitudes vary by a few tens of metres between maps and guidebooks.
Reverse direction
Walking Thorong La Pass to Yak Kharka is the same route in reverse. It is mostly downhill and usually quicker, but a long descent is hard on the knees, so poles help.
Common questions
- How long is Yak Kharka to Thorong La Pass? Total walking time is about 5.5 to 7.5 hours, depending on pace and stops.
- Which places are on the way from Yak Kharka to Thorong La Pass? The route passes Thorong Phedi.
Plan it
Back to all route information or see the Annapurna Circuit guides.
