Thorong Phedi is a cluster of lodges at the foot of Thorong La, at about 4,450 m, on the Annapurna Circuit. Phedi means foot of a hill, and the name suits the place. Trekkers coming from Manang and Yak Kharka stop here, sleep, and start before dawn for the pass.
Altitude: about 4,450 m. Heights quoted for villages and camps vary by source, so treat this as a guide.
Where Thorong Phedi is and why trekkers stop
Thorong Phedi lies below the final steep climb to the pass, so it is the natural last stop for those who want the shortest pass day. Our route pages connect it to Manang, Yak Kharka, Chame, Upper Pisang, Muktinath, Jomsom and Marpha. A typical plan is two to three days with a night at Yak Kharka and one at Thorong Phedi or High Camp. Some people continue up to High Camp to shorten the morning, though that adds more sleeping height.
What to expect at Thorong Phedi
Expect a cluster of lodges rather than a village, set in a bare valley with steep walls around. It is a place for resting, eating and sorting kit, and the mood in the evening is quiet and focused as everyone prepares for the early start. Food is hearty and simple, and the dining room is the warmest place. Watch the weather with your guide, since snow or wind can change plans for the pass. Pack your bag the evening before so the morning goes smoothly.
Altitude and how you may feel
This is the highest sleeping point for many Circuit trekkers, and the air is thin. Headache, nausea, restless sleep and shortness of breath are common, and some of them are normal while others are not. Move slowly and drink well. Altitude illness can strike anyone, however fit. If symptoms are getting worse, descend rather than attempt the pass, and let your guide decide quickly. Never start the pass climb in the dark if you feel seriously unwell; going back down to Yak Kharka is the safe option.
Lodging, food and practical tips
Lodging is basic, with small rooms, thin walls and shared toilets, and nights are very cold. Bring a warm sleeping bag, a headlamp with spare batteries, insulated gloves and a hat. Menus are short, and prices are higher because everything is carried up. Carry cash. Pass day is rated hard and usually takes roughly five to nine hours, varying with pace and trail conditions. Eat breakfast even if you have little appetite, and carry snacks and water in an easy to reach pocket.
Stage guides that pass through Thorong Phedi
These day-by-day guides start or end at Thorong Phedi, with walking times, ascent and where to sleep.
- Manang to Thorong Phedi trek: stages, altitude and time
- Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi trek: altitude, time and route
- Thorong Phedi to Thorong La Pass trek: altitude, time and route
- Thorong Phedi to Muktinath trek: stages, altitude and time
- Thorong Phedi to Jomsom trek: stages, altitude and time
- Chame to Thorong Phedi trek: stages, altitude and time
- Upper Pisang to Thorong Phedi trek: stages, altitude and time
- Thorong Phedi to Marpha trek: stages, altitude and time
Common questions
What does Phedi mean?
Phedi means the foot of a hill, and here it refers to the foot of the Thorong La climb. The name fits the place, which is a cluster of lodges below the steepest part of the route.
Should I sleep at Thorong Phedi or High Camp?
Thorong Phedi is lower, so it is usually kinder for acclimatisation. High Camp shortens the next morning but means sleeping higher. Many guides prefer Phedi unless the group is well adjusted.
What time do people leave for the pass?
Trekkers usually start well before dawn to cross the pass in good weather and avoid afternoon wind. Your guide will set the exact time, which depends on the conditions, group pace and the day's forecast.
