Ama Lapcha Pass Trek - 16 Days

Duration 16 Days
Trip Grade Challenging
Max Height 5800m.
Start From Lukla
Ends at Lukla
Group Size 1-15
Transportation Flight
Trip Meals Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation Lodge and Tent
Best Season Spring (March-May) and Autumn (Spetember-November)

Ama Lapcha Pass Trek : Hinku Valley & Amphu Laptsa Pass

The Ama Lapcha Pass Trek (also known as the Amphu Laptsa Pass Trek) is one of Nepal’s most extraordinary high-altitude wilderness adventures. Over 19 days, this route traverses two of the most spectacular and remote valleys in the Khumbu region, the Hinku and the Khumbu, connected by the dramatic Ama Lapcha Pass at 5,800m, one of the highest and most technically demanding trekking passes in Nepal.

The Amphu Laptsa (also spelled Ama Lapcha, Amphu Labtsa, or Amphu Laptsa) is not a standard trekking pass. At 5,800m, it sits among permanent snow and glaciated terrain that requires basic crampon and fixed rope technique on the crossing day. This is precisely what separates it from every other pass trek in Nepal — the Ama Lapcha crossing is a genuine high-mountain challenge that delivers a sense of achievement proportional to the effort and skill required.

The route begins in the Hinku Valley — one of Nepal’s most remote and least-visited Himalayan valleys, accessible only via the Zatrawala Pass (4,610m) from Lukla or by a multi-day walk from the south. The Hinku is wild, silent, and magnificent — a valley of glaciated peaks, remote lakes, yak pastures, and almost no other trekkers. Above the valley, the route climbs through Khare to Mera La Pass (5,350m) before crossing into a glaciated plateau that leads eventually to the Ama Lapcha high camp and the crossing itself.

On the other side of the Ama Lapcha Pass lies Chhukung in the Khumbu — the heart of the Everest region — from where the return to Lukla follows the classic trail through Pangboche and Khumjung. The contrast between the remote wilderness of the Hinku and the relatively developed infrastructure of the Khumbu is dramatic and memorable — two completely different Himalayan worlds connected by a single extraordinary pass.

This trek is recommended for experienced trekkers with prior high-altitude experience above 5,000m and a basic understanding of glacier travel. Alliance Treks provides all necessary technical support, equipment, and experienced guides for the pass crossing.

Trip Highlights for Ama Lapcha Pass

Cross the legendary Ama Lapcha Pass (Amphu Laptsa, 5,800m) — one of the most dramatic and technically demanding high mountain passes in the entire Khumbu and Hinku region, connecting two of Nepal's most spectacular Himalayan valleys
Trek the remote and pristine Hinku Valley — one of the most beautiful and least-visited valleys in the Khumbu region, flanked by Mera Peak, Kusum Kangguru, and the remote peaks of the Hinku Himal
Cross Mera La Pass (5,350m) — a high glaciated pass with panoramic views of five 8,000m peaks, including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Kanchenjunga simultaneously
Visit the sacred Sabal Tsho Lake (4,600m) in the upper Hinku valley — a remote high-altitude glacial lake rarely visited by trekkers, surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks
Experience the dramatic Zatrawala Pass (4,610m) on Day 4 — a high crossing from the Lukla approach into the Hinku valley with extraordinary views of Kusum Kangguru and surrounding peaks
Spend time at Khare (5,045m) — the highest teahouse settlement in the Hinku valley and base for Mera Peak climbing expeditions — where the scale of the high Himalaya becomes fully apparent
Descend into the Khumbu valley via Chhukung — arriving in the heart of the Everest region after the Ama Lapcha crossing, with views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Island Peak
Pass through Pangboche and Khumjung — two of the most culturally significant Sherpa villages in the Khumbu, home to ancient monasteries and deep Himalayan Buddhist tradition
A rare and complete cross-valley wilderness traverse — entering via Lukla into the Hinku and exiting via Lukla from the Khumbu after crossing two 5,000m+ passes and one technical 5,800m pass
One of the most adventurous and challenging non-technical treks in Nepal — combining remote wilderness, high passes, and cultural immersion into a single unforgettable 19-day journey

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 Day 1 — Arrival in Kathmandu (1,310m / 4,600ft)

You will arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. Your Alliance Treks representative will pick you up and transfer you to the hotel in Thamel, Kathmandu. After checking in, spend the afternoon exploring Thamel and the nearby areas.

Day 2 Kathmandu Sightseeing & Trek Preparation

A full day in Kathmandu for final preparation and cultural exploration. You will visit the most important heritage sites like Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa and Kathmandu Durbar Square. The afternoon is free, you can check the equipment and gear rental before your the Lukla flight tomorrow.

Day 3 Fly Kathmandu to Lukla & Trek to Chutanga (3,450m / 11,319ft)

Walking Distance3-4 hours

An early morning transfer to Kathmandu domestic airport for a 35-minute mountain flight to Lukla (2,800m) in the Khumbu region of eastern Nepal. After landing in Namche Bazaar and spending a few hours, your first hike begins to Chutanga.

Day 4 Trek Chutanga (3,450m / 11,319ft) to Khartitang (3,900m / 12,795ft) via Zatrawala Pass (4,610m / 15,124ft)

Walking Distance6 hrs

After breakfast, you will start your 6-hour trek through the rocky alpine terrain to Khartitang passing the Zatrawala Pass at 4,610m.

Day 5 Trek Khartitang (3,900m / 12,795ft) to Kothe (3,600m / 11,811ft)

Walking Distance4 hrs

A short day after the demanding Zatrawala crossing. The trail descends from Khartitang into the main Hinku Valley through rhododendron and dense forest. After 4 hours of walking, you'll reach Kothe (3,600m) - a small seasonal settlement with basic teahouses used primarily by Mera Peak climbing expeditions.

Day 6 Trek Kothe (3,600m / 11,811ft) to Tangnang (4,356m / 14,271ft) via Sabal Tsho Lake (4,600m)

One of the most beautiful days of the entire trek. The trail climbs steadily up the Hinku Valley through glacial terrain to Tangnang (4,356m) - a high alpine camp with views of the Mera Peak range.

Day 7 Acclimatization Day at Tangnang (4,356m / 14,271ft)

A mandatory acclimatization day at Tangnang before the high-altitude push to Khare. A short acclimatization hike to approximately 4,700-4,800m above the camp before returning to Tangnang. Use the afternoon to rest completely and be ready for tomorrow's push.

Day 8 Trek Tangnang (4,356m / 14,271ft) to Khare (5,045m / 16,552ft)

The trail climbs above Tangnang through the upper Hinku Valley to Khare (5,045m) - the highest teahouse settlement in the Hinku Valley and traditional base camp for Mera Peak climbing expedition.

Day 9 Rest Day at Khare (5,045m / 16,552ft)

A second mandatory acclimatization day before the crossing of Mera La Pass tomorrow. Your guide will prepare you for the Mera La crossing and the Ama Lapcha Pass crossing on Day 14. The afternoon is for complete rest.

Day 10 Trek Khare (5,045m / 16,552ft) to Mera La Pass (5,350m / 17,766ft) & Kongmanima (5,220m)

Departing Khare in the early morning, the trail climbs steeply through glaciated terrain to the Mera La Pass at 5,350m - the highest point of the Hinku valley and the gateway to the remote glacial plateau beyond.

Day 11 Trek Kongmanima (5,220m / 17,126ft) to Seto Pokhari (4,500m / 14,764ft)

From Kongmanima, the trail traverses the remote glacial plateau south of the Ama Lapcha. The descent to Seto Pokhari (White Lake) at 4,500m is gradual through increasingly open terrain.

Day 12 Trek Seto Pokhari (4,500m / 14,764ft) to Ama Lapcha High Camp (5,500m / 18,044ft)

A short but important day, climbing from Seto Pokhari to the high camp beneath the Ama Lapcha Pass at 5,500m. Crampons may be required for sections of this part depending on seasonal conditions.

Day 13 Cross Ama Lapcha Pass (5,800m / 19,029ft) & Descend to Chhukung (4,800m / 15,748ft)

The most highlighted date of this trek, rising at 2-3 AM, your guide leads the ascent to the Ama Lapcha Pass in the dark. Reaching the Ama Lapcha Pass (5,800m) at dawn is an extraordinary experience as you can view Ama Dablam (6,812m), Lhotse (8,516m), Island Peak (6,189m), and the entire Khumbu Himalaya spread before you in the morning light. The descent from the pass into Chhukung is steep, rocky, and requires careful footing.

Day 14 Trek Chhukung (4,800m / 15,748ft) to Pangboche (3,985m / 13,074ft)

A beautiful descent day through the classical Khumbu Landscape. From Chhukung, the trail drops through the Imja valley past Dingboche, and you reach Pangboche (3,985m) - one of the oldest and most culturally significant Sherpa villages in the Khumbu.

Day 15 Trek Pangboche (3,985m / 13,074ft) to Khumjung (3,790m / 12,434ft)

Descending through Tengboche with its famous monastery (the largest in the Khumbu, spectacularly positioned on a ridge with views of Ama Dablam and Everest), crossing the Dudh Koshi river, and climbing to Khumjung on the ridge above Namche Bazar. Khumjung (3,790m) is one of the most prosperous and well-established Sherpa villages in the Khumbu.

Day 16 Trek Khumjung (3,790m / 12,434ft) to Monjo (2,835m / 9,301ft)

The descent continues, dropping from the Khumbu through Namche Bazar to Monjo (2,835m) - one of the most dramatic trail sections in the Khumbu with cliffs above a river and suspension bridges.

Day 17 Trek Monjo (2,835m / 9,301ft) to Lukla (2,800m / 9,186ft)

The final day of trekking. The trail drops from Monjo through Jorsale and Phakding to reach Lukla. Stay the night in Lukla and rest for the day.

Day 18 Fly Lukla to Kathmandu (1,310m)

An early morning transfer to Lukla airport for the return flight to Kathmandu. After 35-minute flights, you will land at Tribhuvan International Airport, and you will be transferred to the hotel in Thamel. The evening is free for Kathmandu sightseeing and souvenir shopping in Thamel.

Day 19 Departure from Kathmandu

After breakfast, your Alliance Treks representative transfers you to the international terminal at Tribhuvan International Airport in time for your onward flight home.

Cost Includes in Ama Lapcha Pass

2 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
All accommodation in local teahouses and tented camps throughout the trek
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner on all trekking days
Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu domestic round-trip airfare
Domestic airport taxes as applicable
Kathmandu airport to hotel and hotel to airport private vehicle transfers
One experienced, government-licensed senior English-speaking trekking guide throughout
One experienced high-altitude assistant guide for pass crossing days (Mera La and Ama Lapcha)
Necessary porters — 1 porter per 2 trekkers — including wages, meals, insurance, and equipment
All crew members' wages, meals, accommodation, insurance, and equipment
Sagarmatha National Park entry permit
Makalu Barun National Park entry permit (for Hinku Valley section)
TIMS card (Trekkers' Information Management System)
All other required trekking permits and conservation fees
Technical pass crossing equipment — fixed ropes, snow stakes, and anchoring equipment for Ama Lapcha
Tented camp equipment for high-altitude camp nights — sleeping tent, dining tent, toilet tent, kitchen
Trekking map of Hinku Valley, Mera La, and Khumbu region
Free use of sleeping bag (rated -20°C), down jacket, crampons, and trekking duffel bag on a returnable basis
First aid kit and emergency oxygen for all sections above 5,000m
Satellite phone for emergency communication throughout the trek
All applicable government taxes and service charges
24/7 support from the Alliance Treks team throughout

Cost Excludes in Ama Lapcha Pass Trek

Meals in Kathmandu beyond breakfast (Days 1, 2, 18, 19)
Personal travel and medical insurance — mandatory, covering helicopter rescue to a minimum 6,500m
Emergency helicopter rescue costs — must be covered by personal travel insurance
Personal climbing and trekking equipment — mountaineering boots, ice axe, personal crampons, trekking poles, technical clothing
Personal expenses throughout the trek — snacks, extra drinks, hot showers, Wi-Fi, device charging, souvenirs
Tips and gratuities for guide, assistant guide, and porters — strongly appreciated and customary on technical routes
Nepal entry visa fee — payable on arrival at Kathmandu airport (currently USD $30 for 15 days)
International airfare to and from Nepal
Any additional nights in Kathmandu or Lukla due to weather-related flight delays or cancellations
Filming and photography permits if required for commercial use
Alcoholic beverages throughout the trek
Any costs arising from natural disasters, political events, or circumstances beyond our control

From US$ US$ (Price varies by group size)

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Detailed Overview of Ama Lapcha Pass Trek

The Hinku Valley — Nepal’s Hidden Wilderness

The Hinku Valley is one of the least-visited major valleys in the Khumbu region of eastern Nepal. Flanked by Mera Peak (6,476m), Kusum Kangguru (6,367m), and a series of unnamed peaks and glaciers, the valley sees only a fraction of the trekker numbers of the adjacent Khumbu and Gokyo regions. There are no road connections, no helicopter landing pads in the upper valley, and very limited teahouse infrastructure above Kothe.

What the Hinku offers instead is exactly what serious trekkers and wilderness lovers seek — genuine remoteness, untouched glacial landscapes, absolute silence above 4,000m, and the extraordinary privilege of walking through a major Himalayan valley almost completely alone. The Sabal Tsho Lake at 4,600m in the upper valley is one of the finest high-altitude lakes in eastern Nepal and is rarely visited even by the small number of trekkers who enter the Hinku.

The Three Passes — Zatrawala, Mera La, and Ama Lapcha

This 19-day route crosses three significant high passes — each with its own character and challenge.

Zatrawala Pass (4,610m) on Day 4 is the entry point to the Hinku Valley from Lukla. A long, cold crossing through rocky alpine terrain with views of Kusum Kangguru and the remote peaks of the Hinku Himal — it sets the tone for the adventure immediately and separates this route from standard Khumbu trekking from the very first full day.

Mera La Pass (5,350m) on Day 10 is the gateway between the lower and upper Hinku — a glaciated high pass with one of the most celebrated panoramic views in Nepal. On a clear morning from Mera La you can see five 8,000m peaks simultaneously — Everest (8,848m), Lhotse (8,516m), Makalu (8,485m), Cho Oyu (8,201m), and Kanchenjunga (8,586m) — all visible in a single unobstructed sweep. This view alone justifies the journey.

Ama Lapcha Pass (5,800m) on Day 14 is the centrepiece of the entire trek. The approach from Seto Pokhari via the high camp at 5,500m involves glacier travel, and the pass crossing itself requires basic crampon technique and fixed rope assistance provided by your Alliance Treks guide. The descent into Chhukung on the Khumbu side is steep and technically demanding — but arriving in the Khumbu having crossed from the Hinku via this extraordinary pass is one of the great achievements of Himalayan trekking.

Acclimatization Strategy

The Ama Lapcha Pass Trek reaches serious altitude early and stays high for an extended period. Two dedicated acclimatization days — at Tangnang (4,356m) on Day 7 and at Khare (5,045m) on Day 9 — are built into the itinerary as non-negotiable safety requirements. Trekkers should be aware that the crossing of Mera La (5,350m) on Day 10 and the Ama Lapcha (5,800m) on Day 14 both occur after these acclimatization days — the itinerary is designed with this progression specifically to maximize safety and summit success.

Any trekker experiencing serious altitude symptoms (severe headache, confusion, inability to walk straight, or breathlessness at rest) must descend immediately. Alliance Treks guides carry emergency oxygen and satellite phones on all high-altitude sections.

Technical Requirements

The Ama Lapcha Pass crossing requires basic glacier and snow travel skills. Your Alliance Treks guide will brief you fully on crampon fitting and use, ice axe self-arrest technique, and fixed rope protocol before the high camp day. Prior mountaineering experience is not required, but comfort on steep rocky and snowy terrain is essential. Trekkers who have previously crossed passes above 5,000m on snow are best prepared for this route.

Best Time to Trek

The best seasons are spring (late April to May) and autumn (October to November). The Ama Lapcha Pass carries permanent snow, and the crossing is most stable in these seasons when weather windows are longest and glacier conditions are most predictable. Early spring (March to early April) can be cold with significant snow on the passes — possible but demanding. The monsoon season (June to September) makes the pass crossing dangerous due to unstable snow conditions and poor visibility. Winter (December to February) is not recommended for this route.

You Should Know Before Travel Expand All Collapse All

The Ama Lapcha Pass Trek is rated very challenging - one of the most demanding non-expedition trekking routes in Nepal.

The Ama Lapcha Pass (also spelled Amphu Laptsa or Amphu Labtsa) sits at 5,800m on the ridge dividing the Hinku and Khumbu valleys in eastern Nepal. Unlike standard trekking passes, which involve hiking on rock and scree, the Ama Lapcha approach and upper crossing involve permanent snow and glacier ice. The final 200–300m to the col requires crampons and ascending fixed ropes placed by your guide on the steep snow couloir. The descent on the Khumbu side is on steep rock and scree, requiring careful footing.