The Ngozumpa Glacier flows about 36 km south from the slopes of Cho Oyu and Gyachung Kang. Its lower part is covered in rock debris, so from above it looks like a vast grey quarry, but beneath the rubble the ice is tens to hundreds of metres thick. Melt ponds dot its surface, turquoise or grey depending on sediment, and some are merging into larger lakes, a sign of the glacier thinning as the climate warms.
Trekkers heading for the Cho La cross the glacier from Gokyo to Thangnak (also called Dragnag), at about 4,700 m on the east side. The path climbs over the moraine wall behind Gokyo, drops onto the ice and winds between mounds of rubble, ice cliffs and ponds, marked with cairns. The route shifts slightly every season as the ice moves, so a guide who has crossed recently is valuable. Expect 2 to 3 hours.
Walk carefully: stones on ice can slide, and the edges of melt ponds are unstable. Stay on the marked route, keep away from ice cliffs and listen for falling rocks. The crossing is not technical and needs no special equipment in normal conditions. At Thangnak, a few simple lodges serve as the base for crossing the Cho La early the next morning.
Good for
- Solo
- Groups
- Photographers
Questions travellers ask
Is crossing the Ngozumpa Glacier dangerous?
It is not technical, but the rubble-covered ice is uneven and stones can slide. Stay on the cairned route with a guide, keep away from ice cliffs and pond edges, and avoid crossing in poor visibility. It takes about 2–3 hours.
How long is the Ngozumpa Glacier?
About 36 km, making it the longest glacier in Nepal. It flows from Cho Oyu and Gyachung Kang south past Gokyo, with its lower section covered in rock debris and melt ponds.
Where do I sleep after crossing the Ngozumpa?
At Thangnak (Dragnag), around 4,700 m, on the east side of the glacier. It has a few basic lodges and is the usual base for crossing the Cho La to Dzongla the next morning.
