<p>Traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) of pastoral communities is vital to the sustainable management of rangelands. We documented the knowledge systems, practices, and governance mechanisms of high-altitude pastoral communities in Nepal and examined how these attributes contribute to sustainable rangeland management, including biodiversity conservation, livelihood sustainability, and climate change adaptation. We gathered data through focus group discussions (<i>n</i> = 12), key informant interviews (<i>n</i> = 103), participatory mapping (<i>n</i> = 12), and direct observations in two rural municipalities of Jumla District, Nepal. Descriptive analysis was conducted on quantitative data and thematic analysis on qualitative data. Our results show that herders practice a traditional transhumance system guided by a customary grazing calendar, moving livestock along 57 transhumance routes and 111 designated stopping locations for specified periods. They also adopt rotational grazing by dividing large grazing areas into smaller pastures and systematically moving livestock from one pasture to another, while diversifying herd composition. Customary rules, the designation of sacred sites, and adherence to traditional rituals help conserve ecosystems and strengthen the connection between pastoral communities and their surrounding landscapes.</p>