Highlights of the trek include:
- Diverse landscapes: From lush green valleys to barren, high-altitude deserts.
- Cultural immersion: Encountering diverse ethnic groups and experiencing their warm hospitality.
- Cross the Larke Pass: A challenging ascent rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views.
- Wildlife and nature: Spotting various flora and fauna in their natural habitat.
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Hotels in Kathmandu and in best available local lodges on treks
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At Larke la Pass at 5,106 m / 16, 752 feet
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11 Nights & 12 Days with drives both ways
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14 Nights & 15 Days arrival to departure
Overview
Manaslu Larke Pass Trek is a challenging yet rewarding adventure that takes trekkers through the heart of Nepal’s untamed wilderness. This trek offers a unique opportunity to explore a region that remains untouched by mass tourism. It provides an authentic and immersive experience.
The Manaslu region boasts a stunning array of landscapes, from lush green valleys to barren, high-altitude deserts. As you ascend towards the Larke Pass, you’ll encounter a gradual transformation of the environment. Terraced rice fields give way to dense rhododendron forests. Next, you’ll pass through alpine meadows. Eventually, you’ll reach the stark beauty of the glacial terrain.
Beyond the natural wonders, the Manaslu region is home to diverse ethnic groups. Each group has its own unique culture and traditions. Interacting with the friendly locals is a highlight of the trek. Their warm hospitality and genuine smiles create a memorable experience. You’ll have the chance to visit ancient monasteries, witness traditional festivals, and gain insights into the local way of life.
The ultimate challenge of the trek lies in crossing the Larke Pass. It stands at an impressive altitude of 5,106 meters. The ascent is demanding, requiring physical endurance and mental fortitude. However, the reward is unparalleled. From the summit, trekkers are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the Manaslu massif. They also see other Himalayan giants and the surrounding landscape.
The best time to embark on the Manaslu Larke Pass Trek is during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) seasons. The weather is generally stable during these periods, with clear skies offering optimal views.
Would you like to know more about specific aspects of the trek, such as the itinerary, difficulty level, or necessary permits?
Larke Pass Trek Itinerary
You will arrive in Kathmandu, be greeted by a guide, and stay at a hotel in the city. There will be a welcome dinner and a briefing about the upcoming trek.
After breakfast, you’ll visit Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient palaces and temples. Afterward, you’ll explore Swayambhunath Stupa, one of the oldest Buddhist monuments in Nepal, offering panoramic views of Kathmandu. The day concludes with a return to the hotel to prepare for the Manaslu Larke Pass Trek.
The journey begins with an early morning drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola, a village in the Gorkha District. This long journey will take approximately 9 hours. You will spend the night in a lodge or guesthouse in Machha Khola, which is a starting point for the Larke Pass Trek.
Today’s trek takes you from Machha Khola to Jagat, covering approximately 6 hours. You’ll leave behind the low, subtropical farmland and ascend to cooler hills. Highlights include a natural hot spring at Tatopani and the opportunity to explore the Hindu and Buddhist cultures in Jagat. You’ll spend the night in a lodge or guesthouse.
Today’s trek takes you from Jagat to Pewa, covering approximately 6 hours. You’ll enter the restricted Upper Manaslu area, requiring a special permit. The route takes you through farmlands, crosses a bridge, and passes through the village of Deng. You’ll experience a stronger Buddhist influence as you ascend towards Pewa, where you’ll spend the night.
Today’s trek takes you from Pewa to Namrung, covering approximately 6 hours. You’ll hike through a forested ridge before descending to Bhi Bazaar. The trail continues through farmlands to Namrung, where you’ll have stunning views of Mount Manaslu North Face and other peaks.
Today you’ll trek from Namrung to Lho Gaon, a journey of about 4 hours. You’ll ascend gradually through a forest of pine and rhododendron trees, offering stunning views of the Buri Gandaki River and surrounding landscapes. Lho Gaon is a picturesque village with a backdrop of Mount Manaslu.
Today’s trek takes you from Lho Gaon to Sama Gaon, an approximately 5-hour journey. You’ll ascend gradually through farm villages and yak herder camps, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. Sama Gaon is a significant village in the Manaslu region, offering opportunities to explore the local Buddhist culture.
Today is a rest day for acclimatization in Sama Gaon. You have several options:
Manaslu Base Camp: A full-day hike for experienced trekkers, offering stunning views of Mount Manaslu.
Birendra Tal: A shorter hike to a glacial lake with impressive mountain vistas.
Pungyen Gompa: A leisurely exploration of the village and its ancient monastery.
Today’s trek takes you from Sama Gaon to Samdo, an approximately 5-hour journey. You’ll leave the tree line behind and ascend through a rugged, high-altitude landscape. Samdo is the last village before crossing the Larkya La Pass and offers a glimpse into Tibetan culture.
Today’s trek takes you to Dharmasala (also known as Larke Phedi), the base camp for the Larke La Pass. It’s a relatively short hike, but the altitude is increasing. Dharmasala is a bustling place during peak trekking season, once a thriving trading center. The remainder of the day will be spent resting and preparing for the challenging ascent of the Larke La Pass tomorrow.
Today is the most challenging day of the trek. You’ll embark on an early morning ascent of the Larke La Pass (5,160m), the highest point of the trek. The reward for this demanding climb is a breathtaking panoramic view of the Manaslu and Annapurna Himalayan ranges. After descending the pass, you’ll reach Bhimthang (3,700m) for the night.
Today’s trek involves a 7-hour downhill walk from Bhimthang to Dharapani. The trail passes through forested areas and offers opportunities to relax in villages like Gho and Tilje. Dharapani is a popular trekking destination with a variety of accommodations and dining options.
The final day involves an approximately 8-hour drive back to Kathmandu. You’ll travel through the Lamjung district and along the Pokhara-Kathmandu highway. The journey will take you through diverse landscapes, from low farmlands to the Kathmandu valley.
Your adventure concludes with breakfast in Kathmandu. You’ll be transferred to the airport by your guide and staff for your departure flight home.
Essential Preparations
To successfully complete the Manaslu Larke Pass Trek, adequate preparation is essential. This includes physical conditioning, acclimatization, and proper gear. It’s advisable to hire a local guide and porter to ensure safety and a smooth journey.
The Manaslu Larke Pass Trek is undoubtedly a challenging endeavor, but the rewards are immense. It offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore a remote and pristine region, experience the warmth of local culture, and witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas.
PPS (Possible Problems and Solutions)
Altitude Sickness:
Prevention: Acclimatize properly, drink plenty of fluids, and avoid alcohol and smoking.
Treatment: If symptoms occur, descend to a lower altitude immediately and seek medical attention.
Weather Conditions:
Prevention: Check weather forecasts before the trek and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Solution: Pack appropriate clothing and gear, and be flexible with the itinerary.
Trekking Injuries:
Prevention: Proper footwear and trekking poles can help prevent injuries.
Treatment: Our guides are trained in basic first aid, and we carry a first aid kit. Severe injuries may require evacuation.
Gear Malfunction:
Prevention: Pack spare equipment and clothing.
Solution: Our guides can help with minor repairs, but it’s advisable to bring a basic repair kit.
Lost Luggage:
Prevention: Pack essential items in your carry-on bag.
Solution: Contact the airline immediately and report the lost luggage.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
The best time to trek the Manaslu Circuit is during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) seasons. These periods offer clear weather and stunning mountain views.
The Manaslu Larke Pass Trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek. While previous trekking experience is not mandatory, a good level of physical fitness is required.
While not mandatory, previous trekking experience can be beneficial. However, with good physical preparation, you can successfully complete the trek.
The highest point of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is Larkya La Pass, which is at an altitude of 5,160 meters (16,924 feet).
Yes, you need a special trekking permit to enter the restricted Manaslu region. Our agency will arrange the necessary permits for you.
