Manaslu Circuit Larkya La Pass Trekking in Nepal

Manaslu Circuit Larkya La Pass Trekking in Nepal is a captivating journey that takes you through some of Nepal’s most stunning landscapes and remote villages. This trek is often considered an alternative to the more popular Annapurna Circuit, offering a quieter and more pristine experience.

The Manaslu Circuit Larkya La Pass covers a distance of approximately 177 kilometers (110 miles) around the eighth-highest mountain in the world, Mount Manaslu (8,163 meters or 26,781 feet). The highlight of the trek is crossing the Larkya La Pass, which sits at an elevation of 5,160 meters (16,930 feet), offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

The trek starts from the town of Machhakhola and Larkya la passes through a variety of landscapes, including lush green forests, terraced fields, glacial rivers, and high alpine terrain. Along the way, trekkers encounter traditional Tibetan-influenced villages such as Samagaon and Samdo, where you can experience the rich local culture and hospitality.

Introduction to Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit Larkya La Pass Trekking in Nepal. This trek encircles the eighth-highest peak in the world, Mount Manaslu, standing tall at 8,163 meters (26,781 feet) and offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and challenging terrain.

The trek typically takes around 12 to 14 days to complete, depending on the route chosen and the pace of the trekker. It starts from the village of Soti Khola, where you embark on a thrilling adventure through diverse terrain, including lush forests, terraced fields, glacial rivers, and high mountain passes.

One of the highlights of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is crossing the formidable Larkya La Pass, situated at an altitude of 5,160 meters (16,930 feet). This pass offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including Manaslu itself, as well as Annapurna II and Himlung Himal.

Throughout the trek, you’ll encounter traditional Tibetan-influenced villages such as Samagaon, Samdo, and Lho, where you can immerse yourself in the rich local culture and hospitality. You’ll have the opportunity to interact with the friendly locals, visit ancient monasteries, and witness daily life in these remote mountain communities.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is less frequented compared to other popular treks in Nepal, offering a quieter and more pristine experience. However, its remote location and challenging terrain make it suitable for trekkers with some previous hiking experience and a good level of physical fitness.

Permits are required for the Manaslu Circuit Trek, including the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit. It’s recommended to trek with a licensed guide and/or porter for safety, and support, and to enhance your overall experience.

Planning Your Manaslu Circuit Trek

Pack Proper Gear: Prepare a comprehensive packing list including essential trekking gear such as sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing, a sleeping bag, a backpack, trekking poles, and other necessary items. Pack light but ensure you have all the essentials for the trek.

Acquire Travel Insurance: Purchase travel insurance that covers trekking activities in high-altitude regions. Ensure that the policy includes emergency medical evacuation and covers the maximum altitude of the trek.

Arrange Accommodation: Book accommodation in Kathmandu or Pokhara before and after the trek. During the trek, accommodation options include teahouses or guesthouses along the route. It’s advisable to book teahouses in advance during peak trekking seasons.

Stay Hydrated and Acclimatize: Stay hydrated throughout the trek by drinking plenty of water. Take rest days for acclimatization to prevent altitude-related illnesses such as altitude sickness. Listen to your body and trek at a pace that allows for proper acclimatization.

Trek Responsibly: Respect the local culture, traditions, and environment during your trek. Practice responsible trekking by minimizing your environmental impact, disposing of waste properly, and supporting local communities along the way.

Manaslu Trekking Route and Highlights

Scenic Beauty: The Manaslu Circuit offers stunning landscapes, including lush forests, terraced fields, glacial rivers, and high mountain passes, with panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Cultural Experience: Encounter traditional Tibetan-influenced villages, ancient monasteries, and hospitable locals along the trekking route, providing insight into the unique culture and way of life in the region.

Larkya La Pass: Crossing the challenging Larkya La Pass at an altitude of 5,160 meters is a highlight of the trek, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

Remote and Off-the-Beaten-Path: The Manaslu Circuit is less frequented than other popular treks in Nepal, offering a quieter and more authentic trekking experience away from the crowds.

Wildlife and Nature: The region is home to diverse flora and fauna, including Himalayan marmots, blue sheep, and various bird species, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Details Itinerary

1. Kathmandu to Machha Khola: The drive to Machhakhola from Kathmandu takes 7-8 hours. You’ll pass through terraced fields, lush forests, and small villages, eventually reaching Machha Khola.
2. Machha Khola to Jagat: The trail continues along the Budi Gandaki River, crossing several suspension bridges and climbing steep sections. You’ll pass through picturesque villages such as Dobhan and Tatopani before reaching Jagat, a Tibetan-influenced village.
3. Jagat to Deng: From Jagat, the trail gradually ascends through forested areas and terraced fields. You’ll pass through the village of Philim and continue to Deng, where you’ll start to notice the Tibetan culture becoming more prevalent.
4. Deng to Namrung: The trek continues through beautiful pine and rhododendron forests, with stunning views of Manaslu and other peaks. You’ll pass through the villages of Ghap and Namrung, where you can explore ancient monasteries and enjoy panoramic mountain vistas.
5. Namrung to Samagaon: The trail ascends further into the alpine region, with dramatic landscapes and impressive mountain views. You’ll pass through the villages of Lho and Shyala before reaching Samagaon, a traditional Tibetan village with a monastery and stunning views of Manaslu.
6. Acclimatization Day in Samagaon: Take a rest day in Samagaon for acclimatization and exploration. You can hike to nearby viewpoints or visit the Pungyen Gompa monastery.
7. Samagaon to Samdo: The trail continues to climb gradually as you trek towards Samdo, a Tibetan refugee settlement. Along the way, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Manaslu.
8. Acclimatization Day in Samdo: Another rest day for acclimatization in Samdo. You can hike to the border of Tibet or explore the village and interact with the locals.
9. Samdo to Dharamsala (Larkya Phedi): The trail ascends steeply towards Dharamsala, also known as Larkya Phedi, the base camp for crossing the Larkya La Pass. The landscape becomes more rugged and barren as you approach higher altitudes.
10. Crossing Larkya La Pass (5,160 meters): This is the most challenging part of the trek, crossing the high mountain pass. The ascent to the pass is steep and demanding, but you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas. Descend carefully on the other side of the pass to reach Bhimthang.
11. Bhimthang to Dharapani: The trail descends through alpine meadows and forests, passing through villages such as Tilje and Gho. You’ll eventually reach Dharapani, where the Annapurna Circuit trail joins the route.
12. Dharapani to Besi Sahar: The final leg of the trek follows the Annapurna Circuit trail from Dharapani to Besi Sahar, where you can catch transportation back to Kathmandu or Pokhara.