Manaslu and Larkya La Pass Trek: Nepal’s Hidden Himalayan Gem

25 May 2025 damodar pyakurel

The Manaslu Circuit Trek, featuring the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,106m/16,752ft), is one of Nepal’s most rewarding trekking experiences. This trek circles Mount Manaslu (8,156m), the eighth-highest mountain in the world, taking you through diverse landscapes, traditional villages, and offering spectacular views of the Himalayas.

If you’re looking for a remote, rugged, and utterly rewarding trekking experience in Nepal, the Manaslu Circuit Trek via Larkya La Pass should be high on your list. Less commercialized than the Annapurna or Everest regions, this trek offers raw natural beauty, deep cultural heritage, and challenging alpine terrain that rivals any of the more famous routes.

Trek Highlights

• Circling the 8th-highest mountain in the world
• Crossing the challenging Larkya La Pass (5,106m)
• Diverse landscapes from lush forests to alpine terrain
• Traditional villages with rich Buddhist culture
• Less crowded than Annapurna or Everest treks

Quick Facts

• Duration: 14-18 days
• Distance: Approximately 177 km
• Maximum Altitude: 5,106m (Larkya La Pass)
• Difficulty: Challenging (strenuous)
• Best Seasons: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November)
• Permits Required: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, MCAP, ACAP

Itinerary

A typical Manaslu Circuit Trek itinerary spans 14-18 days, allowing for proper acclimatization and enjoyment of the surroundings. Below is a sample 14-day itinerary:

Note: The itinerary may vary depending on your trekking agency, acclimatization needs, and weather conditions. Some itineraries include the Tsum Valley extension, which adds 5-7 days to the trek.

Essential Equipment and Packing List

Proper preparation and packing are crucial for the Manaslu Circuit Trek due to the varying climates and high altitude. Here’s a comprehensive packing list:

Clothing

• Moisture-wicking base layers (2-3 sets)
• Lightweight trekking pants (2-3 pairs)
• Insulated/fleece jacket
• Down jacket (for high altitudes)
• Waterproof and windproof outer layer (jacket and pants)
• Thermal underwear
• Hiking shorts (optional, for lower elevations)
• T-shirts (2-3)
• Warm hat
• Sun hat or cap
• Gloves (lightweight and heavyweight)
• Neck gaiter or scarf
• Underwear and socks (enough for the trek duration)
• Gaiters (especially if trekking during or near monsoon season)

Footwear

• Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots (broken in before the trek)
• Lightweight camp shoes/sandals for evenings
• Wool or synthetic hiking socks (4-5 pairs)
• Sock liners (optional, to prevent blisters)

Sleeping Gear

• Sleeping bag (rated for -15°C to -20°C)
• Sleeping bag liner (adds warmth and cleanliness)
• Inflatable pillow (optional)

Bags and Packs

• Duffel bag or backpack (50-90 liters, for porters)
• Daypack (25-35 liters, for carrying daily essentials)
• Waterproof pack cover
• Dry bags or plastic bags (to keep items dry)

Personal Items

• Trekking poles (highly recommended for the pass)
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Water bottles (2 x 1 liter) or hydration bladder
• Water purification tablets or filter
• Sunglasses (UV protection, preferably polarized)
• Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Personal first-aid kit
• Hand sanitizer
• Toilet paper and wet wipes
• Quick-dry towel
• Camera with extra batteries
• Power bank
• Snacks (energy bars, dried fruits, nuts)

Documents and Money

• Passport and copies
• Trekking permits
• Travel insurance documentation
• Cash in Nepali Rupees (no ATMs on the trail)
• Route map
• Emergency contact information

Medical Supplies

• Personal medications
• Altitude sickness medication (Diamox)
• Bandages, blister plasters
• Antiseptic wipes/cream
• Cold and flu medication

Best Time to Visit

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is best undertaken during the two main seasons:

Spring (March to May)

• Clear skies and excellent mountain views
• Moderate temperatures during the day
• Beautiful rhododendron forests in bloom
• Stable weather conditions
• Second busiest trekking season

Autumn (September to November)

• The most popular season for trekking
• Clear skies with the best mountain views
• Stable weather patterns
• Comfortable temperatures
• Festive season in Nepal (Dashain and Tihar)
• More crowded compared to other seasons

Winter (December to February)

• Very cold temperatures, especially at higher elevations
• Larkya La Pass may be impassable due to snow
• Clear skies and good visibility on clear days
• Fewer trekkers, more solitude
• Some teahouses might be closed
• Only recommended for experienced trekkers

Summer/Monsoon (June to August)

• Least favorable season due to monsoon rains
• Leeches in lower altitudes
• Slippery trails and risk of landslides
• Limited mountain views due to clouds
• Fewer trekkers
• Lush green landscapes and blooming wildflowers
• Not recommended for most trekkers

Difficulty Level and Challenges

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is classified as a strenuous trek that presents several challenges:

Physical Demands

• Long daily hikes (6-8 hours) for multiple consecutive days
• Significant altitude gain and loss
• Steep ascents and descents
• The challenging Larkya La Pass crossing (5,106m)

Altitude Concerns

• High risk of altitude sickness above 3,000m
• Proper acclimatization is essential
• Symptoms can include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue
• Emergency evacuation can be difficult in remote areas

Trail Conditions

• Rocky and uneven paths, especially near the pass
• Narrow trails with steep drop-offs in some sections
• River crossings on suspension bridges
• Snow and ice are possible at higher elevations
• Muddy trails during and after the monsoon season

Weather Challenges

• Unpredictable mountain weather
• Cold temperatures at higher elevations (below freezing at night)
• Potential snow and strong winds at Larkya La Pass
• Varying temperatures between different altitudes

Preparation Advice: Good physical fitness is essential for this trek. Prepare by doing cardio exercises, strength training, and practice hikes with a loaded backpack for at least 2-3 months before the trek. Previous high-altitude trekking experience is recommended but not required.

Permits and Regulations

The Manaslu region is a restricted area, and several permits are required for the trek:

Required Permits

• Manaslu Restricted Area Permit:
  • September to November: USD 100 per week per person
  • December to August: USD 75 per week per person
• Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) Permit: $30 per person
• Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) Permit: $30 per person
• Tsum Valley Permit: Additional USD -40 per week (if including Tsum Valley)

Important Regulations

• Trekking solo is not permitted in the Manaslu region
• A minimum of two trekkers with a licensed guide is required
• All permits must be arranged through a registered trekking agency in Nepal
• Trekkers must follow a designated route
• Passport-sized photos are required for permit applications
• Travel insurance with helicopter evacuation coverage is mandatory

All permits can be arranged through registered trekking agencies in Kathmandu. The process usually takes 1-2 days, so plan accordingly.

Accommodation and Food

The Manaslu Circuit Trek offers teahouse accommodation throughout the route, though facilities are more basic than the more popular treks like Everest and Annapurna.

Teahouses

• Basic accommodations with shared bathrooms
• Twin beds or simple mattresses
• Limited electricity (solar-powered in most places)
• Charging facilities are available for a fee
• More basic facilities at higher elevations

Food Options

• Traditional Nepali dal bhat (rice, lentil soup, and vegetables)
• Momo (dumplings), noodle soups, and pasta dishes
• Limited menu variety at higher elevations
• Vegetarian options are widely available
• Safe drinking water (boiled or treated) is available for purchase
• Prices increase with altitude

Food and Water Safety: Stick to cooked foods and boiled or treated water to avoid stomach issues. Bring water purification tablets or a filter to save money and reduce plastic waste.

Health and Safety Tips

Staying healthy and safe during the Manaslu Circuit Trek should be your top priority:

Altitude Sickness Prevention

• Ascend slowly
• “Climb high, sleep low” principle
• Stay hydrated (drink at least 3-4 liters of water daily)
• Consider taking Diamox (acetazolamide) as a preventive measure
• Recognize symptoms: headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue
• Descend immediately if symptoms persist or worsen

General Health Tips

• Get a medical check-up before the trek
• Bring necessary medications and a comprehensive first-aid kit
• Use sunscreen and lip balm with high SPF
• Wear sunglasses to protect against UV radiation
• Practice good hygiene (frequent hand washing)
• Avoid alcohol at high altitudes
• Eat well and maintain energy levels

Safety Considerations

• Trek with a licensed guide who knows the area
• Check weather forecasts before crossing Larkya La Pass
• Always use trekking poles, especially for the pass
• Stay on marked trails
• Inform someone about your daily plans
• Carry a fully charged phone and power bank
• Have a plan for emergency evacuation

Insurance

• Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory
• Coverage for high-altitude trekking
• Keep insurance details and emergency contacts accessible

Cultural Considerations

The Manaslu region is rich in cultural heritage, with predominantly Buddhist communities influenced by Tibetan culture:

Cultural Etiquette

• Always walk clockwise around stupas, mani stones, and monasteries
• Remove shoes before entering monasteries and homes
• Learn basic Nepali greetings (Namaste) and thank you (Dhanyabad)

Cultural Highlights

• Buddhist monasteries in Lho, Sama, and other villages
• Prayer wheels and mani walls along the trail
• Traditional Tibetan-influenced architecture
• Local festivals (check calendar for special events)
• Opportunities to interact with local communities

Final Thoughts

The Manaslu and Larkya La Pass Trek offers everything a Himalayan trekker could dream of: solitude, sacred culture, unspoiled nature, and a feeling of raw adventure. It’s physically demanding, especially crossing the pass, but the sense of achievement and the visuals from the top are simply unforgettable.

If you’re seeking the real Nepal, away from crowds and commercial tourism, this is your trail.