Trip Details

  • Destination: Nepal

About Larkya La Pass Trek

The Larkya La Pass trek is part of the renowned Manaslu Circuit in Nepal, offers trekkers an extraordinary journey through remote Himalayan landscapes, rich culture heritage, and breathtaking mountain vistas. It is located in the Manaslu Conservation Area; the treks traverse the world’s eighth-highest peak, Mt Manaslu and culminate in the crossing of Larkya La Pass at an altitude of 5160 meters. The trail begins in lowland villages near Arughat or Machha Khola and gradually ascends through lush forests, terraced fields, and Tibetan-influenced settlements, offering an immersive experience in Nepal’s diverse topography and ethnic cultures, and Tibetan communities.

As trekkers moves higher, the landscapes transition into alpine terrain, with spectacular views of snow-capped peaks such as Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal and Annapurna II. The ascent typically starts before dawn from Dharmashala (also called Larkya Phedi); where trekkers make their final push across the icy and often wind-swept pass. The routes are steep and challenging, especially in snowy or windy conditions, but the panoramic views from the top are awe-inspiring and make the effort worthwhile. Upon crossing the pass, the trail descends steeply into the Marsyangdi Valley, reconnecting with the more traveled Annapurna region near Bimthang and eventually leading down to Dharapani.

What sets the Larkya La Pass Trek apart is its sense of remoteness and unspoiled nature. Unlike the more commercialized Everest and Annapurna treks, the Manaslu region sees fewer trekkers, preserving a sense of solitude and authenticity. The region is protected under the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP), supporting both biodiversity and sustainable tourism. Trekkers must obtain special permits and be accompanied by a licensed guide, which helps maintain the integrity of the environment and the safety of travelers. With its challenging high passes, cultural richness, and stunning scenery, the Larkya La Pass Trek stands as one of Nepal’s most rewarding yet less-traveled trekking adventures.

Difficulty level of Larkya La Pass Trek

Larkya La Pass trek is considered as one of the toughest treks, where the challenge comes from the altitude, length, and rugged terrain. Trekkers traverse remote mountain trails, often for 14 to 18 days, gradually ascending to Larkya La Pass at 5160 meters (16930 feet). The high altitude can lead to symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), so proper acclimatization is crucial. Weather condition near the pass can be harsh and unpredictable, especially during early spring or late autumn, adding to the difficulty.

Despite these challenges, the trek does not require technical climbing skills, making it accessible to physically fit trekkers with some prior high-altitude hiking experience. The trail offers a mix of steep ascents, descents, and long walking days, sometimes exceeding 7 to 8 hours. However, the difficulty is balanced by the incredible rewards: breathtaking views of Manaslu, Himlung, Cheo, and Annapurna ranges, along with the cultural richness of Tibetan-influenced villages. With good preparation, a guided itinerary, and steady pacing, the Larkya La Pass is a demanding yet highly rewarding Himalayan adventure.

Highlights

  • Offering an immersive in Nepal’s diverse topography and ethnic cultures, and Tibetan communities
  • Offers trekkers an extraordinary journey through remote Himalayan landscapes, rich culture heritage, and breathtaking mountain vistas
  • Trail descends steeply into the Marsyangdi Valley, reconnecting with the more traveled Annapurna region
  • Trek stands as one of Nepal’s most rewarding yet less-traveled trekking adventures

Outline Itinerary

  • Day 1Arrive in Kathmandu
  • Day 2Sightseeing at Kathmandu
  • Day 3Drive to Soti Khola from Kathmandu
  • Day 4Soti Khola - Machha Khola
  • Day 5Machha Khola - Jagat
  • Day 6Jagat - Deng
  • Day 7Deng - Namrung
  • Day 8Namrung - Samagaun
  • Day 9Acclimatization day at Samagaun
  • Day 10Samagaun - Samdo
  • Day 11Samdo - Larkya Phedi
  • Day 12Larkya Phedi - Bimthang
  • Day 13Bimthang - Dharapani
  • Day 14Dharapani - Jagat
  • Day 15Drive back to Kathmandu
  • Day 16Departure day
Day to day details itinerary

What's Included

  • Airport pick up and drop by private vehicle
  • Private vehicle ticket (Kathmandu to Soti Khola and Jagat to Kathmandu)
  • Necessary permits and special permits fee
  • Three time meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) during trekking
  • Fluently English-speaking and government licensed holder guide
  • Salary of Guide and porter
  • Personal expansion
  • Lunch and Dinner at Kathmandu
  • Tips for guide and porter
  • Extra night at Kathmandu
  • Travel insurance and rescues operation cost

Useful Information

Lakya La Pass Trek Routes

The Larkya La Pass trek is part of the Manaslu circuit trek in Nepal, is a remote and challenging route that offers breathtaking mountain scenery, cultural richness, and dramatic landscapes. Starting typically from Soti Khola or Machha Khola, the trail follows the Budhi Gandaki River through lush forests, terraced fields, and traditional Gurung and Tibetan-influenced villages such as Namrung, Sama Gaun, and Samdo. As trekkers ascend, they experience a gradual transition from subtropical vegetation to alpine environments. Sama Gaun, located at the foot of Manaslu, serves as an important acclimatization stop with optional hikes to Manaslu Base Camp or Pungyen Gompa.

The trek’s highlights is the crossing of Larkya La Pass (5160 meters), a high altitude mountain pass surrounded by stunning views of peak like Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Annapurna II. The ascent to the pass is steep and demanding, especially in snow conditions, but the panoramic vistas from the top make it worthwhile. After crossing the pass, the trail descends sharply to Bimthang, and then continues through rhododendron forests and alpine meadows to Dharapani, where the trek connects with the Annapurna Circuit.

Is Larkya La Pass Trek worth it?

Yes, the Larkya La Pass trek is worth it for trekkers seeing a less-crowded, raw Himalayan experience. The trail offers a stunning mix of natural beauty, from lush forests and alpine meadows to dramatic mountain vistas, including views of Manaslu the world’s eighth-highest peak. Cultural richness is another highlight, with the trek passing through remote villages inhabited by Tibetan-influenced communities, offering authentic interactions and insights into traditional lifestyle. Compares to more commercialized routes like the Annapurna Circuit, Manaslu remains relatively untouched, preserving a sense of solitude and adventure.

However, the Larkya La Pass trek is also physically demanding and requires good preparation. The pass itself stands at 5160 meters and involves challenging ascents and descents, often in cold and windy conditions. Infrastructure along the trails is more basic, and trekking here requires a special permit with a registered guide. But for those willing to take on the challenges, the rewards are immense-spectacular scenery, cultural immersion, and a true sense of accomplishment in one of Nepal’s most beautiful and unexplored trekking region.