Manaslu Larkya pass trekking of Nepal

Manaslu Larkya Pass trekking area is located between the Annapurna and Langtang Himalayan mountains, in the Gorkha District in central Nepal, north-west from Kathmandu. The name of the trekking come from Mt Manaslu 8163m which is eight-highest peak in the world. Larkya Pass, at elevation of 5213 m, is the high point of the Manaslu circuit trekking. Originally the Manaslu trekking start from Gorkha, Arughat but now a day the seasonable road to Machhekhola. After crossing Larkya pass, the descending trail intersects the Annapurna Circuit trail at Dharapani, in the Manang district of Nepal. From Dharapani you can return to Kathmandu or for the more adventurous you can start the Annapurna Circuit and cross the Thorong Pass into the Muktinath area and descend through the Kali Gandaki gorge, “the deepest gorge in the world”. Then walk out or bus/jeep to Pokhara for a well-deserved rest.

Manaslu trekking has been open since 1992. The Manaslu treks offer a combination of rich culture heritage, unsurpassed beauty, and biological diversity. Manaslu as one of the more demanding treks, so being in good or superior physical condition is required. Previous trekking experience in Nepal is also helpful, though not required. The Manaslu trek with the Larkya Pass crossing will reward the adventurous with an unparalleled alpine experience. Some locations, Tatopani (natural Hot Spring), Lho, Samdo Gau, Samdo, and Larkya Bazaar among others offer interesting cultural, ethnic and daily living differences from other treks such as villages and homes and daily living.

Special permits are required for this trek. The permit cost US$ 100 per week per person for autumn season (September to November), if more than one week then per day US$ 15 per person. For Dec-Aug the fee is US$ 75 per week per person and if more than one week per day US$ 10 per person. It is also required that Annapurna Conservation and Manaslu Conservation permits be obtained at about US$ 30 per person per entry.

Manaslu trek is possible for tea houses/guest house trekking for small groups or individuals. However, every year new hotels and restaurants are being built as tourist interest and aspiration in this trek rises, so people wanting to do this trek should do it before it becomes more developed. Private rooms are available in most guest houses/lodges. Most bathroom are shared. In the Larkya base camp called Dharmasala, or Larkya phedi, a basic tea house or tents are available. Every guest house serves the traditional Nepali meal Dal Bhat (rice, curry and lentil soup). All guest houses of our routes have a variety of different food items, such as rice, vegetables, noodles, potatoes and soup. Many of them have western food on the menu. Soft drinks, snacks, wine, bottled mineral water and beer are available in most of the guest houses and trail side restaurants but can become expensive with the higher altitude.

At the beginning, Manaslu trek started from Gorkha Bazaar, where King Pirthivi Narayan Shah was born. He is considered the “the founder of Nepal''. But now a seasonal road reaches Aarughat or continues to Sotikhola to Machha Khola. Every year the road continues building and going to join China boarder. It takes 5-7 hours drives from Kathmandu to Aarughat and one-hour drive to Sotikhola, if want continues drive to Machhekhola takes another 2 hours. Trekking trails follow the Budi Gandaki River all the way to Dharmashala. From Larkya La (pass) 5213m, attractive views of Himalchuli, Manaslu 8118m, Ganesh Himal, Singi Himal, and other mountains and beautiful landscapes can be seen. After the pass crossing, the trek descends quickly in just a few days and meets the Annapurna Circuit route at Dharapani in the Annapurna conservation area. You can then walk down to Besisahar within 2 days, or possibly a seasonable Jeep drive of 6–8 hours from Tilche is available. You can also to continue to trek on the Annapurna Circuit, crossing the Thorong La (pass) 5416m, and end your trek in Pokhara or other places walking out such as Jomsom, Tatopani, Nayapul or Beni as well.

Asian Hiking Team organize the Manaslu circuit trek as full board package, however it is possible to arrange permits and guide service as well. Our local guides have many years of guiding experience in the Manaslu region. Many of our guides originally come from Manaslu area. Our guides are trained in first aid and know how to handle any situation. We wish to provide guides who can get people to feel involved in what they are experiencing, explain it thoroughly and keep them entertained. They know very well how to facilitate a smooth and safe trip, appreciating the beauty of the Manaslu Himalayas. Our porters can carry 20 to 25 KG. Their firsthand experience, local knowledge, expertise, and humor on this trek are invaluable.