Larkya La Pass: A Complete Guide to the Manaslu Circuit Trek’s Highest Point

Overview

The Manaslu region is located in the northern part of Nepal. It is a peaceful and beautiful place, famous for its amazing landscapes and the giant Mount Manaslu, the eighth-highest peak in the world. This area is quieter than other trekking regions in Nepal, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy nature and calm surroundings. The trek takes you through green forests, small villages, and high mountain areas. You will see stunning views of snow-covered peaks and rough terrain. You will also experience the local culture of the people here, including Tibetan Buddhists, Gurungs, and Tamangs.

The highest trekking point of Manaslu Circuit Trek is Larkya La Pass and it is the most exciting part of the journey. At an impressive Larkya La altitude of 5,160 meters, reaching the pass is a significant achievement for trekkers. It offers some of the most breathtaking views in the entire region. As trekkers make their way toward the pass, they pass through grassy meadows, glaciers, and rocky ridges. The air becomes thin as the scenery appears almost otherworldly. Upon reaching the top of Larkya La, trekkers are rewarded with stunning views of Mount Manaslu, Himlung Himal, and other surrounding peaks, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

This Larkya la pass guide is a complete guide to the Manaslu Circuit Trek's highest point. The Larkya La section of the trek showcases the diverse environments of the Manaslu region. The journey begins in lush subtropical forests and gradually climbs to higher altitudes. Along the way, trekkers pass through Tibetan-style villages, ancient monasteries, and peaceful valleys. Reaching the pass provides scenic views and a strong sense of achievement. After crossing Larkya La, trekkers descend into the scenic Bimtang valley, where the landscape changes to lower green hills. The combination of challenging high-altitude trekking and the stunning beauty of the Manaslu region—especially the Larkya La Pass—makes this trek a truly memorable and rewarding adventure.

Highlights of the Larkya La Pass

The Manaslu Circuit via Larkya la Pass trek is a memorable and adventurous journey filled with exciting memories and unforgettable experiences. The scenic views from Larkya La Pass are breathtaking and offer a true highlight of the trek. There are several things to explore like:

Panoramic Mountain Views - From the pass, you can see stunning peals like Mt. Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Ngadichuli, creating an qew-inspiring Himalaya backdrop.
Glacier Views - The pass offers views of the Larkya Glacier, a massive ice field surrounded by towering peaks, adding to the dramatic scenery.
Lush Forests - Trek through green forests filled with rhododendrons and pine trees, especially in the lower altitudes.
Tibetan Villages - Visit villages like Saagaon and Samdo, where the culture is influenced by Tibetan traditions. You can see typical Tibetan-style houses and experience local customs..
Ancient Monasteries - Explore monasteries such as Samagaon Monastery and others along the trek, offering a glimpse into the spiritual life of the region.
Breathtaking Mountain View - Enjoy panoramic views of stunning peaks, including Mount Manaslu, Himlung Himal,Ngadi Chuli, and Cheo Himal.
Rocky Terrain and Glaciers - Traverse through rocky ridgelines,glaciers, and alpine meadows as you ascend towards Larkya La Pass. The Larkya Glacier is one of the significant glaciers in this area.
Larkya La Pass - Reach the highest point of the trek, the Larkya La Pass, offering stunning views of surrounding peaks and a sense of great accomplishment for trekkers.
Serene Valleys - Experience the peaceful atmosphere of valleys like Buri Gandaki Valley, which is lined with forests and rivers, offering a calm and beautiful trekking environment.
Bimtang Valley - After crossing Larkya La, descend into Bimtang Valley, a scenic valley surrounded by lush green hills and terraced fields.

Preparation for Larkya La Pass Trek:

Preparing for the Larkya La Pass trek requires careful planning due to its high-altitude nature, long days of trekking, and rugged terrain. This Larkya La Pass guide will help you prepare thoroughly for the trek by providing essential information. By following the guidance, you’ll be equipped to tackle the challenges of the trek. Here are some several important steps to prepare for a safe and comfortable trek:-

Physical Preparation: Train your body with exercises like running, hiking, and leg workouts. This helps you stay strong for long days of walking.
Practice for Altitude: Spend time at higher altitudes to get used to less oxygen. This will help prevent altitude sickness.
Take Acclimatization Days: Rest at higher altitudes for a day or two to help your body and avoid altitude sickness.
Hire a Guide and Porter: A guide helps with navigation, and a porter can carry your heavy bag, so you don’t get too tired.
Be Ready for Weather Changes: The weather conditions can change quickly in the mountains, so always be prepared for rain, wind or snow.
Mental Preparation: Mental strength is important for the trek. Be ready for long walking days, bad weather, and feeling isolated in remote areas.

The accommodation for the Larkya La Pass consists of basic tea houses and lodges along the trekking route. These are simple, with shared rooms and limited facilities, but they provide essential services like meals, a place to sleep, and a warm environment. The higher up you go, the more basic the accommodations become, with facilities mainly available in some villages. It’s important to be prepared for basic comfort and limited heating, especially as you ascend higher altitudes.

Outline Itinerary for Manaslu Circuit Trek via Larkya La Pass

Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Arughat (6-7 hours).

Day 2: Trek from Arughat to Soti Khola (15-20 km, 5-6 hours).

Day 3: Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola (14-16 km, 5-6 hours).

Day 4: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (18-20 km, 6-7 hours).

Day 5: Trek from Jagat to Deng (18-20 km, 6-7 hours).

Day 6: Trek from Deng to Namrung (10-12 km, 5-6 hours).

Day 7: Trek from Namrung to Samagaon (13-15 km, 6-7 hours).

Day 8: Acclimatization day in Samagaon (rest or optional hike).

Day 9: Trek from Samagaon to Samdo (10-12 km, 4-5 hours).

Day 10: Trek from Samdo to Larkya Phedi (10-12 km, 5-6 hours).

Day 11: Trek from Larkya Phedi to Larkya La Pass and Bimtang (12-14 km, 7-8 hours).

Day 12: Trek from Bimtang to Dharapani (15-20 km, 6-7 hours).

Day 13: Trek from Dharapani to Besisahar (15-20 km, 5-6 hours) and drive back to Kathmandu.

Note: This itinerary allows for acclimitization and exploration while ensuring a comfortable and well-paced trek. The Manaslu Circuit via Larkya La Pass trek duration is about 12-14 days depending on your pace and acclimatization schedule. Always remember that slow and steady wins the race.

Challenges While Trekking The Larkya La Pass

The Larkya La Pass trekking difficulty level is high due to its challenging routes which are physically demanding and require good fitness, proper acclimatization, and experience in mountain trekking. Some of the trekking challenges of Larkya La Pass are as follows:-

High Altitude: The trek reaches over 5,100 meters. This can cause altitude sickness, so acclimatization is important.
Difficult Terrain: The Larkya La Pass route is rocky, steepy, and sometimes covered in snow, making it hard to walk.
Cold Weather: It can be very cold, especially near the pass, with temperatures dropping below freezing.
Long Days of Walking: Some days require 7-8 hours of walking, which can be tiring with a heavy backpack.
Unpredictable Weather: The weather can change suddenly, with snow storms or rain making trekking harder.
Limited Facilities: As you go higher, there are fewer places to stay and eat, so you need to be prepared for basic conditions.

Best Time to Trek Larkya La Pass:

The best time to trek Larkya La Pass depends on the preferences of the trekkers.

Spring (March to May): The weather on Larkya La Pass is mild, and the trail is lush and green. The clear skies and blooming rhododendrons make it a great time for nature lovers and photographers who want to see both colourful and snow-capped peaks.
Winter (December to November): For those who love snow and a quieter trek, winter can be perfect. The trails are less crowded, and the mountains look stunning with fresh snow. However, it’s cold, and temperatures can drop below freezing, so proper winter gear is a must. The peaceful atmosphere and snowy scenery make this a unique experience for adventure trekkers.
Autumn (September to November): This is one of the most popular seasons for trekking Larkya La Pass. The weather is stable with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. The views of the Himalayas are amazing, and fall colors add to the beauty of the trek. It’s a great time for trekkers who want to capture stunning photos of the mountains and enjoy a more vibrant atmosphere. ?

Larkya La Pass Trekking Permits

The trek permits for Larkya La Pass are required for both foreigners and nepalese citizens are as follows:

Restricted Area Permit (RAP):

USD 100 for the first week and USD 15 per additional day for foreigners.
No permits required for Nepalese citizens.

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP):

Approx. USD 15 for foreigners.
NPR 100 for Nepalese citizens.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP):

Approx. USD 15 for foreigners.
NPR 100 for Nepalese citizens.

Important Tips:

Foreigners must trek with a licensed guide and obtain all three permits through a trekking agency.
Nepalese citizens do not need the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP) but will need the MCAP and ACAP.

Larkya La Pass Trek Distance

The Larkya La Pass trek covers a distance of approximately 150 to 180 kilometers. It is typically a 12 to 14-day trek, with trekkers walking 5 to 8 hours daily while carrying moderate backpacks. Trekkers are requested to walk slowly and take rest by acclimating with the weather to avoid altitude sickness.

Here’s a breakdown of the distance covered during the trek:

Kathmandu to Arughat - Approx. 70 km (by bus)
Arughat to Soti Khola - !5-20 km (trek starts)
Soti Khola to Machha Khola - 14-16 km
Maccha Khola to Jagat - 18-20 km
Jagat to Deng - 18-20 km
Deng to Namrung - 10-12 km
Namrung to Samagaon - 13-15 km
Samagaon to Samdo - 10-12 km
Samdo to Larkya Phedi - 10-12 km
Larkya Phedi to Larkya La Pass (crossing) and Bimang - 12-14 km
Bimtang to Dharapani - 15-20 km
Dharapani to Besisahar 12-20 km

Total Distance: It takes 12-14 days to complete the trek depending on your route and starting/ending points. The total distance covered during the trek is about 150-180 km (93-112 miles). The trek duration includes acclimatization, crossing the pass, and trekking through the Manaslu Conservation Area, with rest days at key points like Samagaon and Samdo.

Larkya La Pass Trek Cost

The cost for the Larkya La Pass can vary depending on various factors such as your choice of trekking package, accommodation preferences, travel style, and whether you’re trekking with a guided tour. Nepal Government has mandated that trekkers must have a guide or porter when trekking in the Manaslu Region (including Larkya La Pass). Therefore, trekking without a guide is no longer allowed. Below is a general breakdown of the cost for Larkya La Pass:

Cost for Guided Larkya La Pass Trek:

Transportation:

Kathmandu to Arughat (by bus): Around USD 10-15
Return from Besisahar/Dharapani to Kathmandu (by bus): Around USD 10-15

Accommodation and Meals:

Tea houses: Around USD 5-10 per night for a room.
Meals: Around USD 15-25 per day for 3 meals.

Guide and Porter:

Guide: Around USD 25-30 per day.
Porter: Around USD 15-20 per day (optional).
The full cost for the trek (permits, transportation, guide, porter, accommodation, and food) is around USD 1,200-1,500 for the 12-14 day trek.

What to Pack for Larkya La Pass Trek?

Packing for the Larkya La Pass trek is one of the most crucial aspects to ensure a comfortable and successful journey. You should focus on packing only the essential gears for Larkya La Pass trek, avoiding unnecessary weight. Carrying light weight will make your trek easier and more enjoyable. Let's get to know more about necessities and essentials:

Clothing:

Thermal tops and bottoms for base layers
Fleece or down jacket for warmth
Waterproof and windproof jackets and pants
Lightweight windproof as well as waterproof trekking pants
Insulated and windproof gloves
Warm hat for cold weather
Footwear like waterproof trekking shoes and sandals

Gear:

Trekking Bag up to 30-40 litres
Sleeping Bag
First-aid kit
Trekking stick
Water bottles
Powerbank and multiple batteries
Flashlight/Headlight
Sunglasses to protect from uv rays of sun

Personal Items:

Toiletries includes toothpaste,toothbrush,soap,shampoo,wet wipes etc
Camera/Smartphone
Quick Dry or lightweight towel
Sunscreen
Lip balm
Travel documents include passport, permits and insurance
Cash for donations in tea shops

Food and snacks:

Energy bars, energy supplements, electrolyte tablets

Optional Items:

Earphones
Gaiters

Acclimatisation Tips for Larkya La Pass Trek:

Climb high, sleep low - Ascend during the day, but sleep at lower altitudes.
Take rest days - Rests at Samagaon to adjust.
Drink plenty of water - At least 3-4 liters a day.
Eat well - High-energy foods to maintain strength.
Go slow - Trek at a steady, easy pace.
Listen to your body - Rest if feeling dizzy or unwell.
Consider Diamox - Consult a doctor for altitude sickness prevention.
Sleep higher - Spend the night at Samdo or Larkya Phedi before the pass.

Larkya La Pass Safety Tips and Advices

Here are some safety tips and advice for the Larkya La Pass trek:

Acclimatize Properly: Always listen to your body and ascend slowly. Spend extra days at higher altitudes to avoid altitude sickness.
Eat balanced diet food: Eat food which contains carbohydrates, fibre and energy giving food to strengthen your energy level.
Stay hydrated: Always drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated which helps to avoid altitude sickness.
Layering of clothes: Layering of clothes helps to keep your body warm and there’ll be less chances of getting cold which may decrease the pace of the trek.
Carry first aid kit: Carry essential items like bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, altitude sickness medication and personal medications you may need.
Know the trail: Pay attention to trail markers, and don’t stray off the marked path, as some areas can be dangerous.
Stay Informed About Local Conditions: Local authorities or trekking agencies may have updated information about trail conditions, weather, or any potential hazards (e.g., rockslides or avalanches).

Conclusion

Larkya La Pass is a key route on the Manaslu Circuit Trek, standing as the highest and one of the most challenging parts of the journey. The breathtaking views from the pass, including panoramas of snow-capped peaks such as Mt. Manaslu, Himlung Himal, and other surroundings make the effort worthwhile. However, the difficult trails and unpredictable weather conditions demands trekkers well-prepared for the challenges.

This Larkya La Pass guide helps you to make the most memorable journey you’ll ever have, therefore enjoy every moment with the scenic beauty of the Himalayas. The trails are for all levels, from mountain paths to peaceful valley walks. Enjoy every spectacular view of remote valleys and rich Tibetan cultures. Whether you want to connect with nature or learn cultural traditions, Manaslu circuit trek via Larkya la pass offers an unforgettable trek.

To book for your trek contact us or you can visit our website Unique Adventure Holidays!