MANASLU CIRCUIT TREK WITH LARKYA LA PASS

The Manaslu Larkya La Pass Trek is a challenging and rewarding trekking adventure located in the Manaslu Conservation Area of Nepal. It takes you through diverse landscapes, and remote villages, and offers stunning views of the majestic Manaslu Peak, the eighth-highest mountain in the world. This trek is an excellent alternative to the popular Annapurna Circuit Trek and provides a more off-the-beaten-path experience for adventure seekers.

A Journey Through Time and Terrain:

The Trek typically commences in the town of Soti Khola, marking the ascent into the Manaslu region. The meticulously maintained trail unfurls alongside the Budhi Gandaki River, traversing lush forests teeming with avian life. Keep an eye out for pheasants and colorful danphe birds flitting through the foliage. The path then cuts through meticulously sculpted terraced fields, a testament to the ingenuity and hard work of the local people. As you reach traditional villages inhabited by warm and welcoming people of Tibetan descent, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in their rich culture. Perhaps you’ll be invited to a cup of yak butter tea in a local teahouse, a chance to experience their way of life firsthand.

Gradual Ascent and Cultural Delights:

As you venture deeper, the landscape undergoes a dramatic transformation, revealing a majestic tapestry of snow-capped peaks, and plunging gorges that echo with the roar of cascading waterfalls. The meticulously designed path steadily climbs in elevation, leading you to charming villages like Jagat, Deng, Namrung, and Samagaun. These havens offer traditional teahouses, ideal for rest and rejuvenation, where you can savor local delicacies like dal bhat, a hearty lentil soup and rice dish. In the evenings, you might be treated to cultural performances showcasing the vibrant music and dance traditions of the region.

Conquering the High Point: Larkya La Pass:

The crowning achievement of the Manaslu Larkya La Pass Trek is undoubtedly the crossing of the Larkya La Pass itself. Towering at an impressive 5,160 meters (16,929 feet), the pass presents a demanding ascent. The switchbacks can be steep and require a good level of physical fitness, but the unparalleled vistas encompassing Manaslu, Himlung Himal, and Cheo Himal serve as a truly magnificent reward. It’s crucial to note that tackling this challenge necessitates proper acclimatization, allowing your body to adjust to the thin air at high altitudes. Your experienced guide will be instrumental in ensuring a safe and enjoyable passage over the pass.

Descent into a Diverse Landscape:

Having conquered the pass, the trail descends into the Marshyangdi Valley, a realm of captivating landscapes entirely different from what you’ve encountered so far. Here, you’ll find picturesque meadows flourishing in the alpine zone, bursting with wildflowers during the spring and summer months. Dense forests teeming with life give way to dramatic gorges carved by the Marshyangdi River. Vivid Buddhist monasteries perched on hillsides and prayer flags adorning the windswept terrain add to the mystical charm. You may even come across yak herders tending their animals amidst these high-altitude pastures, their way of life unchanged for centuries.

when is the best Season for the Manaslu circuit trek with Larkya la Pass?

The best time for the Manaslu Larkya La Pass Trek depends on the weather and trail conditions in the Manaslu region. Generally, the two primary trekking seasons in the Manaslu region are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).

Spring Season | March to May:

This is considered the best time to trek the Manaslu region, including the Manaslu Larkya La Pass trek. The weather during spring is generally stable, with clear skies, mild temperatures, and blooming rhododendron forests. However, it is also a popular season, so expect more trekkers on the trails.

Autumn Season | September to November:

Another ideal time for the Manaslu Larkya La Pass trek is during autumn. The weather is generally stable, with clear views of the mountains and comfortable temperatures during the day. The trails are less crowded compared to the spring season, providing a quieter trekking experience.

Both of these seasons offer stunning views of the mountains, including Annapurna, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu mountain, and favorable weather conditions for trekking. It’s important to note that the Larkya La Pass trek, can be challenging and may have snow or ice, so it’s crucial to have appropriate trekking experience, equipment, and a knowledgeable guide.

Manaslu Larkya La Pass (5,160M)

Duration:

The typical duration for the Manaslu Larkya La Pass Trek is 14-16 days. This includes trekking and acclimatization days and allows for a gradual ascent to the Larkya La Pass and back. The duration can vary depending on the specific itinerary, the pace of the trekker, and the time allocated for rest and acclimatization.

Distance:

The total distance covered during the Manaslu Larkya La Pass Trek is approximately 170 kilometers (105 miles). The exact distance can vary depending on the specific route taken, any side trips or detours included, and the starting and ending points of the trek.

Walking Hours:

On average, you can expect to walk 6-8 hours daily during the trek. The walking hours can vary depending on factors such as the terrain, altitude gain, weather conditions, and the fitness level of the trekker. Some days may involve shorter walks, while others may require longer hours of trekking, especially during the ascent and descent of Larkya La Pass.

Difficulty:

The Manaslu Larkya La Pass Trek is considered a challenging trek that requires a good level of physical fitness, as well as experience in high-altitude trekking. The trail involves steep ascents and descents, crossing high mountain passes, and walking on rugged and remote terrain. The trek also requires proper acclimatization due to the high altitude, as the maximum elevation reaches around 5,160 meters (16,930 feet) at Larkya La Pass.