Experience the Thrill of a Rupina La Camping Trip in Nepal

8 Nov 2024 Chandra Gurung

Camping with friends and family is always fun, but have you ever considered camping at one of Nepal’s most isolated and beautiful places, the Rupina La in Manaslu? Unlike any other camping experience you’ve ever had, the Rupina La experience will be worth all the effort.

Officially declared one of the most difficult passes to cross in the Manaslu region, the Rupina La has fewer visitors than the other paths. But you deserve a great camping experience. Camping in this region will require a lot of preparation and effort beforehand, but if done right, it will be one you will never forget.

Consulting local authorities and experienced guides before planning a camp there is important. Because mountains are so unpredictable, especially with the weather, you must think about the consequences.

Having a camp counselor can be your saviour. Manaslu Guide is here to explain to you everything about this camp so you know what to do and what not to do to make it a fun and memorable one.

Table of Contents

Where is Rupina La Pass?

The name Rupina La often pops up when we’re discussing the Manaslu Trek. At a height of 4610 meters above sea level which is in the lower region of Gorkha district this pass is one of the toughest routes of Manaslu trek.

You might be wondering why is it hard even if it’s not at a great height. That’s because the routes are extremely difficult and the weather can be quite challenging. Most of us are not acclimatized to this dynamic weather which can affect our health during the trek.

Once a forbidden secret, the pass was opened for trekkers in 1991 AD. Only some have been able to successfully pass through this route to Manaslu. As hard as it is, the mountains, lush valleys, mesmerizing landscapes, and wildlife make this area irresistible.

Legends and Cultural Significance of Rupina La

There’s a popular legend as to how Rupina La got its name from. Legends say that once there was a shepherdess named Rupina in the region and she vanished while grazing her sheep. Since then, in her memory, the land has been called Rupina La which is still popular today.

The local cultures around the region believe that there are mountain spirits or deities who guide the passes and peaks. They often conduct poojas (prayers) and offerings to please the higher spirits to ensure the protection of the region and a safe journey for travellers.

Also, some legends say that there are hidden treasures in the deeper parts of the mountains. They believe that the mythical creatures or spirits are taking care of them. Rupina La Pass is also considered very sacred which is a perfect spot for meditation and learning spiritual practices. Locals and even some travellers believe that these heights bring spiritual enlightenment.

Camping at Rupina La

Unfortunately, many don’t recommend camping at Rupina La due to its volatile weather conditions and great heights. But with the right amount of guidance and equipment, you can have a safe and enjoyable camp. Here are some of the tips that you must strictly follow:

1. Permits

First of all, to begin the trek to Manaslu, you require a special entry permit from the government of Nepal. Make sure you submit all your required documents to get these permits from the Nepal Government through a licensed agency:

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP)
Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card

2. Local Guide

The Manaslu trek isn’t an easy one. You will be completely unaware of the trails, weather conditions and potential challenges that may arise during the trek. So, a guide who knows it all will guide you through the best routes and help you avoid potential dangers.

Here are some other things a guide might be helpful for:

They can help you understand the local culture, history, and traditions of the region.
In case of any emergency, which is common in Manaslu, they can provide you with emergency assistance.
If you don’t know the Nepali language, they can help you communicate with local people.

3. Check weather conditions

As you climb higher, the weather in the mountains becomes more volatile. One minute you’re enjoying a sunny sky and the next, it can go cloudy really fast. Bad weather can ruin your camping experience along with some severe damage to you.

Before going camping, invest some time in learning about the weather forecast. Avoid monsoons at all costs and camping in winter is impossible. So when is the right time to camp? Here is the answer:

Pre-monsoon (March-May)

These months normally have a clear and calm atmosphere with mild temperatures which is super important for trekking and camping. Also, the weather and views will be very cooperative.

Post-monsoon (September-November)

After the monsoon is gone, it adds extra beauty and greenery to the surroundings. The skies are normally stable and calm with good visibility.

4. Camping equipment

Now, camping in Rupina La is not like your typical camping: it involves a lot more precaution and care. If you don’t take your trekking and camping equipment, you going to be in a large number of problems. This is what you cannot forget to take with you to Rupina La:

Clothing:

Base layers, insulation layers, and outer layers: Clothing should be your priority during such adventures. Take merino wool or synthetic base layers to stay warm and moisture-free. Add an extra layer of a fleece jacket and down jacket and you’re all warm and cosy in the harsh cold. Durable and comfortable waterproof and windproof jackets and pants are necessary.

Trekking shoes: To get away from all the pain and blisters, get yourself a pair of comfortable trekking shoes that have a good grip.

Others: Warm, moisture-wicking socks hats, and gloves will help you prevent cold.

Camping Gear

Tent: Camping requires you to spend the night in a tent. And not just any tent will do. So, a four-season tent that can tackle strong winds and even heavy snowfall is what you need.

Sleeping bag and sleeping pad: You will not have any bed at the camping site, so take a warm sleeping bag and an insulated sleeping pad for additional warmth and comfort layer. Self-inflating or foam pads are the best for this purpose.

Headlight: A reliable headlamp that will give you visibility during nighttime.

Other necessities

Backpack: A durable backpack to carry all your necessary items.

Water bottle and purification tablets: You need a bottle to drink water. Even if the water appears clear, take purification tablets to treat any water you get around Rupina La.

First-Aid kit: Keep a first-aid kit with all the required medicines.

Trekking poles: They can be your savior through this journey providing support and balance.

Food items: While camping, you will be required to prepare your food. You can not carry a lot of items so decide what you want to eat and how to prepare it. You may carry a portable stove as well. Also, carry some snacks and protein bars for quick energy.

Sunglasses and sunscreen: Protect your skin & eyes from the harmful rays of the sun. As you ascend, you become more susceptible to the sun’s UV rays. Therefore, always have a pair of sunglasses and sunscreen on hand to apply your whole face and body.

Personal hygiene items: Things like toothbrushes, toothpaste soap, and whatnot

Map and compass: The tracks are too tricky in Rupila La so you better carry a proper map with a compass for navigating purposes.

Do I need a camp counsellor at Rupina La Pass Camping?

We recommend having a camp counsellor for a safe and fun camping experience, especially in one of the toughest and most remote places like Rupina La. Here are some reasons why they matter:

1. Safety: Rupina La is undoubtedly one of the most difficult treks and might be full of potential dangers like extreme weather, illnesses, or injuries. Camp counsellors can administer first aid and provide immediate help during emergencies.

2. Guidance and support: . The counselors are there to guide, support, and encourage you in all things camping.

3. Activity leadership: Camping is no fun without some games or outdoor activities. These counsellors plan and lead various games, sports, barbecues, etc. They will try and ensure that all the campers are having a lot of fun.

4. Emergency preparedness: The counsellors will respond to emergencies like storms or any other medical emergencies.

Conclusion

Rupina La Pass Camping will be a thrilling experience if done correctly. Unlike any other camping experience, Rupina La is a hard one but if you are well prepared and have all the necessary equipment, it will be a camping experience to remember.

Know that you have various things to keep in mind before and during the camping and weather is one of them. So, choose a favorable weather condition, pack all the necessary stuff that we mentioned above, hire a camp counsellor if possible, and have the best camping experience of your life at Rupina La.

In case of any keenness about the Rupina La Pass camping, do not hesitate to contact Manaslu Guide. We will help you with everything possible.

FAQs

1. Why should we avoid camping at Rupina La Pass in monsoon?

Ans: We strongly recommend avoiding camping or trekking during the monsoon because you never know what nature has in the cards. The trails can be very slippery and muddy and there is a high chance of you slipping or even falling.

Also. heavy rainfall can cause floods and landslides, blocking the trails and making the experience very dangerous. Clouds and fog will cover the entire mountains and hills and you won’t get any views.

2. Is winter okay for camping at Rupina La?

Ans: No. Winter is a terrible time for camping at Rupina La. The trails are all snowy and slippery. The weather gets extremely cold and you won’t get a clear view of any of the surroundings. There is no fun in camping at such a risky place in winter.