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Rupina La Pass Trek Highlights
- Moderately hard trekking trail embedded in the Himalayas lasting medium period with some challenging sections with adventure.
- Small Himalayan passes topped with the high Rupina La pass (4720 m) in the trail.
- Tsum and Gurung culture, tradition, religion, and lifestyle of the Manaslu region.
- Trekking in some of the most rural areas in the Himalayas.
- Fantastic view of the Manaslu and surrounding small and significant Mountain ranges.
- Rare wildlife and vegetation, showcasing of the Alpine, Sub-alpine and sub-tropical climatic regions.
- Beautiful Buddhist monasteries, chortens and mani walls reflecting architecture and art.
- Magical sunrise and sunset views of the scenic landscape of the Himalayas.
- Lower Himalayan and hill cuisine with Yak and Chauri dairy products.
- Authentic trek experience in the lesser traveled trails exploring hill and mountain villages, culture, and, terraced farmlands of Manaslu region.
Rupina La Pass Trek Overview
Rupina La Pass Trek is an extraordinary adventure that takes you through one of Nepal’s most secluded and pristine trekking routes, nestled in the Manaslu region of the Gorkha district. Officially opened to tourists in 1991 AD, this trek offers a rare blend of untouched wilderness, cultural richness, and the thrill of navigating an off-the-beaten-path trail with Manaslu Larkya Pass.
Starting with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Gyampesal via Gorkha Bazaar. Trek weaves through historical Gurung settlements like Barpak Village, vibrant forests, and picturesque viewpoints such as Mumche Hills.
It leads you through Humche Pokhari, Gai Kharka, and Rupina La Phedi. Before crossing the challenging Rupina La Pass at 4,720 meters. Along the way, trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking views of Himalayan giants, including Mt. Manaslu, Baudha Himal, Himal Chuli, Siringi Himal, Ganesh Himal ranges, and even glimpses of the Annapurna range.
However, Rupina La Pass Trek is a hidden gem for those seeking solitude and adventure. And offering serene landscapes, turbulent river gorges, pristine glacial lakes, and cascading waterfalls. It traverses diverse terrains, from dense rhododendron forests blooming in spring to rugged high-altitude trails. Therefore, the route also provides opportunities to encounter rare Himalayan flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
The Rupina La Pass Trek is not just about natural beauty; it also immerses you in the cultural tapestry of Nepal. Trekkers interact with Gurung, and Lama communities, witnessing their traditions, dances, and vibrant attire. Spiritual landmarks like ancient Buddhist monasteries and prayer flag-adorned chortens add a deeply enriching cultural layer to the journey.
According to local tales from the villages of Larpak and Barpak, the Rupina La Pass derives. Its name is from a shepherdess named Rupina. Long ago, while tending her sheep in the area, she mysteriously disappeared, leaving a legacy that lent her name to the past.
In other words, A fully tented camping trek, Rupina La Pass offers an authentic wilderness experience. Comfort of teahouses, trekkers enjoy well-organized campsites with twin-sharing tents, delicious hot meals, and warm hospitality that experienced staff and porters provide. This self-sufficient trekking approach enhances the sense of adventure while ensuring comfort in the wild.
The best seasons to embark on this trek are spring (March-May). When the forests are vibrant with blooming rhododendrons. And autumn (late September-November), offering clear skies and panoramic mountain vistas.
In conclusion, The Rupina La Pass Trek is perfect for experienced trekkers seeking an unfiltered adventure filled with stunning mountain scenery, diverse cultural encounters, and the thrill of conquering a high-altitude pass. Its natural beauty, artistic depth, and rugged terrain make it one of Nepal’s most captivating and rewarding trekking experiences. Ready to explore this hidden gem? Let us guide you through the adventure of a lifetime!
Links:-
Annapurna Trek Everest Trek Peak Climbing Langtang Trek Tour in Nepal
Outline itinerary
30M drive Hotel
B Hotel
6-7 Hours Drive B+L+D Lodge
B+L+D Lodge
6-7 Hours Walk B+L+D Tent
6-7 Hours Walk B+L+D Tent
2-3 Hours Walk B+L+D Tent
7-8 Hours Walk B+L+D Tent
6-7 Hours Walk B+L+D Tent
6-7 Hours Walk B+L+D Tent
4-5 Hours Walk B+L+D Tent/Lodge
3-4 Hours Walk B+L+D Lodge
4-5 hrs B+L+D Lodge
5-6 hrs B+L+D Lodge
6-7 hrs B+L+D Lodge
6-7 hrs B+L+D Lodge
5-6 hrs B+L+D Lodge
5-6 hrs B+L+D Lodge
6-7 hrs B+L+D Lodge
B+L+D Lodge
10 -11 Hours Drive. B+L
What's included?
- International airport pick up and drop service.
- 2 Nights hotel in Kathmandu before trek on BB Plan.
- Public bus from Kathmandu to Barpak.
- Tilche to Besisahar by public Jeep.
- Deluxe bus Besishahar to Kathmandu.
- Drop by the hotel in Kathmandu.
- Full board meal on trek, Tea /Coffee or hot chocolate (all prepared by our well-trained cook).
- Lodge accommodation on the trek/tent (provide a sleeping tent, dining, and toilet tent).
- An experienced guide( Including his salary, equipment, insurance, ground transporatiation, lodging, and food)
- Cook, Sherpa, Spare, and Porters (carry luggage and food and including their salary, equipment, insurance, lodging, and food)
- Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
- Manaslu Special Permit.
- Tsum Nupri Local Government Tax.
- Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP)
- All Government taxes.
- Trekking and city map.
- First aid kit.
- Some fresh and dry fruits during the trek.
- Token of love from the office.
- Farewell lunch/dinner.
What's not included?
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu.
- Travel insurance.
- Cold drinks such as; Coke, Mineral Water, Beer etc.
- Personal expenses (laundry, telephone, battery charge and some donation).
- Own your trekking gears.
- Tips for all staff.
Daily itinerary
30M drive Hotel
After landing in the Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA), our representative will approach you. After a brief introduction, take a lovely drive to your hotel. We will also have a short trek orientation session of Manaslu. Take an evening walk around markets in Thamel. Try a traditional Nepali cuisine for your dinner and rest for the day. Overnight at a hotel in Thamel.
B Hotel
After breakfast, our day will be divided into the cultural tour and trek preparation today. Meet your guides for the trek and prepare the gear and items of equipment for the Rupina La Pass and the Manaslu Circuit Trek. Drive to the heritage and religious sites near the hotel and explore them. Return to your hotel and rest for the day here. Overnight at a hotel in Thamel.
6-7 Hours Drive B+L+D Lodge
You will start early today and head towards the village of Barpak. We will catch the public bus from New Bus Park. We will advance to the Gurung village of Barpak. Barpak is one of the region's most significant British gurkhas place in mountain but there are mostly huge building of houses after earthquick. In the evening head out of the tour of Barpak and rest for the day. Overnight at a lodge in Barpak.
B+L+D Lodge
Barpak is a settlement on top of the hill with settlers mostly of Ghale and Gurung people. As the epicenter of the massive earthquake of 2015, Barpak has recovered quite well from the Devastation now. Most of the people in the village are serving or ex-military and the famous Gurkha regiment. The houses here are stone patched, and the reconstructed ones are well built with modern equipment here. You can do some of the nearby short hikes today and experience the local lifestyle in Barpak. Overnight at a lodge in Barpak village.
6-7 Hours Walk B+L+D Tent
After a restful night in Barpak village, we begin our journey to Gai Kharka. The trail ascends steeply through stone stairs leading to Mumche Hills. Along the way to Gai kharka trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking views of Himalayan giants, including Mt. Manaslu, Baudha Himal, Himal Chuli, Siringi Himal, Ganesh Himal ranges, and even glimpses of the Annapurna range. It continues passing through dense forests and serene, quiet landscapes. After a challenging 6-7 hours of trekking, we reach Gai Kharka, a peaceful campsite amidst nature.
6-7 Hours Walk B+L+D Tent
The day begins with a stunning sunrise, offering clear views of Barpak village and the Gupsi Pakha settlement. The trail winds through lush pastures for goats, buffaloes, and cows, and is adorned with bamboo groves. This section features more frequent ascents and descents than the previous day, keeping trekkers engaged. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of the Baudha Himal. After a break at Rushi Kharka for lunch, we continue for 2-3 hours to reach Mircha Kharka, our next campsite.
2-3 Hours Walk B+L+D Tent
Today’s trek is short and relatively easy. After about 2-3 hours of walking, we arrive at Rupina La Base Camp. After lunch, an optional acclimatization hike towards Rupina La Top is recommended. This helps prepare your body for the high-altitude crossing ahead. Enjoy an early dinner to ensure a good night’s rest and an early start the next day.
7-8 Hours Walk B+L+D Tent
We start early, climbing steadily along switchback trails. Witness a breathtaking sunrise over the valley below and the smells of Rhododendron anthopogon (locally known as Sunpati; High altitude juniper) fill the air. This fragrant shrub, traditionally used in rituals, thrives in the Himalayan highlands. Reaching the Rupina La Pass, marked by colorful prayer flags and a signboard, offers mesmerizing views of Baudha Himal and other snow-capped peaks. The descent is rocky but rewarding, leading us to Baudha Himal Base Camp for the night.
6-7 Hours Walk B+L+D Tent
After a warm breakfast, we set off with Mt. Manaslu’s majestic peak to our right and the towering Baudha Himal ahead. The trail passes through cow pastures and forests, crossing wooden bridges over the Baudha Himal River and glacier. After a lunch break at a scenic spot, we descend for about 2-2.5 hours to reach Jong Kharka, also known as Jongchet. Here, we camp overnight amidst natural beauty.
6-7 Hours Walk B+L+D Tent
Today’s trek includes a mix of ascents and descents through expansive grasslands and dense forests. The trail passes an emergency shelter before splitting; we take the left path towards Sherang. Along the way, we cross several wooden bridges and navigate bamboo forests. The day ends at Sherang
4-5 Hours Walk B+L+D Tent/Lodge
After breakfast, we begin our journey to Nyak Village. The trail leads through forests and pastures, with a steady uphill climb before descending into the village. Upon arrival, explore Nyak Village and its ancient Buddhist monastery, gaining insight into the local culture and religious traditions.
3-4 Hours Walk B+L+D Lodge
This day’s trek is relatively easy, following downhill path to Pewa. Before reaching Pewa, we join the main Manaslu Circuit Trek route. The trail continues along the left bank of the Budhi Gandaki River, leading us to Deng. Use your free time to relax and enjoy a refreshing hot shower, a welcome luxury after days on the trail.
4-5 hrs B+L+D Lodge
5-6 hrs B+L+D Lodge
6-7 hrs B+L+D Lodge
6-7 hrs B+L+D Lodge
5-6 hrs B+L+D Lodge
5-6 hrs B+L+D Lodge
6-7 hrs B+L+D Lodge
B+L+D Lodge
10 -11 Hours Drive. B+L
Fixed Departures
| Start Date | End Date | Price (USD) | Availability | Booking |
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Trip Reviews
Based on 1 Reviews Reviews
Pierangelo Bazzoni
Italy
Best Rupina La Pass Trek 2024
Good morning to all travelers who adore the Himalayan mountains. As a couple from Italy, we would like to share this amazing 24-day trek experience in Rupina La Pass, Tsum Valley, and the Manaslu circuit. A wonderful team of porters and guides helped us during this lengthy journey. We slept in tents in the Rupina Valley because there are no guest houses in this isolated area. Nine outstanding porters were present. We stayed at the guest house for the Tsum Valley and Manaslu circuit.
We would like to state that the Himalaya Guide Nepal Pvt. Ltd. agency arranged this trek in a very serious and professional manner. We are grateful to the owner, Mr. Chendra, for providing us with a team of serious professionals.
Sincere gratitude to Denish and Chandra, and you have porters.
You should know
Remote and Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure
- One of Nepal's less-traveled routes, offering solitude and pristine natural beauty.
- It is ideal for adventurers seeking a unique trekking experience away from crowded trails.
Stunning Mountain Scenery
- Breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m), Mt. Himalchuli, Baudha Himal and Ganesh Himal ranges, Chamar, Rani Peak, and also Annapurna range.
- Panoramic landscapes feature snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and high-altitude terrains.
Diverse Landscapes
- Varied terrain, including dense forests, rocky paths, glaciers, glacial moraines, and traditional villages.
- Rich biodiversity with chances to encounter rare Himalayan flora and fauna.
Challenging Rupinala Pass (4,720 m)
- A Camping trek that is a key highlight, offering adventure and rewarding views.
- Requires good physical fitness and acclimatization.
Cultural Richness
- Explore Gurung and Tibetan-influenced villages, experiencing their traditions, lifestyle, and warm hospitality.
- Buddhist monasteries and prayer flags add a spiritual element to the journey.
Camping Experience
- Fully tented camping trek, providing an authentic wilderness experience.
- Trekking in remote areas where teahouses are unavailable makes it a raw adventure.
Hidden Gem
- Known as a hidden gem in the lower Manaslu region, offering unspoiled beauty and serenity.
- Ideal for trekkers who enjoy isolation and pristine nature.
Seasonal Best Time
- Spring (March-May): Rhododendron forests in full bloom.
- Autumn (End of September-November): Clear skies and pleasant weather.
Accessibility
- Starting point often at Barpak or nearby villages, requiring a drive from Kathmandu.
- Ends near the Manaslu Circuit Trek trail, connecting to other trekking destinations if desired.
Adventure and Exploration
- Requires experienced guides due to remote locations and unpredictable weather.
- Appeals to trekkers seeking challenges and unparalleled natural beauty.