Manaslu Rupina-La Pass

Manaslu Rupina-La Pass

  •   Nepal
  •   Trekking
  •   Moderate
  •   12 Days
  •   4,720m

Manaslu Rupina-La Pass
  • Manaslu Rupina-La Pass

The Manaslu Rupina-La Pass Trek is a thrilling and less-traveled alternative to the classic Manaslu Circuit, offering adventurous trekkers a challenging high-altitude experience combined with breathtaking Himalayan scenery. Situated at 4,720 meters, Rupina-La Pass serves as a historic trade route between the Manaslu and Annapurna regions, featuring steep ascents, rugged trails, and dramatic landscapes. Trekkers are rewarded with panoramic views of Manaslu (8,163m)Himalchuli (7,893m), and Ngadi Chuli (7,871m), while traversing remote villages, ancient monasteries, and pristine alpine meadows. The route’s raw, untamed beauty and cultural richness—passing through Tibetan-influenced settlements like Lho, Samagaon, and Samdo—make it a perfect choice for those seeking solitude and an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Unlike the more frequented Larkya La Pass, Rupina-La demands technical skill and stamina, with narrow ridges, loose scree slopes, and unpredictable weather adding to the challenge. The trek typically starts in Soti Khola and follows the Budhi Gandaki Valley before diverging toward the high pass, requiring acclimatization days in Samagaon (3,530m). Due to its difficulty, this route is best suited for experienced trekkers with prior high-altitude exposure. Crossing Rupina-La also provides a unique cultural immersion, as the trail winds through traditional Nubri and Tsum Valley communities, where ancient Buddhist practices and warm local hospitality endure. For those willing to take on the adventure, Rupina-La Pass delivers an unforgettable journey through one of Nepal’s most spectacular and untouched Himalayan landscapes.

Trip Facts

  • Activities

    Trekking

  • Starting Price

    USD$ 990/PP

  • Accommodation

    Tea House / Lodge

  • Max. Altitude

    4,720m

  • Best Season

    Moderate

  • Trip Hours/Day

    5 - 6 Hours

  • Trip Grade

    Moderate

  • Group Size

    2 - 10

Highlights & Attractions

  • Trip Itinerary
  • Include & Excludes
  • Trip Notes
  • Reviews

Trip Itinerary

  • Day 01: Drive Kathmandu → Soti Khola (730m) – 7–8hrs
    Scenic drive through Dhading Besi, following the Trishuli and Budhi Gandaki rivers.
    Overnight in Soti Khola (teahouse)..
  • Day 02: Trek to Machha Khola (890m) – 6hrs
    Cross suspension bridges and waterfalls. .
    Pass Gurung villages like Lapubesi. .
    Overnight in Machha Khola..
  • Day 03: Trek to Jagat (1,340m) – 6hrs
    Enter Manaslu Conservation Area (permit check)..
    Tibetan-style architecture appears..
    Overnight in Jagat..
  • Day 04: Trek to Deng (1,860m) – 5hrs
    Trail through pine forests and canyon cliffs..
    Buddhist chortens and mani walls mark the path. .
    Overnight in Deng..
  • Day 05: Trek to Namrung (2,630m) – 6hrs
    Ascend through rhododendron forests..
    First views of Manaslu and Himalchuli..
    Overnight in Namrung..
  • Day 06: Trek to Lho (3,180m) – 4hrs
    Visit Ribung Gompa (ancient monastery)..
    Stunning vistas of Manaslu’s north face. .
    Overnight in Lho..
  • Day 07: Trek to Samagaon (3,530m) – 4hrs
    Explore Pungyen Gompa and Birendra Tal (glacial lake)..
    Acclimatization day next..
  • Day 08: Acclimatization in Samagaon
    Optional hike to Manaslu Base Camp (4,400m)..
    Overnight in Samagaon..
  • Day 09: Trek to Samdo (3,860m) – 3hrs
    Short hike with panoramic mountain views..
    Overnight in Samdo..
  • Day 10: Cross Rupina-La Pass (4,720m) → Dharmasala (4,460m) – 8–9hrs
    Challenge day: Steep ascent/descent with loose scree..
    Reward: 360° views of Himalchuli, Ngadi Chuli, and Annapurna II..
    Overnight in basic teahouse..
  • Day 11: Trek to Bimthang (3,590m) – 5hrs
    Descend through alpine meadows and yak pastures. .
    Overnight in Bimthang.
  • Day 12: Trek to Dharapani (1,860m) → Drive to Besi Sahar/Kathmandu
    Rejoin Annapurna Circuit trail..
    Drive to Kathmandu (6–7hrs) or stay overnight in Besi Sahar..

Package Includes

  • Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
  • Full Board on Trek: 3 meals daily (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • First Aid Kit (oxygen meter, basic medications)
  • Porter (1 porter per 2 trekkers, max 15kg/porter)
  • Experienced Trek Guide (licensed, English-speaking)

Package Excludes

  • Nepal Visa ($30-50 depending on duration)
  • Travel Insurance (mandatory; must cover altitude up to 3,000m + evacuation)
  • Early Termination: Extra transport/hotel if leaving trek early
  • Kathmandu Sightseeing (entrance fees for UNESCO sites ~$20-30)

Trip Notes

Reviews

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