The Rupina La Manaslu Circuit Trek is a mesmerizing journey through the pristine Himalayas of Nepal. This off-the-beaten-path trek combines the allure of the renowned Manaslu Circuit with the lesser-known Rupina La Pass, offering trekkers a unique and rewarding experience. Starting in the picturesque village of Soti Khola, the trail winds its way through lush forests, terraced fields, and traditional villages, allowing trekkers to immerse themselves in the rich local culture. As you ascend, the scenery transforms, treating you to breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, including the majestic Mt. Manaslu, the eighth highest mountain in the world. The real highlight of the trek comes as you cross the Rupina La Pass, standing at an impressive altitude of 4,720 meters. The challenging yet exhilarating pass rewards trekkers with unparalleled vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys. This relatively untouched region showcases the raw beauty of the Himalayas, providing a true sense of adventure. Throughout the trek, encounters with warm and hospitable locals add a touch of authenticity to the journey. The region’s unique blend of Tibetan and Nepali culture is evident in their traditional villages, monasteries, and warm smiles.
The Rupina La Manaslu Circuit Trek demands a moderate level of fitness and previous trekking experience, making it a suitable choice for both seasoned adventurers and those seeking to push their limits. The trek typically takes around 16 to 18 days to complete, and each day brings new wonders and challenges. With limited trekking traffic compared to more popular routes, the Rupina La Manaslu Circuit Trek offers a sense of seclusion and tranquility that is becoming increasingly rare in the Himalayas. If you are looking for an unforgettable Himalayan adventure that combines breathtaking landscapes, cultural immersion, and a dash of exploration, this trek is sure to leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Trip Overview
Kathmandu, Nepal
Kathmandu, Nepal
Lodging Level
3 Star Deluxe Hotel/KTM
Teahouses/Trekking
16 dinner, 18 breakfast, 16 lunch
Highly Demanding
4,643m
Lively culture, Village life, Mountains & Valleys, amazing landscape & more
Trekking and Hiking
Styles
Private Tours with Guide
Outline Itinerary
| Day | Activities | Maximum Altitude | Walking/Hiking Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day1 | Arrive in Kathmandu & transfer to Hotel | 1,350m | – |
| Day2 | Kathmandu city tour & trek preparation | 1,350m | – |
| Day3 | Drive to Barpak from Kathmandu | 2,000m | 6-7 hrs |
| Day4 | Trek to Gaikharka | 3,217m | 6-7 hrs |
| Day5 | Trek to Bhaisikharka | 2,960m | 5-6 hrs |
| Day6 | Trek to Rupina La Phedi | 3,760m | 6-7 hrs |
| Day7 | Trek to Rupina La Pass to Base camp | 4,643m | 6-7 hrs |
| Day8 | Trek from Base camp to Jarang to Zokbatang | 3,480m | 6-7 hrs |
| Day9 | Trek to Nyak | 2,390m | 5-6 hrs |
| Day10 | Trek to Vi Phedi | 1,990m | 6-7 hrs |
| Day11 | Trek from Vi Phedi to Lho | 3,180m | 6-7 hrs |
| Day12 | Trek to Samagaun | 3,520m | 5-6 hrs |
| Day13 | Exploration day; Pungyen Gumba/MBC | 3,520m | 5-6 hrs |
| Day14 | Trek from Samagaun to Samdo | 3,860m | 4-5 hrs |
| Day15 | Trek from Samdo to Dharmashala Via Larkya B.C | 4,460m | 4-5 hrs |
| Day16 | Trek from Dharmashala to Bimthang | 3,590m | 7-8 hrs |
| Day17 | Trek from Bimthang to Dharapani | 1,860m | 6-7 hrs |
| Day18 | Drive back to Kathmandu | 1,350m | 8-9 hrs |
| Day19 | Depart Kathmandu | – | – |
DETAILS ITINERARY:
Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu & transfer to Hotel (1,350m)
Upon your arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, our dedicated airport representative will warmly welcome with traditional Dhaka Khada and transfered to your hotel in (Check in at 1400 Hrs).
Reminder of the day is at leisure.
Overnight stay at Hotel in Kathmandu (No Meal)
Day 2: Kathmandu city tour & trek preparation (1,350m)
After breakfast, we’ll embark on a sightseeing tour around the Kathmandu Valley.
Pashupatinath Temple: Pashupatinath Temple is in Kathmandu. It’s dedicated to Lord Shiva. UNESCO lists it. It features pagoda-style architecture. It showcases intricate carvings. It stands by the Bagmati River. Daily rituals take place. Devotees frequent it.
Boudhanath Stupa: one of the world’s largest, draws visitors for its religious importance. Encircling the base are 108 niches with statues of the Dhyani Buddha Amitabha, symbolizing enlightenment stages. It holds significance for Tibetan Buddhists and locals alike.
Swayambhunath Stupa: This stupa is also known as the monkey temple by the tourists. The complex also has many other small stupas, Buddhist monasteries and Hindu temples. It also offers beautiful views of Kathmandu city.After the city tour, you’ll return to your hotel for the overnight stay.
Overnight stay at Hotel in kathmandu. (Includes: breakfast)
Day 3: Drive to Barpak from Kathmandu (2,000m /5-6 hrs)
After breakfast, we’ll drive to Gorkha bazar in a private jeep, approximately a 6-hour journey. Gorkha holds historical significance as the kingdom of the last ruler, King Prithivi Narayan Shah, with the Shah dynasty reigning here for 2009 years. Explore the durbar square and museum showcasing this rich history, and if interested, we can proceed with sightseeing before heading to Barpak Gurung village.
Overnight Stay at Barpak (Includes: breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Day 4: Trek to Gaikharka (3,217m / 6-7 hrs)
During our journey, we’ll be treated to breathtaking mountain vistas along with stunning landscapes, quaint villages, and lush rhododendron forests. After a few hours of trekking, we’ll arrive at our dinner spot before continuing our trek towards Gaikharka, where we’ll spend the night, soaking in the serenity of the surroundings.
Overnight Stay at Gaikharka (Includes: breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Day 5: Trek to Bhaisikharka (2,960m / 5-6 hrs)
As we depart from Gaikharka village, the trail ascends through rhododendron and oak forests. We’ll pause for lunch along the way, taking a well-deserved rest before continuing our journey towards Bhaisi Kharka, where we’ll spend the night, surrounded by the tranquility of nature.
Overnight Stay at Bhaisikharka (Includes: breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Day 6: Trek to Rupina La Phedi ( 3,760m/ 6-7 hrs)
Today’s trek is relatively shorter but still offers stunning views and a serene atmosphere. It takes about 5 to 6 hours to reach Rupina La Phedi from Bhaisi Kharka. Along the way, we’ll stop for lunch before continuing our leisurely pace towards Rupina La Phedi, where we’ll spend the night, surrounded by the beauty of the Himalayas.
Overnight Stay at Rupina La Phedi (Includes: breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Day 7: Trek to Rupina La Pass to Base camp (4,643m/ 6-7 hrs)
The trek leads us downhill to the base camp on the other side, where a small herder hut stands. We’ll cross two glaciers on our way to Jarang, followed by moderately flat trails leading to another picturesque campsite. Lunch will be served along the way as we continue our journey towards the Base Camp, where we’ll spend the night.
Overnight Stay at Base Camp (Includes: breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Day 8: Trek from Base camp to Jarang Via Zokbatang (3,480m /6-7 hrs)
Today, we’re in for a treat with the closest and most stunning views of the Himalayas. As we trek, we’ll be treated to breathtaking mountain vistas and beautiful landscapes. Our destination is Zokbatang, where we’ll spend the night, surrounded by the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas.
Overnight Stay at Zokbatang (Includes: breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Day 9: Trek to Nyak (2,390m/ 5-6 hrs)
We’ll trek along the left side of Chhilung Khola, passing through Gomna, Serang, and Nyak villages. After enjoying lunch en route, we’ll continue our leisurely journey towards Nyak, where we’ll spend the night, embracing the peaceful ambiance of the village.
Overnight Stay at Nyak (Includes: breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Day 10: Trek to Bihi Phedi (1,990m ./ 6-7 hrs)
After breakfast at our hotel in Nyak, we embark on our journey to Bihi Phedi early in the morning. Our trek takes us through enchanting Sal forests before ascending to a ridge overlooking the mighty rapids of the Budhi Gandaki river.
Overnight Stay at Bihi Phedi (Includes: breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Day 11: Trek from Bihi Phedi to Lho ( 3,180m / 6-7 hrs)
The narrow trail presents some minor ups and downs before eventually leading us across. We then proceed to Ghatta Khola and traverse a lengthy suspension bridge to reach Phillim. Crossing a sturdy metal bridge over the Budhi Gandaki, we continue our trek on the river’s western side.
Overnight Stay at Lho (Includes: breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Day 12: Trek to Samagaun (3,520m / 5-6 hrs)
Descending from the trail, we’ll cross the side valley of Simnang Himal, with the majestic Ganesh Himal always in sight. Along the way, we’ll have the opportunity to visit a local monastery and immerse ourselves in Tibetan culture. We’ll enjoy lunch en route as we gradually make our way to Samagaun, where we’ll spend the night.
Overnight Stay at Samagaun (Includes: breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Day 13: Exploration day in Samagaun and Hike Pungyen Gumba / MBC (3,520m/ 5-6 hrs)
Today is an acclimatization day as we adjust to the altitude of our trekking region. We’ll hike to Pungyen Gompa for views of the Manaslu Himal and spot some wildlife like Himalayan Thars and Yaks. Alternatively, we can trek to Manaslu Base Camp, taking it slow due to the high altitude. After enjoying the stunning views, we’ll return to Sama Gaun for the night.
Overnight Stay at Samagaun (Includes: breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Day 14: Trek from Samagaun to Samdo ( 3,860m /4-5 hrs)
On the 14th day of our Rupina La Manaslu Circuit Trek, we hike about 4 hours from Sama Gaun to Samdo, a Tibetan refugee village. We ascend approximately 325m, so we trek slowly and steadily. Passing through yak pastures and mani walls, we leave the tree line behind. Crossing the Budhi Gandaki on a wooden bridge, we reach Kani, a picturesque village inhabited by yak herders. Samdo is just ahead, where we can explore the village or hike to Samdo peak for a fantastic view. Finally, we return to our village to rest for the night.
Overnight Stay at Samdo (Includes: breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Day 15: Trek from Samdo to Dharmashala Via Larkya B.C (4,460m/ 4-5 hrs)
After descending, we will cross a wooden bridge over the Budhi Gandaki and ascend. We will then cross two streams. On the way, we will see a stunning view of Larkya Glacier. Further, from Salka Khola valley, we will ascend towards Dharamsala also known as Larke Phedi.
Overnight Stay at Dharmashala (Includes: breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Day 16: Trek from Dharmashala to Bimthang Via Larkya La (3,590m / 7-8 hrs)
On the 16th day of the Rupina La Manaslu Circuit trek, we head to the highest point, Larkya La Pass. With a long journey ahead, we start early after breakfast. From the pass, the stunning views of Himlung, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II mesmerize us, making the trek truly worthwhile. After crossing the pass and enjoying the view, we descend. It takes about 3 hours to reach Bimthang explore Larkya La Pass, where we dine and rest for the night.
Overnight Stay at Bhimthang (Includes: breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Day 17: Trek from Bimthang to Dharapani ( 1,860m /6-7 hrs)
After breakfast in Bhimthang, we’ll begin our descent towards the Surke River. Opting for the ascending trail through the pine forest, we’ll make our way to the Dudhkoshi River. Continuing our journey, we’ll pass through Dharapani, then traverse Gho village and Tilje village before reaching Dharapani for an overnight stay.
Overnight Stay at Dharapani (Includes: breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Day 18: Drive back to Kathmandu (1,350m/ 8-9 hrs)
In the morning, we’ll drive from Dharapani to Kathmandu via the Prithvi Highway by public vehicle. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we’ll check into our hotel and take a well-deserved rest for the day. Later in the evening, we come together for a special farewell dinner at a traditional Nepalese restaurant.
Overnight Stay at Hotel in Kathmandu (Includes: breakfast and dinner)
Day 19: Depart Kathmandu
We’ll transfer you to the airport for your flight back to your next destination.
(Includes: breakfast)
The cost include
- Accommodation in Kathmandu (3 nights’) on twin sharing basis with breakfast
- Total 15 nights stay on twin sharing basis in standard Teahouses and tented camp during trek
- All transfers by private vehicle and Jeep transfer to from trek start and end point.
- Three meals daily during trek (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
- An experienced Government licensed English-speaking trek leader, Porter to carry trekkers luggage. 2/3 trekkers will share 1 porter. Please leave your non-essential items in your hotel or at our store.
- Wages of the guide, porters and their meals, insurance, lodging, transportation, flight, and other necessary equipment
- Water purification tablets for safe drinking water
- MCAP, ACAP and Manaslu area special permit and TIMs charge
- Snacks (cookies) and seasonal fresh fruits every day
- Assistance in arranging rescue operations in case of complicated health conditions (funded by travel insurance)
- A comprehensive first aid kit
- Farewell dinner at authentic Nepali Restaurant with cultural dance show
The cost exclude
- Any International flight costs & Visa Fee
- Any other services except mentioned in our package
- Nature of personal expenses & personal gears (shopping, snacks, boiled bottle water, hot (Tea/ Coffee) and cold drinks, hot shower, alcohol, Wi-Fi, telephone call, battery re-charge fee, extra porters, etc.
- Travel insurance, which is compulsory for trekking (make sure the policy covers emergency high-altitude rescue and evacuation)
- Tips for guides and porters (recommended)
- Additional costs incurred due to causes beyond our control, such as, landslides, weather conditions, itinerary modifications due to safety concerns, illness, change of government policies, strikes, significant rise in fuel, flight delay or cancellation due to bad weather condition etc.
