Crossing Larkya La Pass Manaslu: Ultimate Guide for 2026

Where is Larkya La Pass Located in Nepal?

Protected by the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP), the Larkya La Pass is located on the western side of Nepal, within the Gorkha district, which stands at an elevation of 5106 m (16,754 feet), closer to the border of Tibet (China). Situated between Bhimthang and Dharamsala, key stopping points, the Larkya La Pass is the highest point that one attains at the Manaslu Circuit Trek, which falls under a restricted area, demanding a special permit to get access to the trailhead; hence, the navigation route is less crowded, and the nature remains untamed, with the amenities, and tea houses, being, just as ancient traditional days, offering, hikers, what a real adventure is like, at the remote himalayas.

Known as one of the longest passes, it is adorned with the colorful Tibetan flags, and the surrounding panorama of the Annapurna and Manaslu range, making the trip one hundred percent worth it, despite all the hurdles, all along the way to reach the high pass of Larke La. Crossing Larkya La Pass is the longest day, which starts at 3:00 or 4:00 AM, passing through many steep, icy, and snowy pathways. As soon as you get to the pinnacle, the sunrise paints the tip of the iconic mountains of Mount Manaslu (8163 m), Annapurna I (8091 m), Annapurna II, Kang Guru, Cheo Himal, Himlung Himal, and unravels their enchanting view, with the heavy winds whispering and congratulating in your ears.

Whereas, as the past also carried the historical significance as it is an ancient traditional trading route between Nepal and Tibet, and still connects the two countries, strengthening the bond and cultures, hence, reaching here is a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and nature, awakening beauty, welcoming you, hence rather, than, just reaching the destination, or conquering the pass, the overall adventorous journey, what makes the odyssey intriguing and memorable.

Larkya La Pass Elevation: How high will you reach?

The Larkya La Pass is perched at an elevation of 5106 meters, marking itself as one of the longest passes in the Himalayas, and the highest point of the iconic Manaslu Trek, where the trailhead connects the two protected regions of Annapurna and Manaslu. Residing at such a height, the trek to the Larke Pass in Manaslu requires long-distance coverage each day, good physical and mental fitness, and intellectual planning of the itinerary with acclimatization days, gradual ascent, where the trekkers must have to go through many testaments, as is an inherently intriguing aspect that the trip sounds, it is demanding as well, with the possible risk of altitude sickness and weather challenges, after crossing over 5000 meters. 

The longest trekking day of the entire adventure, marked to be the climb to the pass itself, which lasts for 8-10 hours, traversing through the icy steep sections, rugged and edgy trails, and continuous ascent, with no insight of any tree lines, or the lodges in between, while making it to the pinnacle from Dharamsala (4770 meters). However, the climb is not technically demanding, yet the daily elevation gain can be a nightmare to some, if proper acclimatization days aren't set, even though, while one might feel they are all good, fit, and fine to ascend higher, and go beyond their pace level, and just pushing their testaments, by not letting their body to adopt to the rising elevation, then, the possibility of AMS (acute mountain sickness), can hit your body anytime, especially, on this very day, while climbing the Larkya La Pass. Thus, the gradual pace of 300-400 meters, each day, covering only 5-8 hours of depending on the route, slowly and steadily, makes the journey to the pass easier. 

Before reaching the highest altitude of the Manaslu Trek, ensure that at least two rest days are included in the itinerary, with short side excursions that take you a bit higher than the elevation you are at, so that your body gets used to the rising altitude above sea level, before navigating beyond 4500 meters. The best key acclimatization stopping points are Samdo, where one can engage in a short hike to the Tibetan Border (Rui La Pass) at 4998 meters, and Sama Gaon, which leads you to another iconic spot - Birendra Lake, the high glacier altitude lake, fed by Mount Manaslu itself, or the lap of the world's eighth highest peak, Manaslu Base Camp, which are only 5-6 hours of trekking distance.

This is what is called intellectual planning, which lets your body get ready for thinner air and a low oxygen level ahead, and also showcases the distinct perspective of the Himalayas, with surrounding landscapes, and unique insight into the mountains. That's what my fellow hikers did, and trust me, it was the best thing that we ever did, throughout the trip, where we enjoyed the best side trips amid Manaslu, along with letting our bodies rest, and not always pushing limits, gaining higher heights each day. While approaching the pass of Larkya La, it is wild, challenging, and an exhilarating Himalayan odyssey. A planned itinerary, slow pace hike, and acclimatizing properly, with taking rest and engaging in short excursions, make the ascent to the highest elevation of the Manaslu circuit easier and hassle-free.

What makes trekking to Larkya La Pass in Manaslu an Intriguing Must-Do Adventure in 2026 and 2027?

What's really cool about Larke Pass? It is not just any other mountain crossing; this place has so many peculiarities that make it special from anywhere else! When you plan your trek, you may want to know what makes this particular pass so famous. Well, there are pretty remarkable reasons why trekkers from all over the world come here.

High-Altitude Challenge

Okay, dare I say this could make you a bit nervous, maybe an altitude! Larke Pass is up there at 5,106 meters. I mean, at this height, the air pressure is about half of what you breathe at sea level. Strange! Once up there, your heart begins to beat faster, a headache sets in, and even climbing a few steps leaves you gasping for air. Some start feeling dizzy; some get sick. But here lies the beauty of it! That high-altitude challenge is beyond physical strength as it develops your mental toughness, too. When you get up there, where you could barely breathe, defying all odds of man, you do realize you have always thought yourself weak but instead were the strongest ever.

Breathtaking Panorama

Now the views themselves are just wow! Straightaway, when you get to the top of Larke Pass, you almost feel like the most wonderful picture book in the whole world right before your eyes. Can you imagine standing there and witnessing giant mountains stretching in every direction as far as the eye can see? 

Mt. Manaslu towers at 8,163 meters over you, which is something else because it is the eighth-highest mountain in the world! With which one has to contend are Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, and Annapurna II. From the pass, other mountains are visible, and they include Himal Chuli, Gyala Himal, Chhamjo Himal, and Himachuli. Then there are Ngadi Peak and Buddha Himal. Snow behemoths that seemingly surround you from every single angle. Very, very near indeed, so near that you swear you can reach out and grab a handful of snow from their slopes, they are miles away.  What thrills the ever-changing light? Mornings observe a pink and gold glow spilling across the peaks.. It's nature's active light show to be witnessed from the very best of seats!

Diverse Landscapes

The Larke Pass route is not associated with just one scenery! You could say that it’s like walking through many different worlds! You could be walking on fresh green hills surrounded by rice and banana trees one day, and by the next, you’re among rocks in a desert that resembles Mars, where the beauty of the protected area of the Manaslu Conservation Area, unfolds its distinct Himalayan scenery and varied kinds of terrains. Everything changes as you move upward. At first, you will see thick forests full of rhododendron trees with their red, white, and pink flowers. Then you pass through the lands where yaks will graze on grassy hillsides. Further upward is this lunar landscape where almost no plant life can grow, and it turns rocky and snowy. You spot rivers, cliffs, and vast open spaces.

The best thing is you get to experience tropical, temperate, and arctic climates all in one trek! It's like nature has shown you every climate zone on Earth in two weeks. How wonderful!

Historical Trade Route

Can you imagine having history literally under your feet as you traverse the Larkya Pass? It was once a prime trading highway for ages and ages, not just a trekking route! Imagine those traders carrying heavy loads across this really high-altitude pass. In old times, this passway was an established route for traders between Tibet and Nepal. They would put yaks to carry salt, wool, and other materials from Tibet so that some rice, sugar, and other provisions would be bargained for from the lower valleys of Nepal. Even today, you may witness some local folks utilizing sections of this ancient trade path. While puffing and panting all the way up with your modern gear, just think of those ancient traders making the same trip with the bare minimum of equipment. You are walking on the same pathway that has entertained livelihoods and trade for hundreds of years, which gives the whole experience an antiquated, very special feeling.

Myth, Belief, And Culture

Do you want to learn something really cool and unique about this place? The word Manaslu is derived from "Mountain of the Spirit". How fascinating! Imagine a mountain that has a soul! You are walking into a world where every rock, every prayer flag, and every mountain peak has a story to tell. The culture and people of Manaslu, of different Tibetan communities, Gurung, Tamang, Magar, and Bhote, have passed down beautiful legends for generations. They believe strong mountain spirits look after travelers; hence, colorful prayer flags are seen everywhere, fluttering to celebrate. And if this is scary enough, interpreter miracles say that the famous Tibetan Buddhist saint Guru Milarepa meditated here in caves centuries ago!

The presence of ancient monasteries, local people praying at beautiful stupas, and those rites really make you feel this is way beyond just a trek. Before crossing high passes, local people perform special ceremonies seeking protection. When you come across prayer flags, mani stones with carved mantras, and tiny shrines on your way, you are beholding the ancient faith of thousands of years.

How difficult is the Larkya La Pass?

The Larkya La Pass tends to fall under one of the challenging adventures in Nepal, demanding a long hour trekking distance coverage, walking through varied kinds of terrains and steep ascent navigation, while overall, the trek is moderately difficult, however, not so easy that it can be completed in the blink of an eye. The overall trail of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is not so strenuous; however, what makes it demanding is the trailhead, does demands navigation through rough sections, with frequent ups and downs, rough pathways, continuous uphill walk, and most importantly, the high elevation that you gotta undertake each day.

One of the biggest difficulty is the high altitude, with thinning air, and low oxygen level, where your body starts to react accordingly, soon after crossing the elevation of 3000 meters, whereas an uphill walk, to the pass of 5160 meters (16,754 feet), that makes you feel completely breathe it, and even suffoctaed, if, proper safety guidelines isn't followed beforehand. Thus, to stay safe, you should let your body acclimatize, along with the increasing altitude, and follow the rule of going steady yet intelligently for a smooth ascent to the pass. The weather, on the other hand, highly influences making the trek, even more challenging, as the higher you go, the climatic conditions change massively, fluctuating rapidly, being windy all of a sudden near the pass, during morning and evening times, so make sure that you head to the Larke Pass, before 3:30 AM, so that you can reach in time, and avoid the windy conditions as much as possible.

Another major factor that makes the overall adventure challenging is the route to the pass itself, which is the long trekking distance of the Manaslu Circuit trail, lasting for almost 9-10 hours of continuous walking, including the descent to the Bhimtang as well, which demands good physical fitness and stamina, and a strong mindset. The trail is slippery, steep, and comprises icy and snowy pathways, as well, which can be a nightmare for some; however, such trails only tend to happen during the winter and monsoon season, so, consider, ideal seasons, to avoid such mentally frustrating navigation, that asks, extra gears, timings, and lots of chaos in your mind.

Despite all those hurdles, challenges, and demanding journey, the trek can be smoothly completed if prior preparations are done, packings are made comprehensively matching all four seasons, and if the itinerary has been set with acclimatization days and gradual ascent, then crossing Larkya La Pass is surely an achievement to new heights and an endeavor.

Crossing Larkya La Pass: Personal Experience, what I had to go through?

Let's be honest, the Larke Pass crossing is no piece of cake! At an elevation of 5,106 meters, this is really serious stuff. First, altitude comes into the picture. It is like trying to breathe through a straw. Your heart starts beating fast; you feel a headache, and in some instances, just merely putting one foot ahead is very exhausting. In some situations, people feel dizzy and nauseous. The actual crossing day could be among the hardest days of the trek. You begin your work at about 3 or 4 a.m., with only your headlamps for light. On the way up, it becomes steep and rocky, and climbing higher each time gets harder. One minute, the sun is shining, and the next thing you know, you are in freezing clouds, lol, that's how it went when I made it in September 2025.

But then again, several thousand average people, like me and my team, do this every year! You do not need to be an athlete, but you only need to be well-prepared, have proper acclimatization, and have mental determination. Pace yourself, listen to what your body tells you, and remember, it is not about racing! Also, our guides from Destination Himalaya Treks are highly experienced and licensed with medically equipped, so, overall, everything went well, and the achievement has unlocked and overcome my fears of challenges, hence rather, than, considering it just reaching the destination, I would profoundly remark it as an once in a life time opportunity, that every adventure seekers must venture out.

Rewards after reaching the Pinnacle of 5106 meters, and acing one of the longest passes

So what happens after you've conquered this beast of a pass? Challenges do not technically just disappear, but oh boy, the rewards make it worth it! Your legs will all of a sudden feel like jelly! And the descent to Bimthang is steep, where every step will hit your knees. Also, such an odd mixture of exhaustion and excitement can sometimes leave you a little emotional. Don't be surprised to cry happy tears!  

There are these incredible rewards to talk about. First, you will feel an exuberant feeling of accomplishment and personal growth. You just did something most people only dream of! The views from this side are so different, it's like entering a brand-new world with different mountains and valleys. The trek also offers deep cultural experiences, going through lonely Tibetan-influenced villages with ancient monasteries and warm local hospitality. And then when you finally make it to Bimthang for a hot meal, it'll feel like the tastiest food you've ever had! Trust me, the Larke Pass crossing makes a change for you for the better.

Larkya La Pass Trekking Route Overview: An Insight into High Altitude Adventure

The Larkya La Pass Trek is famously known as the "Manaslu Circuit Trek", which stands out as being one of the remarkable off-beaten adventures in the Himalayas, that unveils the unexplored beauty of the less-traveled route of the Annapurna and Manaslu region. This trek is contrary, opposite to the well established popular adventures like Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Base Camp, as the remoteness, and isolated part of the restircted Manaslu Conservation Area, with the rich tibetan villages, cultures, traditions of the Tibetan communities, are the major highlight of the trip, rather, than, just attaining the certain height of the pass, or the lap of the mountain.

Every step, each stride, that you leave a footprint in the Himalayas, unravels the distinct perspective of the Manaslu region, from lush green valleys, tracing through the roaring Budhi Gandaki River, to the terraced fields, gazing at the yak and blue sheeps, to the undertaking best side trips, all along, and witnessing the transforming the rugged dry tibetan plateau, to the high mountain villages, and sourrounding mountains makes the Manaslu Larkya La Pass Trek more intriguing. Hence, all along the trek blends perfectly with the unchanged cultures, historical myths, beliefs, and the natural beauty of the undisturbed corner of the Himalayas.

The trek starts from Kathmandu (1360 meters) with a drive to Maccha Khola (870 m), which is the starting point of this trek to Manaslu, where the route navigates through several Tibetan mountain villages, such as Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Shyala, Lho, Samagaon, Samdo, and finally crosses the Larkya La Pass. Whereas, as you can see, the massive elevation gain, two acclimatization days are crucial, before ascending higher so that your body gets adapted to the rising high elevation, gradually yet intelligently. The main acclimatization points are Samagaun (3573 m) and Samdo at 3875 meters, where one can engage in a side excursion trip to Manaslu Base Camp, Birendra Lake, and the famous Tibetan border Rui La Pass, which lets your body adapt to the rising altitude over sea level.

The whole round trip demands almost 12 to 16 days of trekking, which highly depends on how long your itinerary has been set, and how experienced you are, and how long or far you can go all along; however, make it slow, and gradually so that your body adapts to the massive elevation gain difference, and avoids the possibility of AMS (acute mountain sickness), reaching to the Larkya La Pass, on 12th or 13th day, starting from Kathmandu, is the ideal time. Throughout the journey, the iconic view of several mountains such as Cheo Himal, Kang Guru, Mount Manaslu, Mt. Annapurna, Naike Peak, Buddha Himal, and the distinct view of the landscapes, with the rich cultural exploration of the diverse Tibetan communities of Nubri, Tsum, Gurung, Magar, and even Sherpas, keeps you engaged and intrigued.

Unique Experiences to Add to Your Manaslu Larke Pass Journey

Would you want to make the Manaslu adventure even more amazing? If so, then you are lucky because many wonderful side trips can be added to the main trek. Consider these as bonus excursions to allow for exploration of off-track or hidden gems that most trekkers never get to see. Some do the main circuit only, but why not squeeze in a couple of special things while you are already in this amazing part of Nepal? These side trips can add a few more days to your Larkya La Pass Trek, but I can assure you that the unique experiences will be worth it!

Serang Gompa and Pungyen Gompa

Many of you wished to visit old monasteries with secret stories hidden behind their ancient walls. Serang Gompa and Pungyen Gompa are the magical places! Sitting quietly among the mountains, these beautiful monasteries give one of the last possible views of the life and prayer of Buddhist monks in one of the remotest corners of the Earth. This detour adds an extra 2-3 days onto your usual Manaslu itinerary. The walk to these monasteries will also be a very special experience for you, as you trek through areas rarely visited by tourists. When you reach there, serene courtyards await, colourful prayer flags dancing with the winds, and maybe you'll even get to meet a few cheery monks who call these places home. The vistas around these two monasteries will leave you in awe, with views that soar over valleys and peaks. The rare opportunity to step back in time never gets old; getting a glimpse of age-old traditions that are alive and well today is priceless.

Cultural Exploration to Tsum Valley

Imagine now fastening a whole hidden valley to your already amazing trek! Tsum Valley has been thought of simply as another hidden world that branches off from the Manaslu main route. It is bursting with rich culture and history that will simply overwhelm you.  Often referred to as the Hidden Valley simply because it remained isolated away from the outer world for so the people have their own ways of doing things, their own dialect, and their own version of very ancient-type Buddhist traditions that are nowhere to be found. Here, you will visit ancient monasteries, traditional stone houses that probably never made it into the pages of any storybook, and most importantly, you will cross paths with some of the nicest people on Earth.

And that's where the awesomeness comes in, you can merge them and do the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek, making one incredible adventure instead of two separate trips! 

Stretch the Trip to Tsum Valley After Crossing the Pass

Having conquered the Larke Pass and feeling like you can take on the world, the Tsum Valley comes as a perfect addition to the adventure! Depending on your plan, the approach will lengthen your entire trip to about 25 to 28 days, so you get ample recovery time from crossing the pass before going into another exciting one. Instead of sprinting back to civilization after crossing the pass, go on and slip through this magical valley to feel as if you had stepped into a whole different country. The timing of your adventure actually suits well, as you will already be acclimatized to altitude, making the Tsum Valley Trek a lot easier than it would have been if you came here first. It's one way to restore yourself from the intensity of Larke Pass while still having another awesome adventure!

Experience the thrill of conquering the Two Iconic Passes in one adventure

Get ready for the real Himalayan challenge, not just crossing one, but TWO of Nepal's famous high passes! We are looking at a 23-25 day odyssey by blending both Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit Trek to conquer the mighty passes of Larke La and Thorong La! This one is for the hardcore. Those who want to test their limits and experience the best the Himalayas have to offer. For a month, you will be trekking across two entirely different regions and enjoying a spectacular amalgamation of landscapes, cultures, and mountain vistas. While the Manaslu Circuit gives you that remote, off-the-beaten-track feeling, the Annapurna Circuit would offer developed trails and a completely different kind of mountain ambience.  Just imagine the brag-worthy stuff you would pull after crossing two 5,000-plus-meter passes! Your legs will curse you for a few days, but your heart and soul will be delighted with incredible memories.

When is the best time to visit Larkya La Pass in Manaslu?

Wondering about the ideal time for this memorable adventure? For such a high-elevation adventure, timing is everything! whereas, for the ideal seasons to visit Larkya La Pass are spring and autumn that the so-called golden period exists from March through May and from September through November. Why so? A simple reason, the weather is the best!

Spring is just about beautiful. Imagine red rhododendron flowers against a background of gentle warmth, with stars shining brightly high above in a mild mountain breeze. It’s like nature is specially performing for you. But a word of caution could still be chillier at the pass, and warm clothes are a must for the journey. Autumn is so dear to most trekkers. They said the monsoon washes the air till the mountain views are just perfect, like on postcards. It stays stable weather, and you need not fear wetting yourself every other day. The local festivals are still on, and you might end up catching a few!

Now, if you have not made it yet, I'd say to drop the thoughts of winter and monsoon! Winter means chilling temperatures and snowstorms may set in, not fun at such a difficulty with altitude already. And the rainy season will pour so much water, block those beautiful views with clouds, and cultivate slippery and dangerous trails. Take it from me, you want to see those mountains, not clouds!"

Essential Gears and Clothing to Cross the Larkya La Pass

• Make sure you bring layers with you as it gets very cold in the wild! Put moisture-wicking clothing against your skin, then layer it with something more insulating like a fleece or down jacket and finally a layer of a rainproof jacket.
• You should carry a down sleeping bag suitable for temperatures down to -10°C to -15°C because the teahouses are usually not heated except in areas used by all. For your big crossing day, you really wouldn't want to be shivering all night
• Your feet will take you over rocky terrain, through snow, and over some demanding ground. They must possess water resistance, an insulated sole, and grip. Break-in duration is essential before your trek. High-ankle boots are better for support on uneven terrain.
• Going uphill, trekking poles act as assistance in pushing and downhill, they take the weight off the knees and help prevent falls. Here on a pass crossing day, when you are tired and the ground might be icy and rocky, those few extra seconds of balance can well become a lifesaver.
• The pass crossing begins during dark hours, let's say around 3 or 4 a.m., so a good headlamp becomes an essential item. LED headlamps are best. It should have a red light to help preserve your night vision. 
• High sun reflection off snow and ice at high altitudes comes in burning. You would want to slap on high SPF sunscreen (SPF 50 minimum), wear good quality sunglasses that offer UV protection, and maybe even wear a sun hat. Glacier sunglasses would work best.
• There should be blister bandages, pain medicine, stomach medicine and altitude sickness pills in the first aid kit. More importantly, if recommended by your doctor, consider taking altitude sickness medicine such as Diamox. Put in common medicines for headaches, stomach problems, and cuts.  
• Carry a 2-3 liter capacity drinking water bottle and keep water purification tablets or purchase a filter for your water before your journey.

Safety Tips for Trekking the Larkya La Pass in Manaslu at 5106 meters

• Your body will require a few hours to get adjusted to the thin air, so whenever possible, go on by the "climb high, sleep low" dictum. Extra days ought to be considered for acclimatization in places such as Samagaon or Samdo. 
• Report any headaches, being unable to stay upright, confusion or repeatedly being sick. The only effective solution is to move lower whenever these things happen.
• Make plans to start your crossing around 3-4 a.m., meaning that you will have to adjust to waking up before sunrise. It is best to have the most daylight hours within which to safely complete the long descent to Bimthang, since beginning late would imply having to deal with either hazardous road conditions or complete darkness. 
• Never attempt the crossing over Larke Pass if the weather is foul. The strong winds and heavy snowstorms can turn deadly very rapidly at that elevation. Keep observing the weather forecast and be ready to spend an extra day when conditions seem iffy. 
• The descent to Bimthang is long and steep, and to make things worse for your knees and legs, these will already be tired after a successful climb. Take it slow on the way down, keep constant support from the trekking poles, and watch your steps thoroughly.
• In bad weather, have confidence in your guides' judgment about crossing passes. That means being open to waiting an extra day or more for the weather to clear up. After all, no flight missed will ever be worth one's life crossing a deadly mountain pass.
• Notice whenever your body tries to signal that something is wrong. Call it a day and rest anytime you become exhausted or feel a headache. Speeding up or ignoring the ache can cause you to become sick at high altitudes.
• Make sure to hydrate the body with 3-4 litres of water each day, and if that sounds too much, then try to substitute it by having ginger soups, sherpa stews, and other soups so your body stays hydrated and warm at the same time.
• Reduce your walking speed and keep stopping from time to time for a rest. Even if you exercise regularly, climbing too fast may lead to altitude sickness. Walk as quickly or slowly as you find comfortable.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

How high is Larke Pass?

With a height of 16,752 feet or 5,106 meters above sea level, Larke Pass is among the highest trekking passes of Nepal. 

What permits are required to cross the Larke Pass Manaslu?

Three special trekking permits will have to be obtained for the Manaslu Larkya La Pass Trek: the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP), the Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). You need an authorized agency to get the permit. 

What kind of accommodation is available along the Larke Pass route?

During most of the cross, you'll be staying in teahouses that are quite basic with small rooms usually having two beds with attached bathroom facilities. The accommodation in the Manaslu region gets remote, becoming even more basic with every step, and can sometimes be dormitories at Dharamsala just before the pass. Keep in mind these are mountain shelters, so do not expect anything fancy.

How many hours to cross the Larke Pass?

Crossing the pass usually requires 8-12 hours for the entire day trip, with departures from Dharamsala, usually from 3-4 AM, arriving in Bimthang. The climb to the pass takes 4-6 hours. The descent to Bimthang will be another 4-6 hours.

Is Larke Pass more difficult than Thorong La Pass?

Yes, the Larke Pass is more difficult! The Larke Pass is approximately 300 meters higher than the Thorong La; from the beginning, the approach itself is much more remote and isolated, with almost no infrastructure en route. The crossing day is longer and physically more demanding.

How to get to Larkya La Pass from Kathmandu?

Larkya La Pass trekking starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Machhakhola. From Machhakhola, the trek proceeds to Jagat, albeit an easy day. Deng will be the next place for overnight stay, after which the trek continues towards Namrung and Lho, and then on to Shyala village. Then it is on to Samagaun, with a stop at Pungyen Gompa monastery. Here, a rest day can be spent hopping through the Manaslu Base Camp or Birendra Lake.

Further trekking to Samdo will give an option for a side trip to the Tibetan border. The next day, proceed towards Dharamshala. The highlight would be crossing the Larke La Pass and reaching Bhimtang. After coming down from the pass, the route descends further to Dharapani via Tilche, then Besisahar, and back to Kathmandu. As a result, the journey combines spectacular nature, cultural sites, and exciting adventure.

Conclusion: Final Words