Overview

Manaslu Three Pass Trek

Manaslu Three Pass Trek: A Challenging Journey Through Remote Himalayan Landscapes

The Manaslu Three Pass Trek is one of the most exciting and difficult treks in Nepal. It takes you through remote areas of the Manaslu region, crossing three high mountain passes: Larke La Pass (5,106m), Rupina La Pass (4,610m), and Ngula Dhojhyang Pass (5,093m) in the Tsum Valley. This trek is perfect for adventurers looking for a less-traveled route, offering stunning views, traditional villages, and ancient Buddhist monasteries along the way.

This trek allows you to experience three incredible high passes, each offering amazing views of the surrounding mountains. Starting from Machha Khola, you’ll walk through beautiful forests, terraced fields, and traditional villages. The trail takes you to Jagat, which is the entry point into the Manaslu Conservation Area, and you’ll also explore the culturally rich Tsum Valley.

The first big challenge is the Rupina La Pass (4,610m), a high-altitude pass known for its rugged landscape. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Manaslu (8,163m), the eighth highest mountain in the world. After crossing this pass, the trek takes you down into the Budi Gandaki Valley, where you’ll pass by old villages and monasteries that hold great cultural value.

Next is the Ngula Dhojhyang Pass (5,093m) in the Tsum Valley, which is a spiritual and peaceful place. This valley has been secluded for a long time, keeping its traditional Tibetan culture and practices alive. You’ll visit important monasteries like Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa, where the local monks and nuns carry on ancient Buddhist traditions.

The final pass, Larke La Pass (5,106m), is a tough but rewarding climb. The view from the top is worth the effort, offering stunning sights of mountains like Himalchuli, Cheo Himal, and Kang Guru. After crossing Larke La, you’ll descend to Bimtang, a peaceful village where you can rest and take in the views before finishing the trek.

Best Season and Time for Manaslu Three Pass Trek

Spring (March to May)

Spring is one of the most ideal times for the Manaslu Three Pass Trek. The weather is generally good, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures during the day. The hillsides are full of blooming rhododendrons, which add beautiful colors to the trek. During the day, it’s usually warm enough for trekking, but the temperatures drop at night, especially in higher areas. This is a great season if you want to enjoy nature at its best and experience the beauty of the region.

Summer/Monsoon (June to August)

 

Summer brings the monsoon season, and the Manaslu region experiences heavy rainfall during this time. The trails can get muddy, making trekking more difficult, and there is a higher risk of landslides. The views of the mountains are often hidden behind clouds, and you may encounter leeches in the lower areas. However, if you prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind the rain, it’s possible to trek during the monsoon, but you'll need to be prepared for wet and slippery conditions.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is the best time for trekking the Manaslu Three Pass. The weather is perfect for trekking after the monsoon rains, with clear skies and stunning views of the mountains. The temperatures are comfortable, neither too hot nor too cold, making it easier to trek at higher altitudes. This season is popular with trekkers because of the ideal conditions, but it’s still less crowded compared to other trekking routes like Everest or Annapurna. The fresh greenery from the monsoon makes the scenery even more beautiful.

Winter (December to February)

Winter is a tough season for the Manaslu Three Pass Trek. The temperatures drop significantly, especially at night, and there is often heavy snowfall. The high passes, like Larke La Pass, can get blocked by snow, making the trek difficult or even impossible. If you're an experienced trekker looking for a real adventure, winter can still be an option, but you’ll need to be well-prepared for the cold. Some parts of the route might need to be changed if there’s too much snow.

If you’re planning to trek during winter, it’s best to check the weather conditions beforehand and be ready for colder temperatures and more challenging terrain. For most trekkers, spring and autumn are the best times to go for a safer and more enjoyable experience.

What can you Expect in Manaslu Three Pass Trek?

The Manaslu Three Pass Trek offers a mix of adventure, stunning landscapes, and unique cultural experiences. Here’s what you can look forward to during this challenging yet rewarding trek:

Incredible Mountain Views

Throughout the trek, you’ll witness some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in Nepal. Expect to see towering peaks like Mount Manaslu (8,163m), Himalchuli, Cheo Himal, and Kang Guru. The views from the three high passes, especially Larke La Pass, are breathtaking, giving you amazing panoramic sights of snow-capped mountains.

Tough High Pass Crossings

 

You will cross three high passes: Rupina La Pass (4,610m), Ngula Dhojhyang Pass (5,093m), and Larke La Pass (5,106m). These passes are physically demanding, with steep climbs and descents, but they reward you with fantastic views and a real sense of accomplishment. The trek will be tough, with high altitudes and long hiking days, so good fitness and proper acclimatization are important.

Remote and Quiet Trails

The Manaslu region is much quieter than busy trekking areas like Everest or Annapurna. You’ll pass through peaceful villages, forests, and open valleys where only a few trekkers go. The trails are less crowded, giving you a true sense of adventure and isolation. You’ll often find yourself alone in the mountains, surrounded by nature.

Rich Tibetan-style Culture

As you walk through the villages in the Tsum Valley and Budi Gandaki Valley, you’ll experience the local culture, which is deeply influenced by Tibetan Buddhism. You’ll see traditional Tibetan homes, colorful prayer flags, and mani walls with prayers carved into them. You’ll also visit old monasteries like Mu Gompa and Rachen Gompa, where monks practice ancient Buddhist rituals.

Varied Landscapes and Wildlife

This trek takes you through a range of landscapes, from green forests and terraced farmlands to rocky mountain paths and high-altitude meadows. The Manaslu Conservation Area is home to rare wildlife, so you might spot animals like Himalayan blue sheep or even snow leopards, as well as different species of birds along the route.

Trekking at High Altitude

Since you’ll be trekking at altitudes above 5,000 meters, you need to be cautious about altitude sickness. You’ll have to acclimatize properly and avoid rushing up the trail. The experienced guides from Touch The Himalaya Treks and Expedition will help you maintain a safe pace and ensure you acclimatize well.

Simple Teahouse Lodging

Along the trek, you’ll stay in local teahouses, which are basic lodges run by families. The rooms and meals are simple, offering local dishes like rice, noodles, and soups to keep your energy up. Though the accommodations are not luxurious, the friendly hospitality of the locals will make your stay enjoyable.

An Unforgettable Experience

Overall, you can expect a tough but thrilling adventure. The Manaslu Three Pass Trek is not only a physical challenge but also a cultural and spiritual journey. You’ll be surrounded by the beauty of the Himalayas and get to know the local communities, all while crossing some of the highest passes in the region.

Difficulty Level of Manaslu Three Pass Trek

Long Trekking Hours: You will need to hike for 6 to 8 hours each day on difficult trails. Some days will be even longer, and the steep ascents and descents make the trek physically demanding.

High Altitudes: The trek takes you above 5,000 meters, with the highest points at Larke La Pass (5,106m) and Ngula Dhojhyang Pass (5,093m). There’s a high chance of altitude sickness, so it’s important to acclimatize well and go slowly.

Difficult Pass Crossings: You will cross three high mountain passes – Rupina La Pass (4,610m), Ngula Dhojhyang Pass, and Larke La Pass. These passes have steep sections, snowy trails, and tough weather conditions, making them a real challenge.

Remote and Rough Trails: The trek goes through remote areas where the trails are narrow, rocky, and uneven. You’ll be far from any modern comforts, which makes both the physical and mental challenges harder.

Unpredictable Weather: Weather in the high Himalayas changes quickly, especially at higher altitudes. Cold temperatures, snow, or rain can make the trek more difficult, especially when crossing the passes.

Fitness Level Needed: You need to be in good physical shape to complete this trek. It’s important to have prior hiking or trekking experience to handle the tough terrain and long walking days.

Basic Lodging and Amenities: The teahouses along the trek provide only basic facilities. The lack of modern comforts, especially at higher altitudes, adds to the overall difficulty of the journey.

Mental Strength: Along with physical endurance, mental strength is crucial. The long, tough days of trekking in challenging conditions can be exhausting, so staying motivated is important to finish the trek successfully.

Culture in the Manaslu Region

The Manaslu region has a unique mix of Tibetan and Nepali cultures. Its close location to Tibet influences many local traditions. The main groups living here are the Nubri and Tsum people, who follow Buddhist practices. You can see many monasteries and prayer flags around, showing how important Buddhism is to their lives. The Tsum Valley is special for Buddhists, as it’s a key pilgrimage site. Festivals like Lhosar, which is the Tibetan New Year, are celebrated with lively events. People gather for traditional dances, rituals, and prayers at the monasteries.

The food in the Manaslu region mainly comes from what is grown locally. Barley, potatoes, and buckwheat are common ingredients. These are used to make dishes like tsampa, which is roasted barley flour, and momo, which is dumplings. People often drink yak butter tea and eat churpi, a type of hard cheese. The culture is also reflected in their clothing. During festivals and daily life, people wear traditional Tibetan-style outfits. The blend of Tibetan and Nepali traditions can be seen in both their food and way of life.

Food and Accommodation in Manaslu Three Pass Trek

The food and accommodation on the Manaslu Three Pass Trek are simple but suitable for the remote area. Most of the lodges and teahouses serve basic meals made from local ingredients. Common dishes include dal bhat, which is rice with lentil soup, noodles, and momos, which are dumplings. Since the region is at a high altitude, yak butter, cheese, and meat are often used in meals. Hot drinks like tea are a favorite among trekkers, especially to stay warm in the cold weather. Although the food choices might be limited as you go higher, it provides enough energy to keep going on the trek.

Accommodation is mostly in teahouses, offering a basic yet cozy place to sleep. The rooms are usually shared and might have blankets, but it's a good idea to bring a sleeping bag for extra warmth at higher altitudes. Guides from Manaslu Guides will make sure to find the best possible places for you to stay during the trek. They will help arrange the food, ensuring it's healthy and suited for the trek’s demands. Their experience in the region means they know the best lodges and meals, giving you a more comfortable and enjoyable experience. With their help, your trek will be well-organized, and you can focus on the adventure ahead.

Permits for Manaslu Three Pass Trek

The necessary permits for the Manaslu Three Pass Trek are:

• Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
• Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Manaslu Guides will help you get all the necessary permits, making the process easy and stress-free before your trek. Our local knowledge will guide you through the rules and requirements smoothly, saving you both time and effort. We know the regulations for the Manaslu region well and will make sure all the permits are obtained properly and on time. Along with managing the paperwork, We can also give you useful information about the restricted areas and conservation efforts. This allows you to enjoy the trek while we take care of all the legal and logistical details.

Packing List for Manaslu Three Pass Trek:

Here’s a packing list for the Manaslu Three Pass Trek to help you prepare:

Clothing

• Base Layer (Thermal Underwear): Top and bottom for warmth.
• Trekking Shirts: Moisture-wicking, long-sleeve shirts.
• Fleece Jacket or Sweater: For extra warmth.
• Insulated Jacket: A down or synthetic jacket for cold weather.
• Trekking Pants: Quick-drying and comfortable.
• Waterproof Pants: For protection against rain and snow.
• Trekking Socks: Several pairs of moisture-wicking socks.
• Warm Hat: To keep your head warm.
• Sun Hat or Cap: For sun protection.
• Gloves or Mittens: Insulated and waterproof if possible.
• Buff or Neck Gaiter: For warmth around the neck.

Footwear

• Trekking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof, and broken-in.
• Camp Shoes: Lightweight sandals or sneakers for relaxing in the evening.
• Gaiters: To keep dirt and snow out of your boots.

Gear

• Backpack: A comfortable daypack (20-30 liters) for daily use.
• Sleeping Bag: Rated for cold weather (0°C or lower).
• Trekking Poles: For stability on the trails.
• Headlamp or Flashlight: With extra batteries.

Personal Items

• Water Bottles or Hydration System: To stay hydrated.
• Sunscreen: High SPF for protection against UV rays.
• Lip Balm: With SPF to protect your lips.
• First Aid Kit: Basic supplies for emergencies.
• Personal Medications: Any necessary prescriptions.
• Toiletries: Biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.
• Towel: Quick-drying travel towel.

Food and Snacks

• Energy Bars or Trail Mix: For quick snacks on the trail.
• Electrolyte Tablets: To stay hydrated.

Miscellaneous

• Camera: To capture the stunning scenery.
• Power Bank: For charging devices.
• Travel Insurance Documents: Keep a copy handy.
• Cash: Local currency for small purchases along the way.

This list will help ensure you have everything you need for a safe and enjoyable trek through the Manaslu region. 

TRIP HIGHTLIGHTS

• Un spoiled and non-commercialized trekking route.
• Of the beaten paths and an amazing experience.
• So many of flora and fauna and wild lives.
• Beautiful Monasteries high altitude lakes, glaciers sustaining views of mountains and passes.
• Iconic villages such as, Mu Gompa, Lho, Samagaun, Bhimthang, Naar, Phu, Manang, Mustang etc.
• Beautiful high altitude passes, Larkya La (5160 mtr) Kangla Pass (5322mtr) and Throngla pass (5416m)
• Fusion of Unique Nepali and Tibetan culture in the local area.
• Amazing magnificent Himalayan views of Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Annapurna, etc.

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Good to Know

FAQ

Is ATMs service available during the trip?

The facility of the ATMs is not available during the trek. Before starting the trek the travelers are required to collect the enough cash for the trek in Kathmandu and begin the trek. 

Is internet and battery charge service available?

Battery charge and internet facilities are available in the transit houses where the travelers are needed to pay the charge for using these service. If the traveler has a local sim card then it would be easier for him/her to use the mobile internet service. 

What about insurance?

Insurance is significant factor for the safety of travelers to use against the unforeseen circumstances. The insurance should cover emergency helicopter transportation cost and accidental issues. Mostly we suggest insurance in case of emergency evacuation which will be reliable and safety of the traveler.

Does the company gives pick up service?

Yes pick up and drop off service is available 24/7 in our company . The representative of our company will be there to receive our clients outside the arrival of TIA holding the name of him/her in the brochure. They will guide our clients towards the booked hotels in private transportation. 

Can I trek Long Manaslu Three Passes Trek solo?

Trekking solo in Long Manaslu Three Passes Trek is forbidden. You have to trek in a group or with a partner. if you are unable to find a trekking partner, please keep on touch we can make some arrangement.

Is there any luggage limit for porter?

Actually we limit the luggage for the porter. The limitation for the luggage of the porter is 20 kg. for the two trekkers one porter is given by our company. The luggage limit is kept so that the porter won't be over loaded. They are there to raise the spirit of the trekkers, help trekkers, love and take care of trekkers. They give their best effort to reach the trekkers to their destination safely. The porters of our company are well trained and are from the local region. 

Is permit necessary?

Yes, the trekkers are definitely needed a permit for the Long Manaslu Three Passes Trek. The trekkers are not need to worry about the permits, our company can get the trekkers permit once the trekkers book the trek in our company.

Will the meal be easily available on the trek to Long Manaslu Three Passes Trek?

No any five star hotel is available in trek regions but the transit houses has a menu with the local food. Fresh foods are available in this region.  Daal Vaat Tarkari Achar is available as a traditional meal, snacks, soft drinks, soups and beer are available. The guest house and home stay serves food which is available there according to the guest's need. 

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