Trekking in Nepal
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15 Days
Trekking
These treks are slightly more challenging than easy treks and require a moderate level of physical fitness. The altitude may go up to 4,000 meters, and the terrain can be rugged and steep at times. The trails are usually well-defined, but there may be some uphill climbs and rocky sections. Examples of moderate treks in Nepal are the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Everest Base Camp Trek, and the Langtang Gosainkunda Trek.
4720 M
Kathmandu
Kathmandu
Minimum: 2 pax
March-May/Sept-Dec
The Rupina La Pass trek is a challenging and less-crowded trekking route located in the Manaslu region of Nepal. It takes you through remote and untouched wilderness, offering stunning natural beauty, cultural immersion, and a sense of adventure. This area was opened at 1991 as a touristic place. Passing through decent rice porch, impressive waterfall, view of typical Nepali pagoda style houses, scenic view of river, hills and mountains, we begin our trek to Rupina La Pass trek.
The trek typically starts from From an Iconic Village Barpak in Gorkha District and you follow a trail that passes through picturesque villages of Barpak and Laprak before reaching Rupina-La Pass. The route is circular, so you return to Gorkha via a different path at Machha Khola which is the starting point of Tsum Valley-Manaslu Circuit Trek, from where we drive about 8-9 hours by bus to Kathmandu.
Barpak is a beautiful village and the largest Gurung settlement in the region considered as starting of the trek. It was heavily affected by the devastating earthquake in 2015 but has since been rebuilt. Exploring Barpak allows you to experience the traditional Gurung culture, visit local monasteries, and witness the resilience of the community.
Laprak is another charming village on the Rupina La Pass trek. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and terraced fields. You can interact with the friendly locals, visit ancient monasteries, and learn about their traditional way of life.
Before reaching the actual pass, there is a base camp situated at a lower elevation. It serves as a resting point and provides magnificent views of the surrounding peaks. It’s an ideal spot to take a break, soak in the scenery, and prepare for the challenging ascent to the pass. The crossing of Rupina-La Pass itself is a highlight of the Rupina La Pass trek. Once you reach the pass, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan range. It’s a great place to take memorable photographs and savor the sense of achievement.
Rupinala Phedi is a small settlement located near the base of the pass. It serves as a stopping point for trekkers before ascending to Rupina La Pass. You can relax here, interact with fellow trekkers, and enjoy the serene mountain environment.
The trek offers breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayan peaks, including Manaslu (8,163m), Ganesh Himal (7,422m), and other snow-capped mountains. The trail takes you through diverse landscapes, including lush forests, alpine meadows, and glacial valleys. The Rupina La Pass trek takes you through remote and less-trekked areas of the Manaslu region, providing a sense of solitude and tranquility. You will trek through pristine forests, cross gushing rivers, and witness the untouched beauty of nature.
The trek falls within the boundaries of the Manaslu Conservation Area, which is a designated protected area. It is home to various endangered species and aims to conserve the unique biodiversity of the region. Along the trail, there are tea houses and lodges where trekkers can find shelter and rest. These accommodations offer basic facilities such as meals and comfortable beds. However, it’s important to note that the amenities may be more basic compared to popular trekking routes, given the remoteness of the area.
The Rupina La Pass trek allows you to immerse yourself in the rich local culture of the region. You will pass through several traditional villages inhabited by ethnic communities like Gurungs, Tamangs, and Sherpas. You can interact with the friendly locals, experience their warm hospitality, and learn about their unique traditions and way of life. Trekkers often mention the warm hospitality of the locals and the enriching cultural experiences they encounter along the way.
The region is home to a variety of flora and fauna. Trekkers often spot colorful birds like the Danphe (Lophophorus), and if lucky, they might come across wildlife such as the snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, musk deer, or Himalayan marmots. The diverse natural surroundings add to the overall trekking experience.
The climate in the Rupina La Pass trekking region varies based on the season. It’s important to plan your trek during the optimal season to ensure favorable weather conditions. Generally, the best time to undertake this trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, you can expect moderate temperatures and clear skies, which provide excellent visibility of the mountains and landscapes. The daytime temperatures can range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) at lower elevations, while it can drop below freezing point at higher altitudes.
The Rupina La Pass trek is considered to be a challenging trek that requires a good level of physical fitness and prior trekking experience. It involves traversing through rugged and remote terrain, including steep ascents and descents. The trail can be demanding, with some sections requiring the use of ropes and climbing equipment. Additionally, the high altitude can pose challenges such as altitude sickness. Therefore, it is recommended to have proper acclimatization days and consult with experienced trekking guides or agencies before attempting this trek.
The duration of the Rupina La Pass trek can vary depending on several factors, including your itinerary and hiking pace. On average, the trek takes around 15 to 18 days to complete. However, it’s important to note that this duration can be longer or shorter based on individual preferences and conditions on the trail. It’s essential to allow sufficient time for acclimatization and to enjoy the scenic beauty of the region.
Like other restricted areas in Nepal, you need to obtain certain permits for the Rupina La Pass trek. After Rupina-La pass you gonna entered into the Manaslu restricted zone so trek requires the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, which is required to enter the Manaslu restricted and Conservation Area, so in additional we need to obtain Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and TIMS card.
The best time to undertake the Rupina La Pass trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather conditions, clear skies, and favorable temperatures for trekking. The monsoon season (June to August) and winter months (December to February) are less ideal due to heavy rainfall, snowfall, and harsh weather conditions.
Along the trail, there are tea houses and lodges where you can find accommodation. However, the facilities may be more basic compared to popular trekking routes. It’s advisable to carry a sleeping bag and be prepared for shared facilities.
It’s recommended to trek with a licensed guide or through a trekking agency for safety and navigation purposes. They can provide you with necessary information, ensure your well-being, and make necessary arrangements along the trek.
Overall, the Rupina La Pass trek is a challenging adventure that combines breathtaking natural beauty, cultural immersion, and a sense of accomplishment. It provides a unique opportunity to explore remote and less-visited areas of Nepal, away from the crowds, and experience the raw beauty of the Himalayas.
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For my first trek in Nepal i couldn't had a better experience. The organization was excellent, our porter very helpful. the only regret is that i could not stay longer ;) thanks again to all the team and i will definitively be back !! Freddy
Date of experience: October 2014
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