Larke Pass Trek

Weather and the Best Season

The Larke Pass Trek can be done in various seasons, but the most comfortable ones are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). The weather is typically steady, the air is clear and daytime is mild in these months. Spring is also the time when the forests weave a carpet of rhododendrons at your feet and autumn is when you can enjoy clear skies and fresh air after the monsoon.

The winters are much colder above Samdo and Dharmasala. It can get very cold and heavy snowfall can cause closure of Larkya La Pass (5106 m / 16,752 ft). Trails may be muddy and slippery during the monsoon season and landslides can disrupt road travel.

Glory Adventure will keep you up to date on the latest weather forecasts before you travel and let you know what kind of clothing and equipment you’ll need for that season.

Difficulty and Altitude Sickness

The Larkya La Pass Trek is considered a moderately difficult to challenging trek. It covers long days of walking, long hard climbs and descents and high altitude. The days of this trek will be between 6 and 8 hours long, with a maximum of 9 hours on the day of the pass crossing. If physically prepared, previous trekking experience is helpful, but not required.

The summit of the trip is Larkya La Pass (5,106 m / 16,752 ft), where the reduced air pressure poses a heightened threat of altitude sickness. The common symptoms are headache, fatigue, loss of appetite, dizziness and sleep difficulties. Hiking at a moderate rate, drinking adequate fluid and observing the recommended acclimatization program significantly decrease the danger and increase your likelihood of a successful and safe hike.

Insurance, Visa and Permits for the Trip

Before embarking on the Larke Pass Trek, all trekkers are required to carry comprehensive travel insurance. Your policy should include coverage for high altitude trekking (over 5,106 m / 16,752 ft), emergency helicopter evacuation, medical treatment and trip cancellation. Bring a hard copy and digital copy of your insurance information along on the hike.

The majority of foreigners need a tourist visa to enter Nepal and they can apply for it either before coming into the country or at Tribhuvan International Airport. This hike is in a protected and restricted area and, therefore, multiple permits are necessary. These are issued as Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Glory Adventure will take care of all the necessary trekking permits and paperwork before your trip.

Training, Fitness Level & Mental Preparation

The Manaslu Larke Pass Trek is a demanding trek since it involves long days of trekking and a steady ascent in elevation. It is recommended to prepare 6-8 weeks ahead of your trip. Hiking, stair climbing, cycling, jogging and strength training will help make your body more accustomed to walking for several days and build endurance.

Mental preparation is also crucial. Weather in the mountains can turn rapidly, as can accommodation and some days of trekking are physically challenging. Be patient, positive and follow your guide’s instructions and the experience is bound to be enjoyable. Keep in mind that trekking is not a competition. With a moderate pace and sufficient rest, you will be able to reach Larkya La Pass (5,106 m / 16,752 ft) safely.

Risk Factors on the Trek

The Larke Pass Trek goes through remote mountain regions where weather and trail conditions may change very rapidly. Altitude sickness, snowfall, icy areas close to the pass, landslides during the monsoon and cold weather at high altitudes are possible risks. These risks can be minimised by careful planning and following the instructions of your guide.

The majority of the trails are well developed; some are narrow and rocky. When crossing suspension bridges and walking on uneven paths, it is important to be aware of your surroundings all the way. There are limited emergency medical facilities in the higher villages; so prevention is best. It is important to wear the right gear, drink plenty of water, eat regularly and give adequate acclimatization time in order to make the trek safely. Safety is always at the top of the list with Glory Adventure and they always keep an eye on weather and people’s health on the trail.

Health & Safety

The Larkya La Pass Trek involves crossing the mountains in remote regions where basic health precautions are important. By drinking plenty of water, eating balanced meals and getting plenty of rest each day, your body can acclimatize to the rising altitude. To prevent stomach illnesses, wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitizer before eating. Also bring along a personal first aid kit and your regular medications.

The upper part of the trail can be quite cold above Samdo and Dharmasala. Wear multiple layers to keep warm and shield from heat, wind and fluctuating weather. The guides at Glory Adventure are experienced and keep a close watch on your health throughout the entire journey and take the necessary steps if you develop symptoms of being at altitude.

Transportation

You will start your trek to Larke Pass from Kathmandu by a private jeep ride to the starting point of the trek, Machha Khola. The route runs both on the asphalt and on the rugged mountain roads, crosses rivers, passes through terraced fields, forests and traditional villages. The drive is long, but it is a good introduction to the Nepal countryside.

Once you have finished the hike, you will head back to Kathmandu on a bus or taxi while taking a stroll through Tilije. Roads in the mountain area may be rough at times after heavy rain, so travel times are approximate. Glory Adventure can organise all the necessary ground transport so that you are free to enjoy the trek and not have to worry about logistics.

Your Extra Expenses

Usually the Manaslu Larke Pass Trek package comes with accommodation and breakfast on the trek, permits, guide service and transportation. But you should also make a budget for personal expenses which are not covered by the package price.

Additional expenses may apply for hot showers, charging batteries, internet, drinking water (bottled/boiled), laundry, food (snacks, soft drinks, alcohol). Consider touring a monastery and purchasing souvenirs or making donations to the place. It is a common practice to tip the guide and porter in Nepal and is highly appreciated if the service is satisfactory. You should bring enough NRs with you before you leave Kathmandu as there are very few banking opportunities on the trekking trail.

Language & Communication

On your Larke Pass Trek you will encounter people from a variety of ethnic groups, including Gurung, Nubri and Tibetan-influenced villages. The national language is Nepali and local people use their traditional language as well. International visitors can easily communicate with many trekking villages in basic English, such as with the lodge owner and guide.

There are a few simple Nepali greetings that you can learn to make your interactions more enjoyable and a display of respect for the local culture. Namaste” and “Dhanyabad” (a term used for thank you) are appreciated. If traveling with Glory Adventure, your guide will also assist in the translation of conversations and understanding of local customs as needed.

Mobile Network, Internet & Charging Facilities

Cell phone reception is available on much of the Larke Pass Trek but decreases with altitude. NTC generally offers better coverage than Ncell in the upper Manaslu area, but coverage will not always be available in the remote areas of the trail.

The tea house will provide wi-fi in some places for an extra charge, but the speed of the internet is often slow and does not always work due to the weather and the network. Most lodges will charge you a small fee to charge your mobile phone, camera and other electronic devices. It is advisable to bring a fully charged power bank as there are fewer facilities for charging across Larkya La Pass (5,106 m / 16,752 ft).

Don’ts on this Trip

The Larke Pass Trek winds through isolated villages where traditional and religious life is an integral part of everyday existence. By following these traditions, visitors and locals alike can have a positive experience. In all cases, ask for permission before taking photographs of individuals, particularly monks, or at religious events. Dress modestly at monasteries and take off your shoes inside religious buildings.

Try not to litter on the trail at all and bring your own reusable water bottles when you can. Do not harm wildlife or collect plants in protected areas. Avoid alcohol and smoking at higher altitudes as it will make dehydration and altitude sickness more likely. You should not walk ahead of your guide or risk leaving the marked trail in areas where you are not familiar with the mountain.

Cultural Festivals on the Trail

The Manaslu Larke Pass Trek goes through villages with a rich Tibetan Buddhist culture, where traditional festivals are still significant to the life of the community. If you’re traveling during these events, you might be able to witness vibrant festivities, prayer services, traditional dances and village music performed at the monasteries and in the village squares.

The Lhosar festival, marking the Tibetan New Year, is one of the most significant events, when families gather, pray and perform cultural events. In addition, there are other Buddhist festivals observed throughout the year, depending on the local lunar calendar. These events are open to the public for observation in a respectful manner. If you are lucky enough to observe a festival, then your guide from Glory Adventure will tell you about what it means to the locals and help you understand the local customs.

Tips for First Time Nepal Visitors

The Larke Pass trek is a good introduction to the Nepalese mountain landscapes and culture but is a lot better fun if adequately prepared. Pack only what is necessary, wear comfortable trekking boots and dress in layers to adjust to temperature changes. A reusable water bottle and carrying personal medications are also recommended with you throughout the hike.

Nepal has its own currency, the Nepalese Rupee, while in remote villages, even ATMs are not available along the trek, so cash is preferred. Show respect for local customs by using “Namaste” as an introduction and as a means of catching the attention of others and take the advice of your guide throughout the walk. Adaptability to the weather and road conditions will make your experience a pleasant one and make the best use of your time in the Himalayas.