Overview
The Rupina La pass trek explores the remotest parts of the Manaslu region. It is one of the less heard treks in Nepal but offers an incredible venture in the Himalayas. At 4,630 meters (15,190 ft), Rupina La pass is situated in the lower region of Gorkha district. The trekking route is off-the-beaten and goes through remote villages and dense forests.
Opened in 1991 AD, the Rupina La pass trek has welcomed only a handful of travelers compared to the famous Cho La pass trek or Thorong La pass trek. The isolation of the region from the bustling trekking routes has made Rupina La pass trek in Nepal a best-kept secret that only true adventure lovers know. The trail offers an authentic Himalayan experience untouched by modern convenience.
Our Rupina La pass trek itinerary includes the Tsum valley excursion too, making the journey more appealing. That's why we also call this trek-Rupina La pass and Tsum valley trek too. It is a 19 days long trip that is both adventurous and culturally enticing. From Lokpa village (2,240 m/7,349 ft), we will follow the offbeat trail to Tsum valley. You can also extend the trek to the Manaslu circuit and cross Larkya La pass if you wish.
Tsum valley is the hidden gem of the Manaslu region. A restricted area well protected to preserve the ancient and rich cultural heritage of the natives and natural wonders of the region. This part of the Rupina La pass trekking will let you immerse yourself in myths and stories surrounding the villages. You will visit centuries-old monasteries like Mu Gompa (3,700 m/12,139 ft), Ranchen Gompa (3,240 m/10,630 ft), and Gumba Lungdang (3,200 m/10,498 ft).
The trail ascends along the Siyar Khola, crossing numerous thrilling hanging bridges and landslide areas. The trail takes you to places like Dhephu Doma Nunnery Gompa, Milarepa Cave, and Ganesh Himal Base Camp. Mountains like Manaslu (8,163 m/26,781 ft), Himlung Himal (7,126 m/23,379 ft), Ganesh Himal (7,422 m/24,350 ft), Shringi Himal (7,155 m/23,474 ft), Simnang Himal (6,251 m/20,508 ft), Gorkha Himal (6,092 m/20,334 ft), etc, are seen along the trail.
Likewise, during Manaslu Rupina La pass trek, you will traverse through various climatic zones from subtropical forests to alpine jungles and meadows that further open up to moraines and barren hills. Therefore, the trek offers a wide range of landscapes, along with diverse flora and fauna. You may even come across rare wildlife like snow leopards on this trek.
Towards the end of the trek, the trail follows the Budhi Gandaki river and passes by picturesque villages like Ekle Bhatti, Philim, Jagat, Tatopani, Khorla Besi, and Machha Khola. There are natural hot springs in Tatopani with healing properties. After a long trekking adventure, this short break in hot springs will allow you to rest and recover.
If you are looking for a unique trekking venture in Nepal, then the Rupina La pass trek is one of the best options. This a perfect trek to escape the bustling routes and enjoy nature at its best. The trek will surely test your endurance and reward you with jaw-dropping sceneries. Given the trail condition, we recommend Rupina La pass trek only to experienced trekkers.
