21 Jun 2026 8 min to read
Larkya La Pass is one of the highest and most challenging points of the popular Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal, standing at an impressive elevation of 5,106 meters. This pass is the significant highlight of the trek, the moment every trekker looks forward to.
While adventure lovers and challenging trekkers head to the Manaslu Circuit, this route offers miscellaneous landscapes, remote mountain villages, Buddhist culture, and spectacular Himalayan scenery. Crossing the Larkya Pass is repeatedly considered the ultimate success of the trek.
The main crossing day from Dharmasala to Bimthang, is long, challenging, and demanding. Trekkers start before dawn, navigate ice trails, ascend steep moraines, and finally reach the prayer-flag-covered summit before descending into the beautiful alpine valley of Bhimtang.
Larkya Pass offers the best views of some of the most popular peaks, including Manaslu, Himlung Himal, Kang-guru, Cheo Himal, and the faraway Annapurna mountains.
Where is Larkya La Pass Located?
Larkya La Pass is situated in the isolated Manaslu section of north-central Nepal. It joins the upper Budhi Gandaki Valley and the Marsyangdi Valley, lying between Dharmashala on the eastern side and Bhimtang on the western side.
Larkya La sits in the Manaslu Conservation Area, a strategic location that offers trekkers panoramic views of both the Manaslu and Annapurna Himalayan ranges. Located to the north of Manaslu, it serves as the gateway between Tibetan-influenced villages like Samagaun and Samdo and the greener valleys leading towards the Annapurna region.
Larkya La Pass Altitude
Larkya La Pass elevation: 5,106 meters (16,929 feet)
For reference:
- Dharmasala (starting camp): ~4,460 meters
- Larkya La Pass (summit): 5,106 meters
- Bimthang (end point): ~3,720 meters
- Annapurna Circuit (Thorong La Pass): 5,416 meters
- Chola Pass: 5,365 meters
The total altitude gain is ~700 meters up to the pass and ~1,400 meters down to Bhimtang. Most trekkers take 7 to 11 hours to complete the crossing day, depending on weather, fitness, group pace, and snow conditions.
Starting Point: Dharamsala
Before crossing Larkya Pass, the last stop is Dharamsala (4,460m). Accommodation here is basic but essential, a remote, high-altitude teahouse that serves as a staging point for the crossing.
Important tips for departure day:
- Prepare all gear the night before; pack everything into your rucksack
- Departure is very early; temperatures drop well below freezing
- Wear multiple layers immediately and carry hot water
- Carry a headlamp as the rocky trail is navigated in darkness
- Aim to reach the summit before daytime winds pick up
The terrain on the way up includes frozen ground, narrow traverses, rocky moraine, and snow-covered sections. At this altitude, every step feels slower due to reduced oxygen levels. After 2–3 hours, the trail becomes steeper as you approach the summit. The prayer flags become visible, but patience and steady pacing are key.
Around 8–9 AM, you will reach the top of Larkya La at 5,106m. Colorful prayer flags flutter across the summit while panoramic Himalayan views stretch in every direction. Most trekkers spend about half an hour at the top for photos and celebration, but cold temperatures and altitude make it wise to leave promptly to avoid the wind.
The Descent to Bhimtang
The descent involves snow slopes, rocky switchbacks, glacier-fed terrain, and loose scree. Walking poles are highly recommended during this section to reduce strain on your knees.
After several hours of descent, the landscape transforms dramatically, leaving the barren high-altitude environment behind and entering alpine valleys filled with forests, meadows, and Himalayan scenery.
Total Crossing Day Summary:
- Start: Dharmasala at 4,460m
- Summit: Larkya La at 5,106m
- End: Bhimtang at 3,720m
- Total Distance: ~24 kilometres
- Total Time: 8+ hours (varies by person)
Views from the Summit
The view from Larkya La is among the most spectacular in Nepal. Unlike many high passes that offer limited viewpoints, Larkya La provides a broad panorama across multiple mountain ranges:
- Mount Manaslu (8,163m): The massive north face of the world’s 8th-highest mountain appears remarkably close from the pass.
- Himlung Himal (7,126m): Located near the Nepal-Tibet border, rising dramatically to the northeast.
- Cheo Himal (6,820m): Stands impressively above surrounding ridges, contributing to the dramatic alpine scenery.
- Kang Guru: A striking peak adding depth and scale to the Himalayan panorama.
- Annapurna Himalaya Ranges: The transition from Manaslu to Annapurna creates a unique perspective rarely experienced elsewhere.
A Dual Conservation Area
One of the most unique features of Larkya La Pass is its position between the Manaslu Conservation Area and the Annapurna Conservation Area. Each conservation zone allows you to enjoy panoramic views extending across two major Himalayan regions simultaneously.
Larkya La vs. Thorong La Pass
For trekkers comparing the two famous high passes of Nepal:
- Larkya La: More remote and wild, stronger sense of wilderness, significantly less traffic, MCAP + Restricted Permit required (~$30 + ~$15/day).
- Thorong La (5,416m): More famous and considerably more crowded, easier logistics, ACAP permit (~$30).
For trekkers seeking solitude and authentic mountain experiences, Larkya La is often the favoured choice.
Month-Wise and Season-Wise Conditions
- January: Deep winter. Heavy snowfall possible. Pass may be closed.
- February: Winter continues. Unpredictable weather. Pass typically opens mid-February.
- March: Stable weather. Cold mornings. Moderate snow possible. Increasing daylight.
- April: Best trekking month. Comfortable temperatures, excellent visibility, warmer days.
- May: Warmer temperatures. Longer daylight. Snow completely melted on the route.
- June: Start of monsoon. Increasing clouds. Trail conditions become less predictable.
- July: Heavy rainfall at lower elevations. Slippery trails. Poor visibility.
- August: Continued monsoon. Frequent clouds and rain, but stunning green scenery and blue skies in between.
- September: Monsoon ends. Trails improve. Clear skies and beautiful scenery return.
- October: Peak trekking season. Stable weather, ideal crossing conditions, excellent mountain views.
- November: Cold mornings and evenings but very clear weather. Still high trekking season.
- December: Very cold. Possible snow accumulation and weather disruptions.
What Happens if the Larkya Pass is Closed?
Temporary closures can happen due to: heavy snowfall, ice-covered trails, whiteout conditions, severe storms, and avalanche risk.
When conditions become unsafe, experienced local guides play a critical role: adjusting departure times, managing altitude-related issues, assessing trail safety, and delaying the crossing when necessary. If the pass is temporarily closed, trekkers may need to spend additional nights at Dharmasala waiting for conditions to improve.
Safety always takes priority over schedules.
Essential Gear and Preparation
Necessary Clothing and Equipment
- Hand gloves and down jacket
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp
- Warm thermals
- Waterproof trekking boots
- Sun cream
- Essential medicines
- Water purification pills
- Crampons (for icy sections)
Food and Hydration
- Pack energy bars, nuts, and biscuits in your day bag
- Carry sufficient energy drinks
- Keep water bottles insulated, as water can freeze above 4,500 meters
Frequently Asked Questions
How hard is the Larkya La Pass crossing?
The crossing of Larkya La is the hardest portion of the Manaslu Circuit Trek, standing at 5,106 meters with a long, physically demanding day.
How high is Larkya La Pass?
Larkya La Pass stands at approximately 5,106 meters (16,929 feet) above sea level.
What is Larkya La Pass?
Larkya La Pass is the highest point of the famous Manaslu Circuit Trek in Nepal, connecting the Manaslu and Annapurna regions through dramatic Himalayan landscapes.
What is the best time to cross Larkya La Pass?
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) offer the most stable weather, safer trails, and excellent visibility.
How long does it take to reach the Larkya Pass?
Trekkers typically reach Larkya Pass within 9 to 10 days of the Manaslu Circuit. The crossing day starts around 4 AM and takes 8–11 hours.
What mountains can be seen from Larkya Pass?
Mount Manaslu, Annapurna II, Himlung Himal, Cheo Himal, and Kang Guru are all visible from the summit.
What permits are required for the trek?
Three permits are required: Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP), Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), and the Manaslu Restricted Permit. A government-licensed guide is also mandatory.
Why is Larkya La Pass famous?
Larkya La Pass is famous for being one of Nepal’s longest and most spectacular high mountain passes, combining remote wilderness, Tibetan-influenced culture, and a challenging trek.
Where is Larkya La Pass located?
The pass is located in the Manaslu region of Nepal’s Gandaki Province, between Dharmasala and Bhimtang.
Final Thoughts
Crossing Larkya La Pass is the most significant achievement of the Manaslu Circuit Trek. The combination of high altitude, dramatic landscapes, and panoramic Himalayan views makes it one of Nepal’s most satisfying trekking experiences.
While the journey from Dharamsala to Bimthang is undoubtedly demanding, proper preparation, acclimatization, and expert guidance make the challenge attainable for most determined trekkers.
From the spectacular views of Manaslu, Himlung Himal, and Cheo Himal to the remote wilderness surrounding the route, every step on the pass reveals the rare beauty of the Nepal Himalayas. For trekkers seeking a less crowded alternative to the Annapurna Circuit while still experiencing a world-class Himalayan crossing, Larkya La Pass stands among the finest adventures Nepal has to offer.
Last updated on 21 Jun 2026
Dhruba Bhatta