How difficult is the Rupina La Pass Trek?

The trek is considered challenging, both physically and logistically. The trail includes: Remote wilderness with basic to no infrastructure Steep ascents and descents Crossing a high-altitude pass (Rupina La at 4720m) River crossings, forest trails, and rocky terrain This trek is recommended for experienced trekkers with good fitness levels and prior high-altitude trekking experience.

What is the best time to do the Rupina La Trek?

The best seasons are: Spring (March–May) – Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, and moderate temperatures. Autumn (September–November) – Dry weather, excellent visibility, and cool, stable conditions.

What kind of permits do I need for this trek?

You’ll need: Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP) Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) Restricted Area Permit (RAP) if you go beyond certain checkpoints on the Manaslu Circuit You must be accompanied by a licensed guide. The government also requires a minimum of two trekkers for RAPs.

What kind of views can I expect on the Rupina La Trek?

Expect dramatic and varied landscapes: Snow-capped peaks like Manaslu (8,163m), Himalchuli, and Ganesh Himal Deep river gorges, high alpine meadows, glaciers Lush forests and untouched highland pastures Remote villages with traditional Gurung and Tibetan culture The scenery changes drastically from lowland hills to high-altitude desolation, making the trek visually diverse and stunning.

Is altitude sickness a concern on this trek?

Yes, especially when approaching or crossing the Rupina La Pass. The altitude reaches 4,720 meters, and there's minimal infrastructure in case of emergency. To reduce risk: Acclimatize properly (take rest days) Ascend gradually Monitor for symptoms like headaches, nausea, or dizziness Your guide will help manage altitude concerns, and having a first aid kit and contingency plan is vital.

Why should I choose the Rupina La Trek over other popular treks?

If you’re an adventurous soul seeking a raw and untouched Himalayan journey, Rupina La is an excellent choice. Unlike Everest or Annapurna, this trail offers: No crowds Wild beauty Authentic local culture A real sense of exploration You won’t find flashy lodges or cappuccinos here—just rugged terrain, pure silence, and humble village life. It’s a trek that rewards the brave and the curious with unfiltered Himalayan magic.

Rupina La Pass Trek

Overview And Highlights

Trip Facts

Duration

18 Days

Trip Type

Lodge & Camping

Grade

Strenuous

Max. Elevation

5390 m.

Transportation

4WD Jeep

Min. Group Size

2 or more

Best Season

Spring and Autumn

Rupina La Pass Trek was officially opened to tourists in 1991, but mountaineering expeditions have long had access to the area. This trek is geographically spectacular and culturally fascinating as it involves circumnavigating Manaslu( 8163m), Peak 29 (7871m), Himal Chuli (7893m) and Boudha (6672m). Crossing the Rupina-La (4720m) pass would be quite challenging.

Unlike the more established Manaslu Circuit, the Rupina La trek takes a wilder, less-traveled path, making it perfect for trekkers seeking solitude, raw adventure, and authentic cultural encounters.

Day to Day Itinerary

Day1Arrival at Kathmandu International Airport.

Accommodation

Hotel

Max Elevation

1400 m.

On your arrival at Kathmandu International Airport, you will be greeted with flower garlands/Khadas. Our representative will then take you to your hotel. If time prevails, you will visit office for paperwork. Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Day2Free day in Kathmandu

Food/Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

1400 m.

Free day in Kathmandu for trip preparation. Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Day3Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola (730m) via Arughat Bazaar (570m) takes about 7 hours.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

730 m.

You will drive along paved roads up to Tari Besi, alongside the banks of the Khani Khola, Trishuli River, and Thopal Khola. The journey offers picturesque views of green hills, flowing streams, farming terraces, villages, small markets, and mountain views. From Tari Besi, continue on a graveled path, crossing the Ankhu Khola to reach Arughat Bazaar. Then follow along the Budhi Gandaki River to Soti Khola. Stay overnight in a lodge.

Day4Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola (890m) takes about 4 hours.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

890 m.

The zigzag trail passes through forests, villages, streams, waterfalls, and green valley’s until you reach Lapu Besi, a village mainly inhabited by Bhotia people. Continue trekking to Machha Khola, a small market with a few shops and lodges. Stay overnight in a lodge.

Day5Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (1350m) which takes about 6 hours.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Lodge

Max Elevation

1350 m.

Cross the Machha Khola and head upstream to the tiny village of Khorla Bensi and the hot springs at Tatopani. After a challenging section, reach Doban and head towards Lauri. Cross the river on a suspension bridge and climb to the fields of Jagat. Stay overnight in a lodge.

Day6Trek from Jagat to Gomna (2100m.) takes approximately seven and half hours

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Camp

Max Elevation

2100 m.

Leaving Jagat, you trek through a gently ascending path until Surtibas following villages and terraces. Later the trail becomes a little bit difficult as you have to trek upward. While walking, you can relish the splendid views of mountains such as Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal and green hills. Stay overnight at camp.

Day7Trek from Gomna to Jarang (2620m.) takes about seven and half hours

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Camp

Max Elevation

2620 m.

This day you walk through dense forests with chances to see wild life such as bear, deer, and leopard and mountain birds. The trail is quite a gentle ascent and ocassionally, while passing through this area, you can see mountain views. Stay overnight at camp.

Day8Trek from Jarang to Rupina La Phedi (4643m.) takes approximately seven hours.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Camp

Max Elevation

4720 m.

The trail moves gently upward crossing Rupina La pass (4720m.). Today, mountain views become clearer as you can enjoy the magnificent views of Ganesh Himal, Boudha Himal and Shringi Himal. Stay overnight at camp.

Day9Trek from Rupinala Phedi to Bhedi Odar (5150m.) takes about six hours.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Camp

Max Elevation

5150 m.

After trekking uphill till Rupinala Bhanjyang you follow a descending path to Bhedi Odar. From Rupinala Bhanjyang, you can enjoy magnificent views of Boudha Himal, Manaslu Mountain, Himal Chuli, Ganesh Himal and Shringi Himal. Stay overnight at camp.

Day10Trek from Bhedi Odar to Bhedi Kharka (5225m.) takes about seven hours.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Camp

Max Elevation

5225 m.

The early part of the trail is easy. To reach Bhedi Kharka you have to trek uphill passing through forests and green hills. Mountain views are easily captured along the way. Bhedi Kharka is also a grazing field. Stay overnight at camp.

Day11Trek from Bhedi Kharka to Dudh Pokhari (5390 m.) takes about six hours.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Camp

Max Elevation

5390 m.

Passing through forests covered mainly by bamboo you have to trek uphill until you reach Dudh Pokhari,. Dudh Pokhari is a pilgrimage site where many devotees gather at special periods round the year. Dudh Pokhari is the best view point of the entire trip as you can see panoramic views of Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Shringi Himal, Lamjung Himal, Annapurna range and many other unnamed mountains and peaks. Stay overnight at camp.

Day12Trek from Dudh Pokhari to Ninghalaghari (4590m.) takes about seven hours.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Camp

Max Elevation

4590 m.

This day you trek a gradually descending path until you reach your destination, passing through forests covered with bamboo, rhododendron, pine and other plants and shrubs. Ningala Ghari is a campsite surrounded by forests covered mainly by bamboos and green hills. Stay overnight at camp.

Day13Trek from Ninghalaghari to Chyadi Danda (3600m.) takes about seven hours.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Camp

Max Elevation

3600 m.

After walking gently downhill for a few minutes you begin to trek uphill until you reach Chyadi Danda. En route you walk through tranquil forests while saoking in mountain sceneries and villages at a far distance. Chyadi Danda is a ridge surrounded by forests and green hills. Stay overnight at camp.

Day14Trek from Chyadi Danda to Tonje (1850m.) takes about seven hours.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Camp

Max Elevation

1850 m.

To reach Tonje, you have to trek through sparse forests as the trail is filled with ups and downs. Tonje is a small village mainly inhabited by the Gurung ethnic group. Enjoy warm welcome by local people and witness a local cultural show. Stay overnight at camp.

Day15Trek from Tonje to Duwar (975m.) takes about six hours.

Food/Meals

Breakfast/lunch/dinner

Accommodation

Camp

Max Elevation

975 m.

You walk through villages and along a river bank. Duwar is a comparatively bigger village than Tonje and, here too, you will get to experience the traditional culture and customs of local people. Stay overnight at camp.

Day16Trek from Duwar to Besisahar (760m.) and drive to Kathmandu.

Food/Meals

Breakfast & Lunch

Accommodation

Hotel

Max Elevation

1400 m.

Trek from Duwar to Besisahar (760m.) takes about two and half hours. The trail today is quite easier as you trek along a leveled path passing terraces, villages, and suspension bridges while enjoying mountain views, green hills and a flowing river at a far distance. On the same day, drive from Besisahar to Kathmandu takes about 6 hours. It is a picturesque journey to get back to Kathmandu following Marshyangdi and Trishuli rivers with splendid views of green hills, mountains, farming terraces and villages on either side. Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Day17Free day in Kathmandu

Food/Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Hotel

Max Elevation

1400 m.

Free day in Kathmandu for shopping and recreation. Stay overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Day18Departure

Food/Meals

Breakfast

As per your flight schedule, our airport representative will transfer you from your hotel to the airport for your final departure.

Price includes the following services

a) Kathmandu

All airport pick-up and drop-off services by private vehicle
4 night hotel accommodation with breakfast at 3 star standards hotel
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu with live cultural performance at authentic Nepali restaurant on the last evening

b) Trekking

Trekking guide/s
Camping crews (Cook, Sherpa, kitchen helper)
Porters (1 porter carries 25 kilograms of luggage)
All meals three times a day (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
Accommodation: Partly in teahouses (lodges) and most of the nights camping
Required equipment: Tents, mattresses, sleeping bags, down jackets, duffle bags, cooking utensil and trekking poles
Cooking fuel
Camping charges
Special trekking permit for the Manaslu area
Entry permits for Manaslu Conservation Area and Annapurna Conservation Area
Local government entry fee
Trekkers' Information Management system (TIMS) card
Land transportation: Kathmandu to Soti Khola and Besisahar to Kathmandu by 4WD Jeep
Insurance and equipments for the guide and porters
First aid kit
Tax, VAT and our service charge
Rescue assistance (In case of emergency, we will organize prompt and professional rescue services. To arrange timely evacuation/rescue by helicopter, you must be well insured from a reliable travel insurance company that covers both helicopter evacuation and medical treatment cost.)

Service Excludes

Personal nature expenses (Telephone calls, internet, toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beers and any alcoholic beverages)
Entrance fees while sightseeing in Kathmandu
Travel/Medical insurance
Tips for involved staffs
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu

Explore the route

Altitude & route map

Select a preview to open a large, zoomable view.

Rupina La Pass Trek Altitude Graph

Frequently Asked Questions for Rupina La Pass Trek

The trek usually takes 15 to 18 days, depending on your itinerary, acclimatization schedule, and starting/ending points. Most itineraries begin from Barpak (a beautiful Gurung village) and end at Dharapani, where it connects to the Manaslu Circuit or Annapurna Circuit. Because the route is remote and rugged, a flexible schedule is essential.

The trek is considered challenging, both physically and logistically. The trail includes:

Remote wilderness with basic to no infrastructure
Steep ascents and descents
Crossing a high-altitude pass (Rupina La at 4720m)
River crossings, forest trails, and rocky terrain

This trek is recommended for experienced trekkers with good fitness levels and prior high-altitude trekking experience.

The best seasons are:

Spring (March–May) – Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, and moderate temperatures.
Autumn (September–November) – Dry weather, excellent visibility, and cool, stable conditions.

You’ll need:

Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Restricted Area Permit (RAP) if you go beyond certain checkpoints on the Manaslu Circuit

You must be accompanied by a licensed guide. The government also requires a minimum of two trekkers for RAPs.

Expect dramatic and varied landscapes:

Snow-capped peaks like Manaslu (8,163m), Himalchuli, and Ganesh Himal
Deep river gorges, high alpine meadows, glaciers
Lush forests and untouched highland pastures
Remote villages with traditional Gurung and Tibetan culture

The scenery changes drastically from lowland hills to high-altitude desolation, making the trek visually diverse and stunning.

Not at all. This is one of Nepal’s least crowded trekking routes, largely because of its difficulty and lack of infrastructure. You might go days without seeing another trekker, especially in the upper reaches. This makes it a dream for those craving solitude and a true wilderness experience.

Yes, especially when approaching or crossing the Rupina La Pass. The altitude reaches 4,720 meters, and there's minimal infrastructure in case of emergency. To reduce risk:

Acclimatize properly (take rest days)
Ascend gradually
Monitor for symptoms like headaches, nausea, or dizziness

Your guide will help manage altitude concerns, and having a first aid kit and contingency plan is vital.

No, this is not a DIY trek. Due to its remoteness, restricted permit requirements, and lack of infrastructure, the Rupina La Pass Trek must be done through a registered trekking agency with a licensed guide and support staff. Trekking independently is not allowed or advisable.

If you’re an adventurous soul seeking a raw and untouched Himalayan journey, Rupina La is an excellent choice. Unlike Everest or Annapurna, this trail offers:

No crowds
Wild beauty
Authentic local culture
A real sense of exploration

You won’t find flashy lodges or cappuccinos here—just rugged terrain, pure silence, and humble village life. It’s a trek that rewards the brave and the curious with unfiltered Himalayan magic.

Nepal Environmental Treks & Expedition ensures you to provide a well planned itinerary for Rupina La Pass trek. An experienced and highly professional climbing guide will be assigned to each climbing member. All necessary logistics will be taken care from our side. However, we expect to maintain good health and physical condition as well as well good mental preparation from your side.

Additional Information

Below is a list of equipment and clothing required for trekking. The necessity of these items depends on the type, altitude, timing and destination of trekking. Appropriate trekking gears are not only required for the comfort/pleasure of your trek but also to improve safety factor. Please have a look over these items in order to fully prepare and thoroughly enjoy the trekking.

General Items:

Daypack, Rucksack, Sleeping bag, Duffel bag, Walking Poles, walking boots, sandals, Toiletries (Soaps, Toilet papers, Sanitizers, toothpaste, tooth brush, etc.)

Clothing Items:

Thermal underwear, Down jacket, Shorts, Trekking trousers, Towels, Woolen gloves, Gaiters, Fleece jacket or Pullover, Wind/water proof jacket, Raincoat, Warm socks, buff

Sun-worn Items:

Sun hat, Sunglasses, Snow goggles, Sunscreen, Lip balm

Gadgets:

Headlamp, Flash light, Binoculars, Cameras (chargers and batteries),

Liquid/Snacks:

Water bottle/bladder, Water purification Iodine tablets, Energy bars and snacks

Medical Essentials:

First Aid Kit

Optional:

Altimeter, Compass, Binoculars, Books/magazines, GPS, Pocket knife, Candles (for lodges), Notebook with pencil/pen, etc

Additional items for camping trek:

Tent, Stove and fuel, Utensils for cooking, eating and drinking, sleeping mattresses

Note: We can also provide sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, walking poles, and First Aid Kit in case if you don’t have one. These items are inclusive of total package price.

Client Reviews

Geoff and Marion Shepherd and familyBangladesh

We enjoyed the trek

I am writing to tell you how much we enjoyed the trek which you organized for us. As we have three children we were a little concerned about how it would go and how they would cope. However, we were all very well taken care of. Our guide, Bijoy and, two porters, were all very friendly and helpful in every way. Initially our four year old was not pleased about having to be carried by someone she did not know,

Jun 30, 2022

Johan William & Alphonsus JohannesNetherlands Antilles

An everlasting experience.

We did the Rupina La Trek with a Tremendous group. The guide, sherpa, cook and the porters were amazing. Thanks to them, the weather and the breathtaking scenery and walling the trek will be an everlasting experience. We want to thank their energy and especially the group for making this possible for us. We had a marvellous time.

Jun 30, 2022

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