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Nepal, a paradise for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts, boasts numerous hidden gems beyond its famous trekking routes. One such breathtaking yet lesser-explored trek is the Rupina-La Pass Trek. Nestled within the Manaslu region, this off-the-beaten-path trek offers a pristine and exhilarating experience. This article covers everything you need to know about the Rupina-La Pass Trek 2025/26, including group joining, cost, permit details, and fixed departure dates. If you are considering celebrating Christmas in the Himalayas, Rupina-La Pass Trek is an excellent choice!
The Rupina-La Pass Trek is a spectacular high-altitude trek that takes you through remote villages, lush forests, glacial rivers, and alpine meadows, offering stunning views of Mt. Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and the Annapurna range. This trek is perfect for those seeking solitude and an unspoiled trekking route in Nepal.
Maximum Altitude: 4,720m (15,486 ft)
Duration: 12 Days
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
Best Season: Spring (March–May) & Autumn (September–November)
Starting Point: Gorkha
Ending Point: Dharapani (Annapurna Circuit trail)
For adventure lovers planning their next Himalayan trekking experience, the Rupina-La Pass Trek booking for 2025/26 is now open. The best trekking organizers, such as Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks, provide well-organized itineraries and expert guidance for an unforgettable journey.
For those preferring to trek in a group, group joining treks are a cost-effective and fun way to explore the Himalayas while meeting fellow adventurers. Fixed departures ensure you have a well-organized trek with a set itinerary.
March 15, 2025
April 10, 2025
May 5, 2025
September 20, 2025
October 15, 2025
November 5, 2025
December 20, 2025 (Christmas Special)
The cost of trekking varies based on factors such as group size, services included, and the season. Here’s a breakdown:
USD 2,000 – 2,200 (Includes permits, guide, food, accommodation, and transportation)
USD 1,400 – 1,800 per person (Lower cost due to shared services)
USD 3,000 – 3,500 for two people (Includes private services and personalized experience)
Since Rupina-La Pass falls within the Manaslu Conservation Area, multiple permits are required:
Manaslu Restricted Area Permit (MRAP): USD 75–100 per week (varies by season)
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): USD 30 per person
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): USD 30 per person
TIMS Card: USD 20 per person
Kathmandu to Gorkha (Starting Point): USD 10–20 (Local Bus), USD 200–250 (Private Jeep)
Dharapani to Kathmandu (Ending Point): USD 20–30 (Shared Jeep), USD 200 (Private Jeep)
Professional Trekking Guide: USD 30–40 per day
Female Guide: USD 35–45 per day
USD 20–30 per day (Carries up to 25 kg)
Porter-Cum-Guide: USD 25–35 per day (Ideal for budget trekkers)
Food: USD 5–10 per meal
Accommodation: USD 5–20 per night (Teahouse/Lodge)
Drinking Water: USD 1–3 per liter (Boiled or bottled)
Spring (March–May): Best for blooming rhododendrons and clear views.
Autumn (September–November): Ideal weather with the most stable conditions.
Winter (December–February): Challenging due to heavy snowfall.
Monsoon (June–August): Not recommended due to landslides and rain.
Acclimatize properly and take rest days.
Drink plenty of water.
Avoid alcohol and smoking.
Carry Diamox if needed.
Descend if symptoms persist.
Duration: 14 Days
Cost: USD 1,000–1,400
Duration: 12–21 Days
Cost: USD 1,200–1,500
Permit Cost: USD 40–70 per week
Total Trek Cost: USD 1,000–1,200
USD 1,700–2,000
Warm layers and down jacket
Trekking boots and gaiters
Sleeping bag (-15°C)
Sunglasses, gloves, and hat
Trekking poles
First-aid kit and water purification tablets
The Manaslu region is home to diverse ethnic groups, including Gurungs, Tamangs, and Tibetans. You will witness Buddhist monasteries, prayer flags, and traditional villages. The locals are warm and welcoming, offering a unique insight into Himalayan culture.
For a well-organized, safe, and unforgettable trekking experience, choosing a reliable trekking company is crucial. Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks is among the best trekking companies in Nepal, providing expert guides, excellent logistics, and customized services.
The Rupina-La Pass Trek is an incredible adventure for trekkers seeking remote trails, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural immersion. Whether you are joining a group, trekking solo, or planning a special Adventure trek, this journey is one of the most rewarding experiences in Nepal.
For bookings and inquiries, contact Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks and embark on a lifetime adventure in the Himalayas!
The Rupina La Pass Trek is considered moderately difficult. It involves steep ascents, descents, and rugged terrain, requiring a good level of physical fitness and prior trekking experience.
The best time for the Rupina La Pass Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is relatively stable, offering clear skies and moderate temperatures, ideal for trekking.
The Rupina La Pass Trek organized by Himalayan Adventure Intl typically lasts around 16 days, including arrival and departure days. This duration allows for acclimatization, exploration, and a safe trekking experience.
For the Rupina La Pass Trek, permits such as the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card and the Manaslu Restricted Area Permit are necessary. Himalayan Adventure Intl assists in obtaining these permits, and trekkers need to provide necessary identification documents for processing.
The highest point of the Rupina La Pass Trek is the Rupina La Pass itself, reaching an altitude of approximately 4,720 meters (15,485 feet) above sea level. Proper acclimatization and gradual ascent are crucial to mitigate altitude-related risks.
Accommodation during the Rupina La Pass Trek includes a combination of teahouses, lodges, and camping depending on the route and availability. Meals typically consist of a variety of Nepali, Tibetan, and international dishes, providing balanced nutrition to sustain trekkers throughout the journey.
The Rupina-La Pass Trek is a hidden gem in the Gorkha region of Nepal, lying north of the Manaslu Conservation Area. This newly popularised off-the-beaten-path trekking route offers pristine wilderness, authentic Gurung and Tibetan culture, panoramic views of Himalchuli (7893m), Manaslu (8163m), and Ganesh Himal ranges, and an exhilarating high pass crossing at Rupina-La (4720m). For true adventurers seeking remote trails away from crowded commercial treks, Rupina-La Pass is a lifetime experience.
Less crowded and peaceful trails
Cultural immersion in Gurung, Ghale, Tibetan villages
Unique alpine wilderness, glacial moraines, forested gorges
Challenging high pass crossing for experienced trekkers
Can be combined with Manaslu Circuit or Tsum Valley
Himalayan Adventure International Treks announces booking open for Rupina-La Pass Trek 2025/26 season with best guides, safety-first logistics, and flexible itineraries tailored for solo, group join, and private trips.
For international trekkers booking a standard 14-16 day trek, expect a cost ranging from:
USD $1100 – $1600 per person
(based on group size, inclusions, and operator)
This usually includes:
Airport pick-up/drop
KTM-Barpak-KTM ground transport
All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during trek
Tea-house or tented accommodation
Government-licensed guide & porter
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
Special Restricted Area Permit (if combined with Tsum or Manaslu Circuit)
TIMS card
First aid, oxygen backup (depending on operator)
Administrative and government taxes
USD $1400 – $1800
(Higher due to single supplement, guide & porter alone, private tent setup if camping required.)
USD $1200 – $1550 per person
(Cost reduces when 3+ trekkers join as permits, transport, and guide expenses are shared.)
USD $1150 – $1450 per person
(Private service with shared double accommodation.)
For Indian trekkers, costs are slightly lower due to SAARC permit rates and Nepal’s dual pricing system:
INR 65,000 – 95,000 per person
(Depending on inclusion/exclusion of KTM hotel, jeep vs. bus transport, and porter ratio.)
USD $1200 – $1500 per person for 2-4 pax
USD $1100 – $1300 per person for 5+ pax
If you hire independently:
Guide: USD $25 – $35 per day
Porter: USD $20 – $25 per day
Includes salary, food, accommodation, insurance
Himalayan Adventure International Treks ensures professional English-speaking guides with extensive experience in Rupina-La and Manaslu region.
When booked with a trekking company, these are included. If you trek independently:
Food: NPR 800 – 1200 per meal (in remote tea-houses)
Accommodation: NPR 500 – 800 per night (basic tea-house)
Some areas require camping (additional tent, cook, kitchen crew costs ~$35/day per person if arranged privately)
Kathmandu to Gorkha/Arughat (jeep/bus): USD $20 – $35 per person
Return from Besisahar or Dharapani: USD $25 – $35 per person
Private jeeps are faster and more comfortable but costlier (~USD $150 per vehicle one way).
Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP): NPR 3000 (~USD $23)
Restricted Area Permit (RAP): Not required solely for Rupina-La Pass, but needed if extending into Manaslu Circuit above Jagat.
TIMS Card: NPR 2000 (~USD $15)
All permits are arranged by Himalayan Adventure International Treks before trek departure.
Moisture-wicking base layers
Insulating fleece or down jacket
Waterproof windproof jacket and pants
Trekking trousers
Thermal innerwear
Warm hat, sun hat, buff
Sturdy broken-in trekking boots
Camp sandals
Woolen and synthetic socks
Sleeping bag (rated to -10°C to -15°C)
Trekking poles
Headlamp with extra batteries
Sunglasses with UV protection
Backpack (50-60L) with rain cover
Dry bags / ziplocks for waterproofing
Sunscreen SPF 50+
Lip balm with SPF
Personal toiletries & medications
Water purification tablets or filter
First aid kit (blister care, Diamox, painkillers)
Extra passport photos and copies
Snacks, energy bars
Power bank, camera, chargers
Tip: For camping treks, your operator provides tents, kitchen gear, dining setup, and carries group equipment.
Spring (March – May): Rhododendron blooms, clear skies, moderate temperatures.
Autumn (September – November): Best weather, crystal-clear mountain views, stable trails.
Winter (Dec – Feb): Possible but extremely cold at pass, snow may block trails.
Monsoon (June – Aug): Not recommended due to landslides, leeches, poor visibility.
Headache, nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath, insomnia
Gradual ascent with acclimatization days
Hydrate well (3-4 liters/day)
Avoid alcohol and smoking
Eat sufficient carbs
Consider Diamox (125mg morning/evening) with medical consultation
Descend immediately if symptoms worsen
Rupina-La’s gradual approach reduces AMS risk but the high pass day requires fitness and acclimatization awareness.
Kathmandu → Gorkha → Barpak (start point) by public bus or private jeep (7-8 hours)
Return via Machi Khola → Arughat → Kathmandu
No direct flights to trailheads. Nearest domestic airport is Pokhara (not useful for Rupina-La direct entry). Road transport is standard.
Hassle-free, includes permits, logistics, insurance, and reliable local staff.
Recommendation: For Rupina-La’s remote trails, always hire through a registered operator like Himalayan Adventure International Treks to ensure safety, emergency evacuation support, and proper wages/insurance for staff.
✅ Decade-long expertise in Manaslu and Gorkha trekking
✅ Professional English-speaking guides and strong porters
✅ Fair wages, insurance, and ethical treatment of crew
✅ Flexible itineraries for solo, couples, and group join trips
✅ Safety-first policy with medical kits, satellite phone access
✅ Best price guarantee with no hidden costs
If you seek an untouched Himalayan adventure with cultural authenticity and raw wilderness, Rupina-La Pass Trek is your perfect choice in 2025/26. Whether you are trekking solo, as a couple, or in a group, Himalayan Adventure International Treks offers custom packages with safe, professional, and cost-effective services to make your journey memorable.
For booking inquiries, customized quotes, or upcoming fixed departure dates for group join Rupina-La Pass Treks, contact:
📧 info@himalayanadventureintl.com
🌐 www.himalayanadventureintl.com
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