Rupina La Treks is organized for the ones who love walking in the high mountain region throughout their long holidays in Nepal. This is one of the newly opened beautiful and courageous trekking routes in the Manaslu region. This trekking provides us an opportunity to approach both Himalayan human culture and pure nature. Rupina La trekking route is only accessible during October. It is one of difficult trekking route in other months. after pass, a route is full of narrow and rocky trails one hours and glaciers. However, We go to Barpak via 12 kilos (near Gorkha) from Kathmandu by bus and stay there overnight. Then we walk through a big and beautiful Gurung village, Barpak, in the direction of the everlasting snow peaks. Barpak, a beautiful Gurung village of Gorkha was the epicenter of the devastating earthquake (7.8 Magnitude) that took place on 25th of April 2015. The entire village was totally ruined by the earthquake. At least 25 people and many domestic animals: buffaloes, cows, goats, sheep, hens etc were buried and killed. Many were adversely injured. Out of the 1400 houses of Barpak and Laprak, only 41 were standing safely. Up to Barpak the telephone service is available and after this, there will be no communication service available for about a week ahead until we reach Nyak before we start trekking in Tsum Valley region.
After leaving the inhabited areas we climb up hills with beautiful forests. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition leader make arrangement for acclimatization may be a whole day and night in some points. The Bauddha Himal (6672 meters) is the spectacular white top at the end of the steep valley and the first high peak of Manaslu massif. The Rupina La itself is a fairly steep pass. Under unfavorable conditions, for example, a lot of snow, fixed ropes are applied. The view is incredible: the Manaslu chain begins right beside us and down into the depths we can see the Chhilung Khola, where the path runs over it, already. The glacier itself is passable and the view both towards Ganesh Himal and the nearby places is great.
Detail Itinerary :
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1337m)
Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu (1337m)
Day 03 Kathmandu – Barpak (1915 m) 7-8 hours
Day04: Barpak – Kishir Kharka (2900m) 4- 5 hours
Day05: Kisir Kharka – Thulo Rushikharka camp (3440m) 6-7hours
Day 06: Samrung Kharka Base camp (3800m) 5-6 hours
Day 07: Samrung Kahrka Rest/Acclimatization
Day 08: Samrung Kharka- Rupina La (4720m) – Baudha Himal BC (3600m) 6-7 hours
Day 19: Baudha Himal BC- Zhong Khaka (2960m)5- 6 hours
Day 10: Zhong Khaka- Ngyak (2340m) 5-6 hours
Day 11: Ngyak – Philim (1570m) 3-4 hours
Day 12: Philim – Dobhan (1070m) 3-4hours
Day 14: Dobhan – Machhikhola (869m) 3-4 hours
Day 15: Machhikhola – Soti Khola – Kathmandu 7-8hours drive
Day 16: Shopping /Rest in Kathmandu Or Sightseeing in Bhaktapur (1401) 3-4 hours
Day 17: Departure from Kathmandu (1337m)
Important Information:
Our Guest’s security is of dominant concern to Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition. Please understand that the HV Treks trekking leader has the authority to adjust or cancel any part of the itinerary if it is found prudent. Unfavorable circumstances may occur during the trek. Such as dangerous weather conditions, the condition of a group member, natural events like landslides, can force changes in the itinerary. All efforts will be made to keep to the planned itinerary. The HV Treks leader will try his/her best to ensure that the trip goes smoothly and according to plan, but please be ready to be flexible if necessary. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition is capable, experienced, and prepared to give a 24-hour emergency response to an accident or condition that requires attention or evacuation.
Himalayan Vacation Treks & Expedition requires that trekking and expedition guests have Insurance Policies. A Travel Insurance Policy should cover the cost of emergencies (including altitude sickness), injuries, and evacuations. Please, it is essential to bring your Travel Insurance Policy, or copies of your pertinent existing insurance coverage with you to Nepal. HV Treks will require a copy for our office records. We, as well, advise you to inform your existing insurance agent/company of your itinerary, including trekking, climbing, and hiking, and insure your current policy provides sufficient coverage.
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1337m)
You are welcomed to Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal renowned for historical monuments, Hindu Temples, and Buddhist Stupas/Monasteries. We meet our guests at the Tribhuvan International Airport. A representative will be waiting with a Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition placard with our guests’ names displayed. After dropping luggage at the hotel, guests are taken for a short sightseeing tour. In the evening, guests are invited to a Welcome Dinner at a Nepali restaurant.
Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu (1337m)
A local guide will be available. According to your wishes, the guide will escort you for sightseeing. Sightseeing may include the Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupati, Boudhanath, Patan Durbar Square, and the Swoyambhunath areas. Starting after breakfast, usually at 9.00am, the exploration of Kathmandu Valley can continue until 5.00pm. Lunch and dinner, you will be responsible for.
Day 03 Kathmandu – Barpak (1915 m) 7-8 hours
Today, we start trekking from Kathmandu. We begin our trekking with a bus ride from Kathmandu. We pass through Thankot , the gate point of Kathmandu Valley. We follow Prithivi Highway which contains many uphill and downhill fine tarred road. We follow the famous river Trishuli until we reach Mugling. After 15 minutes bus ride from Mugling., we reach Khaireni and diverted to 12 Kilo leaving Kathmandu Pokhara Highway. From 12 Kilo we follow Daraudi river via Chhepetar . We follow offroad from Chhepetar .reach Baluwa and We stay overnight Barpak.
Day04: Barpak – Kishir Kharka (2900m) 4- 5 hours
Today we leave Barpak as well as the inhabited world for about a week ahead. No telephone service will be available too. We walk behind some waterfall, streams, and rivulets. Occasionally we see signs of human life. In the summer, shepherds stay here on the hillsides for grazing their cattle. We can see beautiful rhododendron forest on the way to Kisir kharka We see several summer huts. From now on we follow a ridge towards the Rupina La. That means we always have beautiful views in good weather: we can see the massive south face of Baudha Himal. We walk through a beautiful forest, full of mosses, red and blueberries and purple orchids.
The path goes flat today in the beginning. Then we climb almost along the Daraudi Khola. We cross Pauko Khola on the way through a wooden bridge. We then gradually head to the campsite, KisirKharka, a pasture. The sunset view on the Bhauda Himal is stunning.
Day05: Kisir Kharka – Thulo Rushikharka camp (3440m) 6-7hours
The nature of the path for today also is almost the same as yesterday. It takes us through rhododendron forests and past abandoned pastures. We see many waterfalls and wild raspberries. We often cross a tributary and walk through beautiful old-growth forests. We camp on a large, spacious place in a summer meadow surrounded by forest. Hence it is called Forest Camp. The view from the camp is just the green hills around.
Day 06: Samrung Kharka Base camp (3800m) 5-6 hours
We gradually climb along the Daraudi River and walk at first by the beautiful backwoods. We cross a wooden bridge over the Doraundi Khola and we walk on the path above the tree line. From time to time we find our way over a big rock in the riverbed. The Rupina La is not yet seen. We walk to the Samrung Kharka base camp that lies at 3800 meters. The camp is in an open area.
Day 07: Samrung Kahrka Rest/Acclimatization
Today is a rest day, especially for the acclimatization. For getting better or to be used to the altitude we may take a walk to a beautiful mountain lake: the Narte Pokhari where the Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition trekking guide will lead us. Also, we can prepare as well as possible for the crossing of the La Rupina the next day.
Day 08: Samrung Kharka- Rupina La (4720m) – Baudha Himal BC (3600m) 6-7 hours
We climb continuously for about four hours to reach the pass at 4720 meters. It is an awful pass from where the views are superb including the view of Baudha Himal in a far away distance. The way down is steep, long and difficult too. Deep down we see the big and incredible Glacier that emerges from Gorkha Himal and Baudha Himal and named as Chhilung Khola where we’re going to walk the next day. We camp at Baudha Himal BC at the altitude of 4000 meters.
Day 09: Baudha Himal BC- Zhong Khaka (2960m)5- 6 hours
Today the path goes down. It will be a long walking with a lot of variety in the landscape today. The landscape slowly becomes less barren and we come through beautiful larch and birch forests. We walk through the moraine of the glacier that emerges from Gorkha Himal and Baudha Himal, the glacier has formed Chhilung Khola. It is climbing and climbing, cairns show us the way. We walk along the Chhilung River and the path goes up and down with short, steep pieces. We come in bamboo and rhododendron forests. We cross many tributaries through the bridges. We camp at Zhong Khaka for the night.
Day 10: Zhong Khaka- Ngyak (2340m) 5-6 hours
The path contour along the mountainside. We pass through areas of forest, but we also regularly get a spectacular view in the front and behind of us: in the front rise the five peaks of the Ganesh Himal and behind of us we see the peaks of the Manaslu chain. Far below, we see is the deep gorge of the Budi Gandaki River. At the end of the day, we walk down along a steep path to Ngyak, a beautiful, authentic Gurung village. We can see the houses of the primitive and traditional type here.
Day 11: Ngyak – Philim (1570m) 3-4 hours
Today we slowly walk steeply down through an old and difficult t path to the river. At the end of the path, at Ngyak Phedi, we are on the route of the trek to Round Manaslu. We cross a new bridge at the point where two rivers: Lalung Khola that comes from Manaslu area and Siyar Khola that come from Tsum Valley meet each other. Then again we descend into the valley of the great Budi Gandaki. We arrive at the village of Philim. A check post of Manaslu Conservation Area Project lies here. Philim is a big and beautiful Gurung village. We can visit Chhyoling Sandu Gumba here. This is the view of Sringi Himal. From this point, the telephone service is available ahead. We spend the night here.
Day 12: Philim – Dobhan (1070m) 3-4hours
In the beginning, we cross a big suspension bridge over Budhi Gandaki after Philim. We now walk through the Round Manaslu Trek route in reverse. The first part leads through a magnificent gorge with vertical walls and along the feral Budhi Gandaki river. Through several villages, we reach the fairly large village of Jagat where the main check post of Manaslu Conservation Area Project lies. We cross a bridge and rock falling and then we head to Dobhan through Yaruphant, a very big cultivable land, enjoying the views of waterfall and others on the way. We spend the night in Dobhan.
Day 14: Dobhan – Machhikhola (869m) 3-4 hours
Today also we walk along the Budhi Gandaki river. The path winds both sides of the whirling flow over the cliffs chopped paths. Sometimes high above the river, sometimes right next to where the sound is deafening. The warm air begins to blow through the green forest since we are walking down in the low land gradually. We walk down to Machhikhola through Khorlabeshi. Machhakhola means the stream where enough fish is available. From here North-East face of Ganesh Himal is seen magnificent.
Day 15: Machhikhola – Soti Khola – Kathmandu 7-8hours drive
From Machhikhola to Kathmandu we drive by bus/private vehicle. The road goes through the Budhi Gandaki River up to Arughat Bazaar. From Arughat, the road is blacktopped which finally meets the Prithvi Highway. It takes about 7-8 hours drive.
Day 16: Shopping /Rest in Kathmandu Or Sightseeing in Bhaktapur (1401) 3-4 hours
This day is free too. If you wish, a sightseeing trip to the ancient temple/king’s seat of the world heritage site of incredible Bhaktapur can be arranged. The tour lasts 4 hours and will cost an additional upcharge. In the evening, a Farewell Dinner is given by Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition.
Day 17: Departure from Kathmandu (1337m)
Today, we check the list of all necessary documents and goods of our guest. We confirm the flight tickets before 72 hours of departure flight. We advise our guest to put passport and tickets at their handbag for convenience. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition staff representative will take our valuable guests to the airport (3 hours prior to your flight) and bid goodbye.
Minimum number of participants: 4
Maximum number of participants: 12
Max Altitude: 4720 meters
Best Season: April to October
Difficulty Level: Slightly Hard
December, January, and February
It is called the winter season in Nepal. It is a season for snowfall in mountain region above 4300m in Nepal. So trekking is possible below 4500m during this period. This season is noted for occasional snowfall at higher elevations in the Himalayas. Though it gets colder in a night, often it offers the clear day / blue sky and relatively fewer trekkers on the trail. Sunrise and Sunset are seen very clear and beautiful in this season. So tourist who wants to pass short holidays during this period Himalayan vacation Treks and Expedition welcomes to see a splendid view of nature. During this period, we arrange a family tour to experience natural beauty with short hikes and cultural tour. It is suitable for homestay tour through which different rituals and culture can be experienced during this period. The famous homestay like Sailung Timal homestay,Timal homestay, Tamang Heritage Homestay, Ghalegaon Homestay are the special places to visit.
March, April, and May
It is spring season which is known as trekking season in Nepal. A smooth wind and gentle breeze are felt all over the country. Sunny days and clear weather are the supportive factors for trekking in this season. Presence of a cloud can be seen in the sky during this season. So a short rainfall can be felt during this period. It is the season of an expedition and climbing high peaks in Nepal. So many tourists from different parts of the world come to climb peaks above 7000m in this season. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition arranges tour and journey for climbing during this period. Peak climbing period can be in length up to June so Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition arranges attractive programmes during this period. This period offers plenty of opportunities for clear mountain views. It is also the time for flowers to blossom, and the national flower of Nepal – rhododendrons – coat the mountainsides with its colorful beauty throughout the spring.
June, July, and August
It is rainy season in Nepal. As it is the season of heavy rainfall. it is also known as the crops harvesting season in Nepal. In this season, trekking is slightly difficult in Nepal. These times are blessed for the keen botanist as the higher valleys and meadows blossom with flowers and lush vegetation. Trekking in the rain-shadow (places are out of reach of the rain clouds because of the high mountains) areas north of the Himalaya like Upper Mustang and Dolpo could be an ideal trek selection. However, Himalayan vacation Treks and Expedition arranges tour and trek during this period in dry areas. We arrange treks and tour in dry areas like Mustang, Upper Dolpa, Leh Ladakh (India) and Tibet.
September, October, and November
Moderate temperatures, clear sky with outstanding views, making it a great time to do any of our treks. Occasional short storms may dump snow at high altitudes. This is the season of feast and festivals. This is also known as the special season for flowers in Nepal. Marigold is popular and found best in this season. Temples and holy places are visited during this period. Festivals like Dashain, Tihar and Chhath are celebrated during this season. Long national holidays are offered for this festival for civil workers. This season is known as the king of the season. No rainfall, sunny days and moderate temperature are the most favorable factors of this season for treks and tours in Nepal. Every kind of treks and tours can be done during this period. So many tourists come to see beautiful Nepal in this season. Many trekking routes are full of tourist during this season. Peaks 6000m to 7000m is the best destination for climbing in this season. Himalayan Vacation Treks and Expedition welcomes tourist to feel the splendid view of nature of Nepal in this season.
This list is a guideline to help you pack for your adventure. Please understand that the items listed below will vary according to the season and the duration of the trek. The weight limit for your luggage is 33 pounds or 12 kg. Your gear will be carried by your porter and you will be required to carry your own day-pack (with your valuables and things of immediate importance to you). We also suggest that you pack only what is necessary. Our list of equipment is prepared on the basis of our long experience. The Himalayan Vacation Trek & Expedition Team leader will check your gear to ensure you have all the necessary equipment at the start of the trek. If necessary, the HVTreks’ guide will request additions of necessary equipment when and where it is available.
Important documents and items
Head
Upper Body
Hands
Lower Body
Feet
Sleeping
Rucksack and Travel Bags
Medical
-Note: In the larger towns and cities of Nepal, pharmacies have available common over-the-counter pharmaceuticals. Western/foreign brand name products and prescription drugs are not. We suggest you bring the pharmaceuticals you use in enough quantity.
Practical Items
