Dharamsala, also called Larkya Phedi, is a basic stone lodge at the foot of the Larkya La on the Manaslu Circuit. It is not a village but a high overnight stop below the pass, at about 4,450 m. Trekkers sleep here so the crossing can start early the next morning.
Altitude: about 4,450 m. Heights quoted for villages and camps vary by source, so treat this as a guide.
Where Dharamsala is and why trekkers stop
Dharamsala sits between Samdo and the Larkya La, and our route pages include Samdo to Dharamsala, Dharamsala to Larkya La Pass, Dharamsala to Bimthang and Dharamsala to Dharapani. Its only purpose is to shorten the pass day. Sleeping here puts you close to the foot of the climb, so the dark early start is less exhausting and you cross while the weather is usually calmer. Dress in layers so you can add or remove clothing without stopping for long.
What to expect at Dharamsala
Expect a plain stone building, a crowded dining room and a stark setting of moraine, rock and cold wind. The place is functional, not comfortable. Meals are simple and served early, and most people turn in soon after eating. Wake up is before dawn on crossing day. Times to and from this stop vary with pace and trail conditions, so ask your guide about the plan and the cut off for turning back.
Altitude and how you may feel
At about 4,450 m, this is the highest regular sleeping stop on the circuit. Headache, nausea, little appetite and broken sleep are very common. Do not ignore worsening symptoms, confusion or loss of balance. When symptoms get worse instead of better, the safe answer is to go down. Weather and snow may also make the pass unsafe, so be ready to wait or turn back.
Lodging, food and practical tips
Rooms are basic dorm style or twin, with thin walls and shared toilets. Food is limited, so carry snacks and electrolyte drinks. Check that your agency has secured the Manaslu restricted-area permits and a licensed guide before departure. Pack a down jacket, warm gloves, a good headlamp with spare batteries, and sunglasses for the glare. Prepare your day pack the night before, and keep water bottles from freezing by storing them upside down inside your sleeping bag.
Stage guides that pass through Dharamsala
These day-by-day guides start or end at Dharamsala, with walking times, ascent and where to sleep.
- Dharamsala to Dharapani trek: stages, altitude and time
- Dharamsala to Larkya La Pass trek: altitude, time and route
- Samdo to Dharamsala trek: altitude, time and route
- Samagaun to Dharamsala trek: stages, altitude and time
- Dharamsala to Bimthang trek: stages, altitude and time
- Namrung to Dharamsala trek: stages, altitude and time
- Lho to Dharamsala trek: stages, altitude and time
Common questions
What is Dharamsala on the Manaslu Circuit?
Dharamsala, also called Larkya Phedi, is a basic stone lodge at the foot of the Larkya La. It exists mainly as an overnight stop before the pass crossing.
How high is Dharamsala?
It is at about 4,450 m, the highest regular overnight stop on the circuit. Headaches and poor sleep are common, and any worsening symptoms mean you should descend.
Why not cross the pass directly from Samdo?
The day would be extremely long and tiring. Sleeping at Dharamsala shortens the crossing and gives you a better chance to get across before afternoon wind and weather.
