The Larkya La is the 5,106 m pass that links the Manaslu valley with the Annapurna side. It is the high point of the Manaslu Circuit, crossed between Dharamsala and Bimthang. The route down joins the Annapurna Circuit trail, so you may meet trekkers coming from both directions.
Altitude: about 5,106 m. Heights quoted for villages and camps vary by source, so treat this as a guide.
Where the Larkya La is and why trekkers cross
The pass lies between Dharamsala, also called Larkya Phedi, and Bimthang on the western side. Our stage pages include Dharamsala to Larkya La Pass, Samdo to Larkya La Pass and Larkya La Pass to Bimthang. Trekkers cross it to complete the circuit rather than retrace their steps, and it is the physical and scenic climax of the walk, with big views of surrounding peaks. Tea breaks are part of trail life here, so build them into your day.
What the crossing is like
Crossing day starts in the dark and is long, with a steady climb over moraine and possibly snow, a windy top and then a long descent to Bimthang. Many people find the descent harder on the knees than the climb is on the lungs. Poles help. The total time varies with pace, snow and trail conditions, so rely on your guide's judgement about when to turn back. Travel insurance that covers trekking at altitude and helicopter evacuation is strongly advised.
Altitude and how you may feel
At 5,106 m, the pass is the highest point of the trek. Cold, wind and thin air can combine, and headache, nausea or fatigue are common. You only spend a short time at the top, then descend a lot, which helps most people. If symptoms worsen before the top, turn back. Fitness does not protect you from altitude illness. Carry some toilet paper and hand sanitiser, since supplies in lodges can run out.
Practical tips and permits
Wear layered clothing, a windproof shell, warm gloves, a hat and sunglasses, and carry water and snacks. Crampons or microspikes may be needed after snow. The restricted status of Manaslu means a licensed guide and permits from a registered agency are not optional. Conditions can close the pass, so keep a spare day in your schedule. Start early, stay with your guide and do not split from the group, because visibility and trail marks can change quickly.
Stage guides that pass through Larkya La
These day-by-day guides start or end at Larkya La, with walking times, ascent and where to sleep.
- Dharamsala to Larkya La Pass trek: altitude, time and route
- Lho to Larkya La Pass trek: stages, altitude and time
- Samdo to Larkya La Pass trek: stages, altitude and time
- Samagaun to Larkya La Pass trek: stages, altitude and time
Common questions
How high is the Larkya La?
The Larkya La is 5,106 m, according to our route pages. It links the Manaslu valley with the Annapurna side and is the highest point on the Manaslu Circuit.
Where do you sleep before and after the Larkya La?
Most trekkers sleep at Dharamsala, also called Larkya Phedi, before the pass and at Bimthang after it. Samdo to Bimthang in one day is possible only in unusual cases.
Can the Larkya La be closed by weather?
Yes. Snow, wind and poor visibility can delay or stop a crossing. That is why itineraries include spare days. Your guide decides whether it is safe, and turning back is a normal option.
