Lokpa is a village at about 2,240 m on the Manaslu Circuit, reached after Philim and Chisapani. It is the junction where the side trail into Tsum Valley turns north, so it is both a place to sleep and the point where many Tsum trekkers start and finish their valley walk.
Altitude: about 2,240 m. Heights quoted for villages and camps vary by source, so treat this as a guide.
Where Lokpa is and why trekkers stop
Lokpa lies in Gorkha district, on the main Manaslu trail, just before the route splits. One branch continues up the Budhi Gandaki toward Deng, Namrung and Samagaon. The other enters Tsum Valley and heads north toward the Tibetan border.
Trekkers stop here because the day ahead changes character. Anyone adding Tsum to the circuit usually walks in and out along the same valley, then returns to Lokpa to rejoin the main route. That makes it a natural reference point when counting days for a Tsum extension.
What to expect at Lokpa
Expect a modest settlement strung along the trail rather than a bustling town, with a handful of simple places to eat and rest. The valley is steep and forested around here, and the trail has narrow sections cut into the hillside, with suspension bridges and rocky stretches earlier in the day.
The feel is of a working mountain village at the edge of wilder country. You will meet porters, mule trains and local families, and the pace is quiet in the evening. It makes a good spot to repack and check your permits before the quieter side valley.
Altitude and how you may feel
At about 2,240 m Lokpa is high enough to notice on a first morning, but most trekkers feel fine here. A little breathlessness on climbs is normal, and a light headache can appear if you arrived quickly. Drink plenty of water and keep a gentle pace.
The valley beyond climbs on to Chumling, where the sleeping altitude rises only slightly, then higher at Chhokangparo. Because of that, treat Lokpa as the start of your acclimatisation. Altitude illness can still strike later, and descending is the answer if symptoms get worse.
Lodging, food and practical tips
Teahouse lodging here is basic: simple rooms, shared toilets and dal bhat or similar hot meals. Bring a sleeping bag liner and cash, since cards do not work in these villages and supplies are limited. Charging and hot showers may cost extra or be unavailable.
Both the Manaslu and Tsum areas are restricted, so you need the right restricted-area permits and a licensed guide arranged through a registered agency. Carry copies of the permits, as they are checked at points along the trail.
Common questions
Why is Lokpa important on the Manaslu Circuit?
Lokpa is where the Tsum Valley side trail leaves the main Manaslu route. Trekkers either continue to Deng and Namrung or turn north into Tsum, and those who go into Tsum come back to Lokpa to rejoin the circuit.
How long is a Tsum Valley extension from Lokpa?
As an add-on, Tsum Valley typically takes about six to eight days from Lokpa and back, depending on how far you go and how many rest days you take. Shorter versions stop at Chhokangparo or Nile.
Do I need a permit and guide at Lokpa?
Yes. Manaslu and Tsum Valley are restricted areas, so you need restricted-area permits and a licensed guide arranged through a registered agency. Independent trekking is not allowed on this route.
