Kathmandu- A new trekking route has been introduced in the Manaslu region—the Rubina La Trek. The trail passes through three rural municipalities of Gorkha District: Dharche, Barpak Sulikot, and Chumnubri. Trekkers departing from Kathmandu can complete this journey in nine days. Two nights must be spent in hotels at the start and endpoint of the trek, while the remaining seven nights require staying in available shelters, as camping is not an option.
The highlight of this biodiversity-rich trail is the Rubina La Pass (4,730 meters). From this stunning vantage point, trekkers are rewarded with panoramic views of Rani Himal, Gorkha Himal, Buddha Himal, Charachurungi Himal, Shyala Peak, Himalchuli, and many other peaks of the Himalayan range.
-1763966032.jpg)
On the day after crossing the pass, trekkers walking beyond Mechet must traverse a 1,200-meter-long stretch of avalanche debris, where large boulders lie atop snowfields—some even sprouting blue pine (Gobresalla). Because of this challenging terrain, an experienced guide is essential.
-1763966204.jpg)
Along the trail above Jongchet lies Jheltrang Cave, famous for the 108 natural springs nearby. Every year during Baisakhe Chandi Purnima, a great fair is held here. Buddhists from Lower and Upper Manaslu visit the site to bathe and perform rituals. Tourism entrepreneur Sane Gurung explains: “They bathe, perform worship rituals, hoist prayer flags inscribed with Buddhist mantras, and make vows for the fulfillment of their wishes.” The trail also features two natural stone bridges and is rich in medicinal herbs. According to Amchis—traditional Himalayan healers—various types of herbal plants thrive in this high-altitude region. Wildlife such as musk deer, bears, snow leopards, ghoral, nawar, langur, porcupines, danphe, monal, and kalij pheasants also inhabit the area.
-1763966322.jpg)
Most parts of the trekking route are in good condition. However, between Rubina La Pass andThadophuk (Odhār), rockfall can occur, so trekkers must proceed with caution. A dramatic sight awaits on the slopes of Buddha Himal, where frequent avalanches cascade down—though they do not affect the trail.The Rubina La Trek is particularly suitable for young trekkers. Completing it also helps with acclimatization, making it easier to cross the Larke Pass afterward. Recent development efforts have improved the trail, including the construction of several rest shelters (dharmashalas) at Mamche Pass, Lamrakhark, Rusikhark, Mircha Khola, Rubina La Base, Mechet, Jongchet, Utekhark, Ruksung, and Serang Khark. A helipad has also been built at the Rubina La high camp. These projects were carried out with the support of local municipalities and the Tourism Department.
Trekkers completing the Rubina La route can continue onward to Tsum Valley, Upper Manaslu, or even Ganesh Himal Base Camp. With its unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and spiritual atmosphere, the future of the Rubina La Trek looks exceptionally bright.
Sane Gurung: The “Snow Leopard of Rubina La”
Sane Gurung—born in Yam village of Dharche Rural Municipality, Ward No. 5—has dedicated much of his life to the mountains. Now 58, he has spent 27 years in tourism. Beginning as a porter, he now works as a seasoned trekking guide. He has been instrumental in the branding, development, and promotion of Dharche Hill Station and the Rubina La Trek.
-1763966459.jpg)
Dharche (3,220 meters), from where 41 mountains are visible, is a destination worth visiting, especially for those who enjoy short yet rewarding treks. To support local tourism development, Gurung founded the Dharche Manaslu Tourism Development Committee. He has been working for the improvement of Dharche since 2008 (2065 B.S.) and promoting Rubina La since 2006 (2063 B.S.). Those who know him well affectionately call him “the Snow Leopard of Rubina La.” Whether accompanying groups or trekking alone, he is constantly exploring, serving, and protecting this unique region. “There is no possibility of the Rubina La trail being disrupted by a motor road,” he says. “For tourists looking for a week-long trekking experience, this is an incomparable destination.” Warm wishes to Sane Gurung—the true Snow Leopard of Rubina La—for his tireless dedication to the development of this extraordinary trekking route.
Contact: Sane Gurung – 9841902187
Suggested 9-Day Itinerary
Day 1
Kathmandu → Barpak (1,930 m) — 184 km by vehicle
Day 2
Barpak → Mamche → Laprak New Settlement (2,600 m) — 5 hours trekking
Day 3
Laprak New Settlement → Rusi Khark (3,260 m) — 7 hours trekking
Day 4
Rusi Khark → Rubina La Base (3,800 m) — 7 hours trekking
Day 5
Rubina La Base → Mechet (3,850 m) — 8 hours trekking
Day 6
Mechet → Jongchet (3,250 m) — 7 hours trekking
Day 7
Jongchet → Nyak Village (2,200 m) — 8 hours trekking
Day 8
Nyakfedi → Jagat (1,400 m) — 8 hours trekking
Day 9
Jagat → Kathmandu — 8 hours by vehicle
-1711710652-1758874130-1764145113.jpg)
