NAMUN LA PASS TRAVERSE TREKS
Trip Facts
Overview
Namun-La Pass Traverse Treks with the guidance of Dhan Kumar Rai. An expert and veteran guide of the Nepalese company Kirat Society Adventure and Hiking.
Namun-La Pass Traverse Treks an adventure that leads you from south-east Annapurna Himalayas to Manang areas, close between Lamjung Himal.
An exciting trek around the hidden pockets of Annapurna Himalayan ranges. Namun-La Pass region is almost forgotten to the outside world.
Only a small group of trekkers seldom ventures and dares crossing this remote high Rambrong Ridge ridges, and Namun-La Pass.
This scenic pass is the shortest gateway to Manang district and Masrsyangdi River Valley, from southern Annapurna and Kaski areas.
In early days only a few natives of these areas used this isolated route for trades and bartering. At present this mountainous route is well maintained by ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project). However, there are few technical sections, where trekkers have to take precautionary measures, especially in deep snow conditions.
Nevertheless, it is one of the raw and exciting countries to enjoy the adventures far from mainstream trekking trails. It joins the popular and famous Annapurna Circuit route at Timang and Dharapani Villages in Manang.
The adventure begins from the scenic city in Pokhara, the journey takes you to the north-east of Annapurna Himalayan ranges. Where a lovely Siklis village is located beneath the whale shaped Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II, IV peaks.
The trek follows north east leaving the human habitations for sheer wilderness around dense woods of rhododendrons and pines. The route leads higher above the tree lines reaching at Rambrong Ridge, facing awesome views of Lamjung and Manaslu Himal. The climb progresses towards the highest point of the trek on top
Namun-La Pass at 4,850 meters. Enjoying the sweeping panorama of snow-capped mountain ranges of Annapurna, Manaslu and Lamjung Himal.
Slowly the trail descends around wide verdant meadows and back into forest reaching the Manang area at Timang. A large mountain village with a grand vista of Manaslu Himalayas, the trek concludes with an exciting drive back to Kathmandu.
After an exciting adventure on Namun-La Pass Traverse Treks, and amidst sheer mountain wilderness of the Annapurna and Lamjung Himal.
Major highlights of this trek
“Traverse from southern to northern areas of Annapurna Himalayan ranges.
An exceptional adventure on less visited high ridges of Namun-La Pass.
Exploring the hidden regions of eastern Annapurna and Lamjung Himal areas.
Trekking away from human habitation towards sheer mountain wilderness.
Exciting adventures amidst soaring giant peaks Annapurna and Lamjung Himal.
From lush green forest to barren mountainous ridges of high Namun-La Pass.”
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to a hotel
On arrival at Kathmandu and Nepal International Airport, after visa formalities, and claiming the baggage. Outside the exit terminal our staff and guide receives you for a short transfer to the hotel. After getting refreshed at the hotel, then join with other members of Namun-La Pass Trek for a briefing.
Briefing is done by our guide, group leader with full information of the treks, including hotels in Kathmandu. Local cultures with do's and don'ts. In the evening a lovely dinner and introduction to Nepali foods and culture.
Day 2: Tour of Kathmandu heritage sites of great interest
Morning after breakfast, our city guide takes you on a tour around the world heritage sites within Kathmandu city. After an exciting and interesting tour back to the hotel, preparation and packing for trekking.
Non-essential clothing and items not required for treks, can be stored in the Hotel or with Kirat Society Adventure.
Day 3: Fly to Pokhara and drive to Siklis 1,810 m - 03 hrs
Morning transfer to domestic airport for a short scenic flight to Pokhara during the flight view of snow-capped mountains. From Langtang - Ganesh Himal-Manaslu to Annapurna range including the majestic Mt. Machhapuchare the "Fishtail Peak". Reaching Pokhara airport, meet our trekking staff for an interesting drive on the dirt road, journey continues passing through rural farm areas and villages till Siklis is reached for an overnight stop. Siklis, the largest Gurung village in the Annapurna region. The menfolk of Siklis have long had the tradition of supplying some of the finest soldiers in the Gurkha Regiment to both the British and Indian armies.
The huge 'whaleback' peak of Lamjung Himal 6,986m dominates the skyline above the village, a mere 10 kilometers away. Siklis, a fascinating village amidst beautiful location, here you will have the opportunity to chat with Ex-Gurkha soldiers. These natives will be happy to discuss their association with the British and Indian armies. The village provides stunning views, particularly at sunset and sunrise.
Day 4: Trek to Tasa 2,340 m - 06 hrs
After a wonderful time at Siklis beginning the first day with a gradual walk. The trail follows around the scattered farm hamlets and terraced fields overlooking grand views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna rang. The walk continues away from the farm lands and villages, trekking towards complete wilderness. Overlooking views of the surrounding landscapes and rolling hills and valleys. The trail climbs for a few hours with short gradual descent and ascend till Tasa is reached for overnight camp. Tasa with a nice shelter built by ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project). The Annapurna region's natural surroundings have been protected by ACAP since the early 1990s. From this camp view of Lamjung Himal and the Annapurna range.
Day 5: Trek to Kori 2,850m - 05 hrs
Morning walk leads through serene rhododendron, oaks forest and grazing pasture lands and meadows. Chances of seeing some wild life like Danfe pheasant (National Bird of Nepal) Musk deer, Himalayan Tahr. Walking on undisturbed and isolated areas far from human settlements. The path follows with a slow climb for a few hours towards our overnight camp.
This area is called Kori, with a shelter built by ACAP for local travelers and pilgrims. On visiting the holy glacial pond of Dudh Pokhari, which is about 3-days walk from this spot, Kori. This place offers stunning views of Lamjung Himal - Manaslu range with Annapurna towards west.
Day 6: Trek to Thulo Lekh 3,150 m - 03 hrs
Today, a short day walk of about three hours, a morning walk leads to a steep uphill. Leaving the tree lines behind for alpine bushes and scrubs with grand scenery of rolling hills and valleys. Includes views of the snow-capped peaks. The walk progresses, as it gains altitude slowly and then reaches Thulo Lekh for lunch and an overnight stop. Afternoon free to explore this wild alpine area, well-hidden with rocky high cliffs.
Day 7: Trek to Falne 3,600 m - 05 hrs
Morning walk starts with a short ascent, then walking on a gradual winding path for a while. The climb follows with grand picturesque scenery of the surrounding landscapes and high snow-capped peaks. Views of Lamjung, Himal Chuli, Bouddha, and Manaslu. After a good climb reaching Falne for an overnight camp, Falne means to jump in the local language. When pilgrims and Yarsagumba (a twig or plant like caterpillar herbs) harvesters visit this area. A joyful moment of jumping from huge boulders, an afternoon with time for a short walk around this beautiful area.
Day 8: Trek to Thurju 4,130 m (Rambrong Ridge) - 05 hrs
After a great moment at Falne, morning walk climbs gaining more heights towards Rambrong ridge. Rambrong ridge, another high hill that separates the other eastern area of the Lamjung region. It is the top of the Rambrong ridge pass with stunning close views of the Manaslu peaks. Includes Lamjung Himal, and Annapurna towards the west. After a great moment, descend towards the overnight camp at Thurju. Situated on a grassy meadow with high rocky cliffs that surrounds this lovely spot.
Day 9: At Thurju with optional hike to Dudh Pokhari 4,440 m - 04 hrs
A rest and a contingency day after days of trekking. A nice spot for a rest day at approx. 4,130 meters. From here, an optional hike to Dudh Pokhari, a Holy glacial pond. Hundreds of pilgrims and devotees visit for a Holy Bath from all around the Annapurna - Lamjung and Manaslu areas. On an auspicious occasion which falls in the month of the end of July or the first week of August.
The walk to Dudh Pokhari takes about 4 hrs. to and from this camp at Thurju.
Day 10: Trek to Danfe Kharka 4,450 m via Namun Pass 4,850 m - 07 hrs
Today is a big day and the highlight of this memorable and scenic adventure. Traverse of Namun-La Pass, where only few trekkers have dared using this route. Morning climb on rocky and scattered stones, scree slopes, which is an ill-defined path. In snow conditions this will be an arduous job to find the right path. The best thing is that ACAP has made this route better than in the early days. Where poles have been pitched, so that one can find the path, in snow and heavy mist conditions. On reaching the top, enjoy the panorama of Manaslu Himalayas with Peak 29, and Himal Chuli at close distance. After a glorious moment, a long descent towards overnight camp at Danfe Kharka, a large grassy field, a nice summer pasture for yak and cattle herders.
Day 11: Trek to Dharapani 1,900m via Timang 2,750m - 06 hrs
A nice morning on this wonderful spot overlooking the world's 8th highest Mt. Manaslu. From here the final day's walk leads downhill to Timang village. Reaching back within human habitations and farm village, Timang is located on the famous and popular Annapurna circuit route. This large village is inhabited mostly by Gurung and Magar ethnic hill tribes. After a brief stop, the walk continues downhills to Dharapani. Another large village with the facility of a nice and cozy lodge and guesthouses. Overnight at Dharapani with time for the last day party among fellow members, staff, and porters. Dharapani also falls en route of Manaslu and Annapurna Circuit.
Day 12: Drive to Kathmandu via Bhesishar - 07 hrs
After a memorable adventure and experience of a lifetime. A scenic and exciting drive takes you back to Kathmandu. The drive follows the mountain dirt winding road for a few hours till Besisahar is reached. A large town and headquarters of Lamjung district, from here driving on a good road to Kathmandu. On reaching Kathmandu, check into respective hotels.
Day 13: Free day in Kathmandu, contingency day
Enjoy the leisure day, relaxing with fond memories of Namun-La Pass Traverse. Interested people can join for another tour to Patan and Bhaktapur, worth a visit not to be missed.
Day 14: International departure for homeward bound
Last day in Nepal and at Kathmandu, get ready for final departure as per your international flight time. Our guide and staff transfer you to the airport. Bidding farewell to the guide and staff as you depart for a homeward bound flight, after a wonderful experience and adventure around High Namun-La Pass Traverse Trek.
Includes/Excludes
What's Included?
- Permits: Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permit and Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card.
- Accommodations: 3 to 4-star hotel stays in Kathmandu/Pokhara, and local teahouses or fully serviced tented camps during the trek.
- Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) on the trail.
- Staff: An English-speaking licensed guide and porters to carry luggage (often a 1:2 ratio).
- Transportation: Private or tourist bus transfers between Kathmandu/Pokhara and the trailhead.
What's Excluded?
- International flights and Nepal entry visa fees.
- Personal travel insurance (must cover high-altitude emergency evacuation).
- Personal gear: Sleeping bags, specialized trekking clothing, and hiking boots.
- Additional expenses: Alcoholic beverages, Wi-Fi, battery charging, hot showers, and snacks on the trail.
- Gratuities: Tips for the guide and porters.
Essential Information
The Best Seasons for Namun-La Pass Traverse Trek:
The best favored seasons are spring and autumn/fall. The spring begins from March to May, most days are longer with sunlight hours.
Normally the morning till mid-afternoon days are clear for views and scenic walks can get overcast late afternoon sometime.
Can expect snowfalls, cold mornings and in the nighttime, the mid-hills are covered with tall rhododendron, pine and juniper trees. A lively time with wildflowers are in seasonal bloom, especially the rhododendrons of various colors.
The next high season is autumn/fall, starts from September and ends in November. Most days are fine with crystal clear blue sky, a pleasant time for scenic walks. Days are shorter due to limited sunlight hours, cold afternoons, and nights till morning time. Expect snowfall sometimes, but with a bright starry night sky.