New mountain trail to link Manaslu and Annapurna

By Navin Raj Kuinkel,Lamjung, Mar. 14: The improved road access to the Manaslu and Annapurna regions has not only shortened the trek route, but also the dust, smoke, and noise pollution from the vehicular movements have started disturbing tourists. 

To offer visitors a peaceful yet thrilling long trek to these famous routes, a new mountain trail connecting Lamjung and Gorkha has recently been developed.

Named as ‘Buddha Himal-Himalchuli Great Lake Circuit Trail’, this route extends  the foothills to the high hills and mountain bases of northern Lamjung and northwestern Gorkha districts.  

The new trail was explored collaboratively by the Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal (TAAN) and five local governments from Lamjung and Gorkha as an alternative trekking route.

The trail starts at Dona (Thulagi) in Lamjung, passes through Meme Pokhari and crosses the Rubina-La Pass (5,000 metres) in Gorkha. This 18-day trek includes the route to the base of Buddha Himal and Himalchuli. For those seeking a shorter route, the lower section reaches Lipe-Baraha Pokhari (3,200 metres) in Lamjung, offering a 13-day trek.

“This trail is distinct from the Annapurna and Manaslu routes, offering an exciting new experience which the tourists have not explored yet,” said TAAN Director Ram Chandra Sedhai. “With no traffic or noise, this serene path is sure to thrill trekkers, making it a prime destination for mountain tourism,” he added.

The trail begins in Ajirkot, Gorkha (3,200 metres) and moves through Dudh Pokhari toward the Dordi region, reaching elevations close to 5,000 metres. Along the route are culturally and naturally rich landmarks, including Gorkha’s Barpak, Ajirkot, Nage Pokhari, Dudh Pokhari, Notache, Lipe Lek, Meme Pokhari, Baraha Pokhari and Thulagi Tal.

It takes around 18 days to complete the circuit, requiring nine days in Dordi Rural Municipality alone, according to municipality chairperson Yubaraj Adhikari. He added that the trek could also begin from Barpak, Marsyangdi and Ajirkot or Rainas.

For those seeking a shorter trek, alternative routes connect Gorkha’s Ajirkot via Bhachchek to Lamjung’s Dudh Pokhari, Bichaur, Ilam Pokhari, Lipe Lek, Damrang, Kirtipur, Tapgaun, Baraha Pokhari and Hilletaksar before ending at Besisahar’s Peace Hill in Marsyangdi Rural Municipality.

This scenic trail is filled with sacred lakes, mesmerising waterfalls and crystal-clear mountain views, showcasing peaks such as Himalchuli, Buddha Himal and Harke Chuli. Describing the trail as a ‘hidden gem,’ Marsyangdi Rural Municipality Chairman Arjun Gurung stressed its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes.

The trail is home to rare wildlife such as musk deer, red pandas and Danphe (Himalayan monal), the national bird. The region also boasts various species of rhododendrons and hundreds of medicinal herbs. 

Rich in Gurung culture, the trail passes through traditional villages, ancient forts, monasteries and temples, offering a rich cultural experience. Encountering yak and sheep herders in the high Himalayan region further enhances the adventure.

The trek can be customised for both short and extended journeys. Starting points include Machhakhola, Larpak, Barpak, Bhachchek, Besisahar, Bhulbhule, Ngadi, Bahundanda, Ghermu and Jagat. Emergency services are accessible in many locations and settlements are never too far away for safety.

Religious sites such as Naag Pokhari, Dudh Pokhari and Meme Pokhari are also key attractions of this new trail.

“For those seeking shorter routes, treks like Naag Pokhari Trek, Nage-Dudh Pokhari Trek, Meme Pokhari Trek and Thulagi Pokhari Trek are excellent choices,” said Adhikari, Chairman of Dordi Rural Municipality. “With proper promotion and development, this trail has strong potential to draw a significant number of tourists,” he added.

The trail was explored over 16 days by TAAN and local government representatives. They have prepared travel packages and infrastructure development has begun in collaboration with federal and provincial governments.

The official launch event for the trail took place in Kathmandu on Wednesday, attended by Nepal’s Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, Defense Minister Manbir Rai, Nepal Tourism Board Vice Chairperson Ram Prasad Sapkota (Kamal), TAAN Chairperson Sagar Pandey, tourism officials, local representatives, diplomats and tourism entrepreneurs.

“We introduced this new trail as a fresh option for trekking enthusiasts,” said TAAN Chairperson Pandey. Trail maps, brochures and detailed information were unveiled during the event, along with a trail animation presentation.