This year, over 1,000 domestic and international tourists have visited Lapcha, located in Namkha Rural Municipality-6 in Nepal, to experience the breathtaking views of Mount Kailash and Manasarovar Lake.
The surge in visitors is attributed to improved road connectivity and growing awareness of Lapcha as a scenic destination. Kuncho Tamang, operator of Limi Resort in Takchi, revealed that since April, 1,037 tourists have visited Lapcha, including 312 international visitors and 737 Nepali tourists.
Compared to the previous year, the number of tourists has risen by more than 300. Tamang noted that Lapcha is gaining popularity among both domestic and international travelers. Notably, a group of eight motorcyclists from Pokhara and Kathmandu made the journey to Lapcha this year to enjoy the stunning views. To support the influx of visitors, a resort has been established in Takchi.
Perched at an altitude of 5,000 meters, Lapcha offers a spectacular panorama, with Manasarovar Lake in the foreground and Mount Kailash as a majestic backdrop. The lake is located approximately 25–30 kilometers away, while Mount Kailash is about 70 kilometers from Lapcha.
The serene atmosphere and awe-inspiring vistas often leave visitors spellbound, with many wishing to extend their stay. However, the weather is a critical factor. Outside the peak season, cloudy skies frequently obstruct the views, disappointing tourists who sometimes wait hours only to leave without glimpsing Mount Kailash or Manasarovar Lake.
Currently, clear weather has made this a prime time for visitors, with many Nepali tourists traveling to Lapcha during the Dashain holidays.
To reach Lapcha, tourists first fly to Simkot from Nepalgunj. From Simkot, local transportation is available, although some choose to trek, a journey that takes five to six days. By vehicle, travelers can reach Tumling or Takchi in a day and stay overnight. The following morning, a 3.5-hour drive takes them to Lapcha, ideally arriving between 8:30 and 9:00 am. Due to the cold winds, visitors are advised to bring warm clothing despite the sunny conditions.
After spending two to four hours enjoying the scenery, travelers often return to Tumling or Takchi and sometimes even make it back to Simkot the same day. Additionally, tourists can explore the 1,200-year-old Halji Monastery and the picturesque Limi Valley.
Until two years ago, renting a vehicle from Simkot to Lapcha cost between Rs. 40,000 and Rs. 50,000 per day. However, increased vehicle availability has reduced the cost to Rs. 22,000 for a reserved vehicle, making it an economical choice for groups of seven.
Accommodations have also become more convenient. Nepali tourists can now find overnight stays, including two meals, for approximately Rs. 1,900. Previously, visitors had to make all arrangements themselves, but the establishment of homestays in Tumling and a resort in Takchi has improved comfort and accessibility.
A three-day itinerary is ideal for exploring Lapcha. Besides enjoying the views of Mount Kailash and Manasarovar Lake, tourists can spot wildlife, savor local delicacies such as yak milk, yoghurt, cheese, and churpi, and interact with herds of yaks, making the journey truly memorable.
