Gyala Banjyang and Ruila Pass: Remote Nepal–Tibet Border Trails in the Manaslu Region

Gyala Banjyang and Ruila Banjyang are two historically important Himalayan passes located north of Samdo village in the Manaslu region. Gyala Banjyang was once a major trade route between Nepal and Tibet, and although it is higher and longer than Ruila, it is less frequently visited by trekkers today. Both passes can be completed as a one-day side trip from Samdo.

Ruila Pass now serves as the official border between Nepal and Tibet, and crossing is not allowed without the required entry permits. The border area is secured with long fences and guarded by Chinese security forces. Despite this, Ruila offers trekkers spectacular panoramic views of the Tibetan Plateau and surrounding Himalayan peaks, making it a memorable viewpoint at nearly 5,000 meters.

Historical Use of Gyala Banjyang

In the early 1900s, villagers of the Nubri Valley used Gyala Banjyang extensively as a trade route. The area also features notable peaks, including Gyala Peak and Panbari Himal (approx. 6,700 m). Traders from Nepal carried wood, yak products, and barley, and in return they brought back salt, clothing, and utensils from Tibet. These goods were transported using yaks, zopo, and horses.

The region is also known for its vast pasturelands, providing abundant grass and wide open spaces. Locals often spent a night here while traveling between Nepal and Tibet, allowing their cattle to rest and graze.

Modern Trekking Experience

Today, many trekkers find the long hiking day to Gyala and Ruila incredibly rewarding, thanks to the dramatic scenery, green valleys, and sweeping mountain ranges. Some camping groups even include Gyala Banjyang in their itinerary, spending one or two nights there with their own tents and food supplies to enjoy the remote beauty of the region.

Medicinal Plants and Yarsagumba

The area above 3,500 meters is rich in Himalayan herbs and medicinal plants. During May and June, locals from Samdo and Samagaun travel to these high pastures to collect valuable herbs such as Yarsagumba and wild garlic, which form a major source of income for the community.

Yarsagumba, often called Himalayan Viagra, is a rare caterpillar fungus (Ophiocordyceps sinensis). It forms when a parasitic fungus infects a caterpillar during winter. By spring, a thin brown stalk—about 3 cm long—emerges, half buried in the soil. Highly prized in Tibetan medicine, Yarsagumba is believed to boost stamina, strengthen the immune system, support lung and kidney health, and act as a powerful antioxidant. Its rarity makes it one of the most expensive medicinal herbs in the Himalayas.

Gyala and Ruila as Acclimatization Hikes

This route is also excellent for acclimatization before crossing the Larke La Pass. Starting from Samdo (3,800 m), the full day trip takes around 6–7 hours.

Key points along the route include:

• Larke Bazaar (30 minutes) – Historically a major trade center between Nepal and Tibet.
  
  

• West leads toward Dharamshala and Larke Pass.
  
  

• East leads toward the Nepal–Tibet border.
  
  

• Chetang (40 minutes further) – A traditional yak pastureland.
  
  

• Maya (1 hour 30 minutes) – Offers views of the Fukang Glacier.
  
  

• Gyala Banjyang & Ruila Border (another 1.5 hours) – High mountain passes with expansive views of Tibet and the surrounding Himalaya.