Lokpa is the village where the Tsum Valley trail branches off from the main Manaslu Circuit route, marking the entry point into the sacred, restricted Tsum Valley, one of the most culturally significant and historically isolated corridors in the Nepal Himalaya. Sitting within the Budhi Gandaki valley below the larger settlements further up the main Manaslu trail, Lokpa serves as a genuine decision point for trekkers choosing between the standard circuit route and the additional side trip into Tsum.

The village itself is modest, reflecting its function primarily as a junction rather than a destination, with basic teahouses serving trekkers either continuing toward Tsum Valley's monasteries and traditional villages or remaining on the main Manaslu Circuit toward Namrung and Samagaon. The trail beyond Lokpa toward Tsum climbs into a narrower, more enclosed valley, distinctly different in character from the main Budhi Gandaki gorge.

For trekkers with the additional time required, typically adding a week or more to the standard Manaslu Circuit itinerary, the detour through Lokpa into Tsum Valley offers access to one of Nepal's most spiritually significant and culturally preserved regions, including the valley's traditional ban on animal slaughter and its deep Tibetan Buddhist heritage. This makes Lokpa an important waypoint for anyone hoping to experience the fuller cultural and geographic range that the wider Manaslu region has to offer.

Basic but adequate teahouse facilities are typically available, offering a hot meal and a simple bed for trekkers passing through.

Facilities along this stretch of trail remain simple, and trekkers should carry sufficient cash, since cards are not accepted and ATMs do not exist beyond the larger towns.

Mobile signal in the area is patchy at best, and travellers should not rely on constant connectivity once they are this far into the trail network.

Weather at this elevation can change quickly, and a flexible itinerary with a buffer day or two is generally recommended for anyone travelling through this part of the route.