The Langtang Gosaikunda trek is often underestimated by tourists and therefore not as popular as the Solukhumbu trek near Everest or the Annapurna region. However, this trek has become one of our favorite destinations where we like to take our esteemed guests to see the equally beautiful icy peaks, lower and less known.
Our 16-day-long Langtang Gosaikunda trek will take you first to the dazzling mountainous area of Langtang in the north-central part of Nepal. Running through the natural preserve of the National Park of Langtang, the Valley is literally the nature lover’s paradise. Here, the Tamangs related to the Tibetans live breeding yaks among other things, and are famous for the excellent cheeses they produce here.
Our adventure then continues to the seven sacred lakes of Gosainkunda situated on a plateau. Thousands of Shaivas and Hindu pilgrims once in their life reach out to them especially during the full moon Janai Purnima festival in August. According to legend, the lake was created where Shiva pierced a glacier with his trident to obtain water and quench his thirst after consuming poison.
Our Langtang Gosaikunda trek then ends by crossing Helambu via the 4610 m high Laurebinayak Pass. It is a mountain region lying at the foot of the Langtang Himalayas, which is interestingly inhabited by Sherpas.
Since a trek in Nepal would be incomplete without the extraordinary sights of the majestic Himalayas, the Langtang Gosaikunda trek has also not forgotten to capture this true essence of Nepal. This trek will give you the glorious sights of Ganesh, Langtang Lirung, the formidable Gangchenpo ice wall, Annapurnas, Manaslu, and many others.
This trek also incorporates the easy ascent to Chorkari Ri, above 5 thousand m Hill in Kyanjing Gompa that also offers the superior panorama of Yala Peak, Naya Kang, Ponggen Dokpu, Yansa Tsenji along with Gangchempo, Langshisa Ri and Ganja La Pass.
All in all, our Langtang Gosaikunda trek is complete in terms of discovering Nepal since we will move both in high mountains and in low altitude hills dotted with villages and terraced crops.
Welcome to a real introductory trek of Nepal!
From Kathmandu, a bus will take us to the Rasuwa village of Syabru Bensi along the hilly road of Nepal. then walking through the subtropical forests of the National Wildlife Sanctuary of Langtang, past the small villages of Lama Hotel, and Mundu, we will make a stop at Kyanjing Gompa. Here, we will climb the amazing Chorkari Ri and then take our step back towards Lama Hotel.
The second leg of our Langtang Gosakiunda trek will then direct our path towards Gosakiunda Lake via Thulo Syabru and Shin Gompa. The latter stage will return us to Kathmandu through the agricultural region of Helambu, passing numerous villages of Ghopte, Melamchi Gaon, Tarekghyang, and Shermathang surrounded by terraced fields.
Lasso Fyafulla! We graciously welcome you to the sensational city of Kathmandu. Our company correspondent will warmly greet you and in a private car, you will reach your hotel.
Drop your things off, settle for a few hours of rest and after you freshen up, we will gather for Langtang Gosaikunda trek briefing by our local guide. Later, you will have some free time in Kathmandu, you can take a look at Nepali streets, homes, people, and markets.
Early in the morning, with our team of guide and porters, we will travel by bus towards the North of Kathmandu. Past the gorgeous Thankot Pass, the Trishuli Highway will direct us to Nuwakot- an interesting stop along the way. Then a long bending road of Pasang Lhamu will journey us towards Rani Pauwa and Dhunche villages along hills striped with rice fields.
Now, the road winds on a wild slope towards New Syabru Bensi resting along the shore of Bhote Koshi. A well-built strong bridge will then take our bus towards Old Syabru Bensi where we will have our first night amidst the cool mountain breeze. The Manaslu, Annapurna II, or Ganesh Himal will be the major spectacle of our today’s road travel.
Attention
If you like to travel by jeep to Syabru Bensi, a jeep can be arranged at an extra cost of USD 150 per person.
After distributing the loads among the porters, our large column will set off. We will begin our walking by the course of the Bhote Koshi River. We will be walking over many suspension bridges eventually leading us to Dhomen (1620 m).
Now the stormy river of Langmoche Khola through the narrow forest will guide us through the valley populated with bamboo and oaks. The langur monkeys will be a common sighting in the forest. After passing the Bamboo Lodge (1960 m), the Langtang Khola will take us towards Rimche from where the track ascends to Lama Hotel aka Changtang.
Our route once again continues along the Langtang Khola. The vertical snowy walls of Langtang Lirung and Langtang II will be the most enchanting sight today.
As we continue walking or rather climbing along a steep slope for about 1 and a half hours, we will pass by Ghuman Chowk and Chhunama settlements to reach Ghoda Tabela (3000 m). It is our gateway to the National Park of Langang where our papers will be inspected.
The path then climbs more gradually in the now wide valley and in sparser vegetation to Thyangsyap Village, Chyamki, and Ghumba. The water-powered grain mills and prayer wheels along the track are an interesting spectacle to see.
The Langtang Village will be an emotional spot where we can still see the remnants of the unfortunate 2015 Earthquake. We will proceed with our ascension towards the now-new Langtang Village named Mundu, whose flat-roofed houses are built in the Tibetan style. Around the fields enclosed by stone walls, yaks graze.
A gentle climbing track along the Mani Walls after Mundu will take us through Singdun and Yemphu- two villages with a major resemblance to Tibetan villages.
The valley is wide now and Gangchempo, Chorkari Ri, Kyanjin Ri, Langshisha Ri, Kinsung, and Langtang Lirung loom on the horizon. Wehave now stepped in the soil of Kyanjin Gompa in half a day. The afternoon is devoted to acclimatization and visiting the surrounding area. Here we find a gompa (Buddhist monastery) and a cheese factory started in 1955 by a Swiss association.
Our day today is devoted to exploring the wild valley, its Gompa, and climbing the Chorkari Ri. Marching to the east, our ascending track will run towards the Langshisha Kharka. A small river will be crossed followed by a sharp inclination taking us to Yala Kharka.
The final segment of our upward journey will be a bit challenging along the stone terrain ending at the top of Chorkari Ri. The panoramas from the summit are extraordinary, especially on the high glacial valleys, Gangchempo, Langshisa Ri, Ponggen Dokpu, Yansa Tsenji on the Tibetan border, and of course Langtang Lirung, Yala, Naya Kanga and Ganja La Pass.
The upward climb has risen to approximately 1200 m and the descending journey will also lower us by the same elevation.
We will turn back and reluctantly descend the magnificent Langtang Valley. We will walk down through the already-known surroundings of Mundu, Ghoda Tabela, and Langmoche which will steer us towards Lama Hotel.
Resuming our downward journey along the shore of the beautiful Langtang Khola, we will bypass Rimche and some waterfalls, after which we will be walking across the suspension bridge (2000 m). We will leave the sunny and dry slope for the deep forests of tall pines on the opposite bank.
Our downward journey will take us past Bamboo and we will reach the small ridge from where we will again climb down and cross the Ghopcha Khola. the last slope will now take us to our stage at Thulo Syabru, a magnificent Tamang village.
Continuing our upward travel, we have our today’s goal of reaching Chandanbari better known to travelers as Shin Gompa. Rising along the track, we will take a brief lunch break at Dursagang (2550 m) from where the ascent continues less steep, mostly in the forest.
We will then reach the top of the climb at Foprong Danda (3210 m). The 360-degree view of the Ganesh Himal and the mountains of Tibet is magnificent. By crossing a beautiful forest of giant rhododendrons, we will reach Sing Gompa. We will make sure to visit the gompa (Buddhist monastery).
Our climbing adventure continues on the ridge and we will reach the flat area of Chalang Pati (3380 m). The contrast here is striking between the humid forests of the northern slope and the dry scrub to the south.
We are at Laure Binayak (3930 m) where we will have one of the most beautiful views of the Langtang and Ganesh massifs united in the same panorama. The view is far-reaching and if the weather is mild, do not rub your eyes, it is indeed the double horn of the summit of Manaslu that you can see, and to its left the Annapurna massif.
The upward journey will follow the winding track eventually leading us to the top of Gosaikunda Pass (4165 m). we are now moving in an alpine environment and reach above the Saraswati Kund (4100 m), the first of the Gosainkunda lakes.
A beautiful crossing will then lead us to the second lake, Bhairav Kunda (4364 m), and then to the third, Gosainkunda (4400 m). This is where we will settle ourselves for the night at a higher altitude. The fantastic sunset over the peaks of Ganesh Himal, Manaslu, and the Annapurnas will remain in our memories.
After exploring the surroundings of Lake Gosainkunda, we will take the sloping path opposite which climbs the grassy moraine. We will traverse the last four small lakes, before reaching the highest point of our trek, the Laurebinayak Pass (4610 m).
This pass is the entry point towards Helambu and offers beautiful views of both sides of Ganesh to Manaslu and up to the Annapurna. We will take the time to descend the 900 meters of altitude difference until reaching the foot of the pass whose Nepalese name is Phedi (3741 m).
We can again enjoy the fabulous panorama that surrounds us. Now, a very beautiful crossing up and down the mountainside leads us to Ghopte.
A modest downward walk will take us to Tharepati Pass at 3490 m. The vast space of the Pass allows us to discover the Jugal Himal, from Gangchempo to Phurbi Chyachu to Dorje Lakpa and Gaurishankar. We find Helambu again, its rhododendron forests, and its terraced crops.
The rest of the journey continues in the forest ending us at Melamchi Gaon.
We will continue with our descent turning east till we reach alongside Melamchi River. The forest is now becoming increasingly rare as the mountain is now entirely cultivated. We will pass farmers going to the fields and now cross the Nakote, Dozum, and Chiri to Tarkeghyang.
Following the small passage through numerous waterfalls and streams, we will walk into small communities of Setighyang and Ghangyul to reach Sermathang featuring several ancient Gompas along with the Gosaikunda mountain range, Langang and Ganesh massif.
The gradual descent for approximately two hours will take us to Kakani and Thimbu. After taking one last glance at the mesmerizing Himalayan scenery, we will go down to the base, cross the small river, and advance to Melamchi Pul Bazaar. Our car will be present to take us back to Kathmandu.
We will travel along the Araniko Highway, passing through the picturesque towns of Dhulikhel, Banepa, and Bhaktapur to finally reach Kathmandu.
Now full of so many images and emotions, it is time to go back. Depending on the flight schedule, you may have the possibility to enjoy a few more hours in Kathmandu and then transfer to the airport. See you on your next Nepal adventure!
The Langtang Gosakiunda trek is at a moderate altitude, therefore, the best months to travel are from October to April as they offer the driest weather in both regions.
March, April, and May (Spring) weather and September, October, and November (Autumn) weather open the window for the green landscapes, and the transparent views of the highest peaks while these are also the festive and harvest seasons of rice, an event that entails a multitude of events and celebrations.
December, January, and February are the coldest months so the temperature naturally drops (not as much as in Everest or Annapurna regions), so you won’t have a particular problem if you are dressed appropriately. It is also a fact that at this time of year, the atmosphere is crystal clear and the view of the mountains will compensate you for everything.
Summer, dominated by monsoons (June, July, August), is probably the worst option however it doesn’t mean it’s a no-go season, but be prepared for quite a bit of hassle.
You may be soaked all day when walking and if you add the abundant leeches that dominate the countryside, you understand that you need to be very well prepared for this whole package. Of course, a big negative of this season is the fact that the view of the Himalayas may be limited due to the weather.
Our Langtang Gosaikunda trek includes three main destinations: Langtang Valley, located 61.8 km from Kathmandu; Gosaikunda Lake, 67.5 km further and Helambu, 75 km distant from Kathmandu. The total length of the trek is therefore 75 km.
The journey commences from Syabru Bensi separated from the capital by 122 long road that needs 7 to 8 hours of bus ride. Langtang is only 28.4 km further from this village while Gosaikunda Lake is 11.8 km away, and Helambu is 22.6 km distant.
Our trip will venture to the tip of Chorkari Ri at 5050 m at Kyanjing Gompa – the tallest height and on the way back to the top of Laurebinayak Pass at 4610 m which is our second tallest elevation of the entire journey. We will sleep at the loftiest altitude of 4300 m at Gosaikunda Village.
During our 16-day expedition to Langtang and Gosaikunda, we will engage in a total of 13 days of walking. Each day, we can expect to walk for an average of 5 to 6 hours, covering distances of 10 to 12 kilometers.
Most days will involve moderate walking, but days 5, 14, and 15 will be relatively easy and shorter, requiring only 3 to 4 hours of walking. On day 5, we will journey from Mundu to Kyanjing Gompa; on day 14, we will travel from Tarekghyang to Shermathang; and on day 15, we will proceed to Melamchi Pul Bazaar.
The most challenging and longest trek will occur on day 6 when we will travel over the Kyanjing Gompa, climb over the Chorakri Ri, and take our feet back to our lodge which will take approximately 7 hours.
The Langtang Gosaikunda trek is considered a slightly easier intermediate level of trekking in Nepal where the days are typically 5 to 7 hours and the high altitude is approximately 5000 m. To be precise, our obligatory maximum altitude will be at 4610 m which is a concern for us.
Exceeding 4000 m is not insurmountable provided you respect the essential rules of acclimatization to altitude. Most of the days in our itinerary don’t go beyond 6 hours except for a top day that involves climbing the Chorkari Ri and crossing of the Laurebinayak Pass.
We therefore have strategically allocated two night stays at Kyanjing Gompa with several days constituting only 3 to 4 hours of acclimating hikes. Still, you must be in optimal physical health and used to mountain hiking for this adventure.
The Langtang Gosaikunda trek is an excellent choice for beginners, families, and seniors looking to explore the beauty of Nepal. Its accessible trails make it perfect for those new to trekking.
We have also tried to offer maximum comfort to our participants considering the local conditions available. However, hazards are always inherent to this type of trip, specifically weather and altitude-related, as we will be among some of the high peaks.
We also can’t overlook the significant challenge posed by the two impressive heights: Chorakri Ri, soaring over 5000 meters at Kyanjing Gompa, and the Laurebinayak Pass, which reaches 4610 meters.
Therefore, being in excellent physical shape and maintaining good health is imperative. In addition, as the Langtang and Helambu areas are in the early stages of development, the tea houses along the trek may provide only the most basic facilities.
However, this has the advantages of authenticity and immersion in the real nature. You should therefore make the most of this wonderful environment and the warm welcome of its inhabitants, accept a different world and culture and its possible unforeseen events.
Participating in several days walking journey like our Langtang Gosaikunda trek undoubtedly demands a high level of physical fitness. Walking for at least 5 to 6 hours daily is a significant commitment that requires a strong endurance level.
To prepare effectively, you can begin by walking, jogging, or climbing stairs, gradually progressing to running, cycling, and swimming. Then, you can join a hiking club and undertake some mountain trips with a light backpack which will provide valuable insight into what to expect during mountain adventures.
Lastly, you should also gather as much information as possible about Langtang and Helambu so you can prepare yourself in advance for the challenges you may encounter on this trek.
There is no denying the fact that you may sometimes develop altitude sickness in the Langtang Gosaikunda trek. Headache, dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath, vomiting, general fatigue, poor sleep, and loss of appetite are some of the symptoms of this disease. Mostly, altitude sickness is mild in this trek and they heal quickly.
However, ignoring the rule of acclimatization can often result in severe form. Thus the best method to fight altitude sickness is to move slowly and take days off to get used to the new altitude.
It can also be a good strategy to anticipate that you will experience these symptoms and mentally prepare for it. If you have built up good endurance and take good care of nutrition and water during the hike, the likelihood and severity of symptoms will decrease.
It is also common to take Diamox before undertaking any mountain trekking in Nepal. Most members often take this drug one or two days before they reach the high altitude so they can acclimatize quickly. However, it is a diuretic drug that needs you to drink water more than you are used to.
Our Langtang Gosaikunda trek commences with an exploration of the Langtang region, followed by a trek through the Helambu valley towards the end of the journey. However, you also have the option to reverse this route by starting with the Helambu Valley trek and entering the Langtang region by crossing the Laurebinayak Pass.
You can also walk to any one of the regions we have included in our itinerary if it seems to be lengthy and overwhelming. Such as, you can hike to only Langtang and return, or you can walk to Gosaikunda Lake or Helambu Valley only.
The individual journey to any one of the regions often lasts only one week and will be much easier compared to our combined trek.
On your first day in Kathmandu at TIA, our private car will be waiting to drive you to your hotel. Likewise, on your departure day, the same transport will ensure you reach TIA from your hotel.
From Kathmandu, you will travel by bus to Sybrubensi, and at the end of the trek, our private car will be waiting for you at Melamchi to bring you back to Kathmandu.
A three-star hotel with a room for two people of the same sex with a private bathroom, Wifi, and hot shower for two nights will be provided to you. The best possible lodge option en route with a room for two will be available during the trek. Showers at extra cost are increasingly possible.
Breakfast (with choices of Indian, Nepali, Tibetan, or any International cuisine) will be from our side in Kathmandu however, lunch and dinner expenses will be your responsibility. Throughout the trek, full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be covered by us, with seasonal daily fresh fruits every night.
All meals will take place at the lodge where the option can be limited but you will be impressed by the quality and variety of meals prepared by the lodge owner.
When you are in Kathmandu, our team will help you with buying and setting up the NCELL or NTC mobile service. These national networks have great coverage in the Langtang and Helambu regions, offering fast 4G internet service. You can even choose to use the virtual eSim from NTC or NCELL.
WIFI is usable at the lodges in Langtang and Helambu, there might be an additional charge and the speed could be slow. There are outlets in the lodge where you can charge your mobile, battery, and power bank but at an extra price.
During our Langtang Gosaikunda trek, we will be walking through the Langtang National Park, so it’s important for us to have an entry permit for the Park in addition to the TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System). The permit cost is already covered, and our guide will handle the process of getting the permits.
Tamang Heritage adventure can be another trip you can merge with our Langtang Gosaikunda trek.
This trek will be led by our highly experienced English-speaking guide. Based on the group member size, an assistant guide will also be provided.
Yes, when trekking to Langtang and Gosaikunda, you must be covered by travel insurance, in the event of a rescue operation. Special insurance applies to mountain hiking, as it is not included as an ordinary travel activity. Contact your insurance company and inform them of the altitudes of your trek.
If you become so ill that you cannot continue with the group, our guide will find a safe and secure alternative for you. You will never be left alone and will therefore always be accompanied by any one member of our team until you recover.