Langtang Valley and Gosaikunda Lake Trek - 14 Days

Good to Know
  • Duration 14 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Starts/Ends Kathmandu to Kathmandu
  • Group Size 1-10
  • Max. Altitude 3870 m.
  • Best Season March, April, May and September, October, November

Highlights

  • UNESCO World Heritage sightseeing in the city of temples, Kathmandu.
  • Sensational drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi
  • Explore the natural gem of the Langtang region, the Langtang National Park
  • Cross the scenic Laurebina High Pass (4,620 m)
  • Take an awakening dipping at the divine alpine lake of Gosaikunda
  • Visit the holy and historical Sanctum of Kyanjin Gompa
  • Observe the local cheese factories nestled amongst hills and mountains

The Langtang Valley and Gosaikunda Lake Trek is a fantastic nearby trekking destination in the north of Kathmandu, which is known for its stunning Himalayan beauty, cultural diversity, and religious significance of Gosaikunda Lake. Trekking in this part of the country is a diverse experience, from verdant forests and terraced farms to the scenic high alpine landscapes in the Langtang region.

The quaint villages, abundant wildlife, and incredible mountains under the national park of Langtang magnify the trekking experience in Nepal, followed by the hearty hospitality of the Sherpa and Tamang people, with identical religious practices, dialects, and attire to the Tibetans, differing in family linkage. The whole region is known for its exceptional tradition, Buddhist gompas, and monasteries snugged in the lap of the majestic Himalayas.

Throughout the journey to the Langtang valley and Gosaikunda, you will encounter several charming valleys such as Dhunche, Bharkhu, Syabru, and lovely dwellings of Tamang from the middle hill of Nepal, specifically in Kyanjin, and explore some high valleys of Langshisa, Chhirku Ri, and Kyamjin Ri by chasing the Langtang river stream through dense forest of bamboo, pine, and newly bloomed rhododendron that ascends gradually to the alpine meadows with exceptional views of mountain ranges atop.

Therefore, the 14-day itinerary Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Trek is a journey to set for an amazing adventure that begins with a drive through the bank of the Trishuli River, moving forth to the north from the capital city by Trishuli Bazaar, Dunche, and eventually to Syabrubesi.

This Langtang Valley Gosaikunda itinerary takes you to all the major significant historical and natural landmarks of the Langtang region, including Kyanjin Gompa, Gosaikunda Lake, and the Langtang National Park following the Langtang, Manaslu, and Ganesh Himal ranges, which look straight out from the fairyland.

What to expect at the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Trek

The 14-day itineraryLangtang Valley Gosaikunda Trek is a comprehensive adventurous voyage in the high Himalayan area protected by the respective national park of the region, the Langtang National Park, stretching up to 1,710 square kilometers. The whole region is one of the best places on the planet to inhale the true serene ambiance, miles away from the chaotic city life.

The wide variety of wildlife in the Langtang National Park

The Langtang National Park in Nepal, considerably closer to Kathmandu than any other trekking trails in the country, is home to several endangered species of flora and fauna. Since it is also small in area, it increases the chances of encountering a broad range of wildlife, such as red pandas, who love to play hide and seek in thick bamboo woods, rare tahr, and a variety of birds on your lucky day.

While wildlife watching might not be guaranteed, you can still explore the wide biodiversity of the region forested by oak, rhododendron, pine, and bamboo in a short space of time.

Awe-inspiring Himalayan Landscapes in the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Trek

When you point in the north of Kathmandu Valley, you will find yourself at the glance of some of the refined peaks preached above the clouds due to its closeness to the capital city called the Langtang ranges in the Langtang region.

The slight glimpse alone bewitches mountain and nature enthusiasts, along with the scenic landscapes followed by pristine natural beauty, including lush jungles, nicely terraced fields, pasture lands, and rugged terrains.

They all come together to create jaw-dropping scenery, conspiring with the heavenly Himalayas such as Langtang Lirung and Ganesh Himal to stun the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Trekkers.

So, the trek to Langtang Valley Gosaikunda is a perfect adventurous activity to perform in Nepal for photography and videography aspirants as well which enhances not only the background of the picture but also of life.

Why is the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Trek off the beaten path?

Nepal has been a tourist-hosting country for more than seven decades. The country is a primary destination for travelers looking forward to getting deeper insight into the fascinating hills and Himalayas.

Many prefer the Everest and Annapurna regions on their bucket lists, leading to commercialized and heavily crowded routes during the peak seasons of spring and autumn, which might not be able to provide the real serenity of the mythical Himalayas.

Whereas, despite being the closest trekking trail to Kathmandu, the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda offers multiple routes and side trek options, which means that not all trekkers follow the same path, separating them from the crowds in more remote sections of the country.

Therefore, if you are seeking to explore the purely natural beauty, enjoy nature to yourself, and get into the rural indigenous life, diverse culture, flora and fauna, and hypnotizing scenery, the less frequented Langtang Valley Gosaikunda is a perfect trekking destination for you.

What is the religious significance of Gosaikunda Lake in the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Trek?

One of the major highlights of the Langtang region, Gosaikunda, at an elevation of 4,380 m, is an alpine freshwater glacial lake surrounded by the grand ranges of Ganesh, Manaslu, and Langtang, which holds profound religious and natural importance and is revered by both Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims.

The Hindus treasure the lake as the holy sanctuary of the principal Hindu lord, Shiva, who is believed to have assembled the lake to soothe the ingested poison during the churning ritual of the ocean (Samundra Manthan) by thrusting his trident (Trishul) into the ground.

The surrounding area of the lake is filled with numerous Buddhist monasteries and chortens adorned with prayer flags reflecting the harmonious coexistence of both religions, which draws devotees and trekkers alike, especially in August during the festival of Janai Purnima, making it a unique haven where spirituality and nature intersect.

Why explore Kyanjin Gompa on the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Trek?

Yet another religiously significant village in the Langtang region is Kyanjin Gompa, the main shelter of Buddhist monasteries with aromatic cheese factories. The ambiance here is in its purest form, and you can witness the mesmerizing lifestyle of the locals.

On the other hand, Kyanjin Gompa, at an elevation of 3,870 m, also functions as a substantial viewpoint to observe the glorious mountain vistas and the lower pasturelands, which are ideal spots for acclimatization.

Therefore, Kyanjin Gompa is a popular last village in the Langtang Valley, which is naturally and culturally abundant and has to be savored at any cost to conquer the authentic trekking experience in Nepal.

Cross the high mountain Laurebina Pass in the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Trek.

Laurabina Pass is the highest trekking point of the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda 14-day trek at an elevation of 4,610 m, initiating panoramic views of all the soaring mountains of the Langtang region above the clouds.

Situated in between the Gosaikunda Lake encompassment and the Helambu connecting the major two trekking destinations, the Laurebina Pass makes the trail more interesting to come around due to its steep terrain, high altitude, and unpredictable weather.

Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Trek: Is this trek right for you?

The Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Trek is considered a moderately challenging trail in Nepal, which, although it might not involve extreme altitude like some other trekking regions like Annapurna and Everest, does include steep ascents and descents, rocky terrain, and the high Laurbina Pass. So, it is crucial to be in good physical shape, whether you are a novice or an experienced trekker.

Similarly, it is also a budget-friendly trek that caters to the interest and expense planning of each adventurer in the precious Himalayan hoods of Nepal. Hence, the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Trek is a memorable and filling journey in the heart of the mountains, perfect for all kinds of daredevils, whether experienced or newbies seeking their first Himalayan adventure.

The Langtang Valley Gosaikunda 12 Days Trek Itinerary

There is a variation in the itinerary of the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Trek, along with the duration, depending on the explicit route you have chosen and your trekking pace. Trekkers always have to remain conscious and prepared for varying weather conditions, which might lead to certain alternations.

The 14-day Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Trek by Adventure Himalayan Travels and Treks Pvt. Ltd. is a comprehensive standard package that can be customized according to your preferences and budget planning.

We are capable of tailoring the day-to-day itinerary of each trek that you want to go on with us as per your special requirements, which are better addressed before heading for the trail. In addition, a few days can be added or subtracted from the package to adjust to your needs at the moment of trekking.

But make sure your trekking itineraries include a few days of buffer days to acclimatize, and if you wish to extend your holiday stays while trekking in Nepal, it is advisable to have a separate few days on hand.

While you do so, the trekking itineraries get extended, and there could be minor changes in the cost depending upon the nature of the changes you seek to harvest the most of your bucks.

Overall, our 14-day itinerary provides a general overview of the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Trek that you must go through once.

What is the trek cost of the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda?

Generally, the rough budget estimate for the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Trek with reputed travel and trekking agency ranges from USD 1,000 to USD 2,500 per person, which covers the trek’s duration, necessary permits, accommodations, meals, porters, and guides.

As one of the most popular travel, tour, and trekking operators in Nepal, we are offering the 14-day Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Trek in:

  • USD 1,060 for 1 pax
  • USD 975 for 2-3 pax
  • USD 925 for 4-6 pax
  • USD 875 for 7–10 pax

Note: There could be a change in the trek cost if you modify the mode of accommodation, food menu, and type of services given compared to what is provided in the standard package, which gets more reasonable for a larger group as we are offering a group discount price.

Itinerary
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Upon your arrival at the terminal gate of the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by representatives of ‘Adventure Himalayan Travels’ and transferred to your hotel.

In the evening, you will get to relish the celebratory Nepali cuisine and be briefed about your upcoming trekking itinerary.

  • Accommodation3 star Hotel
  • Mealsnot available
  • Max. Altitude1,400 m

On day two, the road to Syabrubesi from Kathmandu goes through several curvy twists and turns for about 8 to 9 hours, covering a distance of 117 km, to find a lodging house in the hilltown beside the bank of the Trishuli river.

  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude1,600 m

You will begin to trek officially on this day from Syabrubesi for approximately five and a half hours to reach Sherpa Gaou, crossing the Bhote Koshi River and pursuing the Langtang Khola in the first section.

From here, the trail simultaneously ascents up to Bamboo (1,960 m), passing by the dense woods, which keep on till you reach Rimche at an altitude of 2,400 m to the side of the Langtang Khola.

If you prefer, you can stop here for a lunch break and continue the trail till you arrive at the Lama Hotel after an incredible encounter with exclusive red pandas, gray monkeys (langur), and black Himalayan bears on your lucky day.

  • AccommodationLocal Tea House
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude2,300 m

After spending a night at the Lama Hotel, you will clamber through the trail, whose forest is covered with rhododendrons and ground with lush moss. Trees are ferned and possess epiphytic orchids, as in a typical semi-tropical jungle.

As you keep on ascending gently, you will be infrequently glanced at by Langtang Lirung in between the trees. Then, the trekking trail of Langtang Valley Gosaikunda emerges from Ghora Tablea (3,000m), a Nepalese Army post without any permanent residents, which used to be Tibtean resettlement.

From Ghora Tabela, the valley starts to widen out, with a few summer settlements of sheep and yak herders and a monastery to visit shortly before making your way to the headquarters of the Langtang National Park, Langtang Village.

The houses in the Langtang and nearby are Tibetan-styled flat-roofed surrounded by stone walls, closing the fields of traditional crops such as potatoes, buckwheat, wheat, turnips, and barley that you will get to endeavor in your overnight stay.

  • AccommodationLocal Lodge House
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude3,200 m

The trail today, back-to-back, climbs through a tiny village and yak pastures, opening out further for a surreal view of the peaks.

After overpassing numerous small river streams and moraines, the trail leads to the last settlement of the valley, Kyanjin, with an ancient monastery and government-operated cheese factory.

If you make it to Kyanjin by lunchtime, it grants you some more time to acclimate and explore the area with its dramatic landscapes and dynamic snow-clad mountain sights of Langtang Lirung, Ganjala Peak, Tserko-Ri, and others.

  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude3,860 m

Kyanjin Gompa is the last existing permanent resident with a religiously treasured mini Gompa and cheese factory that you will use as a base for a day trek to venture into the upper valley and climb the Tsergo Ri at an altitude of 5,033 m.

The upper valley of Kyanjin provides spectacular vistas of the snow-capped, fluted Langtang Lirung and the Tibetan Dorje Lakpa, while the Tsrego Ri at the top augments the entire scenery of the Langtang Valley.

  • AccommodationLocal Tea House
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude5,033 m

Exploring Kyanjin is a treasure hunt, as there are plenty of things to meet your expectations, including the magnificent glaciers, a 360-degree complete view of the Langtang ranges, the Kengma Himal ranges, including Genjempol, the cheese factory, the Buddhist monastery, and the magical viewpoint, Tsergo Ri.

So, on the seventh day of the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Trek, you will visit all the natural and cultural beauty of the region and begin to return the track to the Lama Hotel for a night stay.

  • AccommodationLama Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude3,860 m

The trail from Lama Hotel to Thulo Syabru purses the descending trekking trail through Rimche and Bamboo Lodge that extends further to Paira Lodge and the vibrant woods heading up to the Langtang Khola.

After crossing the suspension bridge over there, you will reach Thulo Village or Syabru at 2,260 m above sea level to spend the night.

  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude2,560 m

The trek today is uphill through schools and gompas before Durasagang (2,660 m), which eventually gets you to a ridge at the top of Foprang Danda (3,190 m).

Then, the trail further forths up past the Government of Agriculture office to the Buddhist monastery called Sing Gompa at an elevation of 3,330m that you will revolve around for a calming spiritual cleansing when permitted by time, along with the yak cheese factory.

  • AccommodationLocal Tea House
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude3,250 m

The 10-day trek commences by proceeding through the stupa of Sakyamuni and moving along the path that provides an admirable view of the rhythmic water in Saraswatu Kunda and through Bhairab Kunda that ascends uphill to Gosaikunda (4,460m) to stay overnight at the guest house.

  • AccommodationComfortable Guest House
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude4,380 m

The return trek from Langtang Valley Gosaikunda begins this day as you hike down from the holy Gosaikunda Lake to Sing Gompa (3,250m) or Chandan Bari (3,250 m) at around four and a half hours.

The trail descends from all the way to Sing Gompa by the Lauri Binyak, with striking views of the peaks soaring above all. Stay amidst them in the local guest house.

  • AccommodationLocal Lodging House
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude4,380 m

Today, you will trek for around six hours from Sing Gompa to reach the ending point of the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Trek, Dhunche, by gradually descending through the silver fir, oak, rhododendron, and marijuana forests.

After that, you will cross the bridge over the stream of Sing Gompa, from where the trail scratches flat, to reach Dhunche.

Dunche is the district headquarters of Rasuwa, where you will spend a night at the lodge.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude3,250 m

It is your second last day of the trek when you will ride a private jeep to get back to Kathmandu from Dhunche after the morning breakfast, immersing yourself in the wonderful and scenic drive.

In about five hours, you will reach the capital city of Nepal and will be directly transferred to your hotel to enjoy the victorious Nepali cuisine in the evening.

  • AccommodationThree star Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast-Farewell dinner
  • Max. Altitude2,030 m

It is your final day in the beautiful country of hills and mountains, Nepal, when you will peek last time at the Himalayan gods and goddesses, then head to your home country on a scheduled flight.

We will transport you to the airport in our private vehicle.

Thank you for trekking with Adventure Himalayan Travels and Trek! We hope you enjoy your trek with us and look forward to seeing you again!

  • MealsBreakfast

This itinerary is not suited for you? Plan your own trip.

Route Map
Langtang Valley and Gosaikunda Lake Trek - 14 Days Map
What's Included
Includes
  • 11 nights and 12 days of food and accommodation during the trek in a comfortable local lodge
  • Transportation from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi, and from Dhunche to Kathmandu by Local Bus 
  • English-speaking local expert guide, porters(poter carry maximum 20 k.g and one porter between two people)
  • Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) fees
  • Langtang National Park entry fee
  • Two nights accommodation  three star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast
  • Airport transfers and escort
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
  • Equipment such as sleeping bag, first aid kit, oximeter, & clothing for porter & staff
  • Insurance for all staff & porters
  • Trekking achievement certificate
  • Adventure Himalayan Tshirt
Excludes
  • Nepal visa: multiple entry for 30 days, USD 50 (details on the visa page)
  • International flights and all domestic airfare
  • Insurance for clients with helicopter evacuation
  • Lunch and dinner during the hotel stay in Kathmandu
  • Hot showers, electronic charging fees, and alcoholic drinks at guest houses during the trek
  • Extra accommodation and meals outside of the itinerary
  • Personal gear and clothing (available for hire)
  • Tips, any expenses incurred in an emergency evacuation or road block due to any reason, snacks while walking, etc. 
Dates and Prices
Date PriceAvailability 
Start DateStarts: MondayOct 14, 2024End DateEnds: SundayOct 27, 2024PricePriceUS$975StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: ThursdayOct 17, 2024End DateEnds: WednesdayOct 30, 2024PricePriceUS$975StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: MondayOct 21, 2024End DateEnds: SundayNov 03, 2024PricePriceUS$975StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: ThursdayOct 24, 2024End DateEnds: WednesdayNov 06, 2024PricePriceUS$975StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: MondayOct 28, 2024End DateEnds: SundayNov 10, 2024PricePriceUS$975StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: ThursdayOct 31, 2024End DateEnds: WednesdayNov 13, 2024PricePriceUS$975StatusStatusAvailable
Useful Info

Best time trekking time in the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda

The best times to trek the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is dry with extraordinary visibility which makes for sound and enjoyable trekking conditions. The weather on the trails during these seasons is most reliable with clear skies and stunning landscapes and mountain peaks.

Yet it is good to know that trekking the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda is possible even in the winter and monsoon although the summer (June to August) brings the most frequented rain showers making the route slippery and at risk of landslides and avalanches.

Winter (December to February) at the higher elevation can be freezing and extremely cold at night due to snowfalls and can cause the closure of the trail. Therefore, spring and autumn are the most recommended seasons to trek in any region of Nepal for the best overall experience.

Permits required to trek the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda

To trek in the Langtang region, one must obtain different permits regulated in Nepal to receive access to the protected land of the country. The Langtang Valley also falls under the Langtang National Park, and you’ll need two permits to trek here, which are:

Langtang National Park Permit: The Langtang National encompasses twenty-six villages covering an area of 1,710 square kilometers and is responsible for the conservation of the region, including the Langtang Valley and Gosaikunda Lake. Therefore, you will need to get the Langtang National Park entry permit to trek, which provides direct help to fund the infrastructure maintenance of the park.

TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card: The TIMS card is mandatory for all trekkers in Nepal, regardless of where you are trekking, including the Langtang Valley and Gosaikunda region. The main purpose of this card is to keep track of travelers and provide necessary aid in case of emergencies.

Since you will hop further to trek Gosaikunda as well, you might need to grab a special as well. So, it is crucial to verify the recent requirements, costs, and updates from authorities or trekking agencies in Nepal who can assist you in obtaining the essential permits side by side.

Foods and accommodations in the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Trek

Amid the 14-day Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Trek, you will find a wide range of accommodations and food options that might not be lavish yet comfortable, and stuffing that showcases unique architecture and remoteness that you desire to escape arduous urban life.

The tea houses and lodges generally have a conjoined dining room that usually comes with an organic heating system of biogas or wood in the upper Himalayas, where a hot shower refers to a bucket full of lukewarm water and jugs while charging and electricity might get very limited yet accessible at an extra cost. Carrying a supporting set of portable chargers and some spare batteries is a wise idea.

The foods served during the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Trekking are often typical Nepali and Tibetan dishes such as Dal Bhat Tarkari (lentil soup with a heap of rice and side green vegetables), momos (Nepali dumplings), Thukpa (noodles with vegetable and non-vegetarian soup), and chapati (flatbread) or fried rice.

Some tea houses along the way offer an international menu as well, which generally includes pasta, pancakes, and pizza that may not be available in the upper valleys. Nonetheless, it is always a good alternative to carry some of your favorite snacks and energy bars to supplement your meals, whose options might decrease as you ascend to the more rural areas at higher altitudes.

Guides and porters to trek the Gosainkunda Langtang Valley

Although solo trekking or trekking without a guide in the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda is still possible, hiring a guide or a porter boosts your overall journey. The local guides and porters can provide valuable insight, help with necessary logistics, navigate tricky sections, fill up the language barrier between you and the hosts, and ensure your overall safety on the trek.

Porters on the way are the real avengers of the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda trek, as they reduce the weight of your heavy backpack to a daypack only for you to carry. In their company, all you will be doing is enjoying the trek to the fullest without straining yourself.

The weight allowance of the porter is usually limited to 10–18 kg. Therefore, to ensure the fitting of your baggage to the designated weight limits, make sure to have an earlier discussion with your porter before the tip.

Client Reviews
  • Langtang Gosaikunda Trek 14 Nights 15 Days - 15 Days

    rating

    “Excellent trek, with amazing landscape. 
    The only point which I would change would be to keep an open schedule for the way up. Many people felt high altitude sickness symptoms, so it would be positive to break up the way up in more one-two days, to allow for proper acclimatisation. To have a fixed trek schedule is not the best to deal with altitude acclimatisation.
    Apart from this, everything was excellent.”

    Pedro Alexandrino
    Pedro AlexandrinoPortugal,Oct 03, 2018
  • Langtang Gosaikunda Trek 14 Nights 15 Days - 15 Days

    rating

    “Can't recommend enough. Corresponding with Rana before the trek over email was easy and he was very helpful and responsive dealing with our (many) questions. Our guide  Rohit was knowledgeable, friendly and extremely helpful and our Porter Malpa and Subash were also great company and very kind. Adventure Himalayan  arranged for all of our accommodation ahead of time, reviewed our blood oxygen levels every morning and evening ahead of time and also suggested side treks we could go on along the way. Thank you , Rana and Adventure Himalayan team”.

    piter
    piterFrance,May 17, 2018

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