Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Helambu Trek- 16 Days

Good to Know
  • Duration 16 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Starts/Ends Kathmandu to Kathmandu
  • Group Size 1-10
  • Max. Altitude 4320 M.
  • Best Season March, April, May and September, October, November

Highlights

  • Venture into the Valley of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Kathmandu
  • Enjoy the miraculous drive to Syabrubesi
  • Discover the natural and cultural off-the-beaten-path in the third most popular trekking region, Langtang
  • Trek into the holy sanctum of Alpine Gosaikunda Lake 
  • Experience the incredible villages and traditions of the Sherpa and Tamang people in the Helambu region
  • Explore one of the ancient and religious significance of the Langtang Valley, Kyanjin Gompa
  • Be at the serenity of the Langtang and Ganesh Himal ranges including Dorje Lakpa 

The Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Helambu Trek incorporates one of the most beautiful trekking experiences in the north of Kathmandu that rounds around the three stunning distinctive districts: Langtang Valley, Gosaikunda, and Helambu, all under protection by the Langtang National Park. On this combined trek, you will walk through thick forests, scenic villages like Lama Hotel, Langtang Village, and Kyanjin Gompa, and numerous terraced farms in the first section of the trek. Later on, you will head to the sacredGosaikunda Lake, situated at an elevation of 4,380 m above sea level in the Langtang region.

The lake is considered to be the abode of the Hindu lord Shiva and is revered highly by both Hindus and Buddhists all over the world, mainly on the occasion of Janai Purnima, to manifest spiritual healing and cleanse human faults. Besides this, the lake is a prime example of the alpine turquoise lake, contrasting largely to the high barren lands from where you will move forth to Helambu, a scenic area in Nepal characterized by its rolling hills, scattered villages, and rich cultural heritage of the true Himalayan heroes: the Sherpa and Tamang, with the most popular milder lower lands for easier acclimatization after crossing the Laurebina La Pass with stunning surrounding vistas.

Our 16-day-long moderately strenuous trekking package, beginning from the exotic hill town of Syabrubesi, takes you to the pristine natural wonders of the Langtang region, Gosaikunda, and the Helambu region, precisely dominated by the Hyolmo and Sherpa communities, through vibrant rhododendron, conifers, montane grasslands, glaciers, moraines, and high passes. Hence, the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda trek, mingled with the exclusive hidden treasure of the region, Helambu, is a must-savor trekking experience in Nepal with Adventure Himalayan Travels and Treks Pvt. Ltd. for a surreal journey in the ultimate serenity of the Himalayas with the magical views of Langtang Lirung and Ganesh Himal, including the majestic Annapurna on top on a clear day.

Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Helambu Trek Highlights

The amalgamated Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu trek is an adventurous journey through the Langtang National Park in the Langtang region, offering a wide range of highlights and experiences that artistically blend with natural beauty, cultural encounters, and a great sense of achievement in the Himalayas of Nepal that leaves a life-long impression on the trekkers who set out for it.

Here are some of the top-notch highlights of the trek you ought to come across:

Impressive scenery in the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Helambu Trek

The stunning views of the Langtang region, diverse landscapes full of lush dense forests, terraced fields, incredible meadows, and picturesque villages are the major highlights that cannot be left unnoticed by trekkers in the combined trek of Langtang Valley, Gosaikunda, and Helambu.

Throughout the trekking trail, you will be accompanied by amazing scenery of the snow-capped mountain Langtang Lirung (7,227 m/23,711 ft), Ganesh Himal ranges over 7,000 m, Dorje Lakpa (6,966 m/22,854 ft), Langshisha Ri (6,427 m/21,086 ft), Gosaikunda Pass peaks, Yala Peaks (5,520 m/18,110 ft), Langtang Ri (6,205 m/20,361 ft), and other peaks and ridges.

Authentic Cultural Immersion in the Langtang Region

During the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Helambu Trekking, you will pass by several valleys of the ethnic communities such as Tamang, Sherpa, and Hyolmo in the Helambu region with their unique culture, customs, and architecture.

So, the whole Langtang region known for its unrivaled natural beauty dominated primarily by the indigenous people is a great cultural heritage to explore around and experience the warm hospitality of the natives of the Himalayas.

Why visit Kyangjin Gompa in the Langtang Valley?

Kyanjin Gompa, also known as Kyangjin Gompa, is an ancient Tibetan Buddhist monastery in the Langtang Valley of Nepal at an elevation of approximately 3,870 m (12,700 ft) above sea level.

It is a significant cultural and spiritual center in the Langtang region, revered by both local and international pilgrims, and is also an ideal spot for trekkers to acclimatize before ascending to higher altitudes with slower ascents.

Overall, Kyanjin Gompa is a substantial religious monument in the Langtang region, perfect for cultural immersion while interacting with the resident monks and residents and observing their everyday rituals and practices perched on a lofty hill. It must not be missed to pay a visit while you trek the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Helambu.

How far is Gosaikunda Lake from Kathmandu?

Gosaikunda is an alpine lake at an altitude of approximately 4,380 m (914,370 ft) in the Langtang trekking region. It is one of the main highlights of the Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu Trek, with the shimmering water surrounded by rocky terrain and panoramic mountain ranges. You will not be able to get over the enchanting sunrise and sunset over the peaks of the lake.

The distance covered during the trek from Kathmandu to Gosaikunda varies depending on several factors, such as the starting point, the explicit route you have chosen, and different modes of transportation. However, if you begin to trek from Dhunche after a drive of 6 to 8 hours covering approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles), it takes 2 to 3 days to reach Gosaikunda from the beginning point.

When you choose to trek from the common trekking starting point in the Langtang region, Sybrubesi, after a drive of 42 kilometers from Kathmandu, it can take 3 to 4 days to make it up to serene Gosaikunda Lake.

Best photography opportunity in the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Helambu Trek

The entire Langtang region is a photography paradise filled with dramatic Himalayan landscapes, cultural landmarks, and pristine Himalayan beauty to capture in your camera as a souvenir to take home, as the Langtang Valley, Gosaikunda, and the Helambu region are absolute elegance, followed by the Himalayan wildness with a broad variety of flora and fauna, high mountain passes, starry skies, backdrops of the soaring peaks, culture, and traditions.

Do not forget to carry appropriate photography equipment, including a few spare memory cards and batteries, as charging facilities in remote areas can be limited. Make sure to be respectful of local customs and seek necessary permission before photographing, as there are several protected areas where capturing pictures is prohibited.

Adventure and Solitude in the High Passes of the Langtang Helambu Gosaikunda Trekking

The Langtang Helambu Gosaikunda trek involves several high mountain passes, such as Laurebina (4,609 m) and Gosaikunda Pass (4,610 m). These are some of the highest vantage points of the overall trek, which offers vast panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayas.

When you descend to the Helambu region, you will discover a series of splendid terraced fields carved into the hillsides that showcase the hard-working nature of the local Sherpa and Tamang farmers, adding a peculiar charm to the landscapes.

Nothing can beat the adventurous experience of coming across these magnificent natural formations on less-traveled routes in the serenity of the Himalayas and its unspoiled beauty, playing hide and seek with encompassing peaks and hills far away from the everyday hustle and bustle of hazardous city life.

If you decide to trek in spring or autumn, you may get a chance to be an important part of the local festivals, cultural dances, and rituals rooted in mother nature in the Himalayan region of Nepal!

The tea houses and lodges on the way to Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu give you an opportunity to have a deeper connection with the local hosts, enjoy Nepali cuisines, and hear the tales of the Himalayas from the experienced trekkers, guides, and potters while you traverse through lush woods, farmed terraces, and stunning valleys from the Langtang with a backdrop of towering peaks in Gosaikunda amidst rugged terrain and snow-capped ranges.

The whole trek provides remote and serene alpine landscapes and creates a bridge for cultural exchange and responsible tourism, as by trekking in this region, you contribute directly to the economy of the locals to help sustain the communities and the natural environment they inhabit.

So, Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu is to trek in Nepal for an incredible cultural and natural trekking experience, which can also be a great help to find the real purpose of humanity and your own life.

Itinerary
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Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal, you will meet our representatives of Adventure Himalayan Travels. They will take you to your hotel in the evening over dinner, and you will be shortly notified about your day-to-day itinerary.

  • Accommodation3 star Hotel
  • Mealsnot available

It is a buffer day. You will get to choose whether you want to take a complete rest and prepare for the upcoming trek or take an amazing UNESCO World Heritage Sites tour in Kathmandu Valley.

In the valley, you will come across the major Hindu temple, Pashupatinath, treasured by Hindus and Buddhists all over the world, and Boudhanath and Swayambhunath as the main Buddhist shrines. It is believed that when you circumambulate around these pilgrimage sites in a clockwise direction, your wishes will be fulfilled, you will receive good luck, and in addition, you are likely to get liberated.

At the end of the afternoon, you are free to go visit Patan, with its exceptional fine arts exhibition, and meet your trekking guide. They will help you with your trekking equipment and packing.

  • AccommodationThree star Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast

Today is your third day in Nepal when you officially head to trek the Langtang, Gosaikunda, and Helambu after a drive for about 8 to 9 hours on a road that winds through a series of twists and turns covering a distance of 117km, ending in Syabrubesi. 

Here, you will get to lodge in the local tea houses hosted by the locals for the first night of the trek.

  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude1,550 m

Now the trekking trail departs from the main road and descends to meet the suspension that you will cross to make it up to the wooded area of Doman (1,680 m) with the soothing rhythm of lophopou, cuckoo, and other birds chirping. 

Further, you hike up to Paira Lodge at an elevation of 1,810 m through moraines and upwards to Bamboo Lodge (1,960m), which leads to Lama Hotel to stay for the night.

  • AccommodationLocal Tea House
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude2,380 m

Today, the trekking trail leaves the Lama Hotel and proceeds up the hill through verdant forests of oaks and maples, opening at Langtang Village (3,430 m) and offering a 180-degree view of the Lirung ranges.

The path further extends through blooming rhododendron and pine forests before reaching Gumanchok (2,800m) and Ghora Tabela (2,790 m), which eventually make it up to Lantang Village for the night stay after a short uphill climb.

  • AccommodationLocal Tea House
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude3,430 m

On this day, you will continue to follow the steep uphill path that passes through Sindhum and Yamphu at an altitude of 3,640 m and cross Laja Khola to reach a viewpoint with a gorgeous view of Kyamjin Gompa and the icefalls of Lirung and Kinshung.

 Later, you will descend to Kyanjin Gompa (3,870 m) to spend the night.

  • AccommodationKyanjin Gompa
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude3,870 m

Kyanjin Gompa is a historically and religiously notable last permanent village with a small gompa and cheese factory to roam around and get enlightened.

Hence, on this day, you will take a much-deserved rest and explore the upper valley or climb the hill north to Kyanjin called Tsergo Ri (5,033m) up from the valley as the base of this day hike.

The upper valley is surrounded by spectacular snow peaks, including the fluting Langtang Liring and Tibetan Dorje Lakpa, and plenty of others to discover and stay overnight in Kyanjin Gompa! 

  • AccommodationLocal Tea House in Kyanjin Gompa
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude3,870 m

There is a lot to delve into in Kyanjin Gompa, with 360-degree complete views of Langtang Lirung, Kenga Himal ranges, and Genjempol, including unraveled glaciers and yak pastures, in a short amount of time.

You will savor all this natural and cultural fascination that involves a short hike to the cheese factory, Buddhist monastery, and Tsergo Ri (5,033 m) to retrace Lama Hotel for a night stay. 

  • AccommodationLama Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude3,870 m

The trail of today’s purses follows the route down through Rimche and Bamboo Lodge, which expands further through Paira Lodge and lively forest, heading up to the Langtang Khola. 

After crossing the suspension over the main Langtang River, you will arrive at Thulo Villages at an elevation of 2,260m overnight.

  • AccommodationLocal Tea House
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch- Dinner
  • Max. Altitude2,380 m

The ninth-day journey begins uphill by the schools and gompas before Durasagang (2,660 m), which leads to a ridge at the top of Forpang Danda (3,190m). From here, the trail wraps up past the Government Agriculture Office to a Buddhist monastery situated at 3,330m, Sing Gompa. 

When the time permits, you can visit the Yak cheese factory around the Gompas, where organic cheese is manufactured to take home and taste as much as you like!

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

The 11th-day trek commences by proceeding through the stupa of Sakyamuni along the sparkling water of Saraswati Kunda and through Bhairab Kunda, at which point the path ascends uphill to serene Gosaikunda (4,460m). 

The scenic totality bewitches nature’s aspirants, and don’t you worry, you will get to take in all that the amalgamated holy lake has to offer by spending overnight at the guest house.

  • AccommodationGuest House
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude4,320 m

The trekking route this day moves forth a steep descent from the northern edge of Gosaikunda Lake and passes three adjacent small lakes that eventually lead to the Gosaikunda pass at 4,500 m. 

From here, the rugged path descends the slope of the National Park Post at Bhera Goth (4,240 m) and Phedi (3,740 m), then follows through dense bamboo forests till Dupichaur (3,630m) until Ghopte (3,440m) for the night in the local tea house.

  • AccommodationLocal Tea House
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude4,320 m

The trekking trail today is across the pine and juniper forest, ascending to a steep slope along rocky terrain for about 2 hours before getting to Tharepati, a rewarding natural marvel for an overnight stay in the tea house.

  • AccommodationTea House
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude3,780 m

On the fifteenth day of the trek, you will move together with the forested ridge that escalates through Thodang Betini (2,260m) and Chipling (2,170m) before a sharp downhill hike up to Pati Bhanjyang (1,860m), a multi-ethnic village. 

From here, the trail declines further to reach Chisapani at an altitude of 2,140 m, with a fantastic sunset over the fully snow-clad mountains. 

  • AccommodationLocal Lodge
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude3,780 m

You are almost at the end of your Langtang, Gosaikunda Helambu Trek, following the thickets of rhododendron and oak, crossing Borlang Bhanjyang (2,440 m), and elongating up to the Army Check Post, where your Shivpuri Entrance Permit is checked. 

Onwards, you will carry on hiking to Sundarijal, where you will board a private vehicle to get back to Kathmandu and have a celebratory Nepali dinner.

  • Accommodation3 star Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast- Farewell dinner

It is your final trek day in Kathmandu, Nepal, when you will bid farewell, appreciating your travel team: the guides and porter. 

Three hours earlier than your scheduled flight, our team member will transport you to the airport. 

Thank you for trekking with Adventure Himalayan Travels! We look forward to seeing you again!

  • MealsBreakfast

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

Route Map
Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Helambu Trek- 16 Days Map
What's Included
Includes
  • 12 nights and 13 days of food and accommodation during the trek in a tea house
  • Transportation from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi and from Sundarijal to Kathmandu
  • Skilled multilingual, fluent English-speaking local expert guides and porters (who can carry a maximum of 20 kg and one porter between two people)
  • Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) fees
  • Langtang National Park entry fee
  • Three nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu at bed and breakfast
  • Airport transfers and escorts
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
  • Necessary trekking equipment, such as a sleeping bag, first aid kit, oximeter, and clothing for porters and staff in need.
  • Insurance for all staff and porters
  • Trekking achievement certificate
  • Adventure Himalayan T-Shirt
Excludes
  • Nepal visa - Multiple Entry 30 days - USD 40 (Details in Visa Page)
  • International flights & all domestic airfare
  • Insurance for clients in case of an emergency helicopter evacuation and other medical needs. 
  • Lunch & dinner during hotel stay in Kathmandu
  • Hot Shower and electronic charging fees at guest houses during the trek
  • Alcoholic drinks, candies, etc.
  • Extra accommodation and meals outside of the itinerary
  • Personal gear & clothing (available on hire)
  • Tips, any expenses incurred in emergency evacuation/road block due to any reason, table drinks, snacks while walking. 
Dates and Prices
Date PriceAvailability 
Start DateStarts: ThursdayDec 12, 2024End DateEnds: FridayDec 27, 2024PricePriceUS$1075StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: MondayDec 16, 2024End DateEnds: TuesdayDec 31, 2024PricePriceUS$1075StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: ThursdayDec 19, 2024End DateEnds: FridayJan 03, 2025PricePriceUS$1075StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: MondayDec 23, 2024End DateEnds: TuesdayJan 07, 2025PricePriceUS$1075StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: ThursdayDec 26, 2024End DateEnds: FridayJan 10, 2025PricePriceUS$1075StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: MondayDec 30, 2024End DateEnds: TuesdayJan 14, 2025PricePriceUS$1075StatusStatusAvailable
Useful Info

When is the best time to trek Langtang Valley, Gosaikunda, and Helambu?

Primarily, the two seasons—spring and autumn—are the best times to trek for 16 days in Langtang Valley, Gosaikunda, and Helambu. Winter and autumn have their distinctive allure that comes with some challenges.

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect during each of the four seasons:

Autumn in the Langtang, Gosaikunda, and Helambu Trek

The best of the best seasons to visit for the Langtang, Gosaikunda, and Helambu Trek—16 days—is autumn, which is generally warm during the day with little rain showers and colder nights, allowing excellent visibility of the surrounding scenery blooming in different colors of rhododendron.

At this time, the Langtang Valleys observe several festivals, such as Dashain and the festival of light, Tihar, to participate and learn the local norms and values. The weather is stable, with clear skies, and it initiates comfortable hiking in a day, making it an ideal season to trek the Langtang Valley, Gosaikunda, and Helambu.

Trekking Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu in the Spring

The second-best trekking season in Nepal, with no less natural and cultural highlights in the Langtang region to trek the Langtang valley, Gosaikunda, and Helambu, is spring with dry and stable days, pleasant weather, and some occasional rainfall at lower elevations.

The woods come alive at this time with splashing colors of rhododendrons and other wildflowers in the lush greenery of the hills, with more active wildlife creating visually heavenly landscapes and terrains with new crops.

Is trekking Langtang, Gosaikunda, and Helambu possible in winter?

The winter is usually chilly in the Langtang region, with more thermometer drops as you begin to gain elevation during the Langtang, Gosaikunda, and Helambu treks. Frequent snow dumping in the upper Himalayan region is much anticipated, and hiking can get slightly tougher.

Although some trekkers prefer to skip this season for trekking, winter undoubtedly presents the most awe-inspiring mountain vistas in the serenity when geared properly to overcome the freezing atmosphere via a warm layering of clothes for a successful trek.

Trekking Langtang, Gosaikunda, and Helambu in the summer

The weather in the Langtang region in summer is usually heated up with frequent rainfall, making the trekking trail slippery, muddy, and more difficult than in other seasons. Many parts of the routes are prone to landslides and avalanches. So, it is relatively called the trekking off-season in Nepal.

However, when you are prepared for an extra minute of adventure with careful consideration of monsoon weather and guided thoroughly by an experienced licensed travel guide, trekking Langtang, Gosaikunda, and Helambu is one of the most memorable trekking experiences.

Overall, autumn and spring are the perfect time to visit Langtang, Gosaikunda, and Helambu when the ambiance is mild, stable, and blooming. While your choice of when to trek may vary depending on your personal preferences, every season of the Nepalese Himalayas has something unique to offer its aspirants when geared appropriately.

How difficult is the Langtang Valley, Gosaikunda, and Helambu Trek?

The difficulty level of the Langtang Valley, Gosaikunda, and Helambu Treks varies based on various factors, such as your fitness level, old trekking experience, routes, and the specific itinerary you have chosen within the region. In general, it is considered a moderately difficult trekking trail with a few challenging sections, particularly a high mountain pass.

So, it is crucial to be in good physical shape and have a strong determination, as there will be some points when the altitude gain increases significantly with inevitable altitude sickness.

Hence, proper acclimatization is necessary to mitigate this potential concern.

Permits to trek the Langtang Valley, Gosaikunda, and Helambu

Before embarking on the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda, and Helambu trek, you will need to obtain two permits to ensure legitimate and well-documented trekking in Nepal which also secures your safety and the conservation of the areas.

The permits on regulation while trekking in the Langtang Valley, Gosaikunda, and Helambu are the Langtang National Park and the Shivapuri National permits both of which are available at the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathamandu and different entry points at the Langtang region.

The entrance fee of the Langtang National Park is NPR 3,000 and that of the Shivapuri National Park is NPR 1,000 per person per entry.

Please note: The permit fees and regulations may change over time in Nepal. So, make sure you have up-to-date information that you can obtain from different trusted websites of the registered trekking company along with the essential permits.

Foods and Accommodations in the Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Helambu Trek

During your Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Helambu Trek, you will have good access to the network of local teahouse, lodges, and guest houses throughout the trekking trail which provides a range of options from basic to quite more convenient accommodations that comes with meals and a place to take rest for the day.

Anticipate the foods to be more basic and menu-limited yet nourishing and energizing as you begin to move to the upper Himalayas with typical Nepali Dal-Bhat Tarkari, varieties of eggs, potatoes, and noodles.

Is it mandatory to hire a guide or porter to trek the Langtang Valey, Gosaikunda, and Helambu?

According to the official statement on the compulsory hiring of a guide, yes, solo trekking has been banned since April 1st, 2023, and trekking enthusiasts must at least be accompanied by a licensed guide. It is the same for the Langtang, Gosaikunda, and Helambu treks as well.

Although, at last, it is a matter of personal preference as to whether to hire a guide or porter or not, being with them does enhance your trekking experience in Nepal. They manage every aspect of your trek, including burdensome permit processing, accommodation, route planning, interaction with locals, and food side-to-side easing your journey and making it the most memorable part of your life.

Hence, it is recommendable to hire a registered guide or porter for a more sorted-out Langtang, Gosaikunda, and Helambu trek for safe and sound travel participation.

Client Reviews
  • Langtang Valley Gosaikunda Helambu Trek

    rating

    Approx 16 day tour covering Langtang and Gosainkunda lake. Great trek and experience, highly reccomend Mr Rana and guide Purna.

    D
    Dave DAustralia,Oct 28, 2024
    TripAdvisor
  • Langtang Valley,Gosainkunda and Helambu Trek - 16 Days

    rating

    It was a very nice tour and very well organized. Even before I arrived there was very nice contact with the organizer Rana, who responded quickly to inquiries. And then I had a very good guide with Rudra Dhoj Weiba. He always motivated me, also with humor, because at a hight over 4000 meters it was very exhausting for me. And he was not only a guide, but also a "doctor" when I had a cold. :) I can highly recommend Adventure Himalayan Travels and the Guide Rubra Dhoj Waiba and last but not least: the price-performance ratio is also very good.

    K
    Katrin KorritterGermany,Mar 21, 2024
    TourRadar

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