Langtang Gosaikunda Trek

The Langtang Gosaikunda trek is a stunning and popular trekking destination in Nepal. The Langtang Gosaikunda trek takes you through lush forests, charming villages, and breathtaking mountains along the way. The highest point of the trek to Langtang Gosaikunda is 4,620 meters. Although this trek can be done separately, the combination is more thrilling and exciting. It is one of Nepal’s least-explored trekking trails and is untouched by modernization. The subtropical region of Langtang is considered a sacred site by Hindus.

The Langtang Gosaikunda trekking route is pretty challenging and adventurous. This trek includes hiking up long, steep slopes through deep forests, a clear sky, and orchid forests. You will also see beautiful glacier mountains and small Sherpa and Tamang villages. After you return home, you’ll vividly remember the local houses, temples, monasteries, and hiking trails. The Langtang Gosaikunda trek is one of those transformative journeys.

Highlights

• You can visit the sacred Gosaikunda Lake, which is a holy place for Hindus and Buddhists.
• Explore the ancient monastery, Kyanjin Gompa
• Enjoy stunning views of mountains, forests, and rivers.
• The options to climb Kyanjin Ri or Tsergo Ri
• Experience the local culture of the Tamang and Tibetan people
• Climbing to Gosaikunda La Pass at 4,610 meters
• Enjoy walking through Langtang National Park, home to diverse plants and animals.
• Spot wildlife like red panda, monkeys, and various birds.

Why Langtang Gosaikunda Trek?

Absolute beginner trek

If you’re new to trekking in Nepal and want an easy trek, the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek is perfect. It’s not too difficult, the route is short, and the altitudes are lower, which is great for beginners. Langtang Gosaikunda Trek is not just about the mountains; you’ll also experience authentic culture and peaceful surroundings. The trek includes shorter days of hiking, peaceful scenery, and stunning panoramic views, making it a must-do trek. You’ll also immerse yourself in local ethnicity, culture, traditions, and warm hospitality.

Combination of two best treks

Instead of trekking to each place separately, you can visit two beautiful destinations in one trip. The Langtang Valley Trek offers stunning mountain views and an exciting adventure at high altitudes. Meanwhile, the Gosaikunda Late Trek is known as a pilgrimage journey. Combining these two treks gives you the best trek: an adventurous high-altitude experience and a visit to a sacred pilgrimage site.

Full Langtang Mountain Range

If you enjoy seeing mountains up close, you’ll love the Langtang Gosaikunda trek. You’ll get amazing views of the peaks of the entire Langtang mountain range, including Langtang Lirung, which is really impressive. When you reach Ghoda Tabela, you’ll catch your first glimpse of Langtang Lirung. But the best view comes when you trek to Kyanjin Gompa and hike up to Tsergo Ri.

During the trek, you’ll also see stunning views of Gangchenpo, Yala Peak, Naya Kangri, Dorje Lakpa, Loenpo Gang, and Ganesh Himal. From Lauribinayak, especially on a clear morning, you might even spot Mt Manaslu and parts of the Annapurna ranges. The sunset colors on Gangchenpo and the sunrise over the entire Langtang range will make your trekking experience even more memorable.

Itinerary Outline

Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu (1,400m) to Syabrubesi (1,503m)
Day 02: Trek from Syabrubesi (1,503m) to Lama Hotel (2,470m)
Day 03: Trek from Lama Hotel (2,470m) to Langtang village (3,430m)
Day 04: Trek from Langtang village (3,430m) to Kyanjin Gompa (3,865m)
Day 05: Exploration Day at Kyanjin Gompa
Day 06: Trek from Kyanjin Zomba (3,865m) to Lama Hotel (2,470m)
Day 07:Trek from Lama Hotel (2,470m) to Thulo Syabru
Day 08: Trek from Thulo Syabru to Cholangpati (3,654m)
Day 09: Trek from Cholangpati (3,654m) to Gosaikunda Lake (4,380m)
Day 10: Trek from Gosaikunda Lake (4,380m) to Ghopte (3,530m) via Laurebina Pass (4,610m)
Day 11: Trek from Ghopte (3,530m) to Kutumsang (2,470m)
Day 12: Trek from Kutumsang (2,470m) to Chisopani (2,295m)
Day 13: Trek from Chisopani (2,295m) to Sundarijal (1,380m) and drive to Kathmandu (1,400m)

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01: Drive from Kathmandu (1,400m) to Syabrubesi (1,503m)

Following an early breakfast, we start on a scenic journey by bus from Kathmandu Valley to Syabrubesi, located northwest of Kathmandu. Along the journey, you may witness spectacular landscapes, including roaring rivers, terraced farms, and charming Nepali villages. The trail is smooth up to Trishuli Bazaar. The route then gets steeper as it ascends to Dhunche and descends back down Syabrubesi, a market town full of exciting sites, including riverside hot springs where you can relax.

Day 02: Trek from Syabrubesi (1,503m) to Lama Hotel (2,470m)

Our first day of the trekking begins at Syabrubesi. We cross the Bhote Koshi and go to the Langtang River, which flows through forest and terraced fields. We walk through the landslide region, climb up to Bamboo, and gradually ascend to Rimche, which is situated on the Langtang River’s bank. On the journey, you’ll pass through various rural communities and bamboo and birch forests, where you can see rare, local wildlife like red panda. We keep trekking up to the Lama Hotel village.

Day 03: Trek from Lama Hotel (2,470m) to Langtang village (3,430m)

We continue our hike beside the Langtang River, going up through lush forests. On the path, we will get views of snowy peaks inviting us ahead. The narrow river valley eventually spreads out to Ghoda Tabela. A Tibetan relocation project was formerly in operation here. We’ll stop at the army checkpoint at Ghoda Tabela to register our paperwork. Then, as we approach the Langtang Valley, we cross the river on the east bank. We go past the prayer wheels driven by flowing water and prayer flags to the picturesque Langtang village, which is home to the Tamang people.

Day 04: Trek from Langtang village (3,430m) to Kyanjin Gompa (3,865m)

We continue to ascent as we pass past little abandoned settlements and fields. The vast Langtang Valley provides expansive views of the majestic Himalayas. Our path passes via multiple streams and glacier moraine. We eventually arrive in Kyanjin Gompa, which was previously the biggest village on our trek and was named after the nearby ancient monastery. The Kyanjin Gompa is mainly abandoned after being severely damaged by the 2015 earthquake. After lunch, we ascend to Kyajo Ri Viewpoint (5,150m) for breathtaking views of multiple mountain ranges and Langtang Valley. However, this is an optional excursion.

Day 05: Exploration Day at Kyanjin Gompa

On this day, we will spend time in Kyanjin Gompa to acclimatize. The upper Langtang Valley provides breathtaking close-up views of the huge mountains and glaciers. We will tour numerous locations, including the Yak cheese factory and the Kyanjin Gompa Monastery. If you like, you may go to Langshisha Kharka and the Tserko Ri (5,450m) viewpoint, which offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks, including Langtang Lirung (7,227m), Langtang II (6,596m), and Yala peak (5,500m). We go back to Kyanjin Gompa for the evening.

Day 06: Trek from Kyanjin Zomba (3,865m) to Lama Hotel (2,470m)

From Kyanjin Gompa, we say farewell to the upper highlands and begin descending on a path that will take us out of the valley. We take the same route that led us to Kyanjin Gomba. On the journey, we will travel via Langtang Village before stopping for lunch at Ghoda Tabela, where we will register our exit at the army checkpoint. After a pleasant lunch, we descend through the deep forest of the river valley to the Lama Hotel.

Day 07:Trek from Lama Hotel (2,470m) to Thulo Syabru

Today, you will descend to the banks of Langtang Kola and pass a small waterfall. The journey will take us through a rhododendron and bamboo forest filled with wildlife, such as wild boar and monkeys. The trail also offers spectacular views of Ganesh Himal. We will cross a suspension bridge at the end of today’s hike to get to the bottom of Thulo Syabru village.

Day 08: Trek from Thulo Syabru to Cholangpati (3,654m)

We gradually ascend from Thulo Syabru and pass through the army checkpoint at Langtang National Park. After a half-hour hard hike, we arrive at Daragang. From here, the route becomes less steep as it crosses through the hemlock and oak forest. While going through the jungle, you could see a rare red panda. We will continue our journey via Dhimsa and Sing Gompa to Cholangpati, where we will spend the night.

Day 09: Trek from Cholangpati (3,654m) to Gosaikunda Lake (4,380m)

As you ascend, you will be greeted with the stunning Langtang Himal, the most renowned mountain in the Langtang Range. We begin trekking along a remote mountain route. As you ascend, you will see more mountains on the horizon, including the beautiful Langtang Himal, Ganesh Himal, and even the Annapurnas to the west. We arrive in Laure Binayak a few hours later and begin the upward hike to Gosaikunda.

We will arrive at a chorten after two hours of climbing. After an hour of hiking, you will enjoy views of stunning waterfalls and lakes – Saraswati Kunda and Bhairav Kunda, both formed by water from Gosaikunda. Hindus regard this spot as sacred since it is said to be Lord Shiva’s favorite location. Thousands of pilgrims go to Gosaikunda every autumn for a holy Hindu festival.

Day 10: Trek from Gosaikunda Lake (4,380m) to Ghopte (3,530m) via Laurebina Pass (4,610m)

Today, you’ll cross the Laurebina La High Pass to the stunning Helambu area. The journey from Gosikunda Lake to the lake begins with a descent from the lodges. Then, as we approach the Laurebina La Pass, our stroll along the northern bank becomes steeper, but not before passing through three or four small lakes.

The Laurebina La Pass is marked with a stone stupa and several prayer flags. This pass is the highest point on the Langtang Trek. We next descend down a vast valley to High Camp and continue down a steeper, rocky trail to Phedi. Right after Phedi, we descend to a footbridge across a brook. The trek from Phedi to Ghopte is difficult, with steep ascents.

Day 11: Trek from Ghopte (3,530m) to Kutumsang (2,470m)

We begin our trip through juniper, rhododendron, and pine trees in a remote, unpopulated region until arriving at Tharepati, a lovely highland location. The trail from Tharepati gently descends through the forest on the western side of the hill. After a bit, we’ll come across a wide meadow with shepherds’ cottages. Gangchempo and Dorje Lakpa peaks may be seen from this route. The descent then becomes steeper as it passes through a forest to Magin Goth. After a short hike, we will pass through Kuala Bhanjyang and descend to Kutumsang.

Day 12: Trek from Kutumsang (2,470m) to Chisopani (2,295m)

We’ll ascend from Kutumsang and then descend to Gul Bhanjung Village. Then, we ascend up to a dusty broad road at Thorong Danda and continue on a steep, rocky trail to Chipping Village. We then descend slowly till we reach Pati Bhanjyang, a settlement situated between Chipping and Chisopani. After trekking for half an hour, we arrive at Chisopani, which is noted for its stunning panoramic views of various mountains.

Day 13: Trek from Chisopani (2,295m) to Sundarijal (1,380m) and drive to Kathmandu (1,400m)

After a short trek from Chisopani, we arrive at the Shivapuri National Park checkpoint. From here, we follow a large road down the hill and then a paved route up the hill. After passing a few water reservoirs and enormous water pipelines, we arrive at Sundarijal. We bid farewell to the trails and take local transportation to Kathmandu.

Best Time For Langtang Gosaikunda Trek

Autumn (September-November)

Autumn is the most popular season for Langtang Gosaikunda Trek in Nepal. In autumn, the average maximum temperature at Langtang Gosaikunda ranges from 20 to 28 degrees Celsius. The average minimum temperature is between 6 to 10 degrees Celsius. Autumn is the perfect season for excursions here because of its mild temperatures and favorable weather conditions. You may enjoy pleasant, dry-weather hiking in the Langtang area. The trials are in excellent shape. They are no longer slippery and muddy.

During this season, you will also notice fewer mosquito and leech infestations. In this season, the pure blue sky provides stunning vistas of the high summits. Some well-known ones are Langatang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, Himalchuli, and Dorje Lakpa. You may also appreciate the breathtaking views of the valleys, mountains, and peaks surrounding you.

Spring (March-May)

Spring is the second most popular season for the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek. In spring, you can enjoy the local flora and fauna blooming in the Langtang National Park. The forest will be covered in pink, red, and yellow rhododendron flowers. You may also stroll in the park while smelling pine and maple.

The weather in the spring is also pretty consistent. You can enjoy hiking in chilly, warm, and dry weather—the maximum temperature ranges between 18 to 30 degrees Celsius. The average low temperature is around 6 to 18 degrees Celsius. Due to this weather, the area is pretty cool for hikes. You may also encounter an endangered red panda on the trek.

Trek Difficulty

Langtang Gosaikunda Trek is moderately difficult. The difficulty depends on the transport mode, the route you pick, or the weather in the trekking season. You don’t need prior experience for this trek, but good endurance and strong mental strength are musts. The difficulty varies according to your route, but the most typical route is moderate, with some steep uphills and downhills. It’s an excellent hike for beginners since it’s not very difficult. There are just a few areas, some challenging climbs, and roads to navigate on your Langtang Gosaikunda trek.

Much of your Langtang Gosaikunda trekking schedule consists of short treks with scene vistas. The majority of the path is forested. You will encounter leeches in the monsoon season. There are sometimes small pathways. The most common health concern you’ll face is altitude sickness. Experienced hikers forbid people from smelling flowers along the way. They claim the flowers can be harmful, and some locals claim that smelling flowers might trigger altitude sickness.

Read more: Langtang Valley Trek Permit

Langtang Gosaikunda Trek Preparations and Physical Fitness

Although the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek is ideal for beginners, it may still be difficult if you do not make the necessary preparations. Furthermore, you must be physically healthy to hike to Kyanjin Gompa, Gosaikunda Lake, and Dhunche. You should start preparing for two months ahead of the trek. Your trek preparations include purchasing appropriate trek gear, setting the trek expectations, studying the trip route, getting to know your trek guide, and making mental preparations.

Langtang Gosaiikunda Trek requires a high level of physical fitness. The steeper parts, tough terrain, and high-altitude surroundings put you to the test. So, with good physical fitness, you should be able to walk comfortably. Cardio workouts like jogging, cycling, and swimming are ideal for training for high-altitude hiking. Before starting your journey, you should complete a few 9 to 10-kilometer hikes.

Transportation for Langtang Gosaikunda Trek

When you arrive at Kathmandu airport, you’ll be taken to your hotel in a private vehicle. When you leave, you’ll also get a private vehicle to take you from your hotel to the airport. You’ll take a bus from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi before starting the trek. On the way back, you’ll take a bus from Sundarijal to Kathmandu, then a taxi to your hotel. The bus ride takes eight hours, but a private jeep takes six hours and is more comfortable. However, a private jeep is more expensive, so you must pay extra. If you want to take a private jeep instead of the bus, please let us know when you book the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek.

Travel Insurance

For safety, travel insurance is required for all trekkers on mountain treks and tours. Getting travel insurance, especially while traveling in mountain areas, gives you peace of mind and lets you enjoy your trip without worries. We strongly recommend getting comprehensive travel insurance that covers emergency helicopter rescue, medical evacuation expenses, personal injury, repatriation expenses, and any illness. Good travel insurance ensures you are fully covered if anything goes wrong and allows you to travel with us confidently.

Accommodation and Food

During the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek, you will stay in various basic and standard accommodations. The services vary according to the number of people and the location’s altitude. When you travel to a higher altitude, you’ll only find very basic accommodations. There are no hotels or other fancy accommodations on your trek, and the finest lodging you will find on this journey makes you feel quite basic since it is in a very rural area.

Lower altitude areas provide better accommodations than higher elevations. You will have nice twin-bedded lodgings, queen bedrooms, and attached bathrooms. There is usually extremely slow internet access and a modest food variety. Not all rooms have all the amenities; thus, you’ll have to pay more for more amenities. Lower altitude toilets are Western-style toilets, but as you climb, you are more likely to get squat toilets. Almost all of the teahouses feature hot water showers. You must pay additional fees, which are around $4 per person.

As you go to higher elevations, the amenities of accommodations decline, as does the variety of cuisine. The main quality food available is Nepali Dal Bhat and other local foods. Fewer places serve Western foods, but the prices will be higher. During peak seasons, you must reserve accommodations ahead of time for your Langtang Gosaikunda trekking.

Equipment lists

Clothing

• Moisture-wicking thermal tops and buttons
• Fleece jacket or Down jacket
• Waterproof and Windproof jacket and pants
• Trekking Pants
• Trekking Shirts
• Warm Hat
• Sun Hat
• Gloves
• Socks

Footwear

• Trekking Boots
• Camp Shoes

Accessories

• Backpack
• Duffel Bag
• Sleeping Bag
• Trekking Poles
• Water Bottles
• Headlamp
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Lip Balm
• First Aid Kit
• Quick-drying towel
• Snacks
• Toothbrush and Toothpaste
• Wet Wipes

Other Essentials

• Passport or Permits
• Cash
• Camera

Conclusion

The Langtang Gosakunda Trek is a beautiful journey through Nepal’s stunning landscapes. As you finish the trek, you’ll walk through lush forests, cross glacial rivers, and see majestic mountain views. The Langtang Gosakunda trek takes you to the serene Gosaikunda Lake, a sacred site for many people with crystal-clear waters. You’ll have experienced local culture and hospitality in the small villages along the way. Completing the trek is not just about reaching the end; it’s about the memories and experiences you gather.