Langtang Gosaikunda Trek

Langtang Gosaikunda Trek Highlights

• Trek to the sacred Gosaikunda Lake and the 108 lakes nearby
• Experience the diverse Tibetan influenced culture of the Tamang people
• Explore the ancient monasteries including Kyanjin Gompa, Shin Gompa and more
• Pass through parts of the Langtang National Park 
• Witness stunning views of Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Manaslu and more

The Langtang Gosaikunda Trek explores both the untouched valley of Langtang and the pristine glacial lake of Gosaikunda through a carefully designed 15 day itinerary. As the trail is located only around 140km north of Kathmandu, it is one of the most accessible treks from the capital. The trek leads you through picturesque villages, lush forests, tranquil valleys and scenic trails and climbs all the way to the holy Gosainkunda (4460m). Gosaikunda is believed to be a holy lake and attracts thousands of pilgrims every year, especially during the auspicious full moons of May and August.

Another reason why the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek is so popular is the trail itself. The trail passes through numerous Tamang villages, which opens up the opportunity to closely experience the unique culture of the region. You will also witness views of Ganesh Himal, Gaurishankar, Langtang and Manaslu among various other peaks during the trek.

The trek begins with a drive from Kathmandu to the trailhead at Syabrubesi. You will hike via Lama Hotel and Langtang Village up to Kyanjin Gompa. After a day of exploration there, you will retrace your steps to Syabrubesi. During this first part of the trek, you will pass through parts of the Langtang National Park. This conservation area is home to thousands of species of plants and hundreds of rare animals including red pandas, clouded/snow leopards, assamese monkeys, musk deer, Himalayan monal, crimson pheasant, vultures and spotted eagles among many others. For the second part of the trek, you will hike up to Gosaikunda via Shin Gompa. Spend the afternoon at Gosaikunda and enjoy the scenery there before heading back to Dhunche over the next couple of days. The trek finally ends with a drive back to the capital. 

Langtang Gosaikunda Difficulty

The Langtang Gosaikunda Trek is best described as a moderately strenuous trek. While the trail is located at fairly high altitudes, they aren’t actually that hard to trek on. Thus, this suitable for newcomers and veterans alike. Some other factors you need to consider for the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek are:

Elevation:

The Langtang Gosaikunda Trek takes you up to altitudes of almost 4500 meters. Along with this, most of the trail is located above 3000 meters. Thus, being comfortable with altitude trekking is necessary. Also remember to stay hydrated, ascend steadily and set aside some days for acclimatization to help combat altitude sickness.

Length:

The trek generally last two weeks or a little more depending on the route. You will trek for an average of 5-6 hours per day. 

Best Season for Langtang Gosaikunda Trek

The Langtang Gosaikunda Trek is open to visitors all year long. However, the best time to visit as with most other treks is during the spring (March – May) and autumn (September – November) seasons. These periods are perfect due to their stable weather, clear views and moderate temperature. The trek is also performable in winter, although the temperature may make it uncomfortable for some.