Langtang Gosaikunda Trek - 16 Days Itinerary
- DestinationNepal
- Duration16 days
- Trip DifficultyEasy to Moderate
- ActivitiesTrekking and Hiking
- AccommodationHotel/Guesthouse
- MealsB.L.D
- Max. Elevation5050m.
- Group SizeMin. 1 Pax
- Best TimeMarch - May & Sept - Dec
Trip Overview
The Langtang Gosaikunda Trek is a remarkable journey that takes you through the charming Langtang Village, the Holy Gosaikunda Lake, and the picturesque Helambu Valley. This exclusive combination of treks provides a memorable Himalayan experience that allows you to explore the very best of the Langtang region.
Immerse yourself in the natural and cultural beauty of the Langtang region. Regardless of the impact valley of Langtang suffered during the 2015 earthquake, it quickly recovered and preserved its scenic charisma. As you traverse the trail, the awe-inspiring Himalayas and cascading waterfalls greet you, creating a striking backdrop for your journey. Keep your eyes open for the unspoiled flora and fauna that flourishes in the Langtang National Park, this adds to the allure of this trek.
Over the 16-day trip, you get ample opportunity to explore the charms of the Langtang Valley. Visit the sacred Kyangin Gompa and conquer a climb to Cherko Ri (5050m) or Kyanjin Ri (4400m). Get breathtaking views of Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, Kinshung, Changbu, and Ganja la. Capture these majestic views as lifelong memories.
Discover the sacred Gosaikunda Lake nestled in between the snow-capped peaks. This sacred site holds spiritual and religious value for Buddhist and Hindu pilgrims. This attracts devotees from all across the globe. In August, during the Janai Purnima (full moon) festival, the area becomes a major pilgrimage site. Join the vibrant atmosphere and spirituality with cultural enrichment during the period. Discover the ancient stories that surround this fascinating lake.
The exciting part of this trek awaits as you ascend to the thrilling Laurebina pass (4610m). From this point, it offers awestruck panoramic views of the towering Manaslu and Ganesh Himal. Don't miss the chance to catch a glimpse of the magnificent Langtang Lirung, a sight that leaves marks in your heart!
Nepal Langtang Gosaikunda Trek is an astonishing journey that combines histrionic landscapes, serene surroundings, and spiritual experiences. This adventure promises an unforgettable experience for all trekkers seeking to immerse themselves in the marvels of the Langtang region. Create cherishing memories as you trek through the Langtang Region.
Highlights of Gosaikunda and Langtang Trek
- Experience a silent and peaceful trek, perfect for those who want to escape the crowded trails like Everest and Annapurna.
- Discover the unspoiled flora and fauna of the Langtang National Park, The first Himalayan National Park.
- Discover the historic Kyanjin Gompa monastery, a spiritual and cultural highlight of the trek.
- Challenge yourself with a hike up to Tsergo Ri or Kyanjin Ri for panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
- Breathtaking panoramic views of snowy peaks like Yala Peak, Langtang Lirung, Dorje Lakpa, Changbu, and Kinsung.
- Explore the Swiss cheese factory of Kyanjin Gompa at an altitude of 3,830m.
- Visit the serene and sacred Gosaikunda Lake, a major pilgrimage site revered by Hindus and Buddhists.
- Pass through the rich Sherpa and Tamang villages and dive into their Himalayan lifestyle.
- Cross the exciting mountain pass, the highest point of the trek, Lauribina La pass (4610m).
- Get an insight into the captivating natural and cultural beauty of the Helambu region.
Route overview Langtang with Gosaikunda
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative from The Nepal Hiking Team will welcome you and guide you through the hotel procedure. The designated guide provides a short description of the following trek journey this day.
A scenic drive of 7-8 hours from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi along the Trisuli River starts your journey to the Langtang. From Syabrubensi, the leg journey begins with hiking to the picturesque Lama Hotel. The trail passes through dense forest along the Langtang Khola.
Then, continue your journey from Lama Hotel to Mundu, passing through the authentic teahouses of Gumanechok and Ghodatabela. The next day, you move towards Kyanjin Gompa (5050m), boldly standing on the lap of Langtang range. You stay one day in this village for the acclimatization and exploration of the popular Cherko Ri or Kyanjin Ri.
After that, you retrace back to Lama Hotel and then to Thulo Syabru while enjoying the scenic Landscape. The following day, the trail heads towards Sin Gompa and up to sacred Gosainkunda Lake. Then, the path forwards to Ghopte via Lauribinayak Pass (4,610m) (the highest part of the trail). Then, the path takes you through forests and across rivers to Melamchigaon and eventually to Tarkeghyang, where you experience Sherpa culture and traditional villages.
On the final days of the trek, you walk through the picturesque Helambu, passing through Sermathang. You eventually descend to Melamchi Pul Bazaar before leaving for Kathmandu with a final drive. The next day, you are driven to the airport for your departure, marking the end of the Langtang adventure.
Alternative Treks for Langtang Gosaikunda
Did this journey feel too long? It’s all right! Let’s take a look at the alternative treks.
The first option is the Langtang Valley Trek. It is a 10-day beautiful journey that excludes the visit to Gosaikunda Lake. The trek lets you explore the valley peacefully and in more depth.
Secondly, we have the Tamang Heritage Trek. It is a 14-day culturally rich trek that allows you to indulge in the cultures and traditions of the Tamangs. You can opt for this trek if you want to embark on a culturally focused trek.
Moreover, you can also look into the Helambu Trek. The 9-day journey will take you away from the tourist trail and will help you connect with nature in peace. It is a lesser-known route in the Langtang region that will give you an authentic cultural experience.
All of our trekking packages are excellent and offer different experiences. Regardless of whichever package you choose, we will make sure your visit to Nepal will be the best holiday of your life.
Short Itinerary
- Day 01:Arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport (KTM) Kathmandu
- Day 02:Drive from Kathmandu to Syabru Bensi (1462m), Distance: 130 km, Duration: 7-8 hours
- Day 03:Trek from Syabru Bensi to Lama Hotel (2500m), Distance: 11-12 km, Duration: 5 hours
- Day 04:Trek from Lama Hotel to Mundu (3543m), Distance: 7-8 km, Duration: 6 hours
- Day 05:Trek from Mundu to Kyanjin Gompa (3798m), Distance: 6-7 km, Duration: 3-4 hours
- Day 06:Acclimatization day, hike to Chorkari Ri (5050m) from Kyanjin Gompa
- Day 07:Trek from Kyanjin Gompa back to Lama Hotel, Distance: 14-15 km, Duration: 5-6 hours.
- Day 08:Trek from Lama Hotel to Thulo Syabru (2235m), Distance: 7-8 km, Duration: 5-6 hours
- Day 09:Trek from Thulo Syabru to Shin Gompa (3300m), Distance: 6-7 km, Duration: 3-5 hours
- Day 10:Trek from Shin Gompa to Gosaikunda (4300m), Distance: 7-8 km, Duration: 5-6 hours
- Day 11:Trek from Gosaikunda to Ghopte via Laurebinayak Yak Pass (4610m)
- Day 12:Trek from Ghopte to Melamchigaon (2560m), Distance: 7-8 km, Duration: 6-7 hours
- Day 13:Trek from Melamchigaon to Tarkeghyang (2590m), Distance: 6-7 km, Duration: 5-7 hours
- Day 14:Trek from Tarkeghyang to Sermathang (2610m), Distance: 5-6 km, Duration: 3-4 hours
- Day 15:Sermathang to Melamchi Pul Bazaar (2200m), followed by a 2-hour drive to Kathmandu.
- Day 16:Farewell and transfer to airport
Cost Includes
- Airport Pickup and drop off by private car.
- Two nights’ accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu
- Transfer from Kathmandu to Sybrubensi by bus and Melamchi to Kathmandu by private car.
- Three daily meals with tea/coffee (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
- Best available twin-sharing lodge for accommodation during the trek
- Snacks of seasonal fruits during the trek
- One highly experienced, helpful, and friendly guide. Porters (1 porter for 2 people) and their food, accommodation, salary, and equipment. Accident insurance for all staff
- Down jacket and sleeping bag use while trekking
- Duffle bag for trekking
- Nepal Hiking Team T-shirt, trekking map, and trip achievement certificate
- First aid medicine kit
- Langtang National Park Permit fee
- Government taxes & office service charge
Cost Excludes
- Meals not specified in the 'Meal Inclusions' in the above itinerary
- Personal Travel insurance
- International airfare
- Nepal entry visa. You can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. A multiple-entry tourist visa good for 30 days can be obtained by paying US $ 40 or the equivalent in foreign currency. Similarly, multiple-entry tourist visas for 90 days can be obtained by paying US $ 100. Please bring 2 passport-size photos.
- Soft drinks, including water
- Private Jeep from Kathmandu to Sybrubensi, which costs USD 150 extra.
- Snacks and other personal expenses
- Hot showers during the trek
- Personal trekking equipment
- Tips and gratuities for trekking staff and drivers
Detail Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport (KTM) Kathmandu
You will meet our office staff at the airport; he will be holding a placard of the "Nepal Hiking Team" so that you can recognize him. He will help you in transferring to the trip Hotel. At the Hotel, we will conduct a small meeting to explain to you about the trek. Afterward, there is no scheduled activity, so you may take a rest or stroll around the markets of Thamel.
Day 02: Kathmandu to Syabru Bensi
We will drive to Syabru Bensi by bus. The drive is about seven hours and is a scenic drive. You travel north of Kathmandu, past Dhunche, through scenic foothills and ridgeline vistas to Syabru Besi. When driving along the Trisuli River's bank, you can see Ganesh Himal, terraces, deep valleys, and green hills.
Day 03: Syabru Bensi to Lama Hotel
The first section of the trail today passes through Bhote Koshi and parallels the Langtang Khola. The route gradually ascends to Bamboo when going through the Landslide field. Following that, your trek ascends gently to Ramche (2400 meters) through Bamboo (1960 meters), located on the Langtang Khola bank.
Day 04: Lama Hotel to Mundu
The trek route follows Gumanechok, Ghoda Tabela, which translates to "Horse Stable." After that, our path heads to Mundu, which is a small settlement about 30 minutes from Langtang village.
Day 05: Mundu to Kyanjing Gompa
Day 06: Kyangjuma Gompa Exploration and climb Chorkari RI
It is an acclimatization day. So take a rest and explore the nearby areas. There are several attractions to visit in the village. You can excurse through the cheese factory or hike through the moraine trail to see spectacular icefalls and ascend at Chorkari Ri (5050 meters). Chorakari Ri is the trek's highest point and takes you directly behind the village for a picturesque view of the Langtang peak.
Day 07: Kyanjin Gompa- Lama Hotel
We descend to Lama Hotel and see amazing views of towering mountains on the way.
Day 08: Lama Hotel - Thulo Syabru
The first trail descends to the canal, then crosses it and ascends to Thulo Syabru. Breathtaking views of Langtang Himal and its surrounding peaks accompany you. You will walk across pine and juniper forests to Thulo Syabru, which is the final destination today.
Day 09: Thulo Syabru- Shin Gompa
You follow the wide path up to Dimsa village, then continue less steeply through rhododendron, hemlock, and oak woods to Shin Gumba. You can see picturesque views of Langtang Himal and Langtang valley on your way to your trek. Shin Gompa is another popular Cheese destination in this journey.
Day 10: Shin Gompa to Gosaikunda
The first segment of the trail appears, and we slowly ascend up to Laurebinayak, where the peak gives you an exotic feeling. All the way to Gosaikunda, there is a steep ascent. You trek along a rocky path with stunning views of the Ganesh Himal range, Manaslu range, Langtang Lirung, and Tibetan peaks. You will see the Annapurna range going up behind and to the north on a clear day. Langtang Lirung is also visible across the valley. You pass a few huts in Laurebinayak's high pasture, cross a narrow hill, and get your first glimpses of the holy lake of Gosaikunda.
The Gosainkunda Basin contains many reservoirs, the most notable of Saraswatikunda, Gosainkunda, and Bhairab Kunda. According to legend, Shiva created Gosainkunda by piercing a glacier with his trident to procure water to quench his thirst after consuming a toxin that threatened to kill the earth. Explore the lake from all sides. And if you are feeling edgy, do take a dive too for a refreshing memory of the trek.
Day 11: Gosaikunda to Ghopte via Laurebinayak Yak pass
The path starts in Gosaikunda and climbs through rugged terrain, past four small lakes, to the Laurebinayak La (4610 meters), the trek's highest point. Continue to stare back at the stunning views of Manaslu and the Ganesh Himal, as well as the now-familiar Langtang Lirung. You then make a steep descent to camp near Ghopte.
Day 12: Ghopte to Melamchigaon
You descend through the trees and ascend through a dry riverbed to enter a Kharka surrounded by rhododendron forest. Walking through dense woods, we make our way to Tharepati village. Climbing the ridge directly above the town provides a breathtaking view of the Jugal plain. We cross the village and a jungle before descending to the Melamchi River and ascending again.
Day 13: Malemchigaon to Tarkeghyang
On the day you reach Helambu Region, walk up to Tarkeghyang, where you can enjoy Sherpa culture with traditional villages and monasteries. The stone houses are close together, separated by narrow alleyways.
Day 14: Tarkeghyang to Sermathang
You can pass through a small forest with a lovely view of the Helambu region's settlement. The path winds through the big valley end between Parachin and the picturesque Sherpa village of Gangyul. The residents of this village follow Drukpa Kagyu Buddhism, which is also Bhutan's national religion.
Day 15: Shermathang- Melamchi - Pul Bazaar –Kathmandu
Short walk down to Melamchi Pul Bazaar with many Sherpa villages and catch transport to Katmandu. Congratulations on the completion of your trek.
Day 16: Farewell/Tour Ends
Nepal Hiking Team representative will drive you to the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight. Breakfast Included.
Trip Route Map
Langtang Gosaikunda Trek Route Map
Elevation Chart
Detailed Elevation and Duration Chart of the Langtang Gosaikunda Trek
Trip FAQS
Guide to Langtang Valley and Gosaikunda Trek
What is the highest point of this Trek?
The highest point of the Langtang with Gosainkunda Trek is the Laurebina La Pass (4,610m) if you do not climb Cherko Ri (5,050m). This pass is a significant Highlight of the trek that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and a sense of achievement in completing a pass. The ascent of this pass is an exciting adventure moment that adds an enriching experience.
What is the difficulty level of Langtang Gosainkunda Trekking?
The Langtang Gosainkunda Trek is considered an easy to moderate-level trek. This journey involves a mix of uphill and downhill, with slow and steep ascents. The most challenging part of the trek is the ascent to Cherko Ri and Laurebina La Pass, which requires good acclimatization and physical energy.
Near Gosainkunda after Lauribina, there is a steep and windy ascent. However, overall, the adventure is manageable and suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers. Yet, we suggest you be physically fit with basic training before the trek.
What types of accommodations will I be staying in during this trek journey?
During the Langtang Gosainkunda Trek, you stay mostly at simple family-run teahouses or lodges with basic facilities. Rooms are twin-sharing with attached Bathrooms except at Lama Hotel. In the Lama Hotel, the bathrooms are around the housing area but not attached. The accommodations are convenient and provide a great opportunity to interact with local people.
How can I manage drinking water on the path of Langtang and Gosainkunda?
You can find water from natural sources like spring water, taps, and rivers during this trek. However, we strongly suggest trekkers purify water with water purification tablets, filter bottles, and filtering tools to avoid waterborne diseases. You can also buy boiled water from the teahouses. It is important to stay hydrated in the trek while protecting the environment, so we suggest you use a reusable water bottle throughout the trek.
When should I join this Langtang Gosainkunda trek to witness the local festivals?
To witness local festivals during the Langtang Gosainkunda Trek, consider planning to join your trek around autumn. It is the festive and peak season for trekking in Langtang. During August, the Janai Purnima festival is a major highlight in Gosainkunda Lake. You can witness many Buddhist and Hindu pilgrims from around the world. This event provides a vibrant atmosphere with chants, songs, cultural performances, and large gatherings around the holy lake.
Trekking choice and Key Difference
Which should I choose, Langtang Valley Trek or Langtang with Gosainkunda Trek?
Both of these treks offer wonderful journeys in the Langtang region. Choosing between the two varies on your interest, preference, and time availability. Trekkers interested in classic adventure and have a limited period with less physical endurance, Langtang Valley Trek is perfect.
Meanwhile, if you have an extended time and are interested in experiencing a combination of culture immersion, adventure, and spirituality, Langtang with Gosainkunda trek contributes you the perfect opportunity. This extended version of the trek adds a visit to the Holy Gosainkunda Lake and also offers a sense of achievement with the completion of the Laurebina La pass 4,610m).
What does Gosainkunda offer while combined with the Langtang Valley Trek?
Sacred Gosainkunda Lake adds a layer of spiritual and cultural enriching experience with thrilling adventure in Langtang Valley. While the village of Langtang is known for its strong ambiance, this region showcases vibrant Tamang culture and diverse flora and fauna. With Gosainkunda, the journey leads to a profound exploration of the Buddhist and Hindu religious values.
The tranquility of Lake, surrounded by snowcapped peaks, offers a perfect opportunity to add an awe-inspiring memory. This path passes through other lakes like Saraswatikunda and Bhairavkunda that are worth mentioning. Adding Gosainkunda to the Langtang Valley trek connects the region's spirituality, cultural richness, and unforgettable stunning panoramas.
Are there any spots or viewpoints on the Langtang Gosainkunda trek for stunning views?
With our given Itinerary, you will come across plenty of spots or viewpoints on this trek. However, some of the best places for stunning views are:
Cherko Ri (5050m): This viewpoint is often overlooked by the trekkers due to its more demanding climb. It provides one of the most mighty mountain views of Langtang, including Shishapangma (8,027m) on a clear day.
Kyanjin Ri (4,400m): With this point, get magnificent panoramic views of the Langtang Lirung, Langtang glacier, Kinsung, Changbu and other snow-capped mountains.
Laurebina (3,910m): This is a high ridge climb before Gosainkunda. With a clear sky, you will have stunning mountain views of the Annapurna and Manaslu Range. The trail leading to the Laurebina is covered with the Rhododendron trees that bloom during the spring, enhancing the view.
Lauribina La pass (4,610m): This is the highest point of the trek if you decide not to climb Cherko Ri. Lauribina pass is the only pass you come through during the whole trek. With this point, you get an amazing view of the Gosainkunda Lake, blending with its surrounding mountain peaks.
Myth and Facts of Langtang Gosaikunda
Which river starts from Gosaikunda?
Gosaikunda Lake is the source of the Trishuli River. The Trishuli River originates from the waters of Gosaikunda and the nearby Naukunda wetlands. This river is an important waterway in Nepal, flowing through various regions and contributing to the Gandaki River system. The pristine and sacred Gosaikunda Lake plays a crucial role in feeding this river, which is vital for the local ecosystems and communities.
What is the myth behind Gosaikunda Lake?
Gosaikunda Lake is steeped in legend. It's believed that the lake was created by Lord Shiva. He used his trident to dig into a mountain and bring out water to soothe his throat after drinking poison. Near the lake, there is a large rock that many people consider a sacred shrine of Shiva. The lake is considered sacred for both Buddhist and Hindu pilgrims.
Cost and Date
Start Dates refer to your arrival date in Nepal. End Dates correspond to your return date from Nepal.
The Langtang Gosaikunda Trek - 16 Days Itinerary set departure dates are tailored for the group joining option. If the 16 days Langtang Gosaikunda Trek - 16 Days Itinerary departure dates don’t fit your schedule, we can include alternative dates that better suit your needs.
Travellers‘ Reviews
Read our genuine feedback from past travelers with Nepal Hiking Team sourced from TripAdvisor, Google, Facebook, and Trustpilot.
Spectacular Langtang Trek
We had a fantastic trek up the Langtang Valley organised by Nepal Hiking Team. Ganga worked with our tight time frames and came up with a great itinerary.
The trek itself is challenging, and the altitude is not to be taken lightly, but with the dedicated work of our guides Asha and Porter Bikash, we made it up to Kanjin Ri, and the views were spectacular.
January is a great time to visit Langtang. Clear blue skies and cooler weather make for comfortable trekking and quiet trails, though it does get cold higher up overnight. However, the jacket and sleeping bag provided are of high quality.
I highly recommend Nepal Hiking Team and visiting Langtang in January.